Transaction processing system, transaction processing method, receiving device, and transaction processing device.

Abstract

To enable an operator to smoothly start a transaction upon arrival at a transaction device.SOLUTION: A transaction processing system includes: a first device which has a reception unit that receives a transaction desired by a user; a second device which has a transaction processing unit that executes transactions; and a control unit which stops prescribed processing being executed by the second device when receiving the transaction processed by the transaction processing unit on the basis of the operation of the reception unit of the first device during the execution of the prescribed processing by the second device, causes the transaction processing unit to execute the processing of the transaction on the basis of the operation in the second device, and instructs the second device to resume the stopped prescribed processing when the prescribed time elapses without the start of the transaction waiting for processing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a transaction processing system, a transaction processing method, a reception device, and a transaction processing device.

Background Art

[0002] In stores such as financial institutions, devices (hereinafter referred to as "transaction processing devices" or "automated teller machines") for processing transactions of customers who visit the store are arranged. Transactions here include, for example, deposits (funding), withdrawals (withdrawals), transfers, account transfers, currency exchanges, and payments of taxes and public charges, etc. (hereinafter referred to as "tax and public charges"). The transaction processing devices arranged in financial institutions are specialized in teller machines, deposit-withdrawal machines, currency exchange machines, tax and public charge collection machines, etc. according to the content of the transaction. For example, in Patent Document 1, for the purpose of specializing the transfer between accounts with a long transaction time into a low-cost and space-saving device and shortening the waiting time of the transaction device by increasing the number of installed units, "in a lobby equipped with a plurality of automated teller machines, a window guidance device that guides customers to the optimal automated teller machine or window according to the transaction content by inputting the transaction content" is described.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Incidentally, the operations performed by the transaction processing unit are not limited to customer transactions. For example, there are processes for creating bundles of banknotes and packaged coins, and processes for checking the inventory balance. These processes are started automatically according to predetermined conditions and take several minutes to complete. Therefore, it is possible that these types of operations may be running when a customer arrives at the transaction processing unit. In this case, the customer cannot start their own transaction and has to wait for the ongoing process to finish, which may reduce customer satisfaction.

[0005] The present invention aims to enable operators to initiate transactions smoothly upon arrival at the transaction processing device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The invention described in claim 1 is desired by the user finance A first device having a reception section for accepting transactions, and the aforementioned finance A second device having a transaction processing unit that processes transactions, and during the execution of predetermined processing by the second device, the transaction processing unit processes based on the operation of the reception unit of the first device. finance If a transaction is accepted, the second device stops the predetermined process that is currently running, and based on the operation in the second device, finance The transaction processing unit is instructed to execute the transaction, and the processing is pending. finance transaction Processing The transaction processing system includes a control unit that instructs the second device to resume the stopped predetermined process if a predetermined time has elapsed without the process being started. The invention described in claim 2 is the transaction processing system described in claim 1, wherein the predetermined processing is a collection process of packaging loose coins. The invention described in claim 3 is the transaction processing system described in claim 1, wherein the predetermined processing is a verification process that matches the amount of money in the second device. The invention described in claim 4 relates to the second device financeThe transaction processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, after the processing of the transaction is completed, the control unit instructs the second device to resume the predetermined processing that was stopped. The invention described in claim 5 is the same as the receiving unit that receives the finance The number of transactions and the transaction processing unit of the second device that completed Financial transactions Based on the number of processes, the transaction processing unit of the second device is waiting to process The aforementioned financial It also has a management department that manages transactions, and is awaiting processing. The aforementioned financial If the transaction remains in the second device, the transaction processing unit of the second device will perform the transaction. finance The transaction processing system according to claim 4, wherein even after the completion of transaction processing, the control unit does not instruct the second device to resume the predetermined processing that was stopped during execution. The invention described in claim 6 relates to the second device finance Transaction processing is complete and pending processing The aforementioned financial If a transaction is cancelled, the control unit instructs the second device to resume the predetermined process that was stopped during execution, as described in claim 5. The invention described in claim 7 is the same as the receiving unit that receives the finance The number of transactions and the number of transactions that have been processed by the transaction processing unit of the second device. finance Based on the number of transactions, the transaction processing unit of the second device is awaiting processing. The aforementioned financial It also has a management department that manages transactions, and is awaiting processing. The aforementioned financial If the transaction remains in the second device, the transaction processing unit of the second device will perform the transaction. finance The transaction processing system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit does not put the second device into sleep mode even after the completion of transaction processing. The invention described in claim 8 is that the first device receives the finance It further has a guidance unit that guides users to destinations corresponding to transactions, and the reception unit has multiple The aforementioned financial When a transaction is accepted, the control unit, Multiple financial institutions Based on the state of the second device that processes the transaction, the plurality financeA transaction processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the system sets the order in which to process transactions and causes the guidance unit to execute guidance based on the set order. The invention described in claim 9 is a transaction processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first device includes the control unit. The invention described in claim 10 is a transaction processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first device is an electronic ledger that receives input of electronic ledger data by a user and outputs the received ledger data. The invention described in claim 11 is a transaction processing method performed by a transaction processing system, wherein the receiving device provides a transaction desired by the user. finance The transaction acceptance process and the control device are as described above. finance During the execution of predetermined processing by the transaction processing device that processes transactions, the transaction processing device processes the transaction based on the operation of the receiving unit of the receiving device. finance When a transaction is accepted, the transaction processing device stops the predetermined process that is currently being executed, and based on the operation in the transaction processing device, finance The transaction processing device is made to execute the transaction, and the processing is pending. finance transaction Processing A transaction processing method comprising: a process that instructs the transaction processing device to resume the stopped predetermined process if a predetermined time has elapsed without the process being started. The invention described in claim 12 is desired by the user finance The reception area for accepting transactions, and the aforementioned finance During the execution of predetermined processing by the transaction processing device that processes the transaction, based on the operation of the reception unit, the transaction processing device processes the transaction finance When a transaction is accepted, the transaction processing device stops the predetermined process that is currently being executed, and based on the operation in the transaction processing device, finance The transaction processing device is made to execute the transaction, and the processing is pending. finance The receiving device includes a control unit that, if a predetermined time has elapsed without the transaction processing being initiated, instructs the transaction processing device to resume the predetermined processing that has been stopped. The invention described in claim 13 is desired by the user finance A transaction processing apparatus that processes transactions, during the execution of a predetermined process by the apparatus itself, based on an operation of a reception unit of a reception apparatus, when the apparatus itself receives the finance transaction, stops the predetermined process being executed by the apparatus itself, and based on an operation in the apparatus itself, causes the apparatus itself to execute the finance processing of the transaction, and when a predetermined time elapses without the finance transaction Processing starting, has a control unit that instructs the apparatus itself to resume the stopped predetermined process.

