Electronic receipt system, server device and program

Abstract

To make it possible to digitize a receipt later even if an electronic receipt ID cannot be obtained.SOLUTION: An electronic receipt system stores transaction files. A transaction file of a transaction for which receipt data has not been generated is extracted from the stored transaction files. When information that a target person identified by target person identification information described in the extracted transaction file is a user of an electronic receipt service can be acquired, receipt data is generated on the basis of data related to the details of the transaction described in the transaction file and output to a receipt server.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an electronic receipt system, a server device included in the system, and a program for causing a computer to function as the server device.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, so-called electronic receipt services, which enable consumers to receive electronic receipts on information terminals such as smartphones, have become widespread. Consumers can use the electronic receipt service by registering as a member with the operating company of the electronic receipt service. In addition, many stores implement membership services such as point services for the purpose of attracting customers. Consumers can receive the membership services of the store by registering as a member of the store.

[0003] By the way, for consumers who have registered as members with the operating company of the electronic receipt service, identification information for identifying the consumers, so-called electronic receipt IDs, are assigned. Consumers can receive the electronic receipt service by presenting the electronic receipt ID at the time of settlement at stores where the electronic receipt service is available. Similarly, for consumers who have registered as members with stores that implement membership services, identification information for identifying the consumers, so-called store membership IDs, are assigned. Consumers can receive the membership service by presenting the store membership ID at the time of settlement at the store where they have registered as a member.

[0004] However, consumers cannot receive both the electronic receipt service and the membership service unless they present both the electronic receipt ID and the store membership ID when settling transactions at stores. In order to solve such inconveniences, the electronic receipt ID and the store membership ID of the same consumer are linked. And a technology has already been put into practical use that enables consumers to receive both the electronic receipt service and the membership service as long as they present the store membership ID at the time of settlement at the store.

[0005] Generally, consumer information registered with a store is managed on the store's server. Therefore, if the server is offline when a payment is made using the store's payment terminal, it becomes impossible to recognize whether the electronic receipt ID is linked to the consumer's store membership ID. If the electronic receipt ID cannot be recognized, the payment terminal is forced to issue a paper receipt because it cannot digitize the receipt. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-031392 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] The problem that the embodiments of the present invention aim to solve is to provide a technology that allows receipts to be digitized later, even if consumer identification information necessary for receiving an electronic receipt service could not be obtained at that time. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In one embodiment, the electronic receipt system comprises a first generation means, a storage means, an extraction means, a second generation means, and an output means. The first generation means generates receipt data, which is an electronic representation of a receipt detailing a transaction, if it can be determined at the time the transaction is settled that the person subject to a transaction settled by the payment device is a user of an electronic receipt service that receives receipts detailing the transaction as electronic data. The storage means stores a transaction file that describes subject identification information that identifies the person subject to a transaction settled by the payment device and data relating to the details of that transaction. The extraction means extracts transaction files from the transaction files stored by the storage means for transactions for which receipt data has not been generated. The second generation means generates receipt data based on the transaction details described in the transaction file if it can be determined from information held by a second server, which is different from the first server, that the person identified by the subject identification information described in the transaction file extracted by the extraction means is a user of an electronic receipt service. The output means outputs the receipt data generated by the first generation means or the second generation means to the receipt server that manages the receipt data. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of an electronic receipt system according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the receipt server. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of the linkage table. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the member server. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the store server. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the main data items described in a transaction file. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of a POS terminal. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the conversion server. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating the main information processing steps performed by the POS terminal's processor. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating the main information processing steps performed by the POS terminal's processor. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a flowchart illustrating the main information processing steps performed by the store server's processor. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating the main information processing steps performed by the processor of the translation server. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a sequence diagram showing what happens when a POS terminal obtains an electronic receipt ID from the member server. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a sequence diagram showing the case when the conversion server obtains the electronic receipt ID from the receipt server. [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows an example of a receipt image when a POS terminal obtains an electronic receipt ID from the member server. [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows an example of a receipt image when the conversion server obtains an electronic receipt ID from the receipt server. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The following describes, with the help of drawings, an embodiment of an electronic receipt system that allows for the digitization of receipts even if consumer identification information necessary for receiving the electronic receipt service could not be obtained at that time.

[0011] First, this embodiment exemplifies an electronic receipt system that enables a consumer to receive both an electronic receipt service and a membership service by linking the consumer's electronic receipt ID and the store membership ID. When settling accounts at a store, if the consumer presents the store membership ID of that store, they can receive both services. The membership service is, for example, a point service that awards points in proportion to the transaction amount. The membership service is not limited to the point service.

[0012] The electronic receipt ID is identification information assigned by the operator of the electronic receipt service to a consumer when the consumer registers as a member with the operator. A consumer who wishes to receive the electronic receipt service installs dedicated application software corresponding to the electronic receipt service, so-called electronic receipt app, on an information terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet. Then, the consumer uses the electronic receipt app to register as a member with the operator of the electronic receipt service. By registering as a member, unique identification information, so-called electronic receipt ID, is assigned to the consumer by the operator. The electronic receipt ID is displayed in the form of a machine-readable code such as a barcode or a two-dimensional code on the top screen displayed on the display device of the information terminal when the electronic receipt app is launched on the information terminal. Hereinafter, a consumer who has registered as a member with the operator of the electronic receipt service is referred to as an electronic receipt member.

[0013] A store member ID is identification information assigned to a consumer by the store when the consumer registers as a member to receive member services. Consumers who wish to receive member services install dedicated application software compatible with member services, so-called store member apps, on their information terminals such as smartphones and tablets. Consumers then register as members with the store using these store member apps. Upon registration, the store assigns the consumer a unique identification information, a store member ID. The store member ID is displayed, for example, as a machine-readable code such as a barcode or a two-dimensional code on the top screen of the information terminal's display device when the store member app is launched on the information terminal. Alternatively, the store member ID may be recorded on a membership card issued to the consumer by the store upon registration. The membership card may be a magnetic card with the store member ID magnetically recorded on it, or a contact-type or contactless IC card with the store member ID stored in the memory of an IC chip. It may also be a card-shaped medium made of paper or plastic, etc., with the store member ID printed in the form of a machine-readable code. Hereinafter, consumers who have registered as members with a store will be referred to as store members.

[0014] A store may be an independent store or a chain store consisting of multiple franchisees. Furthermore, there are no particular limitations on the type of store. It may be a store that sells goods, such as a supermarket, convenience store, or specialty retail store, or a store that provides services, such as a barber shop, rental shop, or bowling alley. In short, it is a store that settles transactions related to the sale of goods or provision of services with consumers, who are the subjects of the transaction, and issues a receipt that shows the details of that transaction. The receipt records details such as the names and prices of the items traded, the total amount of the transaction, payment information for that total amount, and the date and time the transaction took place.

[0015] In this embodiment, not only the act of purchasing a product at a store that sells the product and paying the price thereof, but also the act of receiving a service at a store that provides the service and paying the price thereof are referred to as transactions. Also, the person who is the subject of such a transaction is referred to as a consumer. A consumer may also be referred to as the subject of a transaction or the transaction subject. And in this embodiment, a chain store is exemplified as a store that implements an electronic receipt service and a membership service.

[0016] [Explanation of Electronic Receipt System] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of an electronic receipt system 100 according to this embodiment. The electronic receipt system 100 includes a receipt management system 10, a head office system 20, a plurality of store systems 30, and a conversion server 40. Then, the receipt management system 10, the head office system 20, and the conversion server 40 are connected by a first communication network NWa, the head office system 20 and each store system 30 are connected by a second communication network NWb, and the head office system 20 and the conversion server 40 are connected by a third communication network NWc, thereby constituting the electronic receipt system 100. The first communication network NMa, the second communication network NWb, and the third communication network NWc are, for example, the Internet, an intranet, a VPN (virtual private network), or the like. In FIG. 1, the first communication network NMa, the second communication network NWb, and the third communication network NWc are shown as independent networks, but it is also possible to integrate two or more communication networks into one.

[0017] The receipt management system is a system managed by an operating company of an electronic receipt service. The receipt management system 10 includes a receipt server 11. The receipt server 11 is a computer device that provides a service that enables an information terminal 200 owned by an electronic receipt member to view an image of a receipt issued to the electronic receipt member. The receipt server 11 may provide services in an on-premises environment or may provide services in a cloud computing environment.

[0018] The information terminal 200 is a portable communication device such as a smartphone or tablet. The information terminal 200 has at least an electronic receipt application installed. In addition to the electronic receipt application, the information terminal 200 may also have a store membership application installed.

