Reception management system, reception device and its program

Abstract

To allow the number of manned reception devices and the number of self-service reception devices to be switched as desired within a limited number of devices.SOLUTION: A reception device acquires information on operation modes in either a manned mode in which an employee enters first data and second data pertaining to a reception function at entry, which accepts the entry of the first data required when a user enters a facility, and a reception function at exit, which accepts the entry of the second data required when the user exits the facility, or a self-mode in which the user enters the first data and the second data. When the information acquired from the server is the manned mode information, the reception device accepts the input of the first data or the second data with a screen of a display device as the screen of the manned mode. When the information acquired from the server is the self-mode information, the reception device accepts the input of the first data or the second data with the screen of the display device as the screen of the self-mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a reception management system, a reception device of the system, and a program for causing a computer to function as the reception device. [Background technology]

[0002] There is a data processing device that has an entry reception function that accepts input of data required when a user enters a facility, and an exit reception function that accepts input of data required when a user leaves the facility. This type of data processing device is installed at the reception desk of leisure facilities such as karaoke booths, darts bars, and manga cafes, or sports facilities such as sports gyms, golf courses, and bowling alleys. For this reason, this type of data processing device is generally referred to as a reception device.

[0003] There are two types of reception devices: manned reception devices operated by facility employees, and self-service reception devices operated by facility users. When a manned reception device is used, the employee operates it, so there are fewer data input errors and operation delays rarely occur. This has the advantage of being able to handle users efficiently. However, since an employee must always be present at the reception desk, securing employees becomes an issue. On the other hand, when a self-service reception device is used, reception employees are not required. However, because the user operates it, data input errors are more likely to occur and operation is often time-consuming. This has the disadvantage of being unable to handle users efficiently.

[0004] From this perspective, there is a demand for, for example, installing more manned reception devices at the reception desk on days or during times when there are many customers to efficiently handle customers, and conversely, installing more self-service reception devices at the reception desk on days or during times when there are fewer customers to reduce the burden on employees. To meet this demand, currently, there is no choice but to provide the necessary number of manned and self-service reception devices at the reception desk, and determine the number of reception devices available for use depending on the day of the week or time of day. This requires high equipment costs. Furthermore, there are issues such as the waste of unused reception devices and the need to secure a large installation space for the reception devices. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-219819 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The problem that the embodiments of the present invention aim to solve is to provide a reception device and reception management system that can easily realize a reception system that can arbitrarily switch between the number of manned reception devices and the number of self-service reception devices within a limited number of devices. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment, the reception device includes a mode acquisition means, a storage means, an attended control means, and a self-control means. The mode acquisition means acquires, from a server, information on an operation mode, either an attended mode in which an employee inputs first data and second data related to an entry reception function that accepts input of first data required when a user enters a facility and an exit reception function that accepts input of second data required when a user leaves the facility, or a self-control mode in which a user inputs the first data and second data. The storage means stores the information on the operation mode acquired by the mode acquisition means. If the information stored in the storage means is information on the attended mode, the attended control means changes the screen of the display device to the attended mode screen and accepts input of the first data or the second data. If the information stored in the storage means is information on the self-control mode, the self-control means changes the screen of the display device to the self-control mode and accepts input of the first data or the second data. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of a reception management system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an embodiment of the reception system. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the reception terminal. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the main application software installed in the reception terminal. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing main memory areas formed in the main memory of the receiving terminal. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the reception server. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the receiving terminal table. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of data items stored in a box-specific file. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the store master table. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 shows an example of the reception terminal setting screen. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 shows an example of the master editing screen. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor of the reception terminal. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor of the reception terminal. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor of the reception terminal. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor of the reception terminal. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor of the reception terminal. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor of the receiving server. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 shows an example of the sign-on screen. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 shows an example of the top screen display in the manned mode. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 shows an example of the entry / exit processing screen in the manned mode. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 shows an example of a display on the operation menu screen. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 shows an example of a display on the top screen in the entry / exit self-service mode. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 shows an example of a display on the top screen in the self-entry mode. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 shows an example of a top screen display in the exit self-timer mode. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 shows an example of the number of users input screen. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 shows an example of a display on the slip reading screen. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation procedure relating to the attended mode and transition of screens displayed on the reception terminal. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation procedure relating to the self mode and transition of screens displayed on the reception terminal. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a sequence diagram showing the procedure for a transaction in the reception system. [Figure 30] FIG. 30 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the store-specific master table in the second embodiment. [Figure 31] FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by the processor of the receiving server in the second embodiment. [Figure 32] FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by the processor of the receiving server in the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Below, we will use drawings to explain an embodiment of a reception device and reception management system that can easily realize a reception system that can arbitrarily switch between the number of manned reception devices and the number of self-service reception devices within a limited number of devices. In this embodiment, a karaoke booth establishment is used as an example of a store to which the reception device is applied. A karaoke booth establishment is a store equipped with one or more facilities for enjoying karaoke, known as karaoke booths. Each karaoke booth is assigned a unique booth number. The booth number is a series of numbers assigned to identify each karaoke booth. The booth number can also be referred to as a room number. Generally, in karaoke booth establishments, before a customer enters a karaoke booth, the customer inputs data required for entry, such as the booth number, number of users, start time, and planned usage time, into the reception device at the reception desk. When the customer leaves the karaoke booth, the customer inputs data required for exit, such as the booth number and end time, into the reception device. This allows the reception device to calculate a karaoke booth usage fee, known as a facility usage fee, for each customer based on the usage time, number of users, etc. If the customer eats or drinks in the karaoke booth, the cost of the food and drink is added to the facility usage fee. The facility usage fee is displayed on the display device of the reception device, and the customer pays the facility usage fee. Data related to this payment is also input into the reception device. This embodiment exemplifies a reception device suitable for installation at the reception desk of such a karaoke box store, and also exemplifies a reception management system including reception devices of multiple karaoke box stores in a chain, for example, and a reception management server that manages the reception devices of each store.

[0010] [Description of reception management system] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of a reception management system 1000 according to this embodiment. The reception management system 1000 includes a reception system 100 that is installed in each of, for example, a chain of karaoke box stores, a reception management server 200 that is controlled by a headquarters that oversees each of the karaoke box stores, and a communication network 300. The communication network 300 is a wide area network that controls data communication between the reception server 1 (see Fig. 2) of each reception system 100 and the reception management server 200. For example, the communication network 300 could be the Internet, an intranet, a mobile communication network, etc.

[0011] The reception management server 200 is a computer system for providing various services related to the management of the reception terminals 2 (see FIG. 2) of each reception system 100. The reception management server 200 provides services in a cloud computing environment. The reception management server 200 may also provide services in an on-premise environment. The reception management server 200 may not be made up of a single server, but may be made up of multiple servers.

[0012] The reception management server 200 includes a store-specific master table 400. Details of the store-specific master table 400 will be explained later, but the store-specific master table 400 is used to store information about the operation mode set in the reception terminal 2 of each reception system 100. The information about the operation mode stored in the store-specific master table 400 is updated as needed, for example, by a maintenance PC (personal computer) located at the headquarters.

[0013] [Description of the reception system] 2 is a schematic diagram showing one embodiment of a reception system 100 established in one karaoke booth. The reception system 100 includes a reception server 1, a plurality of reception terminals 2, a plurality of ordering terminals 3, and a kitchen terminal 4. The reception system 100 connects the reception server 1 with each of the reception terminals 2, each of the ordering terminals 3, and the kitchen terminal 4 via a communication network 5. The communication network 5 is typically a LAN (Local Area Network). The LAN may be a wired LAN or a wireless LAN.

[0014] The reception server 1 is a computer system for providing various services related to reception work. The reception server 1 provides services in an on-premise environment. The reception server 1 may also provide services in a cloud computing environment. In order to provide various services related to reception work, the reception server 1 manages databases such as a box database 6, an employee database 7, a member database 8, and a product database 9. The reception server 1 may not be composed of a single server, but may be composed of multiple servers.

[0015] The box database 6 is a database that stores data related to the karaoke boxes provided in karaoke box establishments. For example, the box database 6 stores data such as the number of people allowed, the basic fee, and extension fees for each box number, which is identification information assigned to each karaoke box.

[0016] The employee database 7 is a database that stores data related to employees working at karaoke booth establishments. For example, the employee database 7 stores data such as names and passwords for each employee code, which is identification information assigned to each employee. Passwords are confidential information used for identity authentication.

[0017] Member database 8 is a database that stores data about users who have registered as members of a karaoke booth establishment, i.e., members. For example, member database 8 stores data such as name, age, membership registration date, membership validity period, and service points for each member, along with a membership code, which is identification information assigned to each member. Users who become members are issued a membership card on which their membership code is recorded. Alternatively, dedicated application software installed on the user's smartphone or other device displays the membership code on the smartphone's display device in the form of a machine-readable code, such as a barcode or two-dimensional code. Furthermore, when a member makes a reservation for a karaoke booth in advance, member database 8 also stores the reservation information for each member.

[0018] The product database 9 is a database that stores data on products offered to karaoke booth users. For example, the product database 9 stores data on products, such as product names and prices, for each product code, which is identification information assigned to each product. Products include food, beverages, cooking supplies, cigarettes, etc. Rental items, such as lighting equipment, musical instruments, and audio equipment, are also included in the product category. Furthermore, karaoke booths offer course menus, such as two hours of use with all-you-can-drink alcoholic beverages, or two hours of use with all-you-can-drink drinks from the drink bar. Such karaoke course menus are also included in the products stored in the product database 9.

[0019] The reception terminal 2 is a data processing device installed at the reception desk of a karaoke booth. The reception desk is a place where customers stop by before entering a karaoke booth or after leaving a karaoke booth. The reception desk is also called the front desk. The reception desk is usually located near the entrance / exit of a karaoke booth, and has a counter table for serving customers. In this embodiment, multiple reception terminals 2 are installed in one direction on this counter table.

[0020] There are no particular limitations on the installation method of the reception terminal 2. As will be described in detail later, the reception terminal 2 may be operated by either an employee or a user. Therefore, the reception terminal 2 may be installed in a manner that allows both an employee and a user to operate it. For example, even when the reception terminal 2 is installed on a counter table as in this embodiment, it is preferable to install the reception terminal 2 on a rotating platform that rotates horizontally, and rotate the rotating platform as appropriate so that the operation surface of the reception terminal 2 faces one side or the other of the counter table.

[0021] The reception terminal 2 has an entry reception function that accepts input of first data required when a user enters the facility, and an exit reception function that accepts input of second data required when a user leaves the facility. The first data is, for example, the booth number of the karaoke booth used by the user, the number of users, the start time of use, the scheduled use time, a course menu, an option menu, etc. The course menu is the menu of karaoke courses mentioned above. The option menu is a menu that users who do not select a course can select when entering the store, and includes, for example, a drink bar, a one-drink option, etc. The first data includes, for example, the number of people using the drink bar, the number of people using the one-drink option, and the type of drink. In other words, the first data may also include order data for a product menu.

[0022] The second data is, for example, the booth number of the karaoke booth used by the user, the time of completion of use, etc. It goes without saying that the items of the first data and the second data are not limited to those mentioned above. In short, the first data is data that needs to be entered when entering. The second data is data that needs to be entered when leaving. Such a reception terminal 2 can be called a reception device. Furthermore, the reception terminal 2 may have all or part of the functions of the reception server 1 to constitute a reception device. Details of the reception terminal 2 will be explained later.

[0023] The order terminal 3 is a data processing device installed in each karaoke booth and used by customers when ordering products. For example, a tablet PC is used as the order terminal 3. The customer selects the product they want to order from a product menu displayed on the tablet PC's touch panel and enters the quantity. By doing so, the customer's order data is transmitted to the reception server 1 via the communication network 5. The order terminal 3 may also be a handheld terminal carried by an employee and equipped with the function of inputting the product order details received from the customer. Alternatively, customers can install store-specific application software on their own mobile device, such as a smartphone, and use the smartphone as an order terminal by entering the application software ID, such as a membership code, into the reception terminal 2 upon entering the store.

[0024] The kitchen terminal 4 is a display device installed in the kitchen where food and beverage menu items are prepared. For example, a tablet PC is used as the kitchen terminal 4. The reception server 1 operates to display data related to the food and beverage menu items ordered by the user on the display device of the tablet PC. The kitchen chef prepares the food and beverage menu items according to the information displayed on the kitchen terminal 4. The cooked food and beverage menu items are provided to the user in the karaoke booth. Incidentally, the kitchen terminal 4 may also be a printing device that prints data related to the food and beverage menu items ordered by the user on recording paper.

