System and program

Abstract

To provide suitable assistance to foreign customers when the foreign customers conduct transactions.SOLUTION: A transaction information output device includes communication means, acquisition means, and output control means. The communication means communicates with a terminal device that displays a screen in a language indicated by one piece of set language information and accepts customer operations. The acquisition means acquires the one piece of language information by the communication means. The output control means is capable of outputting information on the transaction in the language according to the one piece of language information acquired by the acquisition means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 19

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system , and and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, a so-called self-checkout system in which customers register products and perform settlement has become widespread. For example, a self-checkout system that performs product registration and settlement using a registration terminal such as a mobile terminal owned by a customer is known.

[0003] In the self-checkout system, a plurality of devices such as a mobile terminal, a weighing device, and a settlement device are used. Information related to a transaction is displayed on the mobile terminal. The information related to the transaction includes a weighing result of a product weighed by the weighing device, registration information indicating the registered product, and the like. Further, the information related to the transaction is also displayed on other devices installed in the store, such as the weighing device and the settlement device, in addition to the mobile terminal.

[0004] Here, the mobile terminal can display various information in the language set by the customer. On the other hand, devices other than the mobile terminal display various information in the language used by many customers who visit the store (the language of their own country). Therefore, in the case of customers who are not proficient in the language used in the store, such as foreigners, they may not be able to easily understand the content displayed on devices other than the mobile terminal.

[0005] As a related technique, in a POS system in which a store clerk registers a product and a customer performs settlement, a POS system is known in which information related to a product is displayed on a settlement register in the language selected in a registration register (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006]

Patent Document 1

[0007] However, with conventional technology, it can be difficult for foreign customers or others who do not understand the language spoken in stores where self-checkout systems are installed to verbally communicate with store staff in a language they understand, or even to switch to a language they understand themselves. As a result, there has been a problem in that foreign customers or others who speak a language different from the language used in the store may not be able to conduct transactions effectively using self-checkout systems.

[0008] This invention has been made in view of these circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a technology that can help foreign customers and others to conduct transactions favorably. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] To solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention is a transaction information output system including a ticket vending machine and a transaction information output device that communicates with the ticket vending machine, wherein the ticket vending machine comprises a reception means for receiving a language from a customer and a ticketing reception means for displaying a screen corresponding to the language received by the reception means and receiving an operation related to ticketing from the customer, and the transaction information output device comprises a communication means for communicating with the ticket vending machine, an acquisition means for acquiring language information indicating the language through the communication of the communication means, and an output control means capable of outputting delivery information for handing over the ticketed goods to the customer in the language corresponding to the language information acquired by the acquisition means. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is an explanatory diagram showing the network configuration of the shopping system 1 according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2]This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of POS terminal 20. [Figure 3] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the appearance of the weighing device 30. [Figure 4A] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the weighing device 30. [Figure 4B] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a language-related table stored in memory 304. [Figure 4C] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a language support table stored in memory 304. [Figure 5] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a mobile terminal 50. [Figure 6] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of various information for each of the 50 mobile devices managed by the cloud server Sv. [Figure 7] This is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow related to product registration and payment in Shopping System 1. [Figure 8] This is a sequence diagram showing the process of registering items to be weighed. [Figure 9A] This flowchart shows an example of the registration process for items to be weighed performed by the mobile terminal 50. [Figure 9B] This flowchart shows an example of the connection process performed by the mobile terminal 50 with the weighing device 30. [Figure 9C] This is a flowchart showing an example of the transaction information output processing performed by the weighing device 30. [Figure 10] This flowchart shows an example of the transaction information output process performed by the POS terminal 20. [Figure 11] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the procedure for registering products to be weighed. [Figure 12] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a standby screen displayed on the weighing device 30. [Figure 13] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the screen displayed on the mobile device 50 during pairing. [Figure 14] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed during weighing on the weighing device 30 and the portable terminal 50. [Figure 15]It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a label issued by the measuring device 30. [Figure 16] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the procedure when registering a measured product in a foreign language. [Figure 17] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a standby screen with a foreign language display on the measuring device 30. [Figure 18] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen with a foreign language display during pairing on the mobile terminal 50. [Figure 19] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen with a foreign language display during measurement on the measuring device 30 and the mobile terminal 50. [Figure 20] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a label issued by the measuring device 30 in a foreign language. [Figure 21] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display 509 of the mobile terminal 50. [Figure 22] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the transition of a screen displayed on the customer-side display unit 205 of the POS terminal 20 at the time of settlement. [Figure 23] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed in Chinese on the display 509 of the mobile terminal 50. [Figure 24] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the transition of a screen displayed in a foreign language on the customer-side display unit 205 of the POS terminal 20 at the time of settlement. [Figure 25] It is an explanatory diagram showing the network configuration of the shopping system 2500 according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 26] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the appearance of the ticket vending machine 2510. [Figure 27] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the ticket vending machine 2510. [Figure 28] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the call display 2520. [Figure 29] It is a flowchart showing an example of the process performed by the ticket vending machine 2510. [Figure 30] It is a flowchart showing an example of the transaction information output process performed by the call display 2520. [Figure 31]This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a menu screen displayed in Japanese on the ticket vending machine 2510. [Figure 32] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a meal ticket issued in Japanese. [Figure 33] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a call screen displayed in Japanese on the call display 2520. [Figure 34] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a menu screen displayed in Chinese on ticket vending machine 2510. [Figure 35] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a meal ticket issued in Chinese. [Figure 36] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a call screen displayed in Chinese on the call display 2520. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] The following describes two embodiments of the transaction information output device, transaction information output method, transaction information output system, and program of the present invention.

[0012] (Embodiment 1) (Network configuration of Shopping System 1) Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the network configuration of the shopping system 1 according to Embodiment 1. The shopping system 1 is an example of a transaction information output system. The shopping system 1 can be introduced into various stores such as supermarkets, home centers, convenience stores, and general merchandise stores. In this specification, "customer," "client," and "user" are synonymous unless otherwise specified.

[0013] In Figure 1, the shopping system 1 includes a cloud server Sv, a store controller (management device, store computer) 10, a monitoring terminal 11, a POS (Point of Sales) terminal 20, a weighing device 30, and a mobile terminal 50. The POS terminal 20 and the weighing device 30 are examples of transaction information output devices, respectively. The mobile terminal 50 is an example of a terminal device.

[0014] Each device and each terminal is connected to each other via a network for communication. For example, the store controller 10, the monitoring terminal 11, the POS terminal 20, and the weighing device 30 are all connected to each other via a LAN (Local Area Network) 55 for communication. Each device and each terminal is a computer device equipped with a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), a communication unit, etc.

[0015] The cloud server Sv is a server device that manages various types of information, such as customer information, store information, and product information for each store. For example, based on product information read by the mobile terminal 50, the cloud server Sv generates cart information representing a virtual cart for each customer and registers products in the virtual cart. The information managed (generated and stored) by the cloud server Sv will be described later using Figure 6.

[0016] The store controller 10 manages the POS terminals 20 and weighing devices 30, and stores various information necessary for transactions, such as the product master. The product master is a file that stores product information such as product identification information (e.g., JAN (Japanese Article Number) code), product name, and sales price for each product. The product master also includes product identification information, product name, and unit price of products that require weighing (hereinafter referred to as "weighing target products"). In addition to the product master, the store controller 10 also stores various other information such as inventory status, sales history, and deposit and withdrawal records. The store controller 10 may also store customer membership information.

[0017] The monitoring terminal 11 monitors the POS terminal 20 and the weighing device 30. Specifically, the monitoring terminal 11 displays the status of the POS terminal 20 (operating mode, processing status, etc.) and controls the POS terminal 20. In addition, the monitoring terminal 11 displays the processing status of the weighing device 30 and controls the weighing device 30.

[0018] The POS terminal 20 is a computer device capable of performing a settlement process to process payment for goods registered by the mobile terminal 50. In this embodiment, the POS terminal 20 can also perform a registration process to register the goods to be purchased (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "product registration"). In addition to settling payments for goods registered by the mobile terminal 50, the POS terminal 20 can also settle payments for goods registered by its own terminal or other POS terminals 20. In Figure 1, multiple POS terminals 20 and weighing devices 30 are shown as examples, but there may be only one of each.

[0019] The weighing device 30 is a computer device that weighs the product to be weighed. The weighing device 30 calculates the price of the product to be weighed using the weighed weight (or number of items) and the unit price of the product to be weighed. The product to be weighed is a product different from ordinary products. Here, ordinary products are, for example, products that have a JAN code attached. When the mobile terminal 50 reads the JAN code, it queries the cloud server Sv with the read JAN code and obtains the price data associated with the JAN code.

[0020] On the other hand, weighed goods are items whose price varies depending on their weight or quantity. Weighed goods include, for example, fresh foods such as vegetables, fruits, fresh fish, and fresh meat, as well as prepared foods. The weighing device 30 prints and outputs a label that codes the price, weight, etc., of the weighed goods. This label includes the price. In other words, the label (barcode) attached to the weighed goods uses a non-PLU (Price Look Up) method. Note that although Figure 1 shows multiple weighing devices 30 as an example, it may also be just one.

[0021] The mobile terminal 50 is a portable computer device such as a smartphone, tablet, or mobile phone. The mobile terminal 50 is equipped with a communication unit, an imaging unit (camera), a touch panel, etc., and is operated by the customer. In this embodiment, the mobile terminal 50 is detachably attached to the shopping cart. However, the mobile terminal 50 may be permanently installed on the shopping cart. In other words, the mobile terminal 50 may be a rental item provided by the store to the customer.

[0022] The mobile terminal 50 scans (reads) the barcode (product code) attached to the product and accepts product registration. In other words, the mobile terminal 50 is equipped with a recognition function that recognizes the barcode attached to the product.

[0023] Furthermore, the recognition function of the mobile terminal 50 only needs to be able to read the product code attached to the product, and it does not need to be able to identify the product from the read product code. In other words, the mobile terminal 50 only needs to be able to read the product code from the barcode if the barcode exists as an object in the captured image (the image acquired as a pass-through image) captured by the imaging function.

[0024] Furthermore, the mobile terminal 50 may be equipped with image recognition technology. Specifically, the mobile terminal 50 may be equipped with image recognition technology that extracts feature points from an image (through image, captured image) and recognizes the imaged object. For example, the mobile terminal 50 may use image recognition technology to identify (estimate) the imaged product. By using such image recognition technology, the mobile terminal 50 can also identify, for example, fresh produce such as vegetables and fruits that do not have barcodes.

[0025] Furthermore, the mobile terminal 50 has application software (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "this app") installed for registering and settling payments for products related to the shopping system 1. By launching this app, the mobile terminal 50 reads the barcode attached to the product and sends the read information to the cloud server Sv. As a result, the product corresponding to the barcode is registered in the virtual cart of the cloud server Sv.

[0026] Furthermore, when payment is made, the mobile terminal 50 displays a two-dimensional code (for example, a QR code (registered trademark)) corresponding to the registered product. When the POS terminal 20 reads this two-dimensional code, it requests the cloud server Sv to send the registration information of the registered product. The POS terminal 20 then receives the information from the cloud server Sv and becomes able to perform the payment. In the following, this two-dimensional code may be referred to as the "payment code," and the registered product may be referred to as the "registered product."

[0027] In this embodiment, the payment processing device is a POS terminal 20, but it is not limited to this. For example, the payment processing device may be a dedicated payment device installed in the store, or it may be a payment computer device permanently attached to a shopping cart. This computer device may, for example, only allow card payments using credit cards or prepaid cards.

[0028] (Example configuration of POS terminal 20) Next, we will describe an example configuration of the POS terminal 20. Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a POS terminal 20. As shown in Figure 2, the POS terminal 20 includes a CPU 201, ROM 202, RAM 203, hard disk 204, customer-side display unit 205, customer-side scanner unit 206, card payment unit 208, change dispenser 209, employee-side display unit 210, key operation unit 211, employee-side scanner unit 212, printing unit 213, audio output unit 214, and communication unit 215. These are connected to each other via a bus 220 so that they can communicate with one another.

[0029] The CPU 201 is a central processing unit that controls the operation of the POS terminal 20 by reading and executing various programs stored in the ROM 202. These various programs include the information output program according to this embodiment. ROM202 is read-only memory that stores various types of information used by the CPU201, including programs.

[0030] RAM203 is a read-and-write memory that stores various types of information. For example, RAM203 stores information obtained from external sources (e.g., cloud server Sv or store controller 10) and information generated during processing. This information includes, for example, registration information (registration data) generated during the product registration process and settlement information generated during the settlement process for settled products.

[0031] The hard disk 204 stores various types of information. For example, the hard disk 204 stores tables equivalent to the language-related table 420 (see Figure 4B) and the corresponding language table 430 (see Figure 4C) stored by the weighing device 30. The hard disk 204 may store programs executed by the CPU 201 instead of the ROM 202, for example. Alternatively, it may store information acquired from external sources or information generated during processing instead of the RAM 203.

[0032] The customer-side display unit 205 is a touch display for customers. The customer-side display unit 205 displays various information to the customer and accepts various inputs from the customer.

[0033] The customer-side scanner unit 206 is a scanner unit for the customer and optically reads various types of information. For example, when payment is made, the customer-side scanner unit 206 optically reads the payment code displayed on the mobile terminal 50. In this embodiment, the customer-side scanner unit 206 can also optically read barcodes (product codes, etc.) attached to products and codes (barcodes, 2D codes, etc.) printed on payment slips (registered trademarks). In addition to the above, the customer-side scanner unit 206 may also read codes (barcodes, 2D codes, etc.) printed on gift certificates (gift certificates, coupons, discount vouchers) and various cards (e.g., membership cards, point cards, etc.). Note that product registration is not limited to registration by reading codes with the customer-side scanner unit 206. For example, it is also possible to display a preset key (a button to order a product) corresponding to a product on the customer-side display unit 205, and register a product when the customer operates (presses) the preset key.

[0034] The card payment unit 208 is a payment mechanism for various types of cards. These types of cards include credit cards, prepaid cards (electronic money), and point cards. Prepaid cards have an amount (remaining balance) stored (charged) on them. The card payment unit 208 includes a card recognition unit (reading unit), a display unit, and an operation unit. The card recognition unit reads information from various types of cards magnetically or electrically. The read information is used for settling the registered products. The card recognition unit can also recognize information to be used in the settlement of the registered products, for example, when using points held on a point card. Furthermore, the card recognition unit can also recognize information not used in the settlement of the registered products, for example, when awarding points to a point card.

[0035] The card payment unit 208 in this embodiment includes a card recognition unit, a display unit, and an operation unit, but is not limited to these; it only needs to include at least a card recognition unit. Furthermore, the card recognition unit in this embodiment is compatible with contact-type cards (IC cards, magnetic cards), but is not limited to these. For example, the card recognition unit may be compatible with contactless cards (IC cards) in addition to or instead of being compatible with contact-type cards.

[0036] The change dispenser 209 (cash settlement unit) is a cash settlement mechanism and has an input slot for banknotes and coins, and an output slot for banknotes and coins. The change dispenser 209 calculates the amount to be inserted into the input slot, calculates the change amount which is the difference between the inserted amount and the purchase amount, and dispenses the change from the output slot. The change dispenser 209 is facing the customer and accepts various operations and cash insertions from the customer. The change dispenser 209 also has a sensor that detects banknotes and coins inserted into the input slot. This sensor detects that banknotes and coins have been inserted into the input slot, and also detects the number of items of each denomination.

[0037] The employee-side display unit 210 is a touch display for employees. The employee-side display unit 210 displays various information to employees and accepts various inputs from them.

[0038] The key operation unit 211 is equipped with various keys (hardware keys, buttons). The key operation unit 211 receives various inputs from store staff. The key operation unit 211 includes numeric keys for entering numbers, keys corresponding to the products to be registered, keys for switching modes, etc.

[0039] The employee-side scanner unit 212 is a scanner unit for employees and optically reads various types of information. For example, the employee-side scanner unit 212 optically reads barcodes attached to products and employee codes attached to employee name tags. In addition to the above, the employee-side scanner unit 212 may also read codes printed on payment slips, gift certificates, and various cards.

[0040] Furthermore, product registration is not limited to registration by reading a code using the employee-side scanner unit 212. For example, a key corresponding to a product (e.g., a key corresponding to a sports newspaper) may be placed on the key operation unit 211, and product registration may be performed when the employee operates (presses) that key. Alternatively, the POS terminal 20 can display a preset key corresponding to a product on the employee-side display unit 210, and product registration may be performed when the employee operates that preset key.

[0041] The printing unit 213 prints and outputs various media (receipts, invoices, payment slips, etc.). The printing unit 213 can change the direction of the media output slot. Specifically, the printing unit 213 has a rotatable mechanism and is configured so that the media output slot faces from the employee side to the customer side, or from the customer side to the employee side. The direction of the media output slot may be changed manually, or it may be changed automatically in accordance with the switching of the operating mode. The printing unit 213 may also be equipped with a sensor to detect whether the direction of the print output slot is correct or incorrect.

[0042] The audio output unit 214 outputs sound. For example, the audio output unit 214 outputs voice guidance or warning sounds. The voice guidance and warning sounds are, for example, related to product registration or payment.

[0043] The communication unit 215 is an interface for sending and receiving information with other devices (cloud server Sv, store controller 10, monitoring terminal 11, other POS terminals 20, weighing device 30, mobile terminal 50).

[0044] (Overview of each operating mode) Next, we will explain the operating modes of the POS terminal 20. The POS terminal 20 operates in one of several operating modes. These operating modes are the operating modes used during normal business operations (operating modes related to registration and settlement processes). Specifically, the operating modes are the normal mode, the accounting-only mode, and the full self-service mode. Below, we will briefly explain each of the normal mode, accounting-only mode, and full self-service mode.

[0045] (Normal mode) The normal mode is an operating mode in which the store clerk's product registration is enabled and the customer's product registration is disabled. In other words, the normal mode is an operating mode in which the store clerk's registration process is executed without executing the customer's registration process. During the store clerk's product registration, the store clerk's scanner unit 212, the store clerk's display unit 210, and the key operation unit 211 are used to register the product. In addition, in the normal mode, payment can be made by inserting money (banknotes and coins) or reading various cards. Furthermore, in the normal mode, it is possible to start the payment process (for example, by inserting money) even while the product registration process is in progress.

[0046] In addition, in normal mode, it is possible to send registration information to other POS terminals 20. Sending registration information to other POS terminals 20 means sending the registration information generated during the registration process to other POS terminals 20 capable of performing settlement processing (POS terminals 20 in settlement-only mode). Also, in normal mode, it is possible to issue settlement tickets. Issuing settlement tickets means encoding the registration information generated during the registration process and printing it on a printable medium (settlement ticket). When the settlement ticket is read by another POS terminal 20, settlement processing can be performed at that other POS terminal 20.

[0047] (Payment-only mode) The checkout-only mode is an operating mode in which product registration by both the store clerk and the customer is disabled. Specifically, the checkout-only mode is an operating mode in which the system receives registration information from the cloud server Sv and performs settlement. In addition, the checkout-only mode is an operating mode in which the system enables the reception of registration information from other POS terminals 20 (POS terminals 20 in normal mode), the reading of payment slips, and the insertion of money, and performs settlement. Note that in checkout-only mode, the transmission of registration information to other POS terminals 20 and the issuance of payment slips are disabled. In shopping system 1, POS terminal 20 is assumed to operate in checkout-only mode.