[0019] The receipt server 11 stores electronic receipt data of receipts issued to each electronic receipt member from stores that provide electronic receipt services. When an electronic receipt inquiry is received from the information terminal 200 via the fourth communication network NWd, the receipt server 11 extracts the receipt data of that electronic receipt member. The receipt server 11 transmits the receipt image data based on the extracted receipt data to the information terminal 200 via the fourth communication network NWd. Thus, the requested receipt is displayed as an image on the display device of the information terminal 200.

[0020] Thus, the fourth communication network NWd is a wide-area network that enables data transfer between the receipt server 11 and the information terminals 200 owned by each electronic receipt member. The fourth communication network NWd can be, for example, the internet, a mobile communication network, a public communication network, etc., either alone or in appropriate combinations.

[0021] The headquarters system 20 is a system built at the headquarters of a chain of stores. The headquarters system 20 comprises a headquarters server 21, a member server 22, a first communication server 23, a second communication server 24, and a third communication server 25. The headquarters server 21, member server 22, first communication server 23, second communication server 24, and third communication server 25 are each connected to the headquarters network 26. The headquarters network 26 is typically a LAN (Local Area Network). The LAN may be a wired LAN or a wireless LAN. The headquarters server 21, member server 22, first communication server 23, second communication server 24, and third communication server 25 communicate data with each other via the headquarters network 26.

[0022] The headquarters server 21 is a computer device that collects transaction information processed by each franchisee's payment device from each store system 30 and processes that information to generate and output data related to the headquarters' operations as needed. This data related to the headquarters' operations includes, for example, sales data and loss data for each franchisee.

[0023] The member server 22 is a computer device that provides a service for managing information on consumers who have become store members. Consumer information includes, for example, the value of service points that the consumer possesses. Specifically, the member server 22 accumulates points for each store member, based on the amount of the transaction when a store member conducts a transaction with a store member at each participating store. When a store member requests to exchange points, the member server 22 deducts the requested points from the store member's accumulated points and provides the store member with a benefit equivalent to the deducted points. The benefit may be, for example, a discount on the transaction amount or the issuance of a gift certificate.

[0024] The first communication server 23 is a computer device that provides communication services to send or receive data to and from the receipt server 11 of the receipt management system 10 via the first communication network NWa. The second communication server 24 is a computer device that provides communication services to and from the conversion server 40 via the third communication network NWc. The third communication server 25 is a computer device that provides communication services to and from the communication server 33 of each store system 30 via the second communication network NWb.

[0025] The store system 30 is a system built in franchise stores of a chain. The store system 30 is built for each franchise store. The store system 30 includes a store server 31, multiple POS (Point of Sales) terminals 32, and a communication server 33. The store server 31, the multiple POS terminals 32, and the communication server 33 are connected to an in-store network 34 provided within the store. The in-store network 34 is typically a LAN. The LAN may be a wired LAN or a wireless LAN. The store server 31, the multiple POS terminals 32, and the communication server 33 communicate data with each other via the in-store network 34.

[0026] The store server 31 is a computer device that collects information related to transactions settled at each POS terminal 32, which functions as a payment device, and processes that information to generate and output data related to store operations as needed. This data related to store operations includes, for example, sales data by product, inventory data, etc.

[0027] POS terminal 32 is a payment device that performs the process of registering data of items purchased by a consumer and the process of settling the transaction with that consumer. POS terminal 32 may be a face-to-face POS terminal where a store employee handles both the registration and payment operations, or it may be a self-service POS terminal where the consumer handles both the registration and payment operations themselves. Alternatively, POS terminal 32 may be a shared-service POS terminal where a store employee handles the registration operations and the consumer handles the payment operations. Face-to-face POS terminals, self-service POS terminals, and shared-service POS terminals can all be standard, well-known designs. POS terminal 32 can also be referred to as an electronic cash register, checkout device, product sales data processing device, product registration device, etc. Furthermore, the payment device may, for example, not have a registration function for registering products, but rather a payment device (settlement device) that has a function to process payments based on registered information. Alternatively, the payment device may be a system consisting of a tablet terminal for inputting or displaying product information, and a server connected to the tablet terminal via a communication network. In this case, the tablet terminal functions as a device for inputting product information and displaying the entered product information. The server functions as a device that receives product information entered by the tablet terminal, performs registration processing, and executes payment processing based on the registered information.

[0028] The communication server 33 is a computer device that provides communication services to the third communication server 25 of the headquarters system 20, sending or receiving data via the second communication network NWb.

[0029] The conversion server 40 is a computer device that, when a transaction with an electronic receipt member has been settled at the POS terminal 32 but the receipt could not be digitized, retrieves transaction data related to that transaction from the store system 30, converts that data into receipt data, and outputs it to the receipt server 11. In other words, the conversion server 40 is an example of a server device included in the electronic receipt system 100. The conversion server 40 may provide services in an on-premise environment or in a cloud computing environment.

[0030] As will be explained in more detail later, for example, if a transaction with an electronic receipt member is settled at the POS terminal 32 when the member server 22 is offline, the POS terminal 32 may not be able to obtain the electronic receipt ID of that electronic receipt member. If the POS terminal 32 cannot obtain the electronic receipt ID, it cannot generate receipt data. In such cases, the conversion server 40 obtains the transaction data of that transaction from the store system 30, converts that data into receipt data, and outputs it to the receipt server 11.

[0031] [Explanation of the receipt server] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the receipt server 11. The receipt server 11 includes a processor 111, main memory 112, auxiliary storage device 113, first communication interface 114, second communication interface 115, and system transmission path 116, etc. The system transmission path 116 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission path 116 connects the processor 111 to the other parts directly or via signal input / output circuits and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0032] The receipt server 11 is configured as a computer by connecting the processor 111, main memory 112, auxiliary storage device 113, first communication interface 114, and second communication interface 115 via a system transmission path 116.

[0033] The processor 111 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 111 controls various parts to realize various functions as a receipt server 11 according to the operating system or application program. The processor 111 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Preferably, the processor 111 is a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0034] Main memory 112 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 112 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area, main memory 112 stores the operating system or application programs. Main memory 112 may also store data necessary for the processor 111 to perform processing to control each part in the non-volatile or volatile memory area. Main memory 112 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processor 111. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0035] The auxiliary storage device 113 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. For example, an EEPROM (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or an SSD (Solid State Drive) can be the auxiliary storage device 113. The auxiliary storage device 113 stores data used by the processor 111 in performing various processes, data created by the processing performed by the processor 111, etc. The auxiliary storage device 113 may also store the application program described above.

[0036] The first communication interface 114 is an interface for performing data communication with the first communication server 23 and the conversion server 40 of the headquarters system 20 via the first communication network NWa.

[0037] The second communication interface 115 is an interface for performing data communication with the information terminal 200 via the fourth communication network NWd.

[0038] In this configuration, the receipt server 11 uses a portion of the storage area of ​​the auxiliary storage device 113 as the area for the receipt file 51 and the area for the linkage table 52. The receipt file 51 is a data file for accumulating the aforementioned receipt data.

[0039] As shown in Figure 3, the linkage table 52 is a data table that links the electronic receipt ID of an electronic receipt member with the store member ID of a store member. A linkage table 52 is created for each store that provides both the electronic receipt service and the membership service. That is, when an electronic receipt member becomes a member of a store that provides the membership service, the electronic receipt member's store member ID is recorded in the linkage table 52 of that store in association with the electronic receipt ID of that electronic receipt member. In this way, the linkage table 52 stores, in association with a first user identification information, i.e., the store member ID, which identifies the user of the membership service, and a second user identification information, i.e., the electronic receipt ID, which identifies the user of the electronic receipt service, when the user of the membership service, who can receive benefits by becoming a member, is also a user of the electronic receipt service. Here, the linkage table 52 functions as a storage means provided by the receipt server 11.

[0040] Furthermore, the processor 111 of the receipt server 11 has the function of a providing means 53. The function of a providing means 53 is realized by the processor 111 performing information processing based on a first control program. The first control program is a type of application software stored in the main memory 112 or auxiliary storage device 113. The method of installing the first control program in the main memory 112 or auxiliary storage device 113 is not particularly limited. The first control program can be recorded on a removable recording medium, or the first control program can be distributed via communication over a network and installed in the main memory 322 or auxiliary storage device 323. 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.

