Product verification device and its program

Abstract

To provide a product collation device to check for missing product registrations without reducing service or increasing employee workload, and a program thereof.SOLUTION: A product collation device includes acquisition means, capture means, collation means, and notification means. The acquisition means acquires a list of products for which a customer completed self-checkout. The capture means captures identification codes of products selected from groups of products taken away by the customer who completed self-checkout. The collation means determines whether the goods identified by the identification codes captured by the capture means are included in the acquired list. The notification means notifies the result of collation by the collation means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a product verification device and a program therefor.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, in mass retailers such as supermarkets, self-checkout systems in which customers perform accounting operations related to the registration of purchased products to settlement by themselves have been widely spread. By introducing a self-checkout system, it is possible to reduce employees in charge of accounting, so there are merits such as reducing labor costs.

[0003] However, on the other hand, since customers perform the product registration operation by themselves, there is a possibility of registration omission, and the check system on the store side has become an issue. For example, an employee can eliminate registration omission by verifying one by one the products registered by self-operation and the products taken away by a customer who has completed accounting. However, in the case of a customer who has purchased a large number of products at one time, it takes time to verify the products one by one, and there is a concern that the customer service will deteriorate and the service will decline. In addition, the burden on the employees in charge of verification is also large, and it is inappropriate as a countermeasure against registration omission.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a product verification device that can check for product registration omissions without causing a decline in serviceability and an increase in the burden on employees.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In one embodiment, the product matching device comprises an acquisition means, an intake means, a matching means, and a notification means. The acquisition means acquires a list of products that have been paid for by the customer through self-service. The intake means acquires the identification codes of products selected from the group of products taken away by the customer after they have paid for them through self-service. The matching means checks whether the product identified by the identification code acquired by the intake means is included in the list acquired by the acquisition means. The notification means notifies the result of the matching by the matching means. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of a self-checkout system according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of a self-checkout machine. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of product data stored in a product file. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of receipt data stored in a receipt file. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of a receipt issued by a self-checkout machine. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the verification terminal. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a sequence diagram used to explain the operation of the self-checkout system. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating the main information processing steps performed by the matching terminal's processor. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating the main information processing steps performed by the matching terminal's processor. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an example of the initial image displayed on the touch panel of the verification terminal. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows an example of a display of the inquiry waiting image shown on the touch panel of a matching terminal. [Figure 12]Figure 12 shows an example of the display of the first notification image on the touch panel of the verification terminal. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows an example of the display of the second notification image on the touch panel of the verification terminal. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. This embodiment illustrates a mass retailer such as a supermarket that has introduced a self-checkout machine, which allows customers to perform accounting operations from registering purchased items to making a payment themselves. In this embodiment, if there are items among the items purchased by a customer that are not registered by the self-checkout machine 10, this is considered a product registration omission. Registration omissions may occur intentionally by the customer, or they may occur due to customer misunderstandings, operational errors, etc. This embodiment provides a product verification device that can easily check for such registration omissions without reducing service quality or increasing the burden on employees.

[0009] [Explanation of the self-checkout system] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of the self-checkout system 100 according to this embodiment. The self-checkout system 100 includes a plurality of (eight in Figure 1) self-checkout machines 10, an attendant terminal 20, and a store server 30. The self-checkout system 100 connects the plurality of self-checkout machines 10, the attendant terminal 20, and the store server 30 via a communication network 40. The communication network 40 is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network). A communication server may be connected to the communication network 40, and the communication server and the store server 30 may be connected via a wide-area network such as the Internet, so that the store server 30 is a cloud server utilizing cloud computing technology.

[0010] The communication network 40 includes an access point 41. The access point 41 communicates wirelessly with the matching terminal 50. In other words, the access point 41 functions as a relay for data communication between the matching terminal 50 and the store server 30.

[0011] The verification terminal 50 is an electronic device that has the function of verifying a list of items that have been paid for by the customer through self-service operation against items selected from the group of items that the customer is taking, and notifying the customer of the verification result. The verification terminal 50 is operated by an employee waiting at the exit (OUT) of the checkout area R. The verification terminal 50 may be a portable terminal carried by the employee or a stationary terminal. The verification terminal 50 is an example of a product verification device.

[0012] Multiple self-checkout machines 10 are installed in separate checkout areas R, which are distinct from the sales floor where the store's merchandise is displayed. Customers who have finished shopping in the sales floor operate the self-checkout machines 10. After placing the items they wish to purchase in a shopping basket or similar container, customers enter the checkout area R from the sales floor through the entrance (IN) and perform the checkout operations themselves at the self-checkout machine 10, from registering the items to making the payment. After completing the operation, customers exit the checkout area R through the exit (OUT). At this point, an employee checks for any missing items using a verification terminal 50.

[0013] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of the self-checkout machine 10. The self-checkout machine 10 comprises a main unit 101 and a first product display stand 102 and a second product display stand 103 located to the left and right of the main unit 101. The first product display stand 102, located to the right of the main unit 101, is a place for customers to place items before registration. Items before registration are usually placed in a shopping basket and then placed on the first product display stand 102. Items before registration may also be placed in a shopping cart and positioned above the first product display stand 102.

[0014] The second product placement table 103 arranged on the left side toward the main body 101 is a place for customers to place the products after registration. The products after registration are, for example, placed in a container placed on the second product placement table 103, such as a shopping basket, a shopping bag, or a my bag. The products after registration may be placed directly on the second product placement table 103. In FIG. 2, the second product placement table 103 is provided with a temporary placement table 104 via a support column at its upper part. The temporary placement table 104 is, for example, a table for temporarily placing products before putting them into a shopping bag or the like. Two holding arms 105 are provided on the temporary placement table 104 at intervals left and right. Customers can use these holding arms 105 to place a shopping bag, a my bag, etc. in an open state on the second product placement table 103.

[0015] The main body 101 includes a touch panel 11, a card reader 12, a printer 13, a scanner 14, a hand scanner 15, a cash processor 16, a speaker 17, a pat lamp 18, etc. as input / output devices.

