Information terminals and their programs

Abstract

To enable a customer to perform a code reading operation for a purchase commodity on a sales floor without feeling that the operation is complicated.SOLUTION: A reading unit reads a code for specifying a commodity. A display unit displays a first screen for assisting the reading of the code by the reading unit. A communication unit transmits the code read by the reading unit to a host machine and receives commodity data specified by the code from the host machine. Switching means switches between a continuous mode in which codes can be read continuously by the reading unit and a single reading mode in which codes cannot be read continuously. When in the continuous mode, control means causes the commodity data received by the communication unit to be displayed on part of the first screen on the display unit to enable continuous reading of codes by the reading unit. When in the single reading mode, the control means causes the commodity data received by the communication unit to be displayed on a second screen different from the first screen on the display unit to disable continuous reading of codes by the reading unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an information terminal and its program.

Background Art

[0002] When a customer (consumer) purchases a product at a sales floor where products are displayed, a so-called self-product registration system, in which the customer scans a barcode attached to the product using an information terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal, is already known. By introducing a self-product registration system in a supermarket or the like where the sales floor and the accounting area are separated, the product registration operation in the accounting area becomes unnecessary, so there is an advantage of alleviating the congestion in the accounting area.

[0003] An information terminal used in this type of self-product registration system generally has a code reading function using a built-in camera. When the code reading function becomes effective, a first screen showing the code reading area is displayed on the display of the information terminal. The customer holds the purchased product in front of the camera so that the barcode enters the reading area of the first screen. By doing so, the barcode is scanned and the purchased product is registered. Then, the image on the display transitions to a second screen showing the product name, price, etc. of the purchased product. The customer can confirm that the product held in front of the camera has been correctly registered from the information on the second screen.

[0004] Incidentally, some information terminals disable the code reading function when transitioning to the second screen. In this case, the code reading function needs to be enabled when reading the code of the next purchased item. Alternatively, some information terminals continue reading the codes of purchased items without disabling the code reading function after reading a purchased item. Here, for example, some customers prefer to check the details of the purchased item on the second screen, which is accessed from the first screen used for reading the code, after reading the code of the purchased item, while others prefer to read the codes of purchased items continuously. In self-service product registration systems where customers perform the product registration operation themselves, further improvements are needed to improve the usability of the registration operation on the information terminal operated by the customer. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-042458 [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 information terminal that can improve the operability when customers perform code reading operations on purchased products in a sales area. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment, the information terminal includes a reading unit and a display unit. Memory unit and, It includes control means. The reading unit reads a code for identifying the product. The display unit, The reading unit displays a screen showing the code reading area. The storage unit sequentially stores the product data identified by the code read by the reading unit. The control means is, A portion of the screen indicating the reading area of ​​the display unit displays only one product data entry from the product data stored in the memory unit, relating to the product identified by the most recently read code by the reading unit, enabling continuous code reading by the reading unit. In response to a predetermined input to a portion of the screen, the single product data entry displayed is switched to display other product data stored in the memory unit. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a product registration system according to one embodiment. [Figure 2]Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the registration support server. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the main data stored in the transaction file. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of an information terminal. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the list area. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the composition of the total area. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the current area. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the information processing performed by the information terminal's processor. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the information processing performed by the information terminal's processor. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the information processing performed by the information terminal's processor. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the information processing performed by the information terminal's processor. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the information processing performed by the information terminal's processor. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the information processing performed by the information terminal's processor. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the information processing performed by the information terminal's processor. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the information processing performed by the information terminal's processor. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the check-in notification process executed by the registration support server's processor. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the registration notification process executed by the registration support server's processor. [Figure 18]FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the main procedure of the change notification process executed by the processor of the registration support server. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the main procedure of the payment notification process executed by the processor of the registration support server. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the main procedure of the settlement request process executed by the processor of the registration support server. [Figure 21] FIGS. 21(a) to (d) are examples of screen transitions displayed on the information terminal. [Figure 22] FIGS. 22(a) to (d) are examples of screen transitions displayed on the information terminal. [Figure 23] FIGS. 23(a) to (d) are examples of screen transitions displayed on the information terminal. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is an example of a screen transition displayed on the information terminal.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, in a sales floor of a retail store where the sales floor where goods are displayed and the cashier's office where a cash register is installed are separated, a customer (consumer) uses a portable information terminal to perform a self code reading operation of purchased goods. In such a store, a self-service product registration system is constructed. The information terminal is, for example, a smartphone owned by a customer, a dedicated portable terminal prepared by the store, a tablet terminal attached to a shopping cart, etc. This embodiment will be described by taking the information terminal owned by the customer as an example.

[0010] [Explanation of the Configuration of the Product Registration System] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating the schematic configuration of the product registration system 100 according to this embodiment. The product registration system 100 includes a server system 10 utilizing cloud computing and a POS (Point of Sales) system 20 built at a member store. The server system 10 and the POS system 20 enable bidirectional data communication through a network 30 using the Internet Protocol. The network 30 is a wide-area network that uses public lines or dedicated lines as a relay network and access networks such as wired LAN (Local Area Network), wireless LAN, mobile communication network, and cell phone communication network. An information terminal 40 using a cell phone communication network, such as a smartphone, can access the server system 10 via the network 30.

[0011] A member store is a store that has entered into a service agreement with the management company of the server system 10. Note that Figure 1 shows the POS system 20 of one member store. It goes without saying that the POS systems of other member stores are similarly connected to the network 30. However, the POS systems of other member stores are not necessarily identical in configuration to the POS system 20 shown in Figure 1. Some parts of the POS system configuration may differ depending on the member store.

[0012] The server system 10 comprises a registration support server 11 and a router 12, which are connected by a communication line 13. The router 12 is also connected to the network 30 and serves as a relay point for data communication using the network 30 between the registration support server 11 and the POS systems 20 of each affiliated store.

[0013] The registration support server 11 is a computer that assists in the registration of purchased items by customers shopping at affiliated stores. To assist in this, the registration support server 11 manages a product master 14 for each affiliated store. The product master 14 is a collection of product records created for each product. A product record is a data record that records product information such as the product name, price, and attributes of the product, associated with a product code that is set for each product to identify each product individually. Attributes are information that indicates, for example, whether or not the product is eligible for a bulk discount, or whether or not it is eligible for a reduced tax rate.

[0014] The registration support server 11 has at least the following two functions. The first function is to register product sales data based on the product code read by the information terminal 40. The second function is to create or transmit accounting data necessary for settling transactions with customers using the information terminal 40, in response to accounting instructions from the information terminal 40. In other words, the registration support server 11 functions as a higher-level device for the information terminal 40.

[0015] The POS system 20 includes a store server 21, a monitoring terminal 22, a POS terminal 23, and a dedicated cashier 24, all connected via an in-store network 25. The POS system 20 also connects a router 26 to the in-store network 25, and through this router 26, it connects to network 30. Furthermore, the POS system 20 connects an access point 27 to the in-store network 25, enabling wireless LAN data communication with the information terminal 40 via this access point 27.

[0016] The store server 21 is a computer that manages sales information, product inventory information, and order information for a merchant based on transaction information settled at the merchant where the POS system 20 is installed.

[0017] The monitoring terminal 22 is a terminal for monitoring customers who are using the information terminal 40 to perform self-service code scanning operations for purchased items. The monitoring terminal 22 is equipped with a monitor that displays customer behavior in the store, data related to the customer's purchased items, etc.

[0018] POS terminal 23 is an accounting machine that processes settlements for transactions with customers who do not use information terminal 40. POS terminal 23 is operated by a store employee. POS terminal 23 may be a semi-self-service system, separated into a registration machine and a payment machine, with the registration machine operated by a store employee and the payment machine operated by the customer. Alternatively, POS terminal 23 may be a fully self-service system, operated by the customer.

