Payment device and program

Abstract

To provide a settlement device that can cope with payment in foreign currencies, as well.SOLUTION: Rate acquisition means acquires a conversion rate of converting a first currency to a second currency. First calculation means calculates a settlement amount in unit of the first currency. First conversion means uses the rate to convert the settlement amount calculated in the unit of the first currency into a settlement amount whose unit is the second currency. Payment acquisition means acquires a payment amount for the settlement amount. Second calculation means calculates a difference between the settlement amount whose unit is the second currency and the payment amount when the payment amount is an amount whose unit is the second currency. Second conversion means uses the rate to convert the payment amount in unit of the second currency to a payment amount in unit of the first currency, and calculates a difference between the payment amount after conversion and the settlement amount calculated in unit of the first currency. Output means outputs the difference calculated by the second calculation means or the difference calculated by the second conversion means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] For example, stores operating in places where many foreigners gather, such as airports, can expect to attract more customers by accepting payments in foreign currencies as well as their own, which has led to a demand for payment devices that can also accept payments in foreign currencies. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-18305 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a payment device and a program therefor that can also handle payments in foreign currencies. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In one embodiment, the payment device includes a ratio acquisition means, a first calculation means, a first conversion means, a payment acquisition means, a second calculation means, a second conversion means, and an output means. The ratio acquisition means acquires a ratio for exchanging a first currency into a second currency. The first calculation means calculates a payment amount in units of the first currency. The first conversion means uses the ratio to convert the payment amount calculated in units of the first currency into a payment amount in units of the second currency. The payment acquisition means acquires a payment amount for the payment amount. If the payment amount is an amount in units of the second currency, the second calculation means calculates a difference between the payment amount in units of the second currency and the payment amount. The second conversion means uses the ratio to convert the payment amount in units of the second currency into a payment amount in units of the first currency, and calculates a difference between the converted payment amount and the payment amount calculated in units of the first currency. The output means outputs the difference calculated by the second calculation means or the difference calculated by the second conversion means. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the settlement device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the layout of main keys arranged on the keyboard of the payment device. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a rate table to which the settlement device refers. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing main work areas formed in the main memory of the settlement device. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor of the settlement device. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor of the settlement device. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an example of an image displayed on the touch panel of the payment device or the customer display. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an example of an image displayed on the touch panel of the payment device or the customer display. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an example of an image displayed on the touch panel of the payment device or the customer display. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an example of an image displayed on the touch panel of the payment device or the customer display. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an overview of a semi-self-service POS system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of a registration machine in a semi-self-service POS system. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of a checkout machine in a semi-self-service POS system. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor of the registration machine. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor of the registration machine. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor of the payment machine. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a payment device that can also handle payments in foreign currencies will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0008] [First embodiment] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of a payment device 10 according to a first embodiment. As shown in the figure, the payment device 10 includes a processor 11, a main memory 12, an auxiliary storage device 13, a clock 14, a communication interface 15, a change dispenser interface 16, multiple device interfaces 171-175, an output port 18, and a system transmission path 19. The system transmission path 19 includes an address bus, a data bus, control signal lines, and the like. The payment device 10 configures a computer by connecting the processor 11 to the main memory 12, the auxiliary storage device 13, the clock 14, the communication interface 15, the change dispenser interface 16, multiple device interfaces 171-175, and the output port 18 via the system transmission path 19. The payment device 10 connects various devices, including a touch panel 21, a keyboard 22, a scanner 23, a printer 24, and a customer display 25, to each of the device interfaces 171-175, respectively. The payment device 10 also connects a cash drawer 26 to the output port 18. The devices included in the payment apparatus 10 are not limited to the above devices. The payment apparatus 10 may be connected to other devices such as a magnetic card reader, an IC card reader / writer, and a pin pad via device interfaces.

[0009] The processor 11 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 11 controls each part to realize various functions of the payment device 10 in accordance with an operating system or an application program. The processor 11 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0010] 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 (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0011] The auxiliary storage device 13 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 13. The auxiliary storage device 13 stores data used by the processor 11 when performing various processes, or data created by the processes in the processor 11. The auxiliary storage device 13 may also store the application programs described above.

[0012] 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.

[0013] The communication interface 15 is a circuit for communicating data with external computer devices via a communication network. Examples of external computer devices include servers that provide services such as product management and sales tallying, and servers that support payments using credit cards and electronic money.

[0014] The change machine interface 16 is a circuit for communicating data with the automatic change machine 20. The automatic change machine 20 has the function of counting the number of banknotes or coins inserted through an insertion slot by denomination to determine the inserted amount and outputting the inserted amount data to the settlement device 10, and the function of dispensing banknotes or coins equivalent to the change from a dispensing slot based on the change data received from the settlement device 10. In other words, the change machine interface 16 has the function of receiving the inserted amount data from the automatic change machine 20 and the function of transmitting the change data to the automatic change machine 20.

[0015] The device interface 171 is a circuit for performing data communication with the touch panel 21. The touch panel 21 is a display device capable of displaying display elements such as characters, symbols, and images on a display screen. The touch panel 21 is also an input device that detects a touch operation position on the display screen with a sensor and processes the display element at that position as if it were input.

[0016] The device interface 171 is a circuit for communicating data with the keyboard 22. The keyboard 22 is an input device that processes key signals corresponding to input keys. As shown in FIG. 2, the keyboard 22 has various function keys, such as a number-specifying key 221 for inputting numbers "0" to "9" and "00," as well as a C key 222, a replacement key 223, a subtotal key 224, a current total key 225, a credit key 226, an electronic money key 227, and a foreign currency key 228. The C key 222 is a key for clearing the number previously entered with the number-specifying key 221. The replacement key 223 is a key for issuing a currency exchange command. The subtotal key 224 is a key for outputting the subtotal amount. The current total key 225 is a key for issuing a cash settlement command. The credit key 226 is a key for issuing a credit card settlement command. The electronic money key 227 is a key for issuing an electronic money settlement command. The foreign currency key 228 is a key for instructing payment in a foreign currency other than the domestic currency. Incidentally, settlement means receiving payment for goods or services and closing a transaction with a customer. Therefore, the cash total key 225, credit key 226, and electronic money key 227 can all be called closing keys.

[0017] Returning to the explanation of Figure 1. The device interface 173 is a circuit for communicating data with the scanner 23. The scanner 23 is an optical input device that reads machine-readable codes such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes by scanning them with light. The scanner 23 may also be an imaging input device that reads machine-readable codes from images captured by a camera. The scanner 23 can read not only machine-readable codes attached to products, etc., but also machine-readable codes displayed on the display of a terminal such as a smartphone.

[0018] The device interface 174 is a circuit for communicating data with the printer 24. The printer 24 is a printing device that prints transaction settlement data on a paper medium and issues a receipt.

[0019] The device interface 175 is a circuit for performing data communication with the customer display 25. The customer display 25 is a display device that displays various information to the customer who is the subject of a transaction to be settled by the settlement device 10.

[0020] The output port 18 is a circuit for outputting an open command signal to the drawer 26. The drawer 26 is for storing not only domestic banknotes and coins but also foreign banknotes and coins, and opens in response to the open command signal from the output port 18. The closing operation is performed manually by an operator.

