System and Program

Abstract

To reduce the work load of sales clerks.SOLUTION: Provided is a POS system comprising a registration device operated by a sales clerk to register a commodity to be purchased by a customer, and a plurality of settlement devices operated by customers themselves to settle payment on the basis of registered data of the commodity. The registration device includes transmission means for transmitting the registration data to the settlement device, and the settlement device includes settlement-side selection means for receiving selection of a payment method and operated by customers themselves to pay the price of the commodity being purchased, and settlement means for settling payment by the payment method selection of which was received by the settlement-side selection means on the basis of the registration data transmitted by the transmission means. The registration device further includes registration-side selection means capable of receiving a selection of the payment method. When selection of the payment method is received by the registration-side selection means, the settlement means settles payment by the payment method the selection of which was received by the registration-side selection means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Currently, there exists a POS (Point Of Sales) system in which a registration device for registering products and a settlement device for settling the registered products are separated (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the POS system as described above, since it is also possible to operate the settlement device by the customer himself / herself, a reduction in the work load of the store clerk is expected. However, in reality, there is a problem that the work load of the store clerk has not been sufficiently reduced.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object thereof is to provide a technique for reducing the work load of a store clerk.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above problems, one aspect of the present invention is a POS system comprising a registration device operated by a store clerk to register products to be purchased by a customer, and a plurality of settlement devices operated by the customer to perform settlement, wherein the registration device comprises an input means for inputting the amount of a gift certificate and a transmission means for transmitting transaction information corresponding to the amount of a gift certificate entered by the input means so that it can be settled by the settlement device, and the settlement device comprises a receiving means for receiving the transaction information transmitted from the registration device, and based on the transaction information received by the receiving means, performs different controls depending on whether the amount of a gift certificate entered by the input means is greater than the transaction amount of the registered product or whether the transaction amount of the registered product is greater than the amount of a gift certificate entered by the input means. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to this invention, the workload of store employees is reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a POS system in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the registration POS register in this embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the POS register for settlement in this embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a perspective view showing the external configuration of the registration POS register and the settlement POS register in this embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart illustrating the operation procedure of the registration POS register in this embodiment. [Figure 6] This is an illustrative diagram showing an example of a settlement slip issued by the registration POS register in this embodiment. [Figure 7] This is an image diagram showing an example of a selection screen displayed by the registration POS register in this embodiment. [Figure 8]This is an image diagram showing an example of a withdrawal instruction screen displayed by the registration POS register in this embodiment. [Figure 9] This flowchart shows the operation procedure of the voucher settlement process performed by the registration POS register in this embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the settlement POS register in this embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of one embodiment of the POS system 1 according to the present invention. As shown in Figure 1, in this embodiment, the POS system 1 is composed of a store controller 10, a registration POS register 20 (registration device), three settlement POS registers 30 (settlement devices), and a settlement monitoring device 40. The store controller 10, the registration POS register 20, the three settlement POS registers 30, and the settlement monitoring device 40 are interconnected by a wired or wireless LAN (Local Area Network) 11.

[0010] Note that the configuration of POS system 1 shown in Figure 1 is just one example. For example, multiple registration POS registers 20 can be provided, the number of settlement POS registers 30 can be further increased, or the number of settlement POS registers 30 can be reduced to two. Also, the store controller 10 does not necessarily need to be connected to the registration POS registers 20, settlement POS registers 30, or settlement monitoring device 40 via LAN 11. In that case, data can be exchanged using power line communication or other methods that enable high-speed communication using electrical wiring. Furthermore, it is possible to omit the store controller 10 by having the registration POS registers 20 perform the functions of the store controller 10.

[0011] The store controller 10 is a computer that controls the POS system 1 and manages various information such as the product master. The store controller 10 appropriately transmits the latest product master to the registration POS register 20 and each settlement POS register 30. Here, the product master is a file that stores product information such as product identification information, product name, and sales price for each product, and is updated as needed.

[0012] The settlement monitoring device 40 is primarily used to monitor the settlement status at the settlement POS register 30. For example, the settlement monitoring device 40 notifies the store clerk of any outstanding transactions that have not been settled even after a certain period of time has elapsed since registration was completed at the registration POS register 20, using a predetermined display method. By viewing this display, the store clerk can understand the settlement status of all transactions that have been registered in the store at the moment.

[0013] The registration POS register 20 processes data for the products that a customer intends to purchase. Data registration is performed, for example, by reading the barcode attached to the product. Therefore, the registration POS register 20 is equipped with a scanner that, for example, allows a store employee to read the barcode (product code) attached to the product that the customer intends to purchase. In this application, the data related to products registered by the registration POS register 20 and used in the settlement process will be referred to as transaction information. Transaction information includes the total amount of all products to be purchased, i.e., the total amount, as well as information on the unit price and quantity of individual products. Furthermore, the registration POS register 20 receives and manages status information from each settlement POS register 30.

[0014] Furthermore, the registration POS register 20 selects the settlement POS register 30 that is the destination of the transaction information according to the status information. At that time, based on the status information, the registration POS register 20 determines which settlement POS register 30 the customer currently registering goods should use for settlement so as to minimize the waiting time as much as possible. That is, the registration POS register 20 selects the optimal one from the plurality of settlement POS registers 30. For example, the registration POS register 20 selects an available settlement POS register 30. Alternatively, when all the settlement POS registers 30 are occupied by customers, the registration POS register 20 selects the settlement device that is likely to become available soonest. Then, the registration POS register 20 transmits the transaction information to the selected settlement POS register 30. The customer who intends to purchase the goods indicated by the transaction information can operate the settlement POS register 30 to which the transaction information was transmitted and perform the settlement process by themselves. The settlement process is a process of paying and settling the price of the goods to be purchased by selectively using cash, electronic money, credit cards, etc.