[0041] The providing means 53 is a function that periodically provides the information stored in the storage means, that is, the data of the linkage table 52, to the first server. In this embodiment, the first server is the member server 22. The processor 111 provides the data of the linkage table 52 for each store to the member server 22 located in the headquarters system 20 of that store, for example, at a predetermined time each day. Specifically, the processor 111 extracts the linkage table 52 of the store having the headquarters system 20 and transmits the extracted data of the linkage table 52 to the member server 22 via the first communication interface 114. The data of the linkage table 52 transmitted from the first communication interface 114 is received by the first communication server 23 included in the headquarters system 20 of the store in question via the first communication network NWa, and is further sent to the member server 22 via the headquarters network 26. Incidentally, the time at which the data of the linkage table 52 is provided to the first server is not particularly limited, but considering operational aspects, it is preferable that it be a predetermined time before the store's opening time. [Explanation of Member Server] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the member server 22. The member server 22 includes a processor 221, main memory 222, auxiliary storage device 223, communication interface 224, and system transmission line 225, etc. The system transmission line 225 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission line 225 connects the processor 221 to the other parts directly or via signal input / output circuits and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0042] The member server 22 is configured as a computer by connecting the processor 221, main memory 222, auxiliary storage device 223, and communication interface 224 via a system transmission path 225.

[0043] The processor 221 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 221 controls various parts to realize various functions as a member server 22 according to the operating system or application program. The processor 221 is, for example, a CPU. Preferably, the processor 221 is a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0044] Main memory 222 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 222 includes non-volatile memory areas and volatile memory areas. In the non-volatile memory area, main memory 222 stores the operating system or application programs. Main memory 222 may also store data necessary for the processor 221 to perform processing to control each part in non-volatile or volatile memory areas. Main memory 222 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as needed by the processor 221. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM.

[0045] The auxiliary storage device 223 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. For example, an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD could be the auxiliary storage device 223. The auxiliary storage device 223 stores data used by the processor 221 in performing various processes, data created by the processing performed by the processor 221, etc. The auxiliary storage device 223 may also store the application program described above.

[0046] The communication interface 224 is an interface for data communication with devices connected via the headquarters network 26, namely the headquarters server 21, the first communication server 23, the second communication server 24, and the third communication server 25.

[0047] In this configuration, the member server 22 uses a portion of the storage area of ​​the auxiliary storage device 223 as the area for the member database 61 and the area for the linkage table 521. The linkage table 521 represents the linkage table 52 provided to the receipt server 11 by the provision means 53. The member database 61 stores member records created for each store member. Each member record is associated with a store member ID and stores the current points held by the store member identified by that store member ID.

[0048] The processor 221 of the member server 22 has the function of a search means 62. The function of the search means 62 is realized by the processor 221 performing information processing based on a second control program. The second control program is a type of application software stored in the main memory 222 or auxiliary storage device 223. The method of installing the second control program in the main memory 222 or auxiliary storage device 223 is not particularly limited. The second control program can be recorded on a removable recording medium, or the second control program can be distributed via network communication and installed in the main memory 222 or auxiliary storage device 223. 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.

[0049] The search means 62 is a function that searches whether an electronic receipt ID is linked to a store member's store member ID. When the search means 62 obtains the store member ID of a store member whose transaction was settled at one of the POS terminals 32 of the store system 30, it searches the linkage table 521. If the store member ID and the electronic receipt ID are listed together in the table, the search means 62 determines that the electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID. The search means 62 then transmits the electronic receipt ID to the POS terminal 32 that settled the transaction of the store member identified by the store member ID.

[0050] [Store Server Description] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the store server 31. The store server 31 includes a processor 311, main memory 312, auxiliary storage device 313, clock 314, communication interface 315, and system transmission path 316, etc. The system transmission path 316 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission path 316 connects the processor 311 to the other parts directly or via signal input / output circuits and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0051] The store server 31 is configured as a computer by connecting the processor 311, main memory 312, auxiliary storage device 313, clock 314, and communication interface 315 via a system transmission path 316.

[0052] The processor 311 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 311 controls various parts to realize various functions as a store server 31 according to the operating system or application program. The processor 311 is, for example, a CPU. Preferably, the processor 311 is a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0053] Main memory 312 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 312 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area, main memory 312 stores the operating system or application programs. Main memory 312 may also store data necessary for the processor 311 to perform processing to control each part in the non-volatile or volatile memory area. Main memory 312 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as needed by the processor 311. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM.

[0054] The auxiliary storage device 313 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. For example, an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD could be the auxiliary storage device 313. The auxiliary storage device 313 stores data used by the processor 311 in performing various processes, data created by the processing performed by the processor 311, etc. The auxiliary storage device 313 may also store the application program described above.

[0055] The clock 314 measures the date and time. The processor 311 processes the date and time measured by the clock 314 as the current date and time.

[0056] The communication interface 315 is an interface for data communication with devices connected via the in-store network 34, namely each POS terminal 32 and the communication server 33.

[0057] In this configuration, the store server 31 uses a portion of the storage area of ​​the auxiliary storage device 223 as a storage area 71 for transaction files 70. Transaction files 70 are data files created each time a transaction is settled at the POS terminal 32. Each time a transaction is settled at the POS terminal 32, the store server 31 receives the transaction file 70 created at the POS terminal 32 via the in-store network 34 and saves it to the storage area 71.

[0058] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the main items of data described in transaction file 70. As shown in the figure, transaction file 70 contains data identified by items such as transaction ID, transaction date and time, register number, person in charge information, purchase data, subtotal amount, tax amount, total data, payment data, store member ID, electronic receipt ID, and processing status ST. The data for each item described in transaction file 70 is collectively referred to as transaction data. Transaction file 70 stores transaction data in format such as CSV (Comma Separated Values).

[0059] The transaction ID is identification information generated for each transaction to individually identify transactions settled at the POS terminal 32. The transaction date and time is the date and time the transaction was settled. The register number is a number used to identify the POS terminal 32 that settled the transaction. Each POS terminal 32 is assigned a serial number, for example, starting with "1", as its register number. The responsible person information is the information of the employee who operated the POS terminal 32. The employee signs in when they begin operating the POS terminal 32. Upon receiving this sign-in, the POS terminal 32 sets the employee's employee code or name, etc., as responsible person information.

[0060] Purchase data includes the price, number of items, etc., purchased by the consumer, who is the subject of the transaction. The subtotal is the sum of the pre-tax prices of the items purchased by the subject. The tax amount is the sum of the taxes levied on the items purchased by the subject. The total data is the total number of items and the total price of the items purchased by the subject. Payment data is the method and amount of payment by the consumer for the total amount. For example, if the total amount is 50 yen and the subject pays 100 yen in cash, the payment data would be cash, payment amount 100 yen, and change 50 yen.

[0061] The Store Member ID is recorded in the transaction file 70 only if the transaction subject is a store member. If the transaction subject is not a store member, the Store Member ID is not included in the transaction file 70. The Electronic Receipt ID is recorded in the transaction file 70 only if the transaction subject is an electronic receipt member. If the transaction subject is not an electronic receipt member, the Electronic Receipt ID is not included in the transaction file 70.

[0062] The processing status ST is data indicating the state of the transaction file 70. The transaction file 70 has two states: an unprocessed state in which processing by the extraction means 73 (described later) has not been performed, and a processed state in which processing by the extraction means 73 has been performed. In this embodiment, the processing status ST indicating the unprocessed state is set to "0", and the processing status ST indicating the processed state is set to "1".

[0063] Note that the items in the transaction data are not limited to those shown in Figure 6. Other items may be added, or some of the items shown in Figure 1 may be omitted.

[0064] The processor 311 of the store server 31 has functions related to the transaction file 70, namely a storage means 72 and an extraction means 73. The functions of the storage means 72 and the extraction means 73 are realized by information processing performed by the processor 311 in accordance with a third control program. The third control program is a type of application software stored in the main memory 312 or auxiliary storage device 313. The method of installing the third control program in the main memory 312 or auxiliary storage device 313 is not particularly limited. The third control program can be recorded on a removable recording medium, or the third control program can be distributed via network communication and installed in the main memory 312 or auxiliary storage device 313. 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.

[0065] The storage means 72 has the function of storing a transaction file 70 that describes the subject identification information that identifies the subject of a transaction settled by the payment device and the data relating to the details of that transaction. In this embodiment, the payment device is a POS terminal 32. The subject identification information is the store member ID. The data relating to the details of the transaction includes purchase data, subtotal amount, tax amount, total data, payment data, etc. When the storage means 72 receives a transaction file 70 from the POS terminal 32, it writes the transaction file 70 to the storage area 71 and stores it. The storage means 72 may store only the transaction files 70 that describe the store member ID from the POS terminal 32 in the storage area 71. That is, transaction files 70 that do not contain the store member ID do not need to be stored in the storage area 71.

