Accounting device and program

Abstract

To provide a checkout apparatus and a program that can prevent reverse exchange.SOLUTION: The checkout apparatus includes: change calculation means for calculating a change amount based on a purchase amount of a commodity as well as coin amount information and bill amount information as output; first determination means for determining whether the amount of coins included in the coin amount information input from a coin change machine is equal to or more than an amount of a minimum amount bill; second determination means for determining whether the calculated change amount is equal to or more than the amount of the minimum amount bill; and change means for, if the first determination means determines that the amount of the coins is equal to or more than the amount of the minimum amount bill and the second determination means determines that the change amount is equal to or more than the amount of the minimum amount bill, outputting, to the coin change machine, a coin dispensing signal for dispensing, with coins, an amount not exceeding the amount of deposited coins and equal to or more than the amount of the minimum amount bill in the change amount.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an accounting device and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in stores such as supermarkets, discount stores, convenience stores, etc., for example, in relation to the sale of products, etc., a self-service type POS (Point of Sales) terminal (hereinafter referred to as "self-POS") has been introduced. In such a POS terminal, the customer performs the registration operation and accounting operation of the product by himself / herself. Also, in relation to the sale of products, etc., a semi-self-service type POS system (hereinafter referred to as "semi-self-POS") has been introduced. The semi-self-service type POS system has a product registration device and an accounting device. In the product registration device, an operator such as a store clerk performs the registration operation of the product, and in the accounting device, the customer himself / herself performs the accounting operation.

[0003] Such accounting devices in self-POS and semi-self-POS are provided with a change dispenser (coin change dispenser and bill change dispenser) inside the housing in preparation for cash accounting. When the customer performs cash accounting, the customer deposits cash into the change dispenser for payment in the self-POS or the accounting device, and when there is change, the change dispenser pays out the change to the customer.

[0004] By the way, banks sometimes charge a fee when exchanging banknotes for coins (for example, exchanging one 1000 yen bill for ten 100 yen coins) or coins for banknotes (for example, exchanging ten 100 yen coins for one 1000 yen bill; hereafter, the latter will be referred to as "reverse exchange"). Therefore, to avoid paying the fee, people who want to reverse exchange sometimes deposit a large amount of coins far exceeding the total price of their purchases when paying at a self-service or semi-self-service POS system and receive change in banknotes (for example, purchasing a 100 yen item, depositing 1100 yen worth of coins, and receiving 1000 yen in banknotes as change). Such reverse exchange using self-service or semi-self-service POS systems is not the intended use of these systems and can be problematic for businesses. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] The problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide an accounting device and program capable of preventing reverse currency exchange. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The accounting device of the embodiment is an accounting device in which the customer performs accounting operations related to the purchase of goods, and includes a coin change machine capable of storing deposited coins, dispensing the stored coins as change, and outputting coin amount information relating to the amount of coins deposited in a transaction; a banknote change machine capable of storing deposited banknotes, dispensing the stored banknotes as change, and outputting banknote amount information relating to the amount of banknotes deposited in a transaction; a change calculation means that calculates the amount of change based on the purchase price of the goods and the outputted coin amount information and banknote amount information; and input from the coin change machine. A first determination means for determining whether the amount of coins included in the coin amount information is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote; a second determination means for determining whether the calculated change amount is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote; and if the first determination means determines that the amount of coins is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, and the second determination means determines that the change amount is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, a change dispensing means for outputting a coin dispensing signal to the coin change machine for an amount of the change amount that does not exceed the amount of coins deposited, but is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote. If the first determination means determines that the amount of coins indicated by the coin amount information is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, and the second determination means determines that the amount of change is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, the confirmation means confirms with the customer whether it is appropriate to pay out an amount equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote as change in coins, Equipped with The change dispensing means outputs the coin dispensing signal when it confirms that it will dispense change in coins equal to or greater than the amount of the minimum denomination banknote. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of a self-service POS terminal according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a self-service POS terminal. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a coin change machine. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a banknote change dispenser. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of a self-service POS terminal. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the control process flow of a self-service POS terminal. [Figure 7]Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of cash payment processing at a self-service POS terminal. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of a display on a self-service POS terminal. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows other examples of displays on a self-service POS terminal. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows yet another example of the display on a self-service POS terminal. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows another example of the display on a self-service POS terminal. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the control process flow of a coin change machine. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the control process flow of a banknote change dispenser. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The accounting device and program according to the embodiment will be described below with reference to the attached drawings. In the embodiment, a self-service POS (Point of Sales) terminal in which the customer performs product sales and payment operations will be described as an example of an accounting device. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0009] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of a self-service POS terminal 1 according to an embodiment. The self-service POS terminal 1 is a product sales data processing device comprising a registration unit that reads code symbols such as barcodes attached to products to be purchased, and an accounting unit that performs accounting processing based on product information identified by the read code symbols. Both the product registration operation in the registration unit and the accounting operation in the accounting unit are performed by the customer themselves. The product registration operation refers to the operation of having the registration unit optically read or image the code symbol. The accounting operation is the operation for the self-service POS terminal 1 to perform accounting processing for the products for which the product registration operation has been performed.

[0010] Self-service POS terminal 1 performs product registration processing based on the product registration operation performed by the customer. Self-service POS terminal 1 also performs accounting processing based on the accounting operation performed by the customer.

[0011] Here, product registration processing refers to the process of displaying product information such as the product name and price based on the product code obtained from the read code symbol, and storing this product information in the product information unit 131 (see Figure 2). Accounting processing refers to the process of displaying the total amount and change related to the transaction with the customer based on the product information of the registered product, and performing settlement.

[0012] As shown in Figure 1, the self-service POS terminal 1 comprises a first enclosure 41 and a second enclosure 42. The first enclosure 41 houses a coin change dispenser 271 (see Figure 2) and a banknote change dispenser 272 (see Figure 2) inside. The coin change dispenser 271 deposits coins inserted by the customer and stores them by denomination. The coin change dispenser 271 also uses the stored coins to dispense coins as change to the customer. When coins are deposited, the coin change dispenser 271 outputs information on the total amount of coins deposited and the number of coins of each denomination (collectively referred to as "coin amount information"). The banknote change dispenser 272 deposits banknotes inserted by the customer and stores them by denomination. The banknote change dispenser 272 also uses the stored banknotes to dispense banknotes as change to the customer. Furthermore, when banknotes are deposited, the banknote change machine 272 outputs information about the total amount of deposited banknotes and the number of banknotes of each denomination (collectively referred to as "banknote amount information").

