Transaction processing system, settlement device, and settlement program

Abstract

To prevent the decline in processing efficiency in a shared transaction processing system, in which operations are shared between clerks and customers.SOLUTION: An input processor creates settlement information pertaining to a transaction based on input data and transmits the settlement information to a predetermined settlement device among multiple settlement devices. The settlement device that receives the settlement information executes settlement processing based on the settlement information received by receiving means when the settlement device is ready to execute the settlement processing. When the settlement device is not capable of executing the settlement processing, the settlement device searches for information indicating connection states of multiple settlement devices to a network and selects one of the other settlement devices that are connected to the network. The settlement device transfers the settlement information to the selected other settlement device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a transaction processing system, a settlement device of this system, and a settlement program for causing a computer to function as the settlement device.

Background Art

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

[0003] In the shared transaction processing system, since the store clerk performs the product data input operation, the time required for data input is shorter than that of the self-service transaction processing 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, the shared transaction processing system includes, for example, three or more settlement devices for one input processing device. Transfer priorities of settlement information are set in advance for three or more settlement devices.

[0004] The input processing unit transmits the information necessary for transaction settlement to the settlement unit with the highest transfer priority (first settlement unit). If the first settlement unit has already settled the previous customer's transaction and is able to process the settlement, it processes the transaction based on that information. If the settlement of the previous customer's transaction is still ongoing and the first settlement unit is unable to process the transaction, it transmits the information necessary for transaction settlement to the settlement unit with the second highest transfer priority (second settlement unit). The second settlement unit processes the transaction based on the information received from the first settlement unit. If the second settlement unit is also unable to process the transaction, it transmits the information necessary for transaction settlement to the settlement unit with the third highest transfer priority (third settlement unit). The third settlement unit processes the transaction based on the information received from the second settlement unit. In this way, the conventional shared transaction processing system efficiently operates three or more settlement units to settle many transactions in a short amount of time.

[0005] However, if, for example, the second settlement device is powered off and cannot receive the information necessary for settlement of the transaction, the information necessary for settlement of the transaction will not be transferred from the second settlement device to the third settlement device. As a result, not only the second settlement device but also settlement devices with a lower transfer priority than the second settlement device will be unable to process the settlement of the transaction, leading to a decrease in processing efficiency. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2013-242839 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] The problem that the embodiments of the present invention aim to solve is to prevent a decrease in processing efficiency in a transaction processing system that uses a shared operation method in which store clerks and customers share the operation. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In one embodiment, the transaction processing system comprises an input processing device and a plurality of settlement devices connected by a network. The input processing device includes a creation means and a transmission means. The creation means creates settlement information related to a transaction based on the input data. The transmission means transmits the settlement information via the network to a predetermined settlement device among the plurality of settlement devices. The settlement device includes a receiving means, an execution means, a selection means, and a transfer means. The receiving means receives the settlement information via the network. The execution means executes the settlement process based on the settlement information received by the receiving means when the settlement device is in a state where it can perform settlement processing. The selection means searches for information indicating the network connection status of the plurality of settlement devices and selects one of the other settlement devices that are connected to the network when the settlement device is in a state where it cannot perform settlement processing. The transfer means transfers the settlement information to the other settlement device selected by the selection means. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of the transaction processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the input processing unit that constitutes the transaction processing system. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of a data table in an input processing device. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the settlement device that constitutes the transaction processing system. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of the data table in the payment device. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the first information processing performed by the processor of the input processing device according to the registered program. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the third information processing step performed by the payment device's processor according to the payment program. [Figure 8]Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating the fourth information processing step performed by the payment device's processor according to the payment program. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the second information processing procedure executed by the input processing unit's processor according to the registered program. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the transaction processing system when the first settlement device configured in the master unit is in a state where settlement processing is possible. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the transaction processing system when settlement processing is impossible in the first settlement device. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the transaction processing system when the second settlement device fails to receive settlement information transferred from the first settlement device. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the transaction processing system when settlement information is resent from the input processing unit. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a flowchart showing a third information processing procedure performed by the payment device's processor in accordance with the payment program in a second embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the first information processing performed by the processor of the input processing device in accordance with the registered program in the second embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The following describes, with reference to drawings, an embodiment of a transaction processing system in which store employees and customers share the operation, and which prevents a decrease in processing efficiency.

[0011] [First Embodiment] [Explanation of the Transaction Processing System Configuration] First, the configuration of the transaction processing system 100 according to the first embodiment will be explained with reference to Figures 1 to 5. Note that the configuration described below is an example. Parts of the configuration can be appropriately modified if similar effects can be achieved.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the schematic configuration of the transaction processing system 100. The transaction processing system 100 includes an input processing device 11, a settlement device 12, a server 13, and a network 14 connecting these. The type of the network 14 is not particularly limited, but generally a wired or wireless LAN (local area network) is applied.

[0013] The input processing device 11 is a device configured to receive data input of the goods traded in each transaction. The settlement device 12 is a device configured to perform settlement processing of the transaction based on the data of the goods input by the input processing device 11. The input processing device 11 is operated by a store clerk 21 who plays a role called a checker. The settlement device 12 is operated by a consumer who purchases goods at the store, that is, a customer 22. In FIG. 1, the input processing device 11 is attached to a work table 23. The work table 23 has a rectangular top plate. A plurality of work tables 23 are arranged such that the longitudinal directions of the top plates are substantially parallel to each other, thereby forming a passage for the customer 22, that is, a so-called checkout lane.

[0014] The input processing device 11 and the settlement device 12 are arranged for each checkout lane of the store. For one checkout lane, one input processing device 11 is arranged, and a plurality of settlement devices 12 are arranged. Then, various data signals are exchanged between the input processing device 11 and the settlement device 12 arranged in the same checkout lane through the network 14. The data signals may be exchanged via the server 13 or may be exchanged without passing through the server 13.

[0015] In FIG. 1, an example is shown in which one input processing device 11 and three settlement devices 12 (12-1, 12-2, 12-3) are arranged in one checkout lane. Although not shown, in other checkout lanes, one input processing device 11 and two or more settlement devices 12 are arranged. The three settlement devices 12 (12-1, 12-2, 12-3) all execute the settlement process for transactions processed by the input processing device 11 arranged in the same checkout lane. At least one of the three settlement devices 12 (12-1, 12-2, 12-3) may execute the settlement process for transactions processed by the input processing device 11 arranged in an adjacent checkout lane.