Advantages of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, a transaction can be smoothly started when an operator arrives at the transaction processing apparatus.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] [Figure 1] It is a diagram for explaining an example of a space layout where a transaction processing system used in Embodiment 1 is installed. [Figure 2] It is a diagram for explaining a network configuration used in the transaction processing system used in Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] It is a diagram for explaining an example of the hardware configuration and functional configuration of a guidance device used in Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] It is a diagram showing an example of a reception screen displayed on a touch panel by a desired transaction reception unit. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing an example of a guidance screen displayed on a touch panel by a destination guidance unit. [Figure 6] It is a diagram for explaining an example of the hardware configuration and functional configuration of a money changer. [Figure 7] It is a diagram for explaining an example of the hardware configuration and functional configuration of a deposit-withdrawal machine. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing an example of a processing operation executed by the transaction processing system used in Embodiment 1. [Figure 9]This figure shows another example of processing operations performed by the transaction processing system used in Embodiment 1. [Figure 10] This figure illustrates an example of the hardware and functional configuration of the guidance device used in Embodiment 2. [Figure 11] This figure shows an example of processing operations performed by the transaction processing system used in Embodiment 2. [Figure 12] This figure shows another example of processing operations performed by the transaction processing system used in Embodiment 2. [Figure 13] This diagram illustrates the network configuration used in the transaction processing system used in Embodiment 3. [Figure 14] This diagram illustrates an example of the hardware and functional configuration of the management server used in Embodiment 3. [Figure 15] This figure shows an example of processing operations performed by the transaction processing system used in Embodiment 3. [Figure 16] This figure illustrates an example of the hardware and functional configuration of the guidance device used in Embodiment 4. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. <Embodiment 1> <System Configuration> Figure 1 illustrates an example of a spatial layout in which the transaction processing system 1 used in Embodiment 1 is installed. The layout shown in Figure 1 is assumed to be the lobby 10 of a financial institution. The lobby 10 is equipped with benches and chairs for customers waiting to conduct transactions. Although not depicted in Figure 1, the store also includes counters and workspaces where financial institution staff interact with customers.

[0010] In the lobby 10 shown in Figure 1, there is an information device 20, an electronic register desk 30, a currency exchange machine 40, and a deposit / withdrawal machine 50. The currency exchange machine 40 and the deposit / withdrawal machine 50 in this embodiment are examples of transaction processing devices that handle transactions involving currency. In this embodiment, the term "currency" is used when both banknotes and coins are included, and the terms "banknotes" and "coins" are used when they are distinguished from each other.

[0011] In this embodiment, the guidance device 20 is a terminal used to accept transactions requested by customers visiting a financial institution, and it also displays the number of people waiting for each transaction. The guidance device 20 also issues a receipt with a reception number printed on it for each transaction. Furthermore, the guidance device 20 in this embodiment also has the function of guiding the customer to the counter or other terminal corresponding to the accepted transaction. Other terminals here include an electronic ledger desk 30, a currency exchange machine 40, and a deposit / withdrawal machine 50. The customer is an example of a user of these terminals. In Figure 1, there is one guide device 20, but there may be multiple devices.

[0012] The electronic ledger terminal 30 is used for recording transaction slips. The operation panel of the electronic ledger terminal 30 is equipped with a screen for receiving the purpose of visit by handwriting or selecting from displayed buttons, and a screen for displaying slips corresponding to the received purpose. Input values ​​for each item on the slip are received by handwriting or key operation. The generated slip data (hereinafter referred to as "slip data") is uploaded to a server not shown in the diagram.

[0013] Furthermore, the electronic ledger desk 30 also has a function to issue receipts with a QR (Quick Response) code (registered trademark) printed on them for reading transaction data. When a customer holds the issued receipt over a QR code reader at the designated currency exchange machine 40 or deposit / withdrawal machine 50, the transaction data is downloaded from a server (not shown) to the transaction machine, and the transaction is executed. This function reduces the time that customers occupy the currency exchange machine 40 or deposit / withdrawal machine 50.

[0014] The electronic register desk 30 can also serve as the guidance device 20. In Figure 1, there are three electronic registration desks 30, but the number is arbitrary. For example, there could be one or two electronic registration desks 30. There could also be four or more electronic registration desks 30. Furthermore, it is possible to operate without placing any electronic registration desks 30 in the lobby 10. The same applies to the information device 20, but in this embodiment, at least one of the information device 20 and the electronic registration desk 30 is placed in the lobby 10. Note that the information device 20 and the electronic registration desk 30 are examples of the first device.

[0015] The currency exchange machine 40 is a terminal that dispenses currency of equivalent value to the deposited amount, in the denominations desired by the customer. The currency exchange machine 40 is an example of a transaction processing device. The deposit / withdrawal machine 50 is connected to an accounting system (not shown) and reflects the amount of deposited money in the customer's account data, as well as dispensing (i.e., withdrawing) money in an amount specified by the customer. The deposit / withdrawal machine 50 also handles transfers to accounts at other financial institutions, accounts at other branches of the same financial institution, transfers within the same branch of the same financial institution, and collection of taxes and public funds. The deposit / withdrawal machine 50 is an example of a transaction processing device. The currency exchange machine 40 and the deposit / withdrawal machine 50 are examples of the second device.

[0016] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the network configuration used in the transaction processing system 1 used in Embodiment 1. The information device 20, electronic register desk 30, currency exchange machine 40, and deposit / withdrawal machine 50 are connected to a network 60 and can communicate with each other. In this embodiment, devices connected to the network 60 are collectively referred to as terminals. Terminals include servers and tablet-type terminals, which are not shown. For example, the information device 20 and electronic register desk 30 can also be implemented as tablet-type terminals or desktop terminals. Figure 2 shows examples of the appearance of each terminal: the information device 20, electronic register desk 30, currency exchange machine 40, and deposit / withdrawal machine 50.

[0017] <Configuration of each device> <Information devices and electronic registration desks> Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware and functional configuration of the guidance device 20 used in Embodiment 1. The guidance device 20 consists of a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, a touch panel 23, a receipt printing unit 24, and a communication unit 25. The storage unit 22 is, for example, a hard disk drive or semiconductor memory, and stores basic software and application programs.

[0018] The touch panel 23 consists of a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (=Electro-Luminescence) display and a capacitive film sensor. The film sensor, which is laminated on the surface of the liquid crystal display, is made of a material with high light transmittance. The touch panel 23 is used to display a screen that accepts input from the customer regarding the purpose of their visit and the transaction they wish to complete, as well as to display the customer's destination according to the accepted purpose. In Figure 3, the touch panel 23 is used for inputting operations, but other devices may be used for inputting operations. For example, push buttons or contactless operation panels, or other devices that can be operated by the customer, may be used. The receipt printing unit 24 is a thermal printer that prints information such as the reception number and destination onto roll paper and outputs it. The communication unit 25 is used for communication with other terminals connected to the network 60 (see Figure 2). If the guidance device 20 is a tablet-type terminal, the communication unit 25 connects to the network 60 via wireless communication.

[0019] The control unit 21 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory) containing the BIOS (Basic Input Output System), and a RAM (Random Access Memory) used as a work area. The control unit 21 is essentially a computer and implements various functions through program execution. In this embodiment, as part of the functions realized through the execution of the program, there is a desired transaction reception unit 21A that accepts the transaction desired by a customer who has come to the store through the customer's operation of the touch panel 23, a reception notification unit 21B that notifies the transaction machine corresponding to the accepted transaction that the transaction has been accepted, and a destination guidance unit 21C that guides the customer to their destination.