[0016] The touch panel 11 includes a display as a display device and a touch sensor as an input device. The display displays various screen information such as a settlement start screen, a product registration screen, a payment method selection screen, an accounting screen, etc. The settlement start screen is a screen for accepting the start of a transaction settlement. A start key for instructing the start of a transaction settlement is arranged on the settlement start screen. A customer who starts registering a product touches the start key. When the touch sensor detects that the start key has been touched, the controller of the self-checkout machine 10 switches the screen of the display from the settlement start screen to the product registration screen.

[0017] The product registration screen is a screen for displaying detailed information such as the product name, price, total amount, etc. of the registered products. An accounting key for instructing the transition to the payment of the price of the registered product is arranged on the product registration screen. A customer who has finished registering a product touches the accounting key. When the touch sensor detects that the accounting key has been touched, the controller of the self-checkout machine 10 switches the screen of the display from the product registration screen to the payment method selection screen.

[0018] The payment method selection screen is a screen that accepts input for selecting a payment method, such as cash payment, credit card payment, or electronic money payment. The payment method selection screen is equipped with a cash key for instructing cash payment, a credit key for instructing credit card payment, and an electronic money key for instructing electronic money payment. For example, a customer who wishes to pay with cash touches the cash key. When the touch sensor detects that the cash key has been touched, the controller of the self-checkout machine 10 switches the display screen from the payment method selection screen to the checkout screen. The checkout screen displays the total transaction amount, the amount of cash received, and the amount of change given.

[0019] The card reader 12 is a device that reads data recorded on card media such as credit cards, electronic money cards, and point cards. If the card media is a magnetic card, the card reader 12 is a magnetic card reader. If the card media is an IC card, the card reader 12 is an IC card reader. The self-checkout machine 10 may be equipped with either a magnetic card reader or an IC card reader as the card reader 12, or it may be equipped with both. The card reader 12 may also be a card reader / writer that has a function to write data to cards. In the example in Figure 2, the card reader is shown to be built into the main body of the self-checkout machine 10, but it may also be configured to be connected to an external payment terminal.

[0020] Printer 13 is a 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 printer 13 is cut by a cutter and issued from the receipt issuing slot. Printer 13 can be implemented as, for example, a thermal printer or a dot matrix printer.

[0021] Scanner 14 and hand scanner 15 read barcodes attached to products or code payment codes displayed on smartphones held by consumers as information to identify the products. Scanner 14 optically reads the barcode of a product when it is held up to a reading window (glass window) so that the barcode attached to the product is facing it. Hand scanner 15 is operated by the customer and optically reads the barcode attached to the product when it is brought close to it. Note that scanner 14 and hand scanner 15 only need to read information to identify the product, and may also read information other than barcodes, such as two-dimensional codes.

[0022] The cash processing machine 16 is for processing cash. The cash processing machine 16 has a banknote input slot 161, a banknote output slot 162, a coin input slot 163, and a coin output slot 164. The cash processing machine 16 processes banknotes inserted into the banknote input slot 161. The cash processing machine 16 discharges banknotes as change from the banknote output slot 162. The cash processing machine 16 accepts and processes coins inserted into the coin input slot 163. The cash processing machine 16 discharges coins as change from the coin output slot 164.

[0023] Speaker 17 outputs sounds such as warning sounds as alerts or voice messages.

[0024] The warning light 18 is used to indicate the status of the self-checkout machine 10 and is mounted on the top of a vertically extending pole. The warning light 18 includes a light-emitting element and a cylinder. The light-emitting element is mounted inside the cylinder so as to be rotatable coaxially with the cylinder. When the warning light 18 is in operation, it can rotate while emitting light from the light-emitting element. For example, the warning light 18 emits blue light from the light-emitting element when an item is registered, and emits red light from the light-emitting element when an error occurs, informing employees in the checkout area R, called attendants, of the status of the self-checkout machine 10.

[0025] The attendant terminal 20 is installed at the attendant counter where an employee referred to as an attendant is stationed within the accounting area R. The attendant terminal 20 is equipped with a display device and is used by the attendant to monitor the input content of each self-checkout machine 10. Specifically, the attendant terminal 20 displays information being processed by each self-checkout machine 10 in real time on its display device. The information displayed on the display device includes product sales data for transactions settled at the self-checkout machine 10, such as product name, price, and quantity. The total transaction amount (settlement amount) and payment amounts by payment method are also displayed on the display device. Although only one attendant terminal 20 is shown in Figure 1, two or more attendant terminals 20 may be connected to the communication network 40 to allow for the shared monitoring of the status of multiple self-checkout machines 10.

[0026] The store server 30 is a computer that manages information such as store sales and inventory at the point of sale by collecting and aggregating transaction data settled at each self-checkout machine 10 via a communication network 40. A self-checkout system 100 equipped with such a store server 30 and multiple self-checkout machines 10 can be referred to as a self-POS (Point of Sales) system, etc.

[0027] The store server 30 includes a product file 31 and a receipt file 32. The store server 30 may use its internal storage device as the storage area for the product file 31 and the receipt file 32, or it may use an external storage device as the storage area for the product file 31 and the receipt file 32. Alternatively, it may use its internal storage device as the storage area for one of the files (product file 31 or receipt file 32) and an external storage device as the storage area for the other file (receipt file 32 or product file 31).

[0028] Product file 31 is a collection of product data 311 (see Figure 3) created for each product. Figure 3 shows an example of the main data items that make up product data 311. As shown in the figure, product data includes data items such as product code, product name, price, tax status, and registration failure counter N.

[0029] A product code is a unique code assigned to each product to identify it individually. Generally, each product has a barcode that shows the product code assigned to that product. The barcode is a machine-readable code that can be read by a scanner 14 or a hand scanner 15, etc. It is also possible to use a two-dimensional code instead of a barcode.