[0016] One of the three settlement devices 12 (12-1, 12-2, 12-3) is set as the master device, and the other two are set as slave devices. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the settlement device 12-1 is set as the master device, and the settlement devices 12-2 and 12-3 are set as slave devices. Note that the slave settlement devices 12-2 and 12-3 have a function of monitoring the state of the master settlement device 12-1 and declaring themselves as the master device when the settlement device 12-1 goes down. Upon receiving this declaration, the input processing device 11 sets either one of the slave settlement devices 12-2 and 12-3 as the master device.

[0017] The server 13 includes a product master file 15. The product master file 15 may be stored in a storage device built into the server 13, or may be stored in a storage device connected externally to the server 13.

[0018] The product master file 15 is a data file that stores product records created for each product sold in the store. The product record is a data record that describes product data such as product code, product name, unit price, and attributes.

[0019] 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 processing 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.

[0020] 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).

[0021] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the input processing device 11. The input processing device 11 includes a processor 31, main memory 32, auxiliary storage device 33, clock 34, communication unit 35, keyboard 36, scanner 37, touch panel 38, customer display 39, printer 40, and system transmission path 41, etc. The system transmission path 41 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission path 41 connects the processor 31 to the other parts directly or via signal input / output circuits and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0022] The input processing unit 11 constitutes 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 41. The input processing unit 11 then connects devices such as a keyboard 36, scanner 37, touch panel 38, customer display 39, and printer 40 to this computer via the system transmission path 41.

[0023] 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 an input processing unit 11 according to the operating system or application program. The processor 31 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0024] 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 of ​​main memory 32, the operating system or application programs are stored. 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 needed by the processor 31. 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 33 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 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.

[0026] 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 is an interface for data communication with the server 13 and multiple payment devices 12 connected via the network 14. The keyboard 36 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 37 is an input device that reads and inputs 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 store clerk who is the operator of the input processing device 11 and accepts operation input from the clerk. The customer display 39 displays information to the customer 22 whose purchased goods data is registered in the input processing device 11. The printer 40 issues receipts by printing various strings of characters or images on receipt paper.

[0027] For the hardware of such an input processing device 11, for example, an existing POS terminal can be used. Note that the devices connected to the input processing device 11 are not limited to the keyboard 36, scanner 37, touch panel 38, customer display 39, and printer 40. Additional devices may be added or some devices omitted depending on the application of the input processing device 11.

[0028] In the input processing device 11 with the above configuration, the processor 31 has the functions of a creation means 311, a transmission means 312, and a confirmation means 313. The creation means 311 has the function of creating settlement information related to a transaction based on data entered via an input device such as a keyboard 36, a scanner 37, or a touch panel 38.

[0029] The transmission means 312 has the function of transmitting payment information via the network 14 to payment device 12-1, which is set as the master unit among the multiple payment devices 12 (12-1, 12-2, 12-3). The payment information includes items such as transaction number, transaction date and time, terminal ID, product sales data, total number of items, and total amount. The transaction number is a sequential number issued for each transaction to identify each transaction with customer 22. The transaction date and time is the date and time the transaction took place. The terminal ID is identification information set in the input processing device 11 that processed the transaction. Each input processing device 11 is pre-set with a unique terminal ID. Incidentally, each payment device 12 is also set with a unique terminal ID. The product sales data consists of items such as product code, product name, unit price, number of items sold, sales amount, and attributes of the products purchased by customer 22. The payment information includes product sales data for all products purchased by customer 22 in that transaction. The total number of items is the sum of the number of items sold in the product sales data for one transaction. The total amount is the sum of the sales amounts from the product sales data for each transaction.

[0030] Such payment information is uniquely identified by the transaction number, transaction date and time, and terminal ID. In other words, the transaction number, transaction date and time, and terminal ID function as transaction identification information that can identify the payment information. However, transaction identification information is not limited to the transaction number, transaction date and time, and terminal ID. Other items may be added, or some items may be omitted, as long as they can identify the payment information. Furthermore, the data structure of the payment information is not limited to the items described above. Other items may be added, or some items may be omitted.

[0031] The verification means 313 is a function that checks the operating status of multiple payment devices 12 (121, 12-2, 12-3) that are located in the same checkout lane as the input processing device 11. The processor 31 uses the data table 321 to check the operating status of each payment device 12 (121, 12-2, 12-3).

[0032] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of data table 321. Data table 321 is located in the volatile memory area of ​​main memory 32. As shown in the figure, data table 321 has a data structure that stores the master unit flag F and the number of connections N, associated with each payment device ID of multiple payment devices 12 (121, 12-2, 12-3).

[0033] The master unit flag F is a 1-bit data that indicates whether the payment device 12 identified by the payment device ID is a master unit or not. In this embodiment, the master unit flag F is set to "1" to indicate that it is a master unit, and the master unit flag F is set to "0" to indicate that it is a slave unit other than a master unit. Incidentally, Figure 3 shows the case where the first payment device 12-1 with payment device ID "121" is a master unit, and the second payment device 12-2 with payment device ID "122" and the third payment device 12-3 with payment device ID "123" are both slave units.

[0034] The connection count N is a counter that is incremented each time the input processing device 11 confirms that it is connected to the payment device 12 identified by the payment device ID. In this embodiment, the connection count N for the first payment device 12-1 is Na, the connection count N for the second payment device 12-2 is Nb, and the connection count N for the third payment device 12-3 is Nc.

[0035] The functions of the creation means 311 and the transmission means 312 are realized by a first information processing performed by the processor 31 in accordance with the registration program. The function of the verification means 313 is realized by a second information processing performed by the processor 31 in accordance with the registration program. The first and second information processing will be described later.

[0036] The registration program is a type of application program stored in the main memory 32 or the auxiliary storage device 33. The method of installing the registration program in the main memory 32 or auxiliary storage device 33 is not particularly limited. The registration 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 be of any form as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device, such as a CD-ROM or memory card.

[0037] Furthermore, the program that enables the computer to function as the verification means 313 may be separate from the program that enables the computer to function as the creation means 311 and the transmission means 312.

[0038] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the payment device 12. In this embodiment, each payment device 12-1, 12-2, and 12-3 has the same configuration. Therefore, in Figure 4, each payment device 12-1, 12-2, and 12-3 will be described as payment device 12 without distinction.

[0039] The payment device 12 includes a processor 51, main memory 52, auxiliary storage device 53, clock 54, communication unit 55, change dispenser interface 56, scanner 57, touch panel 58, printer 59, reader / writer 60, warning light 61, and system transmission line 62, etc. The system transmission line 62 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission line 62 connects the processor 51 and the other parts directly or via signal input / output circuits and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0040] The payment device 12 constitutes a computer by connecting a processor 51, main memory 52, auxiliary storage device 53, clock 54, and communication unit 55 via a system transmission path 62. The payment device 12 then connects device interfaces or devices such as a change dispenser interface 56, scanner 57, touch panel 58, printer 59, reader / writer 60, and warning light 61 to its computer via the system transmission path 62.