[0021] The settlement device 10 configured as described above is an electronic device used to receive payment from a customer for goods purchased at a store or for services provided by a store, and to settle transactions with the customer. Generally, the settlement device 10 is called a POS (Point Of Sales) terminal, a cash register, an accounting machine, etc. The term "customer" may also be referred to as the transaction target, the settler, the purchaser, the store user, etc.

[0022] The operator of the payment device 10 is typically a store clerk. While there are self-service payment devices in which a customer can act as the operator, this embodiment illustrates a face-to-face payment device in which a store clerk acts as the operator. For this reason, the touch panel 21 functions as a display for the store clerk. The touch panel 21, keyboard 22, and scanner 23 are input devices that can be operated by the store clerk. In particular, the keyboard 22 functions as an input device for inputting the amount.

[0023] The payment device 10 is provided with a foreign currency key 228 on the keyboard 22 so that it can handle payments in not only the local currency but also foreign currencies. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the payment device 10 is used within Japan. That is, the local currency, which is the first currency, is the yen. The foreign currency, which is the second currency, is, for example, the dollar, the euro, the pound, the franc, the won, the yuan, etc. The types and number of foreign currencies are not particularly limited.

[0024] There is an exchange rate, which is the ratio used when exchanging the yen with foreign currencies. Therefore, the settlement device 10 utilizes a data table, so-called rate table 30, which stores the exchange rate for each foreign currency, as shown in Figure 3. The rate table 30 is stored in the main memory 12 or the auxiliary storage device 13. Alternatively, the rate table 30 may be managed on a server connected via the communication interface 15, and accessed by the settlement device 10 when necessary. For example, the exchange rate used when the yen is bought and sold in the foreign exchange market, so-called exchange rate (exchange rate), may be used as the exchange rate.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 4, the payment device 10 divides part of the work area in the main memory 12 into a first payment amount memory 121, a second payment amount memory 122, a payment amount memory 123, a deficit memory 124, a change amount memory 125, and an exchange rate memory 126. The first payment amount memory 121 is an area for storing the payment amount in the home currency, i.e., the first payment amount. The second payment amount memory 122 is an area for storing the payment amount in the foreign currency, i.e., the second payment amount. The payment amount memory 123 is an area for storing the payment amount relative to the payment amount. The deficit memory 124 is an area for storing the difference between the payment amount and the first payment amount as the deficit when the difference between the payment amount and the first payment amount is negative, or when the difference between the payment amount and the second payment amount is negative. The change amount memory 125 is an area for storing the difference between the payment amount minus the first payment amount and the payment amount as the change amount when the difference is 0 or a positive value, or when the difference between the payment amount minus the second payment amount and the payment amount is 0 or a positive value. The conversion rate memory 126 is an area for storing the conversion rate obtained from the rate table 30.

[0026] As shown in Figure 1, the processor 11 of the payment device 10 has the functions of a ratio acquisition means 111, a first calculation means 112, a first conversion means 113, a payment acquisition means 114, a second calculation means 115, a second conversion means 116, a third calculation means 117, and an output means 118.

[0027] The ratio acquisition means 111 is a function for acquiring a conversion rate, which is a ratio when exchanging a first currency (home currency) into a second currency (foreign currency). The ratio acquisition means 111 refers to the rate table 30 described above to acquire the necessary conversion rate.

[0028] The first calculation means 112 has a function of calculating the payment amount in units of the first currency. The payment amount calculated by the first calculation means 112, i.e., the first payment amount, is stored in a first payment amount memory 121.

[0029] First conversion means 113 has a function of converting the first payment amount calculated by first calculation means 112 into a payment amount in units of the second currency using the ratio, i.e., the conversion rate, acquired by ratio acquisition means 111. The payment amount converted by first conversion means 113, i.e., the second payment amount, is stored in second payment amount memory 122.

[0030] The payment acquisition means 114 has a function of acquiring the payment amount for the first payment amount or the second payment amount. Specifically, the payment acquisition means 114 acquires the amount inserted into the automatic change dispenser 20 as the payment amount for the first payment amount. The payment acquisition means 114 also acquires the number entered using the number entry keys 221 on the keyboard 22 as the payment amount for the second payment amount. The payment amount acquired by the payment acquisition means 114 is stored in the payment amount memory 123.

[0031] The second calculation means 115 has a function of calculating the difference between the second settlement amount and the payment amount acquired by the payment acquisition means 114 when the payment amount is an amount in the second currency. If the difference calculated by the second calculation means 115 is a negative value, the difference is stored in the shortage amount memory 124. If the difference calculated by the second calculation means 115 is 0 or a positive value, the difference is stored in the change amount memory 125.

[0032] If the difference calculated by the second calculation means 115 is 0 or a positive value, the second conversion means 116 converts the payment amount in the second currency into the payment amount in the first currency using the ratio, i.e., the conversion rate, acquired by the ratio acquisition means 111, and calculates the difference between the converted payment amount and the first payment amount. The difference is stored in the change amount memory 125.

[0033] The third calculation means 117 has a function of calculating the difference between the first settlement amount and the payment amount acquired by the payment acquisition means 114 when the payment amount is an amount in the first currency. If the difference calculated by the third calculation means 117 is a negative value, the difference is stored in the shortage amount memory 124. If the difference calculated by the third calculation means 117 is 0 or a positive value, the difference is stored in the change amount memory 125.

[0034] Output means 118 has a function of outputting the difference calculated by second calculation means 115 or the difference calculated by second conversion means 116. Specifically, if the payment amount in the second currency is less than the second settlement amount, output means 118 outputs the difference calculated by second calculation means 115 as the shortfall. Furthermore, if the payment amount in the second currency is equal to or greater than the second settlement amount, output means 118 outputs the difference calculated by second conversion means 116 as the change amount. Specifically, if the payment amount in the second currency is equal to or greater than the settlement amount in the second currency, output means 118 outputs a command to automatic change dispenser 20 to dispense the difference calculated by second conversion means 116 as change.

[0035] The functions of the ratio acquisition means 111, first calculation means 112, first conversion means 113, payment acquisition means 114, second calculation means 115, second conversion means 116, third calculation means 117, and output means 118 are realized by information processing executed by the processor 11 in accordance with the payment program 131. The payment program 131 is installed in the auxiliary storage device 13. The payment program 131 may also be installed in the main memory 12. The method for installing the payment program 131 in the main memory 12 or the auxiliary storage device 13 is not particularly limited. The payment program 131 can be installed in the main memory 12 or the auxiliary storage device 13 by recording it on a removable recording medium or by distributing it via communication over a network. The form of the recording medium is not important as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device, such as an SD memory card or USB memory.

[0036] Figures 5 and 6 are flow charts showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor 11 in accordance with the payment program 131. Figures 7 to 10 are examples of images displayed on either or both of the touch panel 21 and the customer display 25 in accordance with this information processing. Below, the main operations of the payment device 10, which can also handle payments in foreign currencies, are explained using each figure. Note that the steps and contents of the information processing explained below are examples. The steps and contents can be changed as appropriate as long as similar effects can be achieved. The images shown in Figures 7 to 10 are also examples. The layout, text, etc. of display elements can be changed as appropriate.