[0025] [Configuration of reception terminal] 3 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the reception terminal 2. The reception terminal 2 mainly comprises a tablet PC 20. Devices such as a printer 21, a card reader 22, a change dispenser 23, and a cashless payment terminal 24 are connected to this tablet PC 20 to form the reception terminal 2. Note that the devices connected to the tablet PC 20 are not limited to these. For example, the reception terminal 2 may also be formed by connecting a scanner that optically reads machine-readable codes such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes, or a drawer for storing cash, gift certificates, etc. to the tablet PC 20.

[0026] The tablet PC 20 includes a processor 201, a main memory 202, an auxiliary storage device 203, a clock 204, a communication unit 205, an imaging unit 206, a touch panel 207, a plurality of device interfaces 208, 209, 210, and 211, and a system transmission path 212. The system transmission path 212 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, etc. The system transmission path 212 connects the processor 201 to each of the other units and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0027] The tablet PC 20 constitutes a computer by connecting a processor 201, a main memory 202, an auxiliary storage device 203, a clock 204, a communication unit 205, an imaging unit 206, a touch panel 207, and multiple device interfaces 208, 209, 210, and 211 via a system transmission path 212.

[0028] The processor 201 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 201 controls each part to realize various functions of the reception terminal 2 in accordance with an operating system or an application program. The processor 201 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processor 201 is preferably a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0029] The main memory 202 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 202 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 202 stores an operating system or application programs in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 202 may store data required for the processor 201 to execute processes for controlling each unit in either the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 202 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten by the processor 201 as appropriate. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0030] The auxiliary storage device 203 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or an SSD (Solid State Drive) can be the auxiliary storage device 203. The auxiliary storage device 203 stores data used by the processor 201 when performing various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 201, etc. The auxiliary storage device 203 may also store the application programs described above.

[0031] The clock 204 keeps track of the date and time. The processor 201 processes the date and time kept by the clock 204 as the current date and time.

[0032] The communication unit 205 is an interface for performing data communication with the receiving server 1 via the communication network 5. The communication unit 205 transmits data to the receiving server 1 in response to a command from the processor 201. The communication unit 205 also outputs data received from the receiving server 1 via the communication network 5 to the processor 201 via the system transmission path 212. The communication unit 205 is a wireless communication unit that performs data communication in accordance with wireless communication regulations. The communication unit 205 may also be a wired communication unit that performs data communication via a wired communication cable.

[0033] The imaging unit 206 is equipped with a camera and captures an image captured through the lens of the camera. The imaging unit 206 outputs data of the captured image to the processor 201 via the system transmission path 212. The processor 201 has a function of analyzing the image captured by the imaging unit 206, reading machine-readable codes such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes, and acquiring information indicated by the codes. For example, the imaging unit 206 has a function of reading slip codes, membership codes that identify members, etc., which will be described later.

[0034] The touch panel 207 functions as an input device and a display device for the reception terminal 2. The touch panel 207 displays various screens related to the entrance reception function and the exit reception function under the control of the processor 201. The touch panel 207 detects a touch operation on the screen by the operator, and outputs a signal indicating the touch position to the processor 201.

[0035] The device interface 208 is connected to the printer 21. The device interface 208 outputs print data to the printer 21. The printer 21 prints print data for a reception slip created based on the first data input in the entrance reception function. The printer 21 prints print data for a receipt created based on the second data input in the exit reception function. The reception slip is a sheet of paper on which, for example, the box number of the karaoke booth used by the user, the number of people using the booth, the start time of use, etc. are printed. The box number is also printed on the reception slip in the form of a machine-readable code such as a barcode. The receipt is a sheet of paper on which transaction data such as the karaoke booth usage fee, the items and prices of the ordered products, and the facility usage fee, which is the total of these, are printed.

[0036] The device interface 209 connects to the card reader 22. The device interface 209 receives card data read by the card reader 22 and outputs it to the processor 201. The card reader 22 acquires card data from a magnetic card or an IC card including a contact or contactless IC chip. For example, the card reader 22 reads data recorded on a card medium such as a membership card or credit card. The processor 201 processes the card data input via the device interface 209. Specifically, when the card reader 22 reads membership card data, the processor 201 performs processing related to the member identified by the membership code recorded on the membership card. For example, the processor 201 awards service points to the member. Note that if the membership card is implemented by application software on a mobile terminal owned by the user, the imaging unit 206 may read the membership code displayed on the mobile terminal to acquire member information. When the card reader 22 reads credit card data, the processor 201 authenticates the credit card. If the credit card is authenticated, the processor 201 processes the payment of the facility usage fee by credit card.

[0037] The device interface 210 connects to the change machine 23. The device interface 210 takes in the denomination and number of banknotes or coins inserted into the change machine 23, and outputs this to the processor 201. The processor 201 calculates the amount inserted based on the data taken in via the device interface 210. The processor 201 then calculates the amount of change from the amount inserted and the facility usage fee, and processes the settlement of the facility usage fee in cash. At this time, the processor 201 outputs change data to the change machine 23 via the device interface 210. The change machine 23 dispenses the required number of banknotes or coins according to the change data.

[0038] The device interface 211 connects to the cashless payment terminal 24. The cashless payment terminal 24 is compatible with cashless payments such as electronic money and code payments. The device interface 211 imports data related to cashless payments input to the cashless payment terminal 24 and outputs it to the processor 201. The processor 201 processes the cashless payment of facility usage fees based on the data imported via the device interface 211.

[0039] The reception terminal 2 configured as described above can selectively switch between a manned mode and a self-service mode as an operating mode. The manned mode is a mode in which an employee inputs the first data and the second data related to the entry reception function, which accepts the input of first data required when a user enters the facility, i.e., the karaoke booth, and the exit reception function, which accepts the input of second data required when a user leaves the karaoke booth. In other words, the manned mode is an operating mode in which an employee operates the reception terminal 2. The self-service mode is a mode in which a user inputs the first data related to the entry reception function and the second data related to the exit reception function. In other words, the self-service mode is an operating mode in which a user operates the reception terminal 2. The self-service mode includes options such as an entry self-service mode that accepts only the input of first data related to the entry reception function, an exit self-service mode that accepts only the input of second data related to the exit reception function, and an entry / exit self-service mode that accepts both the input of first data related to the entry reception function and the input of second data related to the exit reception function.

[0040] To achieve this configuration, the reception terminal 2 has four types of application software installed in the auxiliary storage device 203, as shown in Fig. 4. The four types of application software are first application software 41 called "attended mode APL," second application software 42 called "entrance / exit self-service mode APL," third application software 43 called "entrance self-service mode APL," and fourth application software 44 called "exit self-service mode APL."

[0041] The first application software 41 is application software for controlling the operation in the attended mode. The second application software 42 is application software for controlling the operation in the entry / exit self-control mode. The third application software 43 is application software for controlling the operation in the entry / exit self-control mode. The fourth application software 44 is application software for controlling the operation in the exit / exit self-control mode. Details of the control by each application software 41 to 44 will be made clear in the operation explanation below.

[0042] The method for installing each piece of application software 41-44 into the auxiliary storage device 203 is not particularly limited. Each piece of application software 41-44 can be recorded on a removable recording medium, or distributed by communication via the communication network 5, and then installed in the auxiliary storage device 63. The recording medium may be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device. Each piece of application software 41-44 may also be installed in the main memory 202.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 5, the reception terminal 2 uses part of the volatile memory area in the main memory 202 as an area for a person in charge memory 51 and an area for a mode memory 52. The manager memory 51 is an area for storing manager codes. The manager code is the employee code of an employee who is permitted to operate the reception terminal 2. An employee who operates the reception terminal 2 signs on before starting operation. Sign-on is a function that authenticates the operator of the reception terminal 2 and makes it available for use. When sign-on is approved, the employee code of that employee is stored in the manager memory 51.

[0044] The mode memory 52 is an area for storing information that identifies the operation mode of the reception terminal 2. As described above, the reception terminal 2 has four operation modes: attended mode, entry / exit self-service mode, entrance / exit self-service mode, and exit / exit self-service mode. For example, when the operation mode is attended mode, the mode memory 52 stores "100" as information that identifies the operation mode. Similarly, when the operation mode is entry / exit self-service mode, the mode memory 52 stores "200" as information that identifies the operation mode, when the operation mode is entrance / exit self-service mode, the mode memory 52 stores "300" as information that identifies the operation mode, and when the operation mode is exit / exit self-service mode, the mode memory 52 stores "400" as information that identifies the operation mode.

[0045] 3, the reception terminal 2 is equipped with a main program such that the processor 201 realizes the functions of mode acquisition means 31, storage means 32, notification means 33, manned control means 34, and self-control means 35. The main program is also a type of application software installed in the auxiliary storage device 203 or main memory 202, similar to the application software 41 to 44.

[0046] The mode acquisition means 31 has a function of acquiring information on either the attended mode or the self-service mode, which is the operation mode of the reception terminal 2, from the server. The mode acquisition means 31 acquires the operation mode information from the connected reception server 1 via the communication unit 205. Specifically, information on the operation mode set in the reception terminal 2 is stored in the store-specific master table 400 of the reception management server 200. The reception management server 200 and the reception server 1 are connected via a communication network 300. In other words, the mode acquisition means 31 acquires the operation mode information from the reception management server 200 via the reception server 1. Note that the self-service mode information acquired by the mode acquisition means 31 includes information on the entry / exit self-service mode, information on the entry self-service mode, and information on the exit self-service mode. The self-service mode information acquired by the mode acquisition means 31 may be only information on the entry / exit self-service mode. Alternatively, it may be only two types of information, information on the entry self-service mode and information on the exit self-service mode.

[0047] The storage means 32 has a function of storing information about the operation mode acquired by the mode acquisition means 31. The storage means 32 stores the information about the operation mode acquired by the mode acquisition means 31 in the mode memory 52. ​​For example, when the storage means 32 acquires information about the attended mode by the mode acquisition means 31, it stores "100" as the information about the operation mode. Similarly, when the storage means 32 acquires information about the entry / exit self-service mode by the mode acquisition means 31, it stores "200" as the information about the operation mode in the mode memory 52; when the storage means 32 acquires information about the entry / exit self-service mode, it stores "300" as the information about the operation mode in the mode memory 52; and when the storage means 32 acquires information about the exit / exit self-service mode, it stores "400" as the information about the operation mode in the mode memory 52.

[0048] The notification means 33 has a function of notifying the reception server 1 that the operation mode acquired by the mode acquisition means 31 has been set in the reception terminal 2. The notification means 33 notifies the reception server 1 by transmitting information about the operation mode acquired by the mode acquisition means 31 via the communication unit 205. For example, when the mode acquisition means 31 acquires information about the attended mode and stores it in the mode memory 52, the notification means 33 transmits "100" as information specifying the operation mode to the reception server 1 for notification. Similarly, when the mode acquisition means 31 acquires information about the entry / exit self-service mode and stores it in the mode memory 52, the notification means 33 transmits "200" as information specifying the operation mode to the reception server 1. When the mode acquisition means 31 acquires information about the entry / exit self-service mode and stores it in the mode memory 52, the notification means 33 transmits "300" as information specifying the operation mode to the reception server 1 for notification. When the mode acquisition means 31 acquires information about the entry / exit self-service mode and stores it in the mode memory 52, the notification means 33 transmits "400" as information specifying the operation mode to the reception server 1 for notification.

[0049] The attendant control means 34 has a function of, when the information stored in the storage means 32 is attendant mode information, changing the screen of the display device to the attendant mode screen and accepting the input of the first data or the second data. That is, when the mode specifying information stored in the mode memory 52 is "100," i.e., attendant mode information, the attendant control means 34 changes the screen of the touch panel 207 to the attendant mode screen and accepts the input of the first data required when a user enters the karaoke booth or the input of the second data required when a user leaves the karaoke booth. The attendant mode screen will be made clear in the operation explanation below.