[0048] (Full self mode) Full self-service mode is an operating mode in which the store clerk's product registration is disabled and the customer's product registration is enabled. Specifically, full self-service mode is an operating mode that assumes the customer's registration process. In customer-side product registration, the customer-side scanner unit 206 and customer-side display unit 205 are used to register products. Furthermore, full self-service mode is an operating mode that allows the customer to perform settlement processing on their own terminal. Specifically, full self-service mode is an operating mode that enables customer-side product registration and payment insertion. In full self-service mode, the transmission of registration information to other POS terminals 20 and the issuance of payment slips are disabled. Also, in full self-service mode, similar to the dedicated payment mode, it is possible to perform settlement by enabling the reception of registration information from the cloud server Sv and other POS terminals 20 and the reading of payment slips.

[0049] (Example of the configuration of the weighing device 30) The following describes an example configuration of the weighing device 30 shown in Figure 4A, with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the external appearance of the weighing device 30. Figure 4A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the weighing device 30. As shown in Figure 3 or Figure 4A, the weighing device 30 includes a CPU 301, a ROM 302, a RAM 303, a memory 304, a communication unit 305, a display unit 306, a printing unit 307, a scanner unit 308, an audio output unit 309, a load cell 310, and a weighing platform 320. These components can communicate with each other via a bus 330.

[0050] The CPU 301 is a central processing unit that controls the operation of the weighing device 30 by reading and executing various programs, such as the transaction information output program, stored in the ROM 302. ROM302 is read-only memory that stores various types of information used by the CPU301, including programs.

[0051] RAM303 is a read-and-write memory that stores various types of information. For example, RAM303 stores information read from ROM302 and memory304, information obtained from external sources, and information generated during processing.

[0052] Memory 304 stores various types of information. For example, memory 304 stores the unit price of the weighing target product obtained from the store controller 10. Memory 304 also stores output information (language-related table 420, described later using Figure 4B) for displaying or outputting various types of information, such as information indicating the weighing target product, using a set language. Memory 304 also stores a corresponding language table 430, described later using Figure 4C. Note that the various types of information stored in memory 304 may also be stored in an external device (for example, the store controller 10 or an external server device). In this case, the weighing device 30 can query the external device to obtain the various types of information when using it.

[0053] Furthermore, memory 304 may store programs executed by the CPU 301 instead of ROM 302. Also, memory 304 may store information read from ROM 302, information obtained from external sources, or information generated during processing instead of RAM 303.

[0054] The communication unit 305 is an interface for sending and receiving information with external devices. The communication unit 305 receives the unit price corresponding to the product identification information of the product to be weighed from the store controller 10. The weighing device 30 calculates the selling price of the product to be weighed using the weight (or number) of the product placed on the platform 320 and the unit price.

[0055] In addition to communication via network communication, the communication unit 305 also performs short-range wireless communication with the mobile terminal 50. The number of mobile terminals 50 that the communication unit 305 can communicate with via short-range wireless communication is limited, for example, to one. Specifically, it performs one-to-one short-range wireless communication with the mobile terminal 50. One-to-one short-range wireless communication is, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark). One-to-one short-range wireless communication may also be communication using communication protocols such as NFC (Near Field Communication), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), optical communication, 4G (Generation) line, etc. Furthermore, the number of mobile terminals 50 that the communication unit 305 can communicate with via short-range wireless communication is not limited to one, but may be two or three.

[0056] The display unit 306 displays various information to the customer and accepts operations from the customer. The various information displayed on the display unit 306 includes the product name and quantity of the product being weighed, as well as guidance related to weighing. The various information displayed on the display unit 306 also includes a two-dimensional code (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "connection code") that the mobile terminal 50 reads in order to initiate one-to-one communication with the mobile terminal 50.

[0057] The printing unit 307 is a label issuing unit that outputs printed materials (hereinafter also referred to as "labels") on which information about the product to be weighed (such as the weight of the product, the selling price, and barcodes indicating these) is printed. The scanner unit 308 reads various codes (barcodes, 2D codes, etc.). The audio output unit 309 outputs audio. For example, the audio output unit 309 outputs voice guidance related to weighing. The load cell 310 is a sensor that detects weight. The load cell 310 measures the weight of the item to be weighed, which is placed on the weighing platform 320.

[0058] (Language-related table stored in memory 304) Figure 4B is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a language-related table stored in memory 304. As shown in Figure 4B, the language-related table 420 includes language information, weight units, weight conversion values, currency, and monetary conversion values. In the language-related table 420, the language information indicates the languages ​​that can be output by the weighing device 30. The weight units are the units of weight used in correspondence with the language information, specifically the units of weight used in the country where the language indicated by the language information is spoken. The weight conversion values ​​are the values ​​used when converting to weight units based on kilograms. The currency is the units of currency used in correspondence with the language information, specifically the units of currency used in the country where the language indicated by the language information is spoken. The monetary conversion values ​​are the values ​​used when converting to the units of currency corresponding to the language information, based on Japanese yen.

[0059] In Figure 4B, to explain in more detail, the language information indicates Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean, etc. That is, the weighing device 30 can output transaction-related information in the language information indicated by these languages. The weight unit indicates the unit of weight used in each country. For example, in Japanese (Japan), it is "kilogram," in English (United States), it is "ounce," in Chinese (China), it is "gongjin," and in Korean (Korea), it is "kun."

[0060] Also, as shown in the weight conversion values, 1 ounce is "0.0283495 kg", 1 jin is "1 kg", and 1 kun is "0.6 kg". The currency is "yen" in Japanese (Japan), "dollar" in English (United States), "renminbi" in Chinese (China), and "won" in Korean (Korea). Also, as shown in the monetary conversion values, 1 dollar is "107 yen", 1 renminbi is "15.09 yen", and 1 won is "0.087 yen".

[0061] By using such a language-related table 420, the weighing device 30 can display the weighing results, measured in kilograms and Japanese yen, in currency and weight units corresponding to the customer's language (the customer's home country).

[0062] (Supported language table stored in memory 304) Figure 4C is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a corresponding language table stored in memory 304. As shown in Figure 4C, the corresponding language table 430 is a table that associates language information with corresponding languages. The language information is the language information set in the mobile terminal 50 and also indicates language information that cannot be output by the weighing device 30.

[0063] Here, the "languages" stored in the language-related table 420 in Figure 4B are limited to common languages ​​(languages ​​used by foreigners who are expected to visit the store). In other words, the languages ​​used by foreigners who are not expected to visit the store in large numbers (for example, Taiwanese or North Koreans) (for example, Taiwanese or Korean) are not stored in the language-related table 420. Therefore, in the case of such customers, it is possible to display the measurement results using a corresponding language, which is a language close to the language information (a language with affinity).

[0064] To explain in more detail, if the language information set on the mobile terminal 50 is Taiwanese, the corresponding language is Chinese. In other words, in this case, the output information will be output in Chinese. Also, if the language information set on the mobile terminal 50 is Korean, the corresponding language is Korean. In other words, in this case, the output information will be output in Korean. Furthermore, if a special language used by foreigners who are unlikely to visit the store (for example, Greenland) is not stored in the language information in the language-related table 420, the language information will be "Other". English is associated with "Other" as the corresponding language. In addition, Japanese may also be associated with "Other" as the corresponding language.

[0065] (Example configuration of 50 mobile devices) Next, we will describe an example configuration of the mobile terminal 50. Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a mobile terminal 50. In Figure 5, the mobile terminal 50 includes a CPU 501, ROM 502, RAM 503, memory 504, communication I / F (interface) 505, control unit 506, camera 507, microphone 508, display 509, and speaker 510. Each component 501 to 510 is connected by a bus 520.

[0066] The CPU 501 controls the entire mobile terminal 50. The ROM 502 stores various programs. The RAM 503 is used as the work area for the CPU 501. In other words, the CPU 501 controls the entire mobile terminal 50 by executing various programs stored in the ROM 502 while using the RAM 503 as its work area.

[0067] Memory 504 stores various data. For example, flash ROM is used for memory. Memory 504 stores various programs and this application. Memory 504 also stores information on multiple usable languages. Furthermore, memory 504 stores the information on one of the usable languages ​​to be used as the set language. CPU 501 outputs various data in the set language stored in memory 504.

[0068] The communication unit 505 is connected to a network via wireless communication and functions as an interface for the mobile terminal 50 and the CPU 501. The communication network that functions as a network includes the internet and mobile phone networks. In addition to communication via network communication, the communication unit 505 also performs short-range wireless communication with the weighing device 30.

[0069] The control unit 506 is a hard key system equipped with multiple keys for inputting characters, numbers, and various instructions. Camera 507 reads barcodes and various 2D codes attached to products. The microphone 508 takes audio input.

[0070] Display 509 displays various data such as icons, cursors, menus, windows, text, and images. For example, a touch panel may be used for display 509. Display 509 displays the screen in a pre-set language. Speaker 510 outputs sound, including voice. Speaker 510 outputs voice in a pre-set language. The mobile terminal 50 is also equipped with a GPS unit (not shown) and has the function of receiving radio waves from GPS satellites and outputting information indicating the current location of the mobile terminal 50.

[0071] (Regarding the connection between the mobile terminal 50 and the weighing device 30) Here, if the connection time between one mobile terminal 50 and the weighing device 30 is long, the time during which other customers' mobile terminals 50 cannot communicate with the weighing device 30 will also be longer. For example, if, after a mobile terminal 50 and the weighing device 30 have established a communication connection, the customer performs a series of weighing operations, such as provisionally registering the items to be weighed and placing those items on the weighing device 30, then that mobile terminal 50 will occupy the weighing device 30 for a long time. As a result, other customers will be unable to use the weighing device 30, and the efficiency of registering items to be weighed will decrease.

[0072] Therefore, in this embodiment, the weighing device 30 is enabled to weigh the provisionally registered product (provisionally registered product) indicated by the product identification information, on the condition that it receives the provisionally registered product identification information of the product to be weighed from the mobile terminal 50. In other words, the weighing device 30 is enabled to weigh the product to be weighed on the condition that the product to be weighed is provisionally registered in the mobile terminal 50. The provisional registration and final registration of the product to be weighed performed by the mobile terminal 50 will be described in detail below.

[0073] (Regarding the provisional and final registration of weighable products performed by the mobile terminal 50) The mobile terminal 50 (CPU 501) provisionally registers the items to be weighed. Provisional registration only requires that the items to be weighed be identified using a Non-PLU code or a specially assigned number for each item. For example, provisional registration means that information such as product identification, product name, and unit price are registered, but the weight and selling price of the product are not yet registered. Furthermore, even if the provisional registration of a provisionally registered item is canceled, it will not be treated as a pending item as described later. Provisionally registered items are stored in memory 504.

[0074] When the camera 507 reads a barcode (product identification information) that identifies the product to be weighed, the mobile terminal 50 provisionally registers the product to be weighed based on the reading result of the barcode. The provisionally registered product to be weighed is displayed on the display 509. The barcode that identifies the product to be weighed is displayed, for example, near the product to be weighed. The barcode may be displayed on the display or on paper.

[0075] The communication unit 505 communicates with the communication unit 305 of the weighing device 30. Specifically, the communication unit 505 uses, for example, Bluetooth to perform short-range wireless communication with the communication unit 305 of the weighing device 30 on a one-to-one basis. For one-to-one communication, the mobile terminal 50 must have the function for one-to-one communication (hereinafter referred to as the "short-range wireless communication function") turned ON. The mobile terminal 50 also requests the weighing device 30 to establish a connection for one-to-one communication. In response to this connection request, the weighing device 30 starts communication with the mobile terminal 50 and becomes able to receive product identification information that has been provisionally registered on the mobile terminal 50.

[0076] Here, we will explain the procedure for connecting the mobile terminal 50 and the weighing device 30. For example, when the weighing device 30 is not connected to the mobile terminal 50, it is in a pairing-ready state (standby state) for one-to-one communication. When short-range wireless communication is turned ON, the mobile terminal 50 searches for nearby devices that can communicate one-to-one and selects the weighing device 30. Then, when the same passkey is entered into both the mobile terminal 50 and the weighing device 30, one-to-one communication becomes possible.

[0077] The connection code contains information necessary for the mobile terminal 50 to connect with the weighing device 30 (such as information for searching for surrounding devices, specifying the weighing device 30, entering a passkey, and information for sending language information to the weighing device 30). The connection code is displayed, for example, on the display unit 306 of the weighing device 30 when it is in standby mode. Therefore, when a customer reads the connection code with the camera 507 of the mobile terminal 50, the mobile terminal 50 automatically searches for surrounding devices, specifies the weighing device 30, and enters a passkey. In other words, when a customer reads the connection code with the camera 507 of the mobile terminal 50, a connection request is automatically sent from the mobile terminal 50 to the weighing device 30, and a communication connection is automatically established with the weighing device 30.

[0078] Furthermore, when a connection request is made, the language information set on the mobile terminal 50 is transmitted to the weighing device 30. This allows the weighing device 30 to acquire the language information set on the mobile terminal 50.

[0079] Furthermore, the connection code is not limited to being displayed on the weighing device 30, but may also be displayed and posted on paper or elsewhere. Also, one-to-one communication connection is not limited to being established by reading the connection code, but may also be established by receiving requests from the customer, such as searching for nearby devices, specifying the weighing device 30, or entering a passkey. In addition, connection requests are not limited to being made from the mobile terminal 50 to the weighing device 30, but may also be made from the weighing device 30 to the mobile terminal 50.

[0080] Once a one-to-one communication connection is established, the communication unit 505 transmits product identification information, which identifies the provisionally registered product to be weighed, to the weighing device 30, in accordance with the control of the CPU 501.

[0081] The communication unit 305 of the weighing device 30 communicates one-to-one with the communication unit 505 of the mobile terminal 50. The communication unit 305 of the weighing device 30 receives product identification information transmitted from the communication unit 505 of the mobile terminal 50. The CPU 301 of the weighing device 30 weighs the product to be weighed, which is identified by the product identification information received by the communication unit 305. The communication unit 305 transmits the weighing result to the mobile terminal 50 via short-range wireless communication. The weighing result includes the weight (or number) of the product placed on the platform 320, as well as the selling price calculated using the weight (or number) and unit price, and the product identification information (product code) of the product. In other words, the weighing result corresponds to the product information of the product to be weighed.

[0082] The CPU 501 of the mobile terminal 50 performs formal registration of the weighing target products that were provisionally registered based on the weighing results of the weighing device 30. Formal registration means that all information necessary for settlement is registered. Specifically, formal registration includes, for example, the registration of weight and selling price in addition to the provisionally registered product identification information, product name, and unit price. Furthermore, formally registered products differ from provisionally registered products in that, for example, if formal registration is canceled, they are treated as reserved products as described later.

[0083] In this embodiment, if the product to be weighed is not provisionally registered in the mobile terminal 50, a one-to-one communication connection between the weighing device 30 and the mobile terminal 50 is prohibited. The entity that controls the prohibition of the one-to-one communication connection is, for example, the mobile terminal 50. Specifically, even if the mobile terminal 50 reads the connection code, it should not make a connection request if the product to be weighed is not provisionally registered.

[0084] The entity prohibiting one-to-one communication connections may also be the weighing device 30. In this case, the mobile terminal 50 should immediately transmit information about the provisionally registered weighing target product after establishing a one-to-one communication connection. The information about the provisionally registered weighing target product may be information indicating the provisionally registered weighing target product, or information indicating whether or not the weighing target product is provisionally registered. The weighing device 30 should use the information about the provisionally registered weighing target product to determine whether or not the weighing target product is provisionally registered, and if it determines that it is not provisionally registered, it should terminate (prohibit) one-to-one communication with the mobile terminal 50.

[0085] (Regarding the notification encouraging provisional registration) In this embodiment, the weighing device 30 cannot be used unless the weighing product is provisionally registered in the mobile terminal 50. For this reason, if the weighing product has not been provisionally registered in the mobile terminal 50, a notification is issued to that effect. This will be explained in detail. If the weighing product has not been provisionally registered, the mobile terminal 50 will issue a notification prompting the provisional registration of the weighing product. Specifically, if a one-to-one communication connection between the weighing device 30 and the mobile terminal 50 is prohibited, the mobile terminal 50 will issue a notification prompting the provisional registration of the weighing product. The notification prompting provisional registration is issued as a display output from the display 509 or as an audio output from the speaker 510.

[0086] (Notification regarding products that cannot be weighed) Furthermore, the CPU 301 of the weighing device 30 weighs the weighable items (hereinafter referred to as "weighable items") predetermined for each weighing device 30. For example, if the weighing device 30 is located in the vegetable section, the weighable items are various items that fall under the category of vegetables, and if the weighing device 30 is located in the fresh fish section, the weighable items are various items that fall under the category of fresh fish. Product identification information that identifies the weighable items is stored, for example, in the memory 304. Note that product identification information that identifies the weighable items may also be obtained from the store controller 10.

[0087] If the temporarily registered item to be weighed is not a weighable item (i.e., an unweighable item), the mobile terminal 50 will notify that weighing is not possible. The entity that determines whether or not the temporarily registered item to be weighed is a weighable item is, for example, the weighing device 30. In this case, the weighing device 30 determines whether or not the item identification information received from the mobile terminal 50 is included in the item identification information indicating a weighable item stored in the memory 304. If the determination result is negative, the weighing device 30 transmits information to the mobile terminal 50 indicating this. Upon receiving this information, the mobile terminal 50 (CPU 501) will notify that weighing is not possible (notification of an unweighable item). The notification of an unweighable item may be a display output from the display 509 or an audio output from the speaker 510.

[0088] Furthermore, the mobile terminal 50 may be the entity that determines whether a provisionally registered item to be weighed is a weighable item. In this case, for example, the connection code may contain product identification information that identifies a weighable item. When the mobile terminal 50 reads the connection code, it should determine whether the product identification information of the provisionally registered item to be weighed is included in the product identification information of the weighable item obtained from the connection code. If the mobile terminal 50 obtains a negative result in this determination, it should provide notification that weighing is not possible.

[0089] (Functional configuration of the weighing device 30) Next, the functional configuration of the weighing device 30 will be described. The weighing device 30 comprises a communication unit 305 (see Figure 4A), an acquisition unit, an output control unit, a weighing unit, and a label issuing unit. The acquisition unit, output control unit, and weighing unit are implemented by the CPU 301. That is, the CPU 301 implements the functions of each unit by executing a transaction information output program stored in the ROM 302. The label issuing unit is implemented by the printing unit 307.

[0090] The communication unit 305 communicates with a mobile terminal 50, which is an example of a terminal device. The communication unit 305 communicates with the mobile terminal 50 on a one-to-one basis, for example, by short-range wireless communication. The mobile terminal 50 has a language set in advance. Specifically, the mobile terminal 50 has a language set in it by the customer, for example, when the mobile terminal 50 was purchased. The language indicated by this language information is, for example, the language the customer uses on a daily basis. The mobile terminal 50 displays the screen in the language indicated by the set language information. The mobile terminal 50 also accepts customer input.

[0091] The acquisition unit acquires language information set in the mobile terminal 50 through communication with the communication unit 305. Here, when the mobile terminal 50 connects to the weighing device 30, it reads a connection code displayed on the weighing device 30. The connection code contains information indicating that language information should be sent to the weighing device 30. Therefore, when the mobile terminal 50 reads the connection code, it transmits language information to the weighing device 30. In this way, the acquisition unit acquires language information from the mobile terminal 50.