[0020] For example, if the transaction requested by the customer is currency exchange, the reception notification unit 21B notifies the currency exchange machine 40 (see Figure 1) that the transaction has been received. If the transaction requested by the customer is a withdrawal, deposit, transfer, etc., the reception notification unit 21B notifies the deposit / withdrawal machine 50 (see Figure 1) that the transaction has been received. The notification from the reception notification unit 21B is used as a trigger to check the operating status of the currency exchange machine 40 and the deposit / withdrawal machine 50. This notification is merely information indicating the presence of a potential customer, and whether or not an actual transaction will be initiated will not be known until the customer operates the transaction machine.

[0021] Figure 4 shows an example of a reception screen 200 displayed on the touch panel 23 (see Figure 3) by the desired transaction reception unit 21A (see Figure 3). The reception screen 200 displays a message 201 for the customer and buttons 202 used to select a transaction. In Figure 4, the buttons 202 display "Withdrawal," "Deposit," "Transfer," "Tax / Fee Payment," and "Currency Exchange." The requested transaction reception unit 21A displays a screen that guides the customer to their destination according to the content of the button 202 pressed by the customer.

[0022] Figure 5 shows an example of a guidance screen 210 displayed on the touch panel 23 (see Figure 3) by the destination guidance unit 21C. The guidance screen 210 displays a message 211 indicating the desired transaction and destination, and a map 212 showing the customer's destination. In Figure 5, the map 212 shows the location of the deposit / withdrawal machine 50 (see Figure 1) used for deposits, in relation to the current location and the entrance. In the example in Figure 5, the location of the deposit / withdrawal machine 50 is shown in shaded areas to distinguish it from the adjacent currency exchange machine 40 (see Figure 1). The message 211 also indicates the approximate location within the lobby 10 and its position relative to other transaction machines, such as "Please proceed to the second terminal from the right at the back of the store."

[0023] The hardware and functional configurations of the electronic ledger 30 (see Figure 1) will not be explained here. The hardware configuration of the electronic ledger 30 is basically the same as that of the guidance device 20. However, the electronic ledger 30 has additional functions unique to it, including a function to assist in the creation of slips to be used in transactions selected by the customer, and a function to upload the information of the created slips to a server (not shown). Furthermore, the electronic ledger 30 in this embodiment also has a function to print a receipt with a QR code that links the customer operating the transaction machine with the information of the uploaded slips.

[0024] <Currency exchange machine> Next, we will explain the configuration of a currency exchange machine 40 (see Figure 1), which is an example of a trading machine. Figure 6 illustrates an example of the hardware and functional configuration of the currency exchange machine 40. The currency exchange machine 40 includes a control unit 41 that controls the movement of the entire device, a touch panel 42, a loose coin handling unit 43, a roll generation unit 44, a loose banknote handling unit 45, a receipt printing unit 46, a card reader 47A, a QR code reader 47B, a storage unit 48, and a communication unit 49.

[0025] The touch panel 42, like the touch panel 23 (see Figure 3) provided on the guidance device 20 (see Figure 1), is composed of a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (=Electro Luminescence) display and a capacitive film sensor. The touch panel 42 displays the amount of money deposited by the customer, as well as buttons that allow the customer to specify the denominations and quantities of each denomination they wish to withdraw. The denominations and quantities that can be specified are limited to be equivalent to the amount of money deposited. Furthermore, when a customer card containing transaction history is inserted into the card slot, the touch panel 42 displays the record of the previous transaction.

[0026] The loose coin handling unit 43 is a mechanism that receives loose coins inserted into the slot. Loose coins refer to coins that are separated into individual pieces. The loose coin handling unit 43 is equipped with a dispensing unit that feeds out loose coins one by one into a transport path, and an identification unit that identifies the denomination, authenticity, condition, age, etc. of the transported coins. Loose coins identified as abnormal are discharged, for example, from an outlet not shown. Loose coins identified as normal are stored in a temporary holding area until the exchange order is confirmed. After the exchange order is confirmed, the loose coins stored in the temporary holding area are transported to storage areas for each denomination.

[0027] The coin bar generation unit 44 is a mechanism that packages loose coins of the same denomination in predetermined numbers (for example, 50 coins) to produce cylindrical packaged coins (i.e., coin bars). In addition, the coin bar generation unit 44 discharges the coin bars of the denomination and number specified by the customer from the coin bar discharge port, and also transfers the generated coin bars to the coin bar storage unit. Once the coin bar generation unit 44 starts the process of generating coin bars, the acceptance of customer transactions is suspended until the coin bar generation is complete. The process of generating coin bars is an example of an automatic collection process (or collection process). Note that the automatic collection process is an example of a predetermined process. Therefore, the process of generating coin bars is an example of a predetermined process.

[0028] The loose banknote handling unit 45 is a mechanism that performs the process of storing loose banknotes inserted into the banknote deposit / discharge slot into a storage unit, and the process of discharging loose banknotes stored in the storage unit, etc., from the banknote deposit / discharge slot. Loose banknotes refer to banknotes that are in a state where each banknote is separate. The loose banknote handling unit 45 is also equipped with an identification unit that identifies the denomination, authenticity, condition, newness, etc., of the inserted loose banknotes. Loose banknotes identified as abnormal are ejected from an unillustrated outlet or banknote deposit / withdrawal slot. In this embodiment, loose coins and loose banknotes are collectively referred to as loose currency.

[0029] The receipt printing unit 46 is a mechanism that prints transaction details onto a receipt and ejects it from the output slot. The receipt printing unit 46 is a thermal printer. The card reader 47A is a mechanism that reads the currency exchange pattern information recorded on a customer card inserted into a card slot (not shown). The currency exchange pattern information is a detailed record of the currency exchange patterns registered by customers who regularly use the currency exchange machine 40. The currency exchange pattern read from the customer card is preferentially displayed on the touch panel 42. If the same currency exchange pattern is repeated each time, the customer can avoid the trouble of entering the currency exchange pattern each time.

[0030] The QR code reader 47B is a device that reads QR codes printed on receipts, etc., output by the information device 20 (see Figure 1) or the electronic registration desk 30 (see Figure 1). For example, a reception number can be read from the QR code. The memory unit 48 consists of a non-volatile storage device such as a hard disk drive and is used to record transaction history. The communication unit 49 is a communication device used for communication with external terminals.

[0031] The control unit 41 includes a CPU, ROM containing the BIOS and other data, and RAM used as a work area. The control unit 41 is essentially a computer and implements various functions through program execution. In this embodiment, some of the functions realized through the execution of the program include an operation reception unit 41A that receives customer instructions via a touch panel 42, a currency exchange processing unit 41B that controls the currency exchange process of money inserted into the machine, an automatic collection processing unit 41C that automatically controls the generation and cessation of currency roll generation by a currency roll generation unit 44, an automatic verification processing unit 41D that automatically verifies the amount of banknotes, coins, and currency rolls in the machine, a processing unit control unit 41E that controls the operating status of the aforementioned functions, and a pending transaction management unit 41F that manages currency exchange processes waiting to be processed.

