Accounting system, input device, payment device, and program

Abstract

To provide an accounting system that allows a clerk and a customer to share operations and settle a transaction without generating settlement information by an input device.SOLUTION: An input device determines any one settlement device among a plurality of settlement devices as a connection destination before inputting data related to a transaction. The input device transmits the data related to the transaction input through an input device to any one settlement device determined as the connection destination before an input end instruction of the data related to the transaction is detected. When the input end instruction is detected, the input device notifies any one settlement device determined as the connection destination of the input end. The settlement device stores the data related to the transaction transmitted from the input device in a settlement-side storage section until the transaction is settled. When receiving notification of the input end from the input device, the settlement device settles the transaction on the basis of the data related to the transaction stored in the settlement-side storage section.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an accounting system, an input device and a settlement device of this system, and further to programs for the input device and the settlement device respectively.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, as an accounting system for supermarkets, a shared accounting system in which a clerk and a customer share operations is known. This type of accounting system separates an input device that accepts data input of products sold in a transaction for each transaction, and a settlement device that executes settlement processing of the transaction based on the product data input by this input device. Then, it is arranged such that the clerk operates the input device and the customer operates the settlement device.

[0003] In the shared accounting system, since the clerk performs the product data input operation, the time required for data input is shorter than that of the self-service accounting system in which the customer performs all operations by himself / herself. On the other hand, since the customer operates the settlement device, it is assumed that customers who are not used to operating will have trouble with settlement. Therefore, generally, in the shared accounting system, a plurality of settlement devices are assigned to one input device.

[0004] In this type of conventional accounting system, when the clerk finishes all data input of products sold in a transaction with the customer to the input device, settlement information is generated in the input device. The settlement information includes details information such as product codes, product names, unit prices, quantities, amounts, etc. of the sold products, and total information such as total number of items, total amount, etc. Then, since the settlement information is transmitted to any available settlement device, the clerk guides the customer to that settlement device. Since the settlement device that receives the settlement information can perform settlement processing, the customer operates the settlement device and pays the price in cash, by credit card, electronic money, etc. Thus, the shared accounting system settles the transaction with the clerk and the customer sharing the operations.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2013-242839 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] The problem that the embodiments of the present invention aim to solve is to provide an accounting system in which a store clerk and a customer can share the operation and settle a transaction without generating settlement information with an input device, as well as an input device and a settlement device for this system, and furthermore, programs for the input device and the settlement device, respectively. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment, the accounting system connects an input device that inputs transaction data via an input device with multiple settlement devices that settle transactions via a communication line. The input device comprises a determination means, a completion detection means, a first transmission means, and a first notification means. Before inputting transaction data, the determination means determines one of several settlement devices as the connection destination. The completion detection means detects an instruction to complete input of transaction data. The first transmission means transmits the transaction data input via the input device to one of the settlement devices determined as the connection destination by the determination means before the completion detection means detects an instruction to complete input of the transaction data. When the completion detection means detects an instruction to complete input of transaction data, the first notification means outputs a signal to one of the settlement devices determined as the connection destination by the determination means to notify it of the completion of input. The settlement device comprises a settlement-side storage means and a settlement means. The settlement-side storage means stores transaction data transmitted from the input device in the settlement-side storage unit until the transaction is settled. When the settlement means receives a signal from the input device indicating the end of input, it settles the transaction based on the transaction data stored in the settlement-side storage unit. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of the accounting system according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of an input device to be incorporated into an accounting system. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a payment device integrated into an accounting system. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the input device processor in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the first data table of the input device in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of detail records. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the payment device processor in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the flag memory in the payment device. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing performed by the input device's processor according to the input program in the first embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing performed by the input device's processor according to the input program in the first embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing performed by the payment device's processor in accordance with the payment program in the first embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing performed by the processor of the payment device in accordance with the payment program in the first embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows an example of a connection destination selection screen displayed on the touch panel of an input device. [Figure 14]FIG. 14 is an example of a connection unavailable screen displayed on the touch panel of the input device. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is an example of a connection destination selection screen displayed on the touch panel of the input device. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is an example of a detail screen displayed on the touch panel of the input device. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is an example of a subtotal screen displayed on the touch panel of the input device. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is an example of a standby screen displayed on the touch panel of the payment device. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is an example of a payment method selection screen displayed on the touch panel of the payment device. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is an example of a settlement screen displayed on the touch panel of the payment device. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the processor of the input device in the second embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the processor of the payment device in the second embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the main part procedure of the information processing executed by the processor of the input device according to the input program in the second embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the main part procedure of the information processing executed by the processor of the payment device according to the payment program in the second embodiment. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is an example of a detail screen displayed on the touch panel of the input device. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is an example of a correction screen displayed on the touch panel of the input device. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is an example of a correction screen displayed on the touch panel of the input device. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is an example of a detail screen displayed on the touch panel of the input device. [Figure 29]Figure 29 shows an example of a correction screen displayed on the touch panel of an input device. [Figure 30] Figure 30 shows an example of a details screen displayed on the touch panel of an input device. [Figure 31] Figure 31 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the input device processor in the third embodiment. [Figure 32] Figure 32 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the second data table of the input device in the third embodiment. [Figure 33] Figure 33 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the payment device processor in the third embodiment. [Figure 34] Figure 34 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing performed by the input device's processor according to the input program in a third embodiment. [Figure 35] Figure 35 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing performed by the input device's processor according to the input program in a third embodiment. [Figure 36] Figure 36 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing performed by the input device's processor according to the input program in a third embodiment. [Figure 37] Figure 37 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing performed by the payment device's processor in accordance with the payment program in the third embodiment. [Figure 38] Figure 38 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing performed by the payment device's processor in accordance with the payment program in a third embodiment. [Figure 39] Figure 39 shows an example of a connection destination selection screen displayed on the touch panel of an input device. [Figure 40] Figure 40 shows an example of the second detail screen displayed on the touch panel of the input device. [Figure 41] Figure 41 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the input device processor in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 42]Figure 42 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of the detail record in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 43] Figure 43 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the payment device processor in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 44] Figure 44 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing performed by the input device's processor according to the input program in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 45] Figure 45 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing performed by the input device's processor according to the input program in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 46] Figure 46 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing performed by the payment device's processor in accordance with the payment program in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 47] Figure 47 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing performed by the payment device's processor according to the payment program in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 48] Figure 48 shows an example of a details screen displayed on the touch panel of an input device. [Figure 49] Figure 49 shows an example of a payment completion screen displayed on the touch panel of an input device. [Figure 50] Figure 50 shows an example of a receipt issued by a payment device. [Figure 51] Figure 51 shows another example of a connection selection screen displayed on the touch panel of an input device. [Figure 52] Figure 52 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing performed by the input device's processor according to the input program in another embodiment. [Figure 53] Figure 53 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing performed by the payment device's processor in accordance with the payment program in another embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The following describes embodiments of an accounting system in which store clerks and customers can share the operation to settle transactions without generating payment information on an input device, in the order of the first embodiment, second embodiment, third embodiment, and fourth embodiment. First, the general configuration of the accounting system, the hardware configuration of the input device and the payment device, which are common to each embodiment, will be described using Figures 1 to 3.

[0010] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of accounting system 1. Accounting system 1 includes an input device 11, a settlement device 12, a server 13, and a network 14 connecting them. The type of network 14 is not particularly limited, but generally a wired or wireless LAN (local area network) is used.

[0011] The input device 11 is configured to accept data input for each transaction, specifically for the goods to be bought and sold in that transaction. The settlement device 12 is configured to perform settlement processing for a transaction based on the product data entered in the input device 11. In principle, the input device 11 is operated by a store clerk 2, who is in the role of a checker. In principle, the settlement device 12 is operated by a consumer, or customer 3, who purchases goods at the store. However, the operator of the input device 11 may also be customer 3. That is, customer 3 may operate both the input device 11 and the settlement device 12. Similarly, the operator of the settlement device 12 may also be store clerk 2. That is, store clerk 2 may operate both the input device 11 and the settlement device 12.

[0012] In Figure 1, the input device 11 is attached to the work table 4. The work table 4 has a rectangular tabletop. Multiple work tables 4 are arranged so that the longitudinal directions of their tabletops are approximately parallel, forming a passageway for customers 3, a so-called checkout lane.

[0013] The input device 11 and payment device 12 are located in each checkout lane of the store. One input device 11 and two or more payment devices 12 are located in each checkout lane. Various data signals are exchanged between the input device 11 and payment device 12 located in the same checkout lane via the network 14. The data signals may be exchanged via the server 13 or without going through the server 13.

[0014] Figure 1 shows an example where one input device 11 (11-1) and two settlement devices 12 (12-1, 12-2) are arranged in the first checkout lane, and one input device 11 (11-2) and two settlement devices 12 (12-3, 12-4) are arranged in the second checkout lane. Although not shown, other checkout lanes also have one input device 11 and two or more settlement devices 12. The two settlement devices 12 (12-1, 12-2) arranged in the first checkout lane can both perform settlement processing for transactions processed by the input device 11 (11-1) arranged in the same checkout lane. The two settlement devices 12 (12-3, 12-4) arranged in the second checkout lane can both perform settlement processing for transactions processed by the input device 11 (11-2) arranged in the same checkout lane.

[0015] Furthermore, at least one settlement device 12 located in a single checkout lane may be capable of settling transactions processed by an input device 11 located in an adjacent checkout lane. For example, in Figure 1, settlement device 12(12-2) is capable of settling transactions processed not only by input device 11(11-1) but also by input device 11(11-2). Similarly, settlement device 12(12-3) is capable of settling transactions processed not only by input device 11(11-2) but also by input device 11(11-1). In this way, the number of settlement devices 12 capable of settling transactions processed by a single input device 11 can be increased without adding any additional settlement devices 12.

[0016] Server 13 includes a product master file 131 and a sales master file 132. The product master file 131 and the sales master file 132 may be stored in a storage device built into Server 13, or they may be stored in a storage device connected to an external device of Server 13.

[0017] Product Master File 131 is a data file that stores product records created for each product sold in a store. A product record is a data record that describes product data such as product code, product name, unit price, and attributes.

[0018] A product code is a unique code assigned to each product to identify it. Typically, each product has a barcode or two-dimensional code that represents the product code. Alternatively, it may have an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag that stores the product code. The input device 11 can input the product codes of products bought and sold in a transaction by reading the barcode, two-dimensional code, or RFID tag attached to the product with a reader.

[0019] Product name and unit price are the name of the product identified by the product code and the price per unit. Attributes include, for example, information regarding the product's taxation. Tax information includes the tax rate and tax type (external tax, internal tax, tax-exempt).

[0020] Sales Master File 132 is a data file that stores sales records created for each product sold in a store. Each sales record contains sales data such as the product code, product name, and unit price mentioned above, as well as the number of items sold and the total sales amount. The number of items sold is the total quantity sold for each product identified by its corresponding product code. The total sales amount is the total sales amount for each product identified by its corresponding product code.

[0021] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the input device 11. The input device 11 includes a processor 21, main memory 22, auxiliary storage device 23, clock 24, communication unit 25, keyboard 26, scanner 27, touch panel 28, customer display 29, and system transmission path 30, etc. The system transmission path 30 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission path 30 connects the processor 21 and the other parts directly or via signal input / output circuits, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0022] The input device 11 constitutes a computer by connecting the processor 21, main memory 22, auxiliary storage device 23, clock 24, and communication unit 25 via a system transmission path 30. The input device 11 then connects devices such as a keyboard 26, scanner 27, touch panel 28, and customer display 29 to the computer via the system transmission path 30.

[0023] The processor 21 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 21 controls each part to realize various functions as an input device 11 according to the operating system or application program. The processor 21 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0024] Main memory 22 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 22 includes non-volatile memory areas and volatile memory areas. In the non-volatile memory area, main memory 22 stores the operating system or application programs. Main memory 22 may also store data necessary for the processor 21 to perform processing to control each part in non-volatile or volatile memory areas. Main memory 22 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as needed by the processor 21. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0025] The auxiliary storage device 23 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. 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 23. The auxiliary storage device 23 stores data used by the processor 21 in performing various processes, data created by the processing performed by the processor 21, etc. The auxiliary storage device 23 may also store the application programs described above.

[0026] The clock 24 measures the date and time. The processor 21 processes the date and time measured by the clock 24 as the current date and time. The communication unit 25 is an interface for data communication with the server 13 and multiple payment devices 12 connected via the network 14. The keyboard 26 is an input device with various keys necessary for inputting data related to the goods purchased by the customer, so-called purchased goods. The scanner 27 is an input device that reads and inputs code symbols such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes. The touch panel 28 is a device that combines an input device and a display device. The touch panel 28 displays information to the store clerk who is the operator of the input device 11 and accepts operation input from the store clerk. The customer display 29 displays information to customer 3 whose purchased goods data has been entered into the input device 11.

[0027] An existing POS terminal can be used as an input device 11 with such hardware configuration. Note that the devices connected to the input device 11 are not limited to the keyboard 26, scanner 27, touch panel 28, and customer display 29. Additional devices may be added or some devices omitted depending on the application of the input device 11.

[0028] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the payment device 12. The payment device 12 includes a processor 31, main memory 32, auxiliary storage device 33, clock 34, communication unit 35, change dispenser interface 36, scanner 37, touch panel 38, printer 39, warning light 40, terminal interface 41, and system transmission path 42, etc. The system transmission path 42 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission path 42 connects the processor 31 and the other parts directly or via signal input / output circuits, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0029] The payment device 12 is configured as a computer by connecting the processor 31, main memory 32, auxiliary storage device 33, clock 34, and communication unit 35 via a system transmission path 42. The payment device 12 then connects device interfaces or devices such as a change dispenser interface 36, scanner 37, touch panel 38, printer 39, warning light 40, and terminal interface 41 to its computer via the system transmission path 42.

[0030] The processor 31 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 31 controls each part in order to realize various functions as a payment device 12 according to the operating system or application program. The processor 31 is, for example, a CPU.

[0031] Main memory 32 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 32 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area, main memory 32 stores the operating system or application programs. Main memory 32 may also store data necessary for the processor 31 to perform processing to control each part in the non-volatile or volatile memory area. Main memory 32 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processor 31. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM.

[0032] The auxiliary storage device 33 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. For example, an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD could be the auxiliary storage device 33. The auxiliary storage device 33 stores data used by the processor 31 in performing various processes, data created by the processing performed by the processor 31, etc. The auxiliary storage device 33 may also store the application program described above.

[0033] The clock 34 measures the date and time. The processor 31 processes the date and time measured by the clock 34 as the current date and time. The communication unit 35 communicates data with the server 13 or input device 11 connected via the network 14. The change dispenser interface 36 forms an interface with an automatic change dispenser (not shown). The change dispenser interface 36 receives monetary data of the money inserted into the automatic change dispenser from the automatic change dispenser. The change dispenser interface 36 outputs change data from the payment device 12 to the automatic change dispenser. The automatic change dispenser, having received the change data, automatically dispenses the amount of money corresponding to that change data as change.

[0034] The scanner 37 is an input device for reading code symbols such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes. The touch panel 38 is a device that combines an input device and a display device. The touch panel 38 displays information to the customer 3, who is the operator of the payment device 12, and accepts operation input from the customer 3. The printer 39 issues a receipt by printing various strings of characters or images on receipt paper. The warning light 40 has two light-emitting elements, for example, red and blue. The warning light 40 is installed at the top of a pole erected in the vicinity of the payment device 12, and lights up or flashes in red or blue, for example, depending on the state of the corresponding payment device 12.

[0035] The terminal interface 41 forms an interface with the cashless payment terminal 5. The cashless payment terminal 5 is an information terminal that supports cashless payments such as credit card payments, electronic money payments, and code payments. The terminal interface 41 outputs identification data of the cashless payment method selected from among several types of cashless payment methods to the cashless payment terminal 5. In the cashless payment terminal 5, the settlement of the transaction is processed using the cashless payment method identified by the identification data, and the terminal interface 41 receives the processing result from the cashless payment terminal 5. By connecting the cashless payment terminal 5 to the terminal interface 41, the payment device 12 becomes a device that supports not only cash payments but also cashless payments.

[0036] As a payment device 12 having such a hardware configuration, for example, an existing self-service POS terminal, or so-called self-checkout terminal, can be used. Note that the devices connected to the payment device 12 are not limited to the scanner 37, touch panel 38, printer 39, and warning light 40. Additional devices may be added or some devices omitted depending on the application of the payment device 12.

[0037] [First Embodiment] Next, the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 4 to 20. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the processor 21 of the input device 11. The processor 21 has the functions of a connection destination selection means 51, a query means 52, a determination means 53, a disable means 54, an input side storage means 55, a detail display means 56, a termination detection means 57, a first transmission means 58, a first notification means 59, and a settlement destination notification means 510. However, the functions of the processor 21 are not limited to these.

[0038] The connection destination selection means 51 is a function that, before inputting transaction data, receives input from the input device 61 and selects one of the multiple payment devices 12 as the connection destination. The input device 61 is either a keyboard 26 or a touch panel 28. The connection destination selection means 51 has operators on the input device 61 that can individually specify one of the multiple payment devices 12. When one of the operators is operated, the connection destination selection means 51 selects the payment device 12 specified by that operator as the connection destination.

[0039] The inquiry means 52 is a function that inquires whether it is possible to connect to one payment device 12 selected by the connection destination selection means 51. The payment device 12 that receives the inquiry will respond with either "connection permitted" or "connection denied".