[0092] The output control unit outputs transaction information in the language corresponding to the language information acquired by the acquisition unit. Specifically, if the language information set on the mobile terminal 50 indicates Japanese, the output control unit outputs transaction information in Japanese. On the other hand, if the language information set on the mobile terminal 50 indicates a language other than Japanese (a foreign language), the output control unit outputs transaction information in the other language. Furthermore, if the language information set on the mobile terminal 50 indicates a language other than Japanese, the output control unit may output transaction information in both Japanese and the other language.

[0093] Transaction information includes weighing information related to weighing by the weighing unit. This weighing information includes information for prompting the weighing target product to be placed on the weighing platform 320, and information for prompting the issuance of labels. The output control unit outputs transaction information in the form of voice or display.

[0094] The output control unit outputs transaction information in the same language as the language indicated by a language information set on the mobile terminal 50. Specifically, the output control unit outputs transaction information using the language information stored in the language association table 420 (see Figure 4B). However, there are cases where it is not possible to output in the same language as the language indicated by a language information set on the mobile terminal 50. Specifically, there are cases where the language association table 420 does not store language information identical to that language information. In this case, the output control unit outputs transaction information in another language corresponding to that language information. Specifically, the output control unit refers to the corresponding language table 430 (see Figure 4C) and outputs transaction information in the corresponding language as another language.

[0095] Furthermore, the weighing information includes information on the weight of the product weighed by the weighing unit. The unit of weight of the product weighed by the weighing unit is, for example, kg. The output control unit converts the weight information of the product into a unit of weight corresponding to one language information and outputs it. Specifically, the output control unit converts the unit of weight measured by the weighing unit into a unit of weight corresponding to one language information (for example, ounces) and outputs the weight information. More specifically, the output control unit refers to the "weight conversion value" in the language-related table 420 and converts the weight information obtained by weighing into a unit corresponding to the language information and outputs it. For example, the output control unit displays both the unit of weight before conversion (for example, kg) and the converted unit of weight (for example, ounces) on the display unit 306.

[0096] Furthermore, transaction information includes information on the purchase price of the goods. The purchase price is the amount the customer pays for the goods, and is obtained, for example, by multiplying the unit price and weight (or quantity) of the goods. The unit of communication for the purchase price is, for example, Japanese yen. The output control unit converts the purchase price information into a currency corresponding to one of the language information (for example, dollars) and outputs it. Specifically, the output control unit refers to the "amount conversion value" in the language-related table 420, converts the purchase price into a currency corresponding to the language information, and outputs the purchase price information. For example, the output control unit displays both the unit of the currency before conversion (for example, Japanese yen) and the unit of the converted currency (for example, dollars) together on the display unit 306.

[0097] The label issuing unit also issues labels. The output control unit causes the label issuing unit to issue labels in the language corresponding to one of the language information. The label issuing unit issues labels using the printing unit 307. The label issuing unit issues labels in the same language as the language indicated by the language information set on the mobile terminal 50. If the label issuing unit cannot output a label in the same language as the language indicated by the language information set on the mobile terminal 50, it issues a label in a compatible language. Furthermore, if the language information set on the mobile terminal 50 indicates Japanese, the label issuing unit issues a label in Japanese only. On the other hand, if the language information set on the mobile terminal 50 indicates a language other than Japanese, the label issuing unit issues a label with the other language written alongside Japanese.

[0098] (Regarding the timing of the end of foreign language output) The output control unit terminates the output in a foreign language at a predetermined timing. The predetermined timing is, for example, when weighing is completed, when a label is issued, or when the customer receives the label. Specifically, the timing of weighing completion is, for example, when the load cell 310 has completed detecting the weight. The timing of label issuance is when the label issuing unit has completed issuing the label. The timing of the customer receiving the label is when the sensor that detects the customer taking out the label detects that taking out the label. The output control unit may also terminate the output in a foreign language after a predetermined time has elapsed from each of the above timings.

[0099] (Functional configuration of POS terminal 20) Next, the functional configuration of the POS terminal 20 will be described. The POS terminal 20 comprises a communication unit 215 (see Figure 2), an acquisition unit, an output control unit, a settlement unit, and a printing unit 213. The acquisition unit, output control unit, and settlement unit are implemented by the CPU 201. That is, the CPU 201 implements the functions of each unit by executing a transaction information output program stored in the ROM 202.

[0100] The POS terminal 20 stores a table equivalent to the language-related table 420 (see Figure 4B) stored by the weighing device 30 (hereinafter referred to as the "language-related table of the POS terminal 20"). The POS terminal 20 also stores a table equivalent to the corresponding language table 430 (see Figure 4C) stored by the weighing device 30 (hereinafter referred to as the "corresponding language table of the POS terminal 20").

[0101] The communication unit 215 communicates with a mobile terminal 50, which is an example of a terminal device. The communication unit 215 communicates indirectly with the mobile terminal 50 via the cloud server Sv. However, the communication unit 215 may also communicate directly with the mobile terminal 50.

[0102] The acquisition unit acquires language information set on the mobile terminal 50 via communication from the communication unit 215. This language information is transmitted from the cloud server Sv along with registration information when settlement is initiated by the settlement unit. The registration information is the information included in the cart information registered on the cloud server Sv. The acquisition unit acquires the language information received by the communication unit 215.

[0103] The output control unit outputs transaction information in the language corresponding to the language information acquired by the acquisition unit. Specifically, if the language information set on the mobile terminal 50 indicates Japanese, the output control unit outputs transaction information in Japanese. On the other hand, if the language information set on the mobile terminal 50 indicates a language other than Japanese (a foreign language), the output control unit outputs transaction information in the other language. Furthermore, if the language information set on the mobile terminal 50 indicates a language other than Japanese, the output control unit may output transaction information in both Japanese and the other language.

[0104] Transaction information includes registration information used for settlement by the settlement unit. The output method of transaction information by the output control unit is audio or display.

[0105] Furthermore, the output control unit outputs the registration information in the same language as the language indicated by the language information set in the mobile terminal 50. Specifically, the output control unit outputs the registration information using the language information stored in the language association table of the POS terminal 20. However, there are cases where it is not possible to output the same language as the language indicated by the language information set in the mobile terminal 50. Specifically, there are cases where the language association table of the POS terminal 20 does not store language information identical to the language information in question. In this case, the output control unit outputs the registration information in another language corresponding to the language information in question. Specifically, the output control unit refers to the corresponding language table of the POS terminal 20 and outputs the registration information in the corresponding language as another language.

[0106] Furthermore, the transaction information output by the output control unit of the POS terminal 20 may include information on the weight of the product measured by the weighing device 30. In this case, the output control unit converts the product weight information into a unit of weight corresponding to one of the language information and outputs it. Specifically, the output control unit converts the unit of weight measured by the weighing device 30 into a unit of weight corresponding to one of the language information (e.g., ounces) and outputs the weight information. More specifically, the output control unit refers to the "weight conversion value" in the language-related table of the POS terminal 20 and converts the weight information obtained by weighing into a unit corresponding to the language information and outputs it. For example, the output control unit displays both the unit of weight before conversion (e.g., kg) and the converted unit of weight (e.g., ounces) on the customer-side display unit 205.

[0107] Furthermore, the transaction information output by the output control unit of the POS terminal 20 may include information on the purchase price of the goods. In this case, the unit of communication for the purchase price is, for example, Japanese yen. The output control unit converts the purchase price information into a currency corresponding to one of the language information (for example, dollars) and outputs it. Specifically, the output control unit refers to the "amount conversion value" in the language-related table of the POS terminal 20, converts the purchase price into a currency corresponding to the language information, and outputs the purchase price information. For example, the output control unit displays both the unit of the currency before conversion (for example, Japanese yen) and the unit of the converted currency (for example, dollars) on the customer-side display unit 205.

[0108] Furthermore, the printing unit 213 may issue various media such as receipts. In this case, the output control unit causes the printing unit 213 to issue the various media in the language corresponding to one of the language information settings. Specifically, the printing unit 213 issues the various media in the same language as the language indicated by the language information set in the mobile terminal 50. If the printing unit 213 cannot output the various media in the same language as the language indicated by the language information set in the mobile terminal 50, it issues the various media in a corresponding language. Also, if the language information set in the mobile terminal 50 indicates Japanese, the printing unit 213 issues the various media in Japanese only. On the other hand, if the language information set in the mobile terminal 50 indicates a language other than Japanese, the printing unit 213 issues the various media with the other language written alongside Japanese.

[0109] (Regarding the timing of the end of foreign language output) The output control unit terminates the output of the foreign language at predetermined timings. These predetermined timings include, for example, the timing when change is dispensed, the timing when a receipt is issued, and the timing when the change or receipt is removed. Specifically, the timing when change is dispensed is, for example, the timing when the change is dispensed from the dispenser 209. The timing when a receipt is issued is the timing when the receipt is printed by the printing unit 213. The timing when the change is removed is the timing when the sensor in the change machine 209 detects that the change has been removed. The timing when the receipt is removed is the timing when the sensor that detects the customer removing the receipt detects that removal. The output control unit may also terminate the output of the foreign language after a predetermined time has elapsed from each of the above timings.

[0110] (An example of information managed by the cloud server Sv) Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of various types of information for each mobile terminal 50 managed by the cloud server Sv. The cloud server Sv stores various types of information, including (A) customer information, (B) store information, and (C) shopping cart information. In addition to or instead of storing various types of information in the storage unit of its own device, the cloud server Sv may store some or all of the various types of information in other devices such as a file server that the cloud server Sv can access.

[0111] (Customer information) Figure 6(A) shows an example of customer information. Customer information is information used to manage individual customers. Customer information may also be membership information for each store or chain of stores. As shown in Figure 6(A), customer information includes customer identification information, customer name, customer registration date, customer rank, and points balance.

[0112] Customer identification information is identification information that uniquely identifies a customer. Customer identification information may be, for example, application identification information (hereinafter referred to as "app identification information") that is uniquely assigned to each installed app when this app is installed on the mobile terminal 50. App identification information may be, for example, a sequentially assigned number. Alternatively, app identification information may be terminal identification information that is uniquely assigned to the mobile terminal 50 on which this app is installed. This terminal identification information may be, for example, a telephone number assigned to the customer who is the user of the mobile terminal 50, or hardware identification information that is unique to the hardware of the mobile terminal 50, such as a MAC (Media Access Control) address.

[0113] The customer name is the customer's name, nickname, etc. The customer registration date is the date and time when the customer information was newly registered on the cloud server Sv. Customer ranks are determined based on a customer's purchase history. The number of points refers to the number of points awarded to the customer for making purchases using this app. Note that the number of points may include points awarded by individual stores.

[0114] Customer identification information, customer name, and customer registration date are generated when customer information for a new customer is created. Specifically, customer identification information is generated when this application is downloaded to the mobile device 50 from the cloud server Sv or a designated server that provides the application in general. The customer name is generated based on the information entered in the name field of the registration form (input form) on the mobile device 50 when a new customer is registered. The customer registration date is generated based on the current date and time when the customer is newly registered.

[0115] (Store Information) Figure 6(B) shows an example of store information. Store information is information used to manage each store. As shown in Figure 6(B), store information includes store identification information, store name, store identification information 1 (2D code information), and store identification information 2 (location information). Store identification information includes the store (trade name) or company code and the branch code. A store name is the name of the store, and for example, it consists of the store name (trade name) or company name and the branch name.

[0116] Store identification information 1 and 2 are information used to identify the store where the transaction takes place (the store where the goods are bought and sold). Store identification information 1 is, for example, information about a 2D code. Store identification information 2 is location information (GPS information) indicating the store's location. In the example shown in Figure 6(B), store identification information and store identification information 1 and 2 are stored, but since any of this information can uniquely identify the store, it is sufficient to store at least one of them.

[0117] (Cart information) Figure 6(C) shows an example of shopping cart information. Shopping cart information is information about products registered by a customer in a store. As shown in Figure 6(C), shopping cart information includes shopping cart identification information, transaction start date and time, transaction end date and time, customer identification information, language information, and registered product information. Cart identification information is information used to identify shopping cart information. Specifically, cart identification information includes store identification information, date, and serial number (for example, a date-specific serial number for each store).

[0118] The transaction start date and time is the date and time the transaction began, for example, the date and time the cart information was generated. Alternatively, the transaction start date and time may be the registration date and time of a single product, specifically the date and time when the registered product information (Registered Product 1) shown in Figure 6(C) was stored. Furthermore, instead of, or in addition to, the registration date and time for each product may be stored separately.

[0119] The transaction end date and time is the date and time the transaction was completed, specifically the date and time of settlement. For example, the transaction end date and time is the date and time the settlement was completed, but it could also be the date and time the settlement was started. Customer identification information is information that uniquely identifies the customer conducting the transaction.

[0120] Language information refers to information indicating the language the customer uses on a daily basis, for example, information indicating the language set on the mobile device 50. The cloud server Sv obtains this language information when it is transmitted from the mobile device 50 at the start of a transaction.

[0121] The Registered Product Information (Total) is cumulative information that is updated each time a product is registered. This information includes the number of items, estimated subtotal amount, and subtotal amount. The registered product information (registered product N: where N is an integer) indicates products registered under N items. Registered product information N includes the product code, product name, price, and registration date and time for the product. Specifically, registered product information (registered product 1) indicates product 1. Registered product information (registered product 2) indicates product 2. In the example shown in Figure 6(C), the registered product information for the third item and beyond is omitted from the illustration.

[0122] Next, we will explain the information regarding items on hold. Items on hold are items that require verification by a store employee. For example, items on hold include unscanned items, non-filed items, items requiring age verification, items requiring removal of security tags, and pharmaceuticals.

[0123] Unscanned products are pending products that could not be registered because the product code scan failed (the scanner failed to read the code). For example, if the product packaging is wrinkled or the barcode printing is smudged or dirty, the barcode may not be recognized due to a timeout.

[0124] Here, we will elaborate on the failure to recognize a barcode due to a timeout. The mobile terminal 50 is equipped with various sensors (e.g., a gyroscope, an accelerometer, a distance sensor, etc.) and can determine whether it is reading a barcode using the detection results of these sensors and the image captured by the camera 507. Specifically, the mobile terminal 50 can determine, using the detection results of the various sensors, that it is tilted and that a product is located at a certain distance from the mobile terminal 50, and that this constitutes reading a barcode. If the mobile terminal 50 determines that it is reading a barcode but fails to read the barcode within a predetermined time, it times out and identifies the product as an unscanned item.

[0125] Furthermore, unscanned items include, for example, items that were placed in the shopping cart after the barcode was supposedly scanned. In other words, items that fail to scan are items that may have been subjected to fraudulent activity and require verification by a store employee to determine whether or not fraudulent activity has occurred. Fraudulent activity can be detected using, for example, scan results indicating whether or not the barcode was scanned, images from a camera that photographs the inside of the shopping cart, or detection results that detect the total weight of the items in the shopping cart.

[0126] Non-file products are products whose product codes were successfully scanned (they did not become unscanned products), and whose product could not be registered because the product could not be identified in the product master (the product inquiry failed).

[0127] Products that require age verification include, for example, alcoholic beverages and tobacco products that minors cannot purchase. Products that require the removal of security tags include, for example, products that have security tags attached, such as those priced above a certain amount. Pharmaceuticals, for example, are products that require explanation from a pharmacist.

[0128] As shown in Figure 6(C), the total pending product information includes the number of pending products (unscanned products, non-filed products). Note that products requiring age verification, products requiring removal of security tags, and pharmaceuticals are omitted from the illustration.

[0129] The pending product information (pending product N: N is an integer) contains information on N pending products, including the pending product type for each of the N pending products. The pending product type indicates the type of pending product. In this example, pending product type "1" indicates an unscanned product, and pending product type "2" indicates a non-file product. The pending product information also includes the registration date and time of the product.

[0130] Furthermore, the information on held items for unscanned products includes the held item type "1" as well as image data of the product (image data captured when the mobile terminal 50 read the barcode). For example, held item information (3) includes the held item type "1 (unscanned product)" and image data.

[0131] Furthermore, the held product information for non-file products includes the held product type "2 (non-file product)" as well as the product code read by the mobile terminal 50. For example, held product information (1) includes the held product type "2 (non-file product)" as well as the product code.

[0132] (An example of the process related to product registration and settlement in Shopping System 1) Figure 7 is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow related to product registration and payment in shopping system 1. Figure 7 illustrates the process when a customer visits a store, registers the products they wish to purchase using their mobile device 50, and completes the payment for those products at the POS terminal 20.

[0133] Step S601: First, the mobile terminal 50 acquires information that identifies the store (store identification information). Here, an example of how store identification information is acquired is described. For example, a two-dimensional code indicating store identification information (store identification information 1) is displayed near the entrance of the store. The two-dimensional code may be displayed on a predetermined display device or displayed by printing it on a medium. The mobile terminal 50 activates the camera 507 when the application is launched in response to the operation of a customer who has entered the store. Then, the camera 507 scans the two-dimensional code in response to the customer's operation. As a result, the mobile terminal 50 acquires store identification information. The two-dimensional code may contain store identification information for identifying the store.

[0134] Another example of how store-specific information can be acquired is the acquisition of location information. For example, the mobile terminal 50 acquires location information (GPS information) in response to the actions of a customer who has visited the store. This location information is used for comparison with store-specific information 2 and serves as a substitute for store-specific information 1. The mobile terminal 50 may also be configured to acquire location information and connect to the cloud server Sv when the application is launched in response to the actions of a customer who has visited the store, and to display a screen as the initial screen informing the user that it is connecting to the cloud server Sv.

[0135] The mobile terminal 50, having acquired store identification information, requests the cloud server Sv to initiate a transaction. Specifically, as shown in the transmitted and received data D1 in Figure 7, the mobile terminal sends the acquired store identification information, customer identification information, and language information indicating the language set on the mobile terminal 50 to the cloud server Sv.

[0136] Step S602: When the cloud server Sv receives customer identification information, store identification information, and language information as a transaction start request from the mobile terminal 50, it generates cart information for that transaction. Specifically, as shown in Figure 6(C), the cloud server Sv generates cart information that includes cart identification information, transaction start date and time, customer identification information, and language information. More specifically, when the cloud server Sv receives store identification information as a transaction start request from the mobile terminal 50, it refers to the store information (see Figure 6(B)) and identifies the store identification information. If the cloud server Sv receives location information from the mobile terminal 50, it refers to the store identification information 2 in the store information and identifies the store identification information corresponding to the location information. If the store identification information is included in the 2D code, the cloud server Sv can also obtain the store identification information received from the mobile terminal 50.

[0137] Furthermore, when the cloud server Sv receives a transaction initiation request from the mobile terminal 50, it obtains the current date and issues (assigns) a serial number. The cloud server Sv then combines the obtained store identification information, the obtained current date, and the issued serial number and stores them as cart identification information. Additionally, when the cloud server Sv receives a transaction initiation request from the mobile terminal 50, it stores the current date and time, and the transaction initiation date and time (generation date and time) in the cart information. Furthermore, when the cloud server Sv receives customer identification information from the mobile terminal 50, it stores the received customer identification information in the cart information. Finally, when the cloud server Sv receives language information as a transaction initiation request from the mobile terminal 50, it stores the received language information in the cart information.

[0138] Step S603: When the cloud server Sv generates the cart information for the transaction, it generates the screen information for the initial screen, which is the product registration screen (initial product registration screen information), and sends it to the mobile terminal 50. Specifically, the cloud server Sv sends the cart identification information along with the initial product registration screen information to the mobile terminal 50 (transmitted and received data D2 in Figure 7). The initial product registration screen information to be sent may be screen information corresponding to the language information.

