Accounting processing device and program

Abstract

To provide an accounting processor that enables easy change to a state in accordance with a semi-self-service type or a full-self-service type.SOLUTION: An accounting processor in an embodiment includes registration screen display means, receiving means, accounting screen display means, and accounting processing means. When an input operation is accepted during display of a standby screen, the registration screen display means displays a commodity registration screen for accepting registration of first information related to a commodity as a purchase target . The receiving means receives second information related to a transaction of the commodity from a registration machine. When the second information is received, the accounting screen display means displays an accounting screen for accounting processing for the commodity based on the second information. The accounting processing means performs accounting processing for the commodity based on the first information accepted through the commodity registration screen or the second information received by the receiving means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, in retail stores such as supermarkets, an accounting system called the semi-self service method or the full-self service method has attracted attention from the viewpoints of labor reduction and efficiency improvement.

[0003] The semi-self service accounting system separates a registration machine for registering the customer's purchased goods and an accounting machine for receiving payment for the purchased goods and settling the sales transaction with the customer. Then, a store employee operates the registration machine, and the customer operates the accounting machine.

[0004] On the other hand, the full-self service accounting system has both functions of a registration machine for registering the customer's purchased goods and an accounting machine for receiving payment for the purchased goods and settling the sales transaction with the customer, and the customer operates both the registration of the purchased goods and the payment for the purchased goods.

[0005] Conventionally, an accounting system that can operate by switching between the semi-self service method and the full-self service method has been considered. However, in order to switch the operation, special operations are required, such as an operation by a store employee to switch, an operation to change the setting of the operation method and restart the device, etc. Therefore, for example, it is desired to be able to easily change to a state corresponding to the semi-self service method or the full-self service method according to the congestion situation of the store.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] The problem that the embodiments of the present invention aim to solve is to provide an accounting processing device and program that can be easily changed to a state corresponding to a semi-self-service or fully self-service system. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The accounting processing device in this embodiment includes a registration screen display means, a receiving means, an accounting screen display means, and an accounting processing means. When the registration screen display means receives an input operation while the standby screen is being displayed, it displays a product registration screen for receiving registration of first information relating to the product to be purchased. The receiving means receives second information relating to the settlement of the transaction of the product registered by the registration machine from the registration machine. When the accounting screen display means receives the second information, it displays an accounting screen for accounting processing of the product based on the second information. The accounting processing means performs accounting processing for the product based on the first information received through the product registration screen or the second information received by the receiving means. The registration screen display means displays a screen change button on the product registration screen that instructs the user to switch between a setting that displays a button to accept instructions to switch the display to the product registration screen from the checkout screen and a setting that does not display a button. When an operation is received on the screen change button displayed on the product registration screen, the checkout screen display means refers to the screen setting data set in the setting file, determines whether the button is set to be displayed or not, and changes the setting content indicated by the screen setting data to switch between a first checkout screen that includes the button and a second checkout screen that does not include the button. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of the accounting system according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the registered device. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the accounting processing unit. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the server. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of information processing performed by the processor of the accounting processing unit according to the accounting program. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of information processing performed by the processor of the accounting processing unit according to the accounting program. [Figure 7]Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the information processing performed by the registration machine's processor according to the registration program. [Figure 8A] Figure 8A is a flowchart showing the main steps of the information processing performed by the registration machine's processor according to the registration program. [Figure 8B] Figure 8B is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the information processing performed by the registration machine's processor according to the registration program. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of a display screen on the touch panel of an accounting processing device. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an example of a display screen on the touch panel of an accounting processing device. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows an example of a display screen on the touch panel of an accounting processing device. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows an example of a display screen on the touch panel of an accounting processing device. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows an example of a display screen on the touch panel of an accounting processing device. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows an example of a display screen on the touch panel of an accounting processing device. [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows an example of a display screen on the touch panel of an accounting processing device. [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows an example of a display screen on the touch panel of an accounting processing device. [Figure 17] Figure 17 shows an example of a display screen on the touch panel of an accounting processing device. [Figure 18] Figure 18 shows an example of the display screen on the touch panel of a registration device. [Figure 19] Figure 19 shows an example of the display screen on the touch panel of the registration device. [Figure 20] Figure 20 shows an example of the display screen on the touch panel of the registration device. [Figure 21]Figure 21 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the registration machine. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the registration machine. [Figure 23] Figure 23 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the registration machine. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the registration machine. [Figure 25] Figure 25 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the accounting processing device. [Figure 26] Figure 26 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the accounting processing device. [Figure 27] Figure 27 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the accounting processing device. [Figure 28] Figure 28 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the accounting processing device. [Figure 29] Figure 29 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the accounting processing device. [Figure 30] Figure 30 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the accounting processing device. [Figure 31] Figure 31 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the accounting processing device. [Figure 32] Figure 32 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the accounting processing device. [Figure 33] Figure 33 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the accounting processing device. [Figure 34] Figure 34 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the accounting processing device.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] The following describes, with reference to drawings, an embodiment of an accounting processing device that can be easily changed to a semi-self-service or fully self-service configuration in the accounting system.

[0011] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of the accounting system 10 according to this embodiment. The accounting system 10 includes a registration machine 11, an accounting processing device 12, a server 13, and a network 14 connecting them. The type of network 14 is not particularly limited, but generally a wired or wireless LAN (local area network) is used.

[0012] The registration machine 11 is operated by a store employee 21, who plays the role of a checker, when the accounting system 10 is operating in a semi-self-service manner, and the customer's purchased items are registered. The accounting processing device 12 is operated by the customer 22 who purchases goods at the store, regardless of whether the accounting system 10 is operating in a semi-self-service or fully self-service manner. The accounting processing device 12 has the functions of both a registration machine that registers the customer's purchased items and an accounting machine that receives payment for the purchased items and settles the sales transaction with the customer. When the accounting system 10 is operating in a semi-self-service manner, the accounting processing device 12 is operated as an accounting machine (hybrid POS (Point of Sales) device) that receives payment for the purchased items registered by the registration machine 11 and settles the sales transaction with the customer. Furthermore, when the accounting system 10 is operating in a fully self-service manner, the accounting processing device 12 is operated as a fully self-service POS device that performs both the registration of purchased items and the payment for purchased items at the customer's discretion.

[0013] A customer 22 who operates the accounting processing device 12 to settle a sales transaction may be referred to as a settler, buyer, etc. However, the transaction is not limited to payment for purchased goods. For example, payment for services is also a form of transaction.

[0014] In Figure 1, the registration machine 11 is attached to the work table 23. The work table 23 has a rectangular tabletop. Multiple work tables 23 are arranged so that the longitudinal directions of their tabletops are approximately parallel, forming a passage for customers 22, a so-called checkout lane.

[0015] A registration machine 11 and an accounting processing unit 12 are located in each checkout lane. One registration machine 11 and multiple accounting processing units 12 are located in each checkout lane. When the accounting system 10 operates in a semi-self-service manner, the registration machine 11 transmits transaction information to the accounting processing unit 12 located in the same checkout lane. The registration machine 11 may transmit transaction information to the accounting processing unit 12 via the server 13, or it may transmit it to the accounting processing unit 12 without going through the server 13. Furthermore, the registration machine 11 can transmit transaction information not only to accounting processing units 12 located in the same checkout lane, but also to accounting processing units 12 located in adjacent checkout lanes.