[0041] The processor 51 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 51 controls each part in order to realize various functions as a payment device 12 according to the operating system or application program. The processor 51 is, for example, a CPU.

[0042] Main memory 52 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 52 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area, main memory 52 stores the operating system or application programs. Main memory 52 may also store data necessary for the processor 51 to perform processing to control each part in the non-volatile or volatile memory area. Main memory 52 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processor 51. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM.

[0043] The auxiliary storage device 53 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. For example, an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD could be the auxiliary storage device 53. The auxiliary storage device 53 stores data used by the processor 51 in performing various processes, data created by the processing performed by the processor 51, etc. The auxiliary storage device 53 may also store the application program described above.

[0044] The clock 54 measures the date and time. The processor 51 processes the date and time measured by the clock 54 as the current date and time. The communication unit 55 communicates data with the server 13 or input processing unit 11 connected via the network 14. The change dispenser interface 56 forms an interface with an automatic change dispenser (not shown). The change dispenser interface 56 receives monetary data of the money inserted into the automatic change dispenser from the automatic change dispenser. The change dispenser interface 56 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.

[0045] The scanner 57 is an input device for reading code symbols such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes. The touch panel 58 is a device that combines an input device and a display device. The touch panel 58 displays information to the customer 22, who is the operator of the payment device 12, and accepts operation input from the customer 22. The printer 59 issues a receipt by printing various strings of characters or images on receipt paper.

[0046] The reader / writer 60 has the function of reading data recorded on a medium such as a card or smartphone, and the function of writing data to the aforementioned medium. The card may include payment cards such as credit cards, debit cards, electronic money cards, and prepaid cards, as well as membership cards such as membership cards and point cards. The reader / writer 60 may be a magnetic, contact, or contactless device, or may include multiple types of devices.

[0047] The warning light 61 has, for example, two light-emitting elements, one red and one blue. The warning light 61 is installed at the top of a pole erected in the vicinity of the payment device 12, and lights up or flashes, for example, red or blue, depending on the state of the corresponding payment device 12.

[0048] For the hardware of such a payment device 12, for example, an existing self-service POS terminal, or so-called self-checkout register, can be used. Note that the devices connected to the payment device 12 are not limited to the scanner 57, touch panel 58, printer 59, reader / writer 60, and warning light 61. Additional devices may be added or some devices omitted depending on the application of the payment device 12.

[0049] In the payment device 12 with the above configuration, the processor 51 has the functions of a receiving means 511, an execution means 512, a selection means 513, a transfer means 514, a modification means 515, a notification means 516, and a recovery means 517.

[0050] The receiving means 511 has the function of receiving payment information transmitted from the input processing device 11 via the network 14 using the communication unit 55. The execution means 512 has the function of executing payment processing based on the payment information received by the receiving means 511 when the payment device 12 equipped with the processor 51 is in a state where it can execute payment processing. Hereinafter, the payment device 12 equipped with the processor 51 will be referred to as the payment device 12, and other payment devices 12 will be referred to as other payment devices.

[0051] The selection means 513 is a function that, when the payment device 12 is unable to perform payment processing, searches for information indicating the connection status of other payment devices 12 to the network 14 and selects one of the other payment devices 12 that are connected to the network 14. The processor 51 uses the data table 521 to select one of the other payment devices 12 that are connected to the network 14.

[0052] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of data table 521. Data table 521 is located in the volatile memory area of ​​main memory 52. ​​As shown in the figure, data table 521 has a data structure that stores the transfer order R and status S in association with each payment device ID of multiple payment devices 12 (12-1, 12-2, 12-3).

[0053] The transfer order R is the priority order when transferring payment information between multiple payment devices 12 (12-1, 12-2, 12-3). In this embodiment, the first payment device 12-1 with payment device ID "121" has a transfer order R of 1, the second payment device 12-2 with payment device ID "122" has a transfer order R of 2, and the third payment device 12-3 with payment device ID "123" has a transfer order R of 3. Note that the payment device 12-1 with a transfer order R of 1 is not necessarily the master device. As mentioned above, the payment devices 12-2 to 12-3 configured as slave devices have a function to monitor the status of the master payment device 12-1 and declare themselves to become the master device if payment device 12-1 goes down. Therefore, it is possible that payment device 12-2 or payment device 12-3 may become the master device.

[0054] Status S is information indicating the connection status of multiple payment devices 12 (12-1, 12-2, 12-3) to the network 14. There are three types of connection statuses: online, offline, and recovered. The online status is when the payment device 12 is able to receive data transmitted through the network 14. The offline status is when the payment device 12 is unable to receive data transmitted through the network 14. For example, a payment device 12 that is powered off will be in the offline status. For example, a payment device 12 that has experienced a communication system malfunction will also be in the offline status. The recovered status is when the payment device 12 has recovered from the offline status to the online status. In this embodiment, Status S representing the online status is set to "0", Status S representing the offline status is set to "2", and Status S representing the recovered status is set to "1". The status S of the first payment device 12-1 is set to Sa, the status S of the second payment device 12-2 is set to Sb, and the status S of the third payment device 12-3 is set to Sc.

[0055] Returning to the explanation of Figure 4. The transfer means 514 has the function of transferring (transmitting) payment information to another payment device 12 selected by the selection means 513. The change means 515 has the function of changing the status S for the other payment device 12 that failed to transfer payment information by the transfer means 514, i.e., the information indicating the connection status, from the value "0" indicating that it is connected to the network 14, to the value "2" indicating that it is disconnected from the network 14, if the transfer means 514 fails to transfer payment information. The notification means 516 has the function of notifying the input processing device 11 of the transfer failure if the transfer means 514 fails to transfer payment information. The recovery means 517 has the function of changing the status S for the other payment device 12 that was disconnected from the network 14, i.e., the information indicating the connection status, from the value "2" indicating that it is disconnected from the network 14, to the value "1" indicating that it is in a recovered state, if the other payment device 12 that was disconnected from the network 14 becomes connected to the network 14.

[0056] The functions of the receiving means 511, execution means 512, selection means 513, transfer means 514, modification means 515, and notification means 516 are realized by a third information processing performed by the processor 51 in accordance with the settlement program. The function of the recovery means 517 is realized by a fourth information processing performed by the processor 51 in accordance with the settlement program. The third and fourth information processing will be described later.