[0032] The operation reception unit 41A performs processes such as receiving input for the transaction desired by the user and displaying the operation screen on the touch panel 42. Once the details of the exchange specified by the customer are confirmed, the currency exchange processing unit 41B controls the dispensing unit (not shown) to dispense the currency. The currency exchange processing unit 41B is an example of a transaction processing unit. The automatic collection processing unit 41C controls the execution of coin bar generation by the coin bar generation unit 44. When the automatic collection processing unit 41C detects that the number of loose coins stored in the device exceeds a predetermined number, it instructs the coin bar generation unit 44 to start generating coin bars. The number of loose coins is determined for each denomination.

[0033] The automatic verification processing unit 41D performs verification, which is a process of automatically matching the number of banknotes, coins, and rolls of money stored in the device with the inventory data, when predetermined conditions are met. The automatic verification processing unit 41D instructs the loose coin handling unit 43 and the loose banknote handling unit 45 to dispense the loose banknotes and loose coins stored in the device one by one and recount them by denomination. The automatic verification processing unit 41D also instructs the execution of a process to recount the number of rolls of money. Verification by the automatic verification processing unit 41D can be selectively performed on at least one of the banknotes, coins, and rolls of money. When the automated verification processing unit 41D starts verification, customer transaction acceptance is suspended until the verification is stopped or completed. Note that the automated verification process (or verification process) performed by the automated verification processing unit 41D is just one example of a predetermined process. The predetermined conditions include, for example, when a reserved date and time arrives, when the number of banknotes and coins stored exceeds or falls below a predetermined threshold, when the exact amount of money in the device becomes unknown (in other words, when it can no longer be guaranteed), or when the operator executes the "automatic verification menu".

[0034] The processing unit control unit 41E is a functional unit that controls the operation of the processing unit according to the operating status within the device when it receives notification of a potential transaction from a guidance device 20 (see Figure 1) or an electronic ledger 30 (see Figure 1), which are not shown. The processing unit 41E executes a control to stop the automatic collection process or automatic verification process if it is in progress when it receives notification of a potential transaction. Although stopping each process requires a predetermined amount of time, if the automatic collection process or automatic verification process can be stopped before the customer arrives at the currency exchange machine 40, the customer can start the transaction without waiting. Furthermore, even if the automatic collection process or automatic verification process cannot be stopped in time before the customer arrives at the currency exchange machine 40, the waiting time until the customer can operate the machine can be reduced.

[0035] Furthermore, when an ongoing transaction is completed, if there is an automated collection process or automated scrutiny process that has been forcibly stopped, the processing unit 41E will instruct the restart of the stopped automated collection process or automated scrutiny process when the predetermined restart conditions are met. The conditions for resuming a transaction include, for example, the absence of any other transactions expected to be processed, or the fact that a predetermined amount of time has elapsed without any transactions being initiated, even if there are other transactions expected to be processed.

[0036] In addition, when the processing unit 41E receives notification of a potential transaction, if the loose coin handling unit 43, the loose banknote handling unit 45, etc., are in sleep mode, it executes a process to wake up each unit. Although it takes a predetermined amount of time to wake up each unit from sleep mode, it is possible to wake up each unit to a state where it can accept transactions before the customer arrives at the currency exchange machine 40 and starts the transaction operation. Furthermore, even if it is not possible to wake up each unit from sleep mode before the customer arrives at the currency exchange machine 40, it is possible to shorten the waiting time before the customer can operate the machine. Incidentally, the functions of the processing unit 41E described here can also be applied when the loose coin handling unit 43, the loose banknote handling unit 45, etc. are in a dormant state at the time of receiving notification of a potential transaction. In this case, the term "sleeping" in the above explanation should be read as "dormant state".

[0037] Furthermore, the processing unit 41E controls the touch panel 42, loose coin handling unit 43, coin roll generation unit 44, loose banknote handling unit 45, receipt printing unit 46, card reader 47A, QR recorder 47B, and memory unit 48 to a sleep state, provided that predetermined conditions are met when a customer transaction is completed. Each of these units consumes a large amount of power to operate the mechanism. Therefore, when predetermined conditions are met, they are controlled to a sleep state to suppress power consumption. The predetermined conditions include, for example, that there are no other transactions pending processing at the time the transaction is completed, and that a specified amount of time has elapsed since the completion of the transaction was confirmed.

[0038] The pending transaction management unit 41F manages the number of expected transactions notified by the guidance device 20 (see Figure 1) and the electronic ledger 30 (see Figure 1), and the number of transactions that have actually been executed. However, instead of managing the number of executed transactions, the pending transaction management unit 41F may compare the number of expected transactions with the number of actual transactions. Furthermore, it is assumed that the customer operates either or both the guidance device 20 and the electronic ledger 30, and if the customer operates the electronic ledger 30 after operating the guidance device 20, the notification of the prospective transaction will be linked through information sharing.

[0039] The number of pending transactions is reduced by one each time a transaction corresponding to a notification is initiated. Similarly, if a transaction corresponding to a notification is canceled by the guidance device 20 or the electronic ledger 30, the number of pending transactions is also reduced by one. The number of pending transactions becomes zero when the transaction for the last accepted pending transaction is initiated. The estimated number of pending transactions managed by the pending transaction management unit 41F is notified to the processing unit control unit 41E. The pending transaction management unit 41F is an example of a management unit.

[0040] <Deposit and withdrawal machine> Next, we will explain the configuration of a deposit / withdrawal machine 50 (see Figure 1), which is an example of a trading machine. Figure 7 illustrates an example of the hardware and functional configuration of the deposit / withdrawal machine 50. The deposit and withdrawal machine 50 includes a control unit 51 that controls the movement of the entire device, a touch panel 52, a loose coin handling unit 53, a roll of coins generating unit 54, a loose banknote handling unit 55, a banded banknote generating unit 56, a receipt printing unit 57, a card reader 58A, a QR code reader 58B, a storage unit 59A, and a communication unit 59B.

[0041] For the sake of explanation, the hardware configuration of the deposit / withdrawal machine 50 shown in Figure 7 will be described as being almost the same as the hardware configuration of the currency exchange machine 40 (see Figure 6). The actual hardware configuration of the deposit / withdrawal machine 50 varies and may differ from that of the currency exchange machine 40. Incidentally, the banded banknote generation unit 56 is a mechanism that generates bundles of banknotes (hereinafter referred to as "bundle banknotes" or "banded banknotes") in which loose banknotes of the same denomination are banded together in predetermined numbers (for example, 100 banknotes). After the banded banknote generation unit 56 starts the process of generating banded banknotes, the acceptance of customer transactions is suspended until the generation of banded banknotes is complete. The process of generating banded banknotes by the banded banknote generation unit 56 is also an example of an automatic collection process. Since the automatic collection process is an example of a predetermined process, the process of generating banded banknotes is also an example of a predetermined process.

[0042] The card reader 58A is a mechanism that reads account information recorded on customer cards. The QR code reader 58B is used to read QR codes printed on receipts, etc., output by the guidance device 20 (see Figure 1) or the electronic register desk 30 (see Figure 1). If an electronic slip is linked to the read QR code, the slip data generated by the electronic register desk 30 is downloaded from a server (not shown) via the communication unit 59B. The slip data may also be contained within the QR code itself.