[0040] The determination means 53 is a function that determines one of the multiple payment devices 12 as the connection destination before inputting transaction data. The determination means 53 determines the payment device 12 as the connection destination when it receives a connection permission response signal from the inquiry destination payment device 12 in response to an inquiry by the inquiry means 52.

[0041] The query means 52 and the determination means 53 operate by referring to the first data table 63. As shown in Figure 5, the first data table 63 is a data table that describes the payment device number (No.) and the connection destination flag Fa, associated with the payment device ID of the payment device 12 that can be connected to the input device 11. In principle, the payment device 12 that can be connected to are multiple payment devices 12 installed in the same checkout lane as the input device 11. The payment device ID is identification information set for each payment device 12 in order to identify each of the multiple payment devices 12 individually. The payment device number is a series of numbers assigned to the payment device 12 identified by the payment device ID. The connection destination flag Fa is a 1-bit data for identifying whether or not the payment device 12 identified by the corresponding payment device ID has been determined as a connection destination. In this embodiment, the connection destination flag Fa for a device determined as a connection destination is set to "1", and the connection destination flag Fa for a device not determined as a connection destination is set to "0".

[0042] Incidentally, in this embodiment, the payment device ID of payment device 12(12-1) is set to

[0001] and the payment device number to [1]. Similarly, the payment device ID of payment device 12(12-2) is set to

[0002] and the payment device number to [2], the payment device ID of payment device 12(12-3) is set to

[0003] and the payment device number to [3], and the payment device ID of payment device 12(12-4) is set to

[0004] and the payment device number to [4]. Accordingly, Figure 5 illustrates the first data table 63 of the input device 11(11-1) to which payment devices 12(12-1) and payment devices 12(12-2) can be connected.

[0043] The inquiry means 52 obtains the payment device ID of the payment device 12 selected by the connection destination selection means 51 from the first data table 63 and makes an inquiry to the payment device 12 identified by that payment device ID. When the decision means 53 receives a response signal indicating that a connection is possible from the inquiry destination payment device 12, it changes the connection destination flag Fa corresponding to the payment device ID of the payment device 12 from "0" to "1".

[0044] The invalidation means 54 is a function that, when the inquiry means 52 receives a connection-denying response signal from the payment device 12 to which the inquiry is made, invalidates the operation of the operator that specifies the payment device 12 among the multiple operators located on the input device 61.

[0045] The input-side storage means 55 has the function of storing transaction data entered via the input device 61 in the input-side storage unit 64. The input-side storage unit 64 is part of the storage area of ​​the main memory 22 or the auxiliary storage device 23. Transaction data includes, for example, the product code, quantity, discount amount, and discount rate of goods bought and sold in a transaction with a customer. When transaction data is entered via the input devices 61, such as the keyboard 26, scanner 27, and touch panel 28, the input-side storage means 55 creates a detailed record Ra for each product to be sold as one transaction based on the entered data. As shown in Figure 6, the detailed record Ra is a record that describes data for items such as product code, product name, unit price, quantity, discount amount, and amount, associated with a series of record numbers. The amount is calculated by multiplying the unit price by the quantity. In other words, the detailed record Ra can be said to be a record that describes transaction data such as product code and quantity. The input-side storage means 55 stores the detailed record Ra in the first transaction file 641 of the input-side storage unit 64.

[0046] The details display means 56 is a function that displays transaction details information on the display device 62 based on transaction data entered via the input device 61. The display device 62 is either or both of the touch panel 28 and the customer display 29. The details display means 56 sets the screen of the display device 62 as the details screen SAc (see Figure 16) and displays details information such as the product name, quantity, unit price, discount amount, and total amount of the details record Ra stored in the first transaction file 641 on the details screen SAc. A detailed explanation of the details screen SAc will be given later.

[0047] The termination detection means 57 has the function of detecting an instruction to complete the input of transaction-related data. The termination detection means 57 receives input from the input device 61 and detects an instruction to complete the input of transaction-related data.

[0048] The first transmission means 58 has the function of transmitting transaction data entered via the input device 61 to one of the settlement devices 12 determined as the connection destination by the determination means 53 via the communication unit 25, before the termination detection means 57 detects an instruction to terminate the input of transaction data. The first transmission means 58 refers to the first data table 63 and recognizes one of the settlement devices 12 determined as the connection destination by the determination means 53, that is, the settlement device 12 whose connection destination flag Fa is set to "1". Hereinafter, one of the settlement devices 12 determined as the connection destination by the determination means 53 will be referred to as the connected settlement device 120. Each time transaction data is entered via the input device 61, the first transmission means 58 transmits the entered transaction data to the connected settlement device 120.

[0049] The first notification means 59 has the function of notifying the connected settlement device 120 of the completion of data input when the completion detection means 57 detects the completion of data input related to a transaction. The first notification means 59 recognizes the connected settlement device 120 by referring to the first data table 63 and outputs a signal to the connected settlement device 120 notifying it of the completion of data input.

[0050] The payment destination notification means 510 has the function of notifying the connected payment device 120, which has been notified of the completion of input by the first notification means 59, as the payment destination. The payment destination notification means 510 notifies the store clerk 2 of the payment destination by displaying information that can identify the connected payment device 120 on the touch panel 28, which is a display device 62 for the store clerk 2. The payment destination notification means 510 may also notify the customer 3 of the payment destination by displaying information that can identify the connected payment device 120 on the customer display 29, which is a display device 62 for the customer 3. Alternatively, the payment destination notification means 510 may notify both the store clerk 2 and the customer 3 of the payment destination by displaying information that can identify the connected payment device 120 on both the touch panel 28 and the customer display 29. The information that can identify the connected payment device 120 is, for example, the payment device number set in the first data table 63.

[0051] The functions of the aforementioned connection destination selection means 51, inquiry means 52, determination means 53, invalidation means 54, input side storage means 55, detail display means 56, termination detection means 57, first transmission means 58, first notification means 59, and settlement destination notification means 510 are realized by information processing executed by the processor 21 according to a program for the input device 11, so-called input program.

[0052] The input program is a type of application program stored in the main memory 22 or the auxiliary storage device 23. The method of installing the input program in the main memory 22 or auxiliary storage device 23 is not particularly limited. The input program can be installed in the main memory 22 or auxiliary storage device 23 by recording it on a removable recording medium or by distributing it via communication over the network 14. The recording medium can take any form as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device, such as a CD-ROM or memory card.

[0053] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the processor 31 of the payment device 12. The processor 31 has the functions of a payment-side storage means 71, an amount display means 72, a connection response means 73, and a payment means 74. However, the functions of the processor 31 are not limited to these.

[0054] The settlement-side storage means 71 has the function of storing transaction data transmitted from the input device 11 and received via the communication unit 35 in the settlement-side storage unit 81 until the transaction is settled. The settlement-side storage unit 81 is part of the storage area of ​​the main memory 32 or the auxiliary storage device 33. Based on the received transaction data, the settlement-side storage means 71 creates a detail record Ra for each product to be sold as a single transaction. As shown in Figure 5, the detail record Ra is a record that describes data for items such as product code, product name, unit price, quantity, discount amount, and amount, associated with a series of record numbers. In other words, the detail record Ra can be said to be a record that describes transaction data such as product code and quantity. The settlement-side storage means 71 stores the detail record Ra in the second transaction file 811 of the settlement-side storage unit 81.

[0055] The amount display means 72 has the function of displaying the settlement amount of the transaction on the touch panel 38 when it receives a signal from the input device 11 notifying it that input has finished. The settlement amount of the transaction is calculated from the amount of the detail record Ra stored in the second transaction file 811 and the value discount amount. Incidentally, until the settlement amount of the transaction is displayed, that is, until it receives a signal from the input device 11 notifying it that input has finished, the amount display means 72 displays a standby screen SBa (see Figure 18) on the touch panel 38.

[0056] The connection response means 73 has the function of returning a connection permission response when it receives an inquiry from the input device 11 regarding the possibility of connection while the transaction settlement is possible. If the connection response means 73 receives an inquiry from the input device 11 regarding the possibility of connection while the transaction settlement is not possible, it returns a connection permission response signal. The connection response means 73 refers to the flag memory 82 to determine whether the transaction settlement is possible or not. If the connection response means 73 determines that the transaction settlement is possible, it sends a connection permission response, i.e., an affirmative response (OK) signal to the input device 11 via the communication unit 35. At this time, the connection response means 73 controls the warning light to light up, for example, in blue. If the connection response means 73 determines that the transaction settlement is not possible, it sends a connection permission response, i.e., a negative response (NG) signal to the input device 11 via the communication unit 35. At this time, the warning light 40 remains off.

[0057] As shown in Figure 8, the flag memory 82 stores a status flag Fb. The status flag Fb is a 1-bit data that identifies whether the settlement device 12 is in standby mode or in the process of settlement. When a standby settlement device 12 receives transaction data from the input device 11, the settlement device 12 enters the settlement mode. When a transaction is being settled, the settlement device 12 is unable to settle the next transaction. Therefore, the connection response means 73 transmits a negative response (NG) signal. When the settlement process is completed in the settlement device 12 that is in the process of settlement, the settlement device 12 enters standby mode. When a settlement device 12 is in standby mode, it is able to settle the next transaction. Therefore, the connection response means 73 transmits an affirmative response (OK) signal. In other words, a standby settlement device 12 is a settlement device that is able to settle transactions. A settlement device 12 that is in the process of settlement is a settlement device that is unable to settle transactions. In this embodiment, the status flag Fb is set to "0" when the device is in standby mode, and the status flag Fb is set to "1" when the device is in the process of settlement.

[0058] The settlement means 74 has the function of settling a transaction based on the transaction data stored in the settlement-side storage unit 81 when it receives notification of the end of input from the input device 11 via the communication unit 35. When the settlement means 74 receives a signal from the input device 11 notifying it of the end of input, it settles the transaction based on the data stored in the second transaction file 811. After the settlement is completed, the settlement means 74 turns off the warning light 40. The settlement means 74 also clears the second transaction file 811 and changes the status flag Fb from "1" to "0". With the second transaction file 811 cleared and the status flag Fb set to "0", the settlement device 12 becomes able to conduct transactions with the next customer.

[0059] The payment method 74 settles the transaction using the payment method selected via the payment method selection screen SBb (see Figure 19). For example, if cash payment is selected as the payment method, the payment method 74 executes the settlement process for the cash transaction via the automatic change dispenser connected to the change dispenser interface 36. If credit card payment is selected as the payment method, the payment method 74 executes the settlement process for the credit card transaction via the cashless payment terminal 5 connected to the terminal interface 41. If electronic money payment is selected as the payment method, the payment method 74 executes the settlement process for the electronic money transaction via the cashless payment terminal 5 connected to the terminal interface 41. Since the settlement processes for cash, credit card, and electronic money transactions are well-known, detailed explanations are omitted.

[0060] The functions of the settlement-side storage means 71, amount display means 72, connection response means 73, and settlement means 74 described above are realized by information processing performed by the processor 21 in accordance with a program for the settlement device, a so-called settlement program.

[0061] The payment program is a type of application program stored in the main memory 32 or the auxiliary storage device 33. The method of installing the payment program in the main memory 32 or auxiliary storage device 33 is not particularly limited. The payment program can be installed in the main memory 32 or auxiliary storage device 33 by recording it on a removable recording medium or by distributing it via communication over the network 14. The recording medium can take any form as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device, such as a CD-ROM or memory card.

[0062] Next, the content and procedures of the main information processing performed in the input device 11 and settlement device 12 that constitute the accounting system 1 will be explained using the flowcharts in Figures 9 to 12 and the screen examples in Figures 13 to 20. Note that the content and procedures of the information processing described below are examples only. The content and procedures can be modified as appropriate if similar effects can be achieved. Similarly, the screen examples are also examples only. The content of the output text, the placement of images, the types and layouts of software keys, etc., can be modified as appropriate.

[0063] First, the essential steps of the information processing performed by the processor 21 of the input device 11 according to the input program will be explained using the flowcharts in Figures 9 and 10. Customer 3 places the items they wish to purchase from the products displayed on the sales floor into a shopping basket or similar container and heads to the checkout lane. When Customer 3 arrives at the checkout lane, clerk 2, who is acting as the checker, declares the start of input to the input device 11. In response to this operation, processor 21 begins processing information according to the procedure shown in the flowcharts of Figures 9 and 10.

[0064] First, the processor 21, as ACT101, sets the screen of the touch panel 28 to the connection destination selection screen SAa (see Figure 13). Figure 13 shows an example of the display of the connection destination selection screen SAa. The connection destination selection screen SAa has a first button BAa and a second button BAb, which are operators that allow users to individually select from multiple payment devices 12 located in the same checkout lane as the input device 11.

[0065] Figure 13 shows an example of the connection destination selection screen SAa displayed on the touch panel 28 of the input device 11(11-1). The payment devices 12 located in the same checkout lane as the input device 11 are payment device 12(12-1) and payment device 12(12-2). The first button BAa is the button to select payment device 12(12-1). Therefore, the payment device number "1" for payment device 12(12-1) is displayed on the first button BAa. The second button BAb is the button to select payment device 12(12-2). Therefore, the payment device number "2" for payment device 12(12-2) is displayed on the second button BAb.

[0066] Incidentally, in the input device 11(11-2) located in the same checkout lane as payment devices 12(12-3) and 12(12-4), a connection selection screen SAa is displayed, which includes a first button BAa displaying the payment device number "3" for payment device 12(12-3) and a second button BAb displaying the payment device number "4" for payment device 12(12-4).

[0067] After confirming that the connection selection screen SAa is displayed on the touch panel 28, clerk 2 searches for an available payment terminal 12. An available payment terminal 12 is one that does not have a customer 3 currently making a payment. Alternatively, it is a payment terminal 12 whose warning light 40 is off. When the clerk identifies an available payment terminal 12, they input the payment terminal number of that terminal 12 by touching the control (first button BAa or second button BAb). For example, if clerk 2 identifies payment terminal 12 (12-1) as available, they input the first button BAa by touching it. For example, if clerk 2 identifies payment terminal 12 (12-2) as available, they input the second button BAb by touching it.

[0068] Returning to the explanation of Figure 9. The processor 21, displaying the connection destination selection screen SAa, waits for the payment device number to be entered as ACT102. When the first button BAa located on the connection destination selection screen SAa is pressed, the processor 21 determines that the payment device number assigned to the first button BAa has been entered. When the second button BAb located on the connection destination selection screen SAa is pressed, the processor 21 determines that the payment device number assigned to the second button BAb has been entered.

[0069] When a payment device number is entered, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT102 to ACT103. As ACT103, the processor 21 refers to the first data table 63 and obtains the payment device ID associated with the payment device number. Then, as ACT104, the processor 21 controls the communication unit 25 to send a confirmation event to that payment device ID as the destination. This control sends the confirmation event to the network 14 via the communication unit 25. The confirmation event is received by one of the multiple payment devices 12 connected to the network 14 that has the payment device ID set as the destination of the confirmation event. The payment device 12 that receives the confirmation event sends back a signal either an affirmative response (OK) to allow the connection or a negative response (NG) to deny the connection.

[0070] The processor 21, which controls the transmission of the confirmation event, waits for an acknowledgment (OK) signal to be received from the payment device 12 as ACT105. In this waiting state, if a negative response (NG) signal is received via the communication unit 25 within a predetermined time, or if neither an acknowledgment (OK) nor a negative response (NG) signal is received, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT105 to ACT106. The processor 21 displays a connection failure screen SAb (see Figure 14) on the touch panel 28, indicating that a connection to the payment device 12 identified by the payment device number entered as ACT106 is not possible.

[0071] Figure 14 shows an example of the display of the connection failure screen SAb. The connection failure screen SAb displays text indicating that it could not connect to the payment device 12, along with a confirmation button BAc. After seeing the text, the store clerk 2 presses the confirmation button BAc by touch.

[0072] The processor 21, which displays the connection failure screen SAb, waits for confirmation button BAc to be input as ACT107. When confirmation button BAc is input, the processor 21 returns from ACT107 to ACT101. In other words, the processor 21 returns the touch panel 28 screen from the connection failure screen SAb to the connection destination selection screen SAa (see Figure 15).

[0073] Figure 15 shows an example of the display on the connection destination selection screen SAa after receiving a negative response (NG) from payment device 12, which has a payment device number assigned to the first button BAa. As shown in the figure, the second button BAb can be used for input via touch operation, but the first button BAa is grayed out and cannot be used for input. In this way, if a confirmation event is sent to payment device 12 but a negative response (NG) signal is received, the first button BAa or the second button BAb, which has a payment device number assigned to the payment device 12 to which the confirmation event was sent, is disabled.

[0074] After checking the connection destination selection screen SAa in Figure 15, the store clerk 2 checks if the payment device 12 with the payment device number assigned to the second button BAb is available. If it is available, the store clerk presses the second button BAb by touch. When the second button BAb is pressed, the processor 21 executes the processes of ACT103 to ACT105 as described above. At this point, if the payment device 12 with the payment device number assigned to the second button BAb does not receive a negative response (NG) signal via the communication unit 25 within a predetermined time, or if it does not receive an affirmative response (OK) or negative response (NG) signal, the processor 21 executes the processes of ACT106 and ACT107 as described above. After that, the processor 21 returns to ACT101. At this time, the connection destination selection screen SAa shows the second button BAb grayed out and the first button BAa becomes available for input.

[0075] In ACT105, if the processor 21 receives an acknowledgment (OK) via the communication unit 25 within a predetermined time, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT105 to ACT108. As ACT108, the processor 21 changes the connection destination flag Fa, which is associated with the payment device ID of the payment device 12 that sent the acknowledgment (OK) and is described in the first data table 63, from "0" to "1". The processor 21 also sets the screen of the touch panel 28 to the details screen SAc (see Figure 16) as ACT109.