[0016] Incidentally, Figure 1 shows an example in which one registration machine 11 and two accounting processing machines 12 are arranged for each of the two checkout lanes. Specifically, one registration machine 11(111) with registration machine ID "111" and two accounting processing machines 12(121) and 12(122) with accounting machine IDs "121" and "122" are arranged in one checkout lane, while one registration machine 11(112) with registration machine ID "112" and two accounting processing machines 12(123) and 12(124) with accounting machine IDs "123" and "124" are arranged in the other checkout lane. In this arrangement, in this embodiment, one registration machine 11(111) is capable of transmitting transaction information to the accounting processing machines 12(121) and 12(122) in the same checkout lane, as well as to the accounting processing machine 12(123) in the adjacent checkout lane. Similarly, the other registration machine 11(112) is capable of transmitting transaction information to the accounting processing devices 12(123) and 12(124) in the same checkout lane, as well as to the accounting processing device 12(122) in the adjacent checkout lane.

[0017] The registration machine ID is a unique identifier set for each registration machine 11 to identify each machine individually. The accounting machine ID is a unique identifier set for each accounting processing device 12 to identify each accounting processing device 12 individually.

[0018] On the other hand, if the store clerk 21 does not register the purchased items with the registration machine 11 and no transaction information is transmitted to the payment processing unit 12, the payment processing unit 12 can perform both the registration of the purchased items and the payment of the purchased items at the customer's request 22. In other words, it operates as a fully self-service POS system.

[0019] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the registration device 11. The registration device 11 includes a processor 31, main memory 32, auxiliary storage device 33, clock 34, communication interface 35, keyboard 36, scanner 37, touch panel 38, customer display 39, printer 40, card reader 41, automatic change dispenser 42, and system transmission path 43, etc. The system transmission path 43 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission path 43 connects the processor 31 to each other part directly or via signal input / output circuits and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0020] The registration device 11 constitutes a computer by connecting the processor 31, main memory 32, auxiliary storage device 33, clock 34, and communication interface 35 via a system transmission path 43. The registration device 11 then connects devices such as a keyboard 36, scanner 37, touch panel 38, customer display 39, printer 40, and card reader 41 to this computer via the system transmission path 43.

[0021] The processor 31 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 31 controls each part to realize various functions as a registration device 11 according to the operating system or application program. Preferably, the processor 31 is a multi-core or multi-threaded type capable of executing multiple processes in parallel. The processor 31 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0022] Main memory 32 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 32 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area of ​​main memory 32, the operating system or application programs are stored. Main memory 32 may also store data necessary for the processor 31 to perform processing to control each part in the non-volatile or volatile memory area. Main memory 32 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as needed by the processor 31. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0023] The auxiliary storage device 33 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. For example, an EEPROM (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or an SSD (Solid State Drive) can be the auxiliary storage device 33. The auxiliary storage device 33 stores data used by the processor 31 in performing various processes, data created by the processing performed by the processor 31, etc. The auxiliary storage device 33 may also store the application program described above.

[0024] Clock 34 measures the date and time. Processor 31 processes the date and time measured by clock 34 as the current date and time.

[0025] The communication interface 35 communicates data with the server 13 and accounting processing device 12, which are connected via the network 14. The communication interface 35 can also communicate data with other registration devices 11, which are connected via the network 14.

[0026] The keyboard 36 is an input device equipped with various keys necessary for entering data related to the products purchased by the customer.

[0027] The scanner 37 is an input device for reading code symbols such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes. The scanner 37 may be a type that reads code symbols by scanning with a laser beam, or a type that reads code symbols from an image captured by an imaging device.

[0028] The touch panel 38 is a display device capable of displaying display elements such as characters, symbols, and images on the display. The touch panel 38 is also an input device that detects the touch operation position on the display using a sensor and processes the display element at that position as input. The touch panel 38 displays information to the store clerk who is the operator of the registration machine 11 and accepts operation input from the store clerk.

[0029] The customer display 39 is a display device provided to show information such as the product name and price of products registered in the registration machine 11 to the customer 22.

[0030] The printer 40 is an output device that prints data related to purchase receipts, credit card slips, etc., onto receipt paper. The receipt paper on which various data has been printed by the printer 40 is cut by a cutter and issued from the receipt issuing slot. The printer 40 can be implemented as, for example, a thermal printer or a dot matrix printer.

[0031] The card reader 41 is an input device that reads data recorded on a card medium such as a credit card, electronic money card, or point card. If the card medium is a magnetic card, the card reader 41 is a magnetic card reader. If the card medium is an IC card, the card reader 41 is an IC card reader. The registration device 11 may be equipped with either a magnetic card reader or an IC card reader as the card reader 41, or it may be equipped with both. The card reader 41 may also be a card reader / writer that has a function to write data to the card.

[0032] The automatic change dispenser 42 is a device for handling cash. The automatic change dispenser 42 has a banknote slot, a banknote outlet, a coin slot, and a coin outlet. The automatic change dispenser 42 processes banknotes inserted into the banknote slot. The automatic change dispenser 42 discharges banknotes as change from the banknote outlet. The automatic change dispenser 42 accepts and processes coins inserted into the coin slot. The automatic change dispenser 42 discharges coins as change from the coin outlet.

[0033] For the hardware of such a registration device 11, an existing POS terminal can be used, for example. Note that the devices connected to the registration device 11 are not limited to the keyboard 36, scanner 37, touch panel 38, customer display 39, printer 40, and card reader 41 shown in Figure 2. Additional devices may be added or some devices omitted depending on the application of the registration device 11.

[0034] The registration device 11 uses a portion of the volatile memory area of ​​its main memory 32 as the area for the status table 321. The status table 321 is an area for storing information indicating the status of multiple accounting processing devices 12 connected to the registration device 11.

[0035] The status table 321 stores the status in association with the accounting machine ID. The status is information indicating the state of the accounting processing unit 12 identified by the corresponding accounting machine ID. Specifically, the status is set as follows: "0" indicates that the accounting processing unit 12 is in a state where it can receive transaction-related information, "1" indicates that the accounting processing unit 12 is in the process of accounting, and "2" indicates that the accounting processing unit 12 is waiting after settlement is completed. In addition, the status of an accounting processing unit 12 that is not the target of sending transaction-related information is set to "9". Therefore, Figure 4 shows the status table 321 of the registration machine 11 (111) with registration machine ID "111". In the status table 321 of the registration machine 11 (112) with registration machine ID "112", the status for the accounting processing unit 12 (121) with accounting machine ID "121" is "9", and the status for other accounting processing units 12 is "0", "1", or "2".

[0036] The registration machine 11 implements a registration program that enables the processor 31 to perform the function of registering the customer's purchased items through the operation of the store clerk 21 and transmitting the information to the information accounting processing device 12 related to the purchased items. The registration program is a type of application software and is installed in the auxiliary storage device 33. The registration program may also be installed in the main memory 32. The method of installing the registration program in the main memory 32 or the auxiliary storage device 33 is not particularly limited. The accounting program can be recorded on a removable recording medium, or the registration program can be distributed via communication over a network and installed in the main memory 32 or the auxiliary storage device 33. The recording medium can be of any form as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device, such as an SD memory card or USB memory.

[0037] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the accounting processing device 12. The accounting processing device 12 includes a processor 61, main memory 62, auxiliary storage device 63, clock 64, communication interface 65, automatic change dispenser 66, touch panel 67, card reader 68, scanner 69, printer 70, and system transmission line 71, etc. The system transmission line 71 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission line 71 connects the processor 61 and the other parts directly or via signal input / output circuits, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0038] The accounting processing unit 12 is configured as a computer by connecting a processor 61, main memory 62, auxiliary storage device 63, clock 64, and communication interface 65 via a system transmission path 71. The accounting processing unit 12 then connects devices such as an automatic change dispenser 66, touch panel 67, card reader 68, scanner 69, and printer 70 to this computer via the system transmission path 71.

[0039] The processor 61 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 61 controls each part to realize various functions as an accounting processing device 12 according to the operating system or application program. Preferably, the processor 61 is a multi-core or multi-threaded type capable of executing multiple processes in parallel. The processor 61 is, for example, a CPU.