[0043] The control unit 51 includes a CPU, ROM containing the BIOS and other data, and RAM used as a work area. The control unit 51 is essentially a computer and implements various functions through program execution. In this embodiment, as part of the functions realized through the execution of the program, the following are represented: an operation reception unit 51A that receives customer instructions via a touch panel 52; a deposit processing unit 51B that performs deposit processing for money inserted into the machine; a withdrawal processing unit 51C that performs withdrawal processing for an amount of money specified from the customer's account; a transfer processing unit 51D that performs transfer processing to an account specified by the customer; a tax and public funds processing unit 51E that performs collection processing for taxes and public funds; an automatic collection processing unit 51F that controls the generation of rolls by the roll generation unit 54 and the generation of banded banknotes by the banded banknote generation unit 56; an automatic verification processing unit 51G that controls the verification of the amount of banknotes, coins, rolls, and bundled banknotes in the machine; a processing unit control unit 51H that controls the operating status of each function unit; and a pending transaction management unit 51J that manages transactions awaiting processing.

[0044] Of these, the deposit processing unit 51B performs the processing to reflect the amount of money deposited by the customer in the customer's account data. The deposit processing unit 51B is an example of a transaction processing unit. The withdrawal processing unit 51C dispenses the amount of money specified by the customer and performs processing to reflect it in the customer's account data. The withdrawal processing unit 51C is an example of a transaction processing unit. The transfer processing unit 51D performs the following operations: reflecting the amount deposited by the customer in the data of the account specified by the customer, or deducting the amount specified by the customer from the customer's account data and reflecting that amount in the data of the account specified by the customer. The transfer processing unit 51D is an example of a transaction processing unit. The tax and public funds processing unit 51E performs the process of recording the receipt of the amount deposited by the customer, or the process of deducting it from the customer's account data. The tax and public funds processing unit 51E is an example of a transaction processing unit. The automatic collection processing unit 51F controls the execution of the production of banknotes by the banknote production unit 54 and the production of banknotes with bands by the banknote production unit 56. The automated inspection processing unit 51G selectively inspects at least one of the following: banknotes, coins, rolls of money, or banded banknotes. Note that the pending transaction management unit 51J is an example of a management unit.

[0045] <Processing Actions> <Example of operation 1> Figure 8 shows an example of processing operations performed by the transaction processing system 1 used in Embodiment 1. In Figure 8, the guidance device 20 (see Figure 1) and the electronic register desk 30 (see Figure 1) are collectively referred to as the transaction reception machine, and the currency exchange machine 40 (see Figure 1) and the deposit / withdrawal machine 50 (see Figure 1) are collectively referred to as the transaction machine. When a customer operates the transaction machine, the machine accepts the details of the transaction the customer desires (Step 1). The customer specifies, for example, the purpose of their visit, such as currency exchange or deposit. Note that one customer may specify multiple purposes.

[0046] The transaction reception machine then notifies the transaction machine corresponding to the received information that a transaction is likely to occur (Step 2). For example, if the purpose of the visit is currency exchange, the transaction reception machine notifies the currency exchange machine 40 that a transaction is likely to occur. Also, for example, if the purpose of the visit is a deposit, the transaction reception machine notifies the deposit / withdrawal machine 50 that a transaction is likely to occur. In the case of the guidance device 20, it displays a screen guiding the customer to their destination and outputs a receipt with the reception number and other information printed on it. Incidentally, if there are many people waiting at the trading machine to which the customer is directed, and it is not expected that the customer will be able to start trading immediately, the receipt may be printed with the number of people waiting, or it may be printed with information guiding the customer to a place to wait until it is their turn (for example, a chair in the lobby). In addition, in the case of the electronic ledger desk 30, it displays an input screen for the electronic slip corresponding to the transaction selected by the customer and accepts the customer's input of the slip.

[0047] On the other hand, when the trading machine detects a notification of a potential transaction (step 3), it determines whether or not it is currently performing automated processing (step 4). In this embodiment, the automated processing includes both automated data collection and automated data verification. If an automated data collection process or automated verification process was being performed, the trading machine will obtain a positive result in step 4. If a negative result is obtained in step 4, the trading machine terminates the process that began with the notification of the potential for a trade. Incidentally, the system may also determine whether or not the transaction is currently being performed by a bank employee (hereinafter referred to as "employee"), and if an employee is performing the transaction, it may display on the machine's screen that a potential transaction has occurred to alert the employee.

[0048] If a positive result is obtained in step 4, the trading machine controls the stopping of the ongoing automated process (step 5). The stopping of the automated process by the trading machine is initiated while the customer is at the trading reception machine's location. A predetermined amount of time is required between the instruction to stop the automated process and its actual stopping. However, unlike conventional trading machines where it was necessary to wait for the automatically started automated process to finish naturally, the trading machine used in this embodiment can eliminate or significantly reduce customer waiting time.

[0049] After step 5 is completed, the trading machine enters a state where it awaits customer input. When the customer then operates the trading machine's touch panel, the machine accepts the customer's instructions and processes the corresponding trade (step 6). Next, the trading machine determines whether or not the processing of the customer's transaction is complete (step 7). As long as a negative result is obtained in step 7, the trading machine repeats the determination in step 7. Once the processing of a customer's transaction is complete, the trading machine determines whether there are any automated processes that were forcibly stopped during execution (Step 8). If a negative result is obtained in step 8, the trading machine terminates the process that began with the notification of the potential for a trade.

[0050] If there was an automated process that was forcibly stopped during execution, the trading machine obtains a positive result in step 8. In this case, the trading machine determines whether the conditions for restarting the stopped automated process are met (step 9). For example, if there are other potential transactions waiting to be processed, the trading machine obtains a negative result in step 9. In this case, the trading machine executes the processes corresponding to the other transactions until the conditions for restarting the automated process are met. Furthermore, if there are no longer any pending transactions, or if there are still pending transactions but the customer has not initiated a transaction for any reason and a predetermined amount of time has elapsed, the trading machine will obtain a positive result in step 9. After this, the trading machine resumes the automated processing that was stopped (Step 10).

[0051] <Example of operation 2> Figure 9 shows another example of processing operations performed by the transaction processing system 1 used in Embodiment 1. Figure 9 is denoted with reference numerals corresponding to the parts that correspond to those in Figure 8. In the case of Figure 9, the guidance device 20 (see Figure 1) and the electronic register desk 30 (see Figure 1) are collectively referred to as the transaction reception machine, and the currency exchange machine 40 (see Figure 1) and the deposit / withdrawal machine 50 (see Figure 1) are collectively referred to as the transaction machine. In example 2, when the trading machine detects a notification of a potential trade (step 3), it determines whether or not it is in sleep mode (step 4A). The transition to sleep mode is performed to reduce power consumption when a predetermined period of time has elapsed without any customer activity.

[0052] If a negative result is obtained in step 4A (i.e., if it is operational), the trading machine terminates the process that was initiated by the notification of the potential occurrence of a trade. On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 4A, the trading machine performs the process of waking up from sleep mode (step 5A). After this, the trading machine performs the same process as in step 6 in Figure 8. Therefore, the explanation of this process is omitted. Furthermore, after obtaining a negative result in step 4A, the trading machine may execute the process in step 4 shown in Figure 8 (i.e., the process of determining whether or not automatic processing is in progress).