[0057] The payment program is a type of application program stored in the main memory 52 or the auxiliary storage device 53. The method of installing the payment program in the main memory 52 or auxiliary storage device 53 is not particularly limited. The payment program can be installed in the main memory 52 or auxiliary storage device 53 by recording it on a removable recording medium or by distributing it via communication over the network 14. The recording medium can be of any form as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device, such as a CD-ROM or memory card.

[0058] The program that enables the computer to function as a recovery means 517 may be separate from the program that enables the computer to function as a receiving means 511, an execution means 512, a selection means 513, a transfer means 514, a modification means 515, and a notification means 516.

[0059] [Explanation of Information Processing] Next, the main information processing content and procedures of the input processing device 11 and settlement device 12, which constitute the transaction processing system 100, will be explained using the flowcharts in Figures 6 to 9. Note that the information processing content and procedures described below are examples. The content and procedures can be modified as appropriate if similar effects can be achieved.

[0060] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the first information processing performed by the processor 31 of the input processing unit 11 according to the registration program. Customer 22 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 22 arrives at the checkout lane, the store clerk 21, who is acting as the checker, declares the start of registration to the input processing unit 11. Upon receiving this operation, the processor 31 begins the first information processing.

[0061] First, the processor 31 displays a registration screen on the touch panel 38 as ACT1. The registration screen is a screen that, for example, has a details area and a total area, and also has a subtotal button. The details area is an area for displaying the product name, quantity, unit price, and amount in a list format in a sequential numbered order. The total area is an area for displaying the sum of the quantities (points) and the sum of the amounts (yen) displayed in the details area. The subtotal button is an operator that the store clerk 21 touches to instruct the customer 22 to output the subtotal of the purchased items.

[0062] The processor 31, which controls the display of the registration screen, waits for product-related data to be entered as ACT2. Many products have a barcode that represents the product code, which is the product's identification information. The store clerk 21 then operates the scanner 37 to read the barcode attached to the product purchased by the customer 22. When the barcode is read by the scanner 37, the product code of the purchased product is entered into the input processing device 11. On the other hand, some products, such as fresh food, do not have barcodes. If the purchased product does not have a barcode, the store clerk 21 touches the product button corresponding to the purchased product from the group of product buttons displayed on the touch panel 38. When a product button is touched, the product code of the product corresponding to that product button is entered into the input processing device 11.

[0063] When a product code is entered, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT2 to ACT3. As ACT3, the processor 31 executes product sales data processing. Specifically, the processor 31 retrieves product data such as product name, unit price, and attributes from the product record of the product identified by the product code entered via the scanner 37 or touch panel 38. The processor 31 then writes the product sales data, including items such as product code, product name, unit price, number of items sold, sales amount, and attributes, to the transaction memory. The transaction memory is part of the volatile memory area in the main memory 32.

[0064] After processing the product sales data, the processor 31 checks whether the subtotal button has been pressed as ACT4. The store clerk sequentially performs the operations to enter the product codes of the items purchased by customer 22. After entering the product codes of all purchased items, the clerk touches the subtotal button.

[0065] If the subtotal button is not pressed and the product code of the next purchased item is entered, the processor 31 returns from ACT4 to ACT2 and then proceeds to ACT3. In other words, the processor 31 performs product sales data processing based on the product code of the purchased item. As a result, the product sales data of the purchased items is sequentially stored in the transaction memory.

[0066] When the subtotal button is pressed, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT4 to ACT5. The processor 31 displays the subtotal screen as ACT5. The subtotal screen is a screen that contains a total area and also contains a checkout button, etc. The total area is the same as the total area on the registration screen. The checkout button is an operator that the store clerk 21 touches to instruct the customer 22 to proceed to checkout. After checking the subtotal screen, the store clerk 21 touches the checkout button.

[0067] The processor 31, which controls the display of the subplan screen, waits for the payment button to be entered as ACT6. When the payment button is entered, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT6 to ACT7. The processor 31 creates payment information as ACT7. That is, the processor 31 creates the payment information necessary for settling the transaction using the product sales data for each purchased item, the total number of items and total amount data stored in the transaction memory, and transaction identification data such as the transaction number, transaction date and time, and the terminal ID of the input processing device 11.

[0068] Once the payment information has been created, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT8. The processor 31 selects the payment device 12 that is set as the master unit for ACT8. That is, the processor 31 refers to the data table 321 and selects the payment device 12 identified by the payment device ID in which the master unit flag F is set to "1". In the following explanation, we will continue assuming that the data table 321 is in the state shown in Figure 3, that is, that the first payment device 12-1 with payment device ID "121" is set as the master unit.

[0069] If the first payment device 12-1, which is set as the master unit, is selected, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT9. The processor 31 controls the communication unit 35 to send payment information to the first payment device 12-1 as the destination as ACT9. Through this control, the payment information is sent to the network 14 with the first payment device 12-1 as the destination.

[0070] After transmitting the payment information, the processor 31 checks whether it has received a payment failure response command as ACT10. If it has not received a payment failure response command, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT10 to ACT11. The processor 31 checks whether it has received a payment acceptance response command as ACT11. If it has not received a payment acceptance response command, the processor 31 returns from ACT11 to ACT10. In this way, after transmitting the payment information, the processor 31 waits for payment failure or payment acceptance response commands as ACT10 and ACT11. A payment failure response command is returned when payment processing is impossible at the payment device 12 connected to the network 14. A payment acceptance response command is returned when payment processing is possible at the payment device 12.

[0071] If a payment failure response command is received while in the waiting state of ACT10 and ACT11, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT10 to ACT12. The processor 31 notifies that payment is impossible as ACT12. For example, the processor 31 notifies the store clerk by displaying a screen on the touch panel 38 indicating that payment is impossible. This screen has an operator to instruct the clerk to resend. The clerk touches the operator to instruct resend.

[0072] Upon notifying that payment is not possible, processor 31 proceeds to ACT13. Processor 31 waits for a retransmission instruction as ACT13. When processor 31 detects that retransmission has been instructed by a touch operation of the operator, it returns from ACT13 to ACT9. Processor 31 again performs control to send payment information to the first payment device 12-1 configured as the master unit. Then processor 31 waits for a response command indicating payment is not possible or possible.

