Product sales system, sales processing device, and program thereof

Abstract

To allow a buyer to perform an operation relating to payment of a price to achieve a reduction in labor cost.SOLUTION: A sales processing device processes sales data of a purchased commodity on the basis of information on the purchased commodity input through input means, and transmits the information on the purchased commodity to a payment machine. The sales processing device, when receiving no selection input of price payment method at a time point when receiving an input completion instruction, receives the selection input of the price payment method through a device operated by a buyer as an operator. The sales processing device, when it is impossible to make a settlement at the time point when receiving the input completion instruction, transmits the input completion instruction to the payment machine. The sales processing device, when it is possible to make a settlement at the time point when receiving the input completion instruction, makes a settlement for a transaction of the sales data processed by the first processing means according to the price payment method.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a product sales system, a sales processing apparatus used in this system, and a program therefor.

Background Art

[0002] As a product sales system for large retail stores such as supermarkets and home centers, there is a two-person system. The two-person product sales system includes an input device operated by a store employee called a checker and a sales processing apparatus operated by a store employee called a cashier. The input device is a device for inputting information related to purchased products such as barcodes attached to products. The sales processing apparatus is a device for processing sales data of purchased products based on the information input via the input device and settling transactions with purchasers. The input device and the sales processing apparatus are connected by a transmission cable. A computer mainly composed of a processor is installed in the sales processing apparatus. That is, the input device is positioned as a peripheral device externally attached to the sales processing apparatus.