[0053] <Embodiment 2> In the first embodiment described above, a function was provided within the trading machine to forcibly stop an ongoing automated process triggered by the occurrence of a potential transaction. In this embodiment, however, a case in which the same function is provided in the trading reception machine will be described.

[0054] <Transaction acceptance machine> Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware and functional configuration of the guide device 20 used in Embodiment 2. Figure 10 is denoted by reference numerals corresponding to the parts that correspond to those in Figure 3. The hardware configuration is the same as in Embodiment 1. That is, the guidance device 20 consists of a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, a touch panel 23, a receipt printing unit 24, and a communication unit 25.

[0055] In this embodiment, the control unit 21 includes, in addition to the desired transaction reception unit 21A, the reception notification unit 21B, and the destination guidance unit 21C, a transaction machine status acquisition unit 21D that acquires the status of the transaction machine, an automatic processing forced stop unit 21E that forcibly stops automatic processing that is running on the transaction machine, a transaction waiting to be processed management unit 21F that acquires information on transactions waiting to be processed from the transaction machine, an automatic processing restart control unit 21G that controls the restart of automatic processing when there are automatic processes that have been forcibly stopped, and a start control unit 21H that starts up the transaction machine that is in sleep mode when a desired transaction is accepted.

[0056] In this embodiment, the trading machine status acquisition unit 21D acquires the status of the trading machine through communication with the trading machine that will process the desired transaction each time it receives a selection of a desired transaction from a customer. However, the trading machine status acquisition unit 21D may also employ a mechanism to receive notifications from the trading machine whenever there is a change in the processing status. In this embodiment, the automatic processing forced stop unit 21E instructs the automatic processing to be forcibly stopped if automatic processing is being executed on the trading machine corresponding to the desired transaction. Therefore, if automatic processing is not being executed on the trading machine corresponding to the desired transaction, the automatic processing forced stop unit 21E does not output a notification to the trading machine. Information on whether or not automatic processing is being executed is obtained from the trading machine status acquisition unit 21D.

[0057] In this embodiment, the pending transaction management unit 21F manages whether there are other pending transactions when a customer's transaction is completed on a trading machine whose automatic processing has been forcibly stopped. In this embodiment, the guidance device 20 manages the number of expected transactions received by its own machine and the electronic ledger 30, and the number of transactions that have been processed, and determines whether there are any other pending transactions remaining. The result of the determination is provided to the automatic processing restart control unit 21G. The automatic processing restart control unit 21G determines whether the conditions for restarting automatic processing are met each time a customer transaction is completed on a trading machine that has forcibly stopped automatic processing. If the conditions are met, it instructs the trading machine to restart automatic processing.

[0058] The startup control unit 21H, if the corresponding trading machine is in sleep mode when it receives a request for a trade, instructs the target trading machine to start up from sleep mode. In this embodiment, the pending transaction management unit 21F and the automatic processing restart control unit 21G are examples of management units. Furthermore, the additional functions mentioned above, namely the trading machine status acquisition unit 21D, the automatic processing forced stop unit 21E, the transaction management unit 21F, the automatic processing restart control unit 21G, and the startup control unit 21H, can also be installed on the electronic ledger 30.

[0059] <Trading machine> In this embodiment, the trading machine does not need to have a function to manage the forced cessation of automated processing performed by the trading acceptance machine, nor a function to manage the resumption of automated processing; it only needs to operate according to instructions from an external source. However, it is also possible for the trading machine to manage the forced cessation of automated processing and the restart of automated processing, or conversely, for the trading machine to manage the forced cessation of automated processing and the restart of automated processing. The same applies to the function that controls the waking up from sleep mode.

[0060] <Processing Actions> Figure 11 shows an example of processing operations performed by the transaction processing system 1 used in Embodiment 2. Figure 11 is denoted with reference numerals corresponding to the parts that correspond to those in Figure 8. In the case of Figure 11, the guidance device 20 (see Figure 1) and the electronic register desk 30 (see Figure 1) are collectively referred to as the transaction reception machine, and the currency exchange machine 40 (see Figure 1) and the deposit / withdrawal machine 50 (see Figure 1) are collectively referred to as the transaction machine.

[0061] In this embodiment as well, when a customer operates the transaction acceptance machine, the machine accepts the details of the transaction desired by the customer (Step 1). Next, the trading machine retrieves the status of the machine that will process the desired trade (step 11). Next, the trading machine determines whether the target trading machine is currently performing automated processing (step 12). If a negative result is obtained in step 12, the transaction acceptance machine terminates the process that began with the acceptance of the desired transaction.

[0062] If a positive result is obtained in step 12, the trading machine instructs the machine to stop the ongoing automated process (step 13). Upon receiving this instruction, the trading machine controls the machine to stop the ongoing automated process (step 5). After step 13 is completed, if the transaction reception machine receives multiple transactions, it determines the order of transactions to minimize waiting time and presents it to the customer (step 14). This function is performed by the destination guidance unit 21C. For example, if a customer requests currency exchange and deposit as their purpose of visit, the destinations will be the currency exchange machine 40 (see Figure 1) and the deposit / withdrawal machine 50 (see Figure 1). In this case, if the currency exchange machine 40 is performing an automatic process but the deposit / withdrawal machine 50 is waiting for a transaction, the transaction reception machine will output a message instructing the customer to start the transaction at the deposit / withdrawal machine 50 first.

[0063] On the other hand, the automatic processing at the currency exchange machine 40 is likely to be completed by the time the deposit at the deposit / withdrawal machine 50 is finished. Therefore, customers can use the service with no waiting time, or even if they have to wait for the automatic processing to stop, the waiting time will be shorter compared to going to the currency exchange machine 40 first. For example, if there are no people waiting for the currency exchange machine 40, but there are 3 people waiting for the deposit / withdrawal machine 50, the destination guidance unit 21C will guide the customer to start their transaction at the currency exchange machine 40 first. In this case, if the automatic processing at the currency exchange machine 40 is completed by the time the customer arrives at the currency exchange machine 40, the transaction can begin immediately. Although there will be a queue for the deposit / withdrawal machine 50, the waiting time until their turn will be shorter due to the time it took for the transaction at the currency exchange machine 40.

[0064] At the trading machine to which the customer is directed, after the automated processing stops, the customer will execute the transaction they instructed (Step 15). Next, the transaction receiving machine determines whether or not the transaction processing is complete (step 16). As long as a negative result is obtained in step 16, the transaction receiving machine repeats the determination in step 16. Once the transaction processing is complete, the transaction receiving machine determines whether or not there are any automated processes that were forcibly stopped during execution (step 17). If a negative result is obtained in step 17, the transaction acceptance machine terminates the process that began with the acceptance of the desired transaction.

[0065] If there is an automated process that was forcibly stopped during execution for a trading machine that processes a desired trade, the trading machine obtains a positive result in step 17. In this case, the trading machine determines whether the conditions for restarting the stopped automated process are met (step 18). For example, if there are other trades waiting to be processed, the trading machine obtains a negative result in step 18. In this case, the trading machine repeats the determination in step 18 until the conditions for restarting the automated process are met.