[0015] The above status information is information representing the progress of the settlement process in the settlement POS register 30. The progress is classified into situations such as standby state, in settlement, in receipt issuance, available state, accounting hold, and trouble occurring. Based on this progress, the registration POS register 20 performs a determination process on which settlement POS register 30 to select. For example, the registration POS register 20 preferentially selects an available settlement POS register 30. Also, if there is no available settlement POS register 30, it selects the one in receipt issuance. The three progress situations of standby state, in settlement, and in receipt issuance indicate the stages during the settlement process, and the progress situation shifts from standby state to in settlement and from in settlement to in receipt issuance. Therefore, the progress is further advanced in receipt issuance than in settlement. If there is no available one, by selecting the one in receipt issuance, it is possible to select the settlement POS register 30 that is likely to become available soonest.

[0016] Furthermore, when the registration POS register 20 transmits transaction information currently being registered to the settlement POS register 30 selected as described above, it performs the following display processing. For example, the registration POS register 20 displays the status information received from each settlement POS register 30 on a display screen such as a touch panel on the registration POS register 20. This display may be updated continuously or as needed, not only when transmitting transaction information, but also during registration processing or idle time. In addition, when the registration POS register 20 transmits transaction information, it displays to the store clerk or customer which settlement POS register 30 the transaction information was sent to. For example, if it is displayed to the store clerk, the store clerk can verbally inform the customer. The method of display in this case is arbitrary. For example, the status information of each settlement POS register 30 can be displayed on a touch panel or similar device installed for the store clerk on the registration POS register 20, and the status information corresponding to the settlement POS register 30 to which the information was transmitted can be highlighted. Furthermore, the display unit of the registration POS register 20, which faces the customer, may display instructions indicating the destination settlement POS register 30. Alternatively, a receipt (for example, a numbered receipt with the settlement POS register 30 number printed on it) guiding the customer to the appropriate settlement POS register 30 may be issued and handed to the customer.

[0017] The selection of the POS register 30 for payment may be done manually by the store clerk. For example, the clerk may look at the status information, make a decision, and select the POS register 30 by pressing the button for the selected POS register 30 on the touch panel. In addition, to assist the clerk's decision, the status information display may highlight the POS registers 30 that are available (or likely to become available).

[0018] Also, the registration POS register 20 may print all the purchase details of the products purchased by the customer. In this case, before the customer operates the settlement POS register 30 to perform the settlement process, the customer can confirm the registration details using the registration POS register 20 by checking the print result.

[0019] Also, the registration POS register 20 performs a return process for the product for which the customer has requested a return (hereinafter referred to as the returned product). For example, first, the registration POS register 20 inputs the transaction number printed on the receipt regarding the returned product, and then reads the barcode attached to the returned product. The transaction number is transaction identification information for identifying each transaction. Then, the registration POS register 20 reads the transaction information corresponding to the input transaction number to identify the returned product, calculates the refund amount to be refunded to the customer, and generates refund information. The refund information is data for causing the settlement POS register 30 to disburse cash and includes the refund amount. Subsequently, the registration POS register 20 selects the settlement POS register 30 for refunding to the customer and transmits the generated refund information to the selected settlement POS register 30. Also, the registration POS register 20 determines the timing at which the settlement POS register 30 makes a disbursement based on the refund information according to the operation of the store clerk, and transmits disbursement instruction data to the selected settlement POS register 30 so that the settlement POS register 30 makes a disbursement at the determined timing. The disbursement instruction data is data for instructing to disburse the amount based on the refund information.

[0020] Furthermore, if a customer requests to pay using gift certificates such as rice vouchers or shopping vouchers, the store clerk receives the gift certificate from the customer at the registration POS register 20. The registration POS register 20 determines the amount to be paid at the settlement POS register 30 based on the amount of the gift certificate received from the customer by the store clerk. For example, if the total amount of registered goods (hereinafter referred to as the transaction amount) is greater than the amount of the gift certificate (hereinafter referred to as the gift certificate amount), the registration POS register 20 determines the difference between the transaction amount and the gift certificate amount as the payment amount to be paid by the customer, adds the payment amount to the transaction information, and transmits it to the selected settlement POS register 30. Also, if the transaction amount and the gift certificate amount are equal, the registration POS register 20 issues a receipt for the customer to take home. In this case, the customer does not need to go to the settlement POS register 30 to make a payment. Furthermore, if the value of the gift certificate is greater than the transaction amount, the registration POS register 20 determines the difference between the gift certificate value and the transaction amount as the refund amount to be returned to the customer, and sends the refund information, including the refund amount, to the selected settlement POS register 30. In this case, the registration POS register 20 determines the timing for the settlement POS register 30 to make a withdrawal based on the refund information, in response to the employee's operation, and sends withdrawal instruction data to the selected settlement POS register 30 so that the settlement POS register 30 makes the withdrawal at the determined timing.

[0021] On the other hand, the settlement POS register 30 is a device that customers operate themselves to process payments, and is equipped with payment devices such as an automatic change dispenser, a card reader (for example, for credit cards and point cards), and an RF (Radio Frequency) reader (for example, for electronic money). The settlement POS register 30 also transmits status information to the registration POS register 20 as needed.