[0019] The dedicated accounting machine 24 is an accounting machine that processes settlements for transactions with customers using the information terminal 40. The dedicated accounting machine 24 is operated by the customer. The dedicated accounting machine 24 has a function to scan the accounting barcode displayed on the information terminal 40, a payment processing function that supports various payment methods such as electronic money, credit cards, and cash, and an electronic money charging function.

[0020] [Configuration description of the registration support server] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the registration support server 11. The registration support server 11 comprises a processor 111, main memory 112, auxiliary storage device 113, clock 114, communication interface 115, and system transmission line 116. The system transmission line 116 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The registration support server 11 connects the processor 111, main memory 112, auxiliary storage device 113, clock 114, and communication interface 115 to the system transmission line 116. In the registration support server 11, the computer is composed of the processor 111, main memory 112, auxiliary storage device 113, clock 114, and communication interface 115, and the system transmission line 116 connecting them.

[0021] The processor 111 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 111 controls various parts in order to realize various functions as a registration support server 11 according to the operating system or application program. The processor 111 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0022] Main memory 112 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 112 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area of ​​main memory 112, the operating system or application programs are stored. In the volatile memory area of ​​main memory 112, data necessary for the processor 111 to perform processing to control each part is stored. This data may also be stored in the non-volatile memory area. Main memory 112 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as needed by the processor 111. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0023] The auxiliary storage device 113 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. For example, EEPROM (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disc Drive), or SSD (Solid State Drive) can be the auxiliary storage device 113. The auxiliary storage device 113 stores data used by the processor 111 in performing various processes, or data created by the processing performed by the processor 111. The auxiliary storage device 113 may also store the application program described above.

[0024] Clock 114 measures the date and time. Registration support server 11 obtains the date and time measured by clock 114 as the current date and time.

[0025] The communication interface 115 is a circuit for sending and receiving data with each device connected via the network 30, in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0026] The registration support server 11 uses a portion of the volatile area in its main memory 112 as storage for multiple transaction files 50. A transaction file 50 is created for each customer who performs a code reading operation for purchased goods using the information terminal 40. The transaction file 50 stores various data necessary for creating accounting data.

[0027] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the main data stored in the transaction file 50. As an example, Figure 3 shows the data of one record among multiple transaction records stored in the transaction file 50. The transaction file 50 stores data related to transactions of customers using the information terminal 40. As shown in Figure 3, the transaction file 50 stores the transaction identification code, store code, date and time of entry, number of detail data entries n, the detail data for that number n, total points, total amount, total discount amount, accounting code, etc.

[0028] The transaction identification code is information used to identify a customer's transaction. The transaction identification code may be, for example, a code used to identify the information terminal 40 used by the customer, such as the device ID of the information terminal 40 or a mobile phone number. The transaction identification code may also be, for example, a transaction number used to identify a transaction, or it may be a combination of the transaction number with a store code and date and time information such as the date and time of entry. The transaction number is issued by the registration support server 11, for example, when generating the transaction file described later. The store code is a unique code set for each member store to identify each store individually. The date and time of entry is the date and time when the customer launched the application for the product registration system running on the information terminal 40 and checked in at the member store.

[0029] The detailed data consists of the product code, product name, price, attributes, quantity purchased, discount amount, etc. of the purchased items. The detailed data includes an update flag F. The update flag F is a 1-bit data that identifies whether or not the detailed data has been updated. In this embodiment, the update flag F for updated detailed data is set to "1", and the update flag F for unupdated detailed data is set to "0".

[0030] The total score is the sum of the purchase points for each item in the transaction details. The total amount is the sum of the purchase amounts for each item in the transaction details. The purchase amount is calculated by multiplying the price by the number of items purchased and subtracting the discount amount. The total discount amount is the sum of the discount amounts for each item in the transaction details. The accounting code is a code used by customers who check in at the time of entry to a participating store identified by the store code using the information terminal 40 when settling their transaction.

[0031] [Description of the information terminal configuration] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the information terminal 40. As shown in Figure 4, the information terminal 40 includes a processor 41, built-in memory 42, external memory 43, touch panel 44, camera 45, wireless unit 46, and system transmission line 47.

[0032] The system transmission line 47 includes an address bus, a data bus, control signal lines, etc. The information terminal 40 connects a processor 41, internal memory 42, external memory 43, a touch panel 44, a camera 45, and a wireless unit 46 to the system transmission line 47. In the information terminal 40, the computer is composed of the processor 41, internal memory 42, external memory 43, and the system transmission line 47 connecting them.

[0033] The processor 41 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 41 controls various parts in order to realize various functions as an information terminal 40 according to the operating system or application program (application software). The processor 41 is, for example, a CPU.

[0034] The internal memory 42 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. The internal memory 42 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The internal memory 42 stores the operating system or application programs in the non-volatile memory area. The internal memory 42 stores data necessary for the processor 41 to perform processing to control each part in the volatile memory area. The internal memory 42 also uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as needed by the processor 41. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM.

[0035] External memory 43 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. For example, an SD memory card, USB memory, etc., can serve as external memory 43. External memory 43 stores data used by the processor 41 in performing various processes, or data created by the processing performed by the processor 41. External memory 43 may also store the application programs described above.

[0036] The touch panel 44 is a device that combines a display unit as a display unit and a touch sensor as a detection unit. The display unit has a screen for displaying various images. The touch sensor detects the position on the screen touched by the operator. The touch panel 44 acquires data input by the operator from the position on the screen detected by the touch sensor and the image information displayed at that position.

[0037] The camera 45 is an imaging device built into the information terminal 40. The processor 41 reads codes such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes from the image captured by the camera 45. Here, the processor 41 cooperates with the camera 45 to form a reading unit.

[0038] The wireless unit 46 is a communication device that performs data communication with the access point 27 in accordance with the wireless LAN communication protocol. The wireless unit 46 constitutes the communication section of the information terminal 40.

[0039] In such a configuration, the information terminal 40 has, for example, the self-registration program 60 installed in external memory 43. The self-registration program 60 is application software for a product registration system that runs on the information terminal 40. The self-registration program 60 may also be installed in internal memory 42. The method of installing the self-registration program 60 in internal memory 42 or external memory 43 is not particularly limited. The self-registration program 60 can be installed in internal memory 42 or external memory 43 by recording it on a removable recording medium or by distributing the self-registration program 60 via communication over a network. The recording medium can take any form as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device, such as an SD memory card or USB memory.

[0040] In an information terminal 40 on which the self-registration program 60 is installed, a list area 61, a total area 62, and a current area 63 are formed in a portion of the built-in memory 42. Note that areas 61, 62, and 63 may also be formed in external memory 43.

[0041] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the list area 61. As shown in the figure, the list area 61 is an area for storing detailed data such as product code, product name, price, attributes, number of items purchased, discount amount, and update flag F.

[0042] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the total area 62. As shown in the figure, the total area is a region for storing the total points Ta, the total amount Tb, and the total discount amount Tc.

[0043] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the current area 63. As shown in the figure, the current area 63 is a region for storing data such as product code, product name, price, attributes, number of items purchased, and discount amount, associated with a sequential number starting from "1".

[0044] The processor 41 performs information processing according to the self-registration program 60, thereby realizing the functions of a switching means, a control means, an extraction means, and a clear means. The switching means is a function that switches between a continuous scan mode (continuous reading mode) in which barcodes can be continuously read by the reading unit using the camera 45, and a single scan mode (single reading mode) in which barcodes cannot be continuously read. The control means is a function that, in continuous scan mode, displays the product data received by the wireless unit 46, which is the communication unit, on a part of the scan screen, which is the first screen, on the touch panel 44, which is the display unit, enabling continuous reading of barcodes by the reading unit. In single scan mode, it is a function that displays the product data received by the wireless unit 46, which is the communication unit, on a registration screen, which is a second screen separate from the first screen, on the touch panel 44, which is the display unit, making continuous reading of barcodes by the reading unit impossible. The extraction means is a function that extracts product data related to the product identified by the latest barcode read by the reading unit from the product data received by the communication unit. The clearing mechanism is a function that clears the product data stored in the current area 63, which is the memory unit, when a screen transition is instructed by either a first instruction unit that instructs the image on the touch panel 44 to transition from the scanning screen to the registration screen, or a second instruction unit that instructs the image to transition from the registration screen to the scanning screen. Details of these functions will be clarified in the operation description described later.