[0013] The first housing 41 is equipped with a deposit section 2711 (coin slot) for depositing coins into the coin change machine 271. The first housing 41 is also equipped with a coin dispensing port 273 for dispensing coin change and a coin tray 280 for receiving the dispensed coins. The coin dispensing port 273 and coin tray 280 are part of the coin change machine 271 and are exposed to the outside of the first housing 41 through an opening 278. The first housing 41 is also equipped with a banknote deposit port 274 for accepting banknotes and a banknote dispensing port 275 for dispensing banknote change.

[0014] The first housing 41 also includes a first door 411 that can be opened and closed, and a second door 412. The first door 411 rotates in the vertical direction around the hinge portion 411a. The second door 412 rotates in the horizontal direction around the hinge portion 412a. The second door 412 is interfered with by the first door 411. To open the second door 412, first, the first door 411 needs to be opened upward. When both the first door 411 and the second door 412 are in the closed state, only the second door 412 cannot be opened. When the first door 411 rotates upward, the upper side inside the first housing 41 is opened, and the coin change machine 271 and the bill change machine 272 are exposed.

[0015] In addition, the first housing 41 includes a mounting table 25 and a mounting table 26 on the left and right sides of the side surface. The mounting table 25 has a first weighing unit 251. The mounting table 26 has a second weighing unit 261.

[0016] The mounting table 25 is a table for placing a basket containing goods to be purchased. The first weighing unit 251 weighs the total weight of the basket placed on the mounting table 25 and the goods in the basket. The mounting table 26 is a table for setting a bag into which the goods taken out from the mounting table 25 are put. The second weighing unit 261 weighs the total weight of the bag set on the mounting table 26 and the goods in the bag.

[0017] In addition, the mounting table 26 includes two support columns 43 extending upward from the upper surface of the mounting table 26, a temporary placement table 44 formed at the upper part of the support columns 43, and two extension rods 45. The extension rod 45 is a rod for setting a bag (not shown) into which the goods whose product codes have been read by the reading unit 23 (see FIG. 2) are put. The bag is opened with the handle of the bag hooked on the extension rod 45 to facilitate the input of goods. Also, the temporary placement table 44 is a table for temporarily placing goods that are easily damaged (such as tofu and eggs) among the goods whose product codes have been read by the reading unit 23 (see FIG. 5). The goods placed on the temporary placement table 44 are finally put into the bag.

[0018] The second housing 42 is provided above the first housing 41. The second housing 42 houses a reading unit 23 and a card unit 28 (both shown in FIG. 2) on the right side in FIG. 1. Also, the second housing 42 houses a printer 24 (shown in FIG. 2) on the left side in FIG. 1. The reading unit 23 reads code symbols such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes attached to products, for example, optically or by imaging. The card unit 28 reads customer identification information from, for example, an inserted credit card. When settling accounts with a credit card, the self-POS terminal 1 executes settlement processing based on the customer identification information read by the card unit 28. The printer 24 prints product information and accounting information of the products for which the self-POS terminal 1 has performed product registration processing on receipt paper to issue a receipt.

[0019] Also, the second housing 42 includes two third doors 421 that rotate between an open position and a closed position. The third door 421 rotates in a butterfly fashion about a hinge portion 421a. In the open state where the third door 421 is in the open position, the second housing 42 is opened, and the reading unit 23, the printer 24, and the card unit 28 are in an exposed state. Also, in the closed state where the third door 421 is in the closed position, the inside of the second housing 42 is closed, and the reading unit 23, the printer 24, and the card unit 28 are housed inside the second housing 42.

[0020] Also, the third door 421 includes a reading window 4212 of the reading unit 23, an issuing port 421 to discharge a receipt issued by the printer 24, and an insertion port 4213 for inserting a card into the card unit 28.

[0021] Also, the second housing 42 includes a display unit 22 at the top. The display unit 22 displays product information of the products for which product registration processing has been performed in accordance with a product registration operation by the customer. Also, the display unit 22 displays accounting information when accounting processing has been performed in accordance with an accounting operation by the customer. The display unit 22 includes a touch panel 21 on the surface. The touch panel 21 serves as a key. By operating the touch panel 21 at a position corresponding to various keys displayed on the display unit 22, the corresponding key is operated.

[0022] Furthermore, the second housing 42 is equipped with a cylindrical pole 46 that extends upward from the rear. The upper tip of the pole 46 is equipped with a light-emitting unit 29. The light-emitting unit 29 illuminates when a customer performs the operation to call an attendant.

[0023] The customer takes an item from the basket placed on the tray 25, passes it in front of the reading window 4212, and has the reading unit 23 read the code symbol attached to the item. The customer then places the item into a bag placed on the tray 26. The self-service POS terminal 1 determines whether the customer is operating correctly by checking whether the weight change before and after the item is taken out by the first weighing unit 251 matches the weight change before and after the item is placed in by the second weighing unit 261. If the weight changes match, the self-service POS terminal 1 executes the item registration process.

[0024] Next, the hardware configuration of the self-service POS terminal 1 will be described. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the self-service POS terminal 1. As shown in Figure 2, the self-service POS terminal 1 is equipped with a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, memory unit 14, etc. The CPU 11 is an example of a processor and is the main control unit. The ROM 12 stores various programs. The RAM 13 loads various data. The memory unit 14 stores various programs. The CPU 11, ROM 12, RAM 13, and memory unit 14 are connected to each other via a data bus 15. The CPU 11, ROM 12, and RAM 13 constitute the control unit 100. That is, the control unit 100 executes the control processing described later by operating according to the control programs stored in the ROM 12 and memory unit 14 and loaded into the RAM 13.

[0025] RAM13 comprises a product information unit 131 and a deposit amount storage unit 132. The product information unit 131 stores product information (product code, product name, product price, etc.) of products that have been registered. The deposit amount storage unit 132 receives and stores information (coin amount information) from the coin change machine 271 regarding the number of coins of each denomination and the amount deposited into the coin change machine 271 in the transaction. The deposit amount storage unit 132 also receives and stores information (banknote amount information) from the banknote change machine 272 regarding the number of banknotes of each denomination and the amount deposited into the banknote change machine 272 in the transaction.