[0066] Furthermore, if there are no more transactions awaiting processing, or if there are prospects for transactions awaiting processing, but the transaction acceptance machine confirms that a predetermined amount of time has elapsed without the customer initiating a transaction for any reason, the machine will obtain a positive result in step 18. Next, the trading machine instructs the stopped automated processing to resume (step 19). Upon receiving the instruction, the trading machine resumes the stopped automated processing (step 10). Figure 11 illustrates the process when executing automated processing, but the transaction acceptance machine also controls the wake-up from sleep mode.

[0067] Figure 12 shows another example of processing operations performed by the transaction processing system 1 used in Embodiment 2. Figure 12 is denoted with reference numerals corresponding to the parts that correspond to those in Figure 9. In the case of Figure 12, the guidance device 20 (see Figure 1) and the electronic register desk 30 (see Figure 1) are collectively referred to as the transaction reception machine, and the currency exchange machine 40 (see Figure 1) and the deposit / withdrawal machine 50 (see Figure 1) are collectively referred to as the transaction machine.

[0068] In this embodiment, the transaction receiving machine determines whether the target transaction machine is in sleep mode or not (step 12A). If a negative result is obtained in step 12A, the transaction acceptance machine terminates the process that began with the acceptance of the desired transaction. On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 12A, the trading acceptance machine instructs the target trading machine to start up (step 13A). Upon receiving this notification, the trading machine performs the process of waking up from sleep mode (step 5A).

[0069] After step 13 is completed, if the transaction receiving machine receives multiple transactions, it determines the order of the transactions to minimize waiting time and presents it to the customer (step 14). After this, the transaction receiving machine performs the same process as in step 16 in Figure 11. Therefore, the explanation of this process is omitted. Furthermore, after obtaining a negative result in step 12A, the transaction receiving machine may execute the process in step 12 in Figure 11 (i.e., the process of determining whether or not automatic processing is in progress).

[0070] <Embodiment 3> In the first embodiment described above, a case was described in which a function to forcibly stop an ongoing automated process triggered by the occurrence of a potential transaction was provided within the trading machine. In the second embodiment described above, a case was described in which a function to forcibly stop an ongoing automated process triggered by the occurrence of a potential transaction was provided within the trading reception machine. However, in this embodiment, a case in which the same function is provided in an external device will be described.

[0071] <System Configuration> Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating the network configuration used in the transaction processing system 1 used in Embodiment 3. Figure 13 is denoted with reference numerals corresponding to the parts that correspond to those in Figure 2. The difference from Embodiments 1 and 2 described above is that the management server 70 is connected to the network 60. In this embodiment, the management server 70 is provided with a function to forcibly stop the automatic processing of the currency exchange machine 40 and the deposit / withdrawal machine 50, and a function to wake it up from sleep mode. The management server 70 here is an example of a control device. The currency exchange machine 40 and the deposit / withdrawal machine 50 are examples of transaction processing devices.

[0072] Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware and functional configuration of the management server 70 used in Embodiment 3. The management server 70 includes a control unit 71 that controls the operation of the entire device, a storage unit 72, and a communication unit 73. The control unit 71 includes a CPU, ROM containing the BIOS and other data, and RAM used as a work area. The control unit 71 is essentially a computer and implements various functions through program execution. The memory unit 72 is a hard disk drive or semiconductor memory, and stores basic software and application programs.

[0073] In the case of Figure 14, the control unit 71 includes, as part of the functions realized through the execution of the program, a reception detection unit 71A that detects the reception of a desired transaction by the transaction reception machine, a transaction machine status acquisition unit 71B that acquires the status of the transaction machine, an automatic processing forced stop unit 71C that forcibly stops automatic processing that is running on the transaction machine, a transaction waiting to be processed management unit 71D that acquires information on transactions waiting to be processed from the transaction machine, an automatic processing restart control unit 71E that controls the restart of automatic processing when there are automatic processes that have been forcibly stopped, and a start control unit 71F that starts up the transaction machine which is in a sleep state when a desired transaction is received.

[0074] In this embodiment, the reception detection unit 71A detects the acceptance of a desired transaction through communication with the guidance device 20 (see Figure 13) or the electronic register desk 30 (see Figure 13). Alternatively, the occurrence of a desired transaction may be detected through communication with the currency exchange machine 40 (see Figure 13) or the deposit / withdrawal machine 50 (see Figure 13) that has received notification of the desired transaction. The reception detection unit 71A is an example of a reception unit. The trading machine status acquisition unit 71B, the automatic processing forced stop unit 71C, the pending transaction management unit 71D, the automatic processing restart control unit 71E, and the startup control unit 71F correspond to the trading machine status acquisition unit 21D, the automatic processing forced stop unit 21E, the pending transaction management unit 21F, the automatic processing restart control unit 21G, and the startup control unit 21H of Embodiment 2.

[0075] <Processing Actions> Figure 15 shows an example of processing operations performed by the transaction processing system 1 used in Embodiment 3. Figure 15 is denoted with reference numerals corresponding to the parts that correspond to those in Figure 8. In Figure 15, the guidance device 20 (see Figure 1) and the electronic register desk 30 (see Figure 1) are collectively referred to as the transaction reception machine, and the currency exchange machine 40 (see Figure 1) and the deposit / withdrawal machine 50 (see Figure 1) are collectively referred to as the transaction machine. The processing operation shown in Figure 15 is an example of a transaction processing method.

[0076] When a customer operates the transaction acceptance machine, the machine accepts the details of the transaction the customer desires (Step 1). Upon receiving a request for a transaction, the transaction reception unit notifies the management server 70 of the expected occurrence of the transaction (step 21). This notification includes information identifying the details of the transaction and the transaction machine that will process it.

[0077] The management server 70 detects the notification of the occurrence of a potential transaction (step 22). Upon detecting the notification, the management server 70 obtains the processing status of the target trading machine (step 23). Next, the management server 70 determines whether the target trading machine is currently executing automated processing (step 24). If a negative result is obtained in step 24, the management server 70 terminates the process that was initiated upon receiving notification of the potential occurrence of a transaction.

[0078] If a positive result is obtained in step 24, the management server 70 instructs the target trading machine to stop the ongoing automated processing (step 25). Upon receiving the notification, the trading machine stops the automated processing in progress (step 5). After this, the trading machine accepts customer instructions and executes the corresponding transaction processing (step 6). Meanwhile, after step 25 is executed, the management server 70 determines whether or not the trading machine's transaction processing has finished (step 26). As long as a negative result is obtained in step 26, the management server 70 repeats the determination in step 26. If a positive result is obtained in step 26, the management server 70 determines whether or not there is an automated process that was forcibly stopped while it was running (step 27). If a negative result is obtained in step 27, the management server 70 terminates the process that began with the notification of the potential occurrence of a transaction.

[0079] If there is an automated process that was forcibly stopped during execution, the management server 70 obtains a positive result in step 27. In this case, the management server 70 determines whether the conditions for restarting the stopped automated process are met (step 28). For example, if there are other transactions waiting to be processed, the management server 70 obtains a negative result in step 28. In this case, the management server 70 repeats the determination in step 28. Furthermore, if there are no more transactions awaiting processing, or if there are prospects for transactions awaiting processing, but a predetermined amount of time has elapsed without the customer initiating a transaction for any reason, the management server 70 obtains a positive result in step 28.