[0045] [Explanation of how the product registration system works] Figures 8 to 15 are flowcharts showing the main steps of information processing performed by the processor 41 of the information terminal 40 according to the self-registration program 60. Figures 16 to 20 are flowcharts showing the main steps of information processing performed by the processor 111 of the registration support server 11 according to the program. Figures 21 to 24 are examples of screen transitions displayed on the touch panel 44 of the information terminal 40. The main operations of the product registration system will be explained below using these figures. Note that the procedures and contents of the operations described below are examples. The procedures or contents can be changed as appropriate if similar effects can be achieved. Also, the screens are examples. The layout, images, text, etc. of each screen are not limited to those shown.

[0046] When a customer makes a purchase using the information terminal 40 in a retail store where the self-service product registration system 100 is installed, they first start the self-service registration program 60. When the self-service registration program 60 is started, the processor 41 of the information terminal 40 starts processing information according to the procedure shown in Figure 8. The processor 41 displays the check-in screen SCa (see Figure 21(a)) on the touch panel 44 as ACT1. Then the processor 41 starts the camera 45 as ACT2.

[0047] An entry code is provided at the entrance of the store. The entry code is a two-dimensional code system that encodes the store's configuration information. The configuration information includes the store code, in-store LAN data, and mobile communication data. The in-store LAN data includes the SSID, password, and security information necessary for the information terminal 40 to connect to the access point 27 using wireless LAN. The mobile communication data includes the timeout period and number of retries necessary for the information terminal 40 to communicate with each device of the self-service product registration system 100.

[0048] As shown in Figure 21(a), the check-in screen SCa displays a frame CM indicating the code reading area, along with guidance to scan the entry code. The customer holds the camera 45 of the information terminal 40 over the entry code so that the entry code fits within the frame CM. The entry code is then read by the reading function of the information terminal 40.

[0049] In the above explanation, it was stated that the camera 45 is activated when the check-in screen SCa is displayed on the touch panel 44, but the timing of the camera 45's activation is not limited to this. For example, if a camera activation button is displayed on the check-in screen SCa, the camera 45 may be activated when this camera activation button is touched.

[0050] Processor 41, which has displayed the check-in screen SCa, waits for a check-in as ACT3. When the entry code is scanned by camera 45, processor 41 considers the check-in to be complete and proceeds to ACT4. Processor 41 then stops camera 45 as ACT4.

[0051] The processor 41 controls the wireless unit 46 to send a check-in notification as ACT5. This control causes the wireless unit 46 to connect to the access point 27 via wireless LAN based on the in-store LAN data obtained from the entry code. After connecting to the access point 27, the wireless unit 46 wirelessly transmits a check-in notification command. The check-in notification command is received by the access point 27 and transmitted to the registration support server 11 via the router 26 of the POS system 20. The check-in notification command includes the terminal identification code set on the information terminal 40. The terminal identification code may be, for example, a code to identify the information terminal 40 used by the customer, such as the device ID of the information terminal 40 or a mobile phone number. Alternatively, the terminal identification code may be a code to identify the self-registration program 60 stored in the information terminal 40, or the user using the program, such as a unique number automatically issued when the program is installed or a membership number issued when the customer registers as a member. The store code obtained from the entry code is also included in the check-in notification command. Upon receiving a check-in notification command, the registration support server 11 executes the check-in notification process.

[0052] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the check-in notification process. When the processor 111 of the registration support server 11 receives a check-in notification command via the communication interface 115, it obtains the terminal identification code from the check-in notification command as ACT121. The processor 111 also obtains the store ID from the check-in notification command as ACT122. Furthermore, the processor 111 sets the current date and time measured by the clock 124 as the entry date and time as ACT123. Then, the processor 111 creates a transaction file 50 as ACT124. The transaction file 50 stores the transaction identification code, the store code obtained from the check-in notification command, and the entry date and time. The transaction identification code may be the terminal identification code obtained from the check-in notification command. The transaction file 50 is stored, for example, in the main memory 112.

[0053] Processor 111, as ACT 125, sends a start command to the information terminal 40, the source of the check-in notification command, based on, for example, the terminal identification code. If the transaction number is used as the transaction identification code, the start command may also include the transaction identification code using the transaction number and send it to the information terminal 40. In this case, when registering a product, the information terminal 40 can include the transaction identification code in the registration notification command described later, and the registration support server 11 can manage the information of the product registered by the customer based on the transaction identification code. With this, processor 111 finishes processing the information when it receives the check-in notification command. Note that although processor 111 creates the transaction file 50 in ACT 124, the timing of creating the transaction file 50 is not limited to this. Processor 111 may also generate the transaction file 50 when it receives the product code sent as a registration notification command when the information terminal 40 reads the barcode of the first product in a new transaction.

[0054] Returning to the explanation of Figure 8. The processor 41, which has sent the check-in notification, waits for a start command as ACT6. Upon receiving a start command via the wireless unit 46, the processor 41 proceeds to ACT7. As ACT7, the processor 41 sets the mode flag MF to "0".

[0055] The mode flag MF is a 1-bit data that identifies whether the operating mode of the information terminal 40 is continuous scan mode or single scan mode. Continuous scan mode is a mode in which the reading unit can read the barcodes of multiple products in succession. Single scan mode is a mode in which the reading unit reads the barcodes of products one by one. In single scan mode, it is not possible to read the barcodes of multiple products in succession. In this embodiment, the mode flag indicating continuous scan mode is set to "1", and the mode flag indicating single scan mode is set to "0". That is, the information terminal 40 is set to single scan mode in the initial stage when check-in is performed.

[0056] When the mode flag MF is set to "0", the processor 41 switches the touch panel 44 screen from the check-in screen SCa to the registration screen SCb (see Figure 21(b)) as ACT8. As shown in Figure 21, the registration screen SCb has a scan button BTa, a no barcode button BTb, and a payment button BTc. In addition, part of the screen is used as the transaction total display section ARa, and the remainder is used as the purchase item details list display section ARb. At this point, since shopping has not started, the total points are 0 and the total amount is 0 yen. Also, the details list display section ARb is blank.

[0057] The scan button BTa is an operator that instructs the user to scan the barcode attached to the product. The no barcode button BTb is an operator that instructs the user to register a product that does not have a barcode. The payment button BTc is an operator that instructs the user to pay for the transaction. Since the purchase has not yet started, the payment button BTc is grayed out and disabled. The registration screen SCb, with the payment button BTc disabled, may also be called the registration start screen.

[0058] After confirming the registration screen SCb, the customer begins shopping. As they browse the store and find the items they wish to purchase, they check whether or not the items have barcodes. If the items have barcodes, the customer touches the scan button BTa. If the items do not have barcodes, the customer touches the no barcode button BTb.

[0059] The processor 41, which controls the display of the registration screen SCb, waits for either the scan button BTa to be input as ACT9 or the no-barcode button BTB to be input as ACT10. When the scan button BTa is input while in the waiting state of ACT9 or ACT10, the processor 41 proceeds to ACT11. As ACT11, the processor 41 switches the screen of the touch panel 44 from the registration screen SCb to the single-shot scan mode scan screen SCc (see Figure 21(c)). Then the processor 41 proceeds to ACT12 in Figure 9. As ACT12, the processor 41 activates the camera 45.