[0139] Step S604: When the mobile terminal 50 receives cart identification information and initial product registration screen information from the cloud server Sv, it stores the cart identification information and displays the product registration screen on the display 509 in the language set on the mobile terminal 50.

[0140] Step S605: The mobile terminal 50 scans the product (the barcode attached to the product) in response to the customer's operation. After scanning the product, the mobile terminal 50 sends the product code obtained by the scan, along with the cart identification information, to the cloud server Sv (see transmitted / received data D3 in Figure 7). If the product indicated by the scanned product code is, for example, a pending product such as an unscanned product, then the transmitted / received data D3 will include the cart identification information and information indicating that it is a pending product.

[0141] Step S606: When the cloud server Sv receives the product code and cart identification information from the mobile terminal 50, it identifies the cart information containing the received cart identification information.

[0142] Step S607: The cloud server Sv updates the registered product information included in the identified cart information. Specifically, when the cloud server Sv receives product codes for N items, it stores the registered product information (registered product N) indicated by those product codes. More specifically, the cloud server Sv stores the product code, product name, and price in association. The cloud server Sv also updates the cumulative information of registered product information (cumulative number of items, subtotal amount, etc.) from the identified cart information.

[0143] If there are discounts on the products, the discount amount may be calculated in step S607 to determine the price of the registered product information and the subtotal amount of the cumulative information. Also, if the tax rate differs for each product, the tax rate for each product may be taken into consideration in step S607 to determine the price of the registered product information and the subtotal amount of the cumulative information.

[0144] Step S608: When the cloud server Sv updates the registered product information in the cart, it generates screen information (product registration update screen information) showing the update screen where the registered product is added, and sends it to the mobile terminal 50. At this time, the cloud server Sv also sends cart identification information to the mobile terminal 50 along with the product registration update screen information (transmitted and received data D4 in Figure 7).

[0145] Step S609: When the mobile terminal 50 receives cart identification information and product registration update screen information from the cloud server Sv, it displays the product registration update screen with the product added to the registration screen. Note that although not shown in Figure 7 for the sake of explanation, the processes from steps S605 to S609 are repeatedly executed each time the barcode attached to the product is scanned. In other words, the processes from steps S605 to S609 loop until the instruction to complete registration in step S610, which will be described later, is received.

[0146] Step S610: The mobile terminal 50 receives a registration completion instruction from the customer. For example, the mobile terminal 50 receives a registration completion instruction when the registration completion button (registration completion button) displayed on the display 509 is pressed.

[0147] Step S611: When the mobile terminal 50 receives the instruction to complete registration, it generates a settlement code. The settlement code includes cart identification information and transmission request information to prompt the POS terminal 20 to perform the settlement. The transmission request information is information that prompts the cloud server Sv to send the registration information to the POS terminal 20. The registration information is information necessary for settlement, and includes, for example, the product name, price, and subtotal amount from the registered product information. When the mobile terminal 50 generates a settlement code, it displays the generated settlement code on the display 509.

[0148] Step S612: The customer who has completed registering the products scans the payment code displayed on the display 509 of the mobile terminal 50 using the customer-side scanner unit 206 of the POS terminal 20. This allows the POS terminal 20 to obtain the cart identification information. Note that the POS terminal 20 that is capable of scanning the payment code is the POS terminal 20 that is controlled in either checkout-only mode or full self-service mode.

[0149] Step S613: When the POS terminal 20 reads the payment code displayed on the display 509 of the mobile terminal 50, it sends a request to the cloud server Sv to transmit registration information and language information (transmission request information). Specifically, the POS terminal 20 sends a transmission request to the cloud server Sv that includes the cart identification information recovered from the payment code (transmission and reception data D5 in Figure 7).

[0150] Step S614: When the cloud server Sv receives cart identification information and transmission request information from the POS terminal 20, it identifies the cart information, including the received cart identification information. Step S615: When the cloud server Sv identifies the cart information, it sends various information, including cart identification information, registration information (information indicating registered product information and subtotal amount), and language information, as transmitted / received data D6 to the POS terminal 20 (transmitted / received data D6 in Figure 7). If there are any items on hold in the identified cart information, registration information including information on the items on hold is sent to the POS terminal 20.

[0151] Step S616: When the POS terminal 20 receives registration information from the cloud server Sv, it displays the registration information in a predetermined language corresponding to the language information (for example, the same language as set on the mobile terminal 50) on the customer-side display unit 205. The predetermined language is Japanese only if the language information indicates Japanese, and both Japanese and the other language if the language information indicates a language other than Japanese.

[0152] Furthermore, in the list display, if there are items on hold, the subtotal amount excluding the items on hold may be displayed, or the subtotal amount may not be displayed. Also, if there are items on hold, a store employee will be called. In this case, the POS terminal 20 will transmit information indicating the existence of items on hold, as well as notification information to dispatch a store employee to the POS terminal 20, for example, to the monitoring terminal 11 or a terminal device held by the store employee.

[0153] Step S617: The POS terminal 20 executes the settlement process. During the settlement process, the POS terminal 20 accepts the selection of the payment type. The payment type may be pre-registered in this application. If the payment type is pre-registered, the POS terminal 20 does not need to display the payment type selection screen. However, even if the payment type is registered, the POS terminal 20 may still display the screen for selecting the payment type.

[0154] Furthermore, during the settlement process, the POS terminal 20, for example, accepts cash, dispenses change, and issues a receipt. The POS terminal 20 then transmits information indicating the settlement details and cart information to the cloud server Sv. The cloud server Sv then stores the transaction completion date and time (settlement date and time) of the cart information. In this way, the series of processes is completed.

[0155] In the process described above, the mobile terminal 50 sends the transmitted / received data D3 (cart identification information and product code) to the cloud server Sv each time a product is scanned. However, the transmission of the transmitted / received data D3 is not limited to each time a product is scanned. For example, the mobile terminal 50 may store the product code each time a product is scanned, and when it receives the instruction to complete registration, it may send the product code along with the cart identification information to the cloud server Sv all at once. By doing so, the number of communications between the mobile terminal 50 and the cloud server Sv can be reduced.

[0156] (An example of the registration process for items to be weighed) Figure 8 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of the registration process for products to be weighed. Step S801: The mobile terminal 50 scans the barcode of the product to be weighed in response to the customer's operation. Step S802: The mobile terminal 50 provisionally registers the product to be weighed, which is identified from the scanned barcode, and displays the provisional registration screen.

[0157] Step S803: The weighing device 30 displays a standby screen when it is in a standby state and not communicating with any of the mobile terminals 50. The standby screen displays a connection code. Step S804: After the mobile terminal 50 provisionally registers the product to be weighed, it scans the connection code displayed on the weighing device 30 in response to the customer's operation. The connection code contains information indicating that language information will be sent to the weighing device 30. Step S805: When the mobile terminal 50 scans the connection code, it makes a one-to-one communication connection request to the weighing device 30. The connection request includes language information indicating the language set on the mobile terminal 50.

[0158] Furthermore, in step S805, if the product to be weighed is not provisionally registered, the mobile terminal 50 will not request a connection to the weighing device 30 even if the connection code is scanned. This is because if the connection time between a mobile terminal 50 and the weighing device 30 is long, the time that the customer carrying the mobile terminal 50 occupies the weighing device 30 will also be long, and this is intended to shorten the time of occupancy.

[0159] Step S806: When the weighing device 30 receives a connection request from the mobile terminal 50, it performs a pairing determination, which includes authentication of one-to-one communication and determination of whether the provisionally registered product is the product to be weighed by the weighing device 30. Step S807: If pairing is successful in the pairing determination, the weighing device 30 starts one-to-one communication with the mobile terminal 50. Step S808: If pairing is successful, the mobile terminal 50 will begin one-to-one communication with the weighing device 30.

[0160] Step S809: The weighing device 30 displays the weighing screen for the provisionally registered product in a predetermined language corresponding to the language information (for example, the same language as set on the mobile terminal 50). The predetermined language is Japanese only if the language information indicates Japanese, and both Japanese and the other language if the language information indicates a language other than Japanese. Step S810: The weighing device 30 weighs the goods that the customer has placed on the platform 320. Step S811: When the weighing device 30 has finished weighing, it accepts the customer's input and outputs a label showing the weighing result in a predetermined language (Japanese only, or Japanese and a foreign language). When outputting the label, the weighing device 30 transmits the weighing result to the mobile terminal 50.

[0161] Step S812: When the mobile terminal 50 receives the weighing result, it displays the weighing result. Note that the timing at which the weighing result is transmitted to the mobile terminal 50 is not limited to the timing at which the label is printed, but may also be the timing at which the weighing is completed in the weighing device 30. In this case, the timing at which the weighing result is displayed on the mobile terminal 50 will be the timing at which the weighing is completed.

[0162] Step S813: The mobile terminal 50 displays the registration update screen and completes the registration of the product to be weighed. Step S814: The mobile terminal 50 transmits the product information of the weighed product obtained from the weighing result, along with the cart identification information, to the cloud server Sv. Step S815: When the cloud server Sv receives product information and basket identification information from the mobile terminal 50, it identifies the cart information that contains the received cart identification information.

[0163] Step S816: The cloud server Sv updates the registered product information containing the identified cart information. Specifically, when the cloud server Sv receives product information for N items, it stores the product codes contained in that product information as the product codes for the registered product information (registered product N). Furthermore, the cloud server Sv stores the association between the product code, product name, and price. In addition, the cloud server Sv updates the cumulative information (cumulative number of items, subtotal amount, etc.) of the registered product information from the identified cart information.

[0164] Note that, for the sake of clarity, the process from step S810 to step S816 is repeated for each provisionally registered item to be weighed, although this is omitted in Figure 8 for illustrative purposes.

[0165] (An example of the registration process for weighing items performed by the mobile terminal 50) Figure 9A is a flowchart showing an example of the product registration process performed by the mobile terminal 50. The process shown in the flowchart of Figure 9A is initiated continuously (periodically at very short time intervals) on the mobile terminal 50.

[0166] In Figure 9A, the mobile terminal 50 determines whether or not it has scanned the barcode of the product to be weighed (step S901). If the mobile terminal 50 does not scan the barcode of the product to be weighed (step S901: NO), it proceeds to step S903. If the mobile terminal 50 has scanned the barcode of the product to be weighed (step S901: YES), it provisionally registers the product to be weighed (step S902). The provisionally registered product to be weighed is displayed on the display 509.

[0167] Then, the mobile terminal 50 determines whether or not it has scanned the connection code (step S903). If it has not scanned the connection code (step S903: NO), the mobile terminal 50 proceeds to step S909. If it has scanned the connection code (step S903: YES), the mobile terminal 50 determines whether or not there are any items to be weighed that are currently being provisionally registered (step S904). Specifically, in step S904, it determines whether or not the items to be weighed are stored in memory 504 as items currently being provisionally registered.

[0168] If there are no items to be weighed that are currently being provisionally registered (Step S904: NO), the mobile terminal 50 notifies the user to prompt provisional registration (Step S905) and terminates the series of processes. The conditions for terminating the notification prompting provisional registration include receiving an operation from the user to terminate the notification or receiving an operation to perform provisional registration.

[0169] On the other hand, if there are weighing targets that are currently being provisionally registered (step S904: YES), the mobile terminal 50 determines whether the short-range wireless communication function for one-to-one communication is turned on (step S906). If the short-range wireless communication function is off (step S906: NO), the mobile terminal 50 issues a function-on notification (step S907). The conditions for ending the function-on notification include receiving an operation from the user to end the notification or receiving an operation to turn on the short-range wireless communication function.

[0170] If the short-range wireless communication function is turned on (step S906: YES), the mobile terminal 50 makes a one-to-one communication connection request to the weighing device 30 (step S908). The connection request includes language information indicating the language set on the mobile terminal 50. When this connection request is made, the mobile terminal 50 displays a screen indicating that it is connecting. The mobile terminal 50 then determines whether pairing was successful or not (step S909). If pairing is successful (step S909: YES), one-to-one communication (pairing) with the weighing device 30 begins (step S910). When pairing begins, the mobile terminal 50 transmits the identification information of the temporarily registered product to the weighing device 30.

[0171] Then, within a predetermined time after successful pairing, the mobile terminal 50 determines whether or not it has received error information indicating that the temporarily registered product is not subject to weighing by the weighing device 30 (step S911). If it does not receive error information indicating that the product is not subject to weighing (step S911: NO), it performs connection processing (see Figure 9B) while connected to the weighing device 30 (step S912) and terminates the series of processes. On the other hand, if it receives error information indicating that the product is not subject to weighing (step S911: YES), the mobile terminal 50 notifies that the product is not subject to weighing (step S913). Then, the mobile terminal 50 unpairs (step S914) and terminates the series of processes.

[0172] If pairing fails in step S909 (step S909: NO), the mobile terminal 50 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the connection request was made (step S915). If the predetermined time has not elapsed since the connection request was made (step S915: NO), the mobile terminal 50 returns to step S909. If the predetermined time has elapsed since the connection request was made (step S915: YES), the mobile terminal 50 notifies the user of a retry of the connection request in order to prompt the user to perform an operation related to communication connection again (step S916), and terminates the series of processes.

[0173] The termination conditions for the notification of a connection request retry include receiving an operation from the user to terminate the notification or receiving an operation to scan the connection code again.

[0174] (Processing performed by the mobile terminal 50 during connection with the weighing device 30)

[0175] Figure 9B is a flowchart showing an example of the connection process performed by the mobile terminal 50 with the weighing device 30. In Figure 9B, the mobile terminal 50 determines whether or not it has received a weighing result from the weighing device 30 via short-range wireless communication (step S921). If the mobile terminal 50 has received a weighing result from the weighing device 30 (step S921: YES), it displays the weighing result on the display 509 (step S922).

[0176] Then, when the mobile terminal 50 receives basket identification information and product registration update screen information from the cloud server Sv, it displays the product registration update screen and completes the final registration of the weighed products (step S923). Next, the mobile terminal 50 obtains product information of the weighed products obtained from the weighing results and sends the obtained product information and basket identification information to the cloud server Sv (step S924).

[0177] Next, the mobile terminal 50 determines whether the weighing of all provisionally registered weighing targets has been completed (step S925). Specifically, the mobile terminal 50 determines whether the final registration of all provisionally registered weighing targets has been completed. If the weighing of all provisionally registered weighing targets has been completed (step S925: YES), the mobile terminal 50 unpairs (step S926) and terminates the series of processes.

[0178] If weighing has not been completed for all provisionally registered weighing targets (step S925: NO), the mobile terminal 50 determines whether the communication connection with the weighing device 30 has been disconnected (step S927). Disconnection of the communication connection may occur, for example, when the distance between the weighing device 30 and the mobile terminal 50 exceeds the range of short-range wireless communication. Specifically, disconnection of the communication connection may occur when the customer goes to another sales area before the final registration of all weighing targets is completed.

[0179] If the communication connection with the weighing device 30 is not disconnected (step S927: NO), the mobile terminal 50 returns to step S921. If the communication connection with the weighing device 30 is disconnected (step S927: YES), the mobile terminal 50 notifies that the communication has been disconnected (step S928). The conditions for ending this notification include receiving an operation from the user to terminate the notification or the communication being reconnected.

[0180] The mobile terminal 50 then determines whether or not the communication connection with the weighing device 30 has ended (step S929). Termination of the communication connection occurs, for example, when the user requests to terminate the connection, or when the disconnected state continues for a predetermined period of time or longer. If the communication connection with the weighing device 30 has ended (step S929: YES), the mobile terminal 50 terminates the series of processes. If the communication connection with the weighing device 30 has not ended (step S929: NO), the mobile terminal 50 returns to step S921.

[0181] (An example of transaction information output processing performed by the weighing device 30) Figure 9C is a flowchart showing an example of the transaction information output processing performed by the weighing device 30. The processing shown in the flowchart of Figure 9C is started continuously (periodically at very short time intervals) in the weighing device 30.

[0182] In Figure 9C, the weighing device 30 determines whether or not it is in standby mode (step S941). If it is not in standby mode (step S941: NO), the weighing device 30 proceeds to step S947. If it is in standby mode (step S941: YES), the weighing device 30 determines whether or not there is a connection request from the mobile terminal 50 (step S942).

[0183] If there is no connection request (step S942: NO), the weighing device 30 returns to step S941. If there is a connection request (step S942: YES), the weighing device 30 determines whether pairing was successful or not (step S943). If pairing fails (step S943: NO), the weighing device 30 returns to step S941.

[0184] If pairing is successful (step S943: NO), the weighing device 30 refers to the language information transmitted with the connection request (step S944) and determines whether it is possible to display in the language indicated by the language information (step S945). Specifically, the weighing device 30 refers to the language association table 420 (see Figure 4B) to determine whether it is possible to display in the language indicated by the language information. If it is possible to display in the language indicated by the language information (step S945: YES), the weighing device 30 sets the same language as indicated by the language information as the language for display and voice (step S946).

[0185] On the other hand, if the language information is not available in the language indicated (step S945: NO), that is, if it is a language that is not pre-configured, such as Taiwanese, the weighing device 30 refers to the corresponding language table 430 (see Figure 4C) and sets the corresponding language (step S947). The corresponding language may be set according to the customer's selection.

[0186] The weighing device 30 displays the content in the language set in step S946 or step S947. If the set language is Japanese, the weighing device 30 displays the content in Japanese only; if the set language is a foreign language, the display will show the content in both Japanese and the foreign language.

[0187] Once the language settings are complete, the weighing device 30 begins one-to-one communication (pairing) with the mobile terminal 50 (step S948). The weighing device 30 then waits until the weighing of the products temporarily registered in the mobile terminal 50 is complete (step S949: NO). Once the weighing of the temporarily registered products is complete (step S949: YES), the weighing device 30 displays a print button for outputting a label on the display unit 306 (step S950).

[0188] Next, the weighing device 30 determines whether or not the print button has been pressed (step S951). The weighing device 30 waits until the print button is pressed (step S951: NO). When the print button is pressed (step S951: YES), the weighing device 30 prints out a label (step S952). Then, the weighing device 30 transmits the weighing result to the mobile terminal 50 via short-range wireless communication (step S953). Upon receiving the weighing result, the mobile terminal 50 displays the product registration update screen and completes the final registration of the weighed product.

[0189] The weighing device 30 then determines whether or not the weighing of all items temporarily registered in the mobile terminal 50 has been completed (step S954). If the weighing of all temporarily registered items has not been completed (step S954: NO), the weighing device 30 returns to step S949. If the weighing of all temporarily registered items has been completed (step S954: YES), the weighing device 30 unpairs with the mobile terminal 50 (step S955). The weighing device 30 then transitions to a standby state (step S956) and terminates the series of processes.

[0190] (An example of transaction information output processing performed by POS terminal 20) Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the transaction information output process performed by the POS terminal 20. In Figure 10, the POS terminal 20 determines whether or not it has read the settlement code displayed on the mobile terminal 50 (step S1001). The POS terminal 20 waits until it has read the settlement code (step S1001: NO). Once the settlement code has been read (step S1001: YES), the POS terminal 20 requests the cloud server Sv to send the registration information (step S1002).

[0191] The POS terminal 20 then receives registration information from the cloud server Sv. Next, the POS terminal 20 refers to the language information included in the registration information (step S1004) and determines whether or not it can be displayed in the language indicated by the language information (step S1005). Specifically, the POS terminal 20 refers to its language-related table to determine whether or not it can be displayed in the language indicated by the language information. If it can be displayed in the language indicated by the language information (step S1005: YES), the weighing device 30 sets the same language as indicated by the language information as the language for display and voice (step S1006).