[0030] The product name is the item name of the product identified by the product code, the price is the price per unit of the product, i.e., the unit price, and the tax status is the type of consumption tax levied on the consumption (purchase) of the product. There are three types of tax: inclusive tax (where the consumption tax is included in the price), exclusive tax (where the consumption tax is not included in the price), and non-taxable (where no consumption tax is levied). For products subject to inclusive tax, the product data 311 will have a tax status indicating inclusive tax. For products subject to exclusive tax, the product data 311 will have a tax status indicating exclusive tax. For non-taxable products, the product data 311 will have a tax status indicating non-taxable.

[0031] The registration omission counter N counts the number of times a registration omission is detected through a check using the verification terminal 50. In other words, the registration omission counter N increments by "1" each time a registration omission is detected for a product identified by the product code in product data 311.

[0032] The receipt file 32 is a collection of receipt data 321 (see Figure 4) consisting of information from receipts issued by each self-checkout machine 10. An example of the main data items that make up the receipt data 321 is shown in Figure 4. As shown, the receipt data 321 includes data items such as receipt number, transaction date and time, checkout machine number, transaction serial number, data for one or more purchased items, total quantity, total amount, payment type, payment data, and registration omission flag F.

[0033] The receipt number is a unique number generated for each receipt issued from each self-checkout machine 10. Specifically, the receipt number is a 16-digit number generated by sequentially combining an 8-digit transaction date, a 4-digit machine number, and a 4-digit transaction sequence number.

[0034] The transaction date and time is the year, month, and time the receipt was issued. Specifically, the transaction date and time consists of a four-digit number YYYY representing the year, a two-digit number MM representing the month, a two-digit number DD representing the day, and a four-digit number hhmm representing the time (hours and minutes). In other words, the transaction date and time is a 12-digit number in the format YYYYMMDDhhmm.

[0035] The payment machine number is a four-digit number, KKKK, that identifies the self-checkout machine 10 that issued the receipt. Each self-checkout machine 10 located in payment area R is assigned a unique four-digit payment machine number, KKKK, that does not overlap.

[0036] The transaction serial number is a four-digit sequential number (NNNN) that is incremented by 1 each time a receipt is issued on the same day from a single self-checkout machine 10, which is identified by its machine number. Therefore, the transaction serial number NNNN for receipts issued from the same self-checkout machine 10 on the same day will always be a new number. However, it will largely overlap with the transaction serial numbers NNNN of receipts issued from different self-checkout machines 10 on the same day. However, the machine number KKKK for each self-checkout machine 10 is different for each machine. As a result, the 16-digit receipt number generated from the transaction date YYYYMMDD, the machine number KKKK, and the transaction serial number NNNN will be a unique number that does not overlap with other receipt numbers.

[0037] The purchased product data is the data for products registered at self-checkout machine 10. The purchased product data includes product code, product name, price, tax status, tax amount, sales quantity, and sales amount. The tax amount is the amount of consumption tax included in the price if the tax type specified by the tax status is inclusive of tax, and the amount of consumption tax calculated from the price and the consumption tax rate if the tax type is exclusive of tax. If the tax type specified by the tax status is non-taxable, the tax amount is 0 yen. The sales quantity is the quantity of the same product registered as one transaction. The sales amount is the amount calculated by multiplying the price by the sales quantity.

[0038] The total quantity is the sum of the sales quantities for each purchased item. The total amount is the sum of the sales price and the amount of tax for each purchased item. The payment type is information that identifies the payment method for the total amount. Payment methods include cash payment, credit card payment, and electronic money payment. The payment type is pre-set information to identify these payment methods. The payment data is the payment data for the payment method identified by the payment type. For example, if the payment type indicates cash payment, the payment data consists of the amount received in cash and the amount of change. If the payment type indicates credit card payment, the payment data consists of the credit card payment amount and the payment method (lump sum, installments, bonus payment, etc.). If the payment type indicates electronic money payment, the payment data consists of the electronic money payment amount.

[0039] The registration omission flag F is a 1-bit data used to identify whether or not a product was not registered in a transaction settled at the self-checkout machine 10 that issued the receipt data 321. In this embodiment, the registration omission flag F is set to "0" to indicate that no registration omission occurred, and the registration omission flag F is set to "1" to indicate that a registration omission occurred.

[0040] Figure 5 shows an example of a receipt 60 issued by a self-checkout machine 10. As shown in the figure, the receipt 60 has transaction details data 61 printed on it, which includes the product name, quantity sold, and sales amount of purchased items, as well as the total number of items and total amount, payment type, and payment data (payment amount). The receipt 60 also has the transaction date and time 62, the checkout machine number (register number) 63, the transaction serial number 64, and the receipt number 65 printed on it. Furthermore, the receipt 60 has a barcode 66 printed on it as a machine-readable code indicating the receipt number. The machine-readable code indicating the receipt number may also be a two-dimensional code.

[0041] [Configuration description of the matching terminal] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the matching terminal 50. The matching terminal 50 includes a processor 51, main memory 52, auxiliary storage device 53, clock 54, wireless unit 55, touch panel 56, scanner 57, speaker 58, and system transmission line 59, etc. The system transmission line 59 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission line 59 connects the processor 51 to the other parts and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0042] The verification terminal 50 is configured as a computer by connecting a processor 51, main memory 52, auxiliary storage device 53, clock 54, and wireless unit 55 via a system transmission path 59. Input / output devices such as a touch panel 56, scanner 57, and speaker 58 are connected to the system transmission path 59 and controlled by the computer, thereby realizing the functionality of the verification terminal 50. Note that the input / output devices connected to the system transmission path 59 are not limited to those described above. For example, other input / output devices such as a keyboard or camera may be connected.