[0076] Figure 16 shows an example of the SAc details screen display. The SAc details screen is divided into the current area AAa, the details area AAb, and the total area AAc. The current area AAa displays the product name, quantity, and price of the most recently purchased item in a single transaction. The details area AAb displays the product name, quantity, unit price, discount amount, and price of the purchased items in a single transaction in a list format, in order of the record numbers. The total area AAc displays the total quantity and total price of the purchased items.

[0077] The details screen SAc also includes software keys for the subtotal button BAd, the discount button BAe, and the discount button BAf. The subtotal button BAd is an operator used to signal that the input of purchased items in a transaction has been completed. The discount button BAe is an operator used to signal a discount on the most recently entered purchased item in a transaction. The discount button BAf is an operator used to signal a discount on the most recently entered purchased item in a transaction. Incidentally, the price of an item is discounted when the operator inputs the discount button BAe and enters the discount amount using the numeric keypad on keyboard 26. Similarly, the price of an item is discounted when the operator inputs the discount button BAf and enters the discount rate using the numeric keypad on keyboard 26.

[0078] In ACT109, the processor 21 uses the customer display 29 as the customer details screen. The customer details screen is the details screen SAc with the software keys removed.

[0079] After confirming that the details screen SAc is displayed on the touch panel 28, clerk 2 operates the scanner 27 to read the barcode attached to the item purchased by customer 3. When the barcode is read by the scanner 27, the product code of the purchased item is entered into the input device 11. On the other hand, some products, such as fresh food, may not have a barcode. If a product does not have a barcode, clerk 2 displays a list of products without barcodes on the touch panel 28. The clerk then selects the product the customer will purchase from that list. Through this operation, the product code of the purchased item without a barcode is entered into the input device 11.

[0080] Returning to the explanation of Figure 9. The processor 21, displaying the details screen SAc, waits for the product code to be entered as ACT110. Once the product code is entered, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT110 to ACT111. As ACT111, the processor 21 obtains the payment device ID of the connected payment device 12. That is, the processor 21 refers to the first data table 63 and obtains the payment device ID for which the connection destination flag Fa is "1". Then, as ACT112, the processor 21 controls the communication unit 25 to send an input event with the payment device ID as the destination. This control sends the input event to the network 14 via the communication unit 25. The input event is received by one of the multiple payment devices 12 connected to the network 14, specifically the payment device 12 for which the payment device ID that is the destination of the input event is set. The input event includes the product code entered from the scanner 27 or touch panel 28.

[0081] The processor 21 also creates a detail record Ra as ACT113. Specifically, the processor 21 accesses the server 13 and retrieves a product record containing the entered product code from the product master file 131. Then, based on the product information such as product name and unit price described in that product record, the processor 21 creates a detail record Ra consisting of item data such as record number r, product code, product name, unit price, quantity, value discount amount, and amount. Note that the quantity is "1". The value discount amount is "0". The amount is the unit price.

[0082] Processor 21 stores the detail record Ra in the first transaction file 641 as ACT114. Processor 21 also updates the detail screen SAc as ACT115. That is, Processor 21 displays the product name, quantity, and amount of detail record Ra in the current area AAa of the detail screen SAc. At this time, if data related to detail record Ra with a record number (r-1) one record prior to the record number r of the current detail record Ra is displayed in the current area AAa, Processor 21 displays the record number (r-1), product name, quantity, unit price, value discount amount, and amount of that detail record Ra in the detail area AAb. Processor 21 also displays the total quantity and total amount of all detail records Ra stored in the first transaction file 641 in the total area AAc. Processor 21 updates the customer detail screen in the same manner.

[0083] After updating the details screen SAc, processor 21 proceeds to ACT121 in Figure 10. Processor 21 checks whether a product code has been entered as ACT121. If no product code has been entered, processor 21 proceeds from ACT121 to ACT122. Processor 21 checks whether quantity or value discount data has been entered as ACT122. If no quantity or value discount data has been entered, processor 21 proceeds from ACT122 to ACT123. Processor 21 checks whether the subtotal button BAd has been entered as ACT123. If the subtotal button BAd has not been entered, processor 21 returns from ACT123 to ACT121. In this way, after updating the details screen SAc, processor 21 enters a waiting state for product code, quantity or value discount data, and subtotal button BAd as ACT121 through ACT123.

[0084] When a product code is entered while in the waiting state for ACT121 to ACT123, the processor 21 returns from ACT121 to ACT111 in Figure 9. The processor 21 then executes the processing of ACT111 to ACT115 in the same manner as described above. That is, the processor 21 obtains the payment device ID of the connected payment device 12 and controls the communication unit 25 to send an input event to that payment device ID. The input event includes the product code entered from the scanner 27 or touch panel 28. The processor 21 also creates a detail record Ra and stores the detail record Ra in the first transaction file 641. The processor 21 then updates the detail screen SAc based on the data of the detail record Ra stored in the first transaction file 641. After that, the processor 21 returns to the waiting state for ACT121 to ACT123.

[0085] In the waiting state of ACT121 to ACT123, if a quantity is entered using the numeric keypad and multiplication key on the keyboard 26, or if a discount amount or discount rate is entered using the discount button BAe or discount button BAf and the numeric keypad, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT122 to ACT124. The processor 21 performs the same processing as described above for ACT111 and ACT112 as ACT124 and ACT125. That is, the processor 21 obtains the payment device ID of the connected payment device 12 and controls the communication unit 25 to send an input event to that payment device ID. The input event includes the key-entered quantity, discount amount, or discount rate.

[0086] Processor 21 updates the detail record Ra with record number r stored in the first transaction file 641 as ACT126. Specifically, if a quantity is entered, Processor 21 sets the quantity in detail record Ra to the entered value and the amount to the product of the unit price and the quantity. If a discount amount is entered, Processor 21 writes the discount amount to detail record Ra and subtracts the discount amount from the amount. If a discount rate is entered, Processor 21 calculates and writes the discount amount from the unit price and discount rate in detail record Ra and subtracts the discount amount from the amount. Then, as ACT127, Processor 21 updates the display of the current area AAa and total area AAc on the detail screen SAc using the data from the first transaction file 641 after updating detail record Ra. Processor 21 updates the customer detail screen in the same way. After that, Processor 21 returns to the waiting state of ACT121 to ACT123.

[0087] If the subtotal button BAd is pressed while in the standby state of ACT121 to ACT123, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT123 to ACT128. The processor 21 sets the screen of the touch panel 28 as the subtotal plane SAd (see Figure 17) as ACT128.

[0088] Figure 17 shows an example of the display of the subplan area SAd. The subplan area SAd includes a total area AAd where the total points and total amount are displayed. The subplan area SAd also includes software keys for the subtotal discount button BAg, the subtotal discount button BAh, the input complete button BAi, and the return to details button BAj. The subtotal discount button BAg is an operator used to command a discount on the total amount. The subtotal discount button BAh is an operator used to command a discount on the total amount. Incidentally, the total amount is discounted by pressing the subtotal discount button BAg and entering the discount amount using the numeric keypad on keyboard 26. Similarly, the total amount is discounted by pressing the subtotal discount button BAh and entering the discount rate using the numeric keypad on keyboard 26.

[0089] The Input Complete button BAi is an operator used to indicate the end of entering transaction data. When clerk 2 has finished entering transaction data, they touch the Input Complete button BAi. If clerk 2 has not finished entering transaction data, they touch the Return to Details button BAj.

[0090] In ACT128, the processor 21 uses the screen of the customer display 29 as the customer subplanning surface. The customer subplanning surface is the subplanning surface SAd with the software keys removed.

[0091] Incidentally, the details screen SAc and the subplan screen SAd display the identification name NAa of the connected payment device 120 that responded with an acknowledgment (OK) to the confirmation event in a portion of the screen. The identification name NAa includes the payment device number. For reference, the details screen SAc in Figure 16 and the subplan screen SAd in Figure 17 are examples of screens when payment device 12 (12-1), which is assigned payment device number "1", is selected as the connected payment device 120, and "[Payment Device 1]" is displayed as the identification name NAa. The store clerk 2 can easily know that the connected payment device 120 is payment device 12 (12-1) from this identification name NAa.

[0092] The processor 21, displaying the subplan plane SAd, checks whether the button BAj, which returns to the details, has been entered as ACT129. If the button BAj is not entered, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT129 to ACT130. The processor 21 then checks whether the input completion button BAi has been entered as ACT130. If the input completion button BAi is not entered, the processor 21 returns from ACT130 to ACT129.

[0093] With the subtotal plan SAd displayed in this manner, the processor 21 waits for the input of the return-to-details button BAj or the input complete button BAi in ACT129 and ACT130. If the subtotal discount button BAg or subtotal discount button BAh is input while in this waiting state, the processor 21 performs the subtotal discount or subtotal discount process and returns to the waiting state of ACT129 and ACT130.

[0094] If the button BAj (return to details) is pressed while in the standby state of ACT129 or ACT130, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT129 to ACT131. As ACT131, the processor 21 returns the touch panel 28 screen from the subplan screen SAd to the previous details screen SAc. Then the processor 21 returns to the standby state of ACT121 to ACT123.

[0095] When the input completion button BAi is pressed while ACT129 and ACT130 are in standby mode, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT130 to ACT132. The processor 21 issues a transaction number as ACT132. For example, the input device 11 is equipped with a counter for counting transaction numbers. The processor 21 increments this counter and issues a new transaction number.

[0096] The processor 21, which issued the transaction number, proceeds to ACT133. As ACT133, the processor 21 obtains the payment device ID of the payment device 12 to which it has connected. That is, the processor 21 refers to the first data table 63 and obtains the payment device ID for which the connection destination flag Fa is "1". Then, as ACT134, the processor 21 controls the communication unit 25 to send a completion event to the payment device ID as the destination. This control causes the completion event to be sent to the network 14 via the communication unit 25. The completion event is received by the payment device 12 among the multiple payment devices 12 connected to the network 14 that has the payment device ID set as the destination for the completion event. The completion event includes the transaction number issued in ACT132.

[0097] The processor 21, having sent the completion event, proceeds to ACT 135. As ACT 135, the processor 21 notifies the payment device 12 to which the completion event was sent. For example, the processor 21 displays the payment device number assigned to the payment device 12 on the touch panel 28. Upon seeing this display, the store clerk 2 instructs the customer 3 to make the payment at the payment device 12. The processor 21 may also display information indicating the payment device 12 on a portion of the customer payment screen displayed on the customer display 29. In this way, the customer 3 can find out which payment device 12 is available for payment.

[0098] Having notified the settlement device 12, the destination of the completion event, the processor 21 proceeds to ACT 136. As ACT 136, the processor 21 clears the first transaction file 641. This clear deletes all detail records Ra that were stored in the first transaction file 641. The processor 21 then, as ACT 137, refers to the first data table 63 and changes the connection destination flag Fa, which was set to "1", to "0". With this, the processor 21 completes the information processing according to the input program.

[0099] Thus, once the first transaction file 641 is cleared and all connection destination flags Fa in the first data table 63 are set to "0", the next customer can input transaction data into the input device 11. When the store clerk 2 declares the start of input to the input device 11, the processor 21 sets the touch panel 28 screen to the connection destination selection screen SAa. The processor 21 then executes the processing from ACT 102 onward in the same manner as described above.

[0100] Here, processor 21 realizes the function of connection destination selection means 51 through processing of ACT101 and ACT102. Processor 21 realizes the function of query means 52 through processing of ACT103 and ACT104. Processor 21 realizes the function of determination means 53 through processing of ACT105 and ACT108. Processor 21 realizes the function of invalidation means 54 through processing of ACT106 and ACT101.

[0101] Furthermore, the processor 21 realizes the function of an input-side storage means 55 through the processing of ACT113 and ACT114. The processor 21 realizes the function of a detail display means 56 through the processing of ACT115. The processor 21 realizes the function of an end detection means 57 through the processing of ACT130. The processor 21 realizes the function of a first transmission means 58 through the processing of ACT111 and ACT112. The processor 21 realizes the function of a first notification means 59 through the processing of ACT132 to ACT134. The processor 21 realizes the function of a settlement destination notification means 510 through the processing of ACT135.

[0102] Next, the essential steps of the information processing performed by the processor 31 of the payment device 12 according to the payment program will be explained using the flowcharts in Figures 11 and 12. When the status flag Fb is "0", i.e., the payment device 12's processor 31 is in standby mode, it starts processing information according to the procedure shown in the flowcharts in Figures 11 and 12. First, the processor 31 sets the touch panel 38 screen as the standby screen SBa (see Figure 18) as ACT201.

[0103] Figure 18 shows an example of the standby screen SBa. The standby screen SBa is a screen that informs the operator that the device is on standby. The operator of the payment device 12 is, in principle, customer 3. Therefore, the standby screen SBa should display an image that customer 3 will not operate on its own. For example, it could be a screen that displays text such as "Welcome" or "Please wait," or a screen that displays an illustration such as the store's logo.

[0104] The processor 31, displaying the standby screen SBa, waits for an acknowledgment event to be sent from the input device 11 as ACT202. In this waiting state, when the processor 31 receives an acknowledgment event via the communication unit 35, it proceeds from ACT202 to ACT203. The processor 31 controls the communication unit 35 to send an OK response, which is a connection permission response to allow connection with the input device 11, as ACT203. This control sends an OK signal to the network 14 via the communication unit 35. The OK signal includes an input device ID that identifies the input device 11 that sent the acknowledgment event. The OK signal is received by the input device 11 among the multiple input devices 11 connected to the network 14 that has the input device ID included in the signal set.

[0105] After sending an acknowledgment (OK), processor 31 proceeds to ACT204. In ACT204, processor 31 changes the state flag Fb in flag memory 82 from "0" to "1". Also, in ACT205, processor 31 controls the warning light 40 to light up, for example, in blue.

[0106] The processor 31, which has illuminated the warning light 40, waits for an input event to be transmitted from the input device 11 as ACT206. In this waiting state, when the processor 31 receives an input event via the communication unit 35, it proceeds from ACT206 to ACT207. The processor 31 checks whether or not it has received an input event containing a product code as ACT207.

[0107] As mentioned above, input events include input events that include a product code and input events that include quantity, discount amount, or discount rate. In ACT207, processor 31, having confirmed that it has received an input event that includes a product code, proceeds to ACT208. Processor 31 creates a detail record Ra as ACT208. That is, processor 31 accesses server 13 and retrieves a product record containing the product code included in the input event from product master file 131. Then, based on the product information such as product name and unit price described in that product record, processor 31 creates a detail record Ra consisting of item data such as record number r, product code, product name, unit price, quantity, value discount amount, and amount. The quantity is "1". The value discount amount is "0". The amount is the unit price.

[0108] The processor 31 that created the detail record Ra proceeds to ACT209. The processor 31 stores the detail record Ra in the second transaction file 811 as ACT209.

[0109] On the other hand, if the received input event does not include a product code, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT207 to ACT210. As ACT210, the processor 31 checks whether it has received an input event that includes quantity, discount amount, or discount rate. If it has received an input event that includes quantity, discount amount, or discount rate, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT210 to ACT211. As ACT211, the processor 31 updates the detail record Ra with record number r stored in the second transaction file 811. Specifically, if it has received an input event that includes quantity, the processor 31 uses the quantity in detail record Ra as the value included in the input event, and the amount as the product of the unit price and quantity. If it has received an input event that includes discount amount, the processor 31 writes the discount amount in detail record Ra and subtracts the discount amount from the amount. If it has received an input event that includes discount rate, the processor 31 calculates and writes the discount amount from the unit price and discount rate in detail record Ra and subtracts the discount amount from the amount.

[0110] After completing the processing of ACT209 or ACT211, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT212. The processor 31 checks whether it has received the next input event as ACT212. If it has not received an input event, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT212 to ACT213. The processor 31 checks whether it has received a completion event transmitted from the input device 11 as ACT213. If it has not received a completion event, the processor 31 returns to ACT212. In this way, the processor 31 waits for input events or completion events transmitted from the input device 11 as ACT212 and ACT213.

[0111] When an input event is received while in the waiting state of ACT212 and ACT213, processor 31 returns from ACT212 to ACT207. Then processor 31 executes the processing from ACT207 onward in the same manner as described above. That is, when an input event containing a product code is received, processor 31 creates a detail record Ra and stores that detail record Ra in the second transaction file 811. When an input event containing a quantity, discount amount, or discount rate is received, it updates the detail record Ra with record number r, i.e., the detail record Ra stored in the second transaction file 811 in the processing of the previous ACT209. Then processor 31 returns to the waiting state of ACT212 and ACT213.

[0112] When a completion event is received while ACT212 and ACT213 are in standby mode, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT213 to ACT221 in Figure 12. For ACT221, the processor 31 sets the screen of the touch panel 38 to the payment method selection screen SBb (see Figure 19).

[0113] Figure 19 shows an example of the payment method selection screen SBb. The payment method selection screen SBb includes a total area ABa where the total points and total amount are displayed. The payment method selection screen SBb also includes software keys for the cash button BBa, the credit button BBb, and the electronic money button BBc. The cash button BBa is the operator for selecting cash payment. The credit button BBb is the operator for selecting credit card payment. The electronic money button BBc is the operator for selecting electronic money payment.