[0003] In recent years, from the viewpoints of reducing labor costs and preventing infectious diseases, there has been a desire to have purchasers perform operations related to payment of money. Even in a two-person product sales system, by having purchasers perform operations related to payment of money for the sales processing apparatus, the store employee in charge of the cashier becomes unnecessary and labor costs can be reduced. In addition, since the store employee does not touch cash, cash cards, etc., it can also serve as a measure against infectious diseases.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The problem that the embodiments of the present invention aim to solve is to provide a product sales system that reduces labor costs by having the buyer perform the payment operations, and that can also achieve excellent effects in terms of infectious disease control, as well as a sales processing device for this system. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In one embodiment, the product sales system includes an input device, a sales processing device, and a payment machine. The input device comprises an input means, a completion reception means, and a first payment reception means. The input means inputs information relating to the goods to be purchased by the buyer. The completion reception means receives an instruction to complete the input of information relating to the purchased goods. The first payment reception means receives input of the selected payment method. The sales processing device comprises a first processing means, an information transmission means, a second payment acceptance means, an instruction transmission means, and a first settlement means. The first processing means processes sales data of purchased goods based on information about the purchased goods input via the input means. The information transmission means transmits the information about the purchased goods input via the input means to the payment machine. The second payment acceptance means accepts input of the payment method selection via a device operated by the purchaser when the end acceptance means receives an input end instruction and the first payment acceptance means has not yet received input of the payment method selection. The instruction transmission means transmits an input end instruction to the payment machine when the end acceptance means receives an input end instruction and settlement of the transaction is impossible. The first settlement means settles the transaction of the sales data processed by the first processing means according to the payment method received by the first payment acceptance means or the second payment acceptance means, when settlement of the transaction is possible when the end acceptance means receives an input end instruction. The payment machine comprises a third payment receiving means, a second processing means, and a second settlement means. The third payment receiving means accepts the selection input of a payment method via a device operated by the purchaser. The second processing means processes sales data of the purchased goods based on information about the purchased goods received from the sales processing device. The second settlement means settles the transaction of the sales data processed by the second processing means in accordance with the payment method accepted by the first payment receiving means or the third payment receiving means, upon receiving an input completion instruction from the sales processing device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a product sales system according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the device body in the sales processing system. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the main memory areas formed in the main memory of the sales processing device. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the payment machine. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the main functional configurations of the input device, sales processing device, and payment machine. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the first information processing performed by the processor of the sales processing device according to the first business program. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the first information processing performed by the processor of the sales processing device according to the first business program. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the first information processing performed by the processor of the sales processing device according to the first business program. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the first information processing performed by the processor of the sales processing device according to the first business program. [Figure 10]Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the second information processing performed by the processor of the sales processing device according to the first business program. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the third information processing that the processor of the sales processing device executes according to the first business program. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the fourth information processing performed by the payment machine's processor according to the second business program. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the fourth information processing that the payment machine's processor executes according to the second business program. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows an example of a registration screen displayed on the touch panel of an input device. [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows an example of a registration screen displayed on the input device's display. [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows an example of a subplan view displayed on the touch panel of an input device. [Figure 17] Figure 17 shows an example of a subplan view displayed on the input device's screen. [Figure 18] Figure 18 shows an example of a payment method selection screen displayed on the touch panel of an input device. [Figure 19] Figure 19 shows an example of a payment screen displayed on the touch panel of an input device. [Figure 20] Figure 20 shows an example of a pop-up displayed on the payment screen of an input device's touch panel while waiting for payment. [Figure 21] Figure 21 shows an example of text displayed on the subplan screen of the input device's display while waiting for payment. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is an example of a pop-up displayed on the payment screen of the input device's touch panel when payment is possible using the sales processing device. [Figure 23] Figure 23 is an example of the text displayed on the subplanar screen of the input device's display when payment is available in the sales processing device. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is an example of a pop-up when the payment can be made at the payment machine displayed on the touch panel of the input device on the payment screen. [Figure 25] Figure 25 is an example of text when the payment can be made at the payment machine displayed on the display of the input device on the subtotal screen. [Figure 26] Figure 26 is an example of a payment start screen displayed on the first touch panel of the sales processing device. [Figure 27] Figure 27 is an example of a payment method selection screen displayed on the second touch panel of the sales processing device. [Figure 28] Figure 28 is an example of a cash payment notification screen displayed on the first touch panel of the sales processing device. [Figure 29] Figure 29 is an example of a cash payment notification screen displayed on the second touch panel of the sales processing device. [Figure 30] Figure 30 is an example of a cash payment in progress screen displayed on the first touch panel of the sales processing device. [Figure 31] Figure 31 is an example of a cash payment in progress screen displayed on the second touch panel of the sales processing device. [Figure 32] Figure 32 is an example of a cash payment completed screen displayed on the first touch panel of the sales processing device. [Figure 33] Figure 33 is an example of a cash payment completed screen displayed on the second touch panel of the sales processing device. [Figure 34] Figure 34 is an example of a details confirmation screen displayed on the touch panel of the payment machine. [Figure 35] Figure 35 is an example of a payment method selection screen displayed on the touch panel of the payment machine. [Figure 36] Figure 36 is an example of a cash payment notification screen displayed on the touch panel of the payment machine. [Figure 37] Figure 37 is an example of a cash payment in progress screen displayed on the touch panel of the payment machine. <00Figure 38 shows an example of a cash payment completion screen displayed on the touch panel of a payment machine. [Figure 39] Figure 39 is a schematic diagram showing the main functional configuration of the input device, sales processing device, and payment machine in the second embodiment. [Figure 40] Figure 40 shows an example of a payment method selection screen displayed on the touch panel of an input device in a second embodiment. [Figure 41] Figure 41 shows an example of a payment method selection screen displayed on the display of the sales processing device in the second embodiment. [Figure 42] Figure 42 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of a fifth information processing operation performed by the processor of the sales processing device in accordance with the first business program in the second embodiment. [Figure 43] Figure 43 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of a fifth information processing step executed by the processor of the sales processing device in accordance with the first business program in the second embodiment. [Figure 44] Figure 44 is an example of a voucher payment notification screen displayed on the first touch panel of the sales processing device in a second embodiment. [Figure 45] Figure 45 is an example of a voucher payment notification screen displayed on the second touch panel of the sales processing device in the second embodiment. [Figure 46] Figure 46 is an example of a payment screen for a gift certificate displayed on the first touch panel of the sales processing device in a second embodiment. [Figure 47] Figure 47 is an example of a payment screen for a gift certificate displayed on the second touch panel of the sales processing device in a second embodiment. [Figure 48] Figure 48 shows an example of a payment completion screen for a gift certificate displayed on the first touch panel of the sales processing device in a second embodiment. [Figure 49] Figure 49 shows an example of a gift certificate selection screen displayed on the first touch panel of the sales processing device in the third embodiment. [Figure 50]Figure 50 is a schematic diagram showing the main functional configuration of the input device, sales processing device, and payment machine in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 51] Figure 51 shows an example of a payment method selection screen displayed on the touch panel of an input device in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 52] Figure 52 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of a sixth information processing step executed by the processor of the sales processing device in accordance with the first business program in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 53] Figure 53 is an example of a point payment notification screen displayed on the second touch panel of the sales processing device in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 54] Figure 54 is an example of a point payment screen displayed on the second touch panel of the sales processing device in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 55] Figure 55 is an example of a point payment completion screen displayed on the second touch panel of the sales processing device in the fourth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The following describes, with reference to drawings, one embodiment of a product sales system that allows the buyer to perform the payment process.