[0026] The memory unit 14 is composed of non-volatile memory such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off, and includes a control program unit 141 that stores a control program and a reference denomination unit 142. The reference denomination unit 142 stores the amount of coins to be changed to the smallest denomination coin to be dispensed as change. For example, if the 10 yen coin is stored as the smallest denomination coin, and the coins deposited into the coin change machine 271 include coins of a smaller denomination than a 10 yen coin (5 yen coins and 1 yen coins), when dispensing change, if the amount of the deposited coins of a smaller denomination is sufficient to dispense coins of a smaller denomination, the smaller coins will be dispensed as coins of a denomination of 10 yen or more. For example, if the deposited coins include two 5-yen coins and ten 1-yen coins, when giving change, the two 5-yen coins will be exchanged for a 10-yen coin, resulting in three 10-yen coins being given. However, if the amount of the deposited small denomination coins is less than the value of the standard coins, those small denomination coins will be given as change as they are. For example, if one 5-yen coin and three 1-yen coins are deposited, the total amount is 8 yen, which cannot be exchanged for a 10-yen coin. Therefore, one 5-yen coin and three 1-yen coins will be given as change.

[0027] Furthermore, the control unit 100 is connected to the touch panel 21, display unit 22, reading unit 23, printer 24, coin change machine 271, banknote change machine 272, and card unit 28 via the data bus 15 and controller 16, enabling communication between them.

[0028] The touch panel 21 is equipped with keys such as a start key 211, a cash / deposit key 213, and other closing keys 214, which correspond to the keys displayed on the display unit 22. The start key 211 is operated by the customer when starting the sales registration operation for a product. The cash / deposit key 213 is operated by the customer when finishing the product registration operation for a product and moving on to the cash payment accounting process. When the cash / deposit key 213 is operated, the self-service POS terminal 1 starts the cash accounting process.

[0029] The display unit 22 is formed by, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and displays information to the customer. The reading unit 23 is composed of, for example, a camera and reads the code symbol attached to the product. The printer 24 is composed of, for example, a thermal printer and prints product information and accounting information for the processed products and issues a receipt. The card unit 28 reads information from, for example, a credit card.

[0030] Furthermore, the control unit 100 is connected to the communication unit 36 ​​via the data bus 15. The communication unit 36 ​​is connected to other self-service POS terminals 1 and store servers (not shown) via the communication line NT.

[0031] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the coin change machine 271. In Figure 3, the coin change machine 271 includes a CPU 51, ROM 52, RAM 53, memory unit 54, etc. The CPU 51 is an example of a processor and is the main control unit. The ROM 52 stores various programs. The RAM 53 loads various data. The memory unit 54 stores various programs. The CPU 51, ROM 52, RAM 53, and memory unit 54 are connected to each other via a data bus 55. The CPU 51, ROM 52, and RAM 53 constitute the control unit 500. That is, the control unit 500 executes the control processing described later by operating according to the control programs stored in the ROM 52 and memory unit 54 and loaded into the RAM 53.

[0032] The memory unit 54 is composed of non-volatile memory such as an HDD or flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off, and includes a control program unit 541 that stores the control program.

[0033] Furthermore, the control unit 500 is connected to the deposit motor 57, the dispensing motor 58, and the denomination discrimination sensor 62 via the data bus 55 and the controller 56. The deposit motor 57 is a motor that transports the coins deposited into the deposit section 2711 and stores them in the storage section (not shown). The dispensing motor 58 is a motor that transports the coins stored in the storage section to the coin dispensing port 273 and dispenses them. The denomination discrimination sensor 62 is a sensor that discriminates the denomination of the deposited coins and counts the number of coins.

[0034] Furthermore, the control unit 500 is connected to the communication unit 65 via the data bus 55. The communication unit 65 is connected to the controller 16 via the communication cable NC.

[0035] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the banknote change dispenser 272. In Figure 4, the banknote change dispenser 272 includes a CPU 71, ROM 72, RAM 73, memory unit 74, etc. The CPU 71 is an example of a processor and is the main control unit. The ROM 72 stores various programs. The RAM 73 loads various data. The memory unit 74 stores various programs. The CPU 71, ROM 72, RAM 73, and memory unit 74 are connected to each other via a data bus 75. The CPU 71, ROM 72, and RAM 73 constitute the control unit 700. That is, the control unit 700 executes the control processing described later by operating according to the control programs stored in the ROM 72 and memory unit 74 and loaded into the RAM 73.

[0036] The memory unit 74 is composed of non-volatile memory such as an HDD or flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off, and includes a control program unit 741 that stores the control program.

[0037] Furthermore, the control unit 700 is connected to the deposit motor 77, the dispensing motor 78, and the denomination discrimination sensor 79 via the data bus 75 and the controller 76. The deposit motor 77 is a motor for transporting banknotes deposited into the banknote deposit slot 274 and storing them in the storage unit (not shown). The dispensing motor 78 is a motor for transporting coins stored in the storage unit to the banknote dispensing port 275 and dispensing them. The denomination discrimination sensor 79 is a sensor that discriminates the denomination of deposited banknotes and counts the number of banknotes.

[0038] Furthermore, the control unit 500 is connected to the communication unit 80 via the data bus 75. The communication unit 80 is connected to the controller 16 via the communication cable NC.

[0039] From here, the functional configuration of the self-service POS terminal 1 will be explained. Figure 5 is a functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of the self-service POS terminal 1. The control unit 100 functions as a change calculation means 101, a first determination means 102, a second determination means 103, a payout form determination means 104, a payout denomination determination means 105, a confirmation means 106, and a change dispensing means 107, according to the control program stored in the ROM 12 and the control program unit 141 of the memory unit 14.

[0040] The change calculation means 101 calculates the amount of change in a single transaction based on the purchase price of the goods, coin amount information indicating the amount of coins deposited into the coin change machine 271, and banknote amount information indicating the amount of banknotes deposited into the banknote change machine 272. Specifically, the change calculation means 101 calculates the amount of change based on the purchase price of the goods, the coin amount information from the coin amount information received from the coin change machine 271, which includes the number of coins of each denomination and the amount of coins deposited into the coin change machine 271, and the banknote amount information from the banknote amount information received from the banknote change machine 272, which includes the number of banknotes of each denomination and the amount of banknotes deposited into the banknote change machine 272.

[0041] The first determination means 102 determines whether the amount of coins indicated by the coin amount information received from the coin change machine 271 (i.e., the amount of coins deposited into the coin change machine 271) is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote. For example, in Japan, the smallest denomination banknote is the 1,000 yen note, which is the smallest amount of banknote issued. Therefore, the first determination means 102 determines whether the amount of coins indicated by the coin amount information received from the coin change machine 271 is 1,000 yen or more.