[0040] Main memory 62 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 62 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area, main memory 62 stores the operating system or application programs. Main memory 62 may also store data necessary for the processor 61 to perform processing to control each part in the non-volatile or volatile memory area. Main memory 62 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processor 61. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM.

[0041] The auxiliary storage device 63 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. For example, an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD could be the auxiliary storage device 63. The auxiliary storage device 63 stores data used by the processor 61 in performing various processes, data created by the processing performed by the processor 61, etc. The auxiliary storage device 63 may also store the application program described above.

[0042] Furthermore, the auxiliary storage device 63 stores a configuration file 631 containing screen setting data that indicates whether to display a first accounting screen (for example, the payment method selection screen described later) that includes a button (for example, the "back" button described later) for receiving instructions to switch the display to the product registration screen, or a second accounting screen that does not include a button ("back" button). The first accounting screen and the second accounting screen are switched according to the "show / hide" setting of the "back" button indicated by the screen setting data.

[0043] The screen setting data may be pre-configured, for example, through a setting process performed by an administrator, or it can be changed during the operation of the accounting processing device 12, for example, by operating a screen change button provided on the product registration screen to receive instructions to switch to the accounting screen.

[0044] Clock 64 measures the date and time. Processor 61 processes the date and time measured by clock 64 as the current date and time.

[0045] The communication interface 65 communicates data with the server 13 or registration device 11 connected via the network 14. The communication interface 65 can also communicate data with other accounting processing devices 12 connected via the network 14.

[0046] The automatic change dispenser 66 is a device for handling cash. The automatic change dispenser 66 has a banknote input slot, a banknote output slot, a coin input slot, and a coin output slot. The automatic change dispenser 66 processes banknotes inserted into the banknote input slot. The automatic change dispenser 66 discharges banknotes as change from the banknote output slot. The automatic change dispenser 66 accepts and processes coins inserted into the coin input slot. The automatic change dispenser 66 discharges coins as change from the coin output slot.

[0047] The touch panel 67 is a display device capable of displaying display elements such as characters, symbols, and images (including buttons) on a display. The touch panel 67 is also an input device that uses a sensor to detect the position of a touch operation on the display and processes the display element at that position as input. The touch panel 67 displays information to the customer, who is the operator of the accounting processing device 12, and accepts operation input from that customer.

[0048] The card reader 68 is an input device that reads data recorded on a card medium such as a credit card, electronic money card, or point card. If the card medium is a magnetic card, the card reader 68 is a magnetic card reader. If the card medium is an IC card, the card reader 68 is an IC card reader. The accounting processing device 12 may be equipped with either a magnetic card reader or an IC card reader as the card reader 68, or it may be equipped with both. The card reader 68 may also be a card reader / writer that has a function to write data to a card.

[0049] The scanner 69 is an input device for reading code symbols such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes. The scanner 69 may be of a type that reads code symbols by scanning with a laser beam, or it may be of a type that reads code symbols from an image captured by an imaging device.

[0050] The printer 70 is an output device that prints data related to purchase receipts, credit card slips, etc., onto receipt paper. The receipt paper printed with various data by the printer 70 is cut by a cutter and issued from the receipt issuing slot. The printer 70 can be implemented as, for example, a thermal printer or a dot matrix printer.

[0051] For the hardware of such an accounting processing device 12, for example, an existing fully self-service POS terminal can be used. The devices connected to the accounting processing device 12 are not limited to the automatic change dispenser 66, touch panel 67, card reader 68, scanner 69, and printer 70 shown in Figure 3. Additional devices may be added or some devices omitted depending on the application of the accounting processing device 12.

[0052] The accounting processing unit 12 implements an accounting program that enables the processor 61 to perform both the functions of a registration machine for registering customer purchases and an accounting machine for settling sales transactions with customers after receiving payment for the purchased goods. The accounting program is a type of application software and is installed in the auxiliary storage device 63. The accounting program may also be installed in the main memory 62. The method of installing the accounting program in the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63 is not particularly limited. The accounting program can be installed in the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63 by recording it on a removable recording medium or by distributing the accounting program via communication over a network. The recording medium can take any form as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device, such as an SD memory card or USB memory.

[0053] The registration device 11 transmits transaction information for the registered product to the accounting processing device 12, which is in a state where it can receive transaction information, that is, the accounting processing device 12 with a status of "0". When the accounting processing device 12 receives the transaction information for the product, it operates as a semi-self-service accounting machine (hybrid POS device) and transmits a data signal to the registration device 11 indicating that it has started accounting. In this case, the accounting processing device 12 performs accounting processing based on the transaction information for the product received from the registration device 11.

[0054] Furthermore, when the accounting processing unit 12 has not received transaction information for registered products from the registration unit 11, and receives input from the customer 22 while the standby screen is displayed, it operates as a fully self-service POS device and sends a data signal to the registration unit 11 to indicate that it has started accounting. In this case, the accounting processing unit 12 performs accounting based on the information about the products to be purchased, which is received through the customer 22's operation via the product registration screen.

[0055] After completing the accounting process, the accounting processing device 12 transmits an accounting completion response data signal to the registration device 11.

[0056] When the registration device 11 receives a data signal indicating the start of accounting from the accounting processing device 12, it changes the status value indicating the state of the accounting processing device 12 from "0" to "1". Similarly, when the registration device 11 receives a data signal indicating the end of accounting from the accounting processing device 12, it changes the status value indicating the state of the accounting processing device 12 from "1" to "0". An accounting processing device 12 whose status value has been changed to "0" can become a destination for transaction-related information in the registration device 11.

[0057] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of server 13. Server 13 includes a processor 81, main memory 82, auxiliary storage device 83, clock 84, communication interface 85, touch panel 87, keyboard 88, printer 70, and system transmission path 91, etc. The system transmission path 71 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission path 91 connects the processor 81 to the other parts directly or via signal input / output circuits and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0058] Server 13 constitutes a computer by connecting a processor 81, main memory 82, auxiliary storage device 83, clock 84, and communication interface 85 via a system transmission path 71. Server 13 then connects devices such as a touch panel 87, keyboard 88, and printer 70 to the computer via the system transmission path 71.

[0059] The processor 81 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 81 controls each part in order to realize various functions as a server 13 according to the operating system or application program. The processor 81 is preferably a multi-core or multi-threaded type capable of executing multiple processes in parallel. The processor 81 is, for example, a CPU.

[0060] Main memory 82 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 82 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area, main memory 82 stores the operating system or application programs. Main memory 82 may also store data necessary for the processor 81 to perform processing to control each part in the non-volatile or volatile memory area. Main memory 82 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processor 81. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM.

[0061] The auxiliary storage device 83 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. For example, an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD could be the auxiliary storage device 83. The auxiliary storage device 83 stores data used by the processor 81 in performing various processes, data created by the processing performed by the processor 81, etc. The auxiliary storage device 83 may also store the application program described above.

[0062] Furthermore, the auxiliary storage device 83 stores a configuration file 15 containing screen setting data for multiple accounting processing units 12 connected via the network 14. The configuration file (screen setting data) stored in the accounting processing unit 12 may be set individually by an employee 21 or the like (for example, by an operation on a screen change button provided on the product registration screen), or it may be set collectively for multiple accounting processing units 12 by an administrator or the like through a setting process on the server 13. The configuration file set in the accounting processing unit 12 includes screen setting data for the accounting processing unit 12. The screen setting data set on the server 13 is sent to the CC (Carbon Copy) accounting processing unit 12 and stored as a configuration file in each accounting processing unit 12.

[0063] Clock 84 measures the date and time. Processor 81 processes the date and time measured by clock 84 as the current date and time.

[0064] The communication interface 85 performs data communication with a server 13 or registration device 11 connected via the network 14. The communication interface 85 can also perform data communication with other servers 13 connected via the network 14.