[0043] The processor 51 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 51 controls each part to realize various functions as a matching terminal 50 according to the operating system or application program. The processor 51 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Preferably, the processor 51 is a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0044] Main memory 52 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 52 includes non-volatile memory areas and volatile memory areas. In the non-volatile memory area, main memory 52 stores the operating system or application programs. Main memory 52 may also store data necessary for the processor 51 to perform processing to control each part in non-volatile or volatile memory areas. Main memory 52 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as needed by the processor 51. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0045] The auxiliary storage device 53 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. For example, EEPROM (Electronic Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or SSD (Solid State Drive) can be the auxiliary storage device 53. The auxiliary storage device 53 stores data used by the processor 51 in performing various processes, data created by the processing performed by the processor 51, etc. The auxiliary storage device 53 may also store the application program described above.

[0046] Clock 54 measures the date and time. Processor 51 processes the date and time measured by clock 54 as the current date and time.

[0047] The wireless unit 55 is an interface that performs wireless communication with the access point 41 using a predetermined wireless communication method. The matching terminal 50 can transmit data to the store server 30 and receive data from the store server 30 via the wireless unit 55.

[0048] The touch panel 56 includes a display that functions as a display device for the matching terminal 50 and a touch sensor that functions as an input device. The touch panel 56 displays various information on the display for the operator of the matching terminal 50. The touch panel 56 detects touch operations on the display screen with the touch sensor and accepts input according to the touch position.

[0049] Scanner 57 is an input device for optically reading machine-readable codes such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes. Scanner 57 is used to read the barcode 66 of the receipt number printed on the receipt 60, or the barcode of the product code attached to the product.

[0050] Speaker 58 outputs sounds such as warning tones as alerts or voice messages.

[0051] In the matching terminal 50 with this configuration, the processor 51 has the functions of an input means 511, an acquisition means 512, a display means 513, an acquisition means 514, a matching means 515, and a notification means 516.

[0052] The input means 511 is a function for inputting receipt-specific information displayed on the receipt 60 issued by the customer's self-operation of the self-checkout machine 10. The receipt-specific information is the receipt number 65. The input means 511 inputs the receipt number 65 as receipt-specific information by analyzing the barcode 66 displayed on the receipt 60, which is scanned by the scanner 57. Alternatively, the input means 511 inputs the receipt number 65 as receipt-specific information when the receipt number 65 is entered by operating the numeric keypad of the software keys displayed on the touch panel 56.

[0053] The acquisition means 512 is a function that acquires a list of items that have been paid for by the customer through self-service. The list of paid-for items is created from the receipt data 321 stored in the receipt file 32. Specifically, the list of paid-for items is created by extracting and listing the product codes, product names, etc., of all purchased product data contained in the receipt data 321. The acquisition means 512 receives the receipt data 321, which is identified by the receipt identification information, i.e., the receipt number 65, entered via the input means 511, from the store server 30. The acquisition means 512 then acquires the list of paid-for items from the receipt data 321. Alternatively, the store server 30 may be configured to create a list of paid-for items based on the receipt data 321 and send it to the verification terminal 50, in which case the acquisition means 512 may acquire the list from the store server 30.

[0054] The display means 513 has the function of displaying a list of products acquired by the acquisition means 512. The display means 513 displays the names of the acquired products in list format on the touch panel 56. The display means 513 may also display the names of the acquired products on the touch panel 56 along with the sales quantity or sales amount, etc.

[0055] The acquisition means 514 has the function of acquiring the identification code of an item selected from the group of items taken away by a customer who has completed payment by self-service. The item identification code is the product code. The product code is attached to the product in the form of a barcode. An employee selects the item. The employee selects an item from the group of items taken away by a customer who has completed payment and scans the barcode of that item with the scanner 57 of the verification terminal 50. The acquisition means 514 analyzes the barcode scanned by the scanner 57 and acquires the product code represented by that barcode as the identification code of the selected item.

[0056] The matching means 515 is a function that checks whether the product identified by the identification code imported by the import means 514 is included in the list acquired by the acquisition means 512. The list acquired by the acquisition means 512 is a list of products based on the purchased product data in the receipt data 321. The matching means 515 searches the receipt data 321 for purchased product data that includes the identification code imported by the import means 514, i.e., the product code. If the corresponding purchased product data exists in the receipt data 321, the matching means 515 determines that the selected product is included in the list. If the corresponding purchased product data does not exist in the receipt data 321, the matching means 515 determines that the selected product is not included in the list.

[0057] The notification means 516 is a function that notifies the verification result of the verification means 515. For example, the notification means 516 notifies by displaying information indicating the verification result of the verification means 515 on the touch panel 56. Specifically, if the product identified by the product code acquired by the acquisition means 514 is included in the list, the notification means 516 notifies the verification result by displaying the product identified by that product code in the list displayed on the touch panel 56 in a way that allows it to be distinguished from other products. If the product identified by the product code acquired by the acquisition means 514 is not included in the list, the notification means 516 notifies the verification result by adding that product code to the list displayed on the touch panel 56.

[0058] The functions of the input means 511, acquisition means 512, display means 513, capture means 514, verification means 515, and notification means 516 described above are realized by information processing executed by the processor 51 according to a predetermined program. Hereinafter, this program will be referred to as the verification program. The verification program is a type of application program stored in the main memory 52 or auxiliary storage device 53. The method of installing the verification program in the main memory 52 or auxiliary storage device 53 is not particularly limited. The verification program can be recorded on a removable recording medium, or distributed via network communication and installed in the main memory 52 or auxiliary storage device 53. The recording medium can be of any form as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device, such as a CD-ROM or memory card.

[0059] [Explanation of the operation of the self-checkout system and verification terminal] Next, the operation of the self-checkout system 100 and verification terminal 50 configured as described above will be explained. First, the operation of the self-checkout system 100 will be explained using the sequence diagram in Figure 7.

[0060] After finishing their shopping in the sales area, customers place the items they wish to purchase in a shopping basket or similar container and enter the checkout area R from the entrance (IN). The customer then begins operating an available self-checkout machine 10. First, the customer touches the start key on the touch panel 11 of the self-checkout machine 10, which displays the payment start screen. Once the start key is touched, the screen on the touch panel 11 transitions from the payment start screen to the product registration screen, and the customer has the barcode of the purchased item scanned by the scanner 14.