[0114] Customer 3, after viewing the payment method selection screen SBb, selects a payment method. Customer 3 who wishes to pay with cash touches the cash button BBa. Customer 3 who wishes to pay with a credit card touches the credit button BBb. Customer 3 who wishes to pay with electronic money touches the electronic money button BBc. In this embodiment, payment methods are limited to three types: cash, credit card, and electronic money. However, it goes without saying that payment methods are not limited to these three types. For example, cashless payment methods such as QR code payments may also be included.

[0115] The processor 21, which displays the payment method selection screen SBb, waits as ACT222 for one of the payment methods to be selected. In this waiting state, the payment device 12 may receive a confirmation event from the input device 11 located in the same checkout lane. The processor 31 then checks as ACT223 whether or not a confirmation event has been received. If a confirmation event is received before a payment method is selected, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT223 to ACT224. The processor 31 controls the communication unit 35 to send a connection failure response, i.e., a negative response (NG), as ACT224, denying connection with the input device 11. This control causes the negative response (NG) signal to be sent to the network 14 via the communication unit 35. The negative response (NG) signal includes an input device ID that identifies the input device 11 that sent the confirmation event. The negative response (NG) signal is received by the input device 11 among the multiple input devices 11 connected to the network 14 that has the input device ID included in the signal set. Processor 31, having sent a negative response (NG) signal, returns to ACT222. Processor 21 waits for one of the payment methods to be selected.

[0116] When a payment method is selected by inputting the cash button BBa, credit button BBb, or electronic money button BBc while in the standby state of ACT222, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT225. The processor 31 obtains the payment type as ACT225. The payment type is payment method identification data that identifies the payment method selected. For example, if the cash button BBa is input, the processor 31 obtains the payment type "cash" as the payment method identification data. If the credit button BBb is input, the processor 31 obtains the payment type "credit" as the payment method identification data. If the electronic money button BBc is input, the processor 31 obtains the payment type "electronic money" as the payment method identification data. Having obtained the payment type, the processor 31 sets the touch panel 38 screen to the accounting screen SBc (see Figure 20) corresponding to the payment type as ACT226.

[0117] Figure 20 shows an example of the display of the accounting screen SBc when the payment type is "cash". The accounting screen SBc includes a total area ABb where the total points and total amount are displayed. The accounting screen SBc also includes software keys for the change button BBd and the staff call button BBe. The accounting screen SBc is a screen that informs the operator of the payment device 12 of the payment method. The operator of the payment device 12 is, in principle, customer 3. Therefore, for example, the text "Cash payment has been selected. Please insert the payment" is displayed on the accounting screen SBc. After seeing this text, customer 3 inserts the cash equivalent to the payment into the automatic change machine.

[0118] Customer 3 who wishes to change their payment method touches the change button BBd. Customer 3 who wishes to call a staff member touches the staff call button BBe. When the staff call button BBe is pressed, a staff call signal is output from the payment device 12 to the input device 11, and an image informing the staff that a customer has called is displayed on the touch panel 28 of the input device 11.

[0119] The processor 31, displaying the accounting screen SBc, waits for either the payment to be completed (ACT227) or for the change button BBd to be pressed (ACT228). If the change button BBd is pressed, the processor 31 returns from ACT228 to ACT221. That is, the processor 31 sets the touch panel 38 screen to the payment method selection screen SBb. The processor 31 then executes the process from ACT222 onwards in the same manner as described above. Therefore, customer 3, who pressed the change button BBd by touch operation, can select a different payment method.

[0120] Incidentally, while in the waiting state of ACT227 and ACT228, the payment device 12 may receive a confirmation event from an input device 11 located in the same checkout lane. Therefore, the processor 31 checks whether or not a confirmation event has been received as ACT229. If a confirmation event is received before payment is completed, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT229 to ACT230. The processor 31 controls the communication unit 35 to send a negative response (NG) as ACT230, denying connection with the input device 11. This control causes a negative response (NG) signal to be sent to the network 14 via the communication unit 35. The negative response (NG) signal includes an input device ID that identifies the input device 11 that sent the confirmation event. The negative response (NG) signal is received by the input device 11 among the multiple input devices 11 connected to the network 14 that has the input device ID included in the signal set. The processor 31 that sent the negative response (NG) signal returns to ACT227. Processor 21 waits for payment to be completed or for the change button BBd to be pressed.

[0121] For example, if the payment type is "cash" and the amount of cash equivalent to the payment is inserted into the automatic change machine, the processor 31 determines that the payment has been completed. For example, if the payment type is "credit" or "electronic money", the processor 31 waits for a payment completion signal from the cashless payment terminal 5. Upon receiving the payment completion signal, the processor 31 determines that the payment has been completed.

[0122] Once payment is complete, processor 31 proceeds from ACT227 to ACT231. Processor 31 operates printer 39 as ACT231 to issue a transaction receipt. The transaction receipt prints the data of the detail record Ra stored in the second transaction file 811, namely the product name, quantity, unit price, and total amount of the purchased items. It also prints the total amount of the purchased items, the payment amount, the change amount, and the transaction number included in the completion event.

[0123] Processor 31, which issued the transaction receipt, proceeds to ACT232. Processor 31 processes the sales of the purchased goods based on the detail record Ra stored in the second transaction file 811 as ACT232. This sales process updates the number of purchased items and the sales amount stored in the sales master file 132.

[0124] After completing the sales processing for the purchased goods, processor 31 proceeds to ACT233. As ACT233, processor 31 clears the second transaction file 811. This clear deletes the detail record Ra that was stored in the second transaction file 811. Processor 31 also changes the status flag Fb of the flag memory 82 from "1" to "0" as ACT234. Furthermore, as ACT235, processor 31 controls the flashing light 40, which was lit blue, to turn off. With this, processor 31 completes the information processing according to the settlement program.

[0125] Thus, in the settlement device 12, where the second transaction file 811 is cleared and the status flag Fb in the flag memory 82 becomes "0", settlement of transactions becomes possible. At this time, the touch panel 38 screen becomes the standby screen SBa. Also, the warning light 40 is off. In this state, when the processor 31 receives a confirmation event from the input device 11, it executes the processing from ACT203 onwards in the same manner as described above.

[0126] Here, processor 31 realizes the function of a settlement-side storage means 71 through the processing of ACT208 and ACT209. Processor 31 realizes the function of an amount display means 72 through the processing of ACT221 and ACT226. Processor 31 realizes the function of a connection response means 73 through the processing of ACT202 and ACT203, ACT223 and ACT224, and furthermore, ACT229 and ACT230. Processor 31 realizes the function of a settlement means 74 through the processing of ACT231 and ACT232.

[0127] This concludes the explanation of the main information processing performed by the processor 21 of the input device 11 and the processor 31 of the payment device 12.

[0128] As detailed above, in the first embodiment, the input device 11, through its functions as a connection destination selection means 51, inquiry means 52, and determination means 53, determines one of the multiple settlement devices 12 as the connection destination before inputting transaction data. When transaction data is input via the input device 61, the input device 11, through its function as a first transmission means 58, transmits the transaction data to the one settlement device 12 determined as the connection destination before detecting an instruction to end the input of the transaction data. When the input device 11 detects an instruction to end the input of the transaction data through its function as a completion detection means 57, it notifies the one settlement device 12 determined as the connection destination that the input has ended. Meanwhile, the settlement device 12, which has been selected as the connection destination, stores the transaction data transmitted from the input device 11 in its settlement-side storage unit 81 as a settlement-side storage means 71 until the transaction is settled. When it receives notification from the input device 11 that it has finished inputting, the settlement device 12 settles the transaction based on the transaction data stored in the settlement-side storage unit 81 as a settlement means.

[0129] Therefore, according to the first embodiment, the input device 11 does not generate settlement information including detailed information and total information of the goods bought and sold and transmit it to the settlement device 12, and an accounting system 1 is provided in which the store clerk 2 and the customer 3 share the operation and settle the transaction.

[0130] Furthermore, the connection destination selection means 51 of the input device 11 includes an operator that can individually specify multiple payment devices. If the input device 11 does not receive a response from the payment device 12 granting permission to connect in response to an inquiry by the inquiry means 52, the input device 11, through its function as an invalidation means 54, invalidates the operation of the operator that specifies the payment device 12.

[0131] Therefore, even if the store clerk 2, who is the operator of the input device 11, selects a payment device 12 that does not respond to authorize the connection, the corresponding operator becomes invalid, and the clerk can immediately select another payment device 12.

[0132] Furthermore, in the payment device 12, which has been selected as the connection destination, the touch panel 38 screen is set to the standby screen SAb until it receives notification from the input device 11 that input has been completed. When it receives notification from the input device 11 that input has been completed, the payment device 12 sets the touch panel 38 screen to the payment method selection screen SBb. In other words, when customer 3 is not present, the touch panel 38 screen in the payment device 12 is the standby screen SAb, and when customer 3 moves to the location where the payment device 12 is installed to make a payment, the screen changes to the payment method selection screen SBb, which includes the settlement amount of the transaction. Therefore, even if the input device 11 sends transaction data to the payment device 12 before it detects the instruction to complete the input of the data related to that transaction, the settlement amount of that transaction will not be displayed on the payment device 12 until customer 3 moves to the location where the payment device 12 is installed to make a payment.

[0133] [Second Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 21 to 30. The second embodiment adds a function to the accounting system 1 of the first embodiment that allows for retrospective modification of the data of purchased goods for a single transaction entered into the input device 11 before the input completion instruction, which is input via the input completion button BAi, is given. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for parts common to the first embodiment, and detailed explanations are omitted.

[0134] Figure 21 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the processor 21 of the input device 11. In addition to connection destination selection means 51, inquiry means 52, determination means 53, invalidation means 54, input side storage means 55, detail display means 56, termination detection means 57, first transmission means 58, first notification means 59, and settlement destination notification means 510, the processor 21 also functions as a modification acceptance means 511, a first modification means 512, and a second transmission means 513.

[0135] The modification acceptance means 511 is a function that accepts modifications to the detail information displayed on the detail screen SAc of the touch panel 28 via the detail display means 56. In the detail area AAb of the detail screen SAc, the product name, quantity, unit price, discount amount, and total amount of the products entered as purchased items in a single transaction are displayed in a list format in the order of a series of record numbers. The modification acceptance means 511 accepts, via the input device 61, the deletion of detail record Ra in the detail area AAb where the product name, quantity, unit price, etc. are displayed, or changes to the quantity, unit price, discount amount, discount rate, etc.

[0136] The first modification means 512 is a function that modifies the transaction data transmitted by the first transmission means 58 to one of the settlement devices 12, i.e., the destination settlement device 120, which has been determined as the connection destination by the determination means 53, before the termination detection means 57 detects an instruction to end the input of the transaction data. The transaction data transmitted to the destination settlement device 120 is stored in the first transaction file 641 as a detail record Ra. The first modification means 512 modifies the detail record Ra stored in the first transaction file 641 in response to input from the input device 61. For example, the first modification means 512 deletes the detail record Ra. For example, the first modification means 512 modifies the unit price, quantity, value discount amount, etc. of the detail record Ra.

[0137] The second transmission means 513 has the function of transmitting the transaction data corrected by the first correction means 512 to the connected settlement device 120 before the termination detection means 57 detects an instruction to end the input of the transaction data.

[0138] Figure 22 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the processor 31 of the payment device 12. In addition to the payment-side storage means 71, amount display means 72, connection response means 73, and payment means 74, the processor 31 also functions as a second modification means 75.

[0139] The second modification means 75 is a function that modifies transaction data stored in the settlement-side storage unit 81 using transaction data transmitted from the input device 11 by the second transmission means 513. The second transaction file 811 of the settlement-side storage unit 81 stores detail records Ra created by the settlement device 12 based on transaction data transmitted from the input device 11 by the first transmission means 58. The second modification means 75 modifies the detail records Ra stored in the second transaction file 811 based on transaction data transmitted from the input device 11 by the second transmission means 513. For example, the second modification means 75 deletes detail records Ra. For example, the second modification means 75 modifies the unit price, quantity, value discount amount, etc. of detail records Ra.

[0140] Next, using the flowcharts in Figures 23 and 24, and the screen examples in Figures 25 to 30, the content and procedures of the information processing related to the second embodiment, among the information processing performed in the input device 11 and settlement device 12 that constitute the accounting system 1, will be explained. Note that the content and procedures of the information processing described below are examples. The content and procedures can be changed as appropriate if similar effects can be achieved. Also, the screen examples are examples. The content of the output text, the arrangement of images, the types and layouts of software keys, etc., can be changed as appropriate.

[0141] First, the essential information processing steps performed by the processor 21 of the input device 11 according to the input program will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 23. In the first embodiment, the flowchart in Figure 23 corresponds to the flowchart in Figure 10. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for processing steps that are common to both Figure 10 and Figure 23.

[0142] In the first embodiment, after updating the details screen SAc in ACT115 or ACT127, the processor 21 entered a waiting state as ACT121 to ACT123 for product code, quantity or value discount data and subtotal button BAd. In the second embodiment, while in the waiting state of ACT121 to ACT123, the processor further entered a waiting state as ACT301 for a product displayed in the details area AAb of the details screen SAc to be selected.

[0143] Figure 25 shows an example of the details screen SAc after data related to the transaction of four purchased items has been entered. Specifically, Figure 25 shows the details screen SAc when the product codes for product AAAAA (unit price 200 yen), product BBBBB (unit price 300 yen), product CCCCC (unit price 400 yen), and product DDDDD (unit price 100 yen) have been entered in order. With this input, the current area AAa displays the product name, quantity, and price of product DDDDD. The details area AAb displays the product name, quantity, unit price, and price of product AAAAA in association with record number "1", the product name, quantity, unit price, and price of product BBBBB in association with record number "2", and the product name, quantity, unit price, and price of product CCCCC in association with record number "3". The total area AAc displays the total points of 4 and the total amount of 1,000 yen.

[0144] At this time, the first transaction file 641 stores the detail records Ra-A for product AAAAA, Ra-B for product BBBBB, Ra-C for product CCCCC, and Ra-D for product DDDDD as a result of the processing in ACT113 and ACT114. In addition, the input events containing the product code for product AAAAA, product BBBBB, product CCCCC, and product DDDDD are sent to the connected settlement device 120 as a result of the processing in ACT111 and ACT112. Each input event is sent to the connected settlement device 120 each time a product code is entered. Upon transmission of these input events, the connected settlement device 120 stores the following detail records in its second transaction file 811: Ra-A for product AAAAA, Ra-B for product BBBBB, Ra-C for product CCCCC, and Ra-D for product DDDDD.

[0145] Let's return to the explanation of Figure 23. Let's assume, for example, that customer 3 requests to return product BBBBB while ACT121 to ACT123 and ACT301 are in standby mode. In this case, store clerk 2, who is the operator of input device 11, selects the row in detail area AAb that displays data related to product BBBBB by touch operation. When a row in detail area AAb is touched in this way, processor 21 determines in ACT301 that a product has been selected.

[0146] If it determines that a product has been selected, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT301 to ACT302. As ACT302, the processor 21 displays the correction screen SAe (see Figure 26) on the touch panel 28.

[0147] Figure 26 shows an example of the display of the editing screen SAe. The editing screen SAe consists of area AAe, which displays the product name of the product selected from the detail area AAb; area AAf, which displays the quantity, unit price, discount amount, and total amount of the product selected from the detail area AAb; and area AAg, which displays operation guidance, etc. The editing screen SAe also includes software keys for the cancel button BAk, quantity change button BAl, unit price change button BAm, discount button BAn, discount button BAo, cancel button BAp, and OK button BAq. Incidentally, it is preferable that the editing screen SAe is displayed as a pop-up overlaid on the detail screen SAc.

[0148] After confirming the correction screen SAe, clerk 2 touches the cancel button BAk. When the cancel button BAk is pressed, a strikethrough appears in the quantity, unit price, discount amount, and total amount of product BBBBB displayed in area AAf, as shown in Figure 27. In addition, the quantity change button BAl, unit price change button BAm, discount button BAn, and discount button BAo are grayed out and cannot be edited. If customer 3 decides not to return product BBBBB, clerk 2 touches the cancel button BAp. If customer 3 decides to confirm the return of product BBBBB, clerk 2 touches the OK button BAq.

[0149] Let's return to the explanation of Figure 23. The processor 21, which displays the correction screen SAe, checks whether the OK button BAq has been entered as ACT303. If the OK button BAq has not been entered, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT303 to ACT304. The processor 21 then checks whether the Cancel button BAp has been entered as ACT304. If the Cancel button BAp has not been entered, the processor 21 returns from ACT304 to ACT303. In this way, the processor 21, which displays the correction screen SAe, waits for either the OK button BAq or the Cancel button BAp to be entered as ACT303 and ACT304.

[0150] If the cancel button BAp is pressed while ACT303 and ACT304 are in standby mode, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT304 to ACT305. The processor 21 then erases the correction screen SAe as ACT305. After that, the processor 21 returns to the standby mode of ACT121 to ACT123 and ACT301. In this way, when the store clerk 2 presses the cancel button BAp, the correction screen SAe is erased. As a result, the screen of the touch panel 28 becomes the details screen SAc shown in Figure 25.

[0151] On the other hand, if the OK button BAq is pressed while ACT303 and ACT304 are in standby mode, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT303 to ACT306. The processor 21 obtains the payment device ID of the connected payment device 120 as ACT306. That is, the processor 21 refers to the first data table 63 and obtains the payment device ID for which the connection destination flag Fa is "1". The processor 21 then controls the communication unit 25 to send a correction event to the payment device ID as ACT307. This control sends the correction event to the network 14 via the communication unit 25. The correction event includes the information entered for the correction screen SAe, which in this case is the information of canceling product BBBBB.