[0009] [First Embodiment] [Description of the product sales system configuration] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a product sales system 1 according to one embodiment. The product sales system 1 includes an input device 2, a sales processing device 3, and a payment machine 4. The input device 2 and the payment machine 4 are connected to the sales processing device 3, respectively, to constitute the product sales system 1. The input device 2 and the sales processing device 3 are connected one-to-one by a transmission cable 53 (see Figure 2). The sales processing device 3 and the payment machine 4 are connected one-to-n (n is an integer of 1 or more) by a LAN (Local Area Network) 54 (see Figure 2). The input device 2 and the sales processing device 3 may be connected by short-range wireless communication. The sales processing device 3 and the payment machine 4 may be connected by wireless LAN. In this embodiment, the number n of payment machines 4 connected to the sales processing device 3 is set to 1.

[0010] The input device 2 is attached to the checkout counter 51. The checkout counter 51 is positioned along the aisle PA, through which shoppers walk in the direction of the arrows shown in the diagram. The input device 2 is mounted approximately in the center of the top surface of the checkout counter 51, with the area upstream of the input device 2 in the aisle PA designated as space for placing purchased items before registration, and the area downstream designated as space for placing purchased items after registration.

[0011] Input device 2 includes a stationary scanner 21, a handheld scanner 22, a touch panel 23, a keyboard 24, and a display 25 as input / output devices. Input device 2 positions the stationary scanner 21 so as to protrude upward from the top surface of the checkout counter 51, and arranges the handheld scanner 22, touch panel 23, keyboard 24, and display 25 around the stationary scanner 21.

[0012] More specifically, the input device 2 has a fixed scanner 21 fixed to the top surface of the checkout counter 51. The fixed scanner 21 is vertical and fixed so that the barcode reading window is on the side opposite to the aisle PA. The input device 2 has a handheld scanner 22 attached to one side of the fixed scanner 21. A touch panel 23 is attached to the top of the fixed scanner 21 so that its operation panel surface faces the same direction as the reading window of the fixed scanner 21. A keyboard 24 is attached to one side of the touch panel 23 so that its key surface faces the same direction as the operation panel surface of the touch panel 23. Furthermore, a display 25 is attached to one side of the fixed scanner 21 so that its display screen faces the aisle PA. Note that the display 25 may be a touch panel.

[0013] With this arrangement of input / output devices, a store employee standing in space SP on the opposite side of the aisle PA from the checkout counter 51 can operate the stationary scanner 21, handheld scanner 22, touch panel 23, or keyboard 24 to input information about the items purchased by the customer, such as product code, quantity purchased, and discount amount. At this time, the store employee can confirm the product name, unit price, etc. of the purchased items by looking at the information displayed on the touch panel 23. The customer can confirm the product name, unit price, etc. of the purchased items by looking at the information displayed on the display 25.