[0061] As shown in ACT11 in Figure 7, when a product's barcode is scanned by the scanner 14, the self-checkout machine 10 sends a product inquiry command COa containing the product code obtained by analyzing the barcode to the store server 30. As shown in ACT21, the store server 30 searches the product file 31, obtains product data 311 containing the product code from the product inquiry command COa, and sends it to the self-checkout machine 10. As shown in ACT12, the self-checkout machine 10 registers the product based on the product data 311 and generates purchased product data.

[0062] Each time a customer scans the barcode of an item with the scanner 14, the self-checkout machine 10 repeats the actions of ACT 11 and ACT 12, and the store server 30 repeats the action of ACT 21. Some items, such as loose fresh produce, do not have barcodes. For items without barcodes, the customer selects the item to purchase from the list of items without barcodes displayed on the touch panel 11. As a result, the product code of the purchased item is entered into the self-checkout machine 10, so the self-checkout machine 10 executes the actions of ACT 11 and ACT 12, and the store server 30 executes the action of ACT 21. Thus, the items purchased by the customer are registered in the self-checkout machine 10, and purchase data related to those items is generated.

[0063] After registering their items, the customer touches the payment key. When the payment key is touched, the screen on the touch panel 11 transitions from the item registration screen to the payment method selection screen, and the customer selects their desired payment method. The customer then makes the payment to the self-checkout machine 10 according to the selected payment method.

[0064] Once a payment method is selected, the self-checkout machine 10 settles the transaction with the customer as shown in ACT 13. For example, if cash payment is selected, the self-checkout machine 10 settles the transaction with the cash inserted into the cash handling machine 16. If credit card payment is selected, the self-checkout machine 10 settles the transaction with the credit card data read by the card reader 12. If electronic money payment is selected, the self-checkout machine 10 settles the transaction with the electronic money data read by the scanner 14 or the card reader 12. Since all of these settlement processes are well known, detailed explanations are omitted.

[0065] When the self-checkout machine 10 completes the payment process, it generates receipt data 321 as shown in ACT 14 and prints a receipt 60 based on the receipt data 321 from the printer 13. The receipt data 321 includes the transaction date and time, the machine number, and a receipt number created from the transaction serial number. The receipt 60 has a barcode 66 of the receipt number printed on it. The self-checkout machine 10 sends the receipt data 321 to the store server 30. The store server 30 saves the receipt data 321 to the receipt file 32 as shown in ACT 22.

[0066] Thus, in the self-checkout system 100, when a customer performs the accounting operations from registering the purchased items to payment at each self-checkout machine 10, the receipt data 321 of the receipt 60 issued to that customer is stored in the receipt file 32.

[0067] Now, the customer who has finished paying heads to the exit (OUT). An employee is waiting at the exit (OUT) to perform verification using a verification terminal 50, and the employee asks the customer to show their receipt 60. The employee then has the barcode 66 printed on the receipt 60 that the customer has shown read by the scanner 57 of the verification terminal 50.

[0068] Here, the detailed operation of the matching terminal 50 will be explained using the flowcharts in Figures 8 and 9, and the screen examples in Figures 10 to 13. Figures 8 and 9 are flowcharts showing the main information processing steps performed by the processor 51 of the matching terminal 50 according to the matching program. Figures 10 to 13 are examples of the main images displayed on the touch panel 56 of the matching terminal 50. Note that the information processing steps shown in Figures 8 and 9 are examples only. The steps can be modified as appropriate if similar effects can be obtained. Similarly, the images shown in Figures 10 to 13 are examples only. The displayed content or layout can be modified as appropriate if similar effects can be obtained.

[0069] When the matching program is started, the processor 51 of the matching terminal 50 begins processing information according to the procedure shown in the flowcharts of Figures 8 and 9. First, the processor 51 sets the screen of the touch panel 56 as the initial image SCa (see Figure 10) as ACT31.

[0070] Figure 10 shows an example of the initial image SCa display. As shown, the initial image SCa has the title "Random Check" and the date "2024 / 01 / 16" on the clock 54 at the top of the screen, and the exit button BTa and scan button BTb at the bottom of the screen. The exit button BTa and scan button BTb are software keys. The exit button BTa is an operator that accepts the instruction to end the matching process. The scan button BTb is an operator that accepts the instruction to scan a barcode. The employee touches the scan button BTb on the initial image SCa and then has the scanner 57 read the barcode 66 on the receipt 60 presented by the customer.

[0071] The initial image SCa places a receipt number display field ARa and a query result display field ARb in the center of the screen. The initial image SCa also places a display area for the accounting machine number near display field ARa, and displays for the query date and time, total quantity, and number of confirmed receipts near display field ARb. In the initial image SCa, display fields ARa and ARb are blank. The accounting machine number and query date and time are not displayed, and the total quantity is "0". The number of confirmed receipts starts at "0" and increases by "1" thereafter.

[0072] The processor 51 of the matching terminal 50, which displays the initial image SCa, proceeds to ACT32. The processor 51 waits for the scan button BTb to be input as ACT32. When the scan button BTb is input by the employee's touch operation, the processor 51 proceeds to ACT33. The processor 51 reads the barcode with the scanner 57 as ACT33. The processor 51 checks as ACT34 whether the barcode read by the scanner 57 is the barcode 66 of the receipt number printed on the receipt 60. For example, if the type data of the read barcode does not indicate the barcode 66 of the receipt number, the processor 51 returns to ACT32. The processor 51 waits for the next barcode to be read.

[0073] If the type data of the scanned barcode indicates barcode 66 of the receipt number, the processor 51 proceeds to ACT 35. The processor 51 controls the wireless unit 55 to send a receipt inquiry command COb to the store server 30 as ACT 35. This control causes the receipt inquiry command COb to be transmitted wirelessly from the wireless unit 55. As shown in Figure 7, the receipt inquiry command COb is received by the access point 41 and transmitted to the store server 30 via the communication network 40. The receipt inquiry command COb contains the receipt number obtained by analyzing the barcode 66 read by the scanner 57.