[0022] Furthermore, when the settlement POS register 30 receives the above transaction information from the registration POS register 20, it notifies (i.e., guides) the customer so that they know to go to the settlement POS register 30. An example of notification is to display predetermined numbers or other textual information on the entire screen of the display unit of the settlement POS register 30. This number or other textual information is information that the registration POS register 20 (or the store clerk operating the registration POS register 20) has separately informed the customer of. The customer then goes to the settlement POS register 30 that is displaying their number, for example. Another example of notification is to guide the customer by lighting up a predetermined lamp on the settlement POS register 30. For example, it may light up in a specific color, and the customer should go to the settlement POS register 30 of the specified color. It may also blink. Another example of notification is to display the membership card number on the screen of the settlement POS register 30. This membership card number is read, for example, by a registration POS register 20. The customer then goes to a payment POS register 30 that displays their membership card number.

[0023] Furthermore, the settlement POS register 30 enters a standby state after the notification. That is, after the settlement POS register 30 makes a notification, it enters a state where it waits for instructions to start settlement processing corresponding to the received transaction information. An example of releasing the standby state is when a customer touches the display screen of the settlement POS register 30 (or presses some button), and the settlement process starts automatically. Nothing is displayed on the screen until it is touched, or only a number is displayed, as in the notification example above. Alternatively, the settlement POS register 30 may use a human detection sensor to detect whether a customer is approaching and start the settlement process. In this case as well, the screen can remain blank or display only a number until detection occurs. The settlement POS register 30 starts the settlement process when it detects a person approaching using the human detection sensor. Alternatively, a camera can be used instead of a human detection sensor. For example, cameras could be installed on the settlement POS register 30 and the registration POS register 20, and the settlement process could be started only when the same person approaches using facial recognition.

[0024] Furthermore, the settlement process for the POS register 30 in standby mode can be carried out as follows: (1) First, the payment method is selected. The customer selects one of the following, or a combination of the following, according to their operation: cash, credit card, electronic money, etc. (2) Next, the settlement is executed. The settlement is executed by inserting cash into the banknote and coin slots of the POS register 30, paying change, or reading a card with the card reader. (3) Next, a receipt is issued using the printing unit of the POS register 30. The receipt will print, for example, a list of purchased items, the total purchase amount, the amount received, and the amount of change. (4) Finally, the POS register 30 finishes the settlement process and becomes idle.

[0025] Alternatively, the payment method for the settlement POS register 30 may be declared at the registration POS register 20. In this case, the registration POS register 20 sends the payment method information to the settlement POS register 30, and the settlement POS register 30 starts processing from the operation described in (2) above.

[0026] Furthermore, when the settlement POS register 30 receives the above refund information based on a return or settlement using a gift certificate, it notifies (i.e., guides) the customer so that they should come to the settlement POS register 30. After the notification, the settlement POS register 30 enters a standby state. Then, when the settlement POS register 30 is released from the standby state and receives the above withdrawal instruction data, it dispenses cash (banknotes and coins) from the change dispenser according to the refund amount based on the refund information.

[0027] Next, with reference to Figures 2 to 4, an example configuration of the registration POS register 20 and settlement POS register 30 shown in Figure 1 will be described. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the registration POS register 20. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the settlement POS register 30. And Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of the registration POS register 20 and settlement POS register 30.

[0028] As shown in Figure 2, the registration POS register 20 comprises a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 202, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 203, a scanner unit 204, a display unit (for staff) 205, a display unit (for customers) 205a, an operation unit 206, a communication unit 207, a buzzer 208, and a printing unit 209. These components can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0029] ROM202 is read-only memory and stores programs in advance. The CPU 201 is a central processing unit that controls the operation of the registration POS register 20 by reading and executing programs stored in the ROM 202. For example, the CPU 201 (refund information generation means) generates refund information to be refunded to a customer in a predetermined process. The predetermined process includes return processing for goods purchased by a customer, and processing to settle registered goods with gift certificates. The CPU 201 (selection means) selects the settlement POS register 30 that should process the refund based on the refund information. The CPU 201 (withdrawal instruction means) determines the timing of the withdrawal based on the refund information. The CPU 201 (refund information transmission means) transmits the refund information via the communication unit 207 so that the selected settlement POS register 30 can process the refund.

[0030] The scanner unit 204 optically reads the barcode (product code) attached to the product. RAM203 is a read / write memory that stores various types of information. For example, RAM203 stores product information based on barcodes read by the scanner unit 204, status information received from the POS register 30, and so on. RAM203 may also store a history of which operation buttons have been pressed.

[0031] The display unit (for staff) 205 and the display unit (for customers) 205a display various information. For example, the display unit (for staff) 205 and the display unit (for customers) 205a display information obtained from the product master (e.g., product name, price, etc.). The display unit (for staff) 205 is a touch panel (e.g., an LCD touch panel) and displays various information for staff. Furthermore, the display unit (for staff) 205 accepts operation input for pre-set product information (product code, etc.) when operation buttons (preset buttons) displayed in the area of ​​the screen are operated.

[0032] The operation unit 206 is equipped with various operation buttons (subtotal key, current total key, quantity key, correction key, voucher key, and preset key, etc.) for operating the registration POS register 20. For example, when an operation button (preset key) is operated, the operation unit 206 accepts operation input for product information (product code, etc.) that has been pre-registered to that preset key.

[0033] The communication unit 207 communicates with other devices via the LAN 11. Buzzer 208 emits a buzzer sound when it is necessary for a store employee to confirm the operation.