[0192] On the other hand, if the language information indicates that the content cannot be displayed in the language indicated (step S1005: NO), that is, if it is a language that is not pre-configured, such as Taiwanese, the POS terminal 20 refers to the POS terminal 20's supported language table and sets the supported language (step S1007). The supported language may be set according to the customer's selection.

[0193] The POS terminal 20 displays the content in the language set in step S1006 or step S1007. If the set language is Japanese, the POS terminal 20 displays the content in Japanese only; if the set language is a foreign language, it displays the content in Japanese along with the foreign language.

[0194] Once the language settings are complete, the POS terminal 20 displays the registration information in the set language (step S1008). Then, it performs a series of settlement processes, accepting the customer's payment and issuing a receipt (step S1009), and the series of processes ends.

[0195] (Instructions for registering items to be weighed while displaying Japanese text) Next, using Figures 11 to 15, we will explain the procedure for registering items to be weighed while displaying Japanese text. Figure 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the procedure for registering weighable products. Figure 11 describes an example in which the camera 507 of a mobile terminal 50 captures identification information of weighable products that a customer wishes to purchase. In the fruit section (sales area) of the store, for example, weighable products 1101a for lemons, 1101b for apples, and 1101c for oranges are displayed. Behind each weighable product 1101 (1101a to 1101c), there is a sign 1102 (1102a to 1102c) with a display. In the following explanation, the lemon sign 1102a will be used as an example, but the same applies to the other signs 1102b and 1102c.

[0196] Label 1102a displays the word "Lemon," the unit price, and barcode 1103. The unit price indicates that it is nn yen per kilogram. Barcode 1103 contains information that identifies the item to be weighed 1101a (product identification information) and the unit price. Barcode 1103 is read by the mobile terminal 50.

[0197] The label 1102a is displayed on the screen. The label 1102a can change the content of the barcode 1103 depending on the time. For example, it can be used to prevent fraud such as applying discounts during time-limited sales or conducting transactions using barcodes that have been scanned in the past. Specifically, this fraud would involve, for example, taking a picture of a barcode from the previous day's time-limited sale with a camera, and then scanning that barcode the next day to register the weighed product 1101 at the unit price from the previous day's time-limited sale. The label 1102a may also be printed on a printed medium such as paper.

[0198] Furthermore, in Figure 11, the display screen of the mobile terminal 50 shows the temporary registration screen after the barcodes 1103 of the lemon weighing item 1101a and the apple weighing item 1101b have been read. Specifically, the display screen of the mobile terminal 50 shows the product names (product identification information) of the lemon and apple, indicating that the weighing of each product has not yet been performed.

[0199] More specifically, the display 509 of the mobile terminal 50 shows a subtotal field 550, a temporary registration field 551 (551a, 551b), a final registration field 552, and a reading result 560. The subtotal field 550 displays the total amount of the final registered items. The temporary registration field 551 displays the temporarily registered weighing target items 1101. Specifically, the temporary registration fields 551a and 551b display "Weighing Required" for lemons and apples, respectively, indicating that weighing is required, and "?? yen" indicating that the price is undetermined because weighing has not been completed.

[0200] Reading result 560 shows the reading result for barcode 1103. Reading result 560 includes the unit price of the item being weighed 1101. Note that the illustration shows the screen when the barcode 1103 for the apple is read first, followed by the barcode 1103 for the lemon.

[0201] Furthermore, the temporary registration fields 551a and 551b are displayed in a different format than the main registration field 552. In the illustration, the temporary registration fields 551a and 551b are displayed in a shaded format. This display format makes it easier for customers to recognize that they are in the temporary registration stage, and encourages them to proceed with weighing. Note that while "?? yen" is displayed in the temporary registration field 551, it is not limited to this, and a unit price may also be displayed.

[0202] The main registration field 552 displays the registered product and its price. This field indicates that one item of yogurt priced at 160 yen has been registered. To the right of the subtotal field 550, a checkout button 554 is displayed. Pressing the checkout button 554 allows you to proceed with payment for the registered product.

[0203] Furthermore, the screen for registering weighable item 1101 may be a dedicated screen separate from the screen for registering regular items that are not weighable item 1101. For example, if the barcode 1103 of weighable item 1101 is read while the screen for registering regular items is displayed, a dedicated screen showing only weighable item 1101 should be displayed. On this dedicated screen, for example, only weighable item 1101 can be registered. This makes it clearer that weighable item 1101 has been provisionally registered and that weighing is required.

[0204] Here, a control may be implemented on the dedicated screen to prohibit the registration of regular products when the barcode of a regular product is scanned. Specifically, when the barcode of a regular product is scanned on the dedicated screen, the message "Please weigh the weighable product first" may be displayed. This helps prevent customers from forgetting to weigh the weighable product 1101 that they have provisionally registered. The condition for lifting the prohibition on registration may be the completion of the final registration of weighable product 1101, or a button to cancel the provisional registration of weighable product 1101 may be displayed and accepted when this button is pressed.

[0205] Furthermore, the dedicated screen may be configured to allow registration when the barcode of a regular product is scanned. Specifically, when the barcode of a regular product is scanned on the dedicated screen, the system may return to the screen for registering regular products. After returning to the screen for registering regular products, the system may also display a notification indicating that the weighing target product 1101 is in the process of being temporarily registered (for example, a message such as "There is a product that needs to be weighed"). This helps to prevent customers from forgetting to weigh the weighing target product 1101 that is in the process of being temporarily registered.

[0206] (Regarding the standby screen of the weighing device 30) Next, an example of a standby screen displayed on the weighing device 30 will be explained using Figure 12. Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a standby screen displayed on the weighing device 30. As shown in Figure 12, the display unit 306 of the weighing device 30 displays a standby screen 1200 that is displayed when the device is in standby mode. The standby screen 1200 displays a language switching button 1201, a first guide field 1210, and a second guide field 1220.

[0207] The language switching button 1201 is a button that switches the language displayed in the first information field 1210 and the second information field 1220, and accepts switching to one of the following languages, for example, English, Chinese, and Korean.

[0208] The first instruction section 1210 provides instructions for registering items to be weighed using the mobile terminal 50. Specifically, the first instruction section 1210 displays a connection code 1211 and instructions to have the mobile terminal 50 read the connection code 1211.

[0209] The second instruction section 1220 provides instructions for registering items to be weighed without using the mobile terminal 50. Specifically, the second instruction section 1220 displays instructions prompting the user to place the items to be weighed on the scale and weigh them. The following section explains how to use the mobile terminal 50.

[0210] As shown in Figure 11, once the mobile terminal 50 has completed the provisional registration of lemons and apples, the customer has the mobile terminal 50 read the connection code 1211. Even after the provisional registration is complete, the mobile terminal 50 displays the same screen as when scanning the product barcodes. Therefore, the customer can have the mobile terminal 50 read the connection code 1211 without having to switch screens.

[0211] Upon reading the connection code 1211, the mobile terminal 50 requests a communication connection from the weighing device 30 based on the instructions indicated by the connection code 1211. This enables the mobile terminal 50 and the weighing device 30 to begin one-to-one communication. Once communication is established, the mobile terminal 50 transmits information about the temporarily registered products to the weighing device 30. For example, if lemons and apples are temporarily registered as shown in Figure 11, the mobile terminal 50 transmits identification information for the lemons and apples.

[0212] Upon receiving product identification information, the weighing device 30 displays a screen on the display unit 306 prompting the user to weigh the product indicated in the identification information. For example, if multiple products to be weighed are provisionally registered, the weighing device 30 displays a screen on the display unit 306 prompting the user to weigh each product in the order in which the barcodes were read by the mobile terminal 50.

[0213] (Regarding the pairing screen displayed on the mobile device 50) Next, we will explain the screen displayed on the mobile device 50 during the pairing process. Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the mobile terminal 50 during pairing. Figure 13(A) shows the screen when the mobile terminal 50 requests a connection to the weighing device 30. As shown in Figure 13(A), the display 509 of the mobile terminal 50 shows a status indicator 1310 indicating that it is attempting to establish a communication connection with the weighing device 30. Once pairing is complete, the screen transitions to the one shown in Figure 13(B).

[0214] Figure 13(B) shows the screen when a communication connection is established. As shown in Figure 13(B), the display 509 of the mobile terminal 50 shows a guidance message 1320 prompting the user to place the product on the scale. Note that since the mobile terminal 50 provisionally registered apples before lemons, the guidance message 1320 prompting the user to weigh the apples is displayed before the guidance message prompting the user to weigh the lemons.

[0215] (An example of a screen displayed on the weighing device 30 and the mobile terminal 50 during weighing) Next, we will describe the screens displayed on the weighing device 30 and the portable terminal 50 during weighing. Figure 14 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the screen displayed on the weighing device 30 and the mobile terminal 50 during weighing.

[0216] Figure 14(A) shows the operation guidance screen 1400 displayed on the display unit 306 of the weighing device 30 when the mobile terminal 50 reads the connection code 1211 (see Figure 12) and starts weighing apples with the weighing device 30. The operation guidance screen 1400 displays a guidance display S1, a product name display 1401, a back button 1402, a cancel button 1403, a search button 1404, a weighing result field 1405, a unit price field 1406, a total amount field 1407, and mobile terminal information 1430.

[0217] The guidance display S1 indicates instructions prompting the user to place the product on the weighing platform 320. The product name display 1401 shows the product name of the product to be weighed. The back button 1402 is a button that accepts the user to return to the previous screen. The cancel button 1403 is a button that accepts the user to cancel the weighing. The search button 1404 is a button that accepts the user to search for nearby mobile terminals 50 in order to reconnect with the mobile terminal 50, for example, if the communication connection with the mobile terminal 50 is lost.

[0218] The weighing result column 1405 shows the weight of the item being weighed, which is placed on the weighing platform 320. Note that the weighing result column 1405 is not limited to displaying the weight; for example, for items where the approximate weight per unit is known, the number of units calculated based on the weight may be displayed. The unit price column 1406 shows the unit price (for example, the price per kilogram). The total amount column 1407 shows the total amount calculated from the weighing result and the unit price.

[0219] The mobile device information 1430 is text information displayed to let the customer know which mobile device 50 is currently connected to. Specifically, the mobile device information 1430 displays the text information "Connected to ○○". The "○○" part in the mobile device information 1430 can be any information that identifies the member, such as the customer's name, ID, nickname, member name, member number, or a character or mark chosen by the member.

[0220] Furthermore, the mobile terminal information 1430 is not limited to text information. For example, the mobile terminal information 1430 may display different background images or colors for predetermined parts for each customer (each mobile terminal 50). For example, the background image of the weighing device 30 and the background image of the mobile terminal 50 may be related images. Specifically, for example, the background image of the mobile terminal 50 and the background image of the weighing device 30 (display unit 306) may be displayed in the same color (e.g., yellow).

[0221] Furthermore, the same type of mark may be displayed on both the mobile terminal 50 and the weighing device 30. Displaying the same type of mark means, for example, if it is possible to display animal marks such as lions or zebras, the lion mark will be displayed on both the mobile terminal 50 and the weighing device 30. The control to display related images or identical images on both the mobile terminal 50 and the weighing device 30 may be performed based on instructions from the mobile terminal 50 or based on instructions from the weighing device 30.

[0222] Furthermore, the mobile terminal information 1430 should also be a display that allows for a clear distinction between when the mobile terminal 50 is connected and when it is not. For example, the background color of the weighing device 30 could be different depending on whether the mobile terminal 50 is connected or not, or the font size or type could be different.

[0223] Furthermore, when connected to the mobile terminal 50, the illustration of the mobile terminal 50 may be displayed larger than when not connected to the mobile terminal 50. Also, for example, when connected to the mobile terminal 50, the text "Mobile terminal connection mode" may be displayed, and when not connected to the mobile terminal 50, the text "Normal registration mode" may be displayed.

[0224] In this way, by displaying the mobile terminal information 1430, it is possible to clearly indicate that a connection with the mobile terminal 50 is in progress. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a customer other than the customer who owns the mobile terminal 50 from attempting to connect to the weighing device 30 using their own mobile terminal 50.

[0225] Figure 14(B) shows the weighing completion screen 1410, which is displayed when a customer places an apple on the weighing platform 320 and weighing is complete. The weighing completion screen 1410 differs from the operation guidance screen 1400 in Figure 14(A) in that it displays the contents of the weighing result field 1405, the total amount field 1407, the guidance display S2, and the print button 1408. The contents of the weighing result field 1405 show the weight (1.2006 kg in the figure). The contents of the total amount field 1407 show the total amount (¥432 in the figure). The total amount displayed in the total amount field 1407 is, for example, the product of weight and unit price. Note that the total amount is displayed rounded down to the nearest yen.

[0226] The guidance display S2 indicates a prompt to press the print button 1408. The print button 1408 is a button that accepts the issuance of a label printed with information about the product to be weighed. The print button 1408 is displayed, for example, only after the product to be weighed has been placed and the weighing value has stabilized. Alternatively, the print button 1408 may be grayed out and unavailable until the weighing value stabilizes, and then ungrayed out and available for use once the weighing value has stabilized.

[0227] In the weighing completion screen 1410 shown in Figure 14(B), when the print button 1408 is pressed, a label (see Figure 15) is ejected from the output port of the printing unit 307, and the screen shown in Figure 14(C) is displayed.

[0228] Figure 14(C) shows a guidance screen 1420 that prompts the user to affix a label to the bag containing the product to be weighed (apples). When displaying the screen shown in Figure 14(C), the weighing device 30 transmits the weighing results for the apples (product identification information, confirmation that they have been weighed, price, etc.) to the mobile terminal 50 via short-range wireless communication. Upon receiving the weighing results through this communication, the mobile terminal 50 displays the screen shown in Figure 14(D).

[0229] Figure 14(D) shows the screen displayed on the mobile terminal 50 when the apple registration is completed. As shown in Figure 14(D), the mobile terminal 50 has received the weighing result of the apple from the weighing device 30, and the screen displays the final registration field 552a corresponding to the apple, replacing the temporary registration field 551b (see Figure 13) corresponding to the apple.

[0230] In the main registration field 552a, the shading that was displayed in the temporary registration field 551b is removed, and the price (432 yen) is also displayed. In addition, the text "Weighing Required" that was displayed in the temporary registration field 551b is changed to the text "Weighed" in the main registration field 552a in Figure 14(D). This allows the customer to be notified that the weighing of the apples has been completed. Note that in the main registration field 552a, the weighed weight (e.g., 0.5 kg) or the unit price (e.g., ¥1000 / kg) may be displayed instead of the text "Weighed".

[0231] Furthermore, after the weighing device 30 displays the screen shown in Figure 14(C) and a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds) has elapsed, it transitions to a screen prompting the user to weigh the lemons. The screen transitions of the weighing device 30 and the mobile terminal 50 when weighing lemons are the same as when weighing apples, so the explanation is omitted. Once the full registration of all provisionally registered weighing targets (apples and lemons) is complete, the weighing device 30 displays the standby screen 1200 shown in Figure 12 after a predetermined time has elapsed (for example, 3 seconds).

[0232] (An example of a label issued by the weighing device 30) Figure 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a label issued by the weighing device 30. The label 1500 shown in Figure 15 is a linerless label (hereinafter referred to as "linerless label") in which the sheet St does not have cuts according to a specified label size. When using a linerless label, a sheet St with adhesive on the back is used, wound into a roll. The printing unit 307 of the weighing device 30 stores the roll of sheet St. When issuing a label 1500, the printing unit 307 feeds out the roll of sheet St and prints the predetermined information on the fed sheet St. The printing unit 307 then cuts a portion of sheet St corresponding to the amount of printed data using a cutter and issues one label 1500. In this way, the length of the linerless label in the feed direction (issuance direction) is variable according to the amount of data to be printed.

[0233] To explain Figure 15 in detail, label 1500 includes the following information: product name 1501, unit price 1502, net weight 1503, selling price 1504, and barcode 1505. Product name 1501 is the name of the product to which label 1500 is attached (apple). Unit price 1502 is the selling price per kilogram of apples. Net weight 1503 indicates the weight of the product to which label 1500 is attached. Selling price 1504 indicates the purchase price of the product to which label 1500 is attached. Barcode 1505 is a coded representation of the information printed on product name 1501, unit price 1502, net weight 1503, and selling price 1504. Note that barcode 1505 is a one-dimensional barcode, but other display formats such as two-dimensional codes may also be used.

[0234] Note that the sheet St may not be linerless, but may be a label called a tack sheet, for example. For a tack sheet, for example, a label sheet with a backing sheet attached, in which a label sheet of a predetermined size is temporarily attached to a backing sheet and wound up, is used. The label sheet with the backing sheet may have pre-cut lines at predetermined intervals, or may have labels of a predetermined size continuously attached with predetermined intervals (margins) in between. The length and width of the tack sheet are fixed. When using a tack sheet, the printing unit 307 prints on the label sheet with the backing sheet, and then uses a dispenser (peeling unit) provided near the label sheet output port to peel the label sheet from the backing sheet and issue labels one by one.

[0235] (Regarding the procedure for registering weighable items with foreign language display) Next, Figures 16 to 19 will be used to explain the procedure for registering weighable items while displaying information in a foreign language. Figures 16 to 19 show the content shown in Figures 11 to 15 displayed in a foreign language (for example, Chinese). In the following explanations of outputting display screens etc. in a foreign language, the same reference numerals will be used for configurations similar to those already explained, and explanations will be omitted as appropriate.

[0236] Figure 16 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the procedure for registering weighable goods in a foreign language. The mobile terminal 50 shown in Figure 16 belongs to a Chinese customer. This mobile terminal 50 is set to use Chinese as its language. In Figure 16, the display 509 of the mobile terminal 50 shows the content displayed on the display 509 of the mobile terminal 50 shown in Figure 11, but in Chinese.

[0237] The subtotal column 550 displays not only the total amount of the registered products but also the amount converted to Chinese currency (Renminbi). This allows foreign customers to see the total amount converted to their own currency. Since exchange rates change constantly, the conversion can be done using, for example, the average value from the previous month, or the mobile terminal 50 can obtain the real-time rate and perform the conversion.

[0238] Furthermore, the unit price of item 1101, as shown in reading result 560, includes not only the unit price per "kg" but also the unit price in Chinese yuan per "gongjin," the Chinese unit of weight. Since 1 gongjin is equal to 1 kg, no conversion is necessary for weight. For example, when expressing the unit price in dollars, the amount and weight should also be converted, and the unit price should be listed in "dollars / ounce."

[0239] (Regarding the standby screen with foreign language display shown on the weighing device 30) Figure 17 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a standby screen with foreign language display shown on the weighing device 30. As shown in Figure 17, the standby screen 1200 displayed on the display unit 306 during standby is shown in Chinese. This is because the Chinese button 1201a, which switches to Chinese among the language switching buttons 1201, has been pressed. The language switching buttons 1201 also include a Japanese button 1201b. When the Japanese button 1201b is pressed, the display returns to Japanese.

[0240] (Regarding the foreign language display screen shown on the mobile device 50 during pairing) FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen with foreign language display during pairing displayed on the mobile terminal 50. As shown in FIG. 18(A), on the display 509 of the mobile terminal 50, a status display 1310 indicating that a communication connection with the weighing device 30 is being attempted is displayed in Chinese. Further, as shown in FIG. 18(B), on the display 509 of the mobile terminal 50, a guidance display 1320 prompting to place the product on the scale is displayed in Chinese.