[0066] The extraction means 73 is a function that extracts transaction files 70 for transactions for which receipt data has not been generated from the transaction files 70 stored in the storage area 71. Transaction files 70 for transactions for which receipt data has been generated include an electronic receipt ID. The extraction means 73 extracts transaction files 70 from the transaction files 70 stored in the storage area 71 that include a store member ID but do not include an electronic receipt ID.

[0067] [POS terminal description] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the POS terminal 32. The POS terminal 32 includes a processor 321, main memory 322, auxiliary storage device 323, clock 324, communication interface 325, keyboard 326, display 327, scanner 328, printer 329, card reader 3210, change dispenser 3211, and system transmission line 3212, etc. The system transmission line 3212 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission line 3212 connects the processor 321 and the other parts directly or via signal input / output circuits, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0068] The POS terminal 32 constitutes a computer by connecting the processor 321, main memory 322, auxiliary storage device 323, clock 324, and communication interface 325 via a system transmission path 3212. The POS terminal 32 then connects the keyboard 326, display 327, scanner 328, printer 329, card reader 3210, change dispenser 3211, etc., to this computer via the system transmission path 3212 through signal input / output circuits (not shown). Note that the devices connected to the system transmission path 3212 are not limited to the above-mentioned devices. Other devices, such as a touch panel or cashless payment terminal, may also be connected.

[0069] The processor 321 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 321 controls each part to realize various functions as a POS terminal 32 according to the operating system or application program. The processor 321 is, for example, a CPU. Preferably, the processor 321 is a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0070] Main memory 322 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 322 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area, main memory 322 stores the operating system or application programs. Main memory 322 may also store data necessary for the processor 321 to perform processing to control each part in the non-volatile or volatile memory area. Main memory 322 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as needed by the processor 321. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM.

[0071] The auxiliary storage device 323 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. For example, an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD could be the auxiliary storage device 323. The auxiliary storage device 323 stores data used by the processor 321 in performing various processes, data created by the processing performed by the processor 321, etc. The auxiliary storage device 323 may also store the application program described above.

[0072] Clock 324 measures the date and time. Processor 321 processes the date and time measured by clock 324 as the current date and time.

[0073] The communication interface 325 is an interface for data communication with devices connected via the in-store network 34, namely the store server 31 and the communication server 33.

[0074] The keyboard 326 is an input device with various keys necessary for registering items and settling transactions. The display 327 is a display device for displaying the name, price, total amount, etc., of registered items. The scanner 328 is an input device for reading machine-readable codes such as barcodes and 2D codes. The printer 329 is a printing device for printing data onto receipt paper and issuing receipts, etc. The card reader 3210 is an input device for reading data recorded on card media. The change dispenser 3211 is a device that can accept deposits and dispense change.

[0075] In the POS terminal 32 with this configuration, the agent program 81 is stored in the auxiliary storage device 323. The agent program 81 is application software for generating receipt data, which is an electronic version of the receipt printed and issued by the printer 329. Specifically, the agent program 81 analyzes the print data of the receipt to extract information that should be included in the receipt data, and determines an item name that indicates what kind of information it is based on its position on the receipt. The agent program 81 then generates receipt data that represents the association between the extracted information and the item name determined for that information.

[0076] The processor 321 of the POS terminal 32 has the functions of a member ID acquisition means 82, a linked ID acquisition means 83, a file creation means 84, a printing means 85, a first generation means 86, and a first output means 87. The functions of the member ID acquisition means 82, linked ID acquisition means 83, file creation means 84, printing means 85, first generation means 86, and first output means 87 are realized by the processor 321 performing information processing based on a fourth control program. The fourth control program is a type of application software stored in the main memory 322 or auxiliary storage device 323. The method of installing the fourth control program in the main memory 322 or auxiliary storage device 323 is not particularly limited. The fourth control program can be recorded on a removable recording medium, or the fourth control program can be distributed via network communication and installed in the main memory 322 or auxiliary storage device 323. 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.

[0077] The member ID acquisition means 82 is a function that reads the store member ID of a store member. The store member ID is displayed, for example, on the display device of an information terminal 200 owned by the store member in the form of a machine-readable code such as a barcode or a two-dimensional code. Alternatively, the store member ID is recorded on the member card owned by the store member. The member ID acquisition means 82 reads the machine-readable code displayed on the display device with the scanner 328. Alternatively, the member ID acquisition means 82 reads the card data recorded on the member card with the card reader 3210. The member ID acquisition means 82 then acquires the store member ID by analyzing the machine-readable code read by the scanner 328 or the card data read by the card reader 3210.

[0078] The linked ID acquisition means 83 is a function that acquires an electronic receipt ID linked to the store member ID acquired by the member ID acquisition means 82. The electronic receipt ID linked to the store member ID is stored in the linked table 521. The linked table 521 is owned by the member server 22. The linked ID acquisition means 83 acquires the electronic receipt ID linked to the store member ID from the member server 22.

[0079] The file creation means 84 is a function that creates a transaction file 70 related to a transaction each time a transaction with a trading partner is settled. When a transaction with a trading partner is settled, the file creation means 84 creates a transaction file 70 consisting of items such as transaction ID, transaction date and time, register number, responsible person information, purchase data, subtotal amount, tax amount, total data, payment data, store member ID, electronic receipt ID, and processing status ST, as explained with reference to Figure 6. At this time, if the store member ID has been obtained by the member ID acquisition means 82, the file creation means 84 includes that store member ID in the transaction file 70. If the electronic receipt ID has been obtained by the linkage ID acquisition means 83, the file creation means 84 includes that electronic receipt ID in the transaction file 70. Conversely, if the store member ID has not been obtained, the store member ID will not be included in the transaction file 70. If the electronic receipt ID has not been obtained, the electronic receipt ID will not be included in the transaction file 70. The processing status ST is a value of "0" which indicates an unprocessed state.

[0080] The printing means 85 is a function that prints a receipt showing the details of a transaction if it is not possible to determine at the time the transaction is settled that the person subject to the transaction settled at the POS terminal 32 is a user of the electronic receipt service. If the linked ID acquisition means 83 can obtain the electronic receipt ID, then the person subject to the transaction is a user of the electronic receipt service. If the printing means 85 is unable to obtain the electronic receipt ID when the transaction is settled at the POS terminal 32, it generates print data for printing a receipt showing the details of the transaction, outputs it to the printer 329, and controls the receipt printing.

[0081] The first generation means 86 is a function that generates electronic receipt data of a receipt representing the details of a transaction if, based on information held by the first server, it is determined at the time the transaction is settled that the person subject to the transaction settled at the POS terminal 32 is a user of an electronic receipt service that receives a receipt representing the details of the transaction as electronic data. The first server is the member server 22. The information held by the first server is the data in the linkage table 521. When the first generation means 86 obtains an electronic receipt ID when a transaction is settled at the POS terminal 32, it analyzes the printed data of the receipt representing the details of the transaction according to the agent program 81 and generates receipt data.

[0082] The first output means 87 has the function of outputting the receipt data generated by the first generation means 86 to the receipt server 11. The first output means 87 controls the transmission of the receipt data from the communication interface 325. Through this control, the receipt data is transmitted to the receipt server 11 via the communication server 33, the second communication network NWb, the first communication server 23, and the first communication network NWa. The receipt data transmitted to the receipt server 11 is stored in the receipt file 51.

[0083] [Explanation of the conversion server] Figure 8 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the conversion server 40. The conversion server 40 includes a processor 401, main memory 402, auxiliary storage device 403, first communication interface 404, second communication interface 405, and system transmission path 406, etc. The system transmission path 406 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission path 406 connects the processor 401 to the other parts directly or via signal input / output circuits and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0084] The conversion server 40 constitutes a computer by connecting the processor 401, main memory 402, auxiliary storage device 403, first communication interface 404, and second communication interface 405 via a system transmission path 406.

[0085] The processor 401 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 401 controls each part in order to realize various functions as a conversion server 40 according to the operating system or application program. The processor 401 is, for example, a CPU. Preferably, the processor 401 is a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0086] Main memory 402 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 402 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area, main memory 402 stores the operating system or application programs. Main memory 402 may also store data necessary for the processor 401 to perform processing to control each part in the non-volatile or volatile memory area. Main memory 402 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as needed by the processor 401. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM.