[0034] The printing unit 209 prints information such as transaction information as needed. However, in this embodiment, printing of transaction information can be omitted. As mentioned above, the printing unit 209 may also print information on the receipt (printing medium) that directs the user to the settlement POS register 30 to which the transaction information (accounting data) selected according to the status information will be sent.

[0035] Figure 4 shows the external configuration of the scanner unit 204, the display unit (for staff) 205, the operation unit 206, and the printing unit 209.

[0036] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 3, the settlement POS register 30 includes a CPU 301, a ROM 302, a RAM 303, a scanner unit 304, a display unit 305, an operation unit 306, a communication unit 307, a buzzer 308, a printing unit 309, a settlement unit 310, a sign pole 311, and a human detection sensor 312. These components can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0037] ROM302 is read-only memory that stores the program. The CPU 301 is a central processing unit that controls the operation of the settlement POS register 30 by reading and executing programs stored in the ROM 302. For example, the CPU 301 (receiving means) receives refund information via the communication unit 307. The CPU 301 (dispensing means) also dispenses cash (banknotes or coins) corresponding to the amount to be refunded to the customer, based on the received refund information, into the change dispenser equipped with the settlement unit 310 at a timing determined by the registration POS register 20.

[0038] RAM303 is a read / write memory that stores various types of information. For example, RAM303 stores product master data obtained from the store controller 10, and purchase details of products indicated by 2D codes or barcodes read by the scanner unit 304. An example of when the scanner unit 304 reads a 2D code or barcode is when the registration POS register 20 prints the 2D code or barcode used for accounting on the accounting slip because the status information of the settlement POS register 30 cannot be obtained for some reason (for example, because a problem is occurring).

[0039] The scanner unit 304 optically reads barcodes (member codes) attached to, for example, membership cards. The display unit 305 displays various information on the screen in response to control from the CPU 301. The display unit 305 also stores the operation history of the operation buttons displayed on the screen (e.g., number of operations, order of operations, etc.) in the RAM 303 for each operation button.

[0040] The operation unit 306 is equipped with various operation buttons (correction keys, preset keys, etc.) for operating the settlement POS register 30. For example, the operation unit 306 accepts corrections to operation inputs when an operation button (correction key) is operated.

[0041] The communication unit 307 communicates with other devices via the LAN 11. For example, it connects to the store controller 10 and obtains the latest product master data from the store controller 10.

[0042] Buzzer 308 emits a buzzer sound to notify of errors or other issues if they occur. The printing unit 309 prints and issues a paid receipt for the customer to take home once the settlement process (i.e., settlement of the purchase price of the goods) is completed.

[0043] The settlement unit 310 is configured to include a change dispenser, a credit card reader, an electronic money reader, etc., and their control units, and settlement processing is performed using cash, credit, and electronic money using the settlement unit 310. The settlement unit 310 executes cash settlements using the change dispenser and outputs the result of the settlement (for example, information indicating whether the settlement was completed or not) to the CPU 301 via the bus. The change dispenser is equipped with a banknote slot for inserting and ejecting banknotes, a coin slot for inserting coins, and a change ejection slot for ejecting change. The settlement unit 310 also executes credit settlements and outputs the result of the settlement to the CPU 301 via ports and buses. The settlement unit 310 also executes electronic money settlements and outputs the result of the settlement to the CPU 301 via buses.

[0044] The sign pole 311 has indicator lights of multiple colors, and by lighting or flashing these indicator lights, it communicates information indicating that the POS register 30 for payment is the selected device, or that it is operational. The human presence sensor 312 (motion sensor) is a sensor that detects when a person (customer) is present within a predetermined area in front of the POS register 30 for payment.

[0045] Figure 4 shows the external configuration of the scanner unit 304, display unit 305, operation unit 306, printing unit 309, payment unit 310, and sign pole 311.

[0046] Next, the operation procedure of the registration POS register 20 of the POS system 1 will be described with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the registration POS register 20 in this embodiment. First, the customer takes the items they wish to purchase to the POS register 20 operated by the store clerk. The CPU 201 determines whether the transaction is a registration process to register the items the customer is purchasing (step S1). The store clerk selects whether it is a registration process or a return process using the operation unit 206. If it is a registration process to register the purchased items (YES in step S1), the CPU 201 performs product registration when the product code is entered (step S2). In other words, the CPU 201 writes the contents to the transaction information items stored in the processing area of ​​RAM 203.

[0047] CPU201 determines whether product registration has been completed for all items purchased by the customer (step S3). For example, if the total key is pressed, CPU201 determines that product registration has been completed for all items purchased by the customer. If product registration has not been completed (NO in step S3), CPU201 returns to step S2.

[0048] On the other hand, once product registration is complete for all products (YES in step S3), CPU 201 determines whether or not to use gift certificates or rice vouchers to settle the registered transactions (step S4). When a customer requests payment with gift certificates, the store clerk presses the "gift certificate key". If the "gift certificate key" is pressed, CPU 201 determines that gift certificates will be used for settlement. If gift certificates are to be used for settlement (YES in step S4), the gift certificate settlement process is executed (step S5), and then the process is terminated. Details of the gift certificate settlement process will be described later.

[0049] On the other hand, if no cash voucher is used for settlement (NO in step S4), the CPU 201 selects a settlement POS register 30 to which the transaction information will be sent (step S6). Specifically, the CPU 201 refers to the status information of each settlement POS register 30 stored in a predetermined memory area of ​​the RAM 203 and selects the settlement POS register 30 that has progressed the most in the settlement process (i.e., is free or is most likely to become free soon) based on the status information.