[0050] When the information stored in the storage means 32 is information about the self-play mode, the self-play control means 35 has a function of changing the screen of the display device to the self-play mode screen and accepting the input of the first data or the second data. That is, when the mode specifying information stored in the mode memory 52 is "200," i.e., information about the entry / exit self-play mode, the self-play control means 35 changes the screen of the touch panel 207 to the self-play mode screen and accepts the input of the first data required for the user to enter the karaoke booth or the input of the second data required for the user to exit the karaoke booth. Similarly, when the mode specifying information stored in the mode memory 52 is "300," i.e., information about the entry / exit self-play mode, the self-play control means 35 changes the screen of the touch panel 207 to the self-play mode screen and accepts the input of the first data required for the user to enter the karaoke booth. Furthermore, when the mode specifying information stored in mode memory 52 is "400," i.e., information on the exit self-service mode, self-service control means 35 sets the screen of touch panel 207 to the self-service mode screen and accepts input of second data required when the user exits the karaoke booth. The self-service mode screen will be made clear in the operation explanation below.

[0051] [Configuration of reception server] 6 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the receiving server 1. The receiving server 1 includes a processor 11, a main memory 12, an auxiliary storage device 13, a clock 14, a first communication interface 15, a second communication interface 16, and a system transmission path 17. The system transmission path 17 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, and the like. The system transmission path 17 connects the processor 11 to each of the other components and transmits data signals exchanged between them. The receiving server 1 constitutes a computer by connecting the processor 11 to the main memory 12, the auxiliary storage device 13, the clock 14, the first communication interface 15, and the second communication interface 16 via the system transmission path 17.

[0052] The processor 11 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 11 controls each part to realize various functions of the receiving server 1 in accordance with an operating system or application program. The processor 11 is, for example, a CPU. The processor 11 is preferably a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and can execute multiple processes in parallel.

[0053] The main memory 12 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 12 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 12 stores an operating system or application programs in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 12 may store data required for the processor 11 to execute processes for controlling each part in either the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 12 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten by the processor 11 as appropriate. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM.

[0054] The auxiliary storage device 13 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, the auxiliary storage device 13 can be an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD. The auxiliary storage device 13 stores data used by the processor 11 when performing various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 11, etc. The auxiliary storage device 13 may also store the application programs described above. The reception server 1 uses part of the storage area of ​​the auxiliary storage device 13 as areas for the box database 6, employee database 7, member database 8, and product database 9.

[0055] The clock 14 keeps track of the date and time. The processor 11 processes the date and time kept by the clock 14 as the current date and time.

[0056] The first communication interface 15 is an interface for performing data communication between each reception terminal 2, each order terminal 3, and the kitchen terminal 4 via the communication network 5. The second communication interface 16 is an interface for performing data communication with the reception management server 200 via the communication network 300.

[0057] The receiving server 1 configured as above uses a part of the volatile memory area in the main memory 12 as an area for the receiving terminal table 61. The receiving server 1 also uses a part of the same volatile memory area as an area for the box-specific files 62.

[0058] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the receiving terminal table 61. As shown in the figure, the receiving terminal table 61 includes a column Ca for receiving terminal IDs, a column Cb for operating modes, and a column Cc for operating flags. Column Ca describes a unique receiving terminal ID assigned to each receiving terminal 2. Column Cb describes information M that specifies the operating mode of the receiving terminal 2 identified by the receiving terminal ID described in column Ca of the same row. Column Cc describes an operating flag F. The operating flag F is one-bit data that identifies whether the receiving terminal 2 identified by the receiving terminal ID described in column Ca of the same row is operating. In this embodiment, the operating flag F is set to "1" to indicate that the receiving terminal 2 is operating, and set to "0" to indicate that the receiving terminal 2 is not operating.

[0059] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of data items stored in the box-specific file 62. The box-specific file 62 is a data file prepared for each karaoke booth. The box-specific file 62 stores information about users who have used that karaoke booth. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the box-specific file 62 stores items such as the box number, entry date and time, exit date and time, number of users, and order data. As mentioned above, the box number is a room number used to identify the karaoke booth. The entry date and time and the exit date and time are the date and time when the user entered and left the karaoke booth. The usage time is calculated from the entry date and time and the exit date and time. The number of users is the number of users. The order data is data related to the products ordered by the user. The data stored in the box-specific file 62 is used to calculate facility usage fees, etc.

[0060] In this way, the box-specific file 62 is an area for storing information about facility usage from the time a user enters a karaoke booth (a facility) until the time the user leaves, and information about the menu items ordered by the user within the facility, in association with the box number, which is the identification information for that karaoke booth. Note that the box-specific file 62 does not necessarily have to use the box number as the identification information for the karaoke booth. For example, a combination of the box number and a serial number may be used as the identification information for the karaoke booth. Alternatively, for example, a unique code generated arbitrarily may be used as the identification information for the karaoke booth.

[0061] [Store Master Table Explanation] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the store-specific master table 400. There are as many store-specific master tables 400 as there are karaoke booth stores whose reception systems 100 are managed by the reception management server 200. As shown in FIG. 9, the store-specific master table 400 has a store ID and the number of terminals N as header data. The store ID is a unique code assigned to each store to identify each karaoke booth store. The number of terminals N is the number of reception terminals 2 installed in the karaoke booth store identified by the store ID.

[0062] The store-specific master table 400 includes a column Cd for reception terminal IDs, a column Ce for installation location data, and a column Cf for set operation modes M. Column Cd describes a unique reception terminal ID that is individually set for each reception terminal 2.

[0063] Column Ce contains data indicating the installation location of the reception terminal 2 identified by the reception terminal ID written in column Cd of the same row. For example, if the reception terminal 2 is installed at the left end of the counter table installed at the reception desk, the text data "left end of counter" is written. For example, if the reception terminal 2 is installed to the left of the center of the counter table, the text data "left center of counter" is written. The installation location data described above is an example. The key is that the person maintaining the store-specific master table 400 should be able to understand the installation location of the reception terminal 2. The installation location data may be a symbol, graphic, or the like. Note that if a drawing or image showing the reception layout is prepared and the person maintaining the store-specific master table 400 can understand the installation location of the reception terminal 2 by looking at the drawing or image, the installation location data column Ce can be omitted from the store-specific master table 400.

[0064] Column Cf describes information specifying the operation mode of the reception terminal 2 identified by the reception terminal ID described in column Cd of the same row. The information specifying the operation mode is set in column Cf by the person in charge operating the maintenance PC. Next, the procedure for entering the information specifying the operation mode will be described.

[0065] When the person in charge starts up the maintenance PC 500 and selects the task of updating the store-specific master table 400, a list of karaoke booth stores managed by the reception management server 200 is displayed on the display of the maintenance PC 500. The person in charge then selects the karaoke booth store for which maintenance is to be performed. The display screen then becomes the reception terminal setting screen SCx (see FIG. 10).

[0066] 10 is an example of the reception terminal setting screen SCx. As shown in the figure, the reception terminal setting screen SC displays the name of the selected karaoke booth, i.e., the target store, and the number N of reception terminals installed in the target store. Also, for each of the N reception terminals 2, the reception terminal ID, installation location, and set operation mode M currently set in the store-specific master table 400 are displayed. Furthermore, an edit button TA is arranged in association with the reception terminal ID of each reception terminal 2. Incidentally, on the reception terminal setting screen SCx of FIG. 10, an edit button TAa is arranged for the reception terminal 2 with reception terminal ID "001" that is installed at the left end of the counter table and that is set to the attended mode. Similarly, an edit button TAb is placed for the reception terminal 2 with reception terminal ID "002" that is located at the center left of the counter table and has the manned mode set, an edit button TAc is placed for the reception terminal 2 with reception terminal ID "003" that is located at the center right of the counter table and has the entry / exit self mode set, and an edit button TAd is placed for the reception terminal 2 with reception terminal ID "004" that is located at the right end of the counter table and has the exit self mode set.

[0067] The person in charge operates the input device of the maintenance PC to input the edit button TA associated with the reception terminal 2 to be edited. For example, to change the operation mode of the reception terminal 2 installed at the center left of the counter table from manned mode to self-enter / exit mode, the person in charge inputs the edit button TAb. Upon receiving this input, the screen of the maintenance PC transitions to the master edit screen SCy (see FIG. 11).

[0068] FIG. 11 is a display example of the master editing screen SCy. As shown in the figure, the master editing screen SCy displays the reception terminal ID, installation location, and setting operation mode information of the reception terminal 2 associated with the input edit button TA. Furthermore, check boxes CBa, CBb, and CBc for operation modes other than the setting operation mode are arranged as the editing operation modes. Note that the setting operation mode check box may also be included as an editing operation mode check box. Additionally, the master editing screen SCy also displays a delete button BTp, a back button BTq, and a save button BTr. The delete button BTp is an operator that commands the deletion of the master data to be edited, i.e., the reception number, installation location data, and setting operation mode data, from the store-specific master table 400. The back button BTq is an operator that commands the return to the reception terminal setting screen SCx without saving the master data to be edited in the store-specific master table 400. The save button BTr is an operator that commands the saving of the master data to be edited in the store-specific master table 400.

[0069] 11, if the person in charge wants to change the operation mode of the reception terminal 2 from manned mode to self-entry / exit mode, for example, the person in charge checks the self-entry / exit mode checkbox CBa and presses the save button BTr. This updates the information specifying the operation mode of the reception terminal 2 set in the store-specific master table 400 from "100," which specifies the manned mode, to "200," which specifies the self-entry / exit mode. In this way, the store-specific master table 400 functions as a storage unit that stores information on the operation mode for each of the reception terminals 2. The reception management server 200 also functions as an update means that updates the information on the operation mode stored in the store-specific master table 400 in cooperation with the maintenance PC.

[0070] [Operation explanation of reception terminal] Next, the main operations of the reception terminal 2 will be explained using the flowcharts of Figures 12 to 17 and the screen examples of Figures 18 to 26. Note that the content and procedures of the operations explained using the flowcharts are examples. The content and procedures can be changed as appropriate as long as similar operational effects can be achieved. The screen examples are also examples. The content of the output text, the arrangement of images, the type and layout of software keys, etc. can be changed as appropriate.

[0071] 12 to 16 are flowcharts showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 in accordance with a main program. An employee operating the reception terminal 2 first performs a startup operation OPa (see FIGS. 27 and 28). For example, the employee turns on the main power of the reception terminal 2. In response to this startup operation OPa, the processor 201 starts the information processing of the procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. 12. In ACT1, the processor 201 displays the sign-on screen SCa (see FIG. 18) on the screen of the touch panel 207.

[0072] FIG. 18 is a display example of the sign-on screen SCa. As shown in the figure, the sign-on screen SCa has an input field INa for a user code and an input field INb for a password. The sign-on screen SCa also has a sign-on button BTa. The sign-on button BTa is an operator for notifying the processor 201 that sign-on has been performed. The sign-on button BTa is a software key. After checking the sign-on screen SCa, the employee performs a sign-on operation OPb (see FIGS. 27 and 28). That is, the employee enters their employee code in the input field INa, their password in the input field INb, and presses the sign-on button BTa.

[0073] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has displayed the sign-on screen SCa proceeds to ACT2. The processor 201 waits for a sign-on operation OPb to be performed in ACT2. The processor 201 recognizes that the sign-on operation OPb has been performed when an employee code is entered into the input field INa of the sign-on screen SCa, a password is entered into the input field INb, and the sign-on button BTa is pressed. The processor 201 proceeds to ACT3. The processor 201 issues a sign-on notification to the reception server 1 in ACT3. That is, the processor 201 controls the communication unit 205 to transmit a sign-on notification data signal to the reception server 1. This control causes the communication unit 205 to transmit the sign-on notification data signal to the reception server 1 via the communication network 5. This data signal includes the employee code and password entered into the sign-on screen SCa. The data signal also includes the terminal ID of the reception terminal 2.

[0074] Upon receiving the sign-on notification, the reception server 1 refers to the reception terminal table 61 to check whether the operating flag F associated with the terminal ID is "0," indicating that the terminal is not in operation. If the operating flag F is "0," the reception server 1 searches the employee database 7 to determine the validity of the employee code and password. If the password associated with the employee code entered on the sign-on screen SCa and stored in the employee database 7 matches the password entered on the sign-on screen SCa, the reception server 1 approves the employee identified by the employee code as an operator. The reception server 1 sets the operating flag F associated with the terminal ID to "1." On the other hand, if the operating flag F associated with the terminal ID is "1" or if the passwords do not match, the reception server 1 does not approve the employee identified by the employee code as an operator. The operating flag F remains "0." The reception server 1 then sends the approval result to the reception terminal 2 that sent the sign-on notification.

[0075] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that issued the sign-on notification proceeds to ACT4. In ACT4, the processor 201 waits to see whether the employee has been approved as an operator. If the employee has not been approved as an operator, the processor 201 determines that the sign-on operation OPb is an error. The employee retries the sign-on operation OPb.