[0152] The processor 21 that sent the correction event corrects the detail record Ra as ACT308. That is, the processor 21 deletes the detail record Ra-B for product BBBBB stored in the first transaction file 641. Then, the processor 21 clears the correction screen SAe as ACT309 and updates the detail screen SAc. After that, the processor 21 returns to the waiting state of ACT121 to ACT123 and ACT301.

[0153] Figure 28 shows an example of the updated details screen SAc display after product BBBBB has been deleted. As shown in Figure 28, the product name, quantity, unit price, value discount, and amount of product BBBBB are removed from the details area AAb. The product name, quantity, unit price, value discount, and amount of product DDDDD, which were displayed in the current area AAa, are then displayed in the details area AAb. The product name, quantity, and amount of product BBBBB are displayed in the current area AAa. A strikethrough is then displayed on the product name, quantity, and amount in the current area AAa. This display allows employee 2 to confirm that product BBBBB has been deleted.

[0154] In the standby state of ACT121 to ACT123 and ACT301, let's consider a case where, for example, the quantity of product BBBBB needs to be changed from "1" to "3". In this case, clerk 2 selects the row displaying the data for product BBBBB in detail area AAb using a touch operation. This touch operation causes processor 21 to execute the process of ACT302. As a result of this process, the correction screen SAe is displayed on touch panel 28, and clerk 2 presses the quantity change button BAl. When the quantity change button BAl is pressed, as shown in Figure 29, the background color of the section displaying the quantity in area AAg is different from the background color of the other sections. This difference in background color allows clerk 2 to recognize that a quantity correction has been instructed. Note that the cancel button BAk, unit price change button BAm, discount button BAn, and discount button BAo are grayed out and cannot be used. Having instructed the quantity correction, clerk 2 uses the numeric keypad on keyboard 26 to enter the corrected quantity "3" and presses the OK button BAq.

[0155] When the OK button BAq is pressed, the processor 21 executes the processes of ACT306 to ACT309. Specifically, the processor 21 sends a correction event to the connected settlement device 120. The correction event includes the information entered on the correction screen SAe, which in this case is the information to correct the quantity of product BBBBB from "1" to "3". The processor 21 also corrects the detail record Ra. Specifically, the processor 21 corrects the quantity in detail record Ra-B of product BBBBB stored in the first transaction file 641 from "1" to "3". The processor 21 also corrects the amount in detail record Ra-B from 300 yen to 900 yen. Finally, the processor 21 updates the detail screen SAc.

[0156] Figure 30 shows the details screen SAc after the quantity of product BBBBB has been corrected from "1" to "3". As shown in Figure 30, the product name of product BBBBB, the corrected quantity, and the corrected amount are displayed in the current area AAa. In the details area AAb, the data for product BBBBB is deleted and the data for product DDDDD is added.

[0157] In the standby state of ACT121 to ACT123 and ACT301, for example, to modify the unit price of product BBBBB, clerk 2 presses the unit price change button BAm on the modification screen SAe, enters the modified unit price using the numeric keypad, and presses the OK button BAq. For example, to modify the discount amount of product BBBBB, clerk 2 presses the discount button BAn on the modification screen SAe, enters the modified discount amount using the numeric keypad, and presses the OK button BAq. For example, to modify the discount rate of product BBBBB, clerk 2 presses the discount button BAo on the modification screen SAe, enters the modified discount rate using the numeric keypad, and presses the OK button BAq.

[0158] These operations cause the processor 21 to execute the processes of ACT306 to ACT309. Specifically, the processor 21 sends a correction event to the connected settlement device 120. The processor 21 also corrects the detail record Ra. Finally, the processor 21 updates the detail screen SAc.

[0159] Subsequently, when the subtotal button Bad is pressed, the processor 21 proceeds to ACT128 in Figure 10. The processor 21 then executes the processing from ACT128 onward in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0160] Here, the processor 21 realizes the function of a correction receiving means 511 through the processing of ACT301 and ACT302. The processor 21 realizes the function of a first correction means 512 through the processing of ACT308. The processor 21 realizes the function of a second transmission means 513 through the processing of ACT306 and ACT307.

[0161] Next, the essential information processing steps performed by the processor 31 of the payment device 12 according to the payment program will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 24. The flowchart in Figure 24 corresponds to the flowchart in Figure 11 in the first embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for processing steps that are common to both Figure 11 and Figure 24.

[0162] Similar to the first embodiment, the processor 31 sets the touch panel 38 screen as the standby screen SBa as ACT201. The processor 31 then waits for an acknowledgment event transmitted from the input device 11 as ACT202. In this waiting state, when the processor 31 receives an acknowledgment event via the communication unit 35, it executes the processes of ACT202 to ACT205. Subsequently, the processor 31 waits for an input event transmitted from the input device 11 as ACT206. In this waiting state, when the processor 31 receives an input event via the communication unit 35, it executes the processes of ACT207 to ACT211. Subsequently, the processor 31 waits for an input event or a completion event as ACT212 and ACT213.

[0163] In the second embodiment, while ACT212 and ACT213 are in a waiting state, the processor 31 further waits for a correction event as ACT401. Upon receiving a correction event, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT401 to ACT402. The processor 31 corrects the detail record Ra stored in the second transaction file 811 as ACT402. Specifically, for example, if the processor 31 receives a correction event that includes information about the cancellation of product BBBBB, it deletes the detail record Ra-B for product BBBBB from the second transaction file 811. If the processor 31 receives a correction event that includes information about correcting the quantity of product BBBBB, it corrects the quantity and amount in detail record Ra-B. If the processor 31 receives a correction event that includes information about correcting the unit price, discount amount, or discount rate of product BBBBB, it corrects the unit price or discount amount and amount in detail record Ra-B.

[0164] Once the modification of the detail record Ra is complete, the processor 31 returns to the waiting state for ACT212, ACT213, and further for ACT401. If a completion event is received in this waiting state, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT221 in Figure 12. Thereafter, the processor 21 executes the processing from ACT221 onwards in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0165] Here, the processor 31 realizes its function as the second modification means 75 through the processing of ACT 402.

[0166] Thus, in the second embodiment as well, the input device 11 does not generate settlement information including detailed information and total information of the purchased goods and transmit it to the settlement device 12, and an accounting system 1 is provided in which the store clerk 2 and the customer 3 share the operation and settle the transaction. Moreover, according to the accounting system 1 of the second embodiment, the data of purchased goods for a transaction entered into the input device 11 can be retrospectively corrected before the input completion instruction, which is the input of the input completion button BAi, is given.

[0167] [Third Embodiment] Next, a third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 31 to 39. The third embodiment adds a function to the accounting system 1 of the first embodiment that, after an input completion instruction is given by inputting the input completion button BAi, returns and modifies the transaction for which the input completion instruction was given. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for parts common to the first embodiment, and detailed explanations are omitted.

[0168] Figure 31 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the processor 21 of the input device 11. In addition to connection destination selection means 51, inquiry means 52, determination means 53, invalidation means 54, input side storage means 55, detail display means 56, termination detection means 57, first transmission means 58, first notification means 59, and settlement destination notification means 510, the processor 21 also functions as cancellation acceptance means 514, cancellation destination selection means 515, second notification means 516, third modification means 517, third transmission means 518, and non-notification means 519.

[0169] The cancellation receiving means 514 is a function that receives a settlement cancellation instruction for a transaction whose input completion has been notified by the first notification means 59. When the cancellation receiving means 514 receives an operation input via the input device 61 that instructs the settlement cancellation of a transaction, it receives a signal corresponding to that operation input as a settlement cancellation instruction signal.

[0170] The cancellation target selection means 515 is a function that selects a payment device 12 from among multiple payment devices 12 to cancel the payment. The cancellation target selection means 515 selects the payment device 12 specified via the input device 61 as the payment device 12 to cancel the payment. Hereinafter, the payment device 12 to cancel the payment will be referred to as the cancellation target payment device 121.

[0171] The second notification means 516 has the function of notifying the cancellation destination settlement device 121 of the cancellation via the communication unit 25 when it receives a settlement cancellation instruction for a transaction from the cancellation acceptance means 514.

[0172] The cancellation destination selection means 515 and the second notification means 516 operate by referring to the second data table 65. As shown in Figure 32, the second data table 65 is a data table that describes the payment device number (No.) and the cancellation destination flag Fc, associated with the payment device ID of the payment device 12 that may be the cancellation destination for the input device 11. In principle, the payment device 12 that may be the cancellation destination are multiple payment devices 12 installed in the same checkout lane as the input device 11. The payment device number is a series of numbers assigned to the payment device 12 identified by the payment device ID. The cancellation destination flag Fc is a 1-bit data for identifying whether the payment device 12 identified by the corresponding payment device ID has been selected as the cancellation destination. In this embodiment, the cancellation destination flag Fc selected as the cancellation destination is set to "1", and the cancellation destination flag Fc not selected as the cancellation destination is set to "0".

[0173] The third modification means 517 is a function that modifies the transaction data stored in the input-side storage unit 64, conditional on the cancellation of the settlement notification receiving a response from the cancellation destination settlement device 121 authorizing the cancellation of the settlement. The data in the first transaction file 641 is copied to the third transaction file 642 when a completion event is sent to the cancellation destination settlement device 121. The third modification means 517 modifies the detail record Ra stored in the third transaction file 642 in response to input from the input device 61. For example, the third modification means 517 deletes the detail record Ra. For example, the third modification means 517 modifies the unit price, quantity, value discount amount, etc. of the detail record Ra.

[0174] The third transmission means 518 has the function of transmitting the transaction data modified by the third modification means 517 to the cancellation settlement device 121 via the communication unit 25. The third transmission means 518 transmits the modified transaction data to the cancellation settlement device 121 each time the transaction data is modified.

[0175] The non-cancellation notification means 519 is a function that notifies that a payment cannot be canceled if there is no acknowledgment from the cancellation destination payment device 121 to the payment cancellation notification. The non-cancellation notification means 519 notifies, for example, by displaying text or an image on the display device 62 indicating that the payment cannot be canceled.

[0176] Figure 32 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the processor 31 of the payment device 12. In addition to the payment-side storage means 71, amount display means 72, connection response means 73, and payment means 74, the processor 31 also functions as a cancellation response means 76 and a fourth modification means 77.

[0177] The cancellation response means 76 is a function that, when it receives a payment cancellation notice from the input device 11 before the transaction is settled by the settlement means 74, returns a response that permits the cancellation of the settlement. If the cancellation response means 76 receives a payment cancellation notice from the input device 11 after the transaction has been settled by the settlement means 74, it does not return a response that permits the cancellation of the settlement.

[0178] The fourth modification means 77 is a function that modifies transaction data stored in the settlement-side storage unit 81 using transaction data transmitted from the input device 11 by the third transmission means 518. The fourth modification means 77 modifies the detail record Ra stored in the second transaction file 811 with transaction data transmitted from the input device 11 by the third transmission means 518. For example, the fourth modification means 77 deletes the detail record Ra. For example, the fourth modification means 77 modifies the unit price, quantity, value discount amount, etc. of the detail record Ra.

[0179] Next, using the flowcharts in Figures 33 to 37 and the screen examples in Figures 38 and 39, the content and procedures of the information processing related to the third embodiment, among the information processing performed in the input device 11 and settlement device 12 that constitute the accounting system 1, will be explained. Note that the content and procedures of the information processing described below are examples. The content and procedures can be changed as appropriate if similar effects can be achieved. Also, the screen examples are examples. The content of the output text, the arrangement of images, the types and layouts of software keys, etc., can be changed as appropriate.

[0180] First, the essential steps of the information processing performed by the processor 21 of the input device 11 according to the input program will be explained using flowcharts in Figures 34 to 36. The flowchart in Figure 34 corresponds to the flowchart in Figure 10 in the first embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for processing steps that are common to both Figure 10 and Figure 35. The flowchart in Figure 35 corresponds to the flowchart in Figure 9 in the first embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for processing steps that are common to both Figure 9 and Figure 35.

[0181] As shown in Figure 34, in the third embodiment, some of the processing steps after the input completion button BAi is pressed differ from those in the first embodiment. Specifically, when the input completion button BAi is pressed, the processor 21 issues a transaction number as ACT132. The processor 21 also obtains the settlement device ID of the connected settlement device 120 as ACT133. The processor 21 then controls the communication unit 25 to send a completion event to the settlement device ID as the destination as ACT134. The processor 21 also notifies the settlement device 12 to which the completion event is to be sent as ACT135.

[0182] Having thus notified the settlement device 12 to which the completion event will be sent, the processor 21 proceeds to ACT501. As ACT501, the processor 21 copies all detail records Ra stored in the first transaction file 641 to the third transaction file 642. After that, the processor 21 clears the first transaction file 641 as ACT136. The processor 21 also refers to the first data table 63 as ACT137 and changes the connection destination flag Fa, which was set to "1", to "0". With this, the processor 21 completes the information processing according to the input program.

[0183] Thus, in this third embodiment, once the processor 21 has finished sending a completion event to the connected settlement device 120, it copies all the detail records Ra stored in the first transaction file 641 to the third transaction file 642 and clears the first transaction file 641. Therefore, the third transaction file 642 stores the detail records Ra of the transactions to be settled by the connected settlement device 120 that sent the completion event. Meanwhile, the first transaction file 641 is cleared and all the connection destination flags Fa become "0", so the input device 11 can input data related to the next customer transaction.

[0184] The processor 21 of the input device 11, which is now ready to input data related to the next customer transaction, begins information processing according to the procedure shown in the flowchart of Figure 35. Specifically, the processor 21, as ACT511, sets the screen of the touch panel 28 to the connection destination selection screen SAf (see Figure 39).

[0185] Figure 39 shows an example of the display of the connection destination selection screen SAf in the third embodiment. The difference between the connection destination selection screen SAf and the connection destination selection screen SAa in the first embodiment is the addition of a software key for the payment modification button BAr. If customer 3, who has moved to the payment device 12, requests a modification to their transaction before completing the settlement of their transaction, the store clerk 2 inputs the payment modification button BAr by touch operation. This modification may occur, for example, if there is an error in the quantity of goods or if a discount has not been applied. Alternatively, it may also occur if customer 3 cancels the transaction.

[0186] Let's return to the explanation of Figure 35. Processor 21, displaying the connection selection screen SAf, proceeds to ACT512. Processor 21 checks whether a payment device number has been entered as ACT512. If no payment device number has been entered, processor 21 proceeds from ACT512 to ACT513. Processor 21 checks whether the payment modification button BAr has been entered as ACT513. If the payment modification button BAr has not been entered, processor 21 returns from ACT513 to ACT512. In this way, processor 21, displaying the connection selection screen SAf, waits for either a payment device number to be entered as ACT512 or ACT513, or for the payment modification button BAr to be entered.

[0187] When a payment device number is entered while ACT512 and ACT513 are in the waiting state, processor 21 proceeds from ACT512 to ACT103. Processor 21 executes the processing from ACT103 onward in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0188] If the payment modification button BAr is pressed while ACT512 and ACT513 are in standby mode, processor 21 proceeds from ACT513 to ACT514. Processor 21, as ACT514, waits for the payment device number to be entered via the connection destination selection screen SAf.

[0189] The store clerk who pressed the payment correction button BAr then touches either the first button BAa or the second button BAb, which is assigned the payment device number of the payment device 12 that customer 3, who requested the correction, was trying to settle the transaction with.

[0190] In ACT514, the processor 21 confirms that the payment device number has been entered and proceeds to ACT515. In ACT515, the processor 21 refers to the second data table 65 and obtains the payment device ID associated with the payment device number. Then, in ACT516, the processor 21 controls the communication unit 25 to send a payment cancellation event to that payment device ID. This control causes the payment cancellation event to be sent to the network 14 via the communication unit 25. The payment cancellation event is received by one of the multiple payment devices 12 connected to the network 14 that has the payment device ID set as the destination for the payment cancellation event. The payment device 12 that receives the payment cancellation event, i.e., the cancellation destination payment device 121, sends back a signal either an affirmative response (OK) allowing the cancellation of the payment, or a negative response (NG) rejecting the cancellation of the payment.

[0191] The processor 21, which sent the payment cancellation event, proceeds from ACT516 to ACT517. As ACT517, the processor 21 waits for an acknowledgment (OK) from the payment device 121 to be cancelled. If an acknowledgment (OK) signal is not received within a certain time in this waiting state, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT517 to ACT518. As ACT518, the processor 21 notifies that the payment cannot be cancelled. For example, the processor 21 notifies by displaying text or an image on the touch panel 28 indicating that the payment cannot be cancelled. With this, the processor 21 terminates the information processing according to the input program.

[0192] In ACT517, if an acknowledgment (OK) signal is received within a certain time, the processor 21 proceeds to ACT519. As ACT519, the processor 21 copies all detail records Ra stored in the third transaction file 642 to the first transaction file 641. Then, as ACT520, the processor 21 clears the third transaction file 642. Also, as ACT521, the processor 21 changes the cancellation flag Fc, which is associated with the settlement device ID of the settlement device 12 that sent the acknowledgment (OK), i.e., the cancellation destination settlement device 121, and is described in the second data table 65, from "0" to "1". After that, as ACT520, the processor 21 sets the touch panel screen to the second detail screen SAg (see Figure 40) based on the data of the detail records Ra copied to the first transaction file 641.