[0037] First, processor 11 waits for a product registration operation in ACT1. When a store clerk, who is an operator of payment device 10, receives a transaction request from a customer using the store, he or she performs an operation to register the product for which the transaction is to be performed using an input device such as touch panel 21, keyboard 22, or scanner 23. For example, if the product has a barcode indicating the product code, the clerk performs an operation to read the barcode with scanner 23. If the product does not have a barcode, the clerk performs an operation to input the product code from touch panel 21 or keyboard 22. In response to this operation, processor 11 determines that a product registration operation has been performed. Processor 11 proceeds from ACT1 to ACT2.

[0038] Processor 11 executes the registration process of product sales data as ACT2. That is, processor 11 writes product sales data, including the product code, product name, unit price, number of items sold, sales amount, etc. of the product being transacted, into transaction memory. Transaction memory is an area for storing product sales data for one transaction. Transaction memory is formed, for example, in a volatile area of ​​main memory 12.

[0039] When the product sales data registration process is completed, processor 11 proceeds to ACT 3. In ACT 3, processor 11 checks whether or not the subtotal key 224 has been entered. If the subtotal key 224 has not been entered, processor 11 returns to ACT 1. Processor 11 waits for the next product registration operation.

[0040] If a customer purchases two or more items, the store clerk will register the second and subsequent items in sequence. In response to this registration operation, processor 11 repeatedly executes the product sales data registration process. When the customer has completed the registration operation for all of the items they will purchase, the store clerk inputs the subtotal key 224. When the subtotal key 224 is input, processor 11 proceeds from ACT3 to ACT4. In ACT4, processor 11 calculates the first payment amount by functioning as first calculation means 112. For example, processor 11 calculates the first payment amount by adding up the sales amounts of the product sales data stored in the transaction memory. The first payment amount is the payment amount calculated in the currency of the customer's home country. In other words, in the case of Japan, the amount is calculated in yen. The first payment amount is stored in first payment amount memory 121.

[0041] After calculating the first payment amount, processor 11 proceeds to ACT 5. In ACT 5, processor 11 displays the first payment amount stored in first payment amount memory 121 on both touch panel 21 and customer display 25.

[0042] Figure 7 is an example of image 41 displaying the first payment amount. Image 41 displays the first payment amount "¥1,200" in units of yen in association with the text "Total." For the text "Deposit" and the text "Change," the deposit amount "¥0" and change amount "¥0" are displayed in units of yen, respectively.

[0043] After checking image 41 on touch panel 21, the clerk asks the customer to pay. If the customer wishes to pay in their own currency, the clerk enters cash key 225. If the customer wishes to pay by credit card, the clerk enters credit key 226. If the customer wishes to pay by electronic money, the clerk enters electronic money key 227. If the customer wishes to pay in a foreign currency, the clerk enters foreign currency key 228.

[0044] After displaying the first payment amount, processor 11 waits for a closing key, i.e., cash key 225, credit key 226, or electronic money key 227, to be entered as ACT6, or for foreign currency key 228 to be entered as ACT7. In this waiting state, if a key other than the closing key or foreign currency key 228 is entered, processor 11 executes processing according to the entered key.

[0045] If a closing key is entered during the standby state of ACT6 and ACT7, processor 11 proceeds from ACT6 to ACT8. Processor 11 determines the type of closing key entered in ACT8. For example, if credit key 226 is entered, processor 11 executes payment processing by credit card payment. If electronic money key 227 is entered, processor 11 executes payment processing by electronic money payment. Payment processing by credit card payment or electronic money payment is well known, so a description thereof will be omitted here.

[0046] When the cash total key 225 is pressed, the processor 11 proceeds from ACT8 to ACT9. In ACT9, the processor 11 displays on the customer display 25 an image instructing the customer to deposit money into the automatic change dispenser 20. For example, the processor 11 displays on the customer display 25 a message image stating, "Please insert the amount into the automatic change dispenser." After checking the message image, the customer inserts the currency of their country into the banknote slot or coin slot of the automatic change dispenser 20. In response to this insertion operation, the inserted amount data is sent from the automatic change dispenser 20 to the settlement device 10.

[0047] After instructing the deposit, processor 11 proceeds from ACT9 to ACT10. In ACT10, processor 11 waits for the deposit of the payment amount by functioning as payment acquisition means 114. Specifically, processor 11 waits for the deposit amount data to be sent from the automatic change dispenser 20. Upon receiving the deposit amount data, processor 11 stores the amount obtained from the deposit amount data in payment amount memory 123 as the payment amount in the currency of the user's country, and then proceeds to ACT11. In ACT11, processor 11, by functioning as third calculation means 117, calculates the difference by subtracting the first payment amount stored in first payment amount memory 121 from the payment amount stored in payment amount memory 123. For example, if the payment amount is "A" and the first payment amount is "B", the quotient "C" of "AB" is determined to be the difference.

[0048] In ACT 12, the processor 11 checks whether the difference "C" is a negative value, or whether it is "0" or a positive value. If the difference "C" is a negative value, the processor 11 proceeds from ACT 12 to ACT 13. In ACT 13, the processor 11 stores the difference "C" in the shortfall memory 124. Then, in ACT 14, the processor 11 displays the difference "C" stored in the shortfall memory 124 as the shortfall on the touch panel 21 and the customer display 25. For example, the processor 11 displays a message image on the touch panel 21 and the customer display 25 saying, "The payment amount is short by C yen."

[0049] Thereafter, processor 11 returns to ACT9. That is, processor 11 displays on customer display 25 an image instructing the customer to deposit money into automatic change dispenser 20. For example, processor 11 displays on customer display 25 a message image stating, "Please insert the missing amount into the automatic change dispenser." After checking the message image, the customer inserts an amount of their country's currency equal to or greater than the missing amount into the banknote insertion slot or coin insertion slot of automatic change dispenser 20. In response to this insertion operation, inserted amount data is sent from automatic change dispenser 20 to settlement device 10.

[0050] Upon receiving the deposited amount data, processor 11 adds the payment amount "D" obtained from the deposited amount data to payment amount memory 123. Then, processor 11 again calculates the difference "E" by subtracting the first settlement amount "B" from the payment amount "A+D" stored in payment amount memory 123. Here, if payment amount D is equal to or greater than the shortfall C, the difference "E" will be "0" or a positive value, and processor 11 proceeds from ACT 12 to ACT 15. In ACT 15, processor 11 stores the difference "E" in change amount memory 125. In ACT 16, processor 11 also displays the amount "A+D" in payment amount memory 123, i.e., the deposit amount, and the amount "E" in change amount memory 125, i.e., the change amount, on the touch panel 21 and the customer display 25. For example, processor 11 associates the amount "A+D" stored in payment amount memory 123 with the text "Deposit" in image 41 shown in Figure 7. Processor 11 also associates the amount "E" stored in change amount memory 125 with the text "Change" in image 41.

[0051] After displaying the deposit amount and the change amount, processor 11 checks in ACT17 whether the change amount is "0" or a positive value. If the change amount is a positive value, processor 11 proceeds from ACT17 to ACT18. In ACT18, processor 11 controls change machine interface 16 to output change data that commands automatic change machine 20 to dispense change. This control causes change data to be sent from change machine interface 16 to automatic change machine 20, and automatic change machine 20 dispenses currency equivalent to the change amount. The currency is the currency of the user's country. For example, if a customer inserts a 10,000 yen bill and a 500 yen coin into automatic change machine 20 for a transaction totaling 1,200 yen, automatic change machine 20 will dispense 300 yen as change.