[0076] If the employee is approved as an operator, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT5. The processor 201 writes the employee code of the approved employee in the manager memory 51 in ACT5. The processor 201 also requests the reception server 1 to set the operation mode in ACT6. That is, the processor 201 controls the communication unit 205 to send a request command CMa for setting the operation mode to the reception server 1. By this control, the communication unit 205 sends the request command CMa for setting the operation mode to the reception server 1 via the communication network 5. This request command CMa includes the terminal ID of the reception terminal 2.

[0077] The processor 11 of the reception server 1, which has received the request command CMa for setting the operation mode, executes information processing according to the procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. 17. The processor 11 waits for the request command CMa in ACT101. Upon receiving the request command CMa for setting the operation mode, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT102. In ACT102, the processor 11 inquires of the reception management server 200 about the operation mode. That is, the processor 11 controls the second communication interface 16 to send an operation mode inquiry command CMb to the reception management server 200. This control causes the operation mode inquiry command CMb to be sent from the second communication interface 16 to the reception management server 200 via the communication network 300. This inquiry command CMb includes the terminal ID of the reception terminal 2, which was included in the request command CMa for setting the operation mode. The inquiry command CMb also includes the store ID of the karaoke store in which the reception server 1 is installed.

[0078] When the reception management server 200 receives the operation mode query command CMb, it searches the store-specific master table 400 identified by the store ID included in the query command CMb. Then, it obtains information about the set operation mode stored in association with the terminal ID included in the query command CMb. The reception management server 200 responds with the information about the set operation mode to the reception server 1.

[0079] After inquiring about the operating mode from the reception management server 200, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT103. In ACT103, the processor 11 waits for a response from the reception management server 200. If the processor 11 is unable to receive a response from the reception management server 200 due to, for example, a communication failure in the communication network 300 or a malfunction of the reception management server 200, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT104. In ACT104, the processor 11 controls the first communication interface 15 to send a negative response command to the reception terminal 2 that sent the request command CMa. By this control, the negative response command is sent from the first communication interface 15 to the reception terminal 2 via the communication network 5.

[0080] On the other hand, when the processor 11 receives information about the set operation mode from the reception management server 200, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT105. In ACT105, the processor 11 controls the first communication interface 15 to send an acceptance response command to the reception terminal 2 that sent the request command CMa. By this control, the acceptance response command is sent from the first communication interface 15 to the reception terminal 2 via the communication network 5. The acceptance response command includes information about the operation mode received from the reception management server 200.

[0081] In this way, the receiving server 1, which has received the inquiry command CMb from the receiving terminal 2, inquires about the operation mode information from the reception management server 200. Then, the receiving server 1 transmits an acceptance response command or a negative response command to the receiving terminal 2 depending on the result of the inquiry.

[0082] Returning to the explanation of FIG. The processor 201 of the receiving terminal 2 that has transmitted the request command CMa for setting the operation mode proceeds to ACT7. The processor 201 waits for an acceptance response command as ACT7. If a negative response command is received from the receiving server 1 in this standby state, the processor 201 terminates the information processing of the procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. 12 as an error. For example, the processor 11 displays an error message on the touch panel 207 indicating that the operation mode cannot be set, and terminates the information processing. The receiving terminal 2 in which the error occurred cannot be used because the operation mode cannot be set.

[0083] When the processor 201 receives an acceptance response command from the reception server 1 in ACT7, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT8. The processor 201 acquires information about the set operation mode included in the acceptance response command in ACT8. The processor 201 then proceeds to ACT9. The processor 201 checks whether the set operation mode is the attended mode in ACT9. If it is not the attended mode, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT10. The processor 201 checks whether the set operation mode is the entry / exit self-service mode in ACT10. If it is not the entry / exit self-service mode, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT11. The processor 201 checks whether the set operation mode is the entry self-service mode in ACT11. If it is not the entry self-service mode, the processor 201 recognizes that the set operation mode is the exit self-service mode. In other words, after signing on, until acquiring information about the set operation mode, the reception terminal 2 is in a default state in which it is not operating in either the attended mode or the self-service mode.

[0084] Here, the processor 201 realizes the function of the mode acquisition means 31 by the processing of ACT6 to ACT11.

[0085] <Attended mode explanation> 13 is a flowchart showing the control procedure of the processor 201 when the set operating mode is the attended mode. The processor 201 writes information "100" specifying the attended mode in the mode memory 52 as ACT21. The processor 201 also starts up the "attended mode APL" which is the first application software 41 as ACT22. Thereafter, the processor 201 controls the operations of ACT23 to ACT32 in accordance with the "attended mode APL."

[0086] The processor 201 notifies the reception server 1 as ACT23 that the attended mode has been set. That is, the processor 201 controls the communication unit 205 to transmit a data signal including information "100" that specifies the attended mode to the reception server 1. By this control, the communication unit 205 transmits a data signal including the mode specifying information "100" to the reception server 1 via the communication network 5. This data signal also includes the terminal ID of the reception terminal 2.

[0087] Here, the operation of the accepting server 1 that has received a notification of the operating mode from the accepting terminal 2 will be described using the flowchart in FIG. 17. As described above, the processor 11 of the accepting server 1 that sent the acceptance response command in ACT105 proceeds to ACT106. In ACT106, the processor 11 waits for a notification from the accepting terminal 2. Then, when the processor 11 receives a notification of the operating mode from the accepting terminal 2, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT107. In ACT107, the processor 11 updates the accepting terminal table 61. That is, the processor 11 updates the information M that specifies the operating mode and is stored in column Cb in association with the terminal ID of the accepting terminal 2 that sent the notification, to the notified information. That is, in this case, the information M that specifies the operating mode is set to "100".

[0088] Returning to the explanation of FIG. After notifying the reception server 1 that the attended mode has been set, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT 24. In ACT 24, the processor 201 displays the attended mode top screen SCb (see FIG. 19) on the screen of the touch panel 207. The top screen SCb is an example of the attended mode screen.

[0089] FIG. 19 is an example of a display on the top screen SCb. As shown in the figure, the top screen SCb in manned mode displays a box list table Ta. The box list table Ta is a matrix of multiple rectangular areas, each assigned with a box number for a karaoke booth. Each rectangular area displays information about the karaoke booth with the box number displayed in that area. For example, a karaoke booth with no users is displayed as "vacant." A karaoke booth with users present is displayed with the start time of use, the number of users, etc. Furthermore, a business button BTb is located on the top screen SCb.

[0090] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 displaying the top screen SCb of the attended mode proceeds to ACT25. The processor 201 checks whether an entry operation has been performed in ACT25. If an entry operation has not been performed, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT26. The processor 201 checks whether an exit operation has been performed in ACT26. If an exit operation has not been performed, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT27. The processor 201 checks whether the business button BTb has been pressed in ACT27. If the business button BTb has not been pressed, the processor 201 returns to ACT25. In this way, the processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 displaying the top screen SCb waits for an entry operation, an exit operation, or the input of the business button BTb in ACT25 to ACT27.

[0091] The operator of the reception terminal 2 on which the top screen SCb is displayed is an employee. The reception employee performs an entry operation or an exit operation OPc (see FIG. 27). That is, when a customer who uses the karaoke box, a so-called user, arrives at the store, the employee performs an entry operation on the reception terminal 2. When the user who has been using the karaoke box leaves the store, the employee performs an exit operation on the reception terminal 2.

[0092] On the top screen SCb, when a partition area displaying one of the box numbers in the box list table Ta is pressed and held, for example, a pop-up PU (see Figure 20) with an entry button and an exit button is displayed superimposed on the top screen SCb.

[0093] FIG. 20 is a display example of the entry / exit processing screen SCc, which displays a pop-up PU superimposed on the top screen SCb. The pop-up PU is an image displayed when the area of ​​box number "01" is pressed and held down. The entry button is an operator for instructing the processor 201 to start an entry operation. The exit button is an operator for instructing the processor 201 to start an exit operation. In this way, the entry operation is performed when an employee presses and holds down a partitioned area, for example, to display the pop-up PU, and then touches the entry button. Similarly, the exit operation is performed when an employee displays the pop-up PU and then touches the exit button. Note that the operation for displaying the pop-up PU is not limited to a long press. For example, the pop-up PU may be displayed by tapping the partitioned area two or more times in succession.

[0094] When an entry operation is performed in the standby state of ACT25 to ACT27, processor 201 proceeds to ACT28. Processor 201 executes entry processing in ACT28. That is, when processor 201 detects that the entry button on the pop-up PU has been pressed, it causes the screen of touch panel 207 to become a screen that accepts input of first data required for a user to enter a karaoke booth. This screen may be, for example, an entry information input screen. The entry information input screen is a screen that accepts input of first data such as the number of users, the planned usage time, a course menu, and an option menu. An employee, who is the operator, inputs the number of users using the karaoke booth, the planned usage time, etc. into the entry information input screen. The screen that accepts input of first data may include a membership input screen, a membership registration screen, etc. The membership input screen is a screen that accepts input of a membership code if the user is a member. The membership registration screen is a screen that accepts input of data required for membership registration if the user is a non-member. The entry information input screen, member input screen, member registration screen, etc. are also examples of manned mode screens.

[0095] The processor 201 creates print data for a receipt based on the first data entered, for example, via the entry information input screen, and outputs it to the printer 21. The receipt is then issued from the printer 21, and the staff member hands it to the user. The user who receives the receipt can use the karaoke booth with the booth number printed on the slip.

[0096] The processor 201 also transmits first data including the input box number, number of users, expected usage time, course menu, option menu, etc. to the reception server 1. The reception server 1 stores the entry date and time, number of users, course menu, option menu, etc. in the box-specific file 62 for the box number assigned to the sectioned area where the long press operation was performed. If the user is a member, the membership code is also recorded. The entry date and time is, for example, the date and time measured by the clock 204 of the reception terminal 2 at the time the entry button was touched.

[0097] In this way, the admission process includes a process of displaying a screen for accepting input of first data, a process of issuing a reception slip based on the first data entered via that screen, and a process of sending the first data to the reception server 1. Note that the reception slip may be issued by sending it as electronic data to the user's smartphone, rather than being issued on paper.

[0098] When an exit operation is performed in the standby state of ACT25 to ACT27, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT29. The processor 201 executes exit processing in ACT29. That is, when the processor 201 detects that the exit button on the pop-up PU has been pressed, the processor 201 changes the screen of the touch panel 207 to a screen that accepts input of second data required for the user to exit the karaoke booth. This screen may be, for example, a receipt reading screen. After checking the receipt reading screen, the employee causes the imaging unit 206 to read the barcode on the reception slip submitted by the user. The barcode indicates the booth number of the karaoke booth used by the user. The reception slip may be issued from the reception terminal 2 in manned mode or from the reception terminal 2 in self-service mode. The screen that accepts input of the second data may include a payment method selection screen, etc. The payment method selection screen is a screen for selecting a payment method for the facility usage fee. Payment methods include cash, credit card, electronic money, code payment, etc. The slip reading screen, payment method selection screen, etc. are also examples of the attended mode screen. The attended mode screen may include other screens.

[0099] The processor 201 transmits the box number and exit date and time entered, for example, via the slip reading screen, to the reception server 1. The exit date and time is, for example, the date and time measured by the clock 204 of the reception terminal 2 at the time the exit button is touched. The reception server 1 records the exit date and time in the box-specific file 62 for the box number. The reception server 1 then calculates the usage time from the entry date and time and exit date and time recorded in the box-specific file 62, and calculates the karaoke box usage fee. The reception server 1 also calculates the facility usage fee by adding the price of the product based on the order data recorded in the box-specific file 62.

[0100] When the facility usage fee is calculated by the reception server 1, the screen on the touch panel 207 of the reception terminal 2 transitions to a payment method selection screen, and the employee receives payment using the payment method desired by the user and enters the payment data into the reception terminal 2. The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 performs settlement processing to account for the fee based on the facility usage fee and the payment data, and issues a receipt.

[0101] In this way, the exit process includes a process of displaying a screen for accepting input of second data, a process of transmitting the second data entered via that screen to the reception server 1, and a process of settling the facility usage fee. Note that the receipt issued in the settlement process may be an electronic receipt.