[0193] Figure 40 shows an example of the display of the second detail screen SAg. Compared to the detail screen SAc displayed in ACT109 (see Figure 16), the second detail screen SAg has the addition of a software key batch cancel button BAs. Also, the subtotal button BAd has been changed to a complete button BAt. Furthermore, the detail area AAb of the second detail screen SAg displays the product name, quantity, value discount amount, and amount of the detail record Ra copied to the first transaction file 641, and the total area AAc displays the total points and total amount of the same detail record Ra. In addition, the second detail screen SAg displays the identification name NAb of the cancellation destination settlement device 121 selected by the connection destination selection screen SAf. For reference, the second detail screen SAg in Figure 40 is an example screen where settlement device 12(12-1) is selected as the cancellation destination settlement device 121, and [Settlement Device 1] is displayed as the identification name NAb.

[0194] After displaying the second detail screen SAg, the processor 21 proceeds to ACT531 in Figure 36. The processor 21 checks whether the batch cancel button BAs has been entered as ACT531. If the batch cancel button BAs has not been entered, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT531 to ACT532. The processor 21 checks whether the product displayed in the detail area AAb of the second detail screen SAg has been selected as ACT532. If no product has been selected, the processor 21 returns to ACT531. In this way, the processor 21 waits for the batch cancel button BAs to be entered or for a product to be selected as ACT531 and ACT532.

[0195] If customer 3 requests to cancel the transaction, clerk 2 presses the "cancel all" button BAs. If the customer requests to delete purchased items or modify the quantity, unit price, discount amount, or discount rate, clerk 2 touches the row in detail area AAb where the product name, etc., of the relevant purchased item is displayed.

[0196] When the batch cancellation button BAs is pressed while ACT531 and ACT532 are in the waiting state, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT531 to ACT533. The processor 21 obtains the payment device ID of the cancellation destination payment device 121 as ACT533. That is, the processor 21 refers to the second data table 65 and obtains the payment device ID for which the cancellation destination flag Fc is "1". The processor 21 then controls the communication unit 25 to send a batch cancellation event to the payment device ID as the destination as ACT534. This control sends the batch cancellation event to the network 14 via the communication unit 25. The batch cancellation event is received by the cancellation destination payment device 121, which is one of the multiple payment devices 12 connected to the network 14 and has the payment device ID set as the destination for the batch cancellation event. The batch cancellation event includes the payment device ID obtained in the processing of ACT515.

[0197] Processor 21, which sent the batch cancellation event, proceeds to ACT535. Processor 21 clears the first transaction file 641 as ACT535. Processor 21 also refers to the second data table 65 as ACT536 and changes the cancellation destination flag Fc, which was set to "1", to "0". With this, Processor 21 completes the information processing according to the input program.

[0198] When ACT531 and ACT532 are in standby mode, if it is determined that a product has been selected, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT532 to ACT537. The processor 21 displays the correction screen SAe (see Figure 26) on the touch panel 28 as ACT537. The correction screen SAe is the same as the correction screen SAe described in the second embodiment. The information processing by the processor 21 in response to the operation input of the store clerk 2 on this correction screen SAe is also the same as in the second embodiment.

[0199] In other words, the processor 21, which displays the correction screen SAe, waits for either the OK button BAq to be input as ACT538 or the Cancel button BAp to be input as ACT539. If the Cancel button BAp is input while waiting for ACT538 or ACT539, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT539 to ACT540. The processor 21 clears the correction screen SAe as ACT540. After that, the processor 21 proceeds to ACT545.

[0200] On the other hand, if the OK button BAq is pressed while ACT538 and ACT539 are in a waiting state, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT538 to ACT541. The processor 21 obtains the payment device ID of the cancellation destination payment device 121 as ACT541. That is, the processor 21 refers to the second data table 65 and obtains the payment device ID for which the cancellation destination flag Fc is "1". The processor 21 then controls the communication unit 25 to send a correction event to the payment device ID as the destination as ACT542. This control sends the correction event to the network 14 via the communication unit 25. The correction event is received by the cancellation destination payment device 121, which is the destination of the correction event, among the multiple payment devices 12 connected to the network 14. The correction event includes the information entered for the correction screen SAe. For example, if the cancel button BAk is pressed on the correction screen SAe, the processor 31 includes the information that the selected product has been canceled. For example, if the quantity change button BAl on the modification screen SAe is pressed, and then the modified quantity is entered, the processor 31 includes information that the quantity of the selected product will be corrected to the modified quantity. Similarly, if the unit price change button BAm, the discount button BAn, or the discount button BAo on the modification screen SAe is pressed, the processor 31 includes information that the unit price, discount amount, or discount rate of the selected product will be corrected.

[0201] Processor 21, which sent the modification event, proceeds to ACT543. Processor 21 modifies the detail record Ra stored in the first transaction file 641 as ACT543. For example, if the cancel button BAk is entered on the modification screen SAe, processor 31 deletes the detail record Ra of the selected product. For example, if the quantity change button BAl is entered on the modification screen SAe, and then the modified quantity is entered, processor 31 modifies the quantity and amount of the detail record Ra of the selected product. If the unit price change button BAm, discount button BAn, or discount button BAo are entered on the modification screen SAe, processor 31 modifies the unit price, discount amount or discount rate and amount of the detail record Ra of the selected product, similar to when the quantity change button BAl is entered. Then processor 21 clears the modification screen SAe as ACT544 and updates the second detail screen SAg. After that, processor 21 proceeds to ACT545.

[0202] Thus, if the correction screen SAe is cleared in ACT540, or the second detail screen SAg is updated in ACT544, the processor 21 proceeds to ACT545. As ACT545, the processor 21 checks whether the product displayed in the detail area AAb of the second detail screen SAg has been selected. If no product has been selected, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT545 to ACT546. As ACT546, the processor 21 checks whether the complete button BAt has been entered. If the complete button BAt has not been entered, the processor 21 returns from ACT546 to ACT545. In this way, the processor 21 waits for a product to be selected or for the complete button BAt to be entered as ACT545 and ACT546.

[0203] If a product is selected while ACT545 and ACT546 are in standby mode, processor 21 returns from ACT545 to ACT537. Then processor 21 executes the processing of ACT537 through ACT544 in the same manner as described above.

[0204] On the other hand, if the completion button BAt is pressed while ACT545 and ACT546 are in the waiting state, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT546 to ACT547. The processor 21 obtains the payment device ID of the cancellation destination payment device 121 as ACT547. That is, the processor 21 refers to the second data table 65 and obtains the payment device ID for which the cancellation destination flag Fc is "1". The processor 21 then controls the communication unit 25 to send a correction completion event as ACT548, with the payment device ID as the destination. This control sends the correction completion event to the network 14 via the communication unit 25. The correction completion event includes the payment device ID obtained in ACT547.

[0205] The processor 21, which sent the correction completion event, proceeds to ACT549. The processor 21 notifies that the transaction correction is complete as ACT549. For example, the processor 21 notifies the customer by displaying a message on the customer display 29 indicating that the transaction correction is complete. Upon confirming this notification, customer 3 moves to the location of the settlement device 12 where the settlement was interrupted and completes the settlement.

[0206] Upon notifying that the transaction correction is complete, processor 21 proceeds to ACT550. Processor 21 clears the first transaction file 641 as ACT550. Processor 21 also refers to the second data table 65 as ACT551 and changes the cancellation destination flag Fc, which was set to "1", to "0". With this, processor 21 completes the information processing according to the input program.

[0207] Here, processor 21 realizes the function of cancellation reception means 514 through processing of ACT511 to ACT513. Processor 21 realizes the function of cancellation destination selection means 515 through processing of ACT514. Processor 21 realizes the function of second notification means 516 through processing of ACT515 and ACT516. Processor 21 realizes the function of third modification means 517 through processing of ACT535 and ACT543. Processor 21 realizes the function of third transmission means 518 through processing of ACT533 and ACT534, and processing of ACT541 and ACT542. Processor 21 realizes the function of non-notification means 519 through processing of ACT518.

[0208] Next, the essential information processing steps performed by the processor 31 of the payment device 12 according to the payment program will be explained using flowcharts in Figures 37 and 38. The processing steps shown in the flowchart of Figure 37 correspond to the processing steps from ACT221 onwards in Figure 12 in the first embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for processing steps that are common to both Figure 12 and Figure 38.

[0209] In ACT221, the processor 31, which displays the payment method selection screen SBb, waits for a payment method to be selected as ACT222. In the third embodiment, during this waiting state, the payment device 12 may receive a payment cancellation event from the input device 11 located in the same checkout lane. The processor 31 then checks whether or not a payment cancellation event has been received as ACT601. If a payment cancellation event is received before a payment method is selected, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT601 to ACT611 in Figure 38.

[0210] Furthermore, in ACT226, the processor 31, which displays the accounting screen SBc, waits for either the payment to be completed (ACT227) or for the change button BBd to be pressed (ACT228). In the third embodiment, even in this waiting state, the payment device 12 may receive a payment cancellation event from the input device 11 located in the same checkout lane. Therefore, the processor 31 checks whether or not a payment cancellation event has been received (ACT602). If a payment cancellation event is received before the payment is completed, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT602 to ACT611 in Figure 38.

[0211] In this manner, if a payment cancellation event is received before the payment method is entered or before payment is completed, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT611. As ACT611, the processor 31 sends a response to the input device 11 that sent the payment cancellation event, granting permission to cancel the payment, i.e., an acknowledgment (OK) signal. After that, as ACT612, the processor 31 checks whether or not a modification event has been received. If no modification event has been received, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT612 to ACT613. As ACT613, the processor 31 checks whether or not a modification completion event has been received. If no modification completion event has been received, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT613 to ACT614. As ACT614, the processor 31 checks whether or not a bulk cancellation event has been received. If no bulk cancellation event has been received, the processor 31 returns from ACT614 to ACT612. In this way, the processor 31 waits in ACT612 through ACT614 for a modification event, a modification completion event, or a bulk cancellation event to be received.

[0212] If a modification event is received while the system is in the waiting state for ACT612 to ACT614, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT612 to ACT615. The processor 31 modifies the data of the detail record Ra stored in the second transaction file 811 as ACT615 based on the information contained in the modification event. This modification is the same as the processing of ACT402 described in the second embodiment, so a detailed explanation is omitted here. After completing the modification of the detail record Ra, the processor 31 returns to ACT612 and again enters a waiting state for modification events, modification completion events, and batch cancellation events.

[0213] If a correction completion event is received while in the waiting state of ACT612 to ACT614, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT613 to ACT221 in Figure 37. The processor 31 then executes the processing from ACT221 onward in the same manner as described above.

[0214] If a batch cancellation event is received while in the waiting state of ACT612 to ACT614, processor 31 proceeds from ACT614 to ACT616. Processor 31 clears the second transaction file 811 as ACT616. With this, processor 31 terminates the information processing according to the settlement program.

[0215] Here, the processor 31 realizes the function of a cancellation response means 76 by processing ACT 611. The processor 31 realizes the function of a fourth modification means 77 by processing ACT 615 and ACT 616.

[0216] Thus, in the third embodiment as well, the input device 11 does not generate settlement information including detailed information and total information of the goods bought and sold and transmit it to the settlement device 12, and an accounting system 1 is provided in which the store clerk 2 and the customer 3 share the operation and settle the transaction. Moreover, according to the accounting system 1 of the third embodiment, after an input completion instruction is given, which is the input of the input completion button BAi, the transaction for which the input completion instruction was given can be returned and corrected.

[0217] [Fourth Embodiment] Next, a fourth embodiment will be described using Figures 41 to 50. The fourth embodiment is an addition to the accounting system 1 of the first embodiment, with the addition of gift certificates as a payment method. Therefore, parts common to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed explanations are omitted.

[0218] Gift certificates are an example of monetary voucher products. In this embodiment, there are two types of gift certificates: one with a face value of 500 yen and another with a face value of 1000 yen. Each gift certificate is assigned a unique gift certificate code, similar to other products, and a barcode representing that gift certificate code is printed on it. A data record for the gift certificates, created in the same format as the product record, is stored in the product master file 131. The data record for the gift certificates describes the gift certificate code as the product code, the gift certificate name as the product name, and the face value as the unit price.

[0219] Figure 41 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the processor 21 of the input device 11. In addition to connection destination selection means 51, inquiry means 52, determination means 53, invalidation means 54, input side storage means 55, detail display means 56, completion detection means 57, first transmission means 58, first notification means 59, and settlement destination notification means 510, the processor 21 also has functions as a voucher identification means 520, calculation means 521, and completion notification means 522.

[0220] The voucher identification means 520 has the function of identifying whether the transaction data entered via the input device 61 is data relating to a transaction of a voucher product or data relating to a transaction of a product other than a voucher product. As mentioned above, a barcode representing the voucher code is printed on the voucher. By scanning this barcode with the scanner 27 of the input device 61, the voucher code is entered as transaction data. When the transaction data is a voucher code, the voucher identification means 520 identifies that the transaction data is data relating to a transaction of a voucher product. When the transaction data is a product code, the voucher identification means 520 identifies that the transaction data is data relating to a transaction of a product other than a voucher product.

[0221] When the input-side storage means 55 receives transaction data, it creates a detail record Rb for the goods or gift certificates to be sold as a single transaction based on the input data. As shown in Figure 42, the detail record Rb is a record that describes data for items such as gift certificate code, gift certificate name, face value, quantity, amount, and gift certificate flag Fd, associated with a series of record numbers. The gift certificate flag Fd is a value that identifies whether the record is a detail record Rb for gift certificates or a detail record Rb for goods other than gift certificates. In this embodiment, the value of the gift certificate flag Fd indicating that it is a detail record Rb for gift certificates is set to "1", and the value of the gift certificate flag Fd indicating that it is a detail record Rb for goods other than gift certificates is set to "0". When the data related to a transaction entered via the input device 61 is identified by the gift certificate identification means 520 as data related to a gift certificate product transaction, the input-side storage means 55 creates a detail record Rb with the value of the gift certificate flag Fd set to "1", i.e., a detail record Rb for gift certificates. When the input-side storage means 55 determines that the transaction data entered via the input device 61 is data relating to a transaction of a product other than a gift certificate by the gift certificate identification means 520, it creates a detail record Rb, i.e., a detail record Rb for a product other than a gift certificate, with the value of the gift certificate flag Fd set to "0". The input-side storage means 55 stores the detail record Rb of the gift certificate or the product other than a gift certificate in the first transaction file 641 of the input-side storage unit 64.

[0222] The calculation means 521 is a function that calculates the total transaction amount by treating the sales price of goods other than gift certificates as a positive value, and the face value of gift certificates as a negative value, among the transaction data stored in the first transaction file 641 of the input-side storage unit 64. The calculation means 521 displays the calculated total amount on the display device 62.

[0223] The completion notification means 522 is a function that notifies payment completion when the total transaction amount calculated by the calculation means 521 is 0 or a negative value at the time the completion detection means 57 detects the end of input instruction for transaction-related data. The completion notification means 522 notifies payment completion using, for example, a display device 62.

[0224] Figure 43 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the processor 31 of the payment device 12. In addition to the payment-side storage means 71, amount display means 72, connection response means 73, and payment means 74, the processor 31 also functions as a voucher identification means 78 and a receipt output means 79.

[0225] The voucher identification means 78 has the function of identifying whether the transaction data stored in the settlement-side storage unit 81 is data relating to a transaction of a voucher product or data relating to a transaction of a product other than a voucher product. Similar to the voucher identification means 520 of the input device 11, the voucher identification means 78 identifies that the transaction data is data relating to a transaction of a voucher product when the transaction data is a voucher code. The voucher identification means 78 identifies that the transaction data is data relating to a transaction of a product other than a voucher product when the transaction data is a product code.

[0226] The second transaction file 811 of the settlement-side storage unit 81 stores the detail records created by the settlement-side storage means 71. These detail records have the same format as the detail records Rb created by the input-side storage means 55 and stored in the first transaction file 641 of the input-side storage unit 64. When the transaction data transmitted from the input device 11 and received via the communication unit 35 is identified by the voucher identification means 78 as data relating to a voucher product transaction, the settlement-side storage means 71 creates a detail record Rb with the value of the voucher flag Fd set to "1", i.e., a detail record Rb for a voucher. When the transaction data transmitted from the input device 11 and received via the communication unit 35 is identified by the voucher identification means 78 as data relating to a product other than a voucher product, the settlement-side storage means 71 creates a detail record Rb with the value of the voucher flag Fd set to "0", i.e., a detail record Rb for a product other than a voucher. The settlement-side storage means 71 stores the details record Rb of the gift certificate or other goods in the second transaction file 811 of the settlement-side storage unit 81.

[0227] The receipt output means 79 is a function that outputs a receipt for a transaction settled by the payment means 74, which shows the face value of the gift certificate separately from the total amount of sales of goods other than the gift certificate. The receipt may be printed on paper or output as an electronic receipt to an information terminal such as a smartphone.

[0228] Next, using the flowcharts in Figures 44 to 47, the screen examples in Figures 48 and 49, and the receipt example in Figure 50, the content and procedures of the information processing related to the fourth embodiment, which is performed in the input device 11 and payment device 12 that constitute the accounting system 1, will be explained. Note that the content and procedures of the information processing described below are examples. The content and procedures can be changed as appropriate if similar effects can be achieved. Also, the screen examples and receipt examples are examples. The content of the output text, the arrangement of images, the types and layouts of software keys, etc., can be changed as appropriate.

[0229] First, the essential steps of the information processing performed by the processor 21 of the input device 11 according to the input program will be explained using the flowcharts in Figures 44 and 45. The flowchart in Figure 44 corresponds to the flowchart in Figure 9 in the first embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for processing steps that are common to both Figure 9 and Figure 45. The flowchart in Figure 45 corresponds to the flowchart in Figure 10 in the first embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for processing steps that are common to both Figure 10 and Figure 45.