[0014] The sales processing device 3 is a computer device that functions as a terminal for a POS (Point of Sales) system. The sales processing device 3 includes a keyboard 31 and a first touch panel 32 as devices integrated with the main unit 30, and a handheld scanner 33, a second touch panel 34, a printer 35, an automatic change dispenser 36, a cashless payment terminal 37, etc., as external devices attached to the main unit 30. The sales processing device 3 is mounted on the top surface of the cash register counter 52, which is located on the opposite side of the aisle PA near the downstream end of the checkout counter 51.

[0015] More specifically, the sales processing device 3 is mounted on the cash register counter 52 such that the key surface of the keyboard 31 and the operation panel surface of the first touch panel 32 face the space SP where the store clerk stands. Around the main unit 30 of the device are a handheld scanner 33, a second touch panel 34, a printer 35, an automatic change dispenser 36, and a cashless payment terminal 37. The handheld scanner 33 is positioned so that it can be operated by a store clerk standing in space SP. The second touch panel 34 is positioned so that its display screen can be seen by customers standing in the aisle PA. The printer 35 is positioned so that customers standing in the aisle PA can easily receive their receipts. The automatic change dispenser 36 is positioned so that customers standing in the aisle PA can easily insert cash and take out the dispensed change. The cashless payment terminal 37 is positioned so that customers standing in the aisle PA can easily operate it when making cashless payments such as credit card payments, electronic money payments, and code payments.

[0016] With this arrangement of devices, buyers standing in the aisle PA can immediately check the information displayed on the second touch panel 34, such as information related to payment. Buyers can also immediately receive a receipt issued from the printer 35. Buyers paying with cash can insert cash into the automatic change dispenser 36 and collect the change while standing in the aisle PA. Buyers paying with cashless payment can operate the cashless payment terminal 37 while standing in the aisle PA and pay cashless. In this way, the sales processing device 3 functions as a self-service payment machine that allows buyers to perform payment operations themselves.

[0017] Payment machine 4 is also a self-service payment machine that allows the buyer to perform the payment operation themselves. Payment machine 4 is used by buyers who cannot pay using the sales processing machine 3 because it is in use. Therefore, payment machine 4 is installed downstream of the sales processing machine 3 in the direction of the buyer's movement, as indicated by the arrow in the diagram. Payment machine 4 may also be installed on the opposite side of the aisle PA from the sales processing machine 3.

[0018] The payment machine 4 has a box-shaped casing 40, with one side facing the customer. Hereafter, the side facing the customer will be referred to as the front. The payment machine 4 has a basket stand 41 attached to its right side when viewed from the front. The basket stand 41 is a space for customers who use the payment machine 4 to place their shopping baskets containing their purchased items.

[0019] The payment machine 4 is equipped with a touch panel 42 as a man-machine interface with the buyer. The touch panel 42 is mounted in a position that is easy for the buyer, who is the operator, to operate. In this embodiment, the touch panel 42 is mounted on the top of the housing 40 with the display screen facing forward. The payment machine 4 has a printer 87 (see Figure 4) for printing receipts built into the housing 40, and a receipt issuing slot 43 for issuing receipts printed by the printer 87 is formed on the front of the housing 40. The payment machine 4 also has an automatic change dispenser 88 (see Figure 4) built into it, and a coin slot 44, a coin outlet 45, and a banknote slot 46 are formed on the front of the housing 40. With this arrangement, a buyer paying with cash inserts banknotes into the banknote slot 46 and coins into the coin slot 44. The machine then collects banknotes dispensed from the banknote slot 46 as change or coins dispensed from the coin slot 45 as change, and receives receipts issued from the receipt issuing slot 43. Although not shown in Figure 1, the payment machine 4 is also equipped with a cashless payment terminal 89 (see Figure 4) and is capable of handling cashless payments.

[0020] Payment machine 4 has a warning light 47 mounted on top of its casing 40. The warning light 47 is a lamp that notifies the store staff in space SP of the operating status of payment machine 4. The operating status of payment machine 4, as notified by the warning light 47, is either "in progress" or "on standby." "In progress" is the period from when the buyer starts paying until the payment is completed. Any other period is considered "on standby."