[0102] Note that operations on the top screen SCb are not limited to entry and exit operations. For example, a receptionist may receive an order for a menu item from a karaoke booth patron over an internal telephone line. In such a case, the receptionist selects a partitioned area displaying the box number of the karaoke booth where the order was placed. For example, the receptionist double-tap the partitioned area. This places the reception terminal 2 in a menu item ordering mode, and a list of menu items is displayed on the touch panel 207. The receptionist then selects the menu item ordered by the patron from the list. In this way, the order data for the selected menu item is written to the box-specific file 62 for that box number.

[0103] Furthermore, if no operation is performed for a predetermined time in the standby state of ACT25 to ACT27, the screen of the touch panel 207 may be returned to the sign-on screen SCa.

[0104] As mentioned above, the top screen SCb has a business button BTb arranged thereon. The business button BTb is an operator for instructing the processor 201 to switch business menus. The business menu includes registration business, report business, settlement business, deposit / withdrawal business, terminal authentication business, etc. The registration business is a business of registering product sales data in memory. The report business is a business of outputting an inspection report of the sales data registered in memory. The settlement business is a business of outputting a settlement report of the sales data registered in memory and clearing the memory. The deposit / withdrawal business is a business of outputting a deposit / withdrawal report showing the amount deposited in the change machine and the amount withdrawn from the change machine. The terminal authentication business is a business of authenticating the reception terminal 2.

[0105] The business button BTb is also used when an employee signs off. Signing off is an operation that cancels the authentication of the employee who has signed on and returns the reception terminal 2 to its default state. Therefore, an employee who signs off first performs an input operation OPd (see FIG. 27) on the business button BTb.

[0106] The default state generally refers to a state in which an employee has not been authenticated. In other words, the default state refers to a state in which no supervisor code is stored in the supervisor memory 51. The default state can also be said to be a state in which the supervisor code stored in the supervisor memory 51 has been cleared. In this embodiment, the default state includes a state in which the reception terminal 2 is not operating in either the attended mode or the self-service mode. In other words, the default state refers to a state in which no operating mode information is stored in the mode memory 52. ​​The default state can also be said to be a state in which the operating mode information stored in the mode memory 52 has been cleared.

[0107] In this way, when the reception terminal 2 is started up from a power-off state, or when the reception terminal 2 is signed off, or even after the reception terminal 2 is signed on and before the reception terminal 2 acquires information about the set operation mode, the reception terminal 2 is in a default state in which the reception terminal 2 is not operating in either the attended mode or the self-service mode. Note that when the reception terminal 2 is signed off, the operation mode information of the reception terminal 2 may be maintained as is in the mode memory 52.

[0108] When the service button BTb is pressed in the standby state of ACT25 to ACT27, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT 30. In ACT 30, the processor 201 displays the service menu screen SCd (see FIG. 21) on the screen of the touch panel 207.

[0109] FIG. 21 is an example of a display of the business menu screen SCd. As shown in the figure, the business menu screen SCd has a "Register" button, a "Report" button, a "Settlement" button, a "Deposit / Withdrawal" button, a "Terminal Authentication" button, and a "Sign Off" button. Each button is a software key. The "Register" button is an operator for instructing the processor 201 to select a registration business. The "Report" button is an operator for instructing the processor 201 to select a report business. The "Settlement" button is an operator for instructing the processor 201 to select a settlement business. The "Deposit / Withdrawal" button is an operator for instructing the processor 201 to select a deposit / withdrawal business. The "Terminal Authentication" button is an operator for instructing the processor 201 to select a terminal authentication business. The "Sign Off" button is an operator for instructing the processor 201 to sign off.

[0110] The employee who wishes to sign off checks the job menu screen SCd and then performs the sign-off operation OPe (see FIG. 27). That is, the employee touches the "Sign Off" button.

[0111] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has displayed the service menu screen SCd proceeds to ACT 31. The processor 201 checks whether or not the "sign off" button has been pressed in ACT 31. If a button other than the "sign off" button has been pressed, the processor 201 processes the service assigned to that button.

[0112] If the "Sign Off" button is pressed, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT32. In ACT32, the processor 201 sends a sign-off notification to the reception server 1. That is, the processor 201 controls the communication unit 205 to send a data signal of the sign-off notification to the reception server 1. By this control, the communication unit 205 sends a data signal of the sign-off notification to the reception server 1 via the communication network 5. This data signal includes the employee code stored in the manager memory 51. It also includes the terminal ID of the reception terminal 2.

[0113] Upon receiving the sign-off notification, the accepting server 1 refers to the accepting terminal table 61 and sets the operating flag F associated with the terminal ID to "0." It also clears the information M that specifies the operation mode.

[0114] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that issued the sign-off notification proceeds to ACT33. In ACT33, the processor 201 stops the attended mode APL, which is the first application software 41. In ACT34, the processor 201 also clears the data stored in the manager memory 51 and the mode memory 52. ​​In this way, the processor 201 that has accepted the sign-off input executes the sign-off process. The sign-off process includes the processes of ACT32 to ACT34 described above. In other words, sign-off is a process for canceling the authentication of the employee who has signed on and returning the reception terminal 2 to its default state. After completing the sign-off process, the processor 201 returns to ACT1 in FIG. 8. In other words, the processor 201 sets the screen of the touch panel 207 to the sign-on screen SCa.

[0115] Here, the processor 201 realizes the function of the storage means 32 by processing ACT21. The processor 201 realizes the function of the notification means 33 by processing ACT23. The processor 201 realizes the function of the manned control means 34 by processing ACT22 to ACT29.

[0116] <Explanation of self-entry / exit mode> 14 is a flowchart showing the control procedure of processor 201 when the set operating mode is entry / exit self mode. Processor 201 writes information "200" specifying entry / exit self mode in mode memory 52 as ACT41. Processor 201 also starts up second application software 42, the "entrance / exit self mode APL," as ACT42. Thereafter, processor 201 controls the operations of ACT43 to ACT50 in accordance with the "entrance / exit self mode APL."

[0117] The processor 201 notifies the reception server 1 as ACT43 that the entry / exit self mode has been set. That is, the processor 201 controls the communication unit 205 to send a data signal including information "200" that specifies the entry / exit self mode to the reception server 1. By this control, the communication unit 205 sends a data signal including the mode specifying information "200" to the reception server 1 via the communication network 5. This data signal also includes the terminal ID of the reception terminal 2.

[0118] The processor 11 of the accepting server 1, which has received the data signal including the terminal ID and the mode specifying information "200", executes the update process of ACT107 described with reference to Fig. 17. That is, the processor 11 refers to the accepting terminal table 61 and sets the information M specifying the operating mode associated with the terminal ID to "200".

[0119] After notifying the reception server 1 that the entry / exit self-service mode has been set, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT 44. In ACT 44, the processor 201 sets the screen of the touch panel 207 to the top screen SCe-a (see FIG. 22) of the entry / exit self-service mode. The top screen SCe-a is an example of a screen in the self-service mode.

[0120] 22 is a display example of the top screen SCe-a. As shown in the figure, the top screen SCe-a in the entry / exit self-service mode is divided into two areas: an entry area ARa and an exit area ARb. The entry area ARa has a "Reservation" button BTc and a "No Reservation" button BTd. The exit area ARb has a "Pay" button BTe. The "Reservation" button BTc is an operator operated by a user who has previously reserved a karaoke box when entering the store. The "Reservation" button BTc can also be considered an operator that instructs the processor 201 to allow a user with a karaoke box reservation to enter the store. The "No Reservation" button BTd is an operator operated by a user who has not previously reserved a karaoke box when entering the store. The "No Reservation" button BTd can also be considered an operator that instructs the processor 201 to allow a user without a karaoke box reservation to enter the store. The "Pay" button BTe is an operator operated by a user who has previously reserved a karaoke box when leaving the store. The "Pay" button BTe can also be said to be an operator that commands the processor 201 to exit the karaoke booth.

[0121] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has displayed the top screen SCe-a of the entry / exit self mode proceeds to ACT45. The processor 201 checks whether an entry operation has been performed in ACT45. If an entry operation has not been performed, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT46. The processor 201 checks whether an exit operation has been performed in ACT46. If an exit operation has not been performed, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT47. The processor 201 checks whether a specific operation has been performed in ACT47. The specific operation will be described later. If a specific operation has not been performed, the processor 201 returns to ACT45. In this way, the processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has displayed the top screen SCe-a waits for an entry operation, an exit operation, or a specific operation to be performed in ACT45 to ACT47.

[0122] The operator of the reception terminal 2 on which the top screen SCe-a is displayed is the user. The user performs an entry operation or an exit operation OPf (see FIG. 28). That is, a customer using a karaoke booth, that is, a user, operates the reception terminal 2 at the reception desk to perform an entry operation when arriving at the store. After that, when finishing using the karaoke booth and leaving the store, the user operates the reception terminal 2 at the reception desk to perform an exit operation.

[0123] Specifically, a customer who has made a reservation in advance and arrives at the store touches the "Reservation Made" button BTc on the top screen SCe-a. A customer who arrives at the store without making a reservation touches the "No Reservation" button BTd on the top screen SCe-a. In this way, the operation of touching the "Reservation Made" button BTc or the "No Reservation" button BTd is the entry operation. On the other hand, a customer who is leaving the store presses the "Checkout" button BTe on the top screen SCe-a. In this way, the operation of pressing the "Checkout" button BTe is the exit operation.

[0124] When an entry operation is performed in the standby state of ACT45 to ACT47, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT48. The processor 201 executes the entry process in ACT48. That is, when the "Reservation Made" button BTc is pressed, the processor 201 displays the screen of the touch panel 207 as a membership input screen. The membership input screen is a screen that accepts the input of a membership code. The user, for example, has the card reader 22 read data from their membership card. The processor 201 acquires the membership code from the membership card data read by the card reader 22. The processor 201 then transmits the membership code to the reception server 1. The reception server 1 searches the membership database 8 to acquire reservation information for the user identified by the membership code, and transmits the reservation information to the reception terminal 2. Upon receiving the reservation information, the processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 displays the number-of-users input screen SCf-a (see FIG. 25) on the screen of the touch panel 207. On the other hand, when the "No reservation" button BTd is pressed, the processor 201 displays the number of users input screen SCf-a on the touch panel 207.

[0125] FIG. 25 is a display example of the number-of-users input screen SCf-a. As shown in the figure, the number-of-users input screen SCf-a is a screen for receiving information on the number of users and whether any users are under the age of 20. To receive information on whether any users are under the age of 20, the reception terminal 2 may receive input of a membership code associated with membership information such as age. When a user inputs the number of users and touches the OK button, the screen of the touch panel 207 becomes a karaoke box selection screen. The karaoke box selection screen is a screen for receiving selection of the box number of the karaoke box to be used. The karaoke box selection screen is also a screen for receiving selection of the karaoke course menu, option menu, etc. These number-of-users input screen SCf-a and karaoke box selection screen are screens for receiving input of first data required for a user to enter a karaoke box. In other words, the number-of-users input screen SCf-a, karaoke box selection screen, etc. are also examples of self-mode screens.

[0126] The processor 201 creates print data for a receipt based on the first data entered via the number of users input screen SCf-a, the karaoke box selection screen, etc., and outputs it to the printer 21. The receipt is then issued from the printer 21, and the user then takes the receipt with them to the karaoke box.

[0127] The processor 201 also transmits first data such as the input booth number, number of users, information on whether there are any users under the age of 20, expected usage time, course menu, option menu, etc. to the reception server 1. The reception server 1 stores the entry date and time, number of users, course menu, option menu, etc. in the box-specific file 62 for the booth number input on the karaoke booth selection screen. If the user is a member, the membership code is also entered. The entry date and time is the date and time measured by the clock 204 of the reception terminal 2 at the time the "Reservation" button BTc or the "No Reservation" button BTd is touched, for example.

[0128] In this way, the admission process includes a process of displaying a screen for accepting input of first data, a process of issuing a reception slip based on the first data entered via that screen, and a process of sending the first data to the reception server 1. Note that the reception slip may be issued by sending it as electronic data to the user's smartphone, rather than being issued on paper.

[0129] When an exit operation is performed in the standby state of ACT45 to ACT47, processor 201 proceeds to ACT49. Processor 201 executes the exit process in ACT49. That is, when processor 201 detects that the "Checkout" button BTe has been pressed, it changes the screen of touch panel 207 to a screen that accepts input of second data required when the user leaves the karaoke booth. This screen is, for example, slip reading screen SCf-b (see FIG. 26).