[0073] If a payment-ready response command is received while in the waiting state of ACT10 and ACT11, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT11 to ACT14. As ACT14, the processor 31 notifies the payment device 12 to be the payment destination. For example, if the payment device 12 that sent the payment-ready response command is the first payment device 12-1, the processor 31 notifies the store clerk by displaying information on the touch panel 38 indicating that the payment destination is the first payment device 12-1. Upon receiving this notification, the store clerk instructs the customer 22 to make the payment at the first payment device 12-1. The notification of the payment destination may also be displayed on the customer display 39. Alternatively, it may be displayed on both the touch panel 38 and the customer display 39. After completing the processing of ACT14, the processor 31 terminates the first information processing.

[0074] Here, the processor 31 realizes its function as a creation means 311 through the processing of ACT7. The processor 31 realizes its function as a transmission means 312 through the processing of ACT8 and ACT9.

[0075] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the third information processing procedure executed by the processor 51 of the payment device 12 according to the payment program. The processor 51 is waiting for payment information as ACT21. When the communication unit 55 receives payment information transmitted from the input processing device 11 or from another payment device 12 with a higher transfer priority, the processor 51 proceeds from ACT21 to ACT22. As ACT22, the processor 51 checks whether the payment device 12 is able to perform payment processing. For example, if the payment processing for the previous customer has not been completed, the payment device 12 cannot perform payment processing for the next customer. Also, if there is a printer error such as a paper jam or running out of paper in the printer 59, or a change machine error such as a coin jam or running out of change in the change machine, the payment device 12 cannot perform payment processing.

[0076] If the payment device 12 is capable of performing payment processing, the processor 51 proceeds from ACT22 to ACT23. The processor 51 controls the communication unit 55 to send a payment availability notification command to the input processing unit 11 as ACT23. Through this control, the payment device 12 sends a payment availability notification command to the input processing unit 11 via the network 14.

[0077] The processor 51 executes the payment process as ACT24. Specifically, the processor 51 uses the touch panel 58 screen as a payment method selection screen. The payment method selection screen is a screen on which operators for selecting a payment method are arranged, such as a cash button, a credit button, and an electronic money button. The customer 22, who has moved to the location of the payment device 12 as instructed by the store clerk 21, touches the button corresponding to their desired payment method. That is, a customer 22 who wants to pay with cash touches the cash button, a customer 22 who wants to pay with a credit card touches the credit button, and a customer 22 who wants to pay with electronic money touches the electronic money button.

[0078] The processor 51, which controls the display of the payment method selection screen, waits for a payment method to be selected. Once a payment method is selected, the processor 51 executes the settlement process corresponding to that payment method. For example, if cash is selected as the payment method, the processor 51 subtracts the total amount from the amount inserted into the automatic change machine, calculates the change, and dispenses it from the automatic change machine. For example, if a credit card is selected as the payment method, the processor 51 authenticates the credit card read by the reader / writer 60, and, if approved, confirms the total amount as the credit payment amount. For example, if electronic money is selected as the payment method, the processor 51 subtracts the total amount from the balance of the electronic money medium read by the reader / writer 60.

[0079] Once the payment processing for each payment method is complete, the processor 51 controls the printer 59 as ACT25 and issues a transaction receipt. The transaction receipt prints payment information, including the transaction number, transaction date and time, terminal ID, product sales data, total number of items, and total amount. After completing the processing of ACT25, the processor 51 terminates the third information processing.

[0080] On the other hand, if the payment device 12 is unable to perform payment processing, the processor 51 proceeds from ACT22 to ACT26. As ACT26, the processor 51 refers to the data table 521 to obtain the transfer order R of the payment device 12.

[0081] The processor 51 adds "1" to its transfer rank R as ACT27. Then, the processor 51 refers to the data table 521 and selects another settlement device 12 whose transfer rank is set to "R+1". The processor 51 checks as ACT28 whether another settlement device 12 whose transfer rank is set to "R+1" is selectable. Hereafter, another settlement device 12 whose transfer rank is set to "R+1" will be referred to as settlement device 12(R+1), and another settlement device 12 whose transfer rank is set to "R+2" will be referred to as settlement device 12(R+2). If settlement device 12(R+1) is not selectable, the processor 51 skips the processing of ACT29 to ACT34 and proceeds to ACT35. The processor 51 controls the communication unit 55 to send a payment failure notification command to the input processing unit 11 as ACT35. As a result of this control, a payment possible notification command is sent from the settlement device 12 to the input processing unit 11 via the network 14.

[0082] If payment device 12(R+1) is selectable, the processor 51 proceeds from ACT28 to ACT29. As ACT29, the processor 51 checks the status S of payment device 12(R+1). If status S is "0", meaning payment device 12(R+1) is online, or if status S is "1", meaning payment device 12(R+1) is recovered, the processor 51 proceeds from ACT29 to ACT30. As ACT30, the processor 51 controls the communication unit 55 to transfer payment information to payment device 12(R+1). This control causes payment information to be transmitted from payment device 12 to payment device 12(R+1), which is one position lower in the transfer priority, via the network 14.

[0083] On the other hand, if the status S of payment device 12(R+1) is "2", the processor 51 returns from ACT29 to ACT27. The processor 51 executes the processing from ACT27 onward in the same manner as described above. Therefore, if it is not possible to select payment device 12(R+2) whose transfer priority is set to "R+2" by referring to the data table 521, the processor 51 controls the communication unit 55 to send a payment failure notification command to the input processing unit 11. Conversely, if it is possible to select payment device 12(R+2) whose transfer priority is set to "R+2", and the status S for that payment device 12(R+2) is "0" or "1", the processor 51 controls the communication unit 55 to transfer the payment information to payment device 12(R+2) which is two positions lower in the transfer priority as ACT30. That is, payment device 12 skips payment device 12(R+1) which is one position lower in the transfer priority, and transfers the payment information to payment device 12(R+2) which is two positions lower.

[0084] In this manner, if the payment device 12 is unable to perform payment processing, the processor 51 transfers the payment information to payment device 12(R+1) or payment device 12(R+2) which has a lower transfer priority than the payment device 12. Here, if the payment device 12(R+1) or payment device 12(R+2) to which the payment information was transferred is online or recovered, the transmission of the payment information usually does not result in an error. On the other hand, if it is offline, the transmission of the payment information will result in an error.

[0085] The processor 51 that sent the payment information checks whether a transmission error occurred as ACT31. If there is no transmission error, the processor 51 proceeds from ACT31 to ACT32. The processor 51 checks the status S for the payment device 12(R+1) or payment device 12(R+2) that sent the payment information as ACT32. If the status S is "0", the processor 51 terminates the third information processing.

[0086] In contrast, if status S is "1", processor 51 proceeds from ACT32 to ACT33. Processor 51 changes status S from "1" to "0" as ACT33. With this, processor 51 terminates the third information processing.