[0042] The second determination means 103 determines whether the amount of change calculated by the change calculation means 101 is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote. In this embodiment, the second determination means 103 determines whether the amount of change calculated by the change calculation means 101 is equal to or greater than 1,000 yen, which is the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, a 1,000 yen bill.

[0043] The payment method determination means 104 determines the payment method for the change amount calculated by the change calculation means 101 (the amount of change dispensed in coins by the coin change machine 270 and the amount of change dispensed in banknotes by the banknote change machine 272) when the first determination means 102 determines that the amount of coins indicated by the coin amount information received from the coin change machine 271 is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, and the second determination means 103 determines that the amount of change calculated by the change calculation means 101 is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote. Specifically, the payment method determination means 104 determines, when the first determination means 102 determines that the amount of coins indicated by the coin amount information received from the coin change machine 271 is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, and the second determination means 103 determines that the amount of change calculated by the change calculation means 101 is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, then, if the amount of change is less than or equal to the amount deposited into the coin change machine 271, it decides to pay out the entire amount in coins. Furthermore, the payment method determination means 104 determines, if the first determination means 102 determines that the amount of coins indicated by the coin amount information received from the coin change machine 271 is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, and the second determination means 103 determines that the amount of change calculated by the change calculation means 101 is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, and if the amount of change exceeds the amount deposited into the coin change machine 271, then the coin change machine 270 will dispense change in coins until it is equal to or less than the amount deposited into the coin change machine 271, and the remaining change will be dispensed in coins, and the coin change machine 270 will dispense change in coins, and the banknote change machine 272 will dispense change in banknotes (dispensing method in example (5) which will be explained later). In other words, the payment method determination means 104 determines the amount to be dispensed from the coin change machine 271, with the amount of coins deposited into the coin change machine 271 as the upper limit.

[0044] The payout denomination determination means 105 determines the denomination of change to be paid out based on whether or not there are coins of a lower value than the standard denomination among the deposited coins. Specifically, the payout denomination determination means 105 compares the standard amount of coins stored in the standard denomination unit 142 and, if coins of a lower value than the standard amount are deposited into the coin change machine 271, it decides to change the lower-value coins into coins of a value equal to or greater than the standard amount and pay them out. For example, if 10 100-yen coins and 10 10-yen coins are deposited into the coin change machine 271 and the standard amount is 100 yen, it decides to change the 10 10-yen coins into 1 100-yen coin and pay out 11 100-yen coins as change. Furthermore, for example, if ten 100-yen coins and eleven 10-yen coins are deposited into the coin change machine 271 and the base amount is 100 yen, the machine decides to change the ten 10-yen coins into one 100-yen coin and dispense eleven 100-yen coins and one 10-yen coin as change. The dispensing denomination determination means 105 compares the base amount of coins stored in the base denomination unit 142 and decides to dispense the coins without changing the type of coins if no coins of a smaller value than the base amount have been deposited into the coin change machine 271.

[0045] The confirmation means 106, when the first determination means 102 determines that the amount of coins indicated by the coin amount information is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, and the second determination means 103 determines that the amount of change is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, confirms with the customer whether it is acceptable to dispense an amount equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote as change in coins. Specifically, when the confirmation means 106 determines that the amount of coins indicated by the coin amount information is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, and the second determination means 103 determines that the amount of change is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, it displays on the display unit 22 whether it is acceptable to dispense an amount equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote as change in coins.

[0046] In this embodiment, the change dispensing means 107, when the first determination means 102 determines that the amount of coins is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, and the second determination means 103 determines that the amount of change is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, outputs a coin dispensing signal to the coin change machine 271 to dispense an amount of change equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote in coins. Specifically, the change dispensing means 107 determines, by the first determination means 102, that the amount of coins is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, and by the second determination means 103, that the change amount is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, then specifies the denomination determined by the payment method determination means 104 and the dispensing denomination determination means 105, and outputs a coin dispensing signal to the coin change dispenser 271 to dispense an amount of change equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote in coins.