[0130] 26 is a display example of the receipt reading screen SCf-b. As shown in the figure, the receipt reading screen SCf-b is a screen for instructing the user to hold the barcode on the reception slip over the camera. After checking the receipt reading screen SCf-b, the user holds the barcode on the reception slip over the lens of the imaging unit 206. The reception slip may be issued from a reception terminal 2 in self-service mode or from a reception terminal 2 in manned mode.

[0131] When the barcode on the reception slip is read by the imaging unit 206 through this operation, the processor 201 transmits the box number and exit date and time obtained by analyzing the barcode to the reception server 1. The exit date and time is, for example, the date and time measured by the clock 204 of the reception terminal 2 at the time the "Checkout" button BTe is touched. The reception server 1 writes the exit date and time in the box-specific file 62 for the box number. The reception server 1 then calculates the usage time from the entry date and time and exit date and time written in the box-specific file 62, and calculates the karaoke box usage fee. The reception server 1 also calculates the facility usage fee by adding the product prices based on the order data written in the box-specific file 62.

[0132] When the facility usage fee is calculated by the reception server 1, the screen on the touch panel 207 of the reception terminal 2 transitions to a payment method selection screen, where the user selects the desired payment method and pays the fee using that payment method. In response to this operation, the processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 performs settlement processing based on the facility usage fee and payment data, and issues a receipt. The slip reading screen SCf-b, the payment method selection screen, etc. are also examples of self-mode screens. The self-mode screen may include other screens.

[0133] In this way, the exit process includes a process of displaying a screen that accepts input of second data, a process of transmitting the second data input via that screen to the reception server 1, and a process of settling the facility usage fee. Note that the receipt issued in the settlement process may be an electronic receipt. Note that even if no operation is performed for a predetermined time in the standby state of ACT45 to ACT47, the screen of the touch panel 207 will not return to the sign-on screen SCa.

[0134] As described above, the processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 displaying the top screen SCe-a waits for a specific operation OPg (see FIG. 28) to be performed in ACT45 to ACT47. The specific operation OPg is a special operation that cannot be performed by a user as an entry or exit operation. For example, an operation of touching any four points on the touch panel 207 with a finger is defined as a specific operation POh. Such a specific operation OPg is an operation that only certain employees, such as the store manager, know.

[0135] When the processor 201 detects in ACT45 to ACT47 that a specific operation OPg has been performed, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT50. In ACT50, the processor 201 sends a sign-off notification to the reception server 1. That is, the processor 201 controls the communication unit 205 to send a data signal of the sign-off notification to the reception server 1. By this control, the communication unit 205 sends a data signal of the sign-off notification to the reception server 1 via the communication network 5. This data signal includes the employee code stored in the manager memory 51. The data signal also includes the terminal ID of the reception terminal 2.

[0136] If it is detected in ACT45 to ACT47 that a specific operation OPh has been performed, the processor 201 may accept an employee authentication operation before proceeding to ACT50. The authentication operation is, for example, an operation of accepting input of an employee code and a password. The authentication operation may be only input of the employee code.

[0137] Upon receiving the sign-off notification, the accepting server 1 refers to the accepting terminal table 61 and sets the operating flag F associated with the terminal ID to "0." It also clears the information M that specifies the operation mode.

[0138] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that issued the sign-off notification proceeds to ACT51. In ACT51, the processor 201 stops the entry / exit self mode APL, which is the second application software 42. In ACT52, the processor 201 also clears the data stored in the manager memory 51 and the mode memory 52. ​​In this way, the processor 201 that has accepted the sign-off input executes the sign-off process. The sign-off process includes the processes of ACT50 to ACT52 described above. In other words, sign-off is a process for canceling the authentication of the employee who has signed on and returning the reception terminal 2 to its default state. After completing the sign-off process, the processor 201 returns to ACT1 in FIG. 8. In other words, the processor 201 sets the screen of the touch panel 207 to the sign-on screen SCa.

[0139] Here, the processor 201 realizes the function of the storage means 32 by processing ACT41. The processor 201 realizes the function of the notification means 33 by processing ACT43. The processor 201 realizes the function of the self-control means 35 by processing ACT42 to ACT49.

[0140] <Self-Entry Mode Explanation> 15 is a flowchart showing the control procedure of processor 201 when the set operating mode is entry self mode. Processor 201 writes information "300" specifying entry self mode in mode memory 52 as ACT61. Processor 201 also starts up "entry self mode APL," which is third application software 43, as ACT62. Thereafter, processor 201 controls the operations of ACT63 to ACT68 in accordance with the "entry self mode APL."

[0141] The processor 201 notifies the reception server 1 as ACT63 that the entry self mode has been set. That is, the processor 201 controls the communication unit 205 to send a data signal including information "300" that specifies the entry self mode to the reception server 1. By this control, the communication unit 205 sends a data signal including the mode specifying information "300" to the reception server 1 via the communication network 5. This data signal also includes the terminal ID of the reception terminal 2.

[0142] The processor 11 of the accepting server 1, which has received the data signal including the terminal ID and the mode specifying information "200", executes the update process of ACT107 described with reference to Fig. 17. That is, the processor 11 refers to the accepting terminal table 61 and sets the information M specifying the operating mode associated with the terminal ID to "300".

[0143] After notifying the reception server 1 that the entry self-service mode has been set, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT 64. In ACT 64, the processor 201 displays the entry self-service mode top screen SCe-b (see FIG. 23) on the screen of the touch panel 207. The top screen SCe-b is an example of a self-service mode screen.

[0144] 23 is a display example of the top screen SCe-b. As shown in the figure, the top screen SCe-b in the entry self-service mode is the same as the entrance area ARa in the entry / exit self-service mode top screen SCe-a. That is, the top screen SCe-b has a "Reservation" button BTc and a "No Reservation" button BTd arranged thereon.

[0145] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has displayed the top screen SCe-b of the entry self-service mode proceeds to ACT65. The processor 201 checks whether an entry operation has been performed in ACT65. If an entry operation has not been performed, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT66. The processor 201 checks whether a specific operation has been performed in ACT66. The specific operation is the same as the specific operation described in the "Explanation of Entry / Exit Self-Service Mode." If a specific operation has not been performed, the processor 201 returns to ACT65. In this way, the processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has displayed the top screen SCe-b waits in ACT65 and ACT66 for an entry operation to be performed or for a specific operation to be performed.

[0146] The operator of the reception terminal 2 on which the top screen SCe-b is displayed is the user. The user performs the entry operation. That is, a customer using a karaoke booth, a so-called user, operates the reception terminal 2 at the reception desk to perform the entry operation when arriving at the store. This entry operation is the same as the entry operation described in "Explanation of the Entry / Exit Self Mode."

[0147] When an entry operation is performed in the standby state of ACT65 and ACT66, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT67. The processor 201 executes the entry process in ACT67. This entry process is also the same as the entry process explained as ACT48 in the "Explanation of the Entry / Exit Self Mode." Therefore, the description of the entry operation and entry process is substituted as is in the "Explanation of the Entry / Exit Self Mode," and the explanation here is omitted.

[0148] When the processor 201 detects that a specific operation OPg has been performed in the standby state of ACT65 and ACT66, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT68. In ACT68, the processor 201 sends a sign-off notification to the reception server 1. The processing of the sign-off notification is the same as the processing of the sign-off notification described as ACT50 in the "Explanation of the Entry / Exit Self Mode." The operation of the reception server 1 upon receiving the sign-off notification is also similar. Therefore, for the sign-off notification, the description in the "Explanation of the Entry / Exit Self Mode" is used as is, and the description here is omitted.

[0149] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that issued the sign-off notification proceeds to ACT69. In ACT69, the processor 201 stops the entry self-service mode APL, which is the third application software 43. In ACT70, the processor 201 also clears the data stored in the manager memory 51 and the mode memory 52. ​​In this way, upon receiving the sign-off input, the processor 201 executes the sign-off process. The sign-off process includes the processes of ACT68 to ACT70 described above. In other words, sign-off is a process for canceling the authentication of the employee who has signed on and returning the reception terminal 2 to its default state. After completing the sign-off process, the processor 201 returns to ACT1 in FIG. 8. In other words, the processor 201 sets the screen of the touch panel 207 to the sign-on screen SCa.

[0150] Here, the processor 201 realizes the function of the storage means 32 by processing ACT61. The processor 201 realizes the function of the notification means 33 by processing ACT63. The processor 201 realizes the function of the self-control means 35 by processing ACT62 to ACT67.

[0151] <Explanation of Self-Exit Mode> 16 is a flowchart showing the control procedure of the processor 201 when the set operating mode is the exit self mode. The processor 201 writes information "400" specifying the exit self mode in the mode memory 52 as ACT81. The processor 201 also starts up the "exit self mode APL," which is the fourth application software 44, as ACT82. Thereafter, the processor 201 controls the operations of ACT83 to ACT88 in accordance with the "exit self mode APL."

[0152] The processor 201, as ACT83, notifies the reception server 1 that the exit self mode has been set. That is, the processor 201 controls the communication unit 205 to transmit a data signal including information "400" that specifies the exit self mode to the reception server 1. By this control, the communication unit 205 transmits a data signal including the mode specifying information "400" to the reception server 1 via the communication network 5. This data signal also includes the terminal ID of the reception terminal 2.

[0153] The processor 11 of the accepting server 1, which has received the data signal including the terminal ID and the mode specifying information "200", executes the update process of ACT107 described with reference to Fig. 17. That is, the processor 11 refers to the accepting terminal table 61 and sets the information M specifying the operating mode associated with the terminal ID to "400".

[0154] After notifying the reception server 1 that the exit self-mode has been set, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT 84. In ACT 84, the processor 201 sets the screen of the touch panel 207 to the exit self-mode top screen SCe-c (see FIG. 24). The top screen SCe-c is an example of a screen in the self-mode.

[0155] 24 is a display example of the top screen SCe-c. As shown in the figure, the top screen SCe-c in the exit self-service mode is the same as the exit area ARb in the entry / exit self-service mode top screen SCe-a. That is, the top screen SCe-c has a "Checkout" button BTe.

[0156] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has displayed the top screen SCe-c of the Exit Self Mode proceeds to ACT85. The processor 201 checks whether an exit operation has been performed in ACT85. If an exit operation has not been performed, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT86. The processor 201 checks whether a specific operation has been performed in ACT86. The specific operation is the same as the specific operation described in the "Explanation of Entry / Exit Self Mode." If a specific operation has not been performed, the processor 201 returns to ACT85. In this way, the processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has displayed the top screen SCe-c waits in ACT85 and ACT86 whether an exit operation has been performed or until a specific operation has been performed.

[0157] The operator of the reception terminal 2 on which the top screen SCe-c is displayed is the user. The user performs an exit operation. That is, a customer using a karaoke booth, a so-called user, operates the reception terminal 2 at the reception desk when arriving at the store to perform an exit operation. This exit operation is the same as the exit operation described in the "Explanation of the Entry / Exit Self Mode."

[0158] When an exit operation is performed in the standby state of ACT85 and ACT86, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT87. The processor 201 executes the exit process in ACT87. This exit process is also the same as the exit process explained as ACT49 in the "Explanation of the Entry / Exit Self Mode." Therefore, for the exit operation and the exit process, the description in the "Explanation of the Entry / Exit Self Mode" is used as is, and the explanation here is omitted.

[0159] When the processor 201 detects that a specific operation OPg has been performed in the standby state of ACT85 and ACT86, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT88. The processor 201 sends a sign-off notification to the reception server 1 in ACT88. The processing of the sign-off notification is the same as the processing of the sign-off notification described as ACT50 in the "Explanation of the Entry / Exit Self Mode." The operation of the reception server 1 upon receiving the sign-off notification is also similar. Therefore, for the sign-off notification, the description in the "Explanation of the Entry / Exit Self Mode" is used as is, and the description here is omitted.

[0160] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that issued the sign-off notification proceeds to ACT89. In ACT89, the processor 201 stops the exit self-service mode APL, which is the fourth application software 44. In ACT90, the processor 201 also clears the data stored in the manager memory 51 and the mode memory 52. ​​In this way, the processor 201 that has accepted the sign-off input executes the sign-off process. The sign-off process includes the processes of ACT88 to ACT90 described above. In other words, sign-off is a process for canceling the authentication of the employee who has signed on and returning the reception terminal 2 to its default state. After completing the sign-off process, the processor 201 returns to ACT1 in FIG. 8. In other words, the processor 201 sets the screen of the touch panel 207 to the sign-on screen SCa.