[0087] On the other hand, if the transmission of payment information fails, the processor 51 proceeds from ACT31 to ACT34. As ACT34, the processor 51 sets the status S for the payment device 12(R+1) or payment device 12(R+2), which is the destination of the payment information, to "2". Next, the processor 51 proceeds to ACT35 and controls the communication unit 55 to send a payment failure notification command to the input processing unit 11. As a result of this control, the payment failure notification command is sent from the payment device 12 to the input processing unit 11 via the network 14. Having controlled the transmission of the payment failure notification command, the processor 51 terminates the third information processing.

[0088] Here, processor 51 realizes the function of receiving means 511 through processing of ACT21. Processor 51 realizes the function of execution means 522 through processing of ACT24. Processor 51 realizes the function of selection means 523 through processing of ACT26 to ACT29. Processor 51 realizes the function of transfer means 524 through processing of ACT30. Processor 51 realizes the function of modification means 525 through processing of ACT34. Processor 51 realizes the function of notification means 526 through processing of ACT35.

[0089] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the fourth information processing procedure executed by the processor 51 of the payment device 12 according to the payment program. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the second information processing procedure executed by the processor 31 of the input processing device 11 according to the registration program. Since the fourth and second information processing procedures are linked, the two procedures will be explained in parallel here.

[0090] The processor 51 of the payment device 12, which is running the payment program, performs a fourth information processing step at a predetermined interval. First, the processor 51 controls the communication unit 55 to send a confirmation start command as ACT41 in Figure 8 to the input processing unit 11. Through this control, the confirmation start command is sent from the payment device 12 to the input processing unit 11 via the network 14.

[0091] Meanwhile, the processor 31 of the input processing unit 11, where the registration program is running, is waiting for a confirmation start command as ACT61 in Figure 9. When it receives a confirmation start command from any of the payment devices 12, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT61 to ACT62. As ACT62, the processor 31 obtains the payment device ID of the payment device 12 that sent the confirmation start command. As ACT63, the processor 31 increments the connection count N, which is stored in the data table 321 in association with the payment device ID, by "1". Then, as ACT64, the processor 31 controls the payment device 12 that sent the confirmation start command to send a confirmation response command. This control causes the confirmation response command to be sent to the network 14, with the payment device 12 that sent the confirmation start command as the destination. The confirmation response command includes the data from the data table 321, i.e., the connection counts Na, Nb, and Nc for each payment device ID. After controlling the transmission of the confirmation response command, the processor 31 terminates the second information processing.

[0092] Returning to the explanation of Figure 8. The processor 51 of the payment device 12, which controls the transmission of the confirmation start command, is waiting for a confirmation response command as ACT42. Upon receiving a confirmation response command from the input processing device 11, the processor 51 proceeds from ACT42 to ACT43. As ACT43, the processor 51 obtains data from the data table 321 held by the input processing device 11 from the confirmation response command.

[0093] Processor 51 searches the data table 521 of the payment device 12 as ACT44. Then, as ACT45, Processor 51 checks if there is a payment device ID with status S "2" indicating an offline state. If there is no payment device ID with status S "2" indicating an offline state, Processor 51 skips the processing of ACT45 to ACT49 and proceeds to ACT50. As ACT50, Processor 51 stores the data of data table 321 obtained from the acknowledgment command. The data table 321 may be stored in main memory 52 or in auxiliary storage device 53. After storing the data table 321, Processor 51 terminates this fourth information processing.

[0094] On the other hand, if there is a payment device ID with status S indicating an offline state ("2"), the processor 51 proceeds from ACT45 to ACT46. As ACT46, the processor 51 searches the data table 321 stored in the previous fourth information processing and detects the number of connections Nx (Nx=Na, Nb, or Nc) associated with the payment device ID. The processor 51 also searches the data table 321 obtained from the acknowledgment command as ACT47 and detects the number of connections Ny (Ny=Na, Nb, or Nc) associated with the payment device ID. Then, as ACT48, the processor 51 determines whether the number of connections Ny has increased compared to the number of connections Nx.

[0095] If the number of connections Ny has not increased beyond the number of connections Nx, the processor 51 skips the processing of ACT49 and proceeds to ACT50. The processor 51 stores the data in the data table 321 obtained from the acknowledgment command as ACT50 and terminates this fourth information processing step.

[0096] In contrast, if the number of connections Ny is greater than the number of connections Nx, the processor 51 proceeds from ACT48 to ACT49. The processor 51 changes the status S stored in the data table 521, which is associated with the payment device ID whose number of connections has increased, from "2" to "1". After that, the processor 51 proceeds to ACT50. As ACT50, the processor 51 stores the data in the data table 321 obtained from the acknowledgment command and terminates this fourth information processing step.

[0097] As explained using Figure 9, the number of connections N (Na, Nb, Nc) increases each time a confirmation start command is received from the corresponding payment device 12. In other words, the number of connections N for online payment devices 12 increases, but the number of connections N for offline payment devices 12 does not increase. The processor 51 of payment device 12 periodically monitors the number of connections N of other payment devices 12 whose status S is "2", i.e., offline, through the fourth information processing. When the number of connections N increases, it means that the other payment device 12 that was offline has recovered, so the status S is changed to "1". Here, the processor 51 realizes the function of a recovery means 517 through the processing of ACT41 to ACT50. In addition, the processor 31 of the input processing device 11 realizes the function of a confirmation means 313 through the processing of ACT61 to ACT64 in Figure 9.

[0098] [Transaction processing system operation] Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the transaction processing system 100 when the first settlement device 12-1, which is set as the master unit, is in a state where settlement processing is possible. It is assumed that the data tables 521 of each settlement device 12 (12-1, 12-2, 12-3) store the values ​​shown in Figure 10. That is, the transfer priority of the first settlement device 12-1 is 1st, the transfer priority of the second settlement device 12-2 is 2nd, and the transfer priority of the third settlement device 12-3 is 3rd. In addition, the first settlement device 12-1, the second settlement device 12-2, and the third settlement device 12-3 are online.

[0099] In this state, when payment information is transmitted from the input processing device 11 to the first payment device 12-1, the first payment device 12-1 sends a payment availability notification command to the input processing device 11. Then, the first payment device 12-1 executes the payment process.

[0100] Figure 11 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the transaction processing system 100 when, for example, the payment processing for the previous customer has not yet been completed and payment processing is not possible at the first payment device 12-1. Note that the data tables 521 of each payment device 12 (12-1, 12-2, 12-3) have the same values ​​as shown in Figure 10.