[0241] (An example of a screen with foreign language display during weighing displayed on the weighing device 30 and the mobile terminal 50) FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen with foreign language display during weighing displayed on the weighing device 30 and the mobile terminal 50.

[0242] As shown in FIGS. 19(A) to (C), on the display unit 306 of the weighing device 30, each display is shown in Chinese. The unit price displayed in the unit price column 1406 shows the unit price in Chinese yuan in addition to the unit price in Japanese yen. In addition, when conversion is required from "kg" as in the case where the unit of weight is "ounce", the unit price converted for the weight (for example, "dollars / ounce") may also be shown together in the unit price column 1406.

[0243] Thereby, foreign customers can grasp the unit price converted into their own country's currency. Also, in the total amount column 1407 of FIG. 19(B), in addition to the total amount in Japanese yen, the total amount converted into Chinese yuan is also shown. Thereby, foreign customers can grasp the total amount converted into their own country's currency. Since the exchange rate changes at any time, for example, the average value of the previous month may be used for conversion, or the weighing device 30 may acquire the real-time rate and perform conversion. Similarly for the mobile terminal 50, as shown in FIG. 19(D), each display on the display 509 is shown in Chinese.

[0244] (An example of a label issued by the weighing device 30 in a foreign language) FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a label issued by the weighing device 30 in a foreign language. The label 2000 shown in FIG. 20 is a linerless label.

[0245] In label 2000 of Figure 20, the product name 1501 contains the name of the product to which label 2000 is attached (apple) in both Japanese and Chinese. The unit price 1502 contains the selling price per kilogram of apples in both Japanese and Chinese. The net weight 1503 contains the weight of the product to which label 2000 is attached in both Japanese and Chinese. The selling price 1504 contains the amount of the product to which label 1500 is attached in both Japanese yen and its converted value in Chinese yuan.

[0246] The size of label 2000 differs from that of label 1500, as shown in Figure 15. Specifically, label 2000 uses the same font size for Japanese characters as label 1500, but adds Chinese characters. As a result, label 2000 is larger than label 1500. Thus, for labels issued in foreign languages, the display area is larger due to the inclusion of foreign language text, making a linerless label desirable. In particular, using a linerless label eliminates the need to reduce the size of both Japanese and foreign language characters, thus minimizing a decrease in legibility.

[0247] However, Label 2000 is not limited to linerless labels; it may also be a tack sheet. When using a tack sheet, since the size of the sheet St is fixed, the font size of the text written on Label 2000 should be reduced.

[0248] (Regarding screen transitions when displaying Japanese text and making a payment) Next, using Figures 21 and 22, we will explain an example of a screen used when displaying Japanese text and performing a payment. Figure 21 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display 509 of the mobile terminal 50.

[0249] Figure 21(A) shows the screen displayed when registering products on the mobile terminal 50. As shown in Figure 21(A), the display 509 of the mobile terminal 50 shows a subtotal field 550, a main registration field 552, and a checkout button 554. In Figure 21(A), when the checkout button 554 is pressed, the mobile terminal 50 transitions to the screen shown in Figure 21(B).

[0250] Figure 21(B) shows the screen when the payment code 2100 is displayed on the mobile terminal 50. As shown in Figure 21(B), the display 509 of the mobile terminal 50 shows the payment code 2100, the guidance display area 2101, and the registration reset button 2102.

[0251] The settlement code 2100 encodes the cart identification information of the mobile terminal 50 and the information used to request the cloud server Sv to start the settlement process. The guidance display area 2101 displays instructions to have the POS terminal 20 read the settlement code 2100. The registration return button 2102 is a button that accepts a return to the screen where products can be scanned (the screen in Figure 21(A)).

[0252] When the customer-side scanner unit 206 of the POS terminal 20 reads the settlement code 2100, the POS terminal 20 becomes capable of executing the settlement process.

[0253] (Example of screen transitions displayed on the customer-side display unit 205 of the POS terminal 20 during payment) Figure 22 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the screen transitions displayed on the customer-side display unit 205 of the POS terminal 20 during payment. Figure 22(A) shows the guidance screen 2200. The guidance screen 2200 prompts the customer to have the customer-side scanner unit 206 read the payment code 2100 (see Figure 21(B)). The guidance screen 2200 displays a language switching button 2201. The language switching button 2201 is a button that switches the language displayed on the guidance screen 2200, and accepts switching to, for example, English, Chinese, and Korean.

[0254] In the guidance screen 2200 shown in Figure 22(A), when the customer has the payment code 2100 displayed on the mobile terminal 50 read by the customer-side scanner unit 206, the system transitions to the list display screen 2210 shown in Figure 22(B).

[0255] Figure 22(B) shows the transaction information list display screen 2210. The list display screen 2210 shown in Figure 22(B) includes a transaction information display 2211, a checkout start button 2212, a staff call button 2213, and a sort button 2214. The transaction information display 2211 shows the product name, number of items purchased (purchase weight), purchase amount, etc. for each registered product, as well as the total number of items and total amount for all registered products.

[0256] The transaction information display 2211 has a larger display area and is easier for customers to read compared to the main registration field 552 (see Figure 21(A)) displayed on the display 509 of the mobile terminal 50. Because of the highly visible transaction information display 2211, customers can easily check the products they have registered. The transaction information display 2211, for example, displays products in descending order of purchase price.

[0257] The "Start Checkout" button 2212 is a button that accepts the customer's request to start the checkout process. The "Call Staff" button 2213 is a button that accepts the customer's request to call a staff member. The "Sort" button 2214 is a button that accepts the request to change the sorting order of products displayed on the transaction information display 2211, such as sorting by registration order or by department.

[0258] The products displayed in the transaction information display 2211 in Figure 22(B) will be explained in detail. Three products are registered in the transaction information display 2211. When the customer checks the transaction information display 2211 and confirms that there is no discrepancy between the registered products and the products they actually purchase, they press the start payment button 2212. When the start payment button 2212 is pressed, the POS terminal 20 starts the payment process.

[0259] (Regarding screen transitions when displaying a foreign language and making a payment) Next, an example of the screen when displaying a foreign language and performing settlement will be described using FIGS. 23 and 24. Note that FIGS. 23 and 24 show the case where the content shown in FIGS. 21 and 22 is displayed in a foreign language (for example, Chinese).

[0260] FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed in Chinese on the display 509 of the mobile terminal 50. In FIGS. 23(A) and (B), the content shown in FIGS. 21(A) and (B) is displayed in Chinese on the display 509 of the mobile terminal 50. In the subtotal column 550 of FIG. 23(A), in addition to the total amount of the registered products, the amount converted into the Chinese currency (Renminbi) is also displayed.

[0261] (Example of transition of the screen displayed in a foreign language on the customer-side display unit 205 of the POS terminal 20 at the time of settlement) FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the transition of the screen displayed in a foreign language on the customer-side display unit 205 of the POS terminal 20 at the time of settlement. In FIGS. 24(A) and (B), the content shown in FIGS. 22(A) and (B) is displayed in Chinese.

[0262] In FIG. 24(A), the guidance screen 2200 is displayed when the Chinese button 2201a for switching to Chinese among the language switching buttons 2201 is pressed. Also, the language switching button 2201 in FIG. 24(A) includes a Japanese button 2201b. When the Japanese button 2201b is pressed, it returns to the Japanese notation.

[0263] The list display screen 2210 in FIG. 24(B) is displayed in Chinese when the POS terminal 20 receives the registration information including the language information set in the mobile terminal 50 from the cloud server Sv. Note that the list display screen 2210 is not limited to being displayed by receiving the language information, and it may be displayed when the Chinese button 2201a is pressed on the guidance screen 2200 in FIG. 24(A).

[0264] As described above, the weighing device 30 according to this embodiment outputs transaction information in a language corresponding to a language information set in the mobile terminal 50. Therefore, the language used by the weighing device 30 can be automatically switched to a language corresponding to a language information set in the mobile terminal 50. In other words, even foreign customers who do not understand the language spoken in the store where the shopping system 1 is installed can have transaction information output in their own language without having to verbally tell the store staff a language they understand or perform any operation themselves to switch to a language they understand. Therefore, it is possible to support foreign customers and others who use a language different from the language used in the store in making a convenient purchase.

[0265] Furthermore, the weighing device 30 according to this embodiment outputs weighing information in a language corresponding to a language information set in the mobile terminal 50 when performing weighing. Therefore, when a foreign customer uses the weighing device 30 to weigh the product to be weighed, the weighing process can be suitably supported.

[0266] Furthermore, the weighing device 30 according to this embodiment converts the weight information of the weighed product into a unit of weight corresponding to a language setting in the mobile terminal 50 and outputs it. This allows foreign customers to output transaction information in the unit of weight used in their home country. Therefore, when foreign customers weigh products using the weighing device 30, they can easily determine the weight of the products to be weighed.

[0267] Furthermore, the weighing device 30 according to this embodiment converts the purchase price information of the goods into a currency corresponding to a language setting in the mobile terminal 50 and outputs it. This allows foreign customers to receive transaction information in the currency they use in their home country. Therefore, foreign customers can easily grasp the monetary value of the goods they purchase.

[0268] Furthermore, the weighing device 30 according to this embodiment is configured to issue labels in a language corresponding to a language setting in the mobile terminal 50. This allows foreign customers to easily understand the contents of the label.

[0269] Furthermore, the POS terminal 20 according to this embodiment outputs transaction-related information (registration information) in a language corresponding to a language setting in the mobile terminal 50 during checkout. As a result, even foreign customers who do not understand the language spoken in the store where the shopping system 1 is installed can complete the checkout process in their own language without having to verbally communicate a language they understand to the store clerk or perform any operations themselves to switch to a language they understand. Therefore, the checkout process can be effectively supported when foreign customers are making a purchase.

[0270] (Modified version of Embodiment 1) Next, a modified example of Embodiment 1 will be described. In the following modified examples, explanations of the contents described in Embodiment 1 above will be omitted as appropriate.

[0271] (Variation 1) In Embodiment 1 described above, a configuration was described in which the weighing device 30 directly acquires language information from the mobile terminal 50. In addition to this configuration, or as an alternative to this configuration, Modification 1 describes a configuration in which the weighing device 30 acquires language information from member information.

[0272] In Modification 1, the cloud server Sv stores member information. Member information is, for example, the customer information shown in Figure 6(A) which also includes language information. The language information is stored in association with the customer identification information. The language information is the language selected by the customer during member registration. Note that the language information may also be obtained from the customer's place of residence or nationality.

[0273] Before starting to weigh the product to be weighed, the weighing device 30 reads the member code written on the member card or the member code displayed on the mobile terminal 50. The timing of reading the member code may be before or after pairing with the mobile terminal 50 begins. The member code is an encoded form of information including customer identification information (see Figure 6(A)).

[0274] When the weighing device 30 reads a member code, it queries the cloud server Sv for language information. Specifically, the weighing device 30 sends the read member code to the cloud server Sv and requests the cloud server Sv to send language information corresponding to that member.

[0275] The cloud server Sv refers to the member information, identifies the language information corresponding to the member code (customer identification information) received from the weighing device 30, and transmits the language information to the weighing device 30. This allows the weighing device 30 to acquire the language information. If language information is to be acquired from member information, the connection code displayed by the weighing device 30 may not include information indicating that language information is being sent to the weighing device 30.

[0276] Furthermore, in Modification 1, member information is stored on the cloud server Sv, but this is not the only option. Member information may also be stored on another device, such as the store controller 10. In this case, the weighing device 30 can simply query the other device for language information.

[0277] According to Modification 1, the weighing device 30 can output transaction information in the language indicated by the language information identified from the member information. In other words, the weighing device 30 can automatically switch to a language corresponding to one of the language information obtained from the member information. Therefore, it can suitably support the shopping of foreign customers who use different languages ​​when they make a purchase.

[0278] (Modification 2) In the above-described embodiment 1, the POS terminal 20 was configured to acquire language information transmitted by the mobile terminal 50 to the cloud server Sv. In addition to or as an alternative to this configuration, in modification 2, the POS terminal 20 is configured to acquire language information from member information, similar to modification 1.

[0279] In Modification 2, the cloud server Sv stores member information, similar to Modification 1. Before starting the transaction, the POS terminal 20 reads the member code written on the member card or the member code displayed on the mobile terminal 50. The timing of reading the member code may be before or after reading the payment code displayed on the mobile terminal 50.

[0280] When the POS terminal 20 reads a member code, it queries the cloud server Sv for language information. Specifically, the weighing device 30 sends the read member code to the cloud server Sv and also requests the cloud server Sv to send language information corresponding to that member.

[0281] The cloud server Sv refers to the member information, identifies the language information corresponding to the member code (customer identification information) received from the POS terminal 20, and transmits the language information to the POS terminal 20. This allows the POS terminal 20 to obtain the language information. If language information is to be obtained from the member information, the transmission request information that the POS terminal 20 sends to the cloud server Sv (see transmission / reception data D5 in Figure 7) may not include information indicating a request to transmit language information.

[0282] According to Modification 2, the POS terminal 20 can output transaction information in the language indicated by the language information identified from the member information. In other words, the POS terminal 20 can automatically switch to the language corresponding to one of the language information obtained from the member information. Therefore, it can effectively support the shopping of foreign customers who use different languages ​​when they make a purchase.

[0283] (Embodiment 2) Next, Embodiment 2 will be described. Embodiment 1 described above described a configuration in which the present invention is applied to a shopping system 1 including a POS terminal 20, a weighing device 30, and a mobile terminal 50. Embodiment 2 will describe a configuration in which the present invention is applied to a shopping system including a ticket vending machine and a call display. In the following embodiments, explanations of the contents described in Embodiment 1 described above will be omitted as appropriate.

[0284] (Network configuration of the shopping system 2500 according to Embodiment 2) Figure 25 is an explanatory diagram showing the network configuration of the shopping system 2500 according to Embodiment 2. The shopping system 2500 is an example of a transaction information output system. The shopping system 2500 is used, for example, in a self-service restaurant where customers purchase meal tickets and receive their goods (food) when cooking is complete. Examples of self-service restaurants include food courts, ramen shops, curry shops, and beef bowl restaurants.

[0285] In Figure 25, the shopping system 2500 includes a ticket vending machine 2510, a call display 2520, a kitchen monitor 2530, and a kitchen printer 2540. Each of these devices is connected via a LAN 2550 for communication. Each of these devices is also a computer device equipped with a CPU, ROM, RAM, communication unit, display unit, etc. The ticket vending machine 2510 is an example of a terminal device. The call display 2520 is an example of a transaction information output device.

[0286] The ticket vending machine 2510 is installed, for example, near the entrance of a store and issues meal tickets corresponding to the items (cooked menu items) offered at the restaurant. When a customer enters the store, they purchase a meal ticket from the ticket vending machine 2510 by inserting cash or scanning electronic money. Once the ticket vending machine 2510 issues a meal ticket, it transmits the corresponding registration information to the kitchen monitor 2530 and kitchen printer 2540. This allows the kitchen staff to know that an order has been placed for the item (dish) corresponding to that meal ticket. After purchasing the meal ticket, the customer waits until the cooking is complete. The meal ticket has an order number printed on it.

[0287] The call display 2520 is positioned in a location visible to customers within the store. For example, the call display 2520 is positioned above the counter where customers pick up their orders. The call display 2520 displays the order number printed on the meal ticket. Specifically, when the product corresponding to the order number is being prepared, the call display 2520 displays the order number in the display area indicating that the product is being prepared (hereinafter referred to as the "preparation area"). Furthermore, when the preparation of the product corresponding to the order number is complete, the call display 2520 displays the order number in the display area indicating that the product is prepared (hereinafter referred to as the "completion area"). When the customer sees the order number printed on the meal ticket displayed in the completion area, they go to pick up their product and the transaction is completed.

[0288] The kitchen monitor 2530 is located in the kitchen and displays the order details received by the ticket vending machine 2510. The kitchen monitor 2530 also receives notification from the kitchen staff when the cooking of the ordered dishes is complete. The kitchen monitor 2530 then transmits information indicating that cooking is complete to the call display 2520. The kitchen printer 2540 is located in the kitchen and prints the order details received by the ticket vending machine 2510.

[0289] (Example configuration of ticket vending machine 2510) Next, we will explain an example configuration of the ticket vending machine 2510. Figure 26 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the external appearance of the ticket vending machine 2510. Figure 27 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the ticket vending machine 2510. The configuration shown in Figure 27 will be explained below with reference to Figure 26.

[0290] The ticket vending machine 2510 comprises a CPU 2601, a ROM 2602, a RAM 2603, a display unit 2604, a key operation unit 2605, a card payment unit 2606, a change dispenser 2607, a printing unit 2608, a communication unit 2609, and an audio output unit 2610. These are interconnected via a bus 2620 so that they can communicate with each other.

[0291] The CPU 2601 is a central processing unit that controls the operation of the ticket vending machine 2510 by reading and executing various programs stored in the ROM 2602. ROM2602 is read-only memory that stores various types of information used by the CPU2601, including programs.

[0292] RAM2603 is a read-and-write memory that stores various types of information. For example, RAM2603 stores information read from ROM2602, information obtained from external sources, and sales data and order information generated during processing. RAM2603 also stores language information corresponding to various languages. Furthermore, RAM2603 stores a table equivalent to the language-related table 420 (see Figure 4B) (hereinafter referred to as the "language-related table of the ticket vending machine 2510").

[0293] The display unit 2604 is a touch panel that displays various information and accepts various operations. The display unit 2604 displays various products available for purchase by the customer and accepts requests from the customer, such as whether or not it is for takeout, the language to be displayed, the size of the product, the quantity, and the button to issue a ticket. The display unit 2604 displays the various information in the specified language.

[0294] The card payment unit 2606 is a payment mechanism for various types of cards. These types of cards include credit cards, prepaid electronic money cards, and loyalty cards. The card payment unit 2606 reads information from these cards magnetically or electrically. The read information is used for payment of goods.

[0295] The change dispenser 2607 (cash settlement unit) is a cash settlement mechanism. Specifically, as shown in Figure 26, the change dispenser 2607 includes a banknote slot 2607a, a coin slot 2607b, a change return lever 2607c, a banknote outlet 2607d, and a coin outlet 2607e. The change dispenser 2607 calculates the amount to be inserted into the banknote slot 2607a and the coin slot 2607b, calculates the amount of change which is the difference between the inserted amount and the purchase amount, and when it receives an operation of the change return lever 2607c, it discharges the change from the banknote outlet 2607d or the coin outlet 2607e.

[0296] The printing unit 2608 prints and outputs various media (meal tickets, receipts, invoices, etc.). The communication unit 2609 is an interface for sending and receiving information with the call display 2520, kitchen monitor 2530, kitchen printer 2540, etc. The communication unit 2609 transmits order information to the call display 2520, kitchen monitor 2530, and kitchen printer 2540. The order information includes the name, size, quantity, and order number of the registered product, as well as language information indicating the language if the display unit 2604 has received a specified language.

[0297] The voice output unit 2610 outputs sound. For example, the voice output unit 2610 outputs voice guidance and warning sounds. The voice guidance and warning sounds are related to, for example, product registration and payment. The voice output unit 2610 can output voice guidance in a specified language.

[0298] (Example configuration of call display 2520) Next, we will describe an example configuration of the call display 2520. Figure 28 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the call display 2520. As shown in Figure 28, the call display 2520 comprises a CPU 2801, a memory 2802, a communication unit 2803, a display unit 2804, and an audio output unit 2805. These are connected to each other via a bus 2820 so that they can communicate with one another.