[0087] The auxiliary storage device 403 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. For example, an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD could be the auxiliary storage device 403. The auxiliary storage device 403 stores data used by the processor 401 in performing various processes, data created by the processing performed by the processor 401, etc. The auxiliary storage device 403 may also store the application program described above.

[0088] The first communication interface 404 is an interface for data communication with the second communication server 24 of the headquarters system 20 via the third communication network NWc.

[0089] The second communication interface 405 is an interface for performing data communication with the receipt server 11 via the first communication network NWa.

[0090] In this configuration, the conversion server 40 stores the receipt digitization program 91 in the auxiliary storage device 403. The receipt digitization program 91 is application software for generating receipt data based on transaction data described in the transaction file 70.

[0091] The processor 401 of the conversion server 40 has the functions of a file acquisition means 92, a query means 93, a second generation means 94, and a second output means 95. The functions of the file acquisition means 92, the query means 93, the second generation means 94, and the second output means 95 are realized by information processing executed by the processor 401 in accordance with a fifth control program. The fifth control program is a type of application software stored in the main memory 402 or an auxiliary storage device 403. The method of installing the fifth control program in the main memory 402 or auxiliary storage device 403 is not particularly limited. The fifth control program can be recorded on a removable recording medium, or the fifth control program can be distributed via communication over a network and installed in the main memory 402 or auxiliary storage device 403. 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.

[0092] The file acquisition means 92 is a function that acquires the transaction files 70 extracted by the extraction means 73 of the store server 31. The file acquisition means 92 acquires the transaction files 70 that are output from the store server 31 of the store system 30 and input to the first communication interface 404 via the second communication network NWb and the third communication network NWc. Each time the file acquisition means 92 acquires a transaction file 70, it stores that transaction file 70 in the order it was acquired, for example, in the main memory 402.

[0093] The query means 93 is a function that searches whether an electronic receipt ID is linked to a store member ID described in the transaction file 70 acquired by the file acquisition means 92. The query means 93 queries the receipt server 11, which is connected via the first communication network NWa, to whether an electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID in question. Upon receiving this query, the processor 111 of the receipt server 11 searches the linkage table 52. If the store member ID and the electronic receipt ID are described in association in the linkage table 52, the processor 111 sends the electronic receipt ID to the conversion server 40. When the query means 93 receives the electronic receipt ID from the receipt server 11 via the first communication network NWa, it describes the electronic receipt ID in the transaction file 70 in which the store member ID that made the query is described.

[0094] The second generation means 94 is a function that generates receipt data based on the transaction details data described in the transaction file 70 when it can determine, using information held by a second server different from the first server, that the person identified by the person identification information described in the transaction file 70 extracted by the extraction means 73, that is, the transaction file 70 acquired by the file acquisition means 92, is a user of the electronic receipt service. The first server is the member server 22 which stores the data of the linkage table 521 transmitted from the receipt server 11. The second server is the receipt server 11 which has the linkage table 52. The person identification information is the store member ID. If the second generation means 94 receives an electronic receipt ID as a result of querying the receipt server 11 by the inquiry means 93, it recognizes that the person identified by the person identification information is a user of the electronic receipt service.

[0095] The second generation means 94 generates receipt data according to the receipt digitization program 91 based on the data in the transaction file 70, which contains the store member ID, which is the target identification information. Specifically, it extracts data for items that should be included in the receipt data by analyzing the transaction data of the transaction file 70, which is saved in CSV format. The second generation means 94 then generates receipt data using the extracted item data and item names.

[0096] The second output means 95 has the function of outputting receipt data generated by the second generation means 94 to the receipt server 11. The second output means 95 controls the transmission of receipt data from the second communication interface 405. Through this control, the receipt data is transmitted to the receipt server 11 via the first communication network NWa. The receipt data transmitted to the receipt server 11 is stored in the receipt file 51.

[0097] [Explanation of how the electronic receipt system works] Figures 9 and 10 are flowcharts showing the main information processing steps performed by the processor 321 of the POS terminal 32 according to the fourth control program. Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the main information processing steps performed by the processor 311 of the store server 31 according to the third control program. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the main information processing steps performed by the processor 401 of the conversion server 40 according to the fifth control program. The main operations of the electronic receipt system 100 will be explained below using each of these figures. Note that the content and procedures of the information processing described below are examples. The content and procedures can be modified as appropriate if similar effects can be achieved.

[0098] When the processor 321 of the POS terminal 32 receives a command to start a transaction, for example, by inputting a start key located on the keyboard 326, it begins processing information according to the procedure shown in the flowchart in Figure 9. The processor 321 resets the first flag Fa and the second flag Fb to "0" as ACT1. Both the first flag Fa and the second flag Fb are 1-bit data stored in the main memory 322. The functions of the first flag Fa and the second flag Fb will be clarified in the operation description described later.

[0099] After resetting the first flag Fa and the second flag Fb to "0", processor 321 proceeds to ACT2. In ACT2, processor 321 checks whether or not the store member ID has been obtained. If the store member ID has not been obtained, processor 321 proceeds to ACT3. In ACT3, processor 321 checks whether or not data related to the item being traded has been entered. If data related to the item has not been entered, processor 321 proceeds to ACT4. In ACT4, processor 321 checks whether or not either the first flag Fa or the second flag Fb is set to "1". At this point, since both the first flag Fa and the second flag Fb have been reset to "0", processor 321 returns to ACT2. Thus, when both the first flag Fa and the second flag Fb have been reset to "0", processor 321 waits for either the store member ID to be obtained or data related to the item to be entered.

[0100] If the customer is a store member, the operator of the POS terminal 32 uses the scanner 328 or card reader 3210 to enter the store member ID. After entering the store member ID, or if the customer is not a store member, the operator enters data related to the items the customer is purchasing. This data is, for example, a product code. The product code is a unique code assigned to each product to identify it individually. Each product has a barcode that represents the product code. The operator can enter the data related to the items by having the scanner 328 read the barcode attached to the product. In the case of a face-to-face POS terminal or a shared POS terminal, the operator is a store employee. In the case of a self-service POS terminal, the operator is the customer.

[0101] When the processor 321, in the waiting state for ACT2 and ACT3, obtains a store member ID through its function as a member ID acquisition means 82, it proceeds to ACT5. The processor 321 stores the store member ID as ACT5. The stored store member ID is subject identification information that identifies the person who made the payment at the payment device, i.e., the POS terminal 3.

[0102] The processor 321, having stored the store member ID, proceeds to ACT6. As ACT6, the processor 321 queries the member server 22 to determine whether an electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID. That is, the processor 321 controls the communication interface 325 to send an electronic receipt ID query command to the member server 22. This control causes the electronic receipt ID query command to be sent from the communication interface 325. The query command is transmitted in the following order: in-store network 34, communication server 33, second communication network NWb, third communication server 25, and headquarters network 26, before being sent to the member server 22. The query command includes the store member ID.

[0103] On the member server 22, the linkage table 521 is searched using the search means 62. If the electronic receipt ID is listed in the linkage table 521 in association with the store member ID included in the inquiry command, a response command including that electronic receipt ID is sent to the POS terminal 32 that sent the inquiry command. On the other hand, if the electronic receipt ID is not listed in the linkage table 521 in association with the store member ID included in the inquiry command, a response command without the electronic receipt ID is sent to the POS terminal 32 that sent the inquiry command.

[0104] The processor 321 of the POS terminal 32 that sent the inquiry command proceeds to ACT7. Processor 321 waits for a response command from the member server 22 as ACT7. Upon receiving the response command, processor 321 proceeds to ACT8. Processor 321 checks whether the electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID as ACT8. If the electronic receipt ID is included in the response command, processor 321 determines that the electronic receipt ID is linked. Processor 321 proceeds to ACT9. Processor 321 stores the electronic receipt ID included in the response command in main memory 322 as ACT9. Processor 321 also sets the first flag Fa to "1" as ACT10. At this point, processor 321 realizes its function as a linked ID acquisition means 83 through the processing of ACT6 to ACT9.

[0105] On the other hand, if in ACT7 an inquiry command is sent but no response command is received after a certain period of time, or if in ACT8 a response command is received that does not include an electronic receipt ID, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT11. In ACT11, the processor 321 sets the second flag Fb to "1".

[0106] If the first flag Fa is set to "1" in ACT10, or if the second flag Fb is set to "1" in ACT11, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT3. In ACT3, the processor 321 checks whether or not data related to the item has been entered. If no data related to the item has been entered, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT4. At this point, either the first flag Fa or the second flag Fb is set to "1", so the processor 321 returns to ACT3.