[0052] When processor 11 completes processing in ACT 18 or skips processing in ACT 18 because the change amount was "0", processor 11 proceeds to ACT 19. In ACT 19, processor 11 controls printer 24 to print a receipt based on the product sales data stored in the transaction memory. With this, processor 11 completes processing of one transaction in accordance with the payment program.

[0053] On the other hand, if the foreign currency key 228 is pressed during the standby state of ACT6 and ACT7, the processor 11 proceeds from ACT7 to ACT21 in Figure 6. In ACT21, the processor 11 displays image 42 (see Figure 8) of the currency selection screen on the touch panel 21 and the customer display 25.

[0054] FIG. 8 is a display example of image 42. Image 42 represents a screen on which softkeys 421 to 424 for selecting foreign currencies are arranged. Softkey 421 is a key for selecting US dollars [USD]. Hereinafter, softkey 421 will be referred to as dollar key 421. The dollar key 421 displays the amount "136 yen" when 1 dollar is converted to Japanese yen at the conversion rate of rate table 30. Softkey 422 is a key for selecting euros [EUR]. Hereinafter, softkey 422 will be referred to as euro key 422. The euro key 422 displays the amount "138 yen" when 1 euro is converted to Japanese yen at the conversion rate of rate table 30. Softkey 423 is a key for selecting British pounds [GBR]. Hereinafter, softkey 423 will be referred to as pound key 423. The pound key 423 displays the amount "162 yen" when 1 pound is converted to Japanese yen at the conversion rate of the rate table 30. The soft key 424 is a key for selecting the Swiss franc [CHF]. Hereinafter, the soft key 424 will be referred to as the frank key 424. The frank key 424 displays the amount "141 yen" when 1 franc is converted to Japanese yen at the conversion rate of the rate table 30.

[0055] Therefore, the customer can easily understand the types of foreign currencies that can be used for payment and the exchange rates of those currencies against the Japanese yen from image 42. It goes without saying that the number and types of soft keys arranged on image 42 are not limited to those shown in Fig. 8. For example, image 42 may be an image of a currency selection screen further arranged with a soft key for selecting the Korean currency "Won" and a soft key for selecting the Chinese currency "Yuan".

[0056] After checking image 42, the customer offers the clerk the foreign currency in which they will make payment. The clerk then touches the soft key corresponding to the foreign currency offered by the customer. For example, if the customer is paying in US dollars, the clerk will touch dollar key 421. If the customer is paying in euros, the clerk will touch euro key 422. The same applies to customers paying in pounds or francs.

[0057] Processor 11, which has displayed image 42 of the currency selection screen, waits for a foreign currency to be selected as ACT22. For example, when processor 11 detects that dollar key 421 has been touched, it determines that "dollar" has been selected as the foreign currency to be used for payment. For example, when processor 11 detects that euro key 422 has been touched, it determines that "euro" has been selected as the foreign currency to be used for payment. The same applies when pound key 423 or frank key 424 has been touched.

[0058] When a foreign currency is selected, the processor 11 proceeds from ACT22 to ACT23. In ACT23, the processor 11, functioning as the rate acquisition means 111, refers to the rate table 30 to acquire the conversion rate of the selected currency. Then, in ACT24, the processor 11 stores the acquired conversion rate in the conversion rate memory 126. For example, when a store clerk touches the dollar key 421 so that a customer can pay in U.S. dollars, the conversion rate "136" is stored in the conversion rate memory 126. When a store clerk touches the euro key 422 so that a customer can pay in euros, the conversion rate "138" is stored in the conversion rate memory 126. The same applies when the pound key 423 or the frank key 424 is touched.

[0059] Having stored the conversion rate, processor 11, by functioning as first conversion means 113 in ACT 25, converts the first payment amount stored in first payment amount memory 121 using the conversion rate stored in conversion rate memory 126 to calculate the payment amount in the selected foreign currency. In ACT 26, processor 11 stores the converted payment amount in second payment amount memory 122. In ACT 27, processor 11 displays the payment amount in the foreign currency stored in second payment amount memory 122, i.e., the second payment amount, on both touch panel 21 and customer display 25.

[0060] FIG. 9 shows an example of image 43 displaying the second payment amount when the foreign currency "dollars" is selected as payment for the first payment amount of 1,200 yen. Since the conversion rate for "dollars" set in rate table 30 is "136," the first payment amount of 1,200 yen is converted to "dollars" to approximately $8.82. Rounding up the decimal point calculates the second payment amount of $9. As a result, image 43 displays the second payment amount in "dollars" in association with the text "TOTAL." The text "DEPOSIT" and the text "CHANGE" display the deposit amount of "$0" and the change amount of "$0," respectively, in "dollars." This image 43 allows the store clerk and the customer to easily understand that the first payment amount of 1,200 yen, calculated in their own currency unit, "yen," requires payment of $9 in the foreign currency unit, "dollars."

[0061] After displaying the second payment amount "$9," processor 11 displays image 431 (see FIG. 9) on customer display 25 as ACT28 to notify the customer that they cannot deposit cash into the automatic change machine. As shown in FIG. 9, image 431 is an image that displays the Japanese message "Please do not insert cash into the change machine" and the English translation of this Japanese message, "DO NOT INSERT CASH INTO MACHINE."

[0062] Incidentally, if a German-speaking currency is selected as the foreign currency, the message in image 431 will be in German, not English. Similarly, if a French-speaking currency is selected as the foreign currency, the message in image 431 will be in French. In this way, by displaying image 431, a message in the official language of the country or region in which the foreign currency is circulated, on customer display 25, which prevents the insertion of currency, it is possible to prevent a customer who has selected to pay with a foreign currency from accidentally inserting the foreign currency into automatic change dispenser 20.

[0063] After displaying image 431, processor 11 outputs an open command signal to drawer 26 in ACT29. Then, processor 11 waits for deposit of the selected currency by functioning as payment acquisition means 114 in ACT30. When a customer pays in a foreign currency, the clerk inputs the payment amount using number input keys 221 and presses cash total key 225. For example, if the customer pays in dollar bills, the clerk inputs "9" and presses cash total key 225. The clerk places the dollar bills received from the customer in drawer 26.

[0064] When the payment amount is input, processor 11 stores the payment amount in payment amount memory 123, and then proceeds from ACT 30 to ACT 31. In ACT 31, processor 11, using its function as second calculation means 115, calculates the difference by subtracting the second payment amount stored in second payment amount memory 122 from the payment amount stored in payment amount memory 123. For example, if the payment amount is "F" and the second payment amount is "G", the quotient "H" of "FG" is set as the difference.

[0065] In ACT 32, the processor 11 checks whether the difference "H" is a negative value, or whether it is "0" or a positive value. If the difference "H" is a negative value, the processor 11 proceeds from ACT 32 to ACT 33. In ACT 33, the processor 11 stores the difference "H" in the shortage memory 124. Then, in ACT 34, the processor 11, by functioning as the output means 118, displays the difference "H" stored in the shortage memory 124 as the shortage on the touch panel 21 and the customer display 25. For example, the processor 11 displays a message image saying "The payment amount is short by H dollars" on the touch panel 21 and the customer display 25. In this case, not only a message in Japanese but also a message in the official language of the country or region in which the selected currency is circulated is displayed.