[0050] Next, the CPU 201 adds the confirmed transaction information to the log file in RAM 203, associates the confirmed transaction information with the transaction number, and transmits it via the communication unit 207 to the settlement POS register 30 and the store controller 10 selected in step S6 (step S7). The store controller 10 writes the transaction information to the log file for storage.

[0051] Next, the CPU 201 issues a settlement slip (a numbered receipt with the settlement POS register 30 number printed on it, a settlement ticket, or a POS register information receipt) with instructions indicating the destination settlement POS register 30 (step S8). More specifically, the CPU 201 causes the printing unit 209 to print a receipt with the selected settlement POS register 30 number and transaction number printed on it, as shown in Figure 6. Then, the CPU 201 terminates the process (or may return to step S1).

[0052] Figure 6 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of a settlement slip issued by the registration POS register 20 in this embodiment. In Figure 6, the words "Please pay at register number 1" (see reference numeral 3051) are printed on the receipt as a guide indicating the destination settlement POS register 30. Also, the transaction number "1234567" (see reference numeral 3052) is printed on the receipt.

[0053] On the other hand, if a customer returns an item, the customer brings the item to be returned to the registration POS register 20 operated by the store clerk. The clerk confirms the item requested to be returned by the customer and switches the registration POS register 20 to return processing mode (for example, by selecting return processing from the menu screen). If it is not in registration processing mode, i.e., in return processing mode (NO in step S1), the CPU 201 enters the transaction number written on the receipt (step S11). For example, the clerk collects the receipt brought by the customer and enters the transaction number written on the receipt.

[0054] The CPU 201 displays the same transaction information corresponding to the receipt on the display unit (for staff) 205 and the display unit (for customers) 205a (step S12). Specifically, the CPU 201 transmits the transaction number to the store controller 10 via the communication unit 207, receives the transaction information corresponding to the transaction number transmitted from the store controller 10, and displays it on the display unit (for staff) 205 and the display unit (for customers) 205a.

[0055] Next, the CPU 201 inputs the code information attached to the returned item (step S13). For example, a store employee, with the transaction information displayed on the screen, has the scanner unit 204 read the code information attached to the returned item.

[0056] CPU201 compares the code information attached to the returned product with the transaction information on the receipt (step S14) to check whether the same code information (e.g., JAN code) exists in the transaction information on the receipt, that is, whether the same product is listed on the receipt (step S15). In other words, it confirms that the returned product is indeed the product listed on the receipt.

[0057] If no identical code information exists (NO in step S15), the CPU 201 notifies the error by displaying a warning on the display unit (for staff) 205 and the display unit (for customers) 205a, or by sounding the buzzer 208 (step 16). The CPU 201 displays a prompt on the display unit (for staff) 205 and the display unit (for customers) 205a to either re-enter the information or to determine whether re-entry has been instructed (step S17). If re-entry is instructed by the staff (YES in step S17), the CPU 201 returns to step S11 and proceeds with the process again, starting with entering the transaction number written on the receipt. On the other hand, if re-entry is not instructed by the staff (NO in step S17), the CPU 201 terminates the process (or may return to step S1).

[0058] On the other hand, if the same code information exists in the transaction information of the receipt (YES in step S15), the product is treated as a returned product, and the refund amount is calculated from the price and quantity of the returned product (step S18). Next, it is determined whether or not the "Deposit / Cash Total Key" has been pressed (step S19). If the "Deposit / Cash Total Key" has been pressed (YES in step S19), the CPU 201 selects the settlement POS register 30 for the refund (step S20). Specifically, the CPU 201 refers to the status information of each settlement POS register 30 stored in a predetermined memory area of ​​the RAM 203, and displays a selection screen for the settlement POS register 30 on the display unit (for the store clerk) 205, as shown in Figure 7. The store clerk selects the settlement POS register 30 for the refund while referring to the status information of each settlement POS register 30 displayed on the selection screen.

[0059] Figure 7 is an image diagram showing an example of a selection screen displayed by the registration POS register 20 in this embodiment. In the example display in Figure 7, "selection keys" 7001 to 7003 are displayed for selecting the settlement POS register 30 to which the refund will be issued. Each of the "selection keys" 7001 to 7003 displays the number and status information of the corresponding settlement POS register 30. The store clerk selects the settlement POS register 30 to which the refund will be issued by pressing one of the "selection keys" 7001 to 7003 displayed on the selection screen.

[0060] Next, the CPU 201 issues a return slip printed with the number of the selected POS register 30 and the transaction number (step S21). The clerk hands the issued return slip to the customer and instructs the customer to go to the selected POS register 30. The customer takes the return slip and goes to the instructed POS register 30.

[0061] Next, the CPU 201 displays a withdrawal instruction screen on the display unit (for the store clerk) 205, as shown in Figure 8, and determines whether the "confirmation key" displayed on the withdrawal instruction screen has been pressed (step 22). When the store clerk confirms that the customer has reached the settlement POS register 30, they press the "confirmation key" displayed on the withdrawal instruction screen. If the "confirmation key" is pressed (YES in step S22), the CPU 201 adds the refund information to the log file in RAM 203, associates the refund information with the transaction number, and transmits it to the store controller 10 and the selected settlement POS register 30 via the communication unit 207 (step S23). The refund information includes the refund amount calculated in step S18. At this time, the CPU 201 sends the withdrawal instruction data along with the refund information to the settlement POS register 30. The store controller 10 writes the refund information to the log file for storage. Then, the CPU 201 terminates the process (or may return to step S1).