[0299] The CPU 2801 is a central processing unit that controls the operation of the call display 2520 by reading and executing various programs stored in the memory 2802. Memory 2802 stores various types of information used by the CPU 2801, including programs. Memory 2802 also stores information acquired from external sources and information generated during processing. Furthermore, Memory 2802 stores language information corresponding to various languages. Additionally, Memory 2802 stores a table equivalent to the language-related table 420 (see Figure 4B) (hereinafter referred to as the "language-related table for the call display").

[0300] The communication unit 2803 is an interface for sending and receiving information with devices such as the ticket vending machine 2510, the kitchen monitor 2530, and the kitchen printer 2540. For example, the communication unit 2803 receives order information from the ticket vending machine 2510 and information indicating that cooking is complete (hereinafter referred to as "cooking completion information") from the kitchen monitor 2530.

[0301] The display unit 2804 displays various information. Specifically, the display unit 2804 has a cooking area and a cooking completion area, and displays information indicating each area, as well as the order number. The information indicating each area is text information indicating that cooking is in progress (for example, the text information "Cooking in progress") and text information indicating that cooking is complete (for example, the text information "Your food is ready"). In addition, the display unit 2804 can display the text information in a language corresponding to the language information received from the ticket vending machine 2510.

[0302] The display unit 2804 displays the order number corresponding to the item printed on the meal ticket in the "Cooking" area when the item is being prepared. When the preparation of the item corresponding to the order number printed on the meal ticket is complete, specifically when the display unit 2804 receives completion information from the kitchen monitor 2530, it erases the order number corresponding to that item from the "Cooking" area and displays it in the "Cooked" area (switches the display).

[0303] Furthermore, the switching of the display of the order number from the "cooking in progress" area to the "cooking completed" area is not limited to receiving cooking completion information from the kitchen monitor 2530. For example, the call display 2520 may be configured to include an operation unit that accepts operation input from the staff, in which case the display switching may be performed when the operation unit receives an operation indicating the completion of cooking.

[0304] The voice output unit 2805 outputs sound. For example, the voice output unit 2805 outputs the order number by voice. The voice output unit 2805 can also output the order number by voice in a language corresponding to the language information received from the ticket vending machine 2510.

[0305] (Functional configuration of the call display 2520) Next, the functional configuration of the call display 2520 will be described. The call display 2520 comprises a communication unit 2803, an acquisition unit, an output control unit, and a display unit 2804. The acquisition unit and the output control unit are implemented by the CPU 2801. That is, the CPU 2801 implements the functions of each unit by executing a transaction information output program stored in the memory 2802.

[0306] The communication unit 2803 communicates with a ticket vending machine 2510, which is an example of a terminal device. The ticket vending machine 2510 has a language set, and displays the screen in the language indicated by the set language. Specifically, the ticket vending machine 2510 sets a language in response to customer operations. The ticket vending machine 2510 also accepts customer operations.

[0307] The acquisition unit acquires a language information set in the ticket vending machine 2510 through communication with the communication unit 2803. Here, when the ticket issuance button is pressed, the ticket vending machine 2510 transmits a language information to the weighing device 30. In this way, the acquisition unit acquires the language information when a language information is transmitted from the ticket vending machine 2510.

[0308] The output control unit outputs transaction information in the language corresponding to the language information acquired by the acquisition unit. Specifically, if the language information set in the ticket vending machine 2510 indicates Japanese, the output control unit displays the transaction information in Japanese on the display unit 2804. On the other hand, if the language information set in the ticket vending machine 2510 indicates a language other than Japanese, the output control unit displays the transaction information on the display unit 2804 in both Japanese and the other language.

[0309] Transaction information includes delivery information for handing over goods to the customer. Delivery information indicates whether or not the goods can be handed over to the customer, and is, for example, textual information indicating whether the goods corresponding to the order number are being prepared or have been prepared. The output method of transaction information by the output control unit is audio or display.

[0310] When the output control unit displays information on the display unit 2804, it outputs the handover information in a language corresponding to a language set in the ticket vending machine 2510. Specifically, the output control unit outputs transaction information in the same language as the language indicated by the language set in the ticket vending machine 2510. In Embodiment 2, the call display 2520 can be set to the same language as the language set in the ticket vending machine 2510. In other words, the output control unit is guaranteed to output in the same language as the language indicated by the language set in the ticket vending machine 2510.

[0311] Furthermore, the call display 2520 may not be able to output the same language as the language indicated by a single language information set in the ticket vending machine 2510. For example, the ticket vending machine 2510 may support 10 languages, while the call display 2520 may support 3 languages. In other words, the language-related table of the call display 2520 may not contain the same language information as the single language information in question. In this case, the output control unit can output transaction information in another language corresponding to the single language information in question. Specifically, the call display 2520 can store a table equivalent to the corresponding language table 430 (see Figure 4C), refer to this table, and output transaction information in the corresponding language.

[0312] (An example of the process performed by ticket vending machine 2510) Figure 29 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process performed by the ticket vending machine 2510. In Figure 29, the ticket vending machine 2510 displays the menu screen in the selected language (step S2901). In the standby state, the language of the menu screen is Japanese. The ticket vending machine 2510 then determines whether or not it has accepted the language change request (step S2902). If the language change request has been accepted (step S2902: YES), the ticket vending machine 2510 returns to step S2901 and switches the language of the menu screen to the accepted language.

[0313] If the language change is not accepted (step S2902: NO), the ticket vending machine 2510 determines whether or not a product has been selected (step S2903). If no product has been selected (step S2903: NO), the ticket vending machine 2510 returns to step S2910. If a product has been selected (step S2903: YES), the ticket vending machine 2510 displays the selected product on the menu screen (step S2904).

[0314] The ticket vending machine 2510 then determines whether or not the ticket issuance button has been pressed (step S2905). If the ticket issuance button has not been pressed (step S2905: NO), the ticket vending machine 2510 returns to step S2903. If the ticket issuance button has been pressed (step S2905: YES), the ticket vending machine 2510 displays a settlement screen that accepts the selection of payment type and payment (step S2906).

[0315] Then, the ticket vending machine 2510 executes the settlement process using the payment type accepted on the settlement screen (step S2907). Next, the ticket vending machine 2510 determines whether or not a language change has been made on the menu screen display (step S2908). If there is no language change (step S2908: NO), the ticket vending machine 2510 issues a meal ticket in Japanese (step S2909) and proceeds to step S2910. If there is a language change (step S2908: YES), the ticket vending machine 2510 issues a meal ticket with the changed foreign language also written on it (step S2910).

[0316] Then, the ticket vending machine 2510 dispenses the change (step S2911). Next, the ticket vending machine 2510 displays a reminder screen prompting the customer to take out their meal ticket and coins (step S2912). Then, the ticket vending machine 2510 stores the sales data (step S2913) and sends the order information to the call display 2520, the kitchen monitor 2530, and the kitchen printer 2540 (step S2914), and the series of processes is completed. After completing the series of processes, the ticket vending machine 2510 returns to a standby state.

[0317] (An example of transaction information output processing performed by the call display 2520) Figure 30 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the transaction information output processing performed by the call display 2520. For the sake of clarity, the following explanation will only show the process from receiving order information for one product to the completion of its preparation. The process of receiving order information for other products will not be explained.

[0318] In Figure 30, the call display 2520 determines whether or not it has received order information from the ticket vending machine 2510 (step S3001). The call display 2520 waits until it receives order information (step S3001: NO), and once it receives order information (step S3001: YES), the call display 2520 uses the information indicating the order number included in the order information to display the order number in the cooking area (step S3002).

[0319] Then, the call display 2520 determines whether or not the product was ordered in a foreign language (step S3003). Specifically, in step S3003, it determines whether or not the order information includes language information. If the product was not ordered in a foreign language (step S3003: NO), that is, if the product was ordered in Japanese, the call display 2520 proceeds to step S3005.

[0320] On the other hand, if the order was received in a foreign language (step S3003: YES), the call display 2520 displays the foreign language indicated by the language information in addition to the text indicating that the product is being prepared (step S3004). The call display 2520 is not limited to displaying the foreign language indicated by the language information in addition; for example, it may switch the text indicating that the product is being prepared between Japanese and the foreign language at predetermined intervals. Also, if the call display 2520 is only displaying the order number corresponding to the product ordered in a foreign language, it may display the text indicating that the product is being prepared in only that foreign language.

[0321] The call display 2520 then determines whether or not it has received cooking completion information from the kitchen monitor 2530 (step S3005). If cooking completion information is not received (step S3005: NO), the call display 2520 returns to step S3003. If cooking completion information is received (step S3005: YES), the call display 2520 clears the order number from the cooking area (step S3006).

[0322] Then, the call display 2520 displays the order number in the cooking completion area (step S3007). Next, the call display 2520 determines whether or not the order was received in a foreign language (step S3008). If the order was not received in a foreign language (step S3008: NO), that is, if the order was received in Japanese, the call display 2520 proceeds to step S3010.

[0323] On the other hand, if the order was received in a foreign language (step S3008: YES), the call display 2520 displays the foreign language indicated by the language information in addition to the text indicating that cooking is complete (step S3009). In this case, the call display 2520 also outputs a voice message in the foreign language stating that cooking is complete, the order number, and that the customer will come to the counter to pick up the order.

[0324] Furthermore, the call display 2520 is not limited to displaying the foreign language indicated by the language information alongside the Japanese language. For example, it may also switch between displaying the text indicating that cooking is complete in Japanese and the foreign language at predetermined intervals. In addition, if the call display 2520 is only displaying the order number corresponding to the product for which the order was received in a foreign language, it may always display the text indicating that cooking is complete in that foreign language only.

[0325] The call display 2520 then determines whether the customer has come to the counter to pick up the goods and whether the goods have been handed over to the customer (step S3010). When the goods are handed over to the customer, the employee presses a button on the kitchen monitor 2530 that indicates that the goods have been handed over. When the button is pressed, the kitchen monitor 2530 transmits information indicating that the goods have been handed over to the call display 2520. Therefore, the determination shown in step S3010 is whether or not the information indicating that the goods have been handed over has been received.

[0326] If the product has not been delivered to the customer (step S3010: NO), the call display 2520 returns to step S3008. If the product has been delivered to the customer (step S3010: YES), the call display 2520 clears the order number from the completed cooking area (step S3011) and terminates the series of processes.

[0327] (Regarding the information displayed when orders are received in Japanese and in a foreign language.) Next, using Figures 31 to 36, we will explain the information output when an order is received in Japanese and when an order is received in a foreign language. First, we will explain the information output when an order is received in Japanese.

[0328] (An example of a menu screen displayed in Japanese on ticket vending machine 2510) Figure 31 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a menu screen displayed in Japanese on the ticket vending machine 2510. As shown in Figure 31, the menu screen 3100 is displayed on the display unit 2604. The menu screen 3100 includes product selection buttons 3101 (3101a to 3101c), language switching buttons 3102 (3102a to 3102c), deposit amount area 3110, total amount area 3111, receipt issuance button 3120, redo button 3121, and ticket issuance button 3122. Each button and area is displayed in Japanese.

[0329] The product selection button 3101 is a button that accepts the purchase of the displayed product. The language switching button 3102 is a button that accepts the switching of the displayed language. The deposit amount area 3110 is an area that displays the amount of money that the customer has put into the change machine 2607. The total amount area 3111 is an area that shows the total amount of the products accepted by the product selection button 3101.

[0330] The receipt issuance button 3120 is the button that accepts the request for issuance of a receipt. The redo button 3121 is the button that accepts the cancellation of the registration of a product that was selected by the product selection button 3101. The ticket issuance button 3122 is the button that accepts the request for issuance of a meal ticket.

[0331] (An example of a meal ticket issued in Japanese) Figure 32 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a meal ticket issued in Japanese. As shown in Figure 32, the meal ticket 3200 displays the date and time of issuance, order number, product name, purchase amount, and store name in Japanese. The customer waits until the order number written on the meal ticket 3200 is displayed in the cooking completion area of ​​the call display 2520.

[0332] (An example of a call screen displayed in Japanese on the 2520 call display) Figure 33 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a call screen displayed in Japanese on the call display 2520. As shown in Figure 33, the display unit 2804 of the call display 2520 displays a cooking area 3301 and a cooking completion area 3302. The numbers displayed in the cooking area 3301 indicate the order number corresponding to the product being cooked. The numbers displayed in the cooking completion area 3302 indicate the order number corresponding to the product that has been cooked.

[0333] The customer checks the order number displayed on the meal ticket 3200, and when that order number is displayed in the cooking completion area 3302, they go to the counter to pick up their order and the transaction is completed.

[0334] (Information displayed when an order is received in a foreign language) Next, we will explain the information that is output when an order is received in a foreign language. For the purposes of this explanation, we will use Chinese as an example.

[0335] (An example of a menu screen displayed in Chinese on ticket vending machine 2510) Figure 34 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a menu screen displayed in Chinese on the ticket vending machine 2510. The menu screen 3400 shown in Figure 34 is displayed when the language switching button 3102c is pressed. In the menu screen 3400, each button and area is displayed in Chinese. This allows Chinese customers to easily understand the contents of the menu screen 3400.

[0336] (An example of a meal ticket issued in Chinese) Figure 35 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a meal ticket issued in Chinese. As shown in Figure 35, the meal ticket 3500 displays the order number, product name, purchase amount, and store name in both Japanese and Chinese. This allows Chinese customers to easily understand the contents of the meal ticket 3500.

[0337] (An example of a call screen displayed in Chinese on the 2520 call display) Figure 36 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a call screen displayed in Chinese on the call display 2520. As shown in Figure 36, the text displayed in the cooking area 3301 and the cooking completion area 3302 includes a Chinese translation in parentheses. This allows Chinese customers to easily understand whether their ordered items are being cooked or have been completed.

[0338] As described above, the call display 2520 according to Embodiment 2 outputs transaction information in a language corresponding to a language set in the ticket vending machine 2410. Therefore, the language output by the call display 2520 can be automatically switched to the language corresponding to the language set in the ticket vending machine 2410. In other words, even foreign customers who do not understand the language spoken in the store where the shopping system 2500 is installed can have transaction information output in their own language without having to verbally tell the store staff a language they understand or perform any operation themselves to switch to a language they understand. Therefore, it is possible to support foreign customers and others who use a language different from the language used in the store in placing orders effectively.

[0339] Furthermore, the call display 2520 according to Embodiment 2 outputs handover information for handing over goods to the customer in a language corresponding to one of the language information when displaying information on the display unit 2804. Therefore, it is possible to suitably support the handover when handing over goods to foreign customers.

[0340] (Embodiment 3) Next, Embodiment 3 will be described. Embodiment 1 described above described a configuration in which the present invention is applied to a shopping system 1 including a POS terminal 20, a weighing device 30, a mobile terminal 50, and a cloud server Sv. Embodiment 3 describes a configuration in which the present invention is applied to a product handover system including a product locker, a mobile terminal 50, a store order management device, and an order management server. In Embodiment 3, the product locker is an example of a transaction information output device.

[0341] The product delivery system according to Embodiment 3 is a system that allows customers to place orders using a mobile terminal 50 and receive the ordered products from product lockers located in stores or other locations. Here, the products according to Embodiment 3 are products that can be delivered between the store and the customer and that can be stored in the product lockers. Specifically, the products are various items such as food and beverages, electronic devices, daily necessities, general merchandise, and clothing. The products may also be items owned by the customer, such as clothing for dry cleaning or items to be sent for repair (watches, shoes, etc.). The product delivery system according to Embodiment 3 can be applied to various stores that handle these products.

[0342] In the product handover system, the product locker, the store order management device, the mobile terminal 50, and the order management server are all connected to each other via a network so that they can communicate with each other. The product locker and the store order management device are, for example, located in the store. The product locker and the store order management device are computer devices equipped with a CPU, memory, communication unit, display, speaker, etc.

[0343] The product locker has multiple storage compartments, each with a lockable door. It also features a display and a code reader for reading the pickup certificate code (described later). Furthermore, the product locker's memory stores a program for outputting transaction information.

[0344] The mobile terminal 50 is a terminal device owned by the customer. An order application is installed on the mobile terminal 50. The order management server is a server device that manages order details.

[0345] (Regarding the process from ordering to receiving goods in the product delivery system) The mobile terminal 50 displays an order screen and accepts orders from customers. The information accepted includes, for example, for food and beverages, the size of the product, whether or not toppings are included, the payment method, whether it is for eat-in or takeout, and the time of arrival. Once the mobile terminal 50 accepts an order, it sends the order details along with language information to the order management server.

[0346] When the order management server receives order details and language information from the mobile terminal 50, it generates a pickup certificate code (order identification information) to be used when receiving the goods, and sends the pickup certificate code to the mobile terminal 50. When the mobile terminal 50 receives the pickup certificate code from the order management server, it displays the pickup certificate code on the display 509.

[0347] Furthermore, when the order management server generates a pickup certificate code, it transmits the language information and the pickup certificate code, along with the order details received from the mobile terminal 50, to the store order management device. The store order management device stores the language information and the order number indicated by the pickup certificate code, and displays the order details on its screen. The store clerk confirms the order details displayed on the store order management device's screen and prepares the items indicated by the order.

[0348] The store clerk places the items in the product locker before the customer's arrival time. The store order management system stores the language information, order number (pickup certificate code), and the storage slot where the items will be stored, in association with the clerk's actions (or automatically). The store order management system also transmits the language information and arrival time to the product locker.

[0349] The product locker stores information such as language and arrival time in association. On the waiting screen, the product locker displays a message on the display instructing the customer to scan the pickup confirmation code. The language displayed on the product locker's display is primarily Japanese. However, if an online order is received in a foreign language, the product locker will switch the language displayed on the display to the language indicated by the language information stored in association with the arrival time as the arrival time approaches.

[0350] When a customer comes to the store to pick up their goods, they display a pickup certificate code on their mobile device 50. The customer then has the code reader on the product locker read this pickup certificate code. The product locker transmits the order number indicated by the read pickup certificate code to the store order management system. The store order management system identifies the storage compartment containing the goods corresponding to the order number received from the product locker. Furthermore, the store order management system sends an unlocking instruction to the product locker so that the identified storage compartment is unlocked. Upon receiving the unlocking instruction from the store order management system, the product locker unlocks the storage compartment.

[0351] Furthermore, the timing of switching to a foreign language in the product locker is not limited to when the customer's arrival time approaches. For example, the product locker may switch to a foreign language when it reads the pickup certificate code. Specifically, when the product locker reads the pickup certificate code, it may obtain the language information associated with the pickup certificate code from the store order management system and switch to the language indicated by the obtained language information. However, the language information is not limited to being obtained from the store order management system. For example, the product locker may receive the language information and order number (pickup certificate code) from the store order management system in advance and store them. Alternatively, the pickup certificate code may contain language information. In this case, when the product locker reads the pickup certificate code, it should switch to the language indicated by the language information contained in that pickup certificate code.

[0352] Furthermore, if the system is designed to switch to a foreign language when the pickup certificate code is read, the language displayed on the product locker's screen will not be switched to the foreign language at the time of arrival. Therefore, customers who do not understand Japanese at all may not be able to understand the content of the waiting screen displayed on the product locker's screen (such as the message prompting them to read the pickup certificate code). In light of this, if the system is designed to switch to a foreign language when the pickup certificate code is read, the mobile terminal 50 should notify the customer in their preferred language of the content displayed on the waiting screen and how to use the product locker.