[0066] After that, processor 11 returns to ACT30. That is, processor 11 waits for a deposit in the selected currency. Then, when the payment amount J in the foreign currency is entered using the number input keys 221 and the current total key 225, processor 11 adds the payment amount J to the payment amount memory 123. Then, processor 11 again calculates the difference "K" by subtracting the second settlement amount "G" from the payment amount "F+J" stored in the payment amount memory 123. Here, if the payment amount J is equal to or greater than the shortfall amount H, the difference "K" will be "0" or a positive value, and processor 11 proceeds from ACT32 to ACT35.

[0067] The processor 11, as ACT35, functions as the second conversion means 116 to convert the payment amount "F+J" in foreign currency into yen using the conversion rate in the conversion rate memory 126. For example, if the payment amount "F+J" is 9 dollars, the conversion rate for "dollars" set in the rate table 30 is "136," so 9 dollars is converted into 1,224 yen.

[0068] In ACT 36, processor 11 calculates the difference between the converted amount and the first payment amount, i.e., the change amount. Then, in ACT 37, processor 11 stores the change amount in change amount memory 125. In ACT 38, processor 11 displays the payment amount stored in payment amount memory 123 in association with the text "DEPOSIT" in image 43. In addition, processor 11 displays the change amount stored in change amount memory 125 in association with the text "CHANGE" in image 43.

[0069] FIG. 10 is an example of an image 44 displaying the payment amount and the change amount. As shown, "$9" is displayed for the text "TOTAL," "$9" is displayed for the text "DEPOSIT," and "￥24" is displayed for the text "CHANGE." Image 44 is displayed on both touch panel 21 and customer display 25, along with message image 441 indicating that change will be paid in Japanese yen. Image 441 includes a message in Japanese and a message in the official language of the country or region in which the selected foreign currency is circulated. This image 44 informs the store clerk that 24 yen will be paid as change for a transaction in which 9 dollars was paid for a settlement amount of 1,200 yen. The customer also understands that change will be paid in Japanese yen.

[0070] After displaying the deposit amount and the change amount, processor 11 checks in ACT 39 whether the change amount is "0" or a positive value. If the change amount is a positive value, processor 11 proceeds from ACT 39 to ACT 40. In ACT 40, processor 11, using its function as output means 118, controls change machine interface 16 to output change data that commands automatic change machine 20 to dispense change. This control causes change data to be sent from change machine interface 16 to automatic change machine 20, and automatic change machine 20 dispenses coins equivalent to the change amount. The coins are the currency of the home country.

[0071] Once ACT40 is complete, or ACT40 is skipped because the change amount was "0", processor 11 proceeds to ACT41. In ACT41, processor 11 controls printer 24 to print a receipt based on the product sales data stored in the transaction memory. With this, processor 11 completes processing of one transaction in accordance with the payment program.

[0072] As described above in detail, the settlement device 10 of this embodiment can handle not only payments in the first currency, which is the home currency, but also payments in the second currency, which is a foreign currency. Furthermore, if change is required for a payment in a foreign currency, the change is dispensed from the automatic change dispenser 20 in the home currency. Therefore, since there is no need to dispense change in a foreign currency, the current automatic change dispenser 20 can be used as is.

[0073] [Second embodiment] Next, a second embodiment will be described in which a settlement device capable of handling payments in foreign currencies is applied to a semi-self-service POS system.

[0074] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an overview of a semi-self-service POS system 100 according to a second embodiment. The semi-self-service POS system 100 includes one registration machine 50 and two payment machines 60, and the registration machine 50 and each payment machine 60 are connected via a communication network 70 such as a LAN (Local Area Network). The number of payment machines 60 is not limited to two; it may be one, or three or more. Furthermore, two or more registration machines 50 may be connected to one payment machine 60.

[0075] The registration machine 50 is an electronic device that generates payment data, including the payment amount, for settling a transaction with a customer by registering sales data for the products purchased by the customer. The payment data generated by the registration machine 50 is sent to one of the accounting machines 60 connected via the communication network 70. The accounting machine 60 is an electronic device that settles a transaction with the customer based on the customer's payment data for the payment amount in the payment data. In a semi-self-service POS system 100 configured as described above, the registration machine 50 is generally operated by a store clerk, and the accounting machine 60 is generally operated by the customer.

[0076] FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of a registration device 50. As shown in the figure, the registration device 50 includes a processor 51, a main memory 52, an auxiliary storage device 53, a clock 54, a communication interface 55, multiple device interfaces 561-565, an output port 57, and a system transmission path 58. The system transmission path 58 includes an address bus, a data bus, control signal lines, etc. The registration device 50 configures a computer by connecting the processor 51 to the main memory 52, the auxiliary storage device 53, the clock 54, the communication interface 55, the multiple device interfaces 561-565, and the output port 57 via the system transmission path 58. Similarly to the payment device 10 of the first embodiment, the registration device 50 connects various devices, such as a touch panel 21, a keyboard 22, a scanner 23, a printer 24, and a customer display 25, to each of the device interfaces 561-565. The registration device 50 also connects a cash drawer 26 to the output port 57.

[0077] Here, the basic explanation of the processor 51, main memory 52, auxiliary storage device 53, clock 54, communication interface 55, multiple device interfaces 561-565, and output port 57 is the same as that of the processor 11, main memory 12, auxiliary storage device 13, clock 14, communication interface 15, multiple device interfaces 171-175, and output port 18 of the payment apparatus 10. Therefore, the explanation will be omitted here. Note that the communication interface 55 is a circuit for performing data communication with external computer devices via the communication network 70, and such computer devices include the accounting machine 60.

[0078] The register 50 configured as described above has a foreign currency key 228 on the keyboard 22, similar to the settlement device 10. The register 50 also has part of the work area in the main memory 52 dedicated to a first settlement amount memory 121, a second settlement amount memory 122, a payment amount memory 123, a deficit memory 124, a change amount memory 125, and an exchange rate memory 126.

[0079] The processor 51 of the registration machine 50 has functions as a ratio acquisition means 511, a first calculation means 512, a first conversion means 513, a payment acquisition means 514, a second calculation means 515, a second conversion means 516 and a first output means 517.

[0080] The ratio acquisition means 511 is a function for acquiring a conversion rate, which is a ratio when exchanging a first currency (home currency) for a second currency (foreign currency). The ratio acquisition means 511 acquires the necessary conversion rate by referring to the rate table 30, as in the first embodiment.

[0081] First calculation means 512 has a function of calculating the payment amount in units of the first currency. The payment amount calculated by first calculation means 512 is stored in first payment amount memory 121. That is, first payment amount memory 121 stores the first payment amount.

[0082] First conversion means 513 has a function of converting the first payment amount calculated by first calculation means 512 into a payment amount in units of the second currency using the ratio, i.e., the conversion rate, acquired by ratio acquisition means 511. The payment amount converted by first conversion means 513 is stored in second payment amount memory 122. In other words, second payment amount memory 122 stores the second payment amount.