[0161] Here, the processor 201 realizes the function of the storage means 32 by processing ACT81. The processor 201 realizes the function of the notification means 33 by processing ACT83. The processor 201 realizes the function of the self-control means 35 by processing ACT82 to ACT87.

[0162] [Explanation of reception terminal operation] 27 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operational procedure for the attended mode and the transition of screens displayed on the reception terminal. For example, when an employee performs a startup operation OPa on the reception terminal 2 before opening, a sign-on screen SCa is displayed on the touch panel 207, which is the display device of the reception terminal 2. The employee then performs a sign-on operation OPb.

[0163] When a sign-on operation OPb is performed, the reception terminal 2 transmits a request command CMa for a set operation mode to the reception server 1. The reception server 1, which has received this request command CMa, transmits an operation mode inquiry command CMb to the reception management server 200. The reception management server 200, which has received the inquiry command CMb, searches the store-specific master table 400, obtains information on the set operation mode stored in association with the terminal ID of the reception terminal 2, and transmits this information to the reception server 1. The reception server 1 transmits the information on the set operation mode received from the reception management server 200 to the reception terminal 2.

[0164] The reception terminal 2 stores the set operation mode information acquired from the reception management server 200 via the reception server 1 in the mode memory 52. ​​Thus, the screen of the touch panel 207 of the reception terminal 2 becomes the manned mode top screen SCb. Thereafter, the reception terminal 2 operates as a manned mode model in which the entrance operation and exit operation OPc are performed by an employee.

[0165] The reception terminal 2 that has acquired the information on the set operation mode from the reception management server 200 notifies the information on the set operation mode to the reception server 1. Upon receiving this notification, the reception server 1 updates the information on the operation mode of the reception terminal 2 that is managed in the reception terminal table 61 to the notified information on the operation mode.

[0166] When an employee performs an entry operation or an exit operation OPc on the reception terminal 2 in which the attended mode is set, the screen on the touch panel 207 transitions to the attended mode entry / exit processing screen SCc. The employee can use the entry / exit processing screen SCc to input first data required when a user enters the karaoke booth or second data required when a user leaves the karaoke booth. Then, when the entry operation or the exit operation is completed, the screen on the touch panel 207 returns to the attended mode top screen SCb.

[0167] On the other hand, when an employee operates the business button OPd, that is, touches the business button BTb, the screen of the touch panel 207 changes to the business menu screen SCd. Here, when the employee performs the sign-off operation OPe, the reception terminal 2 operating in the manned mode changes to the sign-off state. That is, the employee code stored in the manager memory 51 is cleared. The data in the mode memory 52 is also cleared. Then, the screen of the touch panel 207 changes to the sign-on screen SCa.

[0168] Therefore, for example, when an employee performs a sign-on operation OPb, the reception terminal 2 continues to operate as a model in the manned mode unless the information on the set operation mode stored in the store-specific master table 400 has been changed. On the other hand, if the information on the set operation mode has been changed to information on the entry / exit self-service mode, entrance self-service mode, or exit self-service mode, the reception terminal 2 operates as a model in the self-service mode.

[0169] 28 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation procedure for self-service mode and the transition of screens displayed on the reception terminal. When the operating mode information acquired from the reception management server 200 in response to an employee's sign-on operation is self-service mode information, the screen on the touch panel 207 becomes the self-service mode top screen SCe. Specifically, when the entry / exit self-service mode information "200" is acquired, the screen on the touch panel 207 becomes the entry / exit self-service mode top screen SCe-a; when the entry / exit self-service mode information "300" is acquired, the screen on the touch panel 207 becomes the entry / exit self-service mode top screen SCe-b; and when the exit / exit self-service mode information "400" is acquired, the screen on the touch panel 207 becomes the exit / exit self-service mode top screen SCe-c.

[0170] Thereafter, the reception terminal 2 on which the top screen SCe-a is displayed operates as a model in the self-entry / exit mode in which the user performs the entry operation and the exit operation OPf. The reception terminal 2 on which the top screen SCe-b is displayed operates as a model in the self-entry mode in which the user performs the entry operation OPf. The reception terminal 2 on which the top screen SCe-c is displayed operates as a model in the self-exit mode in which the user performs the exit operation OPf.

[0171] The reception terminal 2 that has acquired the information on the set operation mode from the reception management server 200 notifies the information on the set operation mode to the reception server 1. Upon receiving this notification, the reception server 1 updates the information on the operation mode of the reception terminal 2 that is managed in the reception terminal table 61 to the notified information on the operation mode.

[0172] When a user performs an entry operation or an exit operation OPf on the reception terminal 2 in which the self-mode is set, the screen on the touch panel 207 transitions to the entry / exit processing screen SCf in the self-mode. For example, when the user presses the "No Reservation" button BTc on the top screen SCe-a or top screen SCe-b, the screen on the touch panel 207 changes to the number of users input screen SCf-a. When the user presses the "Checkout" button BTe on the top screen SCe-a or top screen SCe-c, the screen on the touch panel 207 changes to the slip reading screen SCf-b. In this way, the user can input first data or second data via the entry / exit processing screen SCf. Then, when the entry operation or exit operation is completed, the screen on the touch panel 207 returns to the top screen SCe in the self-mode.

[0173] On the other hand, when the employee touches any four positions on the touch panel 207 with a finger as a specific operation OPg, the reception terminal 2 operating in self mode enters a sign-off state. That is, the employee code stored in the manager memory 51 is cleared. The data in the mode memory 52 is also cleared. Then, the screen of the touch panel 207 becomes the sign-on screen SCa.

[0174] Therefore, for example, when an employee performs a sign-on operation OPb, the reception terminal 2 continues to operate as a model in the self-service mode unless the information on the set operation mode stored in the store-specific master table 400 has been changed. On the other hand, if the information on the set operation mode has been changed to information on the attended mode, the reception terminal 2 operates as a model in the attended mode.

[0175] [Explanation regarding transactions in the reception system] 29 is a sequence diagram showing the procedure for a transaction in the reception system 100. In the reception system 100, the reception terminal 2, the reception server 1, and the order terminal 3 are devices that process data related to transactions with users. The reception terminal 2 may be in either an attended mode or a self-service mode.

[0176] 27 or 28, the reception terminal 2 that acquires information on the set operation mode in response to the sign-on operation OPb functions as a reception terminal in the attended mode if the information is information on the attended mode, and functions as a reception terminal in the self-mode if the information is information on the self-mode. Furthermore, the reception terminal 2 in the self-mode functions as a reception terminal in the entry / exit self-mode, an entrance mode, or an exit mode.

[0177] The reception terminal 2 in the manned mode and the reception terminal 2 in the self-service mode other than the exit self-service mode accept input of first data. The first data includes the booth number of the karaoke booth used by the user, membership information, the number of users, the start time of use, the course menu, the option menu, etc.

[0178] When a customer enters the store, the first data is input by an entrance operation OPc by an employee at the reception terminal 2 in the manned mode. The first data is input by an entrance operation OPf by the customer at the reception terminal 2 in a self-service mode other than the exit self-service mode. When the first data is input, the reception terminal 2 issues a reception slip SL based on the first data.

[0179] Furthermore, the first data entered into the reception terminal 2 is sent to the reception server 1. The reception server 1 stores the first data in a box-specific file 62. Specifically, the reception server 1 stores the first data received from the reception terminal 2 in a box-specific file 62 identified by the box number included in the first data. The first data in the box-specific file 62 becomes transaction data required to settle the transaction with the user.

[0180] The course menu and option menu included in the first data input at the time of reception are data on the product menu ordered by the user. On the other hand, the user can also order product menu items while using the karaoke booth. The user can order product menu items by operating the ordering terminal 3. Alternatively, if there is a reception terminal 2 operating in manned mode, an employee can operate the reception terminal 2 to order product menu items. The order data input via the ordering terminal 3 or the reception terminal 2 is sent to the reception server 1. The reception server 1 stores the order data in the corresponding box-specific file 62. In this way, the order data is added to the transaction data required to settle the transaction with the user.

[0181] Furthermore, the reception terminal 2 in manned mode and the reception terminal 2 in a self-service mode other than the self-entry mode accept input of second data. The second data includes the box number of the karaoke box used by the user, the time of completion of use, the payment method, etc. The box number can be input by reading it from the machine-readable code printed on the reception slip SL. In the reception terminal 2 in manned mode, the second data is input by an employee's entry operation OPc. In the reception terminal 2 in a self-service mode other than the self-entry mode, the second data is input by a user's entry operation OPf.

[0182] The second data entered into the reception terminal 2 is sent to the reception server 1. The reception server 1 stores the second data in the corresponding box-specific file 62. In this way, the second data is added to the transaction data required to settle the transaction with the user.

[0183] The reception server 1 transmits the data in the box-specific file 62, that is, the transaction data including the first data, order data, and second data, to the reception terminal 2 to which the second data was input. Upon receiving the transaction data, the reception terminal 2 executes the settlement process according to the selected payment method. The reception terminal 2 then issues a receipt RE on which details of the transaction data are printed. The receipt may be an electronic receipt. This completes the transaction with the user related to the reception system 100.

[0184] [Explanation of Effects of the Embodiments] As described above in detail, the reception terminal 2 of this embodiment operates in an operation mode according to the set operation mode information stored in the store-specific master table 400 each time a sign-on operation is performed. That is, if the set operation mode information is information about the attended mode, the reception terminal 2 operates as the attended mode reception terminal 2. If the set operation mode information is information about the self-service mode, the reception terminal 2 operates as the self-service mode reception terminal 2.

[0185] Therefore, for example, in a facility such as a karaoke booth establishment that has five reception terminals 2 installed at the reception desk, on days or time periods when there are many customers, three of the reception terminals 2 are operated as manned reception terminals 2 and two as self-service reception terminals 2. On days or time periods when there are few customers, two of the reception terminals 2 are operated as manned reception terminals 2 and three as self-service reception terminals 2. In this way, a reception system 100 that can efficiently handle customers can be easily realized by using some of the multiple reception terminals 2 installed at the reception desk as manned reception terminals and the rest as self-service reception terminals. It is also easy to configure all of the reception terminals 2 installed at the reception desk as manned reception terminals 2 or self-service reception terminals 2. Moreover, since the store employees only need to sign on to the reception terminals 2, it does not impose a burden on the employees.

[0186] Furthermore, the self-service reception terminal 2 can be configured as an entry self-service mode model that accepts only the input of first data related to the entry reception function, or as an exit self-service mode model that accepts only the input of second data related to the exit reception function. Furthermore, it is also possible to configure a self-service entry / exit mode model that accepts both the input of first data related to the entry reception function and the input of second data related to the exit reception function. Therefore, for self-service mode reception terminals 2, the number of reception terminals 2 with the entry reception function and the number of reception terminals 2 with the exit reception function can be changed as needed within a limited number. Even in this case, the store employee only needs to sign on to the reception terminal 2, so this does not impose a burden on the employee.

[0187] Incidentally, when changing the operation mode of a reception terminal 2 that is in operation, all that is required is to change the information on the set operation mode stored in the store-specific master table 400, then perform a sign-off operation and then a sign-on operation again. Therefore, for example, when switching a reception terminal 2 that has been operating in manned mode to self-service mode, the employee operating the reception terminal 2 simply performs a sign-off operation and a sign-on operation, allowing the operation mode to be changed quickly.

[0188] On the other hand, for the reception terminal 2 operating in self mode, the employee signs off by performing the specific operation OPh, and the employee can then perform the sign-on operation. Therefore, the operation mode can also be changed quickly. Furthermore, the reception terminal 2 operating in self mode will not sign off unless the specific operation OPh is performed. The specific operation is a special operation that is not possible as an entry or exit operation by a user. Therefore, there is almost no possibility that the reception terminal 2 operating in self mode will sign off due to a user's operation, and the system can operate stably.

[0189] Furthermore, the reception terminal 2 has a notification means 33, which notifies the reception server 1 of the operation mode acquired by the mode acquisition means 31. Meanwhile, the reception server 1 has a reception terminal table 61, which stores information on the operation mode notified from each reception terminal 2 for each reception terminal. Therefore, by referring to the information in the reception terminal table 61, there is an advantage in that it is easy to check the number of reception terminals 2 operating in the attended mode and the number of reception terminals 2 operating in the self-service mode.