[0074] Upon receiving the receipt inquiry command COb, the store server 30 searches the receipt file 32, as shown in ACT23 in Figure 7, and obtains receipt data 321 containing the receipt number of the receipt inquiry command COb. The store server 30 then transmits the receipt data 321 to the verification terminal 50. The receipt data 321 transmitted from the store server 30 is wirelessly transmitted from the access point 41 and received by the wireless unit 55 of the verification terminal 50, as shown in Figure 7.

[0075] The processor 51 of the matching terminal 50 that sent the receipt inquiry command COb proceeds to ACT36. The processor 51 waits for receipt data 321 to be received as ACT36. If receipt data 321 is not received within a predetermined time in this waiting state, the processor 51 generates an error. The processor 51 displays guidance on the touch panel 56 to notify the operator that receipt data could not be obtained. For example, an error may occur if there is a problem with the wireless communication with the access point 41.

[0076] If receipt data 321 is received within a predetermined time after sending the receipt inquiry command COb, the processor 51 proceeds to ACT 37. The processor 51 stores the receipt data 321 as ACT 37. The receipt data 321 is stored in the volatile memory area of ​​the main memory 52. ​​The receipt data 321 may also be stored in the auxiliary storage device 53.

[0077] The processor 51, having stored the receipt data 321, proceeds to ACT 38. As ACT 38, the processor 51 increments the receipt verification counter by "1". The counter is reset to "0" when the verification program is started. Subsequently, the counter is incremented by "1" each time the barcode 66 of receipt 60 is scanned, a receipt inquiry command COb is sent to the store server 330, and receipt data 321 is received from the store server 30 in response.

[0078] After adding "1" to the receipt verification counter, processor 51 proceeds to ACT39. Processor 51 switches the screen of touch panel 56 from the initial image SCa to the inquiry waiting image SCb (see Figure 11).

[0079] Figure 11 shows an example of the display of the inquiry waiting image SCb. The inquiry waiting image SCb shares the same layout of display items as the initial image SCa. The inquiry waiting image SCb displays the receipt number of the receipt data 321 received from the store server 30 in the display field ARa. The inquiry waiting image SCb also displays the product list ARc, created from the purchased product data of the receipt data 321, below the display field ARb. The product list ARc lists the product names, sales quantities, and sales amounts of all purchased product data. Due to screen size limitations, this embodiment illustrates a case where the product list ARc displays a maximum of four product names, sales quantities, and sales amounts. The sales amount may display either the tax-inclusive amount or the unit price of the product excluding tax, and which information is displayed in the product list ARc can be changed as appropriate by the settings. The remaining items are displayed by scrolling the list up and down. In addition, the inquiry waiting image SCb displays the accounting machine number and total quantity of the receipt data 321. The inquiry waiting image SCb also displays the date and time (inquiry date and time) of the clock 54 at the time the barcode 66 was scanned by the scanner 57, as well as the number of receipts that have been counted by the counter.

[0080] Here, the processor 51 functions as an input means 511 by performing the processing of ACT32 to ACT34 in cooperation with the scanner 57, functions as an acquisition means 512 by performing the processing of ACT35 to ACT37, and functions as a display means 513 by performing the processing of ACT39 in cooperation with the touch panel 56.

[0081] After the employee checks the inquiry waiting image SCb, they select a suitable item from the items the customer is taking. Then, the employee touches the scan button BTb on the inquiry waiting image SCb and has the barcode of the selected item scanned by scanner 57.

[0082] Here, it is up to the employee to decide which products to select and how many to select. Preferably, employees should select products that are prone to being missed during registration. For example, if statistics show that heavy products, such as a case of six 2-liter bottles of water, are prone to being missed because they are placed on the bottom shelf of the shopping cart, then employees should actively select heavy products. For example, if statistics show that high-priced products are prone to being missed during registration due to customer fraud, then employees should actively select high-priced products.

[0083] On the other hand, regarding the number of items to select, it is preferable to keep the number small from the perspective of not making customers wait while the registration check is being performed. However, if the total quantity is large, the possibility of registration errors increases. Therefore, as an example, if the total quantity is 10 items or less, one item is selected; if it is between 11 and 20 items, two items are selected; and if it is 21 items or more, three items are selected. In this way, it is desirable to determine the number of items to select in proportion to the total quantity. The total quantity is displayed in the inquiry waiting image SCb.

[0084] The processor 51 of the matching terminal 50, which displays the inquiry waiting image SCb, proceeds to ACT40. The processor 51 sets the registration omission flag F to "0" as ACT40. Then the processor 51 proceeds to ACT41 in Figure 9. The processor 51 checks whether the exit button BTa has been pressed as ACT41. If the exit button BTa has not been pressed, the processor 51 proceeds to ACT42. The processor 51 checks whether the scan button BTb has been pressed as ACT42. If the scan button BTb has not been pressed, the processor 51 returns to ACT41. In this way, the processor 51 waits for either the exit button BTa or the scan button BTb to be pressed in ACT41 and ACT42.

[0085] When the scan button BTb is pressed while the system is in the waiting state for ACT41 and ACT42, the processor 51 proceeds to ACT43. The processor 51 reads the barcode with the scanner 57 as ACT43. The processor 51 then checks whether the barcode read by the scanner 57 is the product code barcode attached to the product as ACT44. For example, if the type data of the read barcode does not indicate a product code barcode, the processor 51 returns to ACT41. Alternatively, before returning to the processing of ACT41, the processor 51 may display a notification image on the inquiry waiting image SCb indicating that the type data of the read barcode does not indicate a product code barcode, and return to ACT41 after receiving input from the employee indicating that they have seen the notification image. The processor 51 waits for the exit button BTa or the scan button BTb to be pressed.