[0083] The payment acquisition means 514 is a function for acquiring the payment amount for the second payment amount. Specifically, after inputting using the foreign currency key 228 of the keyboard 22, the payment acquisition means 514 acquires the amount entered using the number entry keys 221 as the payment amount in units of the second currency. The payment amount acquired by the payment acquisition means 114 is stored in the payment amount memory 123. In other words, the payment amount memory 123 stores the payment amount for the second payment amount.

[0084] The second calculation means 515 has a function of calculating the difference between the payment amount in the second currency acquired by the payment acquisition means 514 and the second settlement amount. If the difference calculated by the second calculation means 515 is a negative value, the difference is stored in the shortfall memory 124, and if it is 0 or a positive value, the difference is stored in the change amount memory 125. In other words, the shortfall amount is stored in the shortfall memory 124, and the change amount is stored in the change amount memory 125.

[0085] The first output means 517 is a function that outputs payment data including the first payment amount and the change amount to the accounting machine 60 when the payment amount in the second currency unit acquired by the payment acquisition means 514 is greater than the second payment amount.

[0086] The functions of the ratio acquisition means 511, first calculation means 512, first conversion means 513, payment acquisition means 514, second calculation means 515, second conversion means 516, and first output means 517 are realized by information processing executed by the processor 51 in accordance with a registration machine payment program 531. The registration machine payment program 531 is installed in the auxiliary storage device 53. The registration machine payment program 531 may also be installed in the main memory 52. ​​The method for installing the registration machine payment program 531 in the main memory 52 or the auxiliary storage device 53 is not particularly limited. The registration machine payment program 531 can be installed in the main memory 52 or the auxiliary storage device 53 by recording it on a removable recording medium or by distributing it via communication via a network. The form of the recording medium is not important as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device, such as an SD memory card or USB memory.

[0087] Figure 13 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of a payment machine 60. As shown in the figure, the payment machine 60 includes a processor 61, a main memory 62, an auxiliary storage device 63, a clock 64, a communication interface 65, a change machine interface 66, multiple device interfaces 671-672, and a system transmission path 68. The system transmission path 68 includes an address bus, a data bus, control signal lines, etc. The payment machine 60 configures a computer by connecting the processor 61 to the main memory 62, the auxiliary storage device 63, the clock 64, the communication interface 65, the change machine interface 66, and multiple device interfaces 671-672 via the system transmission path 68. The payment machine 60 also connects a touch panel 21 to the device interface 671, and a printer 24 to the device interface 671.

[0088] Here, the basic explanation of the processor 61, main memory 62, auxiliary storage device 63, clock 64, communication interface 65, change machine interface 66, and multiple device interfaces 671-672 is the same as that of the processor 11, main memory 12, auxiliary storage device 13, clock 14, communication interface 15, change machine interface 16, and multiple device interfaces 171, 174 of the settlement device 10. Therefore, the explanation here will be omitted. Note that the communication interface 65 is a circuit for performing data communication with external computer equipment via the communication network 70, and the computer equipment includes the registration machine 50.

[0089] In the payment machine 60 configured as described above, the processor 61 has the functions of a payment acquisition means 611, a third calculation means 612, and a second output means 613.

[0090] The payment acquisition means 611 has a function of acquiring the payment amount for the first payment amount included in the payment data received from the registration machine 50. Specifically, the payment acquisition means 611 acquires the amount inserted into the automatic change dispenser 20 as the payment amount for the first payment amount.

[0091] The third calculation means 612 has a function of calculating the difference between the payment amount acquired by the payment acquisition means 611 and the first payment amount included in the payment data received from the registration machine 50.

[0092] The second output means 613 has a function of outputting to the automatic change dispenser 20 a command to dispense the difference calculated by the third calculation means 612 as change. The second output means 613 also has a function of outputting to the automatic change dispenser 20 a command to dispense change equivalent to the change amount included in the payment data received from the registration machine 50.

[0093] The functions of the payment acquisition means 611, third calculation means 612, and second output means 613 are realized by information processing executed by the processor 61 in accordance with a payment machine payment program 631. The payment machine payment program 631 is installed in the auxiliary storage device 63. The payment machine payment program 631 may also be installed in the main memory 62. There are no particular limitations on the method for installing the payment machine payment program 631 in the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63. The payment machine payment program 631 can be installed in the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63 by recording it on a removable recording medium, or by distributing it via communication over a network. The form of the recording medium is not important as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device, such as an SD memory card or USB memory.

[0094] 14 and 15 are flowcharts showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor 51 of the registration machine 50 in accordance with the registration machine payment program 531. Furthermore, FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor 61 of the payment machine 60 in accordance with the payment machine payment program 631. Below, the figures are used to explain the main operations of the semi-self-service POS system 100, which can also handle payments in foreign currencies. The information processing steps and content described below are merely examples. The steps and content can be modified as appropriate as long as similar effects can be achieved.

[0095] First, processor 51 waits for a product registration operation in ACT61. When a store clerk, who is an operator of registration device 50, receives a transaction request from a customer using the store, he or she performs an operation to register the product for which the transaction is to be made using the input device of touch panel 21, keyboard 22, or scanner 23, as in the first embodiment. In response to this operation, processor 51 determines that a product registration operation has been performed. Processor 51 proceeds from ACT61 to ACT62.

[0096] In ACT62, the processor 51 executes a process for registering product sales data. This registration process is similar to the process executed in ACT2 by the processor 11 of the payment device 10 in the first embodiment. Upon completing the registration process for product sales data, the processor 51 proceeds to ACT63. In ACT63, the processor 51 checks whether the subtotal key 224 has been entered. If the subtotal key 224 has not been entered, the processor 51 returns to ACT61. The processor 51 waits for the next product registration operation.

[0097] When the subtotal key 224 is input, the processor 51 proceeds from ACT63 to ACT64. In ACT64, the processor 51 calculates the first payment amount by functioning as the first calculation means 512. The first payment amount is the payment amount calculated in units of the currency of the home country. In other words, in the case of Japan, the amount is calculated in units of "yen". The first payment amount is stored in the first payment amount memory 121.

[0098] Once the first payment amount has been calculated, processor 51 proceeds to ACT65. In ACT65, processor 51 checks whether a command to transfer the payment data has been issued. For example, touch panel 21 is provided with a soft key, a so-called transfer key, that commands the transfer of payment data. If the customer wishes to pay in their home currency, which is the first currency, the clerk inputs the transfer key. On the other hand, if the customer wishes to pay in a foreign currency, which is the second currency, the clerk inputs foreign currency key 228. The transfer key may be a hard key located on keyboard 22. Similarly, foreign currency key 228 may be a soft key displayed on touch panel 21.

[0099] If the transfer of payment data is not instructed in ACT65, the processor 51 proceeds to ACT66. The processor 51 checks whether the foreign currency key 228 has been input in ACT66. If the foreign currency key 228 has not been input, the processor 51 returns to ACT65. In this way, the processor 51 waits for the transfer key to be input or the foreign currency key 228 to be input in ACT65 and ACT66.