[0101] In this state, when payment information is transmitted from the input processing unit 11 to the first payment device 12-1, the payment information is transmitted from the first payment device 12-1 to the second payment device 12-2, which has the second priority in the transfer order. If the second payment device 12-2 is in a state where it can perform payment processing, it sends a payment ready notification command to the input processing unit 11. Then, the payment processing is executed in the second payment device 12-2.

[0102] In response, if the second payment device 12-2 is also unable to process the payment, the payment information is transferred from the second payment device 12-2 to the third payment device 12-3, which has the third priority in the transfer order. If the third payment device 12-3 is in a state where it can process the payment, it sends a payment availability notification command to the input processing device 11. The third payment device 12-3 then performs the payment processing.

[0103] If the third payment device 12-3 is also unable to process the payment, a payment failure notification command is sent from the third payment device 12-3 to the input processing device 11. As a result, the input processing device 11 is notified that the payment is impossible, and the store clerk instructs the transaction to be resent. At that point, if, for example, the first payment device 12-1 is in a state where it can process the payment, a payment availability notification command is sent from the first payment device 12-1 to the input processing device 11. The payment process is then executed in the first payment device 12-1.

[0104] Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the transaction processing system 100 when payment information is transferred from the first payment device 12-1 to the second payment device 12-2, but the payment information cannot be received because the second payment device 12-2 is offline. If a transmission error occurs when payment information is transferred to the second payment device 12-2, the status S for the second payment device 12-2 in the first payment device 12-1 is changed from "0" to "2". Also, a payment failure notification command is sent from the first payment device 12-1 to the input processing device 11. As a result, the input processing device 11 is notified that the payment is impossible, and the store clerk instructs retransmission.

[0105] Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the transaction processing system 100 when settlement information is retransmitted from the input processing device 11. In the first settlement device 12-1, which has received the settlement information, the status S for the second settlement device 12-2, which has the second-highest transfer priority, is "2", so the first settlement device 12-1 does not transmit the settlement information to the second settlement device 12-2. The first settlement device 12-1 skips the second settlement device 12-2 and transmits the settlement information to the third settlement device 12-3, which has the third-highest transfer priority. If the third settlement device 12-3 is in a state where settlement processing is possible, a settlement ready notification command is sent from the third settlement device 12-3 to the input processing device 11. Then the settlement processing is executed in the third settlement device 12-3.

[0106] Thus, in the transaction processing system 100, even if settlement device 12-2, which is one position lower in the transfer priority order from settlement device 12-1, is offline, settlement device 12-1 can still transfer settlement information to settlement device 12-3, which is even lower in the transfer priority order. Therefore, the problem of reduced processing efficiency due to the inability to process transaction settlements not only at the offline settlement device 12-2 but also at the settlement device 12-3, which is lower in the transfer priority order, is resolved. As a result, the processing efficiency of settlement processing can be improved.

[0107] [Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment, in ACT35 of the third information processing performed by the payment device 12, the command that the processor 51 sends to the input processing device 11 is a payment failure notification command. In the second embodiment, as shown in Figure 14, this command is an error notification command. The error notification command is a command to notify the input processing device 11 that a communication error has occurred in another payment device 12 that has a lower transfer priority than the payment device 12 in question. The error notification command includes the payment device ID of the payment device 12 that has gone offline due to the communication error.

[0108] The processor 51, which sent the error notification command, returns from ACT35 to ACT27. That is, the processor 51 adds "1" to the transfer order "R+1" that it selected in the previous ACT27 process. Then the processor 51 refers to the data table 521 and selects another settlement device 12(R+2) whose transfer order is set to "R+2". The processor 51 checks if settlement device 12(R+2) is selectable. If settlement device 12(R+2) is not selectable, the processor 51 controls the communication unit 55 to send a settlement failure notification command to the input processing unit 11.

[0109] In response, if payment device 12(R+2) is selectable, the processor 51 checks the status S of payment device 12(R+2). If status S is "0", meaning payment device 12(R+2) is online, or if status S is "1", meaning payment device 12(R+2) is recovered, the processor 51 controls the communication unit 55 to transfer payment information to payment device 12(R+2). This control causes payment information to be transmitted from payment device 12 to payment device 12(R+2), which is two positions lower in the transfer priority, via the network 14.

[0110] On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the input processing device 11 differs from the first embodiment in some of the processing from ACT9 onwards of the first information processing executed by the processor 31. That is, in the first embodiment, as explained with reference to Figure 7, the processor 31 waited for a response command indicating payment is impossible or possible as ACT10 and ACT11. In the second embodiment, as shown in Figure 15, while waiting for a response command indicating payment is impossible or possible, the processor 31 further checks whether an error notification command has been received as ACT71. If an error notification command is received, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT71 to ACT72. As ACT72, the processor 31 notifies that the payment device 12 identified by the payment device ID included in the error notification command is offline. The processor 31 then waits for a response command indicating payment is impossible or possible.

[0111] In this second embodiment with the same configuration, a payment device 12 that is unable to perform payment processing can skip the payment device 12(R+1) one position below it in the transfer order if that payment device 12(R+1) is offline, and transfer the payment information to the payment device 12(R+2) two positions below it. Furthermore, even if the store clerk, who is the operator of the input processing device 11, does not instruct a retransmission, the payment device 12 will transfer the payment information to the payment device 12(R+2) two positions below it in the transfer order. Therefore, processing efficiency can be increased compared to the first embodiment, which waits for a retransmission instruction. In addition, the store clerk can easily identify the payment device 12 that has gone offline based on the information notified by the input processing device 11, which has the advantage of enabling quick recovery work on that payment device 12.

[0112] [Other embodiments] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which each payment device 12 stores the data table 521 in the main memory 52. ​​In another embodiment, the server 13 may store the data table 521, and each payment device 12 may share this data table 521.

[0113] In the above embodiment, a transaction processing system 100 was illustrated in which three settlement devices 12 (12-1, 12-2, 12-3) are connected to one input processing device 11. The number of settlement devices 12 is not limited to three. The number of settlement devices 12 may be four or more.

[0114] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which one input processing unit 11 and three payment devices 12 (12-1, 12-2, 12-3) constitute one group. However, it is not necessary to form a group. For example, multiple input processing units and multiple payment devices can be placed in separate locations. The transfer order of payment information can be set in advance for the multiple payment devices. Also, one of the multiple payment devices can be designated as a master unit and the rest as slave units. The multiple input processing units transmit payment information to the payment devices via the master unit. When a payment device is in a state where it can perform payment processing, it performs payment processing based on the payment information. When a payment device is in a state where it cannot perform payment processing, it transfers the payment information to another payment device with a lower transfer order. In this case, if the other payment device is offline, the payment information is transferred to yet another payment device with a lower transfer order. Even if such a configuration is adopted, the same efficiency improvement effect as in the above embodiment can be achieved.