[0086] In ACT44, if the type data of the barcode read by scanner 57 indicates a product code barcode, processor 51 proceeds to ACT45. Processor 51 performs a matching process as ACT45. That is, processor 51 compares the product code indicated by the barcode read in ACT43 with the product code included in the purchased product data of receipt data 321 stored in ACT37. Processor 51 then determines whether or not there is purchased product data in receipt data 321 that contains a product code that matches the product code of the barcode read in ACT46.

[0087] If it is determined that the item exists in ACT46, the processor 51 proceeds to ACT47. In ACT47, the processor 51 switches the screen of the touch panel 56 from the inquiry waiting image SCb to the first notification image SCc (see Figure 12). At this time, the speaker 58 may emit an alert sound or voice to inform the employee that there is no registration omission.

[0088] Figure 12 shows an example of the display of the first notification image SCc. The first notification image SCc is an image used to inform employees that the purchase data for the selected product exists in the receipt data 321 and that there is no registration error. The first notification image SCc shares the same layout of display items as the inquiry waiting image SCb. Also, the information such as the accounting machine number, receipt number, inquiry date and time, total quantity, and number of receipts confirmed does not change from the inquiry waiting image SCb. However, the exit button BTa has been changed to a back button BDd.

[0089] The first notification image SCc displays the product name of the product identified by the barcode read by scanner 57, i.e., the product selected by the employee, in the display field ARb of the inquiry results. The data in product list ARc is sorted so that the product name, sales quantity, and sales amount of the product selected by the employee are displayed on one row of product list ARc. The background color of that row is made different from the background colors of the other rows to make it possible to distinguish the product selected by the employee from the other products. Alternatively, instead of using a different background color, the product name or other elements could be made to flash to make it distinguishable. Incidentally, in Figure 12, since product EEE, which was registered after product DDD, was selected, the product data in product list ARc is scrolled upward by one item from the state in Figure 11, and the information for product EEE is displayed on the 4th row.

[0090] On the other hand, in ACT46, if it is determined that there is no purchased product data in the receipt data 321 that contains a product code matching the product code of the scanned barcode, the processor 51 proceeds to ACT48. In ACT48, the processor 51 sets the registration omission flag F to "1". Also, in ACT49, the processor 51 stores the product code obtained by analyzing the barcode read by the scanner 57. The product code is stored in the volatile memory area of ​​the main memory 52. ​​The product code may also be stored in the auxiliary storage device 53. In ACT50, the processor 51 switches the screen of the touch panel 56 from the inquiry waiting image SCb to the second notification image SCd (see Figure 13). At this time, the speaker 58 may emit an alert sound or voice to inform the employee that the registration is missing.

[0091] Figure 13 shows an example of the display of the second notification image SCd. The second notification image SCd is an image used to inform employees that the purchase data for the selected product is not present in the receipt data 321 and that registration has been missed. The second notification image SCd shares the same layout of display items as the inquiry waiting image SCb. Also, the information such as the accounting machine number, receipt number, inquiry date and time, total quantity, and number of receipts confirmed remains unchanged from the inquiry waiting image SCb. However, the exit button BTa has been changed to a back button BDd.

[0092] The second notification image SCd displays text such as "Not Applicable" in the query result display field ARb, which shows the query result, to notify that the product is not registered. In addition, the product code obtained from the barcode read by scanner 57 is displayed in the product name column of any one row in the product list ARc. Both the sales quantity and sales amount are set to "0". By making the background color of this row different from the background color of the other rows, the information of the unregistered product code can be distinguished from the information of other products. Alternatively, instead of using a different background color, the product code could be made to flash, for example, to make it distinguishable. For example, Figure 13 shows an example in which the product code of the unregistered product is displayed before product AAA, which is registered as one item. In this way, displaying it in the first row of the product list ARc makes it easier for employees to see the unregistered product code.

[0093] Here, the processor 51 functions as an acquisition means 514 by performing the processing of ACT42 to ACT44 in cooperation with the scanner 57, functions as a matching means 515 by performing the processing of ACT45 and ACT46, and functions as a notification means 516 by performing the processing of ACT47 and ACT50 in cooperation with the touch panel 56.

[0094] The processor 51 of the matching terminal 50, which is displaying the first notification image SCc or the second notification image SCd, proceeds to ACT 51. The processor 51 checks whether the scan button BTb has been input as ACT 51. If the scan button BTb has not been input, the processor 51 proceeds to ACT 52. The processor 51 checks whether the back button BTc has been input as ACT 52. If the back button BTc has not been input, the processor 51 returns to ACT 51. In this way, the processor 51 waits for either the scan button BTb or the back button BTc to be input in ACT 51 and ACT 52.

[0095] When the scan button BTb is pressed while in the waiting state of ACT51 and ACT52, the processor 51 returns to ACT43. The processor 51 executes the processing from ACT43 onward in the same manner as described above. That is, as shown in Figure 7, the processor 51 performs a matching process in response to the scanning of the product code (ACT44) (ACT45) and displays a first notification image SCc or a second notification image SCd to notify the matching result (ACT47, 50).

[0096] In the waiting state of ACT51 and ACT52, if the back button BTc is pressed, the processor 51 proceeds to ACT53. As ACT53, the processor 51 returns the screen of the touch panel 56 from the first notification image SCc or the second notification image SCd to the inquiry waiting image SCb. Then the processor 51 returns to ACT41. That is, the processor 51 waits for the exit button BTa or the scan button BTb to be pressed.

[0097] When the exit button BTa is pressed while ACT41 and ACT42 are in standby mode, the processor 51 proceeds to ACT55. The processor 51 controls the wireless unit 55 to send the result notification command COc to the store server 30 as ACT55. This control causes the result notification command COc to be wirelessly transmitted from the wireless unit 55. As shown in Figure 7, the result notification command COc is received by the access point 41 and transmitted to the store server 30 via the communication network 40. The result notification command COc contains data indicating the result of the matching process. Specifically, if the registration omission flag F is "0", meaning that no registration omission has occurred, the receipt number of the receipt data 321 and the registration omission flag F are included in the result notification command COc. If the registration omission flag F is "1", meaning that a registration omission has occurred, the receipt number of the receipt data 321, the product code stored in the processing of ACT49, and the registration omission flag F are included in the result notification command COc.