[0065] The touch panel 87 is a display device capable of displaying display elements such as characters, symbols, and images (including buttons) on a display. The touch panel 87 is also an input device that detects the touch operation position on the display using a sensor and processes the display element at that position as input. The touch panel 87 displays information to the customer, who is the operator of the server 13, and accepts operation input from that customer.

[0066] Keyboard 88 is an input device operated by an administrator or similar person. Printer 70 is an output device that prints various data stored on server 13.

[0067] For the hardware of such a server 13, for example, an existing personal computer can be used. Note that the devices connected to the server 13 are not limited to the touch panel 87, keyboard 88, and printer 70 shown in Figure 4. Additional devices may be added or some devices omitted depending on the application of the server 13.

[0068] (Operation description) Figures 5 and 6 are flowcharts showing the main information processing steps performed by the processor 61 of the accounting processing unit 12 according to the accounting program. Figures 7, 8A, and 8B are flowcharts showing the main information processing steps performed by the processor 31 of the registration machine 11 according to the registration program. The main operations of the accounting system 10 will be explained below using each of these figures. Note that the information processing steps and contents described below are examples. The steps and contents are not particularly limited as long as similar results can be obtained.

[0069] First, we will explain the setting operation of the configuration file (screen setting data) in the accounting processing device 12 before operation begins, that is, the setting operation for "display / hide" of the "return" button on the payment selection screen. Figures 9 to 17 show examples of display screens on the touch panel 67 of the accounting processing device 12.

[0070] The processor 61 of the accounting processing device 12, which is in standby mode, displays the standby screen DA0 on the touch panel 67 (Figure 5, ACT11). Figure 9 shows an example of the standby screen DA0 in the accounting processing device 12. The standby screen DA0 displays a message prompting the customer 22 to operate the touch panel 67, for example, "Welcome / Please touch the screen."

[0071] When the processor 61 detects a touch operation on the touch panel 67 (ACT12, YES), it displays the product registration start screen DA1 on the touch panel 67 (ACT13). Figure 10 shows an example of the product registration start screen in the accounting processing device 12. The product registration start screen DA1 includes, for example, buttons to allow the customer 22 to select paid shopping bags / reusable bags / no bag needed before registering purchased items, and a "call staff" button DA11.

[0072] When the processor 61 detects a touch operation on a button to select paid shopping bag / reusable bag / no bag needed (ACT14, YES), it displays the product registration screen DA3 on the touch panel 67 (ACT15). Figure 11 shows an example of the product registration screen DA3 in the accounting processing device 12. The product registration screen DA3 is a screen that has a detail area and a total area. The detail area is for displaying the product name, quantity, unit price, and amount of purchased products in a list format in a sequential numbered order. Note that the items displayed in the detail area are not limited to product name, quantity, unit price, and amount. Other items may be added, or any of the items, such as the amount, may be omitted. The total area is for displaying the total quantity (points) and the total amount (yen) displayed in the detail area, respectively. Note that the items displayed in the total area are not limited to the total quantity and the total amount. Other items may be added, or any of the items, such as the total quantity, may be omitted.

[0073] Furthermore, the product registration screen DA3 is equipped with a "Call Staff" button DA31 and a screen change button DA32. The screen change button DA32 is used to indicate the switching between a first checkout screen, which includes a "Back" button to receive instructions to switch back to the product registration screen, and a second checkout screen, which does not include a "Back" button, on the checkout screen (for example, the payment method selection screen described later). Depending on the operation of the screen change button DA32, the screen setting data is changed, and the "Display / Hide" status of the "Back" button is toggled.

[0074] When the processor 61 detects a touch operation on the screen change button DA32 on the product registration screen DA3 (ACT16, NO → ACT17, YES), it refers to the screen setting data set in the setting file 631 and determines whether the "back" button is set to "displayed" or "not displayed" (first accounting screen / second accounting screen) (ACT18).

[0075] Furthermore, the screen setting data set in the setting file 631 may always retain the settings made by an administrator or other operator when the accounting processing device 12 is powered on, or it may retain the settings made during the previous operation.

[0076] The processor 61 displays a screen change confirmation screen on the touch panel 67 according to the settings indicated by the screen setting data (ACT19).

[0077] For example, if the screen setting data is determined to indicate a screen setting where the "Back" button is "displayed" (first checkout screen), the processor 61 displays a screen change confirmation screen as shown in Figure 12. In the screen change confirmation screen DA4 shown in Figure 12, the message "[Back] displayed" is displayed, indicating the current state. If the processor 61 detects a touch operation on the "Yes" button DA42 on the screen change confirmation screen, it changes the setting indicated by the screen setting data to "Back" button "not displayed" (second checkout screen) (ACT21). If the processor 61 detects a touch operation on the "No" button DA43 on the screen change confirmation screen, it returns to the display state of the product registration screen DA3 without changing the screen setting data (ACT15).

[0078] On the other hand, in ACT18, if it is determined that the screen setting data indicates a screen setting of "no display" for the "back" button (second accounting screen), the processor 61 displays a screen change confirmation screen as shown in Figure 13. In the screen change confirmation screen DA5 shown in Figure 13, the message "[Back] not displayed" indicating the current state is displayed. If a touch operation is detected on the "Yes" button DA52 on the screen change confirmation screen, the processor 61 changes the setting indicated by the screen setting data to "Display" for the "back" button (first accounting screen) (ACT21). If a touch operation is detected on the "No" button DA53 on the screen change confirmation screen, the processor 61 returns to the display state of the product registration screen DA3 without changing the screen setting data (ACT15).

[0079] Figure 14 shows an example of the product registration screen DA3 after the screen change confirmation screen is displayed. After the setting operation of the setting file (screen setting data) is completed, the "Call Staff" button DA31 is operated to return to the original screen (waiting screen). Alternatively, the screen may be returned to the original screen (waiting screen) after a predetermined period of time has elapsed.

[0080] When the processor 61 detects a touch operation on the "Call Staff" button DA31 on the product registration screen DA3 (ACT16, NO → ACT17, NO → ACT32, NO → ACT22, YES), it displays the staff call confirmation screen on the touch panel 67 (ACT23). Figure 15 shows an example of the staff call confirmation screen DA6.

[0081] When the processor 61 detects a touch operation on the "No" button DA63 on the staff call confirmation screen DA6 (ACT24, NO), it returns to the display state of the product registration screen DA3 shown in Figure 14 (ACT15). On the other hand, when the processor 61 detects a touch operation on the "Yes" button D62 on the staff call confirmation screen (ACT24, YES), it displays the staff call screen on the touch panel 67 (ACT25). Figure 16 shows an example of the staff call screen DA7.

[0082] When the processor 61 detects a touch operation on the "Cancel Call" button DA71 on the staff call screen DA7 (ACT26, YES), the processor 61 enters a state of waiting for staff code input. For example, the staff code is input by having the staff barcode assigned to each staff member read by the scanner 69 (ACT27). Once the processor 61 confirms that the staff code read by the scanner 69 is a valid code, it displays the management menu screen DA8 on the touch panel 67 (ACT28). Figure 17 shows an example of the management menu screen DA8.

[0083] The management menu screen DA8 includes buttons such as "Cash Handling," "Maintenance," and "POS Operations." When a button is pressed (ACT29, NO), the processor 61 executes various management processes (other processes) corresponding to the button (ACT30).

[0084] Here, the "Call Staff" button DA31 is pressed to return to the original screen (standby screen), and the "Return to Original Screen" button DA81 on the management menu screen DA8 is touched. When the "Return to Original Screen" button DA81 is pressed (ACT29, YES), the processor 61 returns to the state of displaying the standby screen DA0 shown in Figure 9 (ACT11).