[0115] 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] A transaction processing system comprising an input processing device and a plurality of payment devices connected by a network, wherein the input processing device comprises a creation means for creating settlement information relating to a transaction based on input data, and a transmission means for transmitting the settlement information via the network to a predetermined payment device among the plurality of payment devices, and the payment device comprises a receiving means for receiving the settlement information via the network, an execution means for executing a settlement process based on the settlement information received by the receiving means when the payment device is in a state where it can execute a settlement process, a selection means for searching for information indicating the connection status of the plurality of payment devices to the network and selecting one of the other payment devices that is connected to the network when the payment device is in a state where it cannot execute a settlement process, and a transfer means for transferring the settlement information to the other payment device selected by the selection means. [2] The transaction processing system as described in Appendix [1], further comprising: a change means for changing information indicating the connection status to another payment device that failed to transfer the payment information by the transfer means from information indicating a connected state to the network to information indicating a disconnected state if the transfer of the payment information by the transfer means fails. [3] The transaction processing system described in Appendix [2] further comprises a notification means for notifying the input processing device if the transfer of the settlement information by the transfer means fails. [4] The transaction processing system according to any one of the appendices [1] to [3], wherein the plurality of payment devices have a set transfer order for the payment information, and the selection means selects another payment device among the other connected payment devices that has the highest transfer order lower than the payment device in question. [5] A settlement device for a transaction processing system comprising an input processing device and a plurality of settlement devices connected by a network, wherein the input processing device comprises a creation means for creating settlement information relating to a transaction based on input data, and a transmission means for transmitting the settlement information to a predetermined settlement device among the plurality of settlement devices via the network, the settlement device comprising: a receiving means for receiving the settlement information via the network; an execution means for executing a settlement process based on the settlement information received by the receiving means when the settlement device is in a state where it can execute a settlement process; a selection means for searching for information indicating the connection status of the plurality of settlement devices to the network and selecting one of the other settlement devices that is connected to the network when the settlement device is in a state where it cannot execute a settlement process; and a transfer means for transferring the settlement information to the other settlement device selected by the selection means. [6] A settlement program for causing a computer in a settlement device of a transaction processing system, comprising an input processing device and a plurality of settlement devices connected by a network, wherein the input processing device comprises a creation means for creating settlement information related to a transaction based on input data and a transmission means for transmitting the settlement information to a predetermined settlement device among the plurality of settlement devices via the network, to function as a receiving means for receiving the settlement information via the network, an execution means for executing a settlement process based on the settlement information received by the receiving means when the settlement device is in a state where it can execute a settlement process, a selection means for searching for information indicating the connection status of the plurality of settlement devices to the network and selecting one of the other settlement devices that are connected to the network when the settlement device is in a state where it cannot execute a settlement process, and a transfer means for transferring the settlement information to the other settlement device selected by the selection means. [Explanation of symbols]

[0116] 11...Input processing device, 12 (12-1, 12-2, 12-3)...Payment device, 13...Server, 14...Network, 15...Product master file, 21...Shop assistant, 22...Customer, 31, 51...Processor, 32, 52...Main memory, 33, 53...Auxiliary storage device, 311...Creation means, 312...Transmission means, 313...Confirmation means, 321, 521...Data table, 511...Reception means, 512...Execution means, 513...Selection means, 514...Transfer means, 515...Modification means, 516...Notification means, 517...Recovery means.

Claims

1. The input processing device and multiple payment devices are connected via a network. The input processing device is A means for creating settlement information related to a transaction based on the entered data, A transmission means for transmitting the payment information via the network to a predetermined payment device among the plurality of payment devices, It is equipped with, The aforementioned payment device is Receiving means for receiving the payment information via the aforementioned network, When the payment device is in a state where it can perform payment processing, the execution means performs payment processing based on the payment information received by the receiving means, When the payment device is unable to perform payment processing, a selection means searches for information indicating the connection status of the multiple payment devices to the network and selects one of the other payment devices that is connected to the network. A transfer means for transferring the payment information to another payment device selected by the selection means, If the transfer of the payment information by the transfer means fails, the transfer means changes the information indicating the connection status to the other payment device that failed to transfer the information from information indicating a connected state to information indicating a disconnected state. A transaction processing system equipped with the following features.

2. The aforementioned payment device is If the transfer of the payment information by the transfer means fails, a notification means notifies the input processing device. The transaction processing system according to claim 1, further comprising:

3. The aforementioned multiple payment devices have a set transfer order for the payment information. The transaction processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the selection means selects another payment device among other connected payment devices that has the highest transfer priority lower than the payment device in question.

4. A settlement device for a transaction processing system comprising an input processing device and multiple settlement devices connected by a network, wherein the input processing device includes a creation means for creating settlement information related to a transaction based on input data, and a transmission means for transmitting the settlement information to a predetermined settlement device among the multiple settlement devices via the network, Receiving means for receiving the payment information via the aforementioned network, When the payment device is in a state where it can perform payment processing, the execution means performs payment processing based on the payment information received by the receiving means, When the payment device is unable to perform payment processing, a selection means searches for information indicating the connection status of the multiple payment devices to the network and selects one of the other payment devices that is connected to the network. A transfer means for transferring the payment information to another payment device selected by the selection means, If the transfer of the payment information by the transfer means fails, the transfer means changes the information indicating the connection status to the other payment device that failed to transfer the information from information indicating a connected state to information indicating a disconnected state. A payment device equipped with the following features.

5. The system comprises an input processing device and multiple payment devices connected by a network, the input processing device having a creation means for creating payment information related to a transaction based on input data, and a transmission means for transmitting the payment information to a predetermined payment device among the multiple payment devices via the network, and the computer in the payment device of the transaction processing system Receiving means for receiving the payment information via the network, When the payment device is in a state where it can perform payment processing, the execution means performs payment processing based on the payment information received by the receiving means. When the payment device is unable to perform payment processing, a selection means searches for information indicating the connection status of the multiple payment devices to the network and selects one of the other payment devices that is connected to the network. A transfer means for transferring the payment information to another payment device selected by the selection means, and If the transfer of the payment information by the transfer means fails, a modification means changes the information indicating the connection status to the other payment device that failed to transfer the information from information indicating a connected state to information indicating a disconnected state. A payment program designed to function as such.

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