[0047] Here, the coin dispensing signal output by the change dispensing mechanism 107 is illustrated in the following example. (1) When a 100 yen item is purchased and 10 100 yen coins and 10 10 yen coins (total amount of coins deposited is 1100 yen, which is equal to or greater than the minimum denomination banknote of 1000 yen) are deposited into the coin change machine 271, the price of the item is settled with 100 yen coins, and the change amount is 1000 yen (the change amount is equal to or greater than the amount of the minimum denomination banknote). In this case, since the change amount does not exceed the amount of coins deposited, the change dispensing device 107 dispenses the entire change amount of 1000 yen in coins. That is, since the amount of coins deposited, 1100 yen, is equal to or greater than one minimum denomination banknote (1000 yen) and less than or equal to the amount deposited into the coin change machine 271, a coin dispensing signal is output to dispense the entire change amount in coins (i.e., a coin dispensing signal is output to dispense an amount equal to or greater than the amount of the minimum denomination banknote in coins). The change dispensing mechanism 107 dispenses change in coins of a denomination equal to or greater than the standard denomination (for example, 100 yen) when the coins are of a denomination equal to or greater than the standard denomination. Therefore, it converts the deposited 10 10 yen coins into one 100 yen coin and outputs a coin dispensing signal to dispense 10 100 yen coins. (2) When a customer purchases an item for 1,100 yen and deposits one 1,000 yen bill, ten 100 yen coins, and ten 10 yen coins (totaling 1,100 yen in coins, which is equal to or greater than the smallest denomination bill, the 1,000 yen bill) into the coin change machine 271, the amount of the item is settled with the 1,000 yen bill and one 100 yen coin, and the change is 1,000 yen (the change is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination bill). In this case, since the change does not exceed the amount of coins deposited, the change dispensing device 107 dispenses 1,000 yen in coins. In other words, since the amount deposited in coins, 1,100 yen, is greater than or equal to one minimum denomination banknote (1,000 yen bill) and less than or equal to the amount deposited into the coin change machine 271, it outputs a coin dispensing signal to dispense the entire amount of change in coins (i.e., a coin dispensing signal that dispenses an amount equal to or greater than the amount of the minimum denomination banknote out of the change amount in coins). The change dispensing means 107 dispenses change in coins of a denomination equal to or greater than the standard denomination (for example, 100 yen) for coins of a standard denomination or greater, so it converts the deposited 10 10 yen coins into one 100 yen coin and outputs a coin dispensing signal to dispense 10 100 yen coins. (3) When a customer purchases an item for 1,100 yen and deposits two 1,000 yen bills, ten 100 yen coins, and ten 10 yen coins (totaling 1,100 yen in coins, which is greater than or equal to the smallest denomination bill, the 1,000 yen bill) into the coin change machine 271, the price of the item is settled using the 1,000 yen bills and 100 yen coins, and the change is 2,000 yen (the change is greater than or equal to the smallest denomination bill). In this case, since the change exceeds the amount of coins deposited, the change dispensing device 107 dispenses 1,000 yen in bills and the remaining 1,000 yen in coins. In other words, the coin dispenser 271 outputs a coin dispensing signal that dispenses coins for the amount of change equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, up to the amount of the deposit that is less than or equal to the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, and the remaining amount is dispensed in coins (i.e., a coin dispensing signal that dispenses coins for the amount of change equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote). The change dispensing means 107 dispenses coins of a denomination equal to or greater than the standard denomination (for example, 100 yen) for coins of a denomination less than the standard denomination, so it converts the deposited 10 10 yen coins into 100 yen coins and outputs a coin dispensing signal that dispenses 10 100 yen coins. (4) When a customer purchases an item for 2,000 yen and deposits one 5,000 yen bill, ten 100 yen coins, and ten 10 yen coins (totaling 1,100 yen in coins, which is greater than or equal to the smallest denomination bill, a 1,000 yen bill) into the coin change machine 271, the customer pays for the item with a 5,000 yen bill, and the change is 4,100 yen (the change is greater than or equal to the smallest denomination bill). In this case, since the change exceeds the amount of coins deposited, the change dispensing device 107 dispenses 3,000 yen (5,000 yen - 2,000 yen) of the 4,100 yen change in bills and the remaining 1,100 yen in coins. In other words, the coin dispenser 271 outputs a coin dispensing signal that dispenses coins for the amount of change equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, up to the amount of the deposit that is less than or equal to the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, and the remaining amount is dispensed in coins (i.e., a coin dispensing signal that dispenses coins for the amount of change equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote). The change dispensing means 107 dispenses change in coins of a denomination equal to or greater than the standard denomination (for example, 100 yen), so it converts the deposited 10 yen coins into 100 yen coins and outputs a coin dispensing signal that dispenses 11 100 yen coins. (5) When a customer purchases an item for 2,000 yen and deposits one 5,000 yen bill, 20 100 yen coins, and 10 10 yen coins (totaling 2,100 yen in coins, which is greater than or equal to the smallest denomination bill, a 1,000 yen bill) into the coin change machine 271, the customer pays for the item with a 5,000 yen bill, and the change is 5,100 yen (the change is greater than or equal to the smallest denomination bill). In this case, since the change is greater than the amount of coins deposited, the change dispensing device 107 dispenses 3,000 yen (5,000 yen - 2,000 yen) of the 5,100 yen change in bills and the remaining 2,100 yen in coins. In other words, the coin dispenser 271 outputs a coin dispensing signal that dispenses banknotes until the amount of change is less than or equal to the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, and the rest is dispensed in coins (i.e., a coin dispensing signal that dispenses in coins any amount of change equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote). The change dispensing means 107 dispenses change in coins of a denomination equal to or greater than the standard denomination (for example, 100 yen) for coins of a standard denomination or greater, so it converts the 10 10 yen coins that were deposited into the machine into 100 yen coins and outputs a coin dispensing signal that dispenses 21 100 yen coins. (6) When a customer purchases an item for 6,000 yen and deposits one 5,000 yen bill, 20 100 yen coins, and 10 10 yen coins (totaling 2,100 yen in coins, which is greater than or equal to the smallest denomination bill, a 1,000 yen bill) into the coin change machine 271, the customer pays for the item with the 5,000 yen bill and 10 100 yen coins, and the change is 1,100 yen (the change is greater than or equal to the amount of the smallest denomination bill). In this case, the change is not greater than the amount of coins deposited into the coin change machine 271, so the change dispensing device 107 dispenses the entire change of 1,100 yen in coins. In other words, the amount deposited in coins, 2100 yen, is equivalent to more than two minimum denomination banknotes (1000 yen bills), but the change amount is 1100 yen. Therefore, a coin dispensing signal is output to dispense the change equivalent to one minimum denomination banknote plus the remainder in coins (i.e., a coin dispensing signal that dispenses an amount equal to or greater than the amount of the minimum denomination banknote in the change amount). The change dispensing device 107 dispenses change in coins of a denomination equal to or greater than the standard denomination (e.g., 100 yen) for coins of a denomination less than the standard denomination. Therefore, the deposited 10 10 yen coins are changed into 100 yen coins, and a coin dispensing signal is output to dispense 11 100 yen coins.

[0048] Thus, if the first determination means 102 determines that the amount of coins indicated by the coin amount information received from the coin change machine 271 (i.e., the amount of coins deposited into the coin change machine 271) is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, and the second determination means 103 determines that the amount of change calculated by the change calculation means 101 is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, the dispensing form determination means 104 determines the amount to be dispensed by the coin change machine 271 and the banknote change machine 272, the dispensing denomination determination means 105 determines the denomination to be dispensed, and the change means 107 outputs a coin dispensing signal to the coin change machine 271, up to the amount of coins deposited into the coin change machine 271 as the upper limit, dispensing an amount of change equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote in coins.

[0049] Next, we will explain the control of the self-service POS terminal 1. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of the control process for the self-service POS terminal 1. As shown in Figure 6, the control unit 100 of the self-service POS terminal 1 reads the code symbol attached to the product and determines whether it has obtained a product code that identifies the product (S11). If it determines that a product code has been obtained (Yes in S11), the control unit 100 executes the product registration process for the product based on the obtained product code (S12). Then the control unit 100 returns to S11. If it determines that a product code has not been obtained (No in S11), the control unit 100 determines whether the deposit / cash total key 213 has been operated (S13). If it determines that the deposit / cash total key 213 has been operated (Yes in S13), the control unit 100 executes the cash accounting process (S14).

[0050] Here, we will explain the cash accounting process performed in S14. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of cash accounting at the self-service POS terminal 1. As shown in Figure 7, the control unit 100 calculates the total amount of products registered in the transaction based on the product information stored in the product information unit 131 and displays it on the display unit 22 (S21).