[0062] Figure 8 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of a withdrawal instruction screen displayed by the registration POS register 20 in this embodiment. In the example shown in Figure 8, a "confirmation key" 8001 for instructing the settlement POS register 30 on the timing of withdrawal, and the transaction number "2631" 8002 for the transaction are displayed.

[0063] Next, with reference to Figure 9, the voucher settlement process in step S5 of Figure 5 described above will be explained. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the voucher settlement process performed by the registration POS register 20 in this embodiment. First, the CPU 201 inputs the value of the gift certificate, which is the amount of the gift certificate given by the customer to the store clerk (step S101). For example, the store clerk inputs the value of the gift certificate by pressing the "gift certificate key" in addition to the number of items to be placed. Next, the CPU 201 compares the input value of the gift certificate with the transaction amount, which is the total amount of the goods registered in that transaction (step S102).

[0064] If the transaction amount is greater than the value of the gift certificate, the CPU 201 subtracts the value of the gift certificate from the transaction amount to determine the payment amount that the customer will pay at the settlement POS register 30 (step S103), and writes the payment amount to the transaction information. Next, the CPU 201 selects the settlement POS register 30 to which the transaction information will be sent (step S104).

[0065] Next, the CPU 201 adds the confirmed transaction information to the log file in RAM 203, associates the confirmed transaction information with the transaction number, and transmits it via the communication unit 207 to the settlement POS register 30 and store controller 10 selected in step S104 (step S105). The store controller 10 writes the transaction information to the log file for storage. Next, the CPU 201 issues a settlement slip (step S106). Then, the CPU 201 terminates the process.

[0066] On the other hand, if the transaction amount and the value of the gift certificate are equal, the CPU 201 adds the confirmed transaction information to the log file in RAM 203, associates the confirmed transaction information with the transaction number, and transmits it to the store controller 10 via the communication unit 207 (step S107). Next, the CPU 201 issues a receipt by ejecting a paper medium printed with the date and time, transaction number, purchased items, quantity, unit price, total amount, and amount received from the printing unit 209 (step S108). The store clerk hands the issued receipt to the customer and informs them that the payment has been completed. In other words, if the transaction amount and the value of the gift certificate are equal, the customer can complete the payment without going to the POS register 30 for payment. Note that even in stores where the policy is not to give change if the value of the gift certificate is greater than the transaction amount, the above steps S107 to S108 are performed not only when the transaction amount and the value of the gift certificate are equal, but also when the value of the gift certificate is greater than the transaction amount.

[0067] On the other hand, if the value of the gift certificate is greater than the transaction amount, the CPU 201 subtracts the transaction amount from the value of the gift certificate and sets the difference as the refund amount to be given to the customer at the settlement POS register 30 (step S109). The CPU 201 writes the determined refund amount to the transaction information.

[0068] Next, the CPU 201 selects the POS register 30 for refunds (step S110). Specifically, the CPU 201 refers to the status information of each POS register 30 stored in a predetermined memory area of ​​the RAM 203 and displays a selection screen for the POS register 30 on the display unit (for the store clerk) 205, as shown in Figure 7. The store clerk selects the POS register 30 for refunds while referring to the status information of each POS register 30 displayed on the selection screen.

[0069] Next, the CPU 201 issues a return slip printed with the number of the selected POS register 30 and the transaction number (step S111). The clerk hands the issued return slip to the customer and instructs the customer to go to the selected POS register 30. The customer takes the return slip and goes to the instructed POS register 30.

[0070] Next, the CPU 201 displays a withdrawal instruction screen on the display unit (for the store clerk) 205, as shown in Figure 8, and determines whether the "confirmation key" displayed on the withdrawal instruction screen has been pressed (step 112). When the store clerk confirms that the customer has reached the settlement POS register 30, they press the "confirmation key" displayed on the withdrawal instruction screen. When the "confirmation key" is pressed (YES in step S112), the CPU 201 adds the confirmed transaction information to the log file in RAM 203, associates the transaction information with the transaction number, and transmits it to the store controller 10 and the selected settlement POS register 30 via the communication unit 207 (step S113). The refund information includes the refund amount calculated in step S109. At this time, the CPU 201 sends the withdrawal instruction data along with the refund information to the settlement POS register 30. The store controller 10 writes the transaction information to the log file for storage. Then, CPU201 terminates the process.

[0071] When a customer registers the items they are purchasing using the registration POS register 20, they receive a payment slip and go to the payment POS register 30 corresponding to the number printed on the payment slip. Similarly, when a customer returns items using the registration POS register 20, they receive a return slip and go to the payment POS register 30 corresponding to the number printed on the return slip. If a return slip is not issued, the payment POS register 30 may call the customer. When called, the customer goes to the payment POS register 30 that called them. Alternatively, the payment POS register 30 may display identification information such as a number to guide the customer, and a store employee may direct the customer to the payment POS register 30.

[0072] Next, the operation procedure of the settlement POS register 30 of the POS system 1 will be described with reference to Figure 10. Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the settlement POS register 30 according to this embodiment. First, the CPU 301 determines whether or not it has received transaction information (step S201). If it has received transaction information (YES in step S201), the CPU 301 notifies that it has received transaction information and transitions to a waiting state for settlement processing (step S202).