[0085] In this way, the accounting processing device 12 can easily change the "display / hide" setting (screen setting change) of the "back" button on the accounting screen (payment method selection screen) (first accounting screen / second accounting screen) by operating the screen change button DA32 provided on the product registration screen DA3, in relation to the screen setting data in the setting file 631.

[0086] Next, we will explain the operation of the registration machine 11 and the accounting processing device 12 when the accounting system 10 is operated using a semi-self-service method.

[0087] For example, if the store is crowded and customers 22 are waiting to be processed by the payment processing device 12 when the system is fully self-service, the payment system 10 can be operated in a semi-self-service mode, allowing store employees 21 to register purchased items with the registration machine 11, and the payment processing device 12 can be operated as a payment machine (hybrid POS device) to process the payment at the customer's request. Figures 18 to 24 show examples of the display screens on the touch panel 38 of the registration machine 11. Figures 25 to 31 show examples of the display screens on the touch panel 67 of the payment processing device 12.

[0088] The processor 31 of the registration machine 11, which is in standby mode, displays the registration screen on the touch panel 38 (Figure 7, ACT71). Figure 18 shows an example of the registration screen DB1 in the registration machine 11. Figure 18 shows a state in which several purchased items have already been registered.

[0089] The registration screen DB1 is a screen that has a detail area and a total area. The detail area is for displaying the product name, quantity, unit price, and total amount of purchased items in a list format, in sequential order. Note that the items displayed in the detail area are not limited to product name, quantity, unit price, and total amount. Other items may be added, or any of the items, such as the total amount, may be omitted. The total area is for displaying the total quantity (points) and the total amount (yen) displayed in the detail area, respectively. Note that the items displayed in the total area are not limited to the total quantity and the total amount. Other items may be added, or any of the items, such as the total quantity, may be omitted.

[0090] The processor 31, displaying the registration screen, waits for product registration. Many products have a barcode that represents the product code, which is the product's identification information. When the store clerk 21 receives a request from the customer 22 to pay for the purchased items, the clerk 21 operates the scanner 37 to read the barcode attached to the purchased items. When the barcode is read by the scanner 37, the product code of the purchased item is entered into the registration machine 11 (product registration). On the other hand, some products, such as fresh food, do not have barcodes. If a purchased item does not have a barcode, the store clerk 21 operates the soft key corresponding to the purchased item, also known as the product key, from the group of soft keys for barcode-less products displayed on part of the registration screen. When the product key is operated, the product code of the purchased item corresponding to that product key is entered into the registration machine 11. When the product code of the purchased item is entered into the registration machine 11 in this way, the processor 31 determines that the product has been registered.

[0091] If it is determined that a product is registered (ACT72, YES), the processor 31 performs product sales data processing (ACT73). Specifically, the processor 31 searches the product file and obtains product data such as the product name and unit price of the product identified by the product code entered via the scanner 37 or touch panel 38. The processor 31 then saves the product sales data, including items such as product code, product name, unit price, number of items sold, and sales amount, to the transaction memory. The transaction memory is part of the volatile memory area in the main memory 32.

[0092] After processing the product sales data, the processor 31 waits for either a product registration for the next purchased product or an instruction to output a subtotal. The subtotal output is instructed when the subtotal key is operated. The subtotal key may be a hard key located on the keyboard 36 or a soft key located on the registration screen.

[0093] If there are other items registered (ACT74, YES), clerk 21 performs the same registration operation for those purchased items as described above. Processor 31 performs product sales data processing (ACT73). After completing the registration operation for all purchased items, clerk 21 operates the subtotal key.

[0094] If the subtotal output is instructed by operating the subtotal key (ACT75, YES), the processor 31 displays the payment screen DB2 for the purchased items on the touch panel 38 based on the product sales data acquired by product sales data processing. Figure 19 shows an example of the payment screen DB2. The payment screen DB2 displays the subtotal amount, which is the sum of the sales amounts of the product sales data stored in the transaction memory by product sales data processing, and the number of purchased items. The payment screen DB2 also includes a "Select Payment Method" button DB21 that instructs the registration machine 11 to perform accounting processing, and a "Transfer to Accounting Machine" button DB22 that allows the accounting processing device 12 to perform accounting processing based on the customer's operation.

[0095] If an operation other than the "Select Payment Method" button DB21 or the "Transfer to Accounting Machine" button DB22 is performed on the payment screen DB2 (ACT77, NO → Figure 8B, ACT90, NO), the processor 31 executes the other processing corresponding to each button (ACT95).

[0096] Next, we will explain the case where accounting processing is performed in the registration machine 11.

[0097] When the processor 31 receives an instruction to perform accounting processing in the registration machine 11 via an operation on the "Select Payment Method" button DB21 (ACT77, NO → Figure 8B, ACT90, YES), it displays the payment method selection screen on the touch panel 38 (ACT91). The payment method selection screen displays soft keys for, for example, cash key, credit key, electronic money key, and code payment key. Customers paying with cash operate the cash key and insert cash into the automatic change dispenser. Customers paying with a credit card operate the credit key and have the card reader 41 read the credit card data. Customers paying with electronic money operate the electronic money key and have the card reader read the electronic money card data. Customers paying with code payment operate the code payment key and have the scanner 37 read the payment code displayed on their smartphone.

[0098] The processor 31, which displays the payment method selection screen, waits for the user to select one of the following payment methods: cash key, credit key, electronic money key, or code payment key. When a user selects one of these keys (ACT92, YES), the processor 31 performs the accounting process (ACT93). For example, if the cash key is selected, the processor 31 performs the cash accounting process based on the cash inserted into the automatic change dispenser 42. For example, if the credit key is selected, the processor 31 performs the credit accounting process based on the credit card data read by the card reader 41. For example, if the electronic money key is selected, the processor 31 performs the electronic money accounting process based on the electronic money card data read by the card reader 41. For example, if the code payment key is selected, the processor 31 performs the code accounting process based on the payment code read by the scanner 37. Since these accounting processes are well-known, a detailed explanation is omitted here.

[0099] Once the accounting process is complete, the processor 31 controls the printer 40 to issue a receipt (ACT94). After issuing the receipt, the processor 31 enters a standby state. Therefore, the touch panel 38 screen becomes a standby screen, allowing the next customer to begin their transaction.

[0100] Next, we will explain the case where transaction information is transmitted from the registration device 11 and accounting processing is performed in the accounting processing device 12.

[0101] When the processor 31 of the registration machine 11 is instructed to perform accounting processing in the accounting processing device 12 by an operation on the "Transfer to Accounting Machine" button DB22 on the payment screen DB2 displayed in ACT76 (ACT77, YES), it creates transaction information (transaction information) for accounting processing (ACT78). For example, the processor 31 creates a transaction information file that describes the product sales data of the purchased product stored in the transaction memory, and transaction identification data such as the transaction number, transaction date and time, and registration machine ID. Note that the transaction information is not limited to the transaction information file described above. In short, the transaction information only needs to be information that allows the accounting processing device 12 to settle the transaction of the product.

[0102] The processor 31, which created the transaction information file, refers to the status table 321 to determine the accounting processing unit 12 to which the transaction information will be sent. Specifically, the processor 31 selects an accounting machine ID with a status value of "0" from the status table 321. If two or more accounting machine IDs are selected, the processor 31 selects one of them according to a predetermined rule. For example, it selects the accounting machine ID that has been selected for the longest elapsed time since last selection. The processor 31 determines the accounting processing unit 12 of the selected accounting machine ID as the destination for the transaction information. In the payment screen DB2 shown in Figure 19, it is displayed that "Accounting Machine 01" has been determined as the accounting processing unit 12 to which the information will be sent.