[0107] Thus, the first flag Fa is set to "1" when the electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID. The second flag Fb is set to "1" when the electronic receipt ID is not linked to the store member ID. After either the first flag Fa or the second flag Fb is set to "1", that is, after the store member ID is obtained, the processor 321 takes on the input of data related to the item.

[0108] In ACT3, when data related to an item is entered through operation input from the scanner 328 or keyboard 326, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT21 in Figure 10. The processor 321 executes the registration process as ACT21. The registration process is the process of registering purchase data, that is, data such as the amount and number of items purchased by the consumer, who is the subject of the transaction. The data is registered in a predetermined memory area reserved in the main memory 322, for example.

[0109] Processor 321, which has executed the registration process, proceeds to ACT22. Processor 321 checks whether subtotal output has been instructed. If subtotal output has not been instructed, processor 321 proceeds to ACT23. Processor 321 checks whether either the first flag Fa or the second flag Fb is set to "1" as ACT23. If both the first flag Fa and the second flag Fb are reset to "0", processor 321 returns to ACT2. Processor 321 waits for either the acquisition of the store member ID or the input of item-related data as ACT2 and ACT3. If either the first flag Fa or the second flag Fb is set to "1", processor 321 returns to ACT3. Processor 321 waits for the input of item-related data as ACT3.

[0110] Upon confirming that a subtotal output has been instructed in ACT22, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT24. The processor 321 then executes the subtotal processing as ACT24. Subtotal processing is the process of calculating the subtotal amount, tax amount, total amount, etc., based on the purchase data and displaying them on the display 327. The transaction participants, after confirming the total amount, pay the amount corresponding to that total.

[0111] Processor 321, having performed the subtotal processing, proceeds to ACT25. Processor 321 waits for payment to be made as ACT25. For example, when cash equal to or greater than the total amount is inserted into the change machine 3211, processor 321 recognizes that payment has been made. Processor 321 proceeds to ACT26. Processor 321 performs the settlement process as ACT26. The settlement process is the process of settling the transaction by calculating the change by subtracting the total amount from the amount inserted into the change machine 3211, the so-called deposit amount, and dispensing the cash equivalent to that change from the change machine 3211. Note that the settlement process is not limited to cash payments. It may also be a process of settling transactions using other payment methods such as credit cards, electronic money, or code payments.

[0112] After completing the settlement process, processor 321 proceeds to ACT27. Processor 321 creates the receipt printing data as ACT27. After creating the printing data, processor 321 proceeds to ACT28. Processor 321 checks whether the first flag Fa is set to "1" as ACT28. As mentioned above, the first flag Fa is set to "1" when a response command including the electronic receipt ID is received in response to the inquiry in ACT6. In other words, if a response command including the electronic receipt ID is not received, the first flag Fa is not set to "1". Also, if the transaction is settled in ACT2 without obtaining the store member ID, the first flag Fa is not set to "1".

[0113] If the first flag Fa is not set to "1" in ACT28, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT29. In ACT29, the processor 321, acting as the printing means 85, outputs the receipt print data to the printer 329 and controls the issuance of a paper receipt.

[0114] Thus, if the transaction recipient is not a store member, or if the store member is a store member but it is not possible to obtain the electronic receipt ID linked to that store member's store member ID, a receipt showing the transaction details will be issued as a paper receipt. Therefore, even if the transaction recipient is both a store member and an electronic receipt member, if, for example, the member server 22 is offline and therefore cannot receive a response command including the electronic receipt ID in response to the inquiry of ACT6, the receipt will not be digitized and will be given to the transaction recipient as a paper receipt.

[0115] On the other hand, if the first flag Fa is set to "1" in ACT28, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT30. The processor 321 performs the electronic receipt processing as ACT30. That is, the processor 321, functioning as the first generation means 86, generates receipt data from the receipt print data according to the agent program 81. Then, the processor 321, functioning as the first output means 87, transmits the receipt data to the receipt server 11.

[0116] Thus, if a response command including an electronic receipt ID is received in response to an inquiry in ACT6, the receipt is digitized at the POS terminal 32, and the receipt data is sent to the receipt server 11 and stored in the receipt file 51.

[0117] Processor 321, which either issues a paper receipt or transmits receipt data, proceeds to ACT 31. As ACT 31, Processor 321, using its file creation means 84, creates a transaction file 70 containing data corresponding to each item of the transaction data. Then, as ACT 32, Processor 321 transmits the transaction file 70 to the store server 31. With this, Processor 321 completes the information processing for one transaction.

[0118] The processor 311 of the store server 31 repeatedly saves the transaction file 70 to the storage area 71 using its function as a storage means 72 each time a transaction file 70 is transmitted from the POS terminal 32. In addition, the processor 311, using its function as an extraction means 73, executes the information processing procedure shown in the flowchart of Figure 11 at regular intervals.

[0119] In other words, the processor 311 waits as ACT41 for a certain amount of time to elapse since the end of the previous processing. The amount of time is arbitrary. However, since the processor 311 performs the information processing procedure shown in the flowchart of Figure 11 every time a certain amount of time has elapsed, if the interval of time is too short, the load on the processor 311 will increase. On the other hand, as will be described in detail later, by performing the information processing procedure shown in the flowchart of Figure 11, even if the electronic receipt ID linked to the store member ID could not be obtained because, for example, the member server 22 was offline, the receipt can be digitized later. For this reason, if the interval of time is too long, it will take time for the electronic receipt member to receive the electronic receipt, which is undesirable. Considering these circumstances, it is necessary to determine the amount of time. In this embodiment, the amount of time is set to 15 minutes.

[0120] After a certain period of time has elapsed, the processor 311 proceeds to ACT42. As ACT42, the processor 311 resets counter N to "0". Next, the processor 311 proceeds to ACT43. As ACT43, the processor 311 detects the transaction files 70 stored in the storage area 71. The processor 311 detects the transaction files 70 in the storage area 71, working backward from the most recently stored transaction file 70. As ACT44, the processor 311 checks whether the processing status ST of the detected transaction file 70 is "0". Transaction files 70 with a processing status ST of "0" are transaction files 70 that have not been processed by the information processing based on the extraction means 73.

[0121] Upon confirming that the processing status ST of the detected transaction file 70 is "0", the processor 311 proceeds to ACT45. In ACT45, the processor 311 checks whether the transaction data of the transaction file 70 contains an electronic receipt ID. If the transaction data of the transaction file 70 contains an electronic receipt ID, then the transaction file 70 is a transaction file that describes transaction data related to a transaction with a person who digitized a receipt at the POS terminal 32. The processor 311 then proceeds to ACT49. The processing from ACT49 onward will be described later.

[0122] In contrast, if the transaction data of transaction file 70 contains an electronic receipt ID, that is, if the POS terminal 32 detects a transaction file 70 that describes transaction data related to a transaction with a customer who has not digitized receipts, the processor 311 proceeds to ACT46. As ACT46, the processor 311 checks whether the transaction data of that transaction file 70 contains a store member ID. If the transaction data of transaction file 70 does not contain a store member ID, then that transaction file 70 is a transaction file 70 that describes transaction data related to a transaction with a non-store member. The processor 311 proceeds to ACT49. The processing from ACT49 onward will be described later.

[0123] In contrast, if the transaction data in transaction file 70 contains a store member ID, that is, if a transaction file 70 describing transaction data related to a transaction with a store member is detected, the processor 311 proceeds to ACT47. The processor 311 extracts the transaction file as ACT47. The processor 311 also increments counter N by "1" as ACT48. After that, the processor 311 proceeds to ACT49. The extracted transaction file 70 is temporarily stored, for example, in main memory 312.

[0124] Thus, if the processor 311 detects a transaction file 70 that includes an electronic receipt ID, or a transaction file 70 that does not include either an electronic receipt ID or a store member ID, or if it extracts a transaction file 70 that does not include an electronic receipt ID but does include a store member ID, the processor 311 proceeds to ACT49. As ACT49, the processor 311 rewrites the processing status ST of the transaction file 70 stored in the storage area 71 from "0" to "1". After that, the processor 311 returns to ACT43.

[0125] The processor 311 detects the next transaction file 70 from the storage area 71. If the processing status ST of that transaction file 70 is "0", the processor 311 executes the processing of ACT45 to ACT49 in the same manner as described above.