[0051] Next, the control unit 100 determines whether it has received coin amount information (in the embodiment, information relating to the number of coins of each denomination and the amount of coins deposited into the coin change machine 271) and banknote amount information (in the embodiment, information relating to the number of banknotes of each denomination and the amount of banknotes deposited into the banknote change machine 272) from the coin change machine 271 and the banknote change machine 272 (S22). If only coins are deposited into the coin change machine 271, the control unit 100 receives coin amount information from the coin change machine 271. If only banknotes are deposited into the banknote change machine 272, the control unit 100 receives banknote amount information from the banknote change machine 272. If coins are deposited into the coin change machine 271 and banknotes are deposited into the banknote change machine 272, the control unit 100 receives coin amount information from the coin change machine 271 and banknote amount information from the banknote change machine 272.

[0052] The control unit 100 waits until it receives the information (No in S22), and if it determines that it has received the coin amount information and / or banknote amount information (hereinafter, coin amount information and banknote amount information are collectively referred to as "amount information") (Yes in S22), the control unit 100 stores the received amount information in the deposit amount storage unit 132 (S23). The control unit 100 then displays the stored amount information (the total amount of the deposited coins and banknotes) and the total amount of the registered products on the display unit 22 (S24).

[0053] Next, the control unit 100 determines in S22 whether it has received coin amount information from the coin change machine 271 (S25). If it has not received coin amount information from the coin change machine 271 (i.e., it has only received banknote amount information from the banknote change machine 272) (No. in S25), it calculates the change amount based on the banknote amount information displayed in S24, which is the payment amount (the amount deposited into the banknote change machine 272), and the total price of the goods (S26). The control unit 100 then displays the total amount, payment amount, and change amount on the display unit 22 (S27).

[0054] Figure 8 shows an example of the display image shown on the display unit 22 in S26. As shown in Figure 8, the control unit 100 displays the total price of the goods, the total amount of money deposited, and the change amount on the display unit 22. The customer looks at this display Ga to confirm the total price of the purchased goods, the amount paid, and the change amount.

[0055] Returning to the explanation of Figure 7, the control unit 100 then transmits (outputs) a banknote dispensing signal to the banknote change machine 272, which includes information on the banknote portion of the calculated change, and a coin dispensing signal to the coin change machine 271, which includes information on the coin portion of the change (S28). In the example of Figure 8, the change is 1000 yen, so the control unit 100 transmits a banknote dispensing signal to the banknote change machine 272 to dispense 1000 yen, and does not transmit a coin dispensing signal to the coin change machine 271. The control unit 100 then terminates processing.

[0056] Furthermore, if it is determined in S25 that coin amount information has been received from the coin change machine 271 (including the case where banknote amount information has been received from the banknote change machine 272; in this embodiment, it will be described below assuming that both coin amount information and banknote amount information have been received) (Yes in S25), the change calculation means 101 calculates the change amount based on the sum of the coin amount information (amount deposited into the coin change machine 271) and banknote amount information (amount deposited into the banknote change machine 272) displayed in S24, which is the payment amount, and the total amount of the goods (S31).

[0057] Next, the first determination means 102 determines whether the amount of coins indicated by the coin amount information received from the coin change machine 271 (i.e., the amount of coins deposited into the coin change machine 271) is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote (in this embodiment, a 1000 yen bill) (in this embodiment, 1000 yen) (S32). If it is determined that the amount of coins indicated by the coin amount information received from the coin change machine 271 is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote (Yes in S32), then the second determination means 103 determines whether the amount of change calculated by the change calculation means 101 is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote (in this embodiment, a 1000 yen bill) (in this embodiment, 1000 yen) (S33).

[0058] If the change calculation means 101 determines that the amount of change is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote (Yes in S33), the dispensing method determination means 104 determines, based on the calculated amount of change, the amount of coins deposited into the coin change machine 271, and the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, the amount of change to be dispensed by the coin change machine 271 and the amount to be dispensed by the banknote change machine 272 (S34).

[0059] Next, the control unit 100 determines, based on the information of the denominations of the coins included in the received coin amount information, whether the coins deposited into the coin change machine 271 include coins of a smaller denomination than the standard denomination stored in the standard denomination unit 142 (for example, 100 yen in this embodiment) (S35).

[0060] If it is determined that no coins of a lower denomination than the standard denomination are included (No. in S35), the payout denomination determination means 105 determines the denominations of coins and banknotes to be paid out from the change amount calculated in S31 (S36). That is, the payout denomination determination means 105 decides to pay out the change from the coin change machine 271 in the denominations of coins included in the received coin amount information (the denominations and number of coins deposited into the coin change machine 271) (S36). For example, if the number information for each denomination included in the coin amount information is 10 100-yen coins and 10 10-yen coins, the number of coins for each denomination is determined to pay out the change in the same denominations. The payout denomination determination means 105 then decides to pay out the remaining change in banknotes (S36).

[0061] Furthermore, if it is determined that the payout includes coins of a lower denomination than the standard denomination (Yes in S35), the payout denomination determination means 105 determines the denomination and number of coins to be paid out in the same manner as in S36 (S37). In this case, if the coins of a lower denomination than the standard denomination can be paid with coins of the standard denomination (for example, 10 ten-yen coins), the payout denomination determination means 105 determines the number of coins of each denomination to be paid out as change by changing the coins of the lower denomination into coins of the standard denomination (S37). Note that, for example, if there are 9 ten-yen coins, they cannot be changed to the standard denomination, so the payout denomination determination means 105 determines the number of coins of each denomination to be paid out as change using the coins of the lower denomination.

[0062] After processing in S36 or S37, the confirmation means 106 displays a confirmation screen on the display unit 22 to ask the customer whether it is acceptable to dispense change in coins equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote (S38).

[0063] Figure 9 shows an example of the confirmation screen displayed in S38. As shown in Figure 9, the confirmation means 106 displays on the display unit 22 the total price of the goods, the total amount of money deposited, and the amount of change, a message Gb confirming that the change will be paid out in many coins, and operable buttons Gc (in this embodiment, "yes" and "no" buttons Gc) for the customer to indicate whether they agree or disagree with message Gb. The customer looks at this display Ga to confirm the total price of the purchased goods, the amount of money deposited, and the amount of change, looks at message Gb to confirm that the change will be paid out in many coins, and if they agree, they operate the "yes" button, and if they disagree, they operate the "no" button Gc to indicate whether they agree or disagree with the payment of many coins.