[0060] As shown in Figure 21, the scan screen SCc in single-shot scan mode includes a frame CM indicating the code reading area, along with guidance to guide the scanning of the product's barcode. The scan screen SCc also includes a "no barcode" button BTb and a "return to details" button BTd. The "return to details" button BTd is an operator that instructs the user to return to the registration screen. The code reading area is an image to assist in reading the barcode. In other words, the scan screen SCc is an example of the first screen.

[0061] The scan screen SCc also has a mode selector switch SW. The mode selector switch SW is used to switch between single-shot scan mode and continuous scan mode. Since the scan screen SCc is the screen for single-shot scan mode, the mode selector switch SW displays [OFF], indicating that single-shot scan mode is selected.

[0062] After viewing the scan screen SCc, the customer decides whether or not to switch to continuous scan mode. If the customer chooses not to switch to continuous scan mode, i.e., to read the barcode of the purchased item in single-shot scan mode, the customer holds the camera 45 of the information terminal 40 over the purchased item so that the barcode fits within the frame CM. The barcode is then read by the reading unit of the information terminal 40. If the purchased item does not have a barcode, the customer touches the "No Barcode" button BTb. To return to the registration screen SCb, the customer touches the "Return to Details" button BTd. On the other hand, if the customer chooses to switch to continuous scan mode, the customer flips the mode switch SW.

[0063] In ACT12, the processor 41, which activated the camera, waits for either a barcode to be read in ACT13, the barcode-free button BTb to be pressed in ACT14, the return-to-details button BTd to be pressed in ACT15, or the mode switching switch SW to be switched in ACT16.

[0064] In the standby state of ACT13 to ACT16, when a barcode is read, the processor 41 proceeds to ACT31 in Figure 10. As ACT31, the processor 41 checks the mode flag MF. In this case, the mode flag MF is "0", so the processor 41 proceeds to ACT32. As ACT32, the processor 41 stops the camera 45. The processor 41 also controls the wireless unit 46 to perform a registration notification as ACT33. This control causes the wireless unit 46 to wirelessly transmit a registration notification command. The registration notification command is received by the access point 27 and transmitted to the registration support server 11 via the router 26 of the POS system 20. The registration notification command contains the barcode data read from the purchased product. The registration notification command also contains a transaction identification code, which is information used to identify the customer's transaction in the transaction file 50. For example, if the transaction identification code is a terminal identification code, the registration notification command contains the terminal identification code set on the information terminal 40.

[0065] Upon receiving the registration notification command, the registration support server 11 executes the registration notification process. Figure 17 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the registration notification process. When the processor 111 of the registration support server 11 receives a registration notification command via the communication interface 115, it obtains a transaction identification code from the registration notification command as ACT131. Then, the processor 111 selects the transaction file 50 in which the transaction identification code is stored as ACT132. For the sake of explanation, the selected transaction file will be referred to as transaction file 51 below.

[0066] Processor 111 retrieves the product code from the barcode data included in the registration notification command as ACT133. Then, as ACT134, Processor 111 searches the product master 14 using that product code. At this time, Processor 111 searches the product master 14 of the affiliated store identified by the store code stored in the transaction file 51.

[0067] Processor 111 reads product data such as product name, price, and attributes stored in association with the product code from the product master 14 as ACT135. Processor 111 generates detailed data of the purchased product as ACT136. As described above, the detailed data consists of the product code, product name, price, attributes, number of items purchased, discount amount, update flag F, etc.

[0068] Processor 111, as ACT137, increments the number of detail data entries n in transaction file 51 by "1". Then, Processor 111 checks whether the number of detail data entries n is greater than "1". If the number of detail data entries n is greater than "1", Processor 111 proceeds to ACT139. The fact that the number of detail data entries n is greater than "1" means that other detail data is stored in transaction file 51. Processor 111, as ACT139, resets the update flag F for other detail data to "0". Then, Processor 111 proceeds to ACT140. On the other hand, if the number of detail data entries n is "1", that is, if no other detail data is stored in transaction file 51, Processor 111 skips the processing of ACT139 and proceeds to ACT140. Processor 111, as ACT140, saves the detail data created in ACT136 to transaction file 51. Then, processor 111 sets the update flag F for the detailed data to "1" as ACT141.

[0069] Once the above processing is complete, the processor 111 sends a detail response command as ACT142 to the information terminal 40 that sent the registration notification command. The detail response command includes detail data for n detail data points stored in the transaction file 51, as well as the total points, total amount, and total discount amount.

[0070] Returning to the explanation of Figure 10. The processor 41, which controls the transmission of the registration notification command, waits for the detail response command as ACT34. Upon receiving the detail response command via the wireless unit 46, the processor 41 proceeds to ACT35. As ACT35, the processor 41 extracts the detail data from the detail response command in which the update flag F is set to "1". Then, as ACT36, the processor 41 adds the detail data to the list area 61. The processor 41 also obtains the total points, total amount, and total discount amount from the detail response command as ACT37 and overwrites the total area 62.

[0071] Subsequently, the processor 41 switches the touch panel 44 screen from the single-scan mode scan screen SCc to the registration screen SCd (see Figure 21(d)) as ACT38. The registration screen SCd displays a list of information for all products whose barcodes have been scanned as purchased items, as well as a screen (registered product list) that includes the total number of items and the total amount. In other words, the registration screen is a product details screen that shows information for all products that have been registered as purchased items. The registration screen SCd is an example of the screen when the barcode of the first purchased item is scanned. The total display unit ARa displays the total number of items and the total amount stored in the total area 62. If the total discount amount is greater than 0 yen, the total discount amount is also displayed in part of the total display unit ARa. The details list display unit ARb displays the product name (product AAAAAA), price (¥100), number of items purchased ([1]), etc. for each purchased product, based on the details data stored in the list area 61. In other words, the registration screen SCd is an example of the second screen.

[0072] The processor 41, with the touch panel 44 screen set to the registration screen SCd, proceeds to ACT51 in Figure 11. The processor 41 waits for either the scan button BTa to be input as ACT51, the no-barcode button BTb to be input as ACT52, the payment button BTc to be input as ACT53, or for any of the purchased items displayed on the item list display unit ARb to be selected as ACT54.

[0073] When the scan button BTa is pressed by the customer's touch, the processor 41 proceeds to ACT 55. In ACT 55, the processor 41 checks the mode flag MF. In this case, the mode flag MF is "0", so the processor 41 proceeds to ACT 56. In ACT 56, the processor 41 switches the screen of the touch panel 44 from the registration screen SCd to the single-shot scan mode scan screen SCc (see Figure 21(c)). Then the processor 41 proceeds to ACT 12 in Figure 9. After restarting the camera 45, the processor 41 enters a waiting state for ACT 13 to ACT 16.

[0074] When a customer changes the operating mode from single-shot scan mode to continuous scan mode, they switch the mode selector switch SW from off to on. In the standby state of ACT13 to ACT16, when the mode selector switch SW is switched from off to on, the processor 41 proceeds to ACT17. As ACT17, the processor 41 checks the mode flag MF. In this case, the mode flag MF is "0", so the processor 41 proceeds to ACT18. As ACT18, the processor 41 sets the mode flag MF to "1". Also, as ACT19, the processor 41 switches the screen of the touch panel 44 from the scan screen SCc of single-shot scan mode to the scan screen SCe of continuous scan mode (see Figure 22(a)). Then the processor 41 returns to the standby state of ACT13 to ACT16.

[0075] As shown in Figure 22(a), the scan screen SCe in continuous scan mode shows a change in the state of the mode selector switch SW compared to the scan screen SCc in single scan mode. Specifically, the mode selector switch SW displays [ON], indicating that continuous scan mode is selected.