[0126] Processor 311 repeatedly executes ACT45 through ACT49 until it detects a transaction file 70 with a processing status ST of "1". In ACT44, once it is confirmed that the processing status ST of transaction file 70 is "1", all transaction files 70 previously stored in the storage area 71 have been processed. Processor 311 proceeds from ACT44 to ACT50. In ACT50, Processor 311 checks whether counter N is "1" or greater.

[0127] If counter N is "1" or greater, an extracted transaction file 70 exists. Processor 311 proceeds to ACT 51. Processor 311 controls the system to output the extracted transaction file 70 as ACT 51 to the conversion server 40. This control transmits the extracted transaction file 70 in the following order: communication interface 315, headquarters network 26, second communication server 24, and third communication network NWc, before sending it to the conversion server 40. After outputting the transaction file 70 to the conversion server 40, Processor 311 terminates the information processing procedure shown in the flowchart in Figure 11. If counter N is "0" in ACT 50, the transaction file 70 has not been extracted, so Processor 311 skips the processing of ACT 51 and terminates the information processing.

[0128] Next, the main information processing of the conversion server 40, which receives the transaction file 70 extracted by the store server 31, will be explained using Figure 12. As shown in Figure 12, the processor 401 of the conversion server 40, functioning as a file acquisition means 92 (ACT 61), awaits the acquisition of the transaction file 70. Upon receiving the transaction file 70 extracted by the store server 31 via the second communication interface 405, the processor 401 proceeds to ACT 62. As ACT 62, the processor 401, functioning as an inquiry means 93, acquires the store member ID from the transaction file 70. The processor 401 then controls the receipt server 11 to output an electronic receipt ID inquiry command as ACT 93. This control sends the electronic receipt ID inquiry command from the second communication interface 405 to the receipt server 11 via the first communication network NWa. The electronic receipt ID inquiry command includes the store member ID acquired in ACT 62. It also includes a store code that identifies the store. The store code is stored in the conversion server 40.

[0129] When the receipt server 11 receives an inquiry command for the electronic receipt ID, the processor 111 retrieves the store code and store member ID from the inquiry command. The processor 111 then searches the linkage table 52 for the store identified by the store code to check whether the electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID. If the electronic receipt ID is linked, the processor 111 sends a response command containing the electronic receipt ID back to the conversion server 40 that sent the inquiry command. Conversely, if the electronic receipt ID is not linked, the processor 111 sends a response command that does not contain the electronic receipt ID back to the conversion server 40 that sent the inquiry command.

[0130] The processor 401 of the conversion server 40, which sent the query command for the electronic receipt ID, proceeds to ACT64. Processor 401 waits for a response command as ACT64. Upon receiving a response command via the second communication interface 405, processor 401 proceeds to ACT65. Processor 401 checks as ACT65 whether the response command contains the electronic receipt ID.

[0131] If the response command does not include an electronic receipt ID, there is no electronic receipt ID to link to the store member ID detected from the transaction file 70. The processor 401 terminates the information processing for the procedure shown in the flowchart in Figure 12.

[0132] On the other hand, if the response command includes an electronic receipt ID, the electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID detected from the transaction file 70. Processor 401 proceeds to ACT66. Processor 401 executes the electronic receipt processing as ACT66. That is, processor 401, functioning as a second generation means 94, generates receipt data from the transaction data of the transaction file 70 according to the electronic receipt program 91. Then, processor 401, functioning as a second output means 95, sends the receipt data to the receipt server 11. With this, processor 401 completes the information processing procedure shown in the flowchart of Figure 12.

[0133] [Explanation of how the electronic receipt system works] Figure 13 is a sequence diagram showing the case when the POS terminal 32 obtains an electronic receipt ID from the member server 22. When the POS terminal 32 obtains the store member ID of the transaction recipient (ACT 5), it queries the member server 22 to find out whether an electronic receipt ID is linked to that store member ID (ACT 6). In response to this query, the POS terminal 32 sends a query command including the store member ID to the member server 22.

[0134] The member server 22 searches the linkage table 521 using the store member ID included in the inquiry command. If the result shows that an electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID, the member server 22 sends a response command containing the electronic receipt ID to the POS terminal 32.

[0135] Upon receiving a response command containing the electronic receipt ID, the POS terminal 32 completes the registration process (ACT21) and payment process (ACT26), and then, in accordance with the agent program 81, executes the electronic receipt conversion process based on the printed receipt data (ACT30). As a result, the receipt data is transmitted from the POS terminal 32 to the receipt server 11. The receipt data is stored in the receipt file 51 of the receipt server 11. In addition, a transaction file 70 is transmitted from the POS terminal 32 to the store server 31. The transaction file 70 contains transaction data including the store member ID and the electronic receipt ID. The transaction file 70 is stored in the storage area 71 of the store server 31.

[0136] Figure 14 is a sequence diagram showing the case when the POS terminal 32 is unable to obtain the electronic receipt ID from the member server 22. When the POS terminal 32 obtains the store member ID of the transaction recipient (ACT 5), it queries the member server 22 to find out whether or not an electronic receipt ID is associated with that store member ID (ACT 6). In response to this query, the POS terminal 32 sends a query command including the store member ID to the member server 22.

[0137] At this time, if, for example, the member server 22 is down and offline, the member server 22 will not respond to inquiries from the POS terminal 32. Therefore, the POS terminal 32 cannot obtain the electronic receipt ID. After completing the registration process (ACT 21) and payment process (ACT 26), the POS terminal 32, having failed to obtain the electronic receipt ID, does not execute the electronic receipt creation process. The POS terminal 32 sends the transaction file 70 to the store server 31. The transaction file 70 contains transaction data that includes the store member ID but does not include the electronic receipt ID. The transaction file 70 is stored in the storage area 71 of the store server 31.

[0138] The store server 31 extracts transaction files 70 that contain the store member ID but do not contain the electronic receipt ID from the transaction files 70 stored in the storage area 71 at regular intervals (if YES in ACT 41) (ACT 47). The store server 31 then outputs the extracted transaction files 70 to the conversion server 40 (ACT 51). Through this process, the store server 31 sends transaction files 70 that contain the store member ID but do not contain the electronic receipt ID to the conversion server 40.

[0139] When the conversion server 40 receives the transaction file 70, it queries the receipt server 11 to determine whether the electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID contained in the transaction file 70 (ACT63). In response to this query, the conversion server 40 sends a query command containing the store member ID to the receipt server 11.

[0140] The receipt server 11 searches the linkage table 52 using the store member ID included in the inquiry command. If, as a result, an electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID, the receipt server 11 sends a response command containing the electronic receipt ID to the conversion server 40.

[0141] Upon receiving the response command, the conversion server 40 executes the electronic receipt processing (ACT66) based on the transaction data described in the transaction file 70, in accordance with the electronic receipt program 91. As a result, the receipt data is sent from the conversion server 40 to the receipt server 11. The receipt data is stored in the receipt file 51 of the receipt server 11.

[0142] Thus, because the POS terminal 32 was able to obtain an electronic receipt ID linked to the store member ID, not only the receipt data generated by the POS terminal 32, but also the receipt data of transactions generated by the conversion server 40, which was unable to obtain an electronic receipt ID linked to the store member ID at the POS terminal 32 but was able to obtain an electronic receipt ID linked to the store member ID at the conversion server 40, is saved in the receipt file 51.

[0143] Figure 15 shows an example of a receipt image REa displayed on the display device of the information terminal 200 using receipt data generated by the POS terminal 32. Figure 16 shows an example of a receipt image REb displayed on the display device of the information terminal 200 using receipt data generated by the conversion server 40.

[0144] As shown in Figure 15, the receipt image REa displays header data such as store name and logo (ITa), commercial message (ITb), transaction date and time (ITc), register number (ITd), person in charge information (ITe), purchase data (ITf), total amount (ITg), tax amount (ITh), payment data (ITi), store member ID (ITj), transaction ID (ITk), etc.

[0145] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 16, the receipt image REb displays header data such as store name and logo (ITa), transaction date and time (ITc), register number (ITd), person in charge information (ITe), purchase data (ITf), total amount (ITg), tax amount (ITh), payment data (ITi), store member ID (ITj), transaction ID (ITk), etc. The commercial message (ITb) is not displayed because it is not included in the transaction data. However, even if the commercial message (ITb) is not displayed, the transaction date and time (ITc), register number (ITd), person in charge information (ITe), purchase data (ITf), total amount (ITg), tax amount (ITh), payment data (ITi), etc., which are necessary information for a receipt, are displayed, so there is no problem with the electronic receipt system 100.