[0073] At this point, when a customer arrives at the POS register 30 and performs a predetermined operation on the operation unit 306, etc., or when the human presence sensor 312 detects the approach of a person, the CPU 301 starts the settlement process (step S203). During the settlement process, the display unit 305 shows the operation method, and according to the customer's operation, the customer selects a payment method and the payment is made using the selected payment method. When the settlement process using the predetermined payment method is completed at the POS register 30, the CPU 301 issues a receipt by ejecting a paper medium printed with the date and time, transaction number, purchased items, quantity, unit price, total amount, and amount received from the printing unit 309 (step S204). Then, the CPU 301 ends the process (or may return to step S201).

[0074] On the other hand, if transaction information has not been received (No. in step S201), CPU 301 determines whether or not refund information has been received (step S211). If refund information has not been received (No. in step S211), CPU 301 returns to the process in step S201. On the other hand, if refund information is received (Yes in step S211), the CPU 301 notifies that transaction information has been received and transitions to a waiting state for settlement processing (step S212).

[0075] At this point, when a customer arrives at the POS register 30 for settlement, and a predetermined operation is performed on the operation unit 306, etc., or when the human presence sensor 312 detects the approach of a person, the CPU 301 releases the standby state and determines whether or not it has received withdrawal instruction data (step S213). If it has received withdrawal instruction data (Yes in step S213), the CPU 301 performs the refund process (calculation of the type of currency, etc., according to the refund amount) based on the received refund information and displays the refund amount on the display unit 305 (step S214). Then, the CPU 301 dispenses banknotes or coins according to the refund amount from the change dispenser equipped in the settlement unit 310 (step S215). Next, the CPU 301 adds information indicating the completion of the return process to the return information, stores it as return processing completion information, and sends it to the store controller 10 (step S216). The store controller 10 writes the refund processing completion information to a log file for storage. Then, the CPU 201 issues a receipt by ejecting a paper medium printed with the date and time, transaction number, purchased items, quantity, unit price, total amount, and amount received from the printing unit 309 (step S217). Then, the CPU 301 terminates the process (or may return to step S201).

[0076] Thus, according to this embodiment, when a return or a transaction with change occurs, the store clerk designates the settlement POS register 30 to issue the refund at the registration POS register 20, and the designated settlement POS register 30 dispenses the change. This allows the store clerk to dispense the change without having to go to the location of the settlement POS register 30 and operate it.

[0077] Furthermore, if the settlement POS register 30 dispenses change immediately after the settlement POS register 20 has specified the settlement POS register 30, a security problem arises because a third party could take the dispensed change while the customer is moving from the settlement POS register 20 to the settlement POS register 30. In contrast, according to this embodiment, the settlement POS register 20 displays a confirmation screen when transmitting withdrawal information for a transaction to be withdrawn, prompting the customer to wait until they have moved. The settlement POS register 20 then issues a withdrawal instruction when the store clerk confirms that the customer has moved to the settlement POS register 30 and is standing in front of it, and presses the "confirmation key". The settlement POS register 30 then dispenses the money based on the withdrawal information when a withdrawal instruction is received. As a result, security is improved because the store clerk can visually confirm that the customer has reached the settlement POS register 30 before the money can be withdrawn.

[0078] While embodiments of this invention have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to these embodiments and includes designs and the like that do not depart from the spirit of this invention.

[0079] For example, in the embodiment described above, the registration POS register 20 transmits withdrawal instruction data along with refund information such as the transaction number and refund amount when the "confirmation key" is pressed. However, it is not limited to this, and the refund information may be transmitted when the settlement POS register 30 is selected, and then the withdrawal instruction data may be transmitted separately when the confirmation key is pressed.

[0080] In this case, when the human detection sensor 312 of the settlement POS register 30 reacts, the confirmation key may be displayed in a different manner than usual (flashing, changing color), or the system may notify the customer with sound or vibration from near the registration POS register 20. Specifically, after the settlement POS register 30 receives refund information, if the human detection sensor 312 detects a person, it sends detection information to the registration POS register 20, the source of the withdrawal information. Upon receiving the detection information, the registration POS register 20 notifies the customer using one of the above methods (displaying the confirmation key in a different manner than usual (flashing, changing color), emitting sound from near the registration POS register 20, or vibrating a vibrator). In this case, even if the store clerk is attending to the next customer, the clerk will be notified by a conspicuous display screen, sound, or vibration, so the clerk will know that a customer who needs change is standing in front of the settlement POS register 30. Therefore, the efficiency of registration and settlement can be increased.

[0081] Furthermore, although the above-described embodiment displays a confirmation key (withdrawal instruction key) on the screen, the system is not limited to this, and the withdrawal instruction key may be assigned to one of the keyboards (mechanical keys) provided on the operation unit 206.

[0082] Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, the store clerk selects the settlement POS register 30 to be used for dispensing cash on the selection screen, but the registration POS register 20 may automatically select the settlement POS register 30 based on the status information of each settlement POS register 30.

[0083] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the registration POS register 20 designates the settlement POS register 30, but this is not limited to this. For example, the service counter register, the settlement monitoring device 40 that monitors the settlement status of the settlement device, or the store controller 10 may also designate it. In other words, the "refund information generation means," "selection means," "disbursement instruction means," and "refund information transmission means" may be provided by devices other than the registration POS register 20 (such as the service counter register, the settlement monitoring device 40, or the store controller 10). This allows not only the employee in charge of the registration POS register 20, but also employees in charge of the settlement monitoring device 40 or the store controller 10 to handle return processing, etc.