[0103] The processor 31, which has determined the destination for the transaction information, controls the communication interface 35 to send the transaction information (transaction information file) to the accounting processing unit 12, the destination. Through this control, the transaction information file is transmitted via the network 14 (ACT80) and received by the accounting processing unit 12, the destination.

[0104] When the accounting processing device 12 is in standby mode, it displays the standby screen DA0 on the touch panel 67, as shown in Figure 9 above (Figure 5, ACT11). If a transaction information file is received from the registration device 11 (ACT12, NO → ACT33, YES), the processor 61 of the accounting processing device 12 refers to the screen setting data in the setting file 631 to determine whether the "back" button on the accounting screen (the payment method selection screen described later) should be displayed or not (Figure 6, ACT41).

[0105] For example, if the processor 61 determines that the "back" button is "not displayed" based on the screen setting data (ACT42, YES), it displays a payment selection screen (second accounting screen) that does not include the "back" button on the touch panel 67. Figure 25 shows an example of a payment selection screen DA10 that does not include the "back" button. The payment selection screen DA10 includes a card list DA101 that displays a list of card types that can be used for accounting, for example by the logo of the card company, a payment method selection key DA102, and a "call staff" button DA103. The payment method selection key DA102 shown in Figure 25 allows the user to select one of the following as a payment method, for example, "cash," "credit," or "electronic money," and proceed with the accounting process. At this point, the processor 61 of the accounting processing device 12 enters a state of waiting for an operation on the payment selection screen DA10.

[0106] Meanwhile, the processor 31 of the registration device 11 sends the transaction information file to the accounting processing device 12 and then displays the transaction information file transmission completion screen DB3 on the touch panel 38 (ACT81). Figure 20 shows an example of the transmission completion screen DB3. On the transmission completion screen DB3, the number "1" is displayed as the destination information DB31 for the transaction information file, indicating the accounting machine ID "Accounting Machine 01" of the accounting processing device 12 to which the file is sent. The transmission completion screen DB3 is also provided with a confirmation key DB32 and a data retrieval key DB33.

[0107] Upon confirming the display of the transmission completion screen DB3, the store clerk 21 instructs customer 22 to proceed with payment using the payment processing device 12 with register number N, and also operates the confirmation key DB32. When the processor 31 detects the operation of the confirmation key DB32 (ACT82, YES), it terminates processing for customer 22's purchased items and returns to standby mode. That is, the processor 31 displays the registration screen on the touch panel 38. Therefore, when the store clerk receives a request to pay for the next customer's purchased items, they can begin the registration operation for those items.

[0108] Meanwhile, when the processor 31 detects the operation of the "data recall" key DB33 on the transmission completion screen DB3 (ACT82, NO), it displays the accounting machine selection screen DB4 on the touch panel 38 for selecting the accounting processing unit 12 (accounting machine) to be used for data recall (Figure 8A, ACT84). Figure 21 shows an example of the accounting machine selection screen DB4. The accounting machine selection screen DB4 displays a list DB41 of accounting processing units 12 (accounting machines) to which the transaction information file will be sent from the registration machine 11. In the list DB41 of the accounting machine selection screen DB4 shown in Figure 21, for example, two "accounting machines 10" and "accounting machine 11" are displayed.

[0109] If an operation is performed to select one of the accounting machines (accounting processing devices 12) from the list display DB41, the processor 31 displays the call confirmation guidance DB42. Figure 22 shows an example of a screen in which the call confirmation guidance DB42 is displayed on the accounting machine selection screen DB4.

[0110] In the call confirmation guidance DB42 shown in Figure 22, when "Accounting Machine 10" is selected from the list display DB41, the message "Recalling the transaction from Accounting Machine 10" is displayed along with the "Execute" key BD43 and the "Cancel" key DB44. If the operation to select the "Cancel" key DB44 is performed (ACT85, NO), the processor 31 cancels the data recall and returns to the display state of the transmission completion screen DB3 shown in Figure 20 (ACT81).

[0111] On the other hand, if the "Execute" key BD43 is selected (ACT85, YES), the processor 31 starts the transaction recall process, assuming that the accounting processing unit 12 (accounting machine) to be targeted for data recall has been determined (ACT86). In the transaction recall process, for example, the accounting processing unit 12 selected as the target for recall (here, "accounting machine 10") is notified of the transaction recall, causing it to stop accounting processing on the previously sent transaction information file and to invalidate the transaction information file.

[0112] When the accounting processing unit 12, which is in a waiting state for an operation on the payment selection screen DA10, receives a transaction recall notification from the registration machine 11 (ACT44, YES) before an operation on the payment selection screen DA10, it displays the data recall screen DA10 to prevent the customer 22 from operating on the payment selection screen DA10. Figure 26 shows an example of the data recall screen DA10. On the data recall screen DA10, for example, the message DA103 "Data is being recalled. Please wait a moment" is displayed.

[0113] Meanwhile, the processor 31 of the registration machine 11 displays the transaction recall processing screen DB45 on the touch panel 38 (ACT87). When the processor 31 returns to the registration screen DB5 before sending the transaction information file and finishes the transaction recall process (ACT88, YES), it displays the processing completion screen DB51 (ACT89). Figure 24 shows an example of the processing completion screen DB51. On the processing completion screen DB51, a message such as "Unsettled transactions have been recalled" is displayed.

[0114] Meanwhile, when the transaction retrieval process of the registration device 11 is completed (ACT63, YES) and the registration device 11 notifies the accounting device 12 of the completion of the process, the accounting device 12 returns to the state of displaying the standby screen DA0 from the data retrieval screen DA10 (ACT11).

[0115] When the "close" key DB52 on the processing completion screen DB51 is pressed, the processor 31 terminates the display of the processing completion screen DB51, returns to the registration screen DB5, and enters a state of waiting for the registration of purchased products, as described above (Figure 7, ACT72). By retrieving the data in this way, the registration machine 11 can resume product registration and register additional products.

[0116] If the processor 61 of the accounting processing device 12 does not receive a transaction recall notification from the registration device 11 (ACT44, NO) and detects an operation to specify a payment method ("cash", "credit", or "electronic money") on the payment selection screen DA10 shown in Figure 25 (ACT46, YES), it executes accounting processing for the purchased goods indicated in the transaction information file using the specified payment method (ACT47). Once the accounting processing is complete (ACT48, YES), the processor 61 returns to the state of displaying the standby screen DA0 (ACT11).

[0117] Furthermore, the explanation above uses the case where "not displayed" for the "back" button is determined based on the screen setting data in ACT41 as an example. However, when the processor 61 determines that "displayed" for the "back" button is present based on the screen setting data (ACT42, NO), it displays the payment selection screen (first accounting screen) including the "back" button on the touch panel 67. Figure 27 shows an example of the payment selection screen DA11 including the "back" button. The payment selection screen DA11 includes a card list DA111 that displays a list of card types that can be used for accounting, for example, by the logo of the card company, a payment method selection key DA112, a "call staff" button DA113, and a "back" button DA114.

[0118] Furthermore, even when the payment selection screen DA11 (first accounting screen), which includes the "back" button DA114, is displayed, if a transaction recall notification is received from the registration device 11, the transaction recall process will be executed in the same manner as described above (ACT44~46), and a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0119] When the processor 61 of the accounting processing device 12 detects a touch operation on the "Call Staff" button DA113 on the payment selection screen DA11 (ACT50, NO → ACT51, YES), it displays a staff call confirmation screen on the touch panel 67 (ACT52). Figure 28 shows an example of the staff call confirmation screen DA12.

[0120] When the processor 61 detects a touch operation on the "No" button DA123 on the staff call confirmation screen DA12 (ACT53, NO), it returns to the display state of the product registration screen DA11 shown in Figure 27 (ACT49). On the other hand, when the processor 61 detects a touch operation on the "Yes" button D122 on the staff call confirmation screen (ACT24, YES), it displays the staff call screen DA12 on the touch panel 67 (ACT54). Figure 29 shows an example of the staff call screen DA12.