[0021] In large retail stores such as supermarkets and home improvement stores, it is common to install multiple units of this product sales system 1 in parallel at the checkout counter (cash register), which is separate from the sales area where the products are displayed. On the other hand, in smaller retail stores such as specialty shops, it is possible to install only one product sales system 1 within the store.

[0022] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the device body 30 in the sales processing device 3. As shown in the figure, the device body 30 includes a processor 61, main memory 62, auxiliary storage device 63, clock 64, communication interface 65, scanner interface 66, touch panel interface 67, printer interface 68, change dispenser interface 69, payment terminal interface 70, input device interface 71, and system transmission path 72, etc. The system transmission path 72 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission path 72 connects the processor 61 to the other parts and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0023] The main unit 30 constitutes a computer by connecting a processor 61, main memory 62, auxiliary storage device 63, clock 64, communication interface 65, scanner interface 66, touch panel interface 67, printer interface 68, change machine interface 69, payment terminal interface 70, and input device interface 71 via a system transmission path 72. The main unit 30 then connects a keyboard 31 and a first touch panel 32 to this computer via the system transmission path 72.

[0024] The processor 61 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 61 controls each part to realize various functions as a sales processing device 3 according to the operating system or application program. The processor 61 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processor 61 is a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0025] Main memory 62 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 62 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area of ​​main memory 62, the operating system or application programs are stored. Main memory 62 may also store data necessary for the processor 61 to perform processing to control each part in the non-volatile or volatile memory area. Main memory 62 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processor 61. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0026] The auxiliary storage device 63 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 63. The auxiliary storage device 63 stores data used by the processor 61 in performing various processes, data created by the processing performed by the processor 61, etc. The auxiliary storage device 63 may also store the application program described above.

[0027] Clock 64 measures the date and time. Processor 61 processes the date and time measured by clock 64 as the current date and time.

[0028] The communication interface 65 is an interface for data communication with the payment machine 4 connected to the LAN 54. The communication interface 65 is also an interface for data communication with the POS server 55, which is also connected to the LAN 54. The POS server 55 is a computer equipped with a product master that stores product data such as the product name and unit price of each product sold in the store, and collects and aggregates sales data of products processed by the sales processing device 3 to manage sales, inventory, etc. at the point of sale.

[0029] The scanner interface 66, touch panel interface 67, printer interface 68, change dispenser interface 69, and payment terminal interface 70 are all interfaces for data communication with devices externally attached to the main unit 30. Specifically, the scanner interface 66 communicates data with the handheld scanner 33. The touch panel interface 67 communicates data with the second touch panel 34. The printer interface 68 communicates data with the printer 35. The change dispenser interface 69 communicates data with the automatic change dispenser 36. The payment terminal interface 70 communicates data with the cashless payment terminal 37.

[0030] The input device interface 71 is an interface for data communication with the input device 2 connected by the transmission cable 53. Specifically, the input device interface 71 communicates data with the stationary scanner 21, the handheld scanner 22, the touch panel 23, the keyboard 24, and the display 25, respectively.

[0031] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the main memory areas formed in the main memory 62. The sales processing device 3 uses a portion of the volatile memory area in the main memory 62 as the area for the first transaction file 621, the second transaction file 622, the status memory 623, and the flag memory 624. The first transaction file 621 and the second transaction file 622 are areas for storing sales data of purchased goods that are processed as a single transaction. The sales data includes items such as the product code, product name, unit price, purchase quantity, and sales amount of the purchased goods. The sales amount is the amount obtained by multiplying the unit price by the purchase quantity. The status memory 623 is an area for storing the payment status ST. The flag memory 624 is an area for storing the first payment in progress flag Fa and the second payment in progress flag Fb.

[0032] The payment status ST is identification information that represents the status of payment. There are two states regarding payment: a first state in which the payment method is not specified in the input device 2, and a second state in which the payment method is specified in the input device 2. In this embodiment, the payment status ST representing the first state is set to "10", and the payment status ST representing the second state is set to "20".