[0098] The processor 51, which sent the result notification command COc, returns to ACT31 in Figure 8. That is, the processor 51 returns the screen of the touch panel 56 to the initial image SCa. At this time, the number of receipts confirmed in the initial image SCa becomes the value of the counter that was incremented during the processing of ACT38.

[0099] By introducing the verification terminal 50, which operates as described above, to supermarkets and other establishments equipped with self-checkout machines 10, it becomes possible to check for any items that customers have missed registering after completing their purchases. The checking method is simple and does not take much time, as it only requires selecting one or two items from the group of goods the customer is taking and scanning their barcodes. It also does not burden employees. Therefore, it is possible to easily check for missed item registrations without reducing service quality or increasing the burden on employees. As a result, it can also effectively deter fraudulent activities such as customers pretending to register items at the self-checkout machine 10 but actually taking them.

[0100] Upon receiving the result notification command COc, the store server 30 executes the process of updating the receipt file 32, as shown in Figure 7. Specifically, the store server 30 retrieves the receipt data 321 corresponding to the receipt number included in the result notification command COc from the receipt file 32, and updates the registration omission flag F in that receipt file 32 to the value of the registration omission flag F included in the same result notification command COc. Therefore, it is possible to distinguish between receipt data 321 with registration omissions and receipt data with registration omissions that are not stored in the receipt file 32. As a result, it is possible to analyze when registration omissions are most likely to occur and which self-checkout machines 10 are more prone to registration omissions.

[0101] Furthermore, if the result notification command COc contains a product code, the store server 30 retrieves the product data 311 for that product code from the product file 31 and increments the registration omission counter N for that product data 311 by "1". As a result, it is possible to extract products that are prone to registration omissions.

[0102] [Other embodiments] In the above embodiment, the processor 51 of the verification terminal 50 is responsible for implementing the function of the verification means 515. In another embodiment, the store server 30 may implement the function of the verification means 515 by verifying the receipt data 321 in the receipt file 32 with the product code read by the scanner 57 of the verification terminal 50. In this case, the product verification device consists of a system of the verification terminal 50 and the store server 30.

[0103] In the above embodiment, the acquisition means 512 acquired a list of items that had been paid for by self-service based on the receipt data 321. In another embodiment, the list of items may be acquired by applying character recognition technology to an image of the receipt 60 taken by a camera.

[0104] The receipt number 65, which is receipt-specific information, does not have to be a 16-digit number formed by combining an 8-digit transaction date and time, a 4-digit accounting machine number, and a 4-digit transaction serial number. In short, it is sufficient if it is information that can identify each receipt 60 individually. Furthermore, the receipt 60 is not limited to a paper receipt. For example, it may be an electronic receipt displayed on a smartphone held by a customer who has completed payment via self-service. In that case, it goes without saying that the barcode 66 of receipt number 65 will be displayed on part of the electronic receipt. Specifically, for example, the receipt image shown in Figure 5 is displayed on the screen of the customer's smartphone. The store clerk performs product verification processing using the verification terminal 50 in the embodiment described above. The verification terminal 50 can check for missing product registrations by executing the processes shown in Figures 8 and 9.

[0105] The self-checkout machine 10 is not limited to having both registration and payment functions. For example, it may be a self-checkout terminal that only has a payment function and no registration function. In this case, the customer will register the items they purchase by operating their smartphone or a cart terminal installed in a shopping cart themselves. Even when customers register and pay for items themselves using a smartphone, it is possible to check for missed registrations by using electronic receipts and designing the customer's flow so that customers always exit the checkout area R after completing their payment.

[0106] In addition, several embodiments of the present invention have been described, but these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included within the scope of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention and its equivalents as described in the claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0107] 10...Self-checkout machine, 20...Attendant terminal, 30...Store server, 31...Product file, 32...Receipt file, 40...Communication network, 41...Access point, 50...Verification terminal, 60...Receipt, 100...Self-checkout system, 511...Input means, 512...Acquisition means, 513...Display means, 514...Intake means, 515...Verification means, 516...Notification means.

Claims

1. A means of obtaining a list of items that have been paid for by the customer through self-service, An acquisition means for acquiring the identification code of a product selected from the group of products taken by a customer who has completed payment through the self-service operation, A matching means for verifying whether the product identified by the identification code acquired by the acquisition means is included in the list acquired by the acquisition means, A notification means for notifying the verification result obtained by the aforementioned verification means, A product verification device equipped with the following features.

2. An input means for inputting receipt-specific information displayed on the receipt issued by the aforementioned self-operation, Furthermore, The product matching device according to claim 1, wherein the acquisition means acquires a list of products listed on a receipt identified by receipt-specific information input via the input means.

3. A display means for displaying a list of products acquired by the acquisition means, Furthermore, it is equipped with, The product verification device according to claim 1, wherein the notification means notifies by displaying the verification result from the verification means together with the list.

4. The product matching device according to claim 3, wherein the notification means notifies the matching result by displaying the product identified by the identification code in the list displayed by the display means in a way that allows it to be distinguished from other products, if the product identified by the identification code is included in the list.

5. The product matching device according to claim 3, wherein the notification means notifies the matching result by adding the identification code to the list displayed by the display means if the product identified by the identification code is not included in the list.

6. The computer of the product verification device A means of obtaining a list of items that have been paid for by the customer through self-service. An acquisition means for acquiring the identification code of a product selected from the group of products taken by a customer who has completed payment through the aforementioned self-service operation. A matching means for verifying whether the product identified by the identification code acquired by the acquisition means is included in the list acquired by the acquisition means, A notification means for notifying the verification result obtained by the aforementioned verification means, A program designed to function as such.

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