[0064] Figure 10 shows another example of the confirmation screen displayed in S38. As shown in Figure 10, the confirmation means 106 displays a display Ga, a message Gb, and a button Gc on the display unit 22. The confirmation means 106 also displays a display Gd on the display unit 22 indicating the number of coins of each denomination to be dispensed as change (in this embodiment, 9 100-yen coins and 10 10-yen coins). The customer looks at the display Ga to confirm the total amount of the purchased goods, the amount paid, and the amount of change, looks at the message Gb to confirm that a large amount of change will be dispensed in coins, looks at the display Gd to confirm the number of coins of each denomination to be dispensed, and then operates the "Yes" button if they agree, or the "No" button Gc if they do not agree, to indicate whether they approve or disapprove of receiving a large amount of change in coins.

[0065] Returning to the explanation of Figure 7, the control unit 100 determines whether the "Yes" button has been pressed and whether the customer has agreed to receive a large amount of change in coins (S39). If it is determined that the customer has agreed to receive a large amount of change in coins (in this embodiment, if the "Yes" button Gc has been pressed) (Yes in S39), the change dispensing means 107 transmits a coin dispensing signal to the coin change machine 271, which includes the amount of change and the number of coins of each denomination determined in S34, S36, or S37 (S28). The change dispensing means 107 also transmits a banknote dispensing signal to the banknote change machine 271, which includes information on the amount of change to be dispensed in banknotes (S28).

[0066] Furthermore, if it is determined that consent has not been obtained to dispense change in a large number of coins (in this embodiment, if the "No" button Gc is pressed) (No in S39), the control unit 100 sends a refund signal to return the coins deposited into the coin change machine 271 and displays a message on the display unit 22 prompting a normal deposit that is not a large number of coins (S40). The control unit 100 then terminates the process.

[0067] Furthermore, in S32, if the first determination means 102 determines that the amount of coins indicated by the coin amount information received from the coin change machine 271 is not equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote (in this embodiment, a 1,000 yen banknote) (No. in S32), and in S33, if the second determination means 103 determines that the amount of change calculated by the change calculation means 101 is not equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote (No. in S33), the control unit 100 executes the process in S26.

[0068] It should be noted that displaying the message Gb and display Gd shown in Figures 9 and 10 is not mandatory. For example, as shown in Figure 11, the confirmation means 106 may display a display Ga and an operable button Gc labeled "OK" on the display unit 22. In this case, the customer only needs to confirm the total amount, payment amount, and change amount displayed as display Ga and operate the "OK" button Ge.

[0069] Returning to the explanation of Figure 6, if it is determined that the deposit / cash total key 213 has not been operated (No. in S13), the control unit 100 determines whether another closing key 214 has been operated (S15). If it is determined that another closing key 214 has been operated (Yes in S15), the control unit 100 performs accounting processing other than cash according to the type of that other closing key 214 (S16). Then the control unit 100 terminates the process. If it is determined that another closing key 214 has not been operated (No. in S15), the control unit 100 returns to S11.

[0070] The control of the coin change dispenser 271 will now be explained. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the flow of control processing for the coin change dispenser 271. As shown in Figure 12, the control unit 500 of the coin change dispenser 271 determines whether coins have been deposited from the deposit unit 2711 (S51). If it determines that coins have been deposited, the control unit 500 drives the deposit motor 57 to transport the coins and store them in the storage unit, and uses the denomination discrimination sensor 62 to count the number of coins of each denomination being transported and calculate the deposit amount (S52). The control unit 500 then transmits (outputs) coin amount information, including the number of coins of each denomination and the deposit amount, to the controller 16 (S53). The control unit 500 then terminates the process.

[0071] Furthermore, if it is determined that no coins have been deposited (No. in S51), the control unit 500 determines whether it has received the coin dispensing signal transmitted in the S28 process (S54). If it is determined that a coin dispensing signal has been received (Yes in S54), the control unit 500 drives the dispensing motor 58 to execute a dispensing process in which it dispenses the coins of the specified denominations and quantities from the storage unit to the coin dispensing port 273 according to the coin quantity information for each denomination included in the coin dispensing signal (S55). The control unit 100 then terminates the process. If it is determined that no coin dispensing signal has been received (No. in S54), the control unit 500 terminates the process and returns to S51.

[0072] The control of the banknote change dispenser 272 will now be explained. Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of control processing for the banknote change dispenser 272. As shown in Figure 13, the control unit 700 of the banknote change dispenser 272 determines whether banknotes have been deposited from the banknote deposit slot 274 (S61). If it determines that banknotes have been deposited, the control unit 700 drives the deposit motor 77 to transport the banknotes and store them in the storage compartment, and uses the denomination discrimination sensor 79 to count the number of banknotes of each denomination being transported and calculate the deposit amount (S62). The control unit 700 then transmits (outputs) banknote amount information, including the number of banknotes of each denomination and the deposit amount, to the controller 16 (S63). The control unit 700 then terminates the process.

[0073] Furthermore, if it is determined that no banknotes have been deposited (No. in S61), the control unit 700 determines whether it has received the banknote dispensing signal transmitted in the S28 process (S64). If it is determined that the banknote dispensing signal has been received (Yes in S64), the control unit 500 drives the dispensing motor 78 to execute a dispensing process in which it dispenses banknotes of the denominations and quantities according to the number of banknotes of each denomination included in the banknote dispensing signal from the storage unit to the banknote dispensing port 275 (S65). Then the control unit 100 terminates the process. If it is determined that no banknote dispensing signal has been received (No. in S64), the control unit 500 terminates the process and returns to S51.

[0074] As described above, the self-service POS terminal 1 of the embodiment is a self-service POS terminal 1 in which the customer performs accounting operations related to the purchase of goods, and includes a coin change dispenser 271 that can store deposited coins and dispenses the stored coins as change, and outputs coin amount information related to the amount of coins deposited in a single transaction, a banknote change dispenser 272 that can store deposited banknotes and dispenses the stored banknotes as change, and outputs banknote amount information related to the amount of banknotes deposited in a single transaction, and a change calculation means 101 that calculates the amount of change based on the purchase price of the goods and the outputted coin amount information and banknote amount information, and coins The system includes a first determination means 102 that determines whether the amount of coins included in the coin amount information input from the change dispenser 271 is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote; a second determination means 103 that determines whether the calculated change amount is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote; and a change dispensing means 107 that, if the first determination means 102 determines that the amount of coins is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, and the second determination means 103 determines that the change amount is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, outputs a coin dispensing signal to the coin change dispenser 271 that dispenses an amount of change in coins that does not exceed the amount of coins deposited, but is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote.