[0146] As detailed above, according to this embodiment, even if, for example, the member server 22 was offline and therefore could not obtain the electronic receipt ID linked to the store member ID, it is possible to provide an electronic receipt system 100 that can later digitize receipts.

[0147] Furthermore, the linkage table 521 held by the member server 22 is distributed from the receipt server 11, for example, once a day. Therefore, information about transaction participants who linked their store member ID and electronic receipt ID on the day of the transaction is not added to the linkage table 521. Consequently, the POS terminal 32 cannot obtain the electronic receipt ID linked to the store member ID. However, the linkage table 521 held by the receipt server 11 has information about transaction participants who linked their store member ID and electronic receipt ID on the day of the transaction added in real time. Therefore, according to this embodiment, there is an advantage in that the receipt for the transaction can be digitized even for transaction participants who linked their store member ID and electronic receipt ID on the day of the transaction.

[0148] [Other embodiments] In the above embodiment, the receipt digitization program 91 is installed on the conversion server 40, and the processor 401 of the conversion server 40 performs the functions of file acquisition means 92, query means 93, second generation means 94, and second output means 95. In another embodiment, for example, the receipt digitization program 91 is installed on the headquarters server 21. Furthermore, the processor of the headquarters server 21 is programmed to perform the functions of file acquisition means 92, query means 93, second generation means 94, and second output means 95. In other words, the headquarters server 21 is given the functions of the conversion server 40. Needless to say, adopting such a configuration will produce the same effects as the above embodiment. Incidentally, in such an embodiment, the headquarters server 21 becomes a server device included in the electronic receipt system 100.

[0149] Furthermore, the store server 31 can also be equipped with the functionality of a conversion server 40. In this case, the store server 31 becomes a server device included in the electronic receipt system 100. That is, the server device comprises: a storage means for storing transaction files that describe subject identification information identifying the person subject to a transaction settled by a payment device and data relating to the details of that transaction; an extraction means for extracting transaction files from the transaction files stored by the storage means for transactions for which receipt data has not been generated; a file acquisition means for acquiring the transaction files extracted by the extraction means; a generation means for generating receipt data based on the data relating to the details of the transaction described in the transaction file, when it is possible to determine from information held by a second server different from the first server that the person identified by the subject identification information described in the transaction file acquired by the file acquisition means is a user of the electronic receipt service; and an output means for outputting the receipt data generated by the generation means to a receipt server.

[0150] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which the store server 31 has the functions of a storage means 72 and an extraction means 73. However, in other embodiments, the headquarters server 21 or the conversion server 40 may be configured to have the functions of a storage means 72 and an extraction means 73. For example, by having the conversion server 40 have the functions of a storage means 72 and an extraction means 73, a server device equipped with a storage means 72 and an extraction means 73 in addition to a file acquisition means 92, a second generation means 94, and a second output means 95 can be configured by the conversion server 40.

[0151] In the above embodiment, the processor 311 of the store server 31 detected transaction files 70 in the storage area 71 in ACT43 of Figure 11, starting with the most recently saved transaction file 70 and working backward in time. Alternatively, transaction files 70 could be detected in the storage area 71 in chronological order, starting with the oldest saved transaction file 70 and working backward in time. In any case, the processor 311 of the store server 31 should be programmed to detect unprocessed transaction files 70 from the storage area 71, i.e., transaction files with a processing status ST of "0", execute the processing in ACT45 to ACT49, and then execute the processing in ACT50 and ACT51 once the detection is complete.

[0152] In the above embodiment, the first server was designated as the member server 22. The first server is not limited to the member server 22. In short, any server that stores the linkage table 52 periodically distributed from the receipt server 11 and can output information indicating that the person subject to a transaction settled by a payment device, such as a POS terminal 32, is an electronic receipt member, i.e., an electronic receipt ID, to the payment device, is acceptable. Similarly, the second server is not limited to the receipt server 11. In short, any server equipped with a linkage table 52 that can immediately add data associating the electronic receipt ID and the store member ID when the electronic receipt ID and the store member ID are linked is acceptable.

[0153] In the above embodiment, an electronic receipt system 100 for chain stores was exemplified, but the stores may be independent stores. In the case of independent stores, since there is no headquarters system 20, the store system 30 can achieve the same effects as in the above embodiment by having functions as a member server 22, a first communication server 23, and a second communication server 24.

[0154] 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]

[0155] 10...Receipt management system, 11...Receipt server, 20...Head office system, Head office server 21, 22...Member server, 23...First communication server, 24...Second communication server, 25...Third communication server, 30...Store system, 31...Store server, 32...POS terminal, 33...Communication server, 40...Conversion server, 51...Receipt file, 52, 521...Linkage table, 53...Provisioning means, 61...Member database, 62...Search means, 70...Retrieval 71...Retrieval file, 72...Storage area, 73...Storage means, 81...Extraction means, 82...Member ID acquisition means, 83...Linkage ID acquisition means, 84...File creation means, 85...Printing means, 86...First generation means, 87...First output means, 91...Receipt digitization program, 92...File acquisition means, 93...Inquiry means, 94...Second generation means, 95...Second output means, 100...Electronic receipt system, 200...Information terminal.

Claims

1. If the first server has information that allows it to determine at the time of settlement that the person subject to a transaction settled by the payment device is a user of an electronic receipt service that receives receipts showing the transaction details as electronic data, then the first generation means generates receipt data that is an electronic version of the receipt showing the transaction details. A storage means for storing a transaction file that describes subject identification information that identifies the subject of a transaction settled by the settlement device and data relating to the details of that transaction, An extraction means for extracting transaction files from the transaction files stored by the storage means for transactions for which receipt data has not been generated, If, based on information held by a second server different from the first server, it is possible to obtain that the person identified by the person identification information described in the transaction file extracted by the extraction means is a user of the electronic receipt service, the second generation means generates the receipt data based on the transaction details described in the transaction file, The receipt server that manages the receipt data includes an output means that outputs the receipt data generated by the first generation means or the second generation means, An electronic receipt system equipped with the following features.

2. The second server is, When a user of a store membership service, who can receive benefits when settling transactions by becoming a member, is also a user of the electronic receipt service, a storage means stores a first user identification information that identifies the user of the store membership service and a second user identification information that identifies the user of the electronic receipt service in association with each other. A providing means that periodically provides the information stored by the storage means to the first server, It is equipped with, The information held by the first server is information provided by the second server through the provisioning means, The electronic receipt system according to claim 1, wherein the information held by the second server is the information stored in the storage means.

3. The electronic receipt system according to claim 2, wherein the second server is the receipt server.

4. If it was not possible to determine at the time the transaction was settled that the person subject to the transaction settled by the payment device was a user of the electronic receipt service, a printing means for printing a receipt showing the details of the transaction. The electronic receipt system according to claim 1, further comprising:

5. An electronic receipt system comprising: a first generation means for generating receipt data that digitizes a receipt representing the details of a transaction, if the first server has information that, at the time the transaction is settled, it can be determined that the person subject to a transaction settled by the payment device is a user of an electronic receipt service that receives receipts representing the details of the transaction electronically; a storage means for storing a transaction file that describes subject identification information that identifies the person subject to the transaction settled by the payment device and data relating to the details of that transaction; and an extraction means for extracting transaction files from the transaction files stored by the storage means for transactions for which receipt data has not been generated; A file acquisition means for acquiring the transaction file extracted by the extraction means, If, based on information held by a second server different from the first server, the file acquisition means can determine that the person identified by the person identification information described in the transaction file acquired by the file acquisition means is a user of the electronic receipt service, the generation means generates the receipt data based on the transaction details described in the transaction file, Output means for outputting receipt data generated by the generation means to a receipt server, A server device equipped with the following features.

6. If the first server has information that allows it to determine at the time of settlement that the person subject to a transaction settled by the payment device is a user of an electronic receipt service that receives receipts representing the transaction details electronically, then the computer of the server device included in the electronic receipt system comprises: a first generation means for generating receipt data that digitizes the receipt representing the transaction details; a storage means for storing a transaction file that describes subject identification information identifying the person subject to the transaction settled by the payment device and data relating to the transaction details; and an extraction means for extracting transaction files from the transaction files stored by the storage means for transactions for which receipt data has not been generated. A file acquisition means for acquiring the transaction file extracted by the extraction means, If, based on information held by a second server different from the first server, it is possible to determine that the person identified by the person identification information described in the transaction file acquired by the file acquisition means is a user of the electronic receipt service, a generation means for generating the receipt data based on the transaction details described in the transaction file, and Output means for outputting receipt data generated by the generation means to a receipt server, A program designed to function as such.

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