[0076] A customer who has switched to continuous scan mode holds the barcode of the purchased item up to the camera 45. The processor 41, which was in standby state for ACT13 to ACT16, proceeds to ACT31 in Figure 10. At this point, the mode flag MF is "1", so the processor 41 proceeds to ACT39. The processor 41 controls the wireless unit 46 to perform a registration notification as ACT39. This control causes the wireless unit 46 to wirelessly transmit a registration notification command. The registration notification command is received by the access point 27 and transmitted to the registration support server 11 via the router 26 of the POS system 20. The registration notification command includes the barcode data read from the purchased item and transaction identification information.

[0077] Upon receiving the registration notification command, the registration support server 11 executes the registration notification process already described using Figure 17. Therefore, the processor 41, which controlled the transmission of the registration notification command, waits for the detail response command as ACT40. Upon receiving the detail response command via the wireless unit 46, the processor 41 proceeds to ACT41. As ACT41, the processor 41 extracts the detail data from the detail response command with the update flag F set to "1". Then, as ACT42, the processor 41 adds the detail data to the list area 61. The processor 41 also obtains the total points, total amount, and total discount amount from the detail response command as ACT43 and overwrites the total area 62. Furthermore, as ACT44, the processor 41 adds the product code, product name, price, attributes, points, amount, and discount amount included in the detail data to the current area 63. At this time, if data is already stored in the area associated with the sequential number "1" in the current area 63, the data below the sequential number "1" is shifted down to the sequential number "2" or below. Then, new data is added to the now-empty area corresponding to the sequential number "1". The processor 41 then displays the product name, price, attributes, and purchase quantity of the data associated with the sequential number "1" in the current area 63 as ACT45 on a portion of the scan screen SCe.

[0078] Here, the processor 41 performs the processing of ACT 41, thereby realizing its function as an extraction means. Then, the processor 41 performs the processing of ACT 44, causing the data extracted by the extraction means, i.e., product data with update flag F set to "1", to be stored in the current area 63, which is the storage unit.

[0079] The scan screen SCf in Figure 22(b) is the scan screen after scanning the barcode of a purchased product (product AAAAAA) in continuous scan mode. As shown in the figure, the scan screen SCf reserves a current display area CR in a part of the area that does not overlap with the frame CM, and the product name (product AAAAAA), price (¥100), number of items purchased ([1]), etc. of the purchased product are displayed in this current display area CR. Also, a circled number MC is displayed above the button BTd that returns to the details. The circled number MC indicates the number of data stored in the current area 63. With this scan screen SCf displayed, when the customer holds the barcode of the purchased product up to the camera 45 so that it fits inside the frame CM, the information terminal 40 can read the barcode. In other words, the scan screen SCf is an example of the first screen.

[0080] When the touch panel 44 screen is set to the scan screen SCf, the processor 41 returns to the standby state of ACT13 to ACT16 in Figure 9. In this standby state, when a barcode is read, the processor 41 executes the processes of ACT31 and ACT39 to ACT45 in Figure 10 in the same manner as described above.

[0081] Therefore, for example, when the barcode of a purchased item with product name (product AAAAAA) is read, followed by the barcode of a purchased item with product name (product BBBBBB), the screen of the touch panel 44 becomes the scan screen SCg shown in Figure 22(c). That is, the current display area CR displays the product name (product BBBBBB), price (¥200), number of items purchased ([1]), etc. Also, the circled number MC increases from "1" to "2". This circled number MC allows the customer to know the number of items scanned consecutively.

[0082] If the customer wants to check the data of a previously scanned item, they swipe the current display area CR from left to right on the screen, for example. This changes the content of the current display area CR, as shown in the scan screen SCh in Figure 22(d), from the data of the purchased item with product name (product BBBBBB) to the data of the purchased item with product name (product AAAAAA). The circled number MC remains unchanged.

[0083] In this way, by selecting continuous scan mode, customers can continuously scan the barcodes of purchased items without having to operate the scan button BTa again. At this time, the data of the most recently purchased item is displayed in the current display area CR, so customers can check information such as the product name and price of the items whose barcodes they have scanned. In addition, information on items scanned between switching from the scan screen in continuous scan mode to another screen, i.e., information on items before the most recently purchased item, can also be checked by swiping the current display area CR. However, even if a customer moves from the scan screen to another screen, such as the registration screen (details screen), and then returns to the scan screen in continuous scan mode, they cannot check all purchased items in the current display area CR. To check all purchased items, the customer touches BTD to return to the details screen.

[0084] In the standby state of ACT13 to ACT16, when the button BTd (return to details) is pressed, the processor 41 proceeds to ACT81 in Figure 13. As ACT81, the processor 41 stops the camera 45. The processor 41 also clears the data in the current area 63 as ACT82. After that, based on the data stored in the list area 61, the processor 41 changes the screen of the touch panel 44 from the scan screen SCg in continuous scan mode to the registration screen (product). detail The screen switches to SCi (see Figure 23(a)). Then, processor 41 enters the waiting state for ACT51 to ACT54 as shown in Figure 11.

[0085] The registration screen SCi displays the product names, prices, etc., of the items the customer has registered so far, categorized by product. The registration screen SCi is an example of the second screen. Also, the button BTd that returns to the details on the scan screen SCe functions as the first instruction unit.

[0086] After the customer has confirmed the registration screen SCi, they touch the scan button BTa when they want to scan the barcode of the item they are purchasing. The processor 41, which is in standby mode for ACT51 to ACT54, proceeds to ACT55 when the scan button BTa is pressed. As ACT55, the processor 41 checks the mode flag MF. At this point, the mode flag MF is "1", so the processor 41 proceeds to ACT57. As ACT57, the processor 41 switches the screen of the touch panel 44 from the registration screen SCi to the continuous scan mode scan screen SCe (see Figure 22(a)). Then the processor 41 proceeds to ACT12 in Figure 9. After restarting the camera 45, the processor 41 enters standby mode for ACT13 to ACT16. Therefore, the customer can once again continuously scan the barcodes of the items they are purchasing. Note that at this point, since the current area 63 was cleared in ACT82, the current display area CR is not displayed on the scan screen SCe. Here, the scan button BTa on the registration screen SCi functions as a second instruction unit. The processor 41 then executes the processing of ACT82 to realize its function as a clearing means.

[0087] When a customer wants to switch the operating mode back from continuous scan mode to single scan mode, they switch the mode switching switch SW on the scan screen SCe from on to off. In the standby state of ACT13 to ACT16 in Figure 9, when the mode switching switch SW is switched from on to off, the processor 41 proceeds to ACT17. As ACT17, the processor 41 checks the mode flag MF. In this case, the mode flag MF is "1", so the processor 41 proceeds to ACT20. As ACT20, the processor 41 sets the mode flag MF to "0". The processor 41 also clears the data in the current area 63 as ACT21. As ACT22, the processor 41 switches the screen of the touch panel 44 from the scan screen SCe in continuous scan mode to the scan screen SCc in single scan mode. The processor 41 then returns to the standby state of ACT13 to ACT16. Therefore, in continuous scan mode, even if the customer switches the mode switch SW to select single scan mode without touching the button BTd to return to the details, the data in current area 63 will be cleared.

[0088] Thus, the processor 41 functions as a switching means by working in cooperation with the mode switching switch SW to execute the processing of ACT18 or ACT20 in Figure 9. Furthermore, the processor 41 functions as a control means by executing the processing of ACT19 or ACT21.

[0089] Next, we will explain what to do if the purchased item does not have a barcode. Some products, such as fresh food, do not have barcodes. If the purchased item does not have a barcode, the customer should touch the "No Barcode" button (BTb).