[0075] In this embodiment, the self-service POS terminal 1 outputs a coin dispensing signal to the coin dispenser 271 if the amount of coins included in the coin amount information input from the coin dispenser 271 is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, and the calculated change amount is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, in which case the amount of coins dispensed to the coin dispenser 271 is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, and the amount of change dispensed to the coin dispenser 271 is equal to or greater than the amount of coins deposited to the coin dispenser 271. The coin dispenser 271 dispenses coins as change based on the coin dispensing signal. This makes it possible to prevent reverse exchange.

[0076] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the self-service POS terminal 1 can prevent reverse exchange, thereby preventing the coin dispenser 271 from quickly becoming full with the large number of coins deposited into it.

[0077] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented 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 variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents.

[0078] For example, in this embodiment, the coin amount information includes the number of coins of each denomination and the total amount of coins deposited. However, the coin amount information is not limited to this, and may include only the total amount of coins deposited. In this case, the change dispensing means 107 transmits the amount of change to be dispensed by the coin change machine 271 as a dispensing signal. Based on the received dispensing signal, the coin change machine 271 dispenses the minimum number of coins as change. Similarly, the banknote amount information includes the number of banknotes of each denomination and the total amount of banknotes deposited. However, the banknote amount information is not limited to this, and may include only the total amount of banknotes deposited.

[0079] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when a coin of a smaller denomination than the standard denomination is deposited, a coin dispensing signal is output to convert it to coins of the standard denomination and dispense them. However, the invention is not limited to this, and when a coin of a smaller denomination is deposited, a coin dispensing signal may be output to dispense the small coin as is, without converting it to coins of the standard denomination.

[0080] Furthermore, in the embodiment, when dispensing change in many coins, the customer is asked to confirm before dispensing. However, the confirmation means 106 is not a mandatory requirement.

[0081] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the self-service POS terminal 1 was described as an example of an accounting device. However, the invention is not limited to this, and for example, an accounting device in which the customer performs accounting operations in a semi-self-service POS system may be used as the accounting device. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0082] 1 Self-service POS terminal 11 CPU 12 ROM 13 RAM 14. Memory section 51 CPU 52 ROM 53 RAM 54 Memory section 57 Input Motor 58 Discharge Motor 62 Denomination Discrimination Sensor 71 CPU 72 ROM 73 RAM 74 Memory section 77 Input Motor 78 Discharge Motor 79. Denomination Discrimination Sensor 100 Control Unit 101 Change Calculation Method 102 First means of judgment 103 Second judgment method 104 Dispensing method determination means 105 Means for determining the type of payment to be made 106 Verification methods 107 Means of giving change 131 Product Information Department 132 Deposit amount storage section 142 Standard denomination section 271 Coin change machine 272 Banknote Change Machine 273 Coin Dispenser 274 Banknote deposit slot 275 Banknote Dispensing Slot 500 Control Unit 700 Control Unit 2711 Deposit Department Ga display Gband Message Gc button Gd display Ge button [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0083] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-119453

Claims

1. An accounting device in which the customer performs the accounting operations related to the purchase of goods, A coin change dispenser capable of storing deposited coins, dispensing the stored coins as change, and outputting coin amount information relating to the amount of coins deposited in a single transaction, A banknote change dispenser capable of storing deposited banknotes, dispensing the stored banknotes as change, and outputting banknote amount information relating to the amount of banknotes deposited in a single transaction, A change calculation means that calculates the amount of change based on the purchase price of the aforementioned product and the outputted coin amount information and banknote amount information, A first determination means for determining whether the amount of coins included in the coin amount information input from the coin change machine is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, A second determination means for determining whether the calculated change amount is equal to or greater than the amount of the minimum denomination banknote, If the first determination means determines that the amount of the coins is equal to or greater than the amount of the minimum denomination banknote, and the second determination means determines that the amount of change is equal to or greater than the amount of the minimum denomination banknote, the change dispensing means outputs a coin dispensing signal to the coin change machine to dispense in coins an amount of the change that does not exceed the amount of the coins deposited, but is equal to or greater than the amount of the minimum denomination banknote. If the first determination means determines that the amount of coins indicated by the coin amount information is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, and the second determination means determines that the amount of change is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, the confirmation means confirms with the customer whether it is appropriate to pay out an amount equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote as change in coins, Equipped with, The change dispensing means is an accounting device that outputs a coin dispensing signal when it confirms that the change will be dispensed in coins equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote.

2. The aforementioned coin amount information includes information on the number of coins of each denomination deposited into the coin change machine. The aforementioned banknote amount information includes information on the number of banknotes of each denomination deposited into the banknote change machine. The accounting device according to claim 1.

3. The verification means displays and verifies to the customer the amount of coins to be dispensed and the number of coins of each denomination. The accounting device according to claim 1.

4. It is equipped with a standard denomination storage unit that stores the standard denominations of coins, The system includes a determination means for determining the denomination of change to be paid out based on whether or not there are coins of a smaller denomination than the aforementioned standard denomination of coins deposited. The aforementioned change dispensing mechanism dispenses change in the determined denomination. The accounting device according to claim 2.

5. A computer serving as an accounting device for customers to perform accounting operations related to the purchase of goods is provided, comprising: a coin change dispenser capable of storing deposited coins, dispensing the stored coins as change, and outputting coin amount information relating to the amount of coins deposited in a single transaction; and a banknote change dispenser capable of storing deposited banknotes, dispensing the stored banknotes as change, and outputting banknote amount information relating to the amount of banknotes deposited in a single transaction. A change calculation means that calculates the amount of change based on the purchase price of the aforementioned product and the outputted coin amount information and banknote amount information, A first determination means for determining whether the amount of coins indicated by the coin amount information input from the coin change machine is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, A second determination means for determining whether the calculated change amount is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, If the first determination means determines that the amount of the coins is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, and the second determination means determines that the amount of change is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, the change dispensing means outputs a coin dispensing signal to the coin change machine to dispense in coins an amount of the change that does not exceed the amount of the coins deposited, but is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote. If the first determination means determines that the amount of coins indicated by the coin amount information is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, and the second determination means determines that the amount of change is equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote, the confirmation means confirms with the customer whether it is appropriate to pay out an amount equal to or greater than the amount of the smallest denomination banknote as change in coins, and make it work The change dispensing means is a program that outputs the coin dispensing signal when it confirms that the change will be dispensed in coins equal to or greater than the amount of the minimum denomination banknote.

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