[0080] Next, the management server 70 instructs the corresponding trading machine to resume the stopped automated processing (step 29). The trading machine that receives the instruction resumes the stopped automated processing (step 10). In addition, in the case of the management server 70, as in the embodiment described above, when it detects the occurrence of a potential transaction, it determines whether the target trading machine is in a sleep state or not, and if it is in a sleep state, it executes a process to instruct it to start up. This determination is performed between step 23 and step 24.

[0081] <Embodiment 4> This embodiment describes a case where the management server 70 (see Figure 13) of Embodiment 3 utilizes information on the processing capacity of each employee by industry. Note that the processing capacity by industry is managed for each employee. Furthermore, the management server 70 in this embodiment centrally manages the management data of receipts output by the guidance device 20. Figure 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware and functional configuration of the guidance device 20 used in Embodiment 4. Figure 16 is denoted by reference numerals corresponding to the parts that correspond to those in Figure 3.

[0082] The guidance device 20 in this embodiment also consists of a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, a touch panel 23, a receipt printing unit 24, and a communication unit 25. In this embodiment, the memory unit 22 stores the processing capacity 22A for each industry by person in charge, the number of industry-specific service counters currently available 22B, and the current service counter staff member 22C. This information is obtained from the management server 70. The control unit 21 shown in Figure 16 has a waiting time calculation unit 21J in addition to the functional units described in Embodiment 1, namely the desired transaction acceptance unit 21A, acceptance notification unit 21B, and destination guidance unit 21C.

[0083] The waiting time calculation unit 21J uses the information 22A, 22B, and 22C stored in the memory unit 22 to calculate the waiting time for each desired transaction and displays it on the touch panel 23. Knowing the processing capacity of each industry handled by the current counter staff makes it possible to calculate and provide customers with waiting times that are closer to actual values.

[0084] In this embodiment, the guidance device 20 used in Embodiment 1 is equipped with a function to calculate the waiting time based on the processing capacity of the counter staff member for each type of business they are in charge of. However, the same function may be added to the guidance device 20 used in Embodiments 2 and 3. Furthermore, although this embodiment assumes implementation on the guidance device 20, the same function may also be implemented on the electronic register desk 30. Alternatively, the management server 70 may be provided with a function to calculate waiting times based on the processing capacity of each service provider, and the calculated results may be notified to the guidance device 20.

[0085] <Other Embodiments> Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. It is clear from the claims that various modifications or improvements to the embodiments described above are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0086] For example, in the embodiment described above, the transaction processing system 1 was described on the premise that it is built in the lobby 10 of a financial institution, but the transaction processing system 1 may also be built in a government office, a hospital, or the like. In the above-described embodiment, a currency exchange machine 40 and a deposit / withdrawal machine 50 were given as examples of transaction machines, but other currency processing machines or machines that handle items other than currency may also be used. For example, machines that handle gift certificates, bills of exchange, checks, or securities may also be used. In addition, machines that process application forms used in administrative services as transactions may also be used. Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, automatic collection processing and automatic verification processing were given as examples of predetermined processing, but predetermined processing also includes deposit processing, withdrawal processing, loading processing, collection processing, etc., which are performed by human operators. [Explanation of symbols]

[0087] 1...Transaction processing system, 20...Information device, 30...Electronic ledger, 40...Currency exchange machine, 50...Deposit / withdrawal machine, 60...Network, 70...Management server

Claims

1. A first device having a reception section that accepts financial transactions requested by the user, A second device having a transaction processing unit for processing the aforementioned financial transactions, If, while the second device is executing a predetermined process, the transaction processing unit of the first device receives a financial transaction to be processed, the second device stops the predetermined process that is currently running, and, based on an operation in the second device, instructs the transaction processing unit to process the financial transaction. If a predetermined time has elapsed without the processing of the pending financial transaction being started, the control unit instructs the second device to resume the predetermined process that was stopped. A transaction processing system having the following features.

2. The aforementioned predetermined process is the collection process of packaging loose coins. The transaction processing system according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned predetermined process is a verification process that matches the amount of money in the second device. The transaction processing system according to claim 1.

4. After the processing of the financial transaction by the second device is completed, the control unit instructs the second device to resume the predetermined processing that was stopped. A transaction processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The system further includes a management unit that manages the financial transactions awaiting processing by the transaction processing unit of the second device, based on the number of financial transactions received by the reception unit and the number of financial transactions processed by the transaction processing unit of the second device. If the financial transaction awaiting processing remains in the second device, even after the transaction processing unit of the second device has completed processing the financial transaction, the control unit will not instruct the second device to resume the predetermined processing that was stopped during execution. The transaction processing system according to claim 4.

6. When the processing of the financial transaction by the second device is completed and there are no more financial transactions waiting to be processed, the control unit instructs the second device to resume the predetermined processing that was stopped during execution. The transaction processing system according to claim 5.

7. The system further includes a management unit that manages the financial transactions awaiting processing by the transaction processing unit of the second device, based on the number of financial transactions received by the reception unit and the number of financial transactions completed by the transaction processing unit of the second device. If the financial transaction awaiting processing remains in the second device, the control unit will not put the second device into sleep mode even after the transaction processing unit of the second device has completed processing the financial transaction. The transaction processing system according to claim 1.

8. The first device further includes a guidance unit that guides the user to the destination corresponding to the financial transaction received, If the reception unit receives multiple financial transactions from a single user, the control unit sets an order for processing the multiple financial transactions based on the state of the second device that processes the multiple financial transactions, and causes the guidance unit to execute guidance based on the set order. A transaction processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The first apparatus includes the control unit, A transaction processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The first device is an electronic register desk that receives electronic record data input by the user and outputs the received record data. A transaction processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A transaction processing method executed by a transaction processing system, The reception device processes the financial transactions requested by the user, If the control device receives a financial transaction to be processed by the transaction processing device based on an operation of the receiving unit of the receiving device while the transaction processing device is performing a predetermined process, the control device stops the predetermined process that the transaction processing device is currently performing, and, based on an operation in the transaction processing device, instructs the transaction processing device to perform the processing of the financial transaction. If a predetermined time has elapsed without the processing of the pending financial transaction being started, the control device instructs the transaction processing device to resume the predetermined process that was stopped. A transaction processing method having the following characteristics.

12. A reception desk that accepts financial transactions requested by users, If, while the transaction processing device that processes the aforementioned financial transaction is executing a predetermined process, the receiving unit receives the financial transaction to be processed by the transaction processing device based on an operation of the receiving unit, the control unit stops the predetermined process that the transaction processing device is executing, and, based on an operation of the transaction processing device, instructs the transaction processing device to execute the processing of the financial transaction, and if a predetermined time has elapsed without the processing of the pending financial transaction being started, the control unit instructs the transaction processing device to resume the predetermined process that was stopped, A reception device having the following features.

13. A transaction processing device that processes financial transactions desired by the user, If, while the device is executing a predetermined process, it receives the aforementioned financial transaction to be processed by the device based on an operation of the receiving unit of the receiving device, the control unit stops the predetermined process that the device is currently executing, and, based on an operation on the device, instructs the device to process the aforementioned financial transaction. If a predetermined time has elapsed without the processing of the pending financial transaction being started, the control unit instructs the device to resume the predetermined process that was stopped. A transaction processing device having

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