[0100] If a transfer key is entered during the standby state of ACT65 and ACT66, processor 51 proceeds from ACT65 to ACT67. Processor 51 sets the completion flag to "0" in ACT67. Thereafter, processor 51 transfers the transaction data to the payment device 60 in ACT68. The transaction data includes the product sales data registered in ACT62, the first payment amount calculated in the processing of ACT64, and the completion flag set to "0" in the processing of ACT67. The transaction data is transmitted to payment device 60 via communication network 70.

[0101] If the foreign currency key 228 is pressed during the standby state of ACT65 and ACT66, the processor 51 proceeds from ACT66 to ACT71 in Fig. 15. In ACT71, the processor 51 displays image 42 (see Fig. 8) of the currency selection screen on the touch panel 21. Then, in ACT72 to ACT77, the processor 51 executes the same processes as ACT22 to ACT27 described in the first embodiment.

[0102] That is, processor 51, which has displayed image 42 of the currency selection screen, waits in ACT 72 for a foreign currency to be selected. When a foreign currency is selected by the store clerk's operation, processor 51 proceeds from ACT 72 to ACT 73. In ACT 73, processor 51, functioning as ratio acquisition means 511, refers to rate table 30 to acquire the conversion rate of the selected currency. Then, in ACT 74, processor 51 stores the acquired conversion rate in conversion rate memory 126. In ACT 75, processor 51, functioning as first conversion means 513, converts the first payment amount stored in first payment amount memory 121 using the conversion rate stored in conversion rate memory 126 to calculate the payment amount of the selected foreign currency. In ACT 76, processor 51 stores the converted payment amount in second payment amount memory 122. Processor 51 displays the payment amount in foreign currency stored in second payment amount memory 122, i.e., the second payment amount, on both touch panel 21 and customer display 25 as ACT77.

[0103] After displaying the second payment amount, processor 51 outputs an open command signal to drawer 26 in ACT 78. Then, processor 51 waits for input of the payment amount in the selected currency by functioning as payment acquisition means 514 in ACT 79. If the customer pays in a foreign currency, the store clerk inputs the payment amount using the number input keys 221 and inputs the current total key 225.

[0104] When the payment amount is input, processor 51 stores the payment amount in payment amount memory 123, and then proceeds from ACT 79 to ACT 80. In ACT 80, processor 51, by functioning as second calculation means 515, calculates the difference between the payment amount stored in payment amount memory 123 and the second payment amount stored in second payment amount memory 122.

[0105] In ACT81, the processor 51 checks whether the difference is a negative value, or whether it is "0" or a positive value. If the difference is a negative value, the processor 51 proceeds from ACT81 to ACT82. In ACT82, the processor 51 stores the difference in the shortfall memory 124. Then, in ACT83, the processor 51 displays the difference stored in the shortfall memory 124 as the shortfall on the touch panel 21 and the customer display 25.

[0106] After that, processor 51 returns to ACT79. That is, processor 51 waits for a deposit in the selected currency. Then, when the payment amount in the foreign currency is input using the number input keys 221 and the current total key 225, processor 51 adds the payment amount to payment amount memory 123. Then, processor 51 again calculates the difference by subtracting the second payment amount from the payment amount stored in payment amount memory 123. Here, if the payment amount is equal to or greater than the second payment amount, the difference will be "0" or a positive value, and processor 51 proceeds from ACT81 to ACT84.

[0107] As ACT84, processor 51 functions as second conversion means 516 to convert the payment amount in foreign currency into an amount in yen using the conversion rate in conversion rate memory 126. Thereafter, as ACT85, processor 51 calculates the difference between the converted payment amount and the first payment amount as the change amount.

[0108] In ACT86, processor 51 sets the completion flag to "1". Then, in ACT87, processor 51 transfers the transaction data to the payment machine 60. The transaction data includes the product sales data registered in ACT62, the second payment amount stored in ACT76, the change amount calculated in ACT85, and the completion flag set to "1" in ACT86. The transaction data is sent to the payment machine 60 via communication network 70. With this, processor 51 completes processing of one transaction in accordance with the registration machine payment program.

[0109] As shown in Figure 16, processor 61 of accounting machine 60 waits for transaction data in ACT 91. When processor 61 receives transaction data from register 50, it proceeds from ACT 91 to ACT 92. Processor 61 checks the completion flag included in the transaction data received in ACT 92.

[0110] If the completion flag is "0", the customer has requested to pay in their own currency and the payment is not completed. The processor 61 proceeds from ACT92 to ACT93. In ACT93, the processor 61 displays the first payment amount included in the transaction data on the touch panel 21. Then, in ACT94, the processor 61 waits for input of the payment amount by functioning as the payment acquisition means 611. Specifically, the processor 61 waits for inserted amount data to be sent from the automatic change dispenser 20. When inserted amount data equal to or greater than the first payment amount is received, the processor 61 proceeds from ACT94 to ACT95. In ACT95, the processor 61 subtracts the first payment amount from the amount inserted into the automatic change dispenser 20 to calculate the change amount.

[0111] In ACT96, the processor 61 checks whether the change amount is "0" or a positive value. If the change amount is a positive value, the processor 61 proceeds from ACT96 to ACT97. In ACT97, the processor 61 controls the change machine interface 66 to output change data that commands the automatic change machine 20 to dispense change. This control causes the change data to be sent from the change machine interface 66 to the automatic change machine 20, and the automatic change machine 20 dispenses coins equivalent to the change amount. The coins are the currency of the user's country.

[0112] When the processor 61 completes the processing of ACT97 or skips the processing of ACT97 because the change amount was "0", the processor 61 proceeds to ACT98. In ACT98, the processor 61 controls the printer 24 based on the product sales data included in the transaction data to produce a receipt. With this, the processor 61 ends the processing when it receives transaction data with a completion flag of "0".

[0113] On the other hand, if the completion flag is "1" in ACT92, the customer requested payment in a foreign currency, and the payment has been completed in the registration device 50. Therefore, the processor 61 proceeds from ACT92 to ACT99. In ACT99, similar to ACT28 in the first embodiment, the processor 61 displays an image on the touch panel 21 to notify the customer that depositing money into the automatic change dispenser is not possible. In ACT100, the processor 61 also obtains the change amount from the transaction data. Thereafter, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT96. The processor 61 then executes the processes of ACT96 to ACT98 in the same manner as described above. That is, if the change amount is a positive value, the processor 61 controls the change dispenser interface 66 to output change data that instructs the automatic change dispenser 20 to dispense change. Through this control, the change data is sent from the change dispenser interface 66 to the automatic change dispenser 20, and the automatic change dispenser 20 dispenses coins equivalent to the change amount. The coins are the currency of the home country. If the change amount is "0", processor 61 does not output change data to automatic change dispenser 20. Processor 61 then controls the issuance of a receipt. With this, processor 61 ends the processing for when it receives transaction data with a completion flag of "1".

[0114] In this way, like the payment device 10 of the first embodiment, the semi-self-service POS system 100 can handle payments not only in the first currency, which is the domestic currency, but also in the second currency, which is a foreign currency. Furthermore, if change is required for a payment in a foreign currency, the change is dispensed in the domestic currency from the automatic change dispenser 20 of the accounting machine 60. In this way, because there is no need to dispense change in a foreign currency, the automatic change dispenser 20 provided in the current accounting machine 60 can be used as is.