[0190] [Second embodiment] 30 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the store-specific master table 401 in the second embodiment. The store-specific master table 401 is different from the store-specific master table 400 in the first embodiment in the column Cf for the set operation mode M. Specifically, in the store-specific master table 401, the column Cf for the set operation mode M is divided by day of the week. That is, in column Cf, information specifying the operation mode of the reception terminal 2 identified by the reception terminal ID written in column Cd of the same row is written for each day of the week. In column Cf, the information specifying the operation mode is set for each day of the week by the person in charge operating the maintenance PC.

[0191] FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by the processor 11 of the reception server 1 in the second embodiment. Portions common to the processing of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 17 are assigned the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. Specifically, the processor 11 waits for a request command CMa to be sent from the reception terminal 2 in ACT101. Upon receiving the request command CMa for the set operation mode, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT110. In ACT110, the processor 11 acquires the day of the week of the current date measured by the clock 14. Thereafter, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT102. In ACT102, the processor 11 inquires of the reception management server 200 about the operation mode. Specifically, the processor 11 controls the second communication interface 16 to send an operation mode query command CMb to the reception management server 200. This control causes the operation mode query command CMb to be sent from the second communication interface 16 to the reception management server 200 via the communication network 300. This query command CMb includes the terminal ID of the reception terminal 2 that was included in the request command CMa for the set operation mode, and the day of the week acquired in the processing of ACT 110. It also includes the store ID of the karaoke box store where the reception server 1 is installed.

[0192] When the reception management server 200 receives the operation mode query command CMb, it searches the store-specific master table 400 identified by the store ID included in the query command CMb. Then, it acquires information associated with the day of the week included in the query command CMb from the information on the set operation mode stored in association with the terminal ID included in the query command CMb. The reception management server 200 responds with the information on the set operation mode to the reception server 1.

[0193] After inquiring about the operation mode from the reception management server 200, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT 103. In ACT 103, the processor 11 waits for a response from the reception management server 200. Thereafter, the processor 11 executes the processes from ACT 103 onwards in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0194] According to the second embodiment configured as described above, the number of reception terminals 2 in the attended mode and the number of reception terminals 2 in the self-service mode can be changed for each day of the week depending on the settings of the store-specific master table 400. As a result, practical operations such as increasing the number of reception terminals 2 in the self-service mode on weekdays and increasing the number of reception terminals 2 in the attended mode on holidays can be easily realized without store employees even being aware of it.

[0195] In the second embodiment, the column Cf of the set operation mode M in the store-specific master table 401 is arranged by day of the week, but it may be arranged by time period, date, week, month, or the like.

[0196] [Third embodiment] FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by the processor 11 of the receiving server 1 in the third embodiment. Portions common to the processing of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 17 are assigned the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. Specifically, when the processor 11 receives a request command CMa for setting an operating mode from the receiving terminal 2 in ACT101, the processor 11 inquires of the operating mode from the reception management server 200 in ACT102. The processor 11 then waits for a response from the reception management server 200 in ACT103. Here, when the processor 11 receives information about the set operating mode from the reception management server 200, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT105. In ACT105, the processor 11 controls the first communication interface 15 to transmit an acceptance response command to the receiving terminal 2 that transmitted the request command CMa. The acceptance response command includes information about the operating mode received from the reception management server 200.

[0197] On the other hand, if a response cannot be received from the reception management server 200 due to, for example, a communication failure in the communication network 300 or a malfunction of the reception management server 200, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT 121. In ACT 121, the processor 11 searches the reception terminal table 61. Then, in ACT 122, the processor 11 acquires information about the operation mode stored in the reception terminal table 61 in association with the terminal ID of the reception terminal 2 that sent the request command CMa.

[0198] Thereafter, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT 105. In ACT 105, the processor 11 controls the first communication interface 15 to transmit an acceptance response command to the accepting terminal 2 that transmitted the request command CMa. The acceptance response command includes information about the operation mode acquired from the accepting terminal table 61 in the processing of ACT 122.

[0199] As described above, in the first embodiment, if the processor 11 of the receiving server 1 is unable to receive a response from the reception management server 200 due to, for example, a communication failure in the communication network 300 or a malfunction of the reception management server 200, the processor 11 sends a negative response command to the reception terminal 2. As a result, the operating mode of the reception terminal 2 is not set, and the reception terminal 2 becomes unusable.

[0200] In contrast to this, in the third embodiment, if the processor 11 cannot receive a response from the reception management server 200, it transmits the information of the operation mode acquired from the reception terminal table 61 to the reception terminal 2. Thus, the information of the operation mode acquired from the reception terminal table 61 is set in the reception terminal 2, and the reception terminal 2 operates in a mode corresponding to that information.

[0201] As described above, according to the third embodiment, even if a communication failure occurs in the communication network 300 or a malfunction occurs in the reception management server 200, the reception terminal 2 can be prevented from becoming inoperable.

[0202] [Variations] In the above embodiment, when switching the operation mode of the reception terminal 2, the reception terminal 2 is first signed off before switching the operation mode. In this regard, the operation mode may be switched without signing off. For example, in the reception terminal 2 operating in the attended mode, a "mode switch" button is added to the business menu screen SCd. When this "mode switch" button is pressed, the processor 201 requests the reception server 1 to set the operation mode. On the other hand, in the reception terminal 2 operating in the self mode, when a specific operation OPh is performed, the processor 201 requests the reception server 1 to set the operation mode. By configuring in this way, the operation mode can be switched without signing off.

[0203] In the above embodiment, since signing off is always performed before switching the operation mode, the first data or second data input to the reception terminal 2 before the switching is cleared. However, if the operation mode is switched without signing off, the first data or second data may remain. Such first data or second data may or may not be carried over after switching the operation mode.

[0204] In the above embodiment, a specific operation is awaited when an entry operation or an exit operation is awaited in self mode. The specific operation may be received during entry processing after an entry operation is received, or during exit processing after an exit operation is received. For example, if a specific operation is received during entry processing or exit processing, the processor 201 discards the data related to the entry processing or exit processing that has been input up to that point and signs off. Alternatively, if an abnormality such as an error occurs during entry processing or exit processing and a specific operation is received, the processor 201 retains the data related to the entry processing or exit processing that has been input up to that point and signs off. At this time, a message corresponding to the error that has occurred may be displayed for the store clerk.

[0205] In the above embodiment, the reception terminal 2 has been described as executing four types of application software 41 to 44: "attended mode APL," "entrance / exit self-service mode APL," "entrance self-service mode APL," and "exit self-service mode APL." These four types of application software 41 to 44 may be configured as a single piece of application software. Alternatively, the three types relating to the self-service mode, "entrance / exit self-service mode APL," "entrance self-service mode APL," and "exit self-service mode APL," may be configured as a single piece of application software.

[0206] In the above embodiment, the reception management server 200 is provided with a store-specific master table 400, and the reception server 1 of each reception system 100 queries the reception management server 200 about the set operation mode each time a request for the set operation mode is received from the reception terminal 2. In another embodiment, the reception management server 200 downloads the master table 400 for each store to the reception server 1 of each reception system 100 in advance. Then, when a request for the set operation mode is received from the reception terminal 2, the reception server 1 searches the store-specific master table 400 to obtain information about the set operation mode that has been set as information for that reception terminal 2, and responds. By adopting such a configuration, the reception server 1 no longer queries the reception management server 200 about the set operation mode, which has the advantage of reducing the amount of communication traffic on the communication network 300.

[0207] In the above embodiment, the edit button TA is arranged in association with the reception terminal ID of each reception terminal 2 on the reception terminal setting screen SCx shown in Fig. 10. In this regard, instead of the edit button TA, check boxes CBa, CBb, and CBc for operation modes other than the setting operation mode may be arranged as on the master edit screen SCy shown in Fig. 11. This saves the trouble of inputting the edit button TA, thereby improving operability.

[0208] In the above embodiment, the reception terminal 2 is mainly constituted by the tablet PC 20. The reception terminal 2 may also be mainly constituted by a personal computer equipped with a keyboard and a display. Alternatively, the reception terminal 2 may be a product registration device such as a general-purpose POS (Point Of Sales) terminal.

[0209] In the above embodiment, the facility used by the user is a karaoke booth, and the reception terminal 2 is installed at the reception desk of a karaoke booth store that operates the karaoke booth. The facility is not limited to a karaoke booth. For example, the facility may be a leisure facility such as a darts bar or a manga cafe, or an athletic facility such as a sports gym, a golf course, or a bowling alley. That is, the reception terminal 2 installed at the reception desk of such a facility may be able to switch between an attended mode and a self-service mode, as in the present embodiment. Therefore, the first data required when a user enters the facility and the second data required when a user leaves the facility may be changed as appropriate depending on the type of the facility. For example, in a facility where the facility usage fee is a fixed amount, data related to the accounting for the facility usage fee may be entered as the first data.

[0210] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope of the invention and the scope of the inventions and their equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0211] 1...reception server, 2...reception terminal, 3...order terminal, 4...kitchen terminal, 5...communication network, 6...box database, 7...employee database, 8...membership database, 9...product database, 20...tablet PC, 21...printer, 22...card reader, 23...change machine, 24...cashless payment terminal, 31...mode acquisition means, 32...storage means, 33...notification means, 34...manned control means, 35...self-control means, 51...person in charge memory, 52...mode memory, 61...reception terminal table, 62...file by box, 100...reception system, 200...reception management server, 300...communication network, 400, 401...store-specific master table, 500...maintenance PC, 1000...reception management system.

Claims

1. a mode acquisition means for acquiring from a server information on an operation mode of either an attended mode in which an employee inputs the first data and the second data related to an entry reception function that accepts input of first data required when a user enters a facility and an exit reception function that accepts input of second data required when the user leaves the facility, or a self-service mode in which the user inputs the first data and the second data; a storage means for storing information on the operation mode acquired by the mode acquisition means; an attendant control means for, when the information stored in the storage means is the attendant mode information, changing the screen of the display device to an attendant mode screen and accepting the input of the first data or the second data; a self-control means for, when the information stored in the storage means is the information of the self-mode, changing the screen of the display device to a self-mode screen and accepting input of the first data or the second data; A reception device comprising:

2. The reception device according to claim 1, wherein the mode acquisition means acquires, as the self-mode information, information on an entry self-mode that accepts only input of the first data related to the entry reception function, or information on an exit self-mode that accepts only input of the second data related to the exit reception function.

3. The reception device according to claim 2, wherein the mode acquisition means further acquires, as information about the self-service mode, information about an entry / exit self-service mode that accepts input of both the first data related to the entry reception function and the second data related to the exit reception function.

4. 2. The reception device according to claim 1, wherein the mode acquisition means acquires the information on the operation mode from the server when a sign-on is performed to authenticate an operator of the reception device and make the reception device usable, while the operation mode information is in a standby state in which the storage means does not store the information on the operation mode.

5. 2. The reception device according to claim 1, wherein the mode acquisition means acquires the information on the operating mode from the server when a specific operation that is not used when operating in a self-mode in which the information on the self-mode is stored in the storage means is performed.

6. A reception management system including a plurality of reception devices and a server that manages the plurality of reception devices, The server a storage unit that stores, for each of the plurality of reception devices, information on an operation mode of the reception device, the operation mode being either a manned mode in which an employee inputs the first data and the second data relating to an entry reception function that accepts input of first data required when a user enters a facility and an exit reception function that accepts input of second data required when the user exits the facility, or a self-service mode in which the user inputs the first data and the second data; Equipped with the plurality of reception devices, a mode acquisition means for acquiring, from the server, information on the operation mode stored in the storage unit as information on the reception device; a storage means for storing information on the operation mode acquired by the mode acquisition means; an attendant control means for, when the information stored in the storage means is the attendant mode information, changing the screen of the display device to an attendant mode screen and accepting the input of the first data or the second data; a self-control means for, when the information stored in the storage means is the information of the self-mode, changing the screen of the display device to a self-mode screen and accepting input of the first data or the second data; A reception management system comprising:

7. A reception device computer equipped with a communication function with the server, a mode acquisition means for acquiring from the server information on one of an operational mode in which an employee inputs the first data and the second data related to an entry reception function for accepting input of first data required when a user enters a facility and an exit reception function for accepting input of second data required when the user leaves the facility, or a self-service mode in which the user inputs the first data and the second data; a storage means for storing information on the operation mode acquired by the mode acquisition means; an attendant control means for, when the information stored in the storage means is the attendant mode information, changing a screen of a display device to a attendant mode screen and accepting input of the first data or the second data; and a self-control means for, when the information stored in the storage means is information on the self-mode, changing the screen of the display device to a self-mode screen and accepting input of the first data or the second data; A program to function as a

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