[0090] When the no-barcode button BTb is pressed while the touch panel 44 is displaying either the single-scan mode scan screen or the continuous-scan mode scan screen, and the camera 45 is activated, the processor 41 proceeds to ACT61 in Figure 12. The processor 41 stops the camera 45 as ACT61. After that, the processor 41 proceeds to ACT62. When the registration screen is displayed on the touch panel 44, and the camera 45 is stopped, and the camera 45 is in standby mode for ACT9 and ACT10, or in standby mode for ACT51 to ACT54, the no-barcode button BTb is pressed, the processor 41 skips the processing of ACT61 and proceeds to ACT62. The processor 41 displays a list of products without barcodes on the touch panel 44 as ACT62. The processor 41 then waits for the purchase product to be selected.

[0091] The customer selects the items to purchase by touching them from the list. Once the items are selected, the processor 41 proceeds to ACT 64. The processor 41 controls the wireless unit 46 to send a registration notification. This control causes the wireless unit 46 to wirelessly transmit a registration notification command. The registration notification command is received by the access point 27 and sent to the registration support server 11 via the router 26 of the POS system 20. The registration notification command includes the product code and transaction identification code of the selected items.

[0092] Upon receiving the registration notification command, the registration support server 11 executes the registration notification process already described using Figure 17. Therefore, the processor 41, which controlled the transmission of the registration notification command, waits for the details response command as ACT65. Upon receiving the details response command via the wireless unit 46, the processor 41 proceeds to ACT66. As ACT66, the processor 41 extracts the details data from the details response command with the update flag F set to "1". Then, as ACT67, the processor 41 adds the details data to the list area 61. The processor 41 also obtains the total points, total amount, and total discount amount from the details response command as ACT68 and overwrites the total area 62. Furthermore, as ACT69, the processor 41 clears the data in the current area 63. Then, as ACT70, the processor 41 sets the touch panel 44 screen as the registration screen. At this time, the details list display section ARb of the registration screen is updated with the product name, price, purchase quantity, etc., of products without barcodes. Additionally, the total points and total amount displayed in the ARa section will be increased by the number of items without barcodes.

[0093] Subsequently, the processor 41 enters the standby state of ACT51 to ACT54 in Figure 11. Therefore, when the customer touches the scan button BTa to continue scanning the barcodes of purchased items, if single-scan mode is selected, the screen of the touch panel 44 switches from the registration screen to the single-scan mode scan screen SCc. On the other hand, if continuous scan mode is selected, the screen of the touch panel 44 switches from the registration screen to the continuous scan mode scan screen SCe. Therefore, the customer can scan the barcodes of purchased items continuously again. Note that even at this point, since the current area 63 is cleared in ACT69, the current display area CR is not displayed on the scan screen SCe.

[0094] Incidentally, the continuous scan mode is effective when purchasing multiple identical items at once. For example, consider purchasing three of the same item. In single-scan mode, the scan button BTa must be pressed each time the barcode of an item is scanned, which can be cumbersome. In contrast, in continuous scan mode, once the scan button BTa is pressed initially, the barcodes of the three items can be scanned consecutively. Alternatively, the barcode of one item can be scanned three times in a row. Therefore, it is not cumbersome. Note that in this case, the display in the current display area CR does not change, but the circled number MC changes from "1" to "2" to "3". This change in the circled number MC allows the customer to recognize that the three items have been registered correctly.

[0095] However, when purchasing multiple identical items at once, the same barcode will need to be scanned repeatedly by the information terminal 40, which may feel cumbersome. In such cases, the customer can simply change the number of items displayed on the registration screen to the number of items purchased. Therefore, the function for changing the number of items purchased will be explained next.

[0096] For example, if the registration screen SCi shown in Figure 23 is displayed on the touch panel 44, and the customer wants to change the purchase quantity of product name "Product AAAAAA" from "1" to "8", the customer taps the field where product name "Product AAAAAA" is displayed to select the target product. Then, the processor 41, which was in the standby state of ACT51 to ACT54 in Figure 11, proceeds to ACT91 in Figure 14.

[0097] The processor 41, as ACT91, switches the screen of the touch panel 44 from the registration screen SCi to the score change screen SCj (see Figure 23(b)). As shown in Figure 23, the score change screen SCj displays the current purchase score in area ARc, along with the product name and price of the product whose score is to be changed. An add button BTe is placed on one side of this area ARc, and a subtract button BTf is placed on the other side. In addition, a back button BTg and an OK button BTh are also placed.

[0098] After viewing the score change screen SCj, the customer touches the add button BTe seven times. As a result, the value in area ARc becomes "8", as shown in the score change screen SCk in Figure 23(c), and the customer touches the OK button BTh.

[0099] The processor 41, which displays the score change screen SCj, waits for either the OK button BTh to be input as ACT92, or the return button BTg to be input as ACT93. When the OK button BTh is input while waiting for ACT92 or ACT93, the processor 41 controls the wireless unit 46 to send a change notification as ACT95. This control causes the wireless unit 46 to wirelessly transmit a change notification command. The change notification command is received by the access point 27 and sent to the registration support server 11 via the router 26 of the POS system 20. The change notification command includes the product code of the product to be changed, as well as the score in area ARc, i.e., the changed purchase score. The change notification command also includes the transaction identification code stored in the information terminal 40.

[0100] Upon receiving the change notification command, the registration support server 11 executes the change notification process. Figure 18 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the change notification process. When the processor 41 of the registration support server 11 receives a change notification command via the communication interface 115, it obtains the transaction identification code from the change notification command as ACT151. Then, the processor 111 selects the transaction file 51 in which the transaction identification code is stored as ACT152.

[0101] Processor 111 selects the item data for the product code included in the change notification process from the item data stored in the transaction file 51 as ACT153, and changes the number of items purchased in that item data to the number of items purchased included in the change notification process. Then, processor 41 recalculates the total number of items, total amount, etc. in the transaction file as ACT154.

[0102] Processor 111 sets the update flag F for other item data to "0" as ACT155. Processor 111 also sets the update flag F for item data with changed purchase quantity to "1" as ACT156. Then, as ACT157, Processor 111 sends an item response command to the information terminal 40 that sent the change notification command.

[0103] Returning to the explanation of Figure 14. The processor 41, which controls the transmission of the change notification command, waits for the detail response command as ACT96. Upon receiving the detail response command via the wireless unit 46, the processor 41 proceeds to ACT97. As ACT97, the processor 41 extracts the detail data from the detail response command in which the update flag F is set to "1". Then, as ACT98, the processor 41 changes the number of items in the list area 61 containing the same product code as the detail data to the changed number of items purchased. The processor 41 also obtains the total number of items, total amount, and total discount amount from the detail response command as ACT99 and overwrites the total area 62.

[0104] Processor 41, as ACT100, switches the screen of the touch panel 44 from the point change screen SCk to the registration screen SCl (see Figure 23(d)). The registration screen SCl is an example screen when the number of items purchased for the product named "product AAAAAA" is changed from "1" to "8". After that, processor 41 enters the standby state of ACT51 to ACT54 in Figure 11. Therefore, when the customer touches the scan button BTa to continue scanning the barcodes of the purchased items, if single scan mode is selected, the screen of the touch panel 44 switches from the registration screen to the scan screen SCc for single scan mode. On the other hand, if continuous scan mode is selected, the screen of the touch panel 44 switches from the registration screen to the scan screen SCe for continuous scan mode. Therefore, the customer can continue scanning the barcodes of the purchased items. Note that even at this point, the current area 63 is cleared, so the current display area CR is not displayed on the scan screen SCe.

[0105] Incidentally, the score change screen SCj is also used when a customer cancels the purchase of an item during shopping. On the registration screen, the customer taps the field displaying the name of the item to be canceled to select the item. The touch panel 44 then switches from the registration screen to the score change screen SCj, and the customer touches the subtraction button BTf to set the value in area ARc to "0". Then the customer touches the OK button BTh. As a result, the processor 41 executes the processing of ACT95 to ACT100 in Figure 14 in the same way as described above. As a result, the purchase score for the item becomes "0", and the item is removed from the purchased items. It is preferable to keep items with a purchase score of "0" on the registration screen by, for example, displaying a strikethrough over the product name, or by using a different text color from other items with a purchase score of "1" or more.