[0230] In ACT110 in Figure 44 or ACT121 in Figure 45, when the product code of the purchased item is entered, the processor 21 executes the processing of ACT111 to ACT113, similar to the first embodiment. That is, the processor 21 obtains the payment device ID of the connected payment device 12 and controls the communication unit 25 to send an input event containing the product code of the purchased item to this payment device ID. The processor 21 also creates a detail record Rb. That is, the processor 21 accesses the server 13 and obtains a data record containing the entered product code from the product master file 131. Then, based on the product information such as product name and unit price described in the data record, the processor 21 creates a detail record Ra consisting of item data such as record number r, product code, product name, unit price, quantity, value discount amount, and amount.

[0231] On the other hand, if the gift certificate code of a gift certificate is entered in ACT110 in Figure 44 or ACT121 in Figure 45, the processor 21 executes the processing of ACT111 to ACT113. That is, the processor 21 obtains the payment device ID of the connected payment device 12 and controls the communication unit 25 to send an input event containing the gift certificate code of the gift certificate to this payment device ID. The processor 21 also creates a detail record Rb. That is, the processor 21 accesses the server 13 and obtains a data record containing the entered gift certificate code from the product master file 131. Then, based on the information such as the gift certificate name and face value described in the data record, the processor 21 creates a detail record Rb consisting of item data such as record number r, product code (gift certificate code), product name (gift certificate name), unit price (face value), quantity, and amount. The product code of the detail record Rb is the gift certificate code. The product name is the gift certificate name.

[0232] After completing the processing of ACT113, the processor 21 proceeds to ACT701. As ACT701, the processor 21 identifies whether the detail record Rb is a detail record for a product or a detail record for a gift certificate. If the product code contained in the detail record Rb is a gift certificate code, the processor 21 recognizes it as a detail record Rb for a gift certificate. If the product code contained in the detail record Rb is a code other than a gift certificate code, the processor 21 recognizes it as a detail record Rb for a product other than a gift certificate.

[0233] If the detail record Rb is a detail record for a product other than a gift certificate, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT701 to ACT702. As ACT702, the processor 21 sets the gift certificate flag Fd of the detail record Rb to "0".

[0234] In contrast, if the detail record Rb is a detail record for a gift certificate, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT701 to ACT703. As ACT703, the processor 21 sets the gift certificate flag Fd of the detail record Rb to "1". Also, as ACT704, the processor 21 adds a minus sign to the amount of the detail record Rb.

[0235] After completing the processing of ACT702 or ACT704, the processor 21 proceeds to ACT114. The processor 21 then performs the processing of ACT114 and ACT115 in the same manner as in the first embodiment. That is, the processor 21 stores the detail record Rb in the first transaction file 641. The processor 21 then updates the detail screen SAc.

[0236] Figure 48 shows the details screen SAc after scanning the barcode of a gift certificate with a face value of 1000 yen with scanner 27. As shown in the figure, the current area AAa displays the name, quantity, and face value of the gift certificate. The face value is accompanied by a minus sign.

[0237] After completing the processing of ACT115, the processor 21 enters a waiting state for ACT121 to ACT123. In this waiting state, when the barcode of a product or gift certificate is scanned, the processor 21 executes the processing of ACT111 to ACT113, ACT701 to ACT704, and furthermore, ACT114 and ACT115, in the same manner as described above.

[0238] In the standby state of ACT121 to ACT123, if the subtotal button BAd is input, the processor 21 sets the screen of the touch panel 28 to the subtotal plane SAd, similar to the first embodiment. The processor 21 then waits for the input of the return to details button BAj or the input complete button BAi in ACT129 and ACT130.

[0239] When the input completion button BAi is pressed while ACT129 and ACT130 are in the waiting state, processor 21 proceeds from ACT130 to ACT711. Processor 21 calculates the total amount as ACT711 and checks whether it is a positive value or not. The total amount is the sum of the amounts of all detail records Rb stored in the first transaction file 641. The amount of the detail record Rb for goods is a positive value, but the amount of the detail record Rb for gift certificates is a negative value in the processing of ACT704. Therefore, the total amount is not necessarily a positive amount and may be 0 yen or a negative amount.

[0240] If the total amount is positive, payment is required. In this case, processor 21 proceeds from ACT711 to ACT132. Then processor 21 executes the processing of ACT132 to ACT137 in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0241] In contrast, if the total amount is 0 yen or a negative amount, payment has been completed using the gift certificate. In this case, processor 21 proceeds from ACT711 to ACT712. Processor 31 sets the screen of the touch panel 28 to the payment completion screen SAh (see Figure 49) as ACT712.

[0242] Figure 49 shows an example of the payment completion screen SAh. The payment completion screen SAh is the subtotal discount button BAg, the subtotal discount button BAh, and the return to details button BAj, removed from the subtotal discount screen SAd. The payment completion screen SAh displays text indicating that payment has been completed using a gift certificate. For example, the payment completion screen SAh in Figure 49 is shown when customer 3, who purchased four items totaling 1000 yen, presents a gift certificate with a face value of 1000 yen, as shown in the details screen SAc in Figure 48. In this case, the total amount is 0 yen, so there is no payment to be made. However, a receipt is issued by the payment device 12. Therefore, the processor 21 that displayed the payment completion screen SAh proceeds to ACT 132. The processor 21 then executes the processing of ACT 132 to ACT 137 in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0243] Here, processor 21 realizes the function of a voucher identification means 520 through the processing of ACT 701. Processor 21 realizes the function of an arithmetic means 521 through the processing of ACT 711. Processor 21 realizes the function of a completion notification means 522 through the processing of ACT 712.

[0244] Next, the essential information processing steps performed by the processor 31 of the payment device 12 according to the payment program will be explained using flowcharts in Figures 46 and 47. The processing steps shown in the flowchart of Figure 46 correspond to the flowchart of Figure 11 in the first embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for processing steps that are common to both Figure 11 and Figure 47. The processing steps shown in the flowchart of Figure 47 correspond to the flowchart of Figure 12 in the first embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for processing steps that are common to both Figure 12 and Figure 47.

[0245] As explained using Figure 44, the payment device 12 receives an input event from the input device 11 that includes a product code or gift certificate code. When the processor 31 of the payment device 12 receives the input event including a product code or gift certificate code from the input device 11 in ACT207 in Figure 46, it proceeds from ACT207 to ACT209. The processor 31 creates a detail record Rb as ACT209.

[0246] In other words, when an input event containing a product code is received, the processor 31 accesses the server 13 and retrieves a data record containing the product code from the product master file 131. Then, the processor 21 creates a detail record Ra consisting of item data such as record number r, product code, product name, unit price, quantity, value discount amount, and amount, based on the product information such as product name and unit price described in that data record.

[0247] Even when the processor 21 receives an input event including a gift certificate code, it accesses the server 13 to obtain a data record including the gift certificate code from the product master file 131. Then, based on information such as the gift certificate name and face value amount described in the data record, the processor 21 creates a detail record Rb consisting of item data such as record number r, product code (gift certificate code), product name (gift certificate name), unit price (face value amount), quantity, and amount.

[0248] After finishing the processing of ACT209, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT801. As ACT801, the processor 31 identifies whether the detail record Rb is a product detail record or a gift certificate detail record. If the product code included in the detail record Rb is a gift certificate code, the processor 31 recognizes it as the gift certificate detail record Rb. If the product code included in the detail record Rb is a code other than the gift certificate code, the processor 31 recognizes it as the detail record Rb of a product other than the gift certificate.

[0249] If the detail record Rb is a product detail record, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT801 to ACT802. As ACT802, the processor 31 sets the gift certificate flag Fd of the detail record Rb to "0".

[0250] On the other hand, if the detail record Rb is a gift certificate detail record, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT801 to ACT803. As ACT803, the processor 31 sets the gift certificate flag Fd of the detail record Rb to "1". Also, as ACT804, the processor 31 attaches a minus sign to the amount of the detail record Rb.

[0251] After finishing the processing of ACT802 or ACT804, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT210. As ACT210, the processor 31 stores the detail record Ra in the second transaction file 811. Then, the processor 31 enters the waiting states of ACT212 and ACT213.

[0252] In the waiting states of ACT212 and ACT213, when an input event is received, the processor 31 returns from ACT212 to ACT207. Then, the processor 31 executes the processing after ACT207 in the same manner as described above. That is, when an input event including a product code is received, the processor 31 creates a detail record Rb with the product coupon flag Fd being "0" and stores the detail record Rb in the second transaction file 811. When an input event including a product coupon code is received, the processor 31 creates a detail record Rb with the product coupon flag Fd being "1" and stores the detail record Rb in the second transaction file 811.

[0253] In the waiting states of ACT212 and ACT213, when a completion event is received, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT213 to ACT811 in FIG. 45. The processor 21 calculates the total amount as ACT811 and checks whether it is a positive value. The total amount is the sum of the amounts of all the detail records Rb stored in the second transaction file 811. The amount of the detail record Rb of the product is a positive value, but the amount of the detail record Rb of the product coupon is a negative value. Therefore, the total amount is not necessarily a positive amount and may be 0 yen or a negative amount.

[0254] When the total amount is a positive amount, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT811 to ACT221. Then, the processor 31 executes the processing from ACT221 to ACT235 in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0255] On the contrary, when the total amount is 0 or a negative amount, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT811 to ACT231. That is, the processor 31 skips the processing from ACT221 to ACT230. Therefore, the customer 3 does not pay the price. After that, the processor 21 executes the processing from ACT231 to ACT235 in the same manner as in the first embodiment. Therefore, a receipt RS (see FIG. 50) is issued, and the customer 3 receives the receipt RS.

[0256] Figure 50 shows an example of a receipt RS issued to a customer who presents a gift certificate with a face value of 1,000 yen for a purchase totaling 1,000 yen. As shown in Figure 50, the receipt RS has the details of the four purchased items printed on it, followed by the total amount of 1,000 yen, and then the face value of the gift certificate, 1,000 yen, printed with a minus sign. With such a receipt RS, customer 3 can confirm that they paid for the purchased items with a gift certificate.

[0257] Here, processor 31 realizes the function of a gift certificate identification means 78 through processing of ACT 801. Processor 31 also realizes the function of a receipt output means 79 through processing of ACT 231.

[0258] Thus, in the fourth embodiment as well, the input device 11 does not generate settlement information including detailed information and total information of the goods bought and sold and transmit it to the settlement device 12, and an accounting system 1 is provided in which the store clerk 2 and the customer 3 share the operation and settle the transaction. Moreover, according to the fourth embodiment, an accounting system 1 is provided that also supports monetary vouchers such as gift certificates that require the intervention of a store clerk as a method of payment.

[0259] [Other embodiments] Figure 51 shows another embodiment of the connection destination selection screen SAi. The connection destination selection screen SAi includes a numeric keypad with numbers "0" through "9" BAu for manually entering the payment device number, a confirmation button BAv, and a clear button BAw, all as software keys. The connection destination selection screen SAi also includes a field AAi for displaying the payment device number entered by the numeric keypad button BAu.

[0260] After confirming the connection destination selection screen SAi, employee 2 enters the payment device number of an available payment device 12 using the numeric keypad button BAu and touches the confirmation button BAv. If the entry is incorrect, employee 2 touches the clear button BAw to clear the entry. When the confirmation button BAv is touched, the processor 21 inputs the value entered in ACT102 in Figure 9 as the payment device number. Thereafter, the processor 21 executes the processes from ACT103 onwards in the same manner as described above. Thus, the input device 11 may use the connection destination selection screen SAi instead of the connection destination selection screen SAa.

[0261] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which customer 3 operates the payment device 12 to input the payment method. In another embodiment, store clerk 2 may operate the input device 11 to input the payment method. Next, another embodiment in which the payment method is entered using the input device 11 will be described with reference to Figures 52 and 53.

[0262] Figure 52 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by the processor 21 of the input device 11 according to the input program. In the first embodiment, Figure 52 corresponds to the flowchart of Figure 10. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for processing steps that are common to both Figure 10 and Figure 52.

[0263] As shown in Figure 52, when the input completion button BAi is pressed while ACT129 and ACT130 are in standby state, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT130 to ACT901. As ACT901, the processor 21 sets the screen of the touch panel 28 to the payment method selection screen. The payment method selection screen is the same as the payment method selection screen SBb displayed on the touch panel 38 of the payment device 12 in the first embodiment. At this time, the customer display 29 remains on the customer registration screen.

[0264] After checking the payment method selection screen, the clerk confirms the payment method with the customer. If customer 3 wishes to pay with cash, clerk 2 presses the cash button BBa. If customer 3 wishes to pay with a credit card, clerk 2 presses the credit button BBb. If customer 3 wishes to pay with electronic money, clerk 2 presses the electronic money button BBc.

[0265] The processor 21, which displays the payment method selection screen, waits as ACT902 for one of the payment methods to be selected. When a payment method is selected by inputting the cash button BBa, the credit button BBb, or the electronic money button BBc, the processor 21 proceeds from ACT902 to ACT903. The processor 21 obtains the payment type as ACT903. The payment type is payment method identification data that identifies the payment method selected. For example, if the cash button BBa is entered, the processor 21 obtains the payment type "cash" as the payment method identification data. If the credit button BBb is entered, the processor 21 obtains the payment type "credit" as the payment method identification data. If the electronic money button BBc is entered, the processor 21 obtains the payment type "electronic money" as the payment method identification data.

[0266] After obtaining the payment type, processor 21 proceeds to ACT132. Processor 21 issues a transaction number as ACT132. After issuing the transaction number, processor 21 proceeds to ACT133. Processor 21 obtains the payment device ID of the connected payment device 12 as ACT133. That is, processor 21 refers to the first data table 63 and obtains the payment device ID for which the connection destination flag Fa is "1". Then, processor 21 controls the communication unit 25 to send a completion event as ACT904 with the payment device ID as the destination. This control sends the completion event to the network 14 via the communication unit 25. The completion event is received by the payment device 12 among the multiple payment devices 12 connected to the network 14 that has the payment device ID set as the destination for the completion event. The completion event includes the transaction number issued in ACT132. The completion event also includes the payment type obtained in ACT903.

[0267] The processor 21 that sent the completion event proceeds to ACT135. The processor 21 then executes the processing of ACT135 to ACT137 in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0268] Figure 53 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the information processing performed by the processor 31 of the payment device 12 according to the payment program. In the first embodiment, Figure 53 corresponds to the flowchart of Figure 12. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for processing steps that are common to both Figure 12 and Figure 53.

[0269] In the first embodiment, when the processor 31 of the payment device 12 receives a completion event while in the waiting state for ACT212 and ACT213, it sets the screen of the touch panel 38 to the payment method selection screen SBb as ACT221 in Figure 12. In the other embodiment, when a completion event is received, the process proceeds to ACT911 in Figure 53. The processor 31 obtains the payment type from the completion event as ACT911.

[0270] After obtaining the payment type, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT226. As ACT226, the processor 31 sets the touch panel 38 screen to the accounting screen SBc corresponding to the payment type. Then, as ACT227, the processor 31 waits for the payment to be completed. Once the payment is completed, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT227 to ACT231. The processor 31 executes the processing of ACT231 to ACT235 in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0271] In this way, by modifying a part of the information processing performed by the processor 21 of the input device 11 as shown in Figure 52, and modifying a part of the information processing performed by the processor 31 of the payment device 12 as shown in Figure 53, it is possible to configure the store clerk 2 to operate the input device 11 to input the payment method.

[0272] In the above embodiment, the case in which the payment device 12 is connected to a cashless payment terminal 5 was illustrated. The payment device 12 does not necessarily have to be connected to a cashless payment terminal 5. A payment device 12 that is not connected to a cashless payment terminal 5 becomes a payment device exclusively for cash payments. In that case, the processor 31 of the payment device 12 omits the processing of ACT221 to ACT226 in Figure 12. That is, when the processor 31 receives a completion event in the waiting state of ACT212 and ACT213 in Figure 11, it proceeds to the processing of ACT227 in Figure 12.

[0273] Figure 1 illustrates an accounting system 1 in which two payment devices 12 are arranged for one checkout lane. However, the accounting system 1 is not limited to this. For example, the embodiments described above can be applied to an accounting system in which three or more payment devices 12 are arranged for one checkout lane.

[0274] In addition, among two or more settlement devices 12, there may be a mixture of a settlement device 12 connected to the cashless settlement terminal 5 and a settlement device 12 not connected to the cashless settlement terminal 5. In that case, the store clerk 2 who is an operator of the input device 11 confirms in advance with the customer 3 the method of paying the amount due. And when the customer 3 wishes to make a cashless settlement, the settlement device 12 connected to the cashless settlement terminal 5 may be selected on the connection destination selection screen SAa.

[0275] In the above embodiment, the case where the input device 11 assigns a transaction number and transmits it to the settlement device 12 together with the completion event has been exemplified. As another embodiment, the settlement device 12 that has received the completion event may assign a transaction number. In this case, in a plurality of settlement devices 12 arranged in the same checkout lane, for example, by attaching different values to the most significant digit of the transaction number, the transaction numbers issued from each settlement device 12 may be prevented from overlapping.

[0276] Also, in the fourth embodiment, the settlement device 12 may be configured to pay out the amount as change from the automatic change dispenser when the total amount is negative. By doing so, it is also possible to handle merchandise vouchers for which change can be paid out.