[0121] When the processor 61 detects a touch operation on the "Cancel Call" button DA125 on the staff call screen DA12 (ACT55, YES), the processor 61 enters a state of waiting for staff code input. For example, the staff code is input by having the staff barcode assigned to each staff member read by the scanner 69 (ACT56). Once the processor 61 confirms that the staff code read by the scanner 69 is a valid code, it displays the management menu screen DA8 on the touch panel 67 (ACT57). Figure 30 shows an example of the management menu screen DA8.

[0122] The management menu screen DA8 includes buttons such as "Cash Handling," "Maintenance," and "POS Operations." When a button is pressed (ACT58, NO), the processor 61 executes various management processes (other processes) corresponding to the button (ACT59).

[0123] Here, the "Call Staff" button DA113 is pressed to return to the original screen, the product registration screen, and the "Return to Original Screen" button DA81 on the management menu screen DA8 is touched. When the "Return to Original Screen" button DA81 is pressed (ACT29, YES), the processor 61 returns to the state of displaying the product registration screen DA3 shown in Figure 31 (ACT15). Here, since the transaction information file has been received from the registration machine 11, the processor 61 displays the information of the purchased product indicated in the transaction information file on the product registration screen DA3. The product registration screen DA3 is equipped with the "Call Staff" button DA31, the "Change Screen" button 32, and the "Checkout" button D33 because it contains information of the purchased product.

[0124] When the operation to select the "Checkout" button D33 is detected (ACT16, NO → ACT17, NO → ACT32, YES), the processor 61, in the same manner as described above, determines whether the "Back" button on the checkout screen (payment method selection screen) is "displayed / not displayed" based on the screen setting data (Figure 6, ACT41), and displays either the payment selection screen DA11 (first checkout screen) which includes the "Back" button as shown in Figure 27, or the payment selection screen DA10 (second checkout screen) which does not include the "Back" button as shown in Figure 25, on the touch panel 67 (ACT43, ACT49).

[0125] When the processor 61 of the accounting processing unit 12 detects an operation to specify a payment method for the payment selection screen DA10 shown in Figure 25 (ACT46, YES), it performs accounting processing for the purchased goods indicated in the transaction information file using the specified payment method (ACT47). When the accounting processing is complete (ACT48, YES), the processor 61 returns to the state of displaying the standby screen DA0 (ACT11).

[0126] Similarly, when the processor 61 of the accounting processing unit 12 detects an operation to specify a payment method for the payment selection screen DA11 shown in Figure 27 (ACT60, YES), it performs accounting processing for the purchased goods indicated in the transaction information file using the specified payment method (ACT61). When the accounting processing is complete (ACT62, YES), the processor 61 returns to the state of displaying the standby screen DA0 (ACT11).

[0127] Furthermore, if the operation of the "Change Screen" button 32 is detected on the product registration screen DA3 (ACT16, NO → ACT17, YES), the processor 61 executes a process to change the screen setting data set in the setting file 631 in the same manner as described above (ACT18~ACT21).

[0128] In this way, the accounting processing device 12 in this embodiment can start operating as a semi-self-service accounting machine when it receives a transaction information file (information related to product transactions) from the registration device 11 while displaying the standby screen. In other words, the accounting processing device 12 can be easily switched between semi-self-service and fully self-service modes without having to switch operations according to the mode.

[0129] Next, we will explain the operation of the accounting processing device 12 when the accounting system 10 is operated using a fully self-service method.

[0130] For example, when the store is not crowded (when there are few customers 22 waiting to pay using the payment processing device 12), the payment system 10 is operated in a fully self-service mode, allowing customers 22 to register their purchased items and pay for them (pay processing) using the payment processing device 12. Figures 32 to 34 show examples of the display screens on the touch panel 67 of the payment processing device 12.

[0131] The processor 61 of the accounting processing device 12, which is in standby mode, displays the standby screen DA0 on the touch panel 67 (Figure 5, ACT11). Figure 32 shows an example of the standby screen DA0 in the accounting processing device 12. The standby screen DA0 displays a message prompting the customer 22 to operate the touch panel 67, for example, "Welcome / Please touch the screen."

[0132] When the processor 61 detects a touch operation on the touch panel 67 (ACT12, YES), it displays the product registration start screen DA1 on the touch panel 67 (ACT13). Figure 33 shows an example of the product registration start screen in the accounting processing device 12. The product registration start screen DA1 includes, for example, buttons to allow the customer 22 to select paid shopping bags / reusable bags / no bag needed before registering purchased items, and a "call a store clerk" button DA11.

[0133] When the processor 61 detects a touch operation on a button to select paid shopping bag / reusable bag / no bag needed (ACT14, YES), it displays the product registration screen DA3 on the touch panel 67 (ACT15). Figure 34 shows an example of the product registration screen DA3 in the accounting processing device 12. The product registration screen DA3 is equipped with a "call staff" button DA31, a screen change button DA32, and a "checkout" button DA33. Details of the product registration screen DA3 are the same as described above and are therefore omitted.

[0134] The processor 61, displaying the product registration screen DA3, waits for product registration. The customer 22 operates the scanner 69 to read the barcode attached to the purchased product. When the barcode is read by the scanner 69, the product code of the purchased product is entered into the accounting processing unit 12 (product registration). On the other hand, some products, such as fresh food, may not have barcodes. If the purchased product does not have a barcode, the customer 22 operates the soft key corresponding to the purchased product, also known as the product key, from the group of soft keys for products without barcodes that are displayed on part of the registration screen. When the product key is operated, the product code of the purchased product corresponding to that product key is entered into the accounting processing unit 12. When the product code of the purchased product is entered into the accounting processing unit 12 in this way, the processor 61 determines that the product has been registered.

[0135] If it is determined that a product is registered (ACT16, YES), the processor 61 performs product sales data processing (ACT31). Specifically, the processor 61 searches the product file and obtains product data such as the product name and unit price of the product identified by the product code entered via the scanner 69 or touch panel 67. The processor 61 then saves the product sales data, including items such as product code, product name, unit price, number of items sold, and sales amount, to the transaction memory. The transaction memory is part of the volatile memory area in the main memory 62.

[0136] After processing the product sales data, processor 61 waits to see if there is a product registration for the next purchased item or if the "Checkout" button D33 is pressed.

[0137] If customer 22 has other items registered, they perform the registration operation described above for those items as well (ACT16, YES). Processor 61 performs product sales data processing (ACT31). After completing the registration operation for all purchased items, customer 22 operates the "Checkout" button D33.

[0138] Furthermore, on the product registration screen DA3, the screen settings indicated by the screen setting data set in the setting file 631 can be changed (switched) by operating the screen change button DA32. When a touch operation on the screen change button DA32 is detected on the product registration screen DA3 (ACT16, NO → ACT17, YES), the processor 61 refers to the screen setting data set in the setting file 631 and determines whether the "Back" button is set to "Displayed / Not Displayed" (First Accounting Screen / Second Accounting Screen) (ACT18).

[0139] For example, if the screen setting data is determined to indicate a screen setting where the "Back" button is "displayed" (first checkout screen), the processor 61 displays a screen change confirmation screen as shown in Figure 12. In the screen change confirmation screen DA4 shown in Figure 12, the message "[Back] displayed" is displayed, indicating the current state. If the processor 61 detects a touch operation on the "Yes" button DA42 on the screen change confirmation screen, it changes the setting indicated by the screen setting data to "Back" button "not displayed" (second checkout screen) (ACT21). If the processor 61 detects a touch operation on the "No" button DA43 on the screen change confirmation screen, it returns to the display state of the product registration screen DA3 without changing the screen setting data (ACT15).