[0115] Although the embodiment of the settlement device has been described above, the embodiment is not limited to this.

[0116] For example, the ratio used by the first conversion means 113 or the first conversion means 513 to convert a payment amount calculated in units of a first currency into a payment amount in units of a second currency may be different from the ratio used by the second conversion means 116 or the second conversion means 516 to convert a payment amount calculated in units of the second currency into a payment amount in units of the first currency.

[0117] For example, the customer display 25 may be a touch panel, and the customer may input using soft keys on a currency selection screen.

[0118] The input device for inputting the amount may be the touch panel 21.

[0119] The measure to prevent the insertion of currency into the automatic change dispenser 20 is not limited to the measure of outputting a message to prevent the insertion of currency in the official language of the country or region where the foreign currency is circulated. For example, the banknote insertion slot and coin insertion slot of the automatic change dispenser 20 may be automatically blocked to physically prevent the insertion of currency.

[0120] 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. The inventions described in the original claims of this application are set forth below. [1] A payment device comprising: a ratio acquisition means for acquiring a ratio for exchanging a first currency into a second currency; a first calculation means for calculating a payment amount in units of the first currency; a first conversion means for converting the payment amount calculated in units of the first currency into a payment amount in units of the second currency using the ratio; a payment acquisition means for acquiring a payment amount for the payment amount; a second calculation means for calculating, if the payment amount is an amount in units of the second currency, a difference between the payment amount in units of the second currency and the payment amount; a second conversion means for converting the payment amount in units of the second currency into a payment amount in units of the first currency using the ratio and calculating the difference between the converted payment amount and the payment amount calculated in units of the first currency; and an output means for outputting the difference calculated by the second calculation means or the difference calculated by the second conversion means. [2] The payment device described in appendix [1], wherein the output means outputs the difference calculated by the second calculation means as the shortfall when the payment amount in the second currency is less than the settlement amount in the second currency, and outputs the difference calculated by the second conversion means as the change amount when the payment amount in the second currency is equal to or greater than the settlement amount in the second currency. [3] A payment device as described in appendix [2], further comprising an interface for connecting a change machine, wherein the output means outputs a command to the change machine to dispense the difference calculated by the second conversion means as change if the payment amount in the second currency is equal to or greater than the settlement amount in the second currency. [4] A payment device as described in appendix [3], further comprising an input device for inputting an amount, wherein the payment acquisition means acquires the amount input via the input device as the payment amount in units of the second currency, acquires the amount of coins inserted into the change machine as the payment amount in units of the first currency, and takes measures to prevent coins from being inserted into the change machine when acquiring the payment amount in units of the second currency. [5] A payment device as described in appendix [4], wherein the first currency is the local currency and the second currency is a foreign currency, and the measure to prevent the insertion of coins into the change dispenser includes a measure to output a message preventing the insertion of coins in the official language of the country or region in which the foreign currency is circulated. [6] A program for causing a computer of a payment device to function as a ratio acquisition means for acquiring a ratio for exchanging a first currency into a second currency, a first calculation means for calculating a payment amount in units of the first currency, a first conversion means for using the ratio to convert the payment amount calculated in units of the first currency into a payment amount in units of the second currency, a payment acquisition means for acquiring a payment amount for the payment amount, a second calculation means for calculating, if the payment amount is an amount in units of the second currency, the difference between the payment amount in units of the second currency and the payment amount, a second conversion means for using the ratio to convert the payment amount in units of the second currency into a payment amount in units of the first currency and calculate the difference between the converted payment amount and the payment amount calculated in units of the first currency, and an output means for outputting the difference calculated by the second calculation means or the difference calculated by the second conversion means. [Explanation of symbols]

[0121] 10...Payment device, 11,51,61...Processor, 12,52,62...Main memory, 13,53,63...Auxiliary storage device, 14,54,64...Clock, 15,55,65...Communication interface, 16,66...Change machine interface, 18,57...Output port, 19,58,68...System transmission path, 20...Automatic change machine, 21...Touch panel, 22...Keyboard, 23...Scanner, 24...Printer, 25...Customer display, 26...Drawer, 30...Rate table, 50...Registration machine, 6 0...accounting machine, 70...communication network, 100...semi-self-service POS system, 111,511...ratio acquisition means, 112,512...first calculation means, 113,513...first conversion means, 114,514,611...payment acquisition means, 115,515...second calculation means, 116,516...second conversion means, 117,612...third calculation means, 118...output means, 131...payment program, 517...first output means, 531...registration machine payment program, 613...second output means, 631...accounting machine payment program.

Claims

1. a ratio acquiring means for acquiring a ratio for exchanging the first currency into the second currency; a first calculation means for calculating a settlement amount in units of the first currency; a first conversion means for converting the payment amount calculated in units of the first currency into a payment amount in units of the second currency using the ratio; a payment acquisition means for acquiring a payment amount for a settlement amount, which acquires the amount input via an input device for inputting the amount as a payment amount in units of the second currency, acquires the amount of coins inserted into the change dispenser as a payment amount in units of the first currency, and takes measures to prevent coins from being inserted into the change dispenser when acquiring the payment amount in units of the second currency; a second calculation means for calculating a difference between the payment amount in the second currency and the settlement amount in the second currency when the payment amount is an amount in the second currency; a second conversion means for converting the payment amount in the second currency unit into the payment amount in the first currency unit using the ratio, and calculating the difference between the converted payment amount and the settlement amount calculated in the first currency unit; an output means for outputting the difference calculated by the second calculation means as a deficit amount when the payment amount in the second currency is less than the settlement amount in the second currency, and for outputting a command to a change dispenser to dispense the difference calculated by the second conversion means as a change amount when the payment amount in the second currency is equal to or greater than the settlement amount in the second currency; A payment device comprising:

2. the first currency is a national currency; the second currency is a foreign currency; 2. The settlement device according to claim 1, wherein the step of preventing the insertion of currency into the change dispenser includes a step of outputting a message in an official language of a country or region in which the foreign currency is circulated, to prevent the insertion of currency.

3. The computer of the payment device, a ratio obtaining means for obtaining a ratio for exchanging the first currency into the second currency; a first calculation means for calculating a settlement amount in units of the first currency; a first conversion means for converting the payment amount calculated in units of the first currency into a payment amount in units of the second currency using the ratio; a payment acquisition means for acquiring a payment amount for a settlement amount, which acquires the amount input via an input device for inputting the amount as a payment amount in units of the second currency, acquires the amount of coins inserted into the change dispenser as a payment amount in units of the first currency, and takes measures to prevent coins from being inserted into the change dispenser when acquiring the payment amount in units of the second currency; a second calculation means for calculating, when the payment amount is an amount in the second currency, a difference between the settlement amount in the second currency and the payment amount; a second conversion means for converting the payment amount in the second currency unit into the payment amount in the first currency unit using the ratio and calculating the difference between the converted payment amount and the settlement amount calculated in the first currency unit; and an output means for outputting the difference calculated by the second calculation means as a deficit amount when the payment amount in the second currency is less than the settlement amount in the second currency, and for outputting a command to a change dispenser to dispense the difference calculated by the second conversion means as a change amount when the payment amount in the second currency is equal to or greater than the settlement amount in the second currency; A program to function as a

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