[0106] Now, the customer who has finished shopping touches the payment button BTc on the registration screen SCl. When the payment button BTc is pressed, the processor 41, which is in the waiting state for ACT51 to ACT54 in Figure 11, proceeds to ACT111 in Figure 15. The processor 41 controls the wireless unit 46 to perform a payment notification as ACT111. This control causes the wireless unit 46 to wirelessly transmit a payment notification command. The payment notification command is received by the access point 27 and transmitted to the registration support server 11 via the router 26 of the POS system 20. The payment notification command includes a transaction identification code.

[0107] Upon receiving the payment notification command, the registration support server 11 executes the payment notification process. Figure 19 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the payment notification process. When the processor 41 of the registration support server 11 receives a payment notification command via the communication interface 115, it obtains a transaction identification code from the payment notification command as ACT161. Then, the processor 111 selects the transaction file 51 in which the transaction identification code is stored as ACT162.

[0108] Processor 111 analyzes the data stored in transaction file 51 as ACT163 to determine whether settlement is possible. For example, for products where the product name, price, etc. could not be read for the product code, error data remains. In this case, settlement is not possible.

[0109] If payment is not possible, processor 111 proceeds to ACT 164. Processor 111 notifies the store terminal used by the attendant for monitoring that the customer, including the erroneous item, has declared payment. Processor 111 then sends a denial response command as ACT 165 to the information terminal 40 that sent the payment notification command. The attendant who receives the notification will then take appropriate action, such as verifying the customer's purchased items.

[0110] On the other hand, if payment is possible, processor 111 proceeds to ACT166. Processor 111 creates a unique accounting code as ACT166. Processor 111 saves that accounting code as ACT167 in transaction file 51. Processor 111 sends an acceptance response command as ACT168 to the information terminal 40 that sent the payment notification command.

[0111] Returning to the explanation of Figure 15. The processor 41, which controls the sending of the payment notification command, waits for a response command as ACT112. If it receives a negative response command from the registration support server 11, the processor 41 performs error processing. For example, the processor 41 displays an error message on the touch panel 44 such as, "Self-service payment is not available. Please pay at a manned payment machine."

[0112] If an acceptance response command is received, the processor 41 proceeds to ACT113. As ACT113, the processor 41 switches the screen of the touch panel 44 from the registration screen SCi to the accounting screen SCm (see Figure 24). As shown in Figure 24, the accounting screen SCm displays the accounting code as a barcode BC. A back button BTi is also provided.

[0113] Processor 41 waits for the back button BTi to be pressed as ACT114, or for the payment completion response command to be received as ACT115. If the back button BTi is pressed, processor 41 proceeds to ACT116. Processor 41 returns the screen of the touch panel 44 from the accounting screen SCm to the previous registration screen SCl as ACT116. Processor 41 then enters the waiting state for ACT51 to ACT54 as shown in Figure 11.

[0114] The payment completion response command is sent from the registration support server 11 when the customer finishes paying at the dedicated payment terminal 24. After the customer checks the payment screen SCm, they scan the barcode BC on the payment screen SCm with the scanner on the dedicated payment terminal 24. Then, the dedicated payment terminal 24 sends a payment request command to the registration support server 11. The payment request command contains the data of barcode BC, which is the payment code.

[0115] Upon receiving a settlement request command, the processor 111 of the registration support server 11 starts the settlement request processing according to the procedure shown in Figure 20. Specifically, the processor 1111 obtains the accounting code from the settlement request command as ACT171. Then, the processor 111 selects the transaction file 51 in which the transaction identification code is stored as ACT172.

[0116] Processor 111 sends the data from transaction file 51 as ACT173 to the dedicated accounting machine 24, the source of the settlement request command. As a result, the transaction details are displayed on the dedicated accounting machine 24's screen, and the customer confirms the details and then pays the amount due. Once the payment is complete, the dedicated accounting machine 24 sends a settlement completion command to the registration support server.

[0117] After transmitting the data from transaction file 51 to the dedicated accounting machine 24, processor 111 waits for a settlement completion command as ACT174. Upon receiving the settlement completion command, processor 111 proceeds to ACT175. As ACT175, processor 111 sends a settlement completion response command to the information terminal 40 identified by the transaction identification code in transaction file 51.

[0118] When the processor 41 of the information terminal 40, which is displaying the payment screen SCm, receives a payment completion response command, it proceeds to ACT117. Processor 41 clears the list area 61 as ACT117. Processor 41 also clears the total area 62 as ACT118. After that, processor 41 erases the payment screen SCm as ACT119. This completes the self-service shopping using the information terminal 40.

[0119] [Effects and benefits of information terminals] As detailed above, when a customer switches the mode switching switch SW on the scan screen SCc displayed on the touch panel 44 of the information terminal 40 from off to on, the operating mode changes from single scan mode to continuous scan mode. When the operating mode is changed to continuous scan mode, the screen of the touch panel 44 becomes the continuous scan mode scan screen SCe. The scan screen SCe displays a frame CM indicating the code reading area, so the customer holds the camera 45 of the information terminal 40 over the purchased item so that the barcode fits inside the frame CM. Then, the barcode is read by the reading function of the information terminal 40. The product data such as the product name and price of the product identified by that barcode is then displayed in the current display area CR, which is part of the scan screen SCe. At this time, the frame CM remains displayed on the scan screen SCe. Therefore, the customer can have the barcode of the next purchased item read without any special button input operation. In this way, by selecting the continuous scan mode, the customer can perform the barcode reading operation of purchased items without feeling that it is complicated.

[0120] To switch back from continuous scan mode to single scan mode, simply switch the mode selector switch SW on the scan screen SCc from on to off. Therefore, you can switch between single scan mode and continuous scan mode with a simple operation.

[0121] The product data displayed in the current display area CR of the scan screen SCe is stored in the current area 63 in the order it was registered. When the customer swipes the current display area CR, the displayed content of the current display area CR changes to the data of the previously purchased product. Therefore, the customer can easily check not only the data of the most recently purchased product but also the data of previously scanned purchased products on the scan screen SCe. In addition, the number of consecutively scanned products is also displayed in a part of the scan screen SCe. Therefore, the customer can easily understand how many consecutive products they have scanned.

[0122] The information terminal 40 extracts detail data with the update flag F set to "1" from the detail data sent from the registration support server 11, which is a higher-level device, and stores it in the current area 63, which is a storage unit. Therefore, the processing load on the processor 41 can be reduced compared to rewriting the data in the current area 63 with all the detail data each time detail data is sent from the registration support server 11. Furthermore, for example, if a customer touches the button BTd to return to the details on the scan screen SCe, and the touch panel 44 screen changes to the registration screen SCi, the information terminal 40 clears the current area 63. Therefore, if the scan button BTa is touched afterward, the touch panel 44 screen becomes the scan screen SCe in continuous scan mode, but since the current area 63 has been cleared, the current display area CR is not displayed. Similarly, if a customer touches the no barcode button BTb in continuous scan mode, or if the mode switch is temporarily switched from continuous scan mode to single scan mode and then back to continuous scan mode, the information terminal 40 also clears the current area 63. In this way, the product data stored in the current area 63 is limited to products whose barcodes have been read consecutively, so the storage capacity of the current area 63 can be reduced compared to the list area 61.

[0123] [Differentiation] In the above embodiment, a smartphone was assumed as the information terminal 40. The information terminal 40 may be, for example, a tablet terminal attached to a shopping cart, or a mobile terminal lent by the store to the customer. In this case, the processing of ACT1 to ACT5 in Figure 8 is omitted. Specifically, a declaration button to start shopping is displayed on the initial screen of the tablet terminal or mobile terminal. When the customer touches this declaration button, the processor 41 determines YES in ACT6 and starts processing from ACT7. By using such a configuration, the above-mentioned tablet terminal or mobile terminal can be applied as the information terminal 40.