[0140] On the other hand, in ACT18, if it is determined that the screen setting data indicates a screen setting of "no display" for the "back" button (second accounting screen), the processor 61 displays a screen change confirmation screen as shown in Figure 13. In the screen change confirmation screen DA5 shown in Figure 13, the message "[Back] not displayed" indicating the current state is displayed. If a touch operation is detected on the "Yes" button DA52 on the screen change confirmation screen, the processor 61 changes the setting indicated by the screen setting data to "Display" for the "back" button (first accounting screen) (ACT21). If a touch operation is detected on the "No" button DA53 on the screen change confirmation screen, the processor 61 returns to the display state of the product registration screen DA3 without changing the screen setting data (ACT15).

[0141] Furthermore, after the screen settings are changed in response to a touch operation on the screen change button DA32, when returning to the display state of the product registration screen DA3, the same purchased products as when the operation on the screen change button DA32 was performed will be displayed (the product registration screen will not change even if you switch screens).

[0142] Furthermore, if accounting is instructed by operating the "Accounting" button D33 on the product registration screen DA3 shown in Figure 34 (ACT32, YES), the processor 61, in the same manner as described above, displays either the payment selection screen DA11 (first accounting screen) including the "Back" button shown in Figure 27, or the payment selection screen DA10 (second accounting screen) not including the "Back" button shown in Figure 25, on the touch panel 67 based on the screen setting data in the setting file 631 (Figure 6, ACT41) (ACT43, ACT49).

[0143] With the touch panel 67 displayed on the payment selection screen DA10 (second checkout screen), which does not include a "back" button as shown in Figure 25 (ACT 43), if customer 22 wants to return to the product registration screen DA3 to add purchased items, they operate the "call staff" button DA103 on the payment selection screen DA10. When the processor 61 detects a touch operation on the "call staff" button DA103 on the payment selection screen DA10 (ACT 44, NO → ACT 46, NO), it displays the staff call confirmation screen DA12 on the touch panel 67, as shown in Figure 28 (ACT 52). The following processes (ACT 52 to ACT 59) are then executed as described above.

[0144] When the "Return to previous screen" button DA81 on the management menu screen DA8 displayed in ACT57 is touched (ACT58, YES), the processor 61 returns to the state before the "Checkout" button D33 shown in Figure 34 was pressed, displaying the product registration screen DA3 (ACT15). This allows the customer 22 to add purchased items on the product registration screen DA3.

[0145] Similarly, with the touch panel 67 displayed on the payment selection screen DA11 (first checkout screen) which includes the "back" button shown in Figure 27 (ACT 49), if customer 22 wants to return to the product registration screen DA3 to add more purchased items, they operate the "call staff" button DA113 or the "back" button DA114 on the payment selection screen DA10. The case where the "call staff" button DA113 is operated is assumed to be executed in the same manner as described above, and the explanation is omitted (ACT 51 to ACT 59).

[0146] If the "Back" button DA114 on the payment selection screen DA11 is detected to have been pressed (ACT50, YES), the processor 61 returns to the state before the "Checkout" button D33 was pressed, as shown in Figure 34, displaying the product registration screen DA3 (ACT15). This allows the customer 22 to add purchased items on the product registration screen DA3.

[0147] In this way, the accounting processing device 12 can easily change the "display / hide" setting (first accounting screen / second accounting screen) of the "back" button on the accounting screen (payment method selection screen) (screen setting change) by operating the screen change button DA32 provided on the product registration screen DA3.

[0148] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents.

[0149] Furthermore, the processing described in the above-mentioned embodiment can be written as a program that can be executed by a computer to a recording medium such as a magnetic disk (flexible disk, hard disk, etc.), an optical disk (CD-ROM, DVD, etc.), or a semiconductor memory, and provided to various devices. It is also possible to transmit it to various devices via a communication medium. The computer reads the program recorded on the recording medium or receives the program via a communication medium, and executes the above-mentioned processing by having its operation controlled by this program. The original claims of this application are included below. [C1] A registration screen display means that, when an input operation is received while the waiting screen is displayed, displays a product registration screen for receiving registration of first information relating to the product to be purchased, A receiving means for receiving second information related to product transactions from a registration machine, When the second information is received, an accounting screen display means displays an accounting screen for accounting processing for goods based on the second information, An accounting processing means that performs accounting processing for a product based on the first information received through the product registration screen or the second information received by the receiving means, An accounting processing device. [C2] The accounting processing device according to C1, wherein the accounting screen display means switches between a first accounting screen which includes a button for receiving an instruction to switch the display to the product registration screen on the accounting screen, and a second accounting screen which does not include the button, according to a pre-set screen setting. [C3] The registration screen display means displays a screen change button on the product registration screen to receive instructions to switch to the accounting screen. The accounting processing apparatus according to C2, wherein the accounting screen display means switches between the first accounting screen and the second accounting screen according to the screen settings set in response to the operation of the screen change button. [C4] The accounting processing device described in C3, wherein the registration screen display means displays the first information received on the product registration screen, and updates the display status of the first information in response to an operation on the screen change button. [C5] Computers, A registration screen display means that, when an input operation is received while the waiting screen is displayed, displays a product registration screen for receiving registration of first information relating to the product to be purchased, A receiving means for receiving second information related to product transactions from a registration machine, When the second information is received, an accounting screen display means displays an accounting screen for accounting processing for goods based on the second information, A program that functions as an accounting processing means for performing accounting processing on a product, based on the first information received through the product registration screen or the second information received by the receiving means. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0150] 10...Accounting system, 11...Registration machine, 12...Accounting processing device, 13...Server, 14...Network, 21...Shop staff, 22...Customer.

Claims

1. A registration screen display means that, when an input operation is received while the waiting screen is displayed, displays a product registration screen for receiving registration of first information relating to the product to be purchased, A receiving means for receiving second information regarding the settlement of transactions for products registered by the registration machine from the registration machine, When the second information is received, an accounting screen display means displays an accounting screen for accounting processing for goods based on the second information, An accounting processing means that performs accounting processing for a product based on the first information received through the product registration screen or the second information received by the receiving means, It has, The registration screen display means displays a screen change button on the product registration screen that instructs the user to switch between a setting that displays a button for receiving instructions to switch the display to the product registration screen from the accounting screen and a setting that does not display such a button. The accounting screen display means, when an operation is received on the screen change button displayed on the product registration screen, refers to the screen setting data set in the setting file to determine whether the button is set to be displayed or not, and changes the setting content indicated by the screen setting data to switch between a first accounting screen that includes the button and a second accounting screen that does not include the button.

2. The accounting processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the registration screen display means processes to change the settings indicated by the screen setting data in response to an operation on the screen change button, and then displays the product registration screen with the same purchased products registered as when the operation on the screen change button was performed.

3. Computers, A registration screen display means that, when an input operation is received while the waiting screen is displayed, displays a product registration screen for receiving registration of first information relating to the product to be purchased, A receiving means for receiving second information regarding the settlement of transactions for products registered by the registration machine from the registration machine, When the second information is received, an accounting screen display means displays an accounting screen for accounting processing for goods based on the second information, Based on the first information received through the product registration screen, or the second information received by the receiving means, it functions as an accounting processing means for performing accounting processing on the product. The registration screen display means displays a screen change button on the product registration screen that instructs the user to switch between a setting that displays a button for receiving instructions to switch the display to the product registration screen from the accounting screen and a setting that does not display such a button. The accounting screen display means is a program that, when an operation is received on the screen change button displayed on the product registration screen, refers to the screen setting data set in the setting file, determines whether the button is set to be displayed or not, and changes the setting content indicated by the screen setting data to switch between a first accounting screen that includes the button and a second accounting screen that does not include the button.

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