[0084] Alternatively, the POS register (registration POS register or settlement POS register) and the program for implementing the POS system described above may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program recorded on this recording medium may be loaded into a computer system and executed to perform the execution process. The term "computer system" here may include hardware such as an operating system and peripheral devices.

[0085] Furthermore, "computer system" includes the homepage provisioning environment (or display environment) if a WWW system is being used. Also, "computer-readable recording medium" refers to storage devices such as flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs, flash memory and other writable non-volatile memory, portable media such as CD-ROMs, and hard disks built into computer systems.

[0086] Furthermore, "computer-readable recording media" also includes volatile memory (such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory)) within computer systems that act as servers or clients when programs are transmitted via networks such as the Internet or communication lines such as telephone lines, which retain programs for a certain period of time. Furthermore, the above program may be transmitted from a computer system that stores the program in a memory device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium or by transmission waves within the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" used to transmit the program refers to a medium that has the function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) like the Internet or a communication line (communication line) like a telephone line. Furthermore, the above program may be intended to implement only a portion of the functions described above. It may also be a so-called differential file (differential program) that can implement the aforementioned functions in combination with programs already recorded in the computer system.

[0087] (Note 1) A POS system comprising a registration device for registering products to be purchased by a customer, and a plurality of settlement devices for settling transactions based on the transaction information of the products registered by the registration device, wherein the system further comprises a refund information generation means for generating refund information to be refunded to the customer in a predetermined process, a selection means for selecting a settlement device to perform the refund based on the refund information, and a refund information transmission means for transmitting the refund information so that the selected settlement device can perform the refund, and the settlement device comprises a receiving means for receiving the refund information, and a withdrawal means for disbursing funds according to the amount to be refunded to the customer based on the refund information received by the receiving means.

[0088] (Note 2) The POS system according to Appendix 1, further comprising a withdrawal instruction means for determining the timing of withdrawals based on the aforementioned refund information, wherein the withdrawal means withdraws funds at the timing determined by the withdrawal instruction means, based on the refund information received by the receiving means, in accordance with the amount to be refunded to the customer.

[0089] (Note 3) The POS system according to Appendix 2, characterized in that the settlement device comprises a human presence sensor for detecting a person, and a detection information transmission means for transmitting detection information to the registration device when the human presence sensor detects a person after receiving the refund information, and the registration device comprises a notification means for notifying when it receives the detection information from the settlement device.

[0090] (Note 4) The POS system according to any one of the appendices 1 to 3, characterized in that the registration device comprises an acquisition means for acquiring status information relating to settlement processing from each of the settlement devices, and a display means for displaying the status information when a selection is made by the selection means.

[0091] (Note 5) The POS system according to any one of the appendices 1 to 4, characterized in that the predetermined process is a process relating to the return of goods purchased by the customer.

[0092] (Note 6) The POS system according to any one of the appendices 1 to 4, characterized in that the predetermined process is a process of settling the registered goods in the registration device using a cash voucher. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 10...Store controller, 11...LAN, 20...POS register for registration, 30...POS register for payment, 201...CPU, 202...ROM, 203...RAM, 204...Scanner unit, 205...Display unit (for staff), 205a...Display unit (for customers), 206...Operation unit, 207...Communication unit, 208...Buzzer, 209...Printing unit, 301...CPU, 302...ROM, 303...RAM, 304...Scanner unit, 305...Display unit, 306...Operation unit, 307...Communication unit, 308...Buzzer, 309...Printing unit, 310...Payment unit, 311...Sign pole, 312...Person detection sensor

Claims

1. A system comprising a registration device operated by a store employee to register products, and a payment device operated by the customer to complete the payment, The registration device is A method for accepting input of the amount of the gift certificate, Information generation means that generates refund information showing the difference as the refund amount if the amount of the gift certificate received by the gift certificate receiving means is greater than the total amount of the registered products, and generates additional payment information showing the difference as the additional payment amount if the amount of the gift certificate received by the gift certificate receiving means is less than the total amount of the registered products, A transmission means that transmits the information generated by the information generation means so that it can be processed by the payment device selected based on the operation of the store clerk. Equipped with, The settlement device is, A system characterized by the following: when the aforementioned refund information is received, a predetermined lamp is turned on or flashed to provide notification, and the amount of money corresponding to the refund amount indicated by the refund information is dispensed; when the aforementioned additional payment information is received, a predetermined lamp is turned on or flashed to provide notification, and a screen is displayed allowing the customer to select a payment method for the additional payment amount indicated by the additional payment information.

2. A program that causes a first computer to function as the registration device and a second computer to function as the payment device in a system having a registration device operated by a store clerk to register products and a payment device operated by the customer to settle the payment, The first computer, A method for accepting gift certificates that accepts input of the gift certificate amount. Information generation means that generates refund information showing the difference as the refund amount if the amount of the gift certificate received by the gift certificate receiving means is greater than the total amount of the registered products, and generates additional payment information showing the difference as the additional payment amount if the amount of the gift certificate received by the gift certificate receiving means is less than the total amount of the registered products. A transmission means that transmits the information generated by the information generation means so that it can be processed by the payment device selected based on the operation of the store clerk. To make it function as, The second computer described above, The control means provides notification by illuminating or flashing a predetermined lamp when the aforementioned refund information is received, and dispenses money corresponding to the refund amount indicated by the aforementioned refund information; and provides notification by illuminating or flashing a predetermined lamp when the aforementioned additional payment information is received, and displays a screen allowing the customer to select a payment method for the additional payment amount indicated by the aforementioned additional payment information. A program that makes it function as such.

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