[0124] In the above embodiment, the registration support server 11 sent the information terminal 40 with the detail data for n details stored in the transaction file 51, including it in the detail response command. In this regard, the processor 111 of the registration support server 11 may extract the detail data for which the update flag F is set to "1", include it in the detail response command, and send it to the information terminal 40. By doing so, the information terminal 40 can omit the processing of ACT35, ACT41, ACT66, and ACT97.

[0125] In the above embodiment, the processor 41 of the information terminal 40 determines whether the operating mode is single scan mode or continuous scan mode, and displays the scan screen SCc in single scan mode and displays the scan screen SCe in continuous scan mode. In this regard, the registration support server 11 determines the operating mode of the information terminal 40. Then, in single scan mode, it provides the information terminal 40 with the information necessary to display the scan screen SCc, and in continuous scan mode, it provides the information terminal 40 with the information necessary to display the scan screen SCe. By adopting this configuration, the product registration system 100 including the registration support server 11 and the information terminal 40 can achieve the effects of this embodiment.

[0126] In the above embodiment, an example was given of changing the number of items purchased using the item change screen SCj. However, it is not necessary to use the item change screen SCj to change the number of items. For example, the number of items purchased displayed in the details list display section ARb of the registration screen SCi may be displayed in a cell of a pull-down list, and the user may select the new number of items purchased from the pull-down list. Alternatively, instead of the item change screen SCj, a numeric keypad screen may be displayed, and the new number of items purchased may be entered manually.

[0127] In the above embodiment, the processor 41 cleared the data in the current area 63 as part of the processing of ACT20, ACT69, or ACT82. The timing of clearing the data in the current area 63 is not limited to this. For example, the data in the current area 63 may be cleared when the scan button BTa is pressed in ACT51 in Figure 11. Alternatively, for example, the data in the current area 63 may be cleared before or after setting the mode flag MF to "1" in ACT18 in Figure 9.

[0128] The code read by the information terminal 40 is not limited to a barcode. For example, it may be a two-dimensional code that encodes information for identifying a product.

[0129] The registration support server 11 does not have to be a single server. The functions of the registration support server 11 may be distributed among multiple servers. Furthermore, the registration support server 11 does not have to utilize cloud computing. For example, the store server 21 or other servers may have the functions of the registration support server 11.

[0130] In addition, several embodiments of the present invention have been described, but these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included within the scope of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention and its equivalents as described in the claims. The invention described in the original claims of this application is listed below. [1] An information terminal comprising: a reading unit for reading a code for identifying a product; a display unit for displaying a first screen to assist the reading of the code by the reading unit; a communication unit for transmitting the code read by the reading unit to a host device and receiving product data identified by the code from the host device; a switching means for switching between a continuous reading mode in which the reading unit can continuously read the code and a single-shot reading mode in which the code cannot be read continuously; and a control means for displaying the product data received by the communication unit on a part of the first screen on the display unit when in the continuous reading mode to enable continuous reading of the code by the reading unit, and for displaying the product data received by the communication unit on a second screen separate from the first screen on the display unit when in the single-shot reading mode to disable continuous reading of the code by the reading unit. [2] An information terminal as described in Appendix [1], further comprising: a storage unit that sequentially stores the product data identified by the code read by the reading unit, wherein the control means displays the latest product data stored in the storage unit on a part of the first screen when in the continuous reading mode, and displays the product data stored in the storage unit in reverse order of storage in response to a back-to-back instruction, replacing the latest product data. [3] An information terminal as described in Appendix [2], further comprising: an extraction means for extracting product data relating to a product identified by the latest code read by the reading unit from the product data received by the communication unit, wherein the storage unit sequentially stores the product data extracted by the extraction means. [4] An information terminal as described in Appendix [2] or [3], further comprising: a first instruction unit for instructing the display unit to transition the image from the first screen to the second screen; a second instruction unit for instructing the display unit to transition the image from the second screen to the first screen; and a clearing means for clearing the product data stored in the storage unit when a screen transition is instructed by the first instruction unit or the second instruction unit. [5] The information terminal as described in Appendix [4], wherein the display unit is a touch panel, the first instruction unit is a touch button displayed on the display unit together with the first screen, and the second instruction unit is a touch button displayed on the display unit together with the second screen. [6] A program to cause a computer in an information terminal, which includes a reading unit for reading a code to identify a product, a display unit for displaying a first screen to assist the reading of the code by the reading unit, and a communication unit for transmitting the code read by the reading unit to a host device and receiving product data identified by the code from the host device, to function as a switching means for switching between a continuous reading mode in which the reading unit can continuously read the code and a single-shot reading mode in which the code cannot be read continuously, and a control means for displaying the product data received by the communication unit on a part of the first screen in the display unit to enable continuous reading of the code by the reading unit when in the continuous reading mode, and for displaying the product data received by the communication unit on a second screen separate from the first screen in the display unit to disable continuous reading of the code by the reading unit when in the single-shot reading mode. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0131] 10…Server system, 11…Registration support server, 14…Product master, 20…POS system, 21…Store server, 22…Monitoring terminal, 23…POS terminal, 24…Dedicated accounting machine, 30…Network, 40…Information terminal, 41…Processor, 42…Internal memory, 43…External memory, 44…Touch panel, 45…Camera, 46…Wireless unit, 50…Transaction file, 60…Self-registration program, 61…List area, 62…Total area, 63…Current area, 111…Processor 112...Main memory, 113...Auxiliary storage device, 114...Clock, 115...Communication interface, SCa...Check-in screen, SCb, SCd, SCi, SCl...Registration screen, SCc, SCe, SCf, SCg, SCh...Scan screen, SCj, SCj...Point change screen, SCm...Accounting screen, BTa...Scan button, BTB...No barcode button, BTC...Payment button, BTD...Return to details button, CR...Current display area, SW...Mode switching switch.

Claims

1. A reader unit that reads a code to identify the product, A display unit that displays a screen showing the reading area of ​​the code by the reading unit, A storage unit that sequentially stores product data identified by the code read by the reading unit, An information terminal comprising: a control means that displays only one item of product data from the product data stored in the storage unit relating to the product identified by the code most recently read by the reading unit on a part of the screen indicating the reading area of ​​the display unit, thereby enabling continuous reading of the code by the reading unit; and a control means that switches the single item of product data displayed to display other item data stored in the storage unit in response to a predetermined input to the part of the screen.

2. The information terminal according to claim 1, wherein the control means causes the number of product data stored in the storage unit to be displayed on a part of the screen showing the reading area of ​​the display unit.

3. The information terminal according to claim 1, wherein the control means, in response to a back-link instruction, displays product data stored in the storage unit in chronological order, prior to product data displayed on a part of the screen.

4. The information terminal according to claim 1, further comprising a switching means for switching the screen of the display unit to a product details screen showing information on all products for which product data is stored in the storage unit.

5. The information terminal according to claim 4, wherein the product details screen includes an operator for returning the screen of the display unit to a screen showing the code reading area.

6. The information terminal according to claim 5, wherein the product details screen includes an operator for instructing payment of the transaction price.

7. A computer for an information terminal comprising a reading unit that reads a code for identifying a product, and a display unit that displays a screen showing the reading area of ​​the code by the reading unit, A storage means for sequentially storing product data identified by the code read by the reading unit in a storage unit, and A control means that, in a part of the screen indicating the reading area of ​​the display unit, displays only one item of product data from the product data stored in the storage unit relating to the product identified by the code most recently read by the reading unit, thereby enabling continuous reading of the code by the reading unit, and further, in response to a predetermined input to the part of the screen, switches the single item of product data displayed to display other item data stored in the storage unit. A program designed to function as such.

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