[0353] Furthermore, the product lockers are equipped with lamps (indicators) corresponding to each storage compartment. The product lockers illuminate the lamp corresponding to the unlocked storage compartment in a predetermined pattern. This allows the customer to be notified of the storage compartment containing the item to be picked up. The customer then retrieves the item stored in the compartment corresponding to the illuminated lamp. In this way, customers can pick up the items they ordered online from the product lockers.

[0354] Furthermore, the locker doors automatically rotate and open when unlocked, thanks to a mechanism in the hinges and other parts. Therefore, customers can retrieve items without touching the locker doors. This minimizes contact between multiple people, thus maintaining good hygiene.

[0355] (Functional configuration of product lockers) Next, the functional configuration of the product locker will be described. The product locker comprises a communication unit, an acquisition unit, an output control unit, and a display unit. The acquisition unit and the output control unit are implemented by the CPU of the product locker. That is, the CPU implements the functions of each unit by executing a transaction information output program stored in memory. The memory stores tables corresponding to the language-related table 420 (see Figure 4B) and the corresponding language table 430 (see Figure 4C). Note that these tables are not limited to being stored in the product locker, but may also be stored in other devices (for example, a store order management system or an order management server).

[0356] The communications unit communicates with a mobile terminal 50, which is an example of a terminal device. The communications unit communicates indirectly with the mobile terminal 50 via the order management server and the store order management device. However, the communications unit may also communicate directly with the mobile terminal 50, for example, using short-range wireless communication.

[0357] The acquisition unit acquires language information set on the mobile terminal 50 through communication from the communication unit. This language information is transmitted, for example, from the store order management device along with the order details (time of arrival) when an order is received. The acquisition unit acquires the language information received by the communication unit.

[0358] Furthermore, if the pickup certificate code displayed on the mobile terminal 50 includes language information, the language information may be obtained by reading the pickup certificate code. Alternatively, a connection code requesting the mobile terminal 50 to transmit language information may be displayed on the display of the waiting product locker, and when the mobile terminal 50 reads the connection code, the language information may be obtained through direct communication from the mobile terminal 50.

[0359] The output control unit outputs transaction-related information in a language corresponding to the language information acquired by the acquisition unit. Transaction-related information may include, for example, information indicating that the pickup certificate code should be read, information indicating the order details, information indicating whether or not preparation for delivery is complete, information indicating the delivery procedure, and information indicating a greeting message upon completion of the transaction (e.g., "Thank you").

[0360] When an online order is received in a foreign language, the output control unit switches the language displayed on the waiting screen to that foreign language before the customer's arrival time specified in the order. For example, in this case, the output control unit displays both Japanese and the foreign language until the customer has picked up the item. Alternatively, the output control unit may switch between Japanese and the foreign language at intervals of a few seconds until the customer has picked up the item.

[0361] Furthermore, if the communication unit communicates directly with the mobile terminal 50 to receive language information from the mobile terminal 50, the output control unit should, once it has directly obtained the language information from the mobile terminal 50, output in the language indicated by that language information. In addition, the output control unit should terminate output in a foreign language when the pickup of the product is completed.

[0362] If the language information set on the mobile terminal 50 indicates Japanese, the output control unit will display transaction information on the display in Japanese. On the other hand, if the language information set on the mobile terminal 50 indicates a language other than Japanese (a foreign language), the output control unit will display transaction information on the display in both Japanese and the other language. The output method of transaction information output by the output control unit is either audio or display.

[0363] Furthermore, the output control unit outputs transaction information in the same language as the language indicated by the language information set on the mobile terminal 50. Specifically, the output control unit outputs transaction information using the language information stored in the language-related table stored in the product locker. However, there may be cases where it is not possible to output in the same language as the language information indicated by the language information set on the mobile terminal 50. Specifically, there may be cases where the language-related table does not store language information identical to the language information in question. In this case, the output control unit can output transaction information in another language corresponding to the language information in question. Specifically, the output control unit can refer to the corresponding language table and output transaction information in the corresponding language as another language.

[0364] (Regarding cleaning) Furthermore, in cases where a customer drops off items for cleaning or similar services, the mobile terminal 50 should display the type of clothing (such as shirts or sweaters), the type of cleaning (such as dry cleaning or stain removal), the payment method, and the time of arrival on the order screen, and accept the order. Also, in cases where the store hands over the items to the customer for cleaning or similar services, the store clerk will input the information regarding the handover. Specifically, for example, the store order management system will display an input screen for the handover and accept the handover time from the store clerk. Upon receiving the handover time, the store order management system will send the language information stored from the previous order details, along with the information indicating the handover time, to the order management server.

[0365] When the order management server receives information indicating the delivery time, it generates a pickup certificate code (identification information) to be used when the goods are delivered and sends the pickup certificate code to the mobile terminal 50. When the mobile terminal 50 receives the pickup certificate code from the order management server, it displays the pickup certificate code.

[0366] The order management server also sends a pickup certificate code along with language information to the store order management device. The store order management device stores the language information and the order number indicated by the pickup certificate code. The store employee places the goods in the product locker before the customer's pickup time. The store order management device stores the language information, order number, and the storage slot where the goods are stored in association with the employee's actions (or automatically). The store order management device also sends the language information and pickup time to the product locker.

[0367] The product locker stores information such as language and delivery time. When an online order is received in a foreign language, the product locker switches the language displayed on its screen to the language indicated by the stored language information associated with the delivery time as the delivery time approaches. However, customers do not always arrive at the delivery time to pick up their dry cleaning. Therefore, if the display is always in a foreign language, it will be difficult for other customers (Japanese customers) to understand the displayed content. For this reason, the product locker should either display both Japanese and the foreign language until the product has been picked up, or switch between Japanese and the foreign language at intervals of a few seconds.

[0368] When a customer comes to the store to pick up their items, they display a pickup confirmation code on their mobile device 50 and have it read by the code reader on the product locker. This unlocks the storage compartment, allowing them to pick up their items (cleaned clothing).

[0369] As described above, the product locker according to Embodiment 3 outputs transaction information in a language corresponding to a language information set in the mobile terminal 50. Therefore, the language output by the product locker can be automatically switched to a language corresponding to a language information set in the mobile terminal 50. In other words, even foreign customers who do not understand the language spoken in the store where the product handover system is installed can receive transaction information in their own language without having to verbally communicate a language they understand to the store staff or perform any operation themselves to switch to a language they understand. Therefore, it is possible to support foreign customers and others who use a language different from the language used in the store in picking up their goods efficiently.

[0370] (Embodiment 4) Next, Embodiment 4 will be described. Embodiment 1 described above described a configuration in which the present invention is applied to a shopping system 1 including a POS terminal 20, a weighing device 30, a mobile terminal 50, and a cloud server Sv. Embodiment 4 will describe a configuration in which the present invention is applied to a shopping system including an electronic shelf label, a mobile terminal 50, and a product management server. In Embodiment 4, the electronic shelf label is an example of a transaction information output device.

[0371] In the shopping system according to Embodiment 4, the electronic shelf labels, the mobile terminal 50, and the product management server are each connected to each other via a network so as to be able to communicate. The electronic shelf labels are, for example, placed on product shelves in a store. The electronic shelf labels are display devices equipped with a communication unit and a display.

[0372] In Embodiment 4, the product management server manages sales, inventory status, price, etc., for each product in the store. The electronic shelf labels display product sales information. Product sales information includes various information such as product name, unit price, price (tax-inclusive and tax-exclusive prices), and sale items. Note that product sales information is an example of transaction-related information.

[0373] The product management server controls the content displayed on the electronic shelf labels. For example, if there are items on a time sale, the product management server controls the price displayed on the corresponding electronic shelf label to be lowered when the time sale starts, and then controls the price displayed on the electronic shelf label to be returned to the normal price when the time sale ends.

[0374] The electronic shelf label also includes a communication unit, an acquisition unit, an output control unit, and a display unit. The electronic shelf label can communicate with the mobile terminal 50 using Near Field Communication (NFC) via the functions of the communication unit. The electronic shelf label displays a connection code (2D code) for connecting with the mobile terminal 50 via the functions of the output control unit and the display unit. The connection code contains information indicating that language information should be transmitted to the electronic shelf label. Therefore, when a customer reads the connection code with the camera 507 of the mobile terminal 50, language information is transmitted from the mobile terminal 50 to the electronic shelf label.

[0375] When an electronic shelf label receives (acquires) language information from a mobile terminal 50, it displays (outputs) product sales information in the language corresponding to the language information. Specifically, if the language information set on the mobile terminal 50 indicates Japanese, the electronic shelf label displays the product sales information in Japanese. On the other hand, if the language information set on the mobile terminal 50 indicates a language other than Japanese (a foreign language), the electronic shelf label displays the product sales information in that language. The electronic shelf label may also display the product sales information in the corresponding language. Furthermore, if the language information set on the mobile terminal 50 indicates a foreign language, the electronic shelf label may display the product sales information in both Japanese and the foreign language, or it may switch between Japanese and the foreign language at intervals of a few seconds.

[0376] Furthermore, the electronic shelf labels may display product sales information converted to a unit of weight corresponding to one of the language information. Alternatively, the electronic shelf labels may display product sales information converted to a currency corresponding to one of the language information.

[0377] As described above, the electronic shelf label according to Embodiment 4 displays product sales information in a language corresponding to a language information set on the mobile terminal 50. Therefore, the language displayed by the electronic shelf label can be automatically switched to the language corresponding to the language information set on the mobile terminal 50. In other words, even foreign customers who do not understand the language spoken in the store where the shopping system according to Embodiment 4 is installed can have the electronic shelf label display product sales information in their language without having to verbally tell the store staff a language they understand or perform any operation themselves to switch to a language they understand. Therefore, even foreign customers who use a language different from the language used in the store can easily understand the product sales information displayed on the electronic shelf label.

[0378] The following is a summary of the embodiments. [Technical field] The present invention relates to a transaction information output device, a transaction information output method, a transaction information output system, and a program. [Background technology] In recent years, so-called self-checkout systems, where customers register their items and pay for them themselves, have become widespread. For example, there are self-checkout systems that use registration terminals, such as mobile devices, owned by the customer to register and pay for their items. Self-checkout systems utilize multiple devices, including mobile terminals, weighing devices, and payment devices. Transaction information is displayed on the mobile terminal. This information includes the weighing results of items measured by the weighing device and registration information indicating the registered items. In addition to the mobile terminal, transaction information is also displayed on other devices installed in the store, such as the weighing device and payment device. Here, mobile devices can display various information in the language set by the customer. On the other hand, devices other than mobile devices display various information in the language used by most customers who visit the store (their own language). Therefore, customers who are not fluent in the language used in the store, such as foreigners, may not be able to easily understand the content displayed on devices other than mobile devices. As a related technology, a POS system is known in which a store clerk registers products and the customer makes a payment, and the payment register displays product information in the language selected at the registration register (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below). [Prior art document] [Patent] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2014-142922 [Overview of the prefecture] [Problems the invention aims to solve] However, with conventional technology, it can be difficult for customers, such as foreigners, who do not understand the language spoken in stores where self-checkout systems are installed, to verbally communicate with store staff in a language they understand, or even to switch to a language they understand themselves. As a result, there has been a problem in that customers, such as foreigners, who speak a language different from the one used in the store, may not be able to conduct transactions effectively using self-checkout systems. This invention has been made in view of these circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a technology that can help foreign customers and others to conduct transactions favorably. [Means for solving the problem] To solve the above-mentioned problems, a transaction information output device according to one aspect of the present invention is a transaction information output device characterized by comprising: communication means for communicating with a terminal device that accepts customer operations by displaying a screen in the language indicated by a set language information; acquisition means for acquiring the language information through the communication of the communication means; and output control means capable of outputting transaction-related information in the language corresponding to the language information acquired by the acquisition means. According to the above configuration, the language used by the transaction information output device can be automatically switched to a language corresponding to one of the language settings configured in the terminal device. As a result, even foreign customers who do not understand the language spoken in the store where the transaction information output system is installed can receive transaction information in their own language without having to verbally communicate a language they understand to the store staff or perform any operations themselves to switch to a language they understand. Therefore, it is possible to support foreign customers and others who speak a language different from the language used in the store in making a pleasant shopping experience. Furthermore, the transaction information output device may further include weighing means for weighing goods, the transaction information may include weighing information relating to weighing by the weighing means, and the output control means may output the weighing information in a language corresponding to the one language information when weighing is performed by the weighing means. According to the above configuration, when a foreign customer weighs the goods to be weighed using the transaction information output device, the weighing process can be suitably supported. Furthermore, in the above-mentioned transaction information output device, the weighing information includes information on the weight of the goods weighed by the weighing means, and the output control means may convert the weight information into a unit of weight corresponding to the first language information and output it. With the above configuration, transaction information can be output in the units of weight used by foreign customers in their home countries. Therefore, when foreign customers weigh items using the transaction information output device, they can easily determine the weight of the items being weighed. Furthermore, in the above-mentioned transaction information output device, the transaction information may include information on the purchase price of the goods, and the output control means may convert the purchase price information into a currency corresponding to the first language information and output it. According to the above configuration, transaction information can be output in the currency used by foreign customers in their home countries. Therefore, the monetary value of goods purchased by foreign customers can be easily understood. Furthermore, the transaction information output device may further include a label issuing unit that issues labels, and the output control means may cause the label issuing unit to issue labels in the language corresponding to the first language information. According to the above configuration, foreign customers can easily understand the information written on the label. Furthermore, the transaction information output device may further include a display means for displaying information, wherein the transaction information includes delivery information for delivering goods to a customer, and the output control means may output the delivery information in a language corresponding to the one language information when displaying the information on the display means. According to the above configuration, when handing over goods to foreign customers, the handover process can be effectively supported. Furthermore, the transaction information output device may further include a settlement means for performing settlement by customer operation, wherein the transaction information includes registration information used for settlement by the settlement means, and the output control means may output the registration information in a language corresponding to the one language information when settlement is performed by the settlement means. According to the above configuration, when a foreign customer makes a payment, the payment process can be appropriately assisted. Furthermore, in the transaction information output device described above, the first language information is associated with customer identification information that identifies a customer, and the acquisition means may acquire the customer identification information and the first language information associated with the acquired customer identification information. According to the above configuration, transaction information can be output in the language indicated by the language information identified from member information, etc. Therefore, when foreign customers who use different languages ​​make a purchase, their shopping can be appropriately supported. Furthermore, in the above-mentioned transaction information output device, the output control means may output transaction information in the same language as the language indicated by the first language information, or in another language corresponding to the first language information. According to the above configuration, even if the same language as the language indicated by one piece of language information is not available, transaction information can be output in another language that the customer may understand. This makes it possible to assist foreign customers with their shopping. To solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention, a transaction information output method, is a transaction information output method characterized in that a computer used in a transaction information output device communicates with a terminal device that accepts customer operations by displaying a screen in the language indicated by a set language information; an acquisition step of acquiring the language information through the communication in the communication step; and an output control step of outputting transaction information in the language corresponding to the language information acquired in the acquisition step. To solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a transaction information output system which includes a terminal device that displays a screen in a set language and accepts customer operations, and a transaction information output device that communicates with the terminal device, wherein the transaction information output device comprises: communication means for communicating with the terminal device, acquisition means for acquiring the one language information through the communication of the communication means, and output control means capable of outputting transaction information in a language corresponding to the one language information acquired by the acquisition means. To solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer used in a transaction information output device to function as: a communication means that communicates with a terminal device that displays a screen in the language indicated by a set language information and accepts customer operations; an acquisition means that acquires the language information through the communication of the communication means; and an output control means that can output transaction-related information in the language corresponding to the language information acquired by the acquisition means.

[0379] In the above description, the acquisition unit, output control unit, weighing unit, and settlement unit were described as being configured in the POS terminal 20 and weighing device 30. These functional units may be provided in other computer devices. For example, these functional units may be provided in the store controller 10, the monitoring terminal 11, or other computer devices. Furthermore, the computer devices that provide these functional units are not limited to one; there may be multiple devices. For example, some of these functional units may be provided in one computer device, while other functional units may be provided in other computer devices. Similarly, the acquisition unit and output control unit of the call display 2520 may also be provided in other computer devices. Likewise, the functional units provided in the call display 2520, product locker, and electronic shelf labels may also be provided in other devices.

[0380] Furthermore, the programs for implementing the shopping system 1, shopping system 2500, product handover system, shopping system of embodiment 4, POS terminal 20, weighing device 30, call display 2520, product locker, and electronic shelf label described above may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the programs may be loaded into a computer system and executed. Here, "computer system" includes hardware such as the OS and peripheral devices. Furthermore, "computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs, CD-ROMs, and storage devices such as hard disks built into a computer system. Moreover, "computer-readable recording medium" also includes volatile memory (RAM) inside a computer system that acts as a server or client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line, which holds the program for a certain period of time. Furthermore, the above programs may be transmitted from the computer system that stores the program in a storage device, etc., to another computer system via a transmission medium or by transmission waves in the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" used to transmit the program refers to a medium that has the function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) like the Internet or a communication line (communication line) like a telephone line. Furthermore, the program described above may be intended to implement only a part of the functions mentioned above. Moreover, it may be a so-called differential file (differential program) that can implement the aforementioned functions in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system. [Explanation of symbols]

[0381] Sv...Cloud Server 1,2500... Shopping System 10…Store Controller 11… Surveillance terminal 20…POS terminals 30...Measuring device 50… Mobile devices 201, 301, 2801…CPU 205…Customer side display section 215, 305, 2803… Communications Department 306, 2804...Display section 420...Language-related tables 430...Supported Language Table 2510... Ticket vending machine 2520... Call display

Claims

1. A system including a portable terminal for registering products through customer operation, a weighing device for weighing variable-weight products, and a payment device for settling payments through customer operation, The aforementioned weighing device is A communication means for communicating with the aforementioned mobile terminal, A weighing means that, in response to the aforementioned communication, acquires language information indicating a language set on the mobile terminal and weighs the variable-weight product, A first display control means that switches to the language indicated by the language information and displays the weighing result of the variable weight product, An output control means that causes a label indicating the measurement result to be issued in the language indicated by the language information and a predetermined language set in advance, Equipped with, The settlement device is, A receiving means that receives the registration information and language information from a server device that manages registration information indicating products registered by the aforementioned mobile terminal, A second display control means that switches to the first language indicated by the language information received by the receiving means and displays the registration information, A settlement means that settles the payment based on the aforementioned registration information, A system characterized by comprising the following features.

2. A program for causing the weighing device to function as a first computer and the payment device to function as a second computer in a system including a portable mobile terminal for registering products by customer operation, a weighing device for weighing variable-weight products, and a payment device for settling payments by customer operation, The first computer, A portable mobile terminal that registers products based on customer operations, and a communication means that communicates with the terminal. A weighing means that, in response to the aforementioned communication, acquires language information indicating a language set on the mobile terminal and weighs the variable-weight product. A first display control means that switches to the language indicated by the language information and displays the weighing result of the variable weight product, Output control means that causes a label indicating the measurement result to be issued in the language indicated by the language information and a predetermined language set in advance. To make it function as, The second computer described above, A receiving means that receives the registration information and the language information from a server device that manages registration information indicating products registered by the aforementioned mobile terminal. A second display control means that switches to the first language indicated by the language information received by the receiving means and displays the registration information. A settlement means that performs settlement based on the aforementioned registration information, A program characterized by being designed to function as such.

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