[0277] Although several embodiments 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, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope of the invention and are included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof. The invention described in the original claims of this application is listed below. [1] An accounting system comprising: an input device for inputting transaction data via an input device; and a plurality of settlement devices for settling transactions, connected by a communication line, wherein the input device comprises: a determination means for determining one of the plurality of settlement devices as the connection destination before inputting the transaction data; a completion detection means for detecting an instruction to complete inputting the transaction data; a first transmission means for transmitting the transaction data input via the input device to one of the settlement devices determined as the connection destination by the determination means before the completion detection means detects an instruction to complete inputting the transaction data; and a first notification means for notifying one of the settlement devices determined as the connection destination by the determination means of the completion of input when the completion detection means detects an instruction to complete inputting the transaction data; wherein the settlement device comprises: a settlement-side storage means for storing the transaction data transmitted from the input device in a settlement-side storage unit until the transaction is settled; and a settlement means for settling a transaction based on the transaction data stored in the settlement-side storage unit when it receives notification of the completion of input from the input device. [2] The accounting system as described in Appendix [1], wherein the input device further comprises a connection destination selection means for selecting one of the plurality of settlement devices before inputting data relating to the transaction, and an inquiry means for inquiring whether a connection is possible to the settlement device selected by the connection destination selection means, the determination means determines the settlement device as the connection destination when the settlement device to be inquired about responds to the inquiry by the inquiry means and grants permission to connect, and the settlement device further comprises a connection response means that returns a response granting permission to connect when it receives an inquiry from the input device about whether a connection is possible while in a state where settlement of the transaction is possible. [3] The accounting system as described in Appendix [2], wherein the connection destination selection means of the input device includes an operator capable of individually specifying the plurality of payment devices, and the input device further comprises a disabling means for disabling the operation of the operator that specifies the payment device when the payment device to be inquired about does not respond to an inquiry by the inquiry means with permission to connect. [4] The accounting system as described in Appendix [1], further comprising a detail display means on a display device which displays detail information of a transaction based on data relating to the transaction entered via the input device, together with information identifying the settlement device determined as the connection destination by the determination means. [5] The accounting system as described in Appendix [1], further comprising: a payment device, a display device, which displays a waiting screen until it receives notification of the completion of input from the input device; and, upon receiving notification of the completion of input, an amount display means, which displays the settlement amount of the transaction calculated based on the transaction data stored by the payment-side storage means. [6] The accounting system according to any one of the appendices [1] to [5], wherein the first transmission means of the input device transmits the input transaction data to one settlement device determined as a connection destination by the determination means each time transaction data is input via the input device. [7] The accounting system as described in Appendix [1], wherein the input device further comprises: a first modification means for modifying transaction data transmitted to any one settlement device determined as a connection destination by the determination means before the termination detection means detects an instruction to end input of the transaction data; and a second transmission means for transmitting the modified transaction data modified by the first modification means to any one settlement device determined as a connection destination by the determination means before the termination detection means detects an instruction to end input of the transaction data; and the settlement device further comprises: a second modification means for modifying transaction data stored in the settlement-side storage unit with the modified transaction data transmitted from the input device by the second transmission means. [8] The accounting system as described in Appendix [7], wherein the input device further comprises: an input-side storage means for storing transaction data entered via the input device in an input-side storage unit; a detail display means for displaying transaction details on a display device based on the transaction data stored in the input-side storage unit, together with information identifying the settlement device determined as the connection destination by the determination means; and a modification acceptance means for accepting modifications to the detail information displayed by the detail display means, wherein the first modification means modifies the transaction data stored in the input-side storage unit with the detail information modified by the modification acceptance means. [9] The accounting system as described in Appendix [7] or [8], wherein the second transmission means of the input device transmits the modified transaction data to one of the settlement devices determined as a connection destination by the determination means each time the transaction data is modified.

[10] The input device includes an input-side storage means for storing transaction data entered via the input device in an input-side storage unit; a cancellation reception means for receiving a settlement cancellation instruction for a transaction whose input completion has been notified by the first notification means; a cancellation destination selection means for selecting a settlement device from among the plurality of settlement devices to cancel the settlement; a second notification means for notifying the settlement device selected by the cancellation destination selection means of the cancellation of the settlement when the cancellation reception means receives a settlement cancellation instruction for a transaction; and, on the condition that the settlement device to which the notification was received has given permission for the cancellation of the settlement, the input-side storage unit stores the data. The accounting system as described in Appendix [1] further comprises: a third modification means for modifying data relating to a transaction; a third transmission means for transmitting the modified transaction data modified by the third modification means to a settlement device selected by the cancellation destination selection means, wherein the settlement device, upon receiving a cancellation notice of settlement from the input device before the transaction is settled by the settlement means, returns a response authorizing the cancellation of the settlement; and a fourth modification means for modifying the transaction data stored in the settlement-side storage unit with the modified transaction data transmitted from the input device by the third transmission means.

[11] The accounting system as described in Appendix

[10] further comprises an input device for notifying that a payment cannot be canceled if the payment device to which the notification is received does not respond to the payment cancellation notice with permission to cancel the payment.

[12] The accounting system described in Appendix

[10] or

[11] , wherein the third transmission means of the input device transmits the modified transaction data to the settlement device selected by the cancellation destination selection means each time the transaction data is modified.

[13] The accounting system as described in Appendix [1], wherein the settlement device further comprises a voucher identification means for identifying whether the transaction data stored in the settlement-side storage unit is data relating to a transaction of a voucher product or data relating to a transaction of a product other than a voucher product, and when the settlement means receives notification of the completion of the input from the input device, it settles the transaction by setting the sales amount of the product as a positive value for data relating to a transaction of a product other than a voucher product among the transaction data stored in the settlement-side storage unit, and by setting the face value of the voucher product as a negative value for data relating to a transaction of a voucher product.

[14] The accounting system described in Appendix

[13] further comprises a receipt output means that outputs a receipt for a transaction settled by the payment means, which shows the face value of the gift certificate in addition to the total amount of sales of goods other than the gift certificate.

[15] The accounting system described in Appendix

[13] or

[14] further comprises: a gift certificate identification means for identifying whether the transaction data entered via the input device is data relating to a gift certificate product or data relating to a product other than a gift certificate product; a calculation means for calculating the total transaction amount by setting the sales price of the product as a positive value for data relating to a product other than a gift certificate product and the face value of the gift certificate product as a negative value for data relating to a gift certificate product; and a completion notification means for notifying the completion of payment when the total transaction amount calculated by the calculation means is 0 or a negative value at the time the completion detection means detects the end of input of the transaction data.

[16] An input device comprising: an input device for inputting transaction data; a communication device for communicating data with a plurality of settlement devices for settling transactions; an end detection means for detecting an instruction to end inputting transaction data; a determination means for determining one of the plurality of settlement devices as a connection destination before inputting the transaction data; an end detection means for detecting an instruction to end inputting transaction data; a first transmission means for transmitting the transaction data input via the input device to one of the settlement devices determined as a connection destination by the determination means before the end detection means detects an instruction to end inputting the transaction data; and a first notification means for notifying one of the settlement devices determined as a connection destination by the determination means of the end of input when the end detection means detects an instruction to end inputting transaction data.

[17] A settlement device comprising: a communication device that communicates with an input device which transmits transaction data entered via an input device to one settlement device determined as a connection destination before an instruction to end the input of the transaction data is detected; a settlement-side storage means which stores the transaction data transmitted from the input device in a settlement-side storage unit until the transaction is settled; and a settlement means which, upon receiving notification from the input device that an instruction to end the input of the transaction data has been detected, settles the transaction based on the transaction data stored in the settlement-side storage unit.

[18] A program for causing a computer for an input device, which includes an input device for inputting transaction data and a communication device for communicating data with a plurality of settlement devices for settling transactions, to function as: an end detection means for detecting an instruction to end inputting transaction data; a determination means for determining one of the plurality of settlement devices as a connection destination before inputting the transaction data; an end detection means for detecting an instruction to end inputting transaction data; a first transmission means for transmitting the transaction data input via the input device to one of the settlement devices determined as a connection destination by the determination means before the end detection means detects an instruction to end inputting the transaction data; and a first notification means for notifying one of the settlement devices determined as a connection destination by the determination means that input has ended when the end detection means detects an instruction to end inputting transaction data.

[19] A program to cause a computer of a settlement device, which includes an input device and a communication device that communicates data with an input device, to function as a settlement-side storage means that stores transaction data transmitted from the input device in a settlement-side storage unit until the transaction is settled, and a settlement means that settles a transaction based on the transaction data stored in the settlement-side storage unit when it receives notification from the input device that it has detected an instruction to end the input of the transaction data. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0278] 1…Accounting system, 2…Shop assistant, 3…Customer, 5…Cashless payment terminal, 11…Input device, 12…Payment device, 13…Server, 14…Network, 21,31…Processor, 51…Connection destination selection means, 52…Inquiry means, 53…Decision means, 54…Invalidation means, 55…Input side storage means, 56…Detail display means, 57…Termination detection means, 58…First transmission means, 59…First notification means, 63…First data table, 64…Input side storage unit, 65…Second data table, 71…Payment side storage means, 72…Amount display means, 73…Connection response means, 74…Payment means, 75…Second modification Means, 76... Cancellation response means, 77... Fourth modification means, 78... Voucher identification means, 79... Receipt output means, 81... Settlement side storage unit, 82... Flag memory, 510... Settlement destination notification means, 511... Modification acceptance means, 512... First modification means, 513... Second transmission means, 514... Cancellation acceptance means, 515... Cancellation destination selection means, 516... Second notification means, 517... Third modification means, 518... Third transmission means, 519... Non-notification means, 520... Voucher identification means, 521... Calculation means, 522... Completion notification means, 641... First transaction file, 642... Third transaction file, 811... Second transaction file.

Claims

1. An input device that inputs transaction data via an input device and multiple settlement devices that settle transactions are connected by a communication line. The aforementioned input device is Before inputting the data relating to the aforementioned transaction, a determination means is provided to determine which of the multiple payment devices will be used as the connection destination. A termination detection means for detecting an instruction to complete the input of data related to the aforementioned transaction, Before the termination detection means detects the end of input instruction for the transaction data, each time transaction data is input via the input device, the first transmission means transmits the input transaction data to one of the settlement devices determined as the connection destination by the determination means, When the termination detection means detects an instruction to complete the input of transaction-related data, the first notification means notifies one of the settlement devices determined as the connection destination by the determination means that the input has been completed. It is equipped with, The aforementioned payment device is A settlement-side storage means that stores transaction data transmitted from the input device in a settlement-side storage unit until the transaction is settled, Upon receiving notification of the end of input from the input device, the settlement means settles the transaction based on the transaction data stored in the settlement-side storage unit, An accounting system equipped with the following features.

2. The aforementioned input device is Before inputting the data relating to the aforementioned transaction, a connection destination selection means selects one of the multiple payment devices, An inquiry means for inquiring whether or not it is possible to connect to the payment device selected by the connection destination selection means, Furthermore, it is equipped with, The determination means determines the payment device to be the connection destination when it receives a response from the payment device to be inquired about in response to an inquiry made by the inquiry means, The aforementioned payment device is When the input device receives an inquiry regarding connection permission while the transaction is ready for settlement, the connection response means returns a response granting permission to connect. The accounting system according to claim 1, further comprising:

3. The connection destination selection means of the input device includes an operator that can individually specify the multiple payment devices. The aforementioned input device is If the payment device to which the inquiry was made does not respond to the inquiry made by the aforementioned inquiry means by which the payment device is not authorized to connect, the invalidation means disables the operation of the operator that designates the payment device. The accounting system according to claim 2, further comprising:

4. The aforementioned input device is A detail display means that displays the transaction details information on the display device, based on the transaction data entered via the input device, together with information identifying the settlement device determined as the connection destination by the determination means. The accounting system according to claim 1, further comprising:

5. The aforementioned payment device is The display device displays a waiting screen until it receives notification from the input device that the input has finished, and upon receiving the notification that the input has finished, it displays an amount display means that displays the settlement amount of the transaction calculated based on the transaction data stored by the settlement-side storage means. The accounting system according to claim 1, further comprising:

6. The aforementioned input device is A first modification means modifies the transaction data transmitted to one of the payment devices determined as the connection destination by the determination means before the termination detection means detects the termination instruction for the input of the transaction data, A second transmission means transmits the modified transaction data, modified by the first modification means, to one of the settlement devices determined as the connection destination by the determination means, before the termination detection means detects the end of input instruction for the transaction data, Furthermore, it is equipped with, The aforementioned payment device is The accounting system according to claim 1, further comprising: a second modification means for modifying the transaction data stored in the settlement-side storage unit with the modified transaction data transmitted from the input device by the second transmission means.

7. The aforementioned input device is An input-side storage means that stores transaction data input via the aforementioned input device in an input-side storage unit, A detail display means that displays the transaction details on a display device based on the transaction data stored in the input-side storage unit, along with information identifying the settlement device determined as the connection destination by the determination means. A correction acceptance means for accepting corrections to the detail information displayed by the detail display means, Furthermore, it is equipped with, The first modification means modifies the transaction data stored in the input-side storage unit with the detail information that has been modified by the modification receiving means. The accounting system according to claim 6.

8. The second transmission means of the input device is: The accounting system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein each time the transaction data is modified, the modified transaction data is transmitted to one of the settlement devices determined as the connection destination by the determination means.

9. The aforementioned input device is An input-side storage means that stores transaction data input via the aforementioned input device in an input-side storage unit, A cancellation acceptance means that accepts a payment cancellation instruction for a transaction for which input completion has been notified by the first notification means, A cancellation target selection means for selecting a payment device from among the multiple payment devices to cancel the payment, When the cancellation acceptance means receives an instruction to cancel the settlement of a transaction, the second notification means notifies the settlement device selected by the cancellation destination selection means of the cancellation of the settlement, A third modification means for modifying transaction data stored in the input-side storage unit, conditional on receiving a response from the payment device to which the payment cancellation notice was received granting permission to cancel the payment; A third transmission means transmits the data relating to the modified transaction, modified by the third modification means, to the settlement device selected by the cancellation destination selection means, Furthermore, it is equipped with, The aforementioned payment device is A cancellation response means that, upon receiving a notification of cancellation of the settlement from the input device before the transaction is settled by the settlement means, returns a response authorizing the cancellation of the settlement, The accounting system according to claim 1, further comprising: a fourth modification means for modifying the transaction data stored in the settlement-side storage unit with the modified transaction data transmitted from the input device by the third transmission means.

10. The aforementioned input device is If the payment device to which the payment was notified does not respond to the payment cancellation notice with permission to cancel the payment, a non-notification means will be used to notify that the payment cannot be canceled. The accounting system according to claim 9, further comprising:

11. The third transmission means of the input device is: The accounting system according to claim 9 or 10, wherein each time the transaction data is modified, the modified transaction data is transmitted to the settlement device selected by the cancellation destination selection means.

12. The aforementioned payment device is A gift certificate identification means for identifying whether the transaction data stored in the settlement-side storage unit is data relating to a gift certificate product or data relating to a product other than a gift certificate product. Furthermore, it is equipped with, The accounting system according to claim 1, wherein when the settlement means receives notification of the completion of input from the input device, it settles the transaction by setting the sales price of the product as a positive value for data relating to transactions of products other than gift certificates among the transaction data stored in the settlement-side storage unit, and setting the face value of the gift certificate as a negative value for data relating to transactions of gift certificates.

13. The aforementioned payment device is A receipt output means that outputs a receipt for a transaction settled by the aforementioned payment means, which separately shows the face value of the aforementioned gift certificate in addition to the total amount of sales of goods other than the aforementioned gift certificate. The accounting system according to claim 12, further comprising:

14. The aforementioned input device is A gift certificate identification means that identifies whether the transaction data entered via the input device is data relating to a gift certificate product or data relating to a product other than a gift certificate product, A calculation means for calculating the total transaction amount, wherein for data relating to transactions of goods other than gift certificates, the sales amount of the said goods is set as a positive value, and for data relating to gift certificates, the face value of the said gift certificates is set as a negative value, When the completion detection means detects the end of input instructions for transaction-related data, and the total transaction amount calculated by the calculation means is zero or a negative value, a completion notification means notifies that payment has been completed. The accounting system according to claim 12 or 13, further comprising:

15. An input device for entering transaction-related data, Multiple settlement devices for settling transactions and communication devices for data communication, A termination detection means for detecting an instruction to complete the input of transaction-related data, Before inputting the data relating to the aforementioned transaction, a determination means is provided to determine which of the multiple payment devices will be used as the connection destination. A termination detection means for detecting an instruction to complete the input of data related to the aforementioned transaction, Before the termination detection means detects the end of input instruction for the transaction data, each time transaction data is input via the input device, the first transmission means transmits the input transaction data to one of the settlement devices determined as the connection destination by the determination means, When the termination detection means detects an instruction to complete the input of transaction-related data, the first notification means notifies one of the settlement devices determined as the connection destination by the determination means that the input has been completed. An input device equipped with the following:

16. A computer for an input device, which includes an input device for entering transaction-related data and a communication device for communicating data with multiple settlement devices for settling transactions, Termination detection means for detecting an instruction to complete the input of transaction-related data, Before inputting the data relating to the aforementioned transaction, a determination means determines which of the multiple payment devices will be used as the connection destination. Termination detection means for detecting an instruction to complete input of data related to the transaction, Before the termination detection means detects the end of input instruction for the transaction data, each time transaction data is input via the input device, a first transmission means transmits the input transaction data to one of the settlement devices determined as the connection destination by the determination means, and When the termination detection means detects an instruction to complete the input of transaction-related data, the first notification means notifies one of the settlement devices determined as the connection destination by the determination means that the input has been completed. A program designed to function as such.

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