[0033] The first payment in progress flag Fa is a 1-bit data used by the sales processing device 3 to identify whether or not payment is in progress. In this embodiment, the first payment in progress flag Fa is set to "1" to indicate that payment is in progress, and the first payment in progress flag Fa is set to "0" to indicate that payment is not in progress.

[0034] The second payment flag Fb is a 1-bit data for identifying whether or not payment is in progress at the payment machine 4. In this embodiment, the second payment flag Fb is set to "1" to indicate that payment is in progress, and the second payment flag Fb is set to "0" to indicate that payment is not in progress.

[0035] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the payment machine 4. As shown, the payment machine 4 includes a processor 81, main memory 82, auxiliary storage device 83, clock 84, communication interface 85, and system transmission path 86, etc. The system transmission path 86 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission path 86 connects the processor 81 to the other parts and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0036] The payment machine 4 is configured as a computer by connecting a processor 81, main memory 82, auxiliary storage device 83, clock 84, and communication interface 85 via a system transmission path 86. The payment machine 4 then connects a touch panel 42, a warning light 47, a printer 87, an automatic change dispenser 88, and a cashless payment terminal 89 to this computer via the system transmission path 86.

[0037] The processor 81 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 81 controls each part in order to realize various functions as a payment machine 4 according to the operating system or application program. The processor 81 is, for example, a CPU.

[0038] Main memory 82 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 82 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area, main memory 82 stores the operating system or application programs. Main memory 82 may also store data necessary for the processor 81 to perform processing to control each part in the non-volatile or volatile memory area. Main memory 82 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processor 81. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM.

[0039] The auxiliary storage device 83 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. For example, an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD could be the auxiliary storage device 83. The auxiliary storage device 83 stores data used by the processor 81 in performing various processes, data created by the processing performed by the processor 81, etc. The auxiliary storage device 83 may also store the application program described above.

[0040] Clock 84 measures the date and time. Processor 81 processes the date and time measured by clock 84 as the current date and time.

[0041] The communication interface 85 is an interface for data communication with the sales processing device 3 connected to the LAN 54. The communication interface 85 is also an interface for data communication with the POS server 55, which is also connected to the LAN 54.

[0042] In this configuration, the payment machine 4 uses a portion of the volatile memory area in the main memory 82 as the area for the third transaction file 821. The third transaction file 821, like the first transaction file 621 and the second transaction file 622, is an area for storing sales data of purchased goods to be processed as a single transaction.

[0043] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the main functional configurations of the input device 2, the sales processing device 3, and the payment machine 4. The input device 2 has the functions of an input means 201, an end acceptance means 202, and a first payment acceptance means 203. The sales processing device 3 has the functions of a first communication means 301, a first processing means 302, a second payment acceptance means 303, a first settlement means 304, a storage means 305, a guidance means 306, an invalidation means 307, a second communication means 308, an information transmission means 309, an instruction transmission means 310, and a deletion instruction means 311. The payment machine 4 has the functions of a third payment acceptance means 401, a second processing means 402, a second settlement means 403, and a deletion means 404.

[0044] The input means 201 is a function for inputting information related to the purchased goods that the buyer is purchasing. The input means 201 inputs information related to the purchased goods, such as the product code and purchase quantity, via input devices such as a stationary scanner 21, a handheld scanner 22, a touch panel 23, and a keyboard 24. For example, the input means 201 inputs the product code of the purchased goods from a barcode read by the stationary scanner 21 or the handheld scanner 22. For example, the input means 201 inputs the purchase quantity of the purchased goods from a numerical value entered by a numeric keypad operation on the touch panel 23 or the keyboard 24.

[0045] The termination reception means 202 is a function that receives an instruction to complete the input of information related to purchased products. The termination reception means 202 receives an instruction to complete the input of information related to purchased products via an input device such as a touch panel 23 or a keyboard 24. For example, the termination reception means 202 accepts a predetermined key operation on the touch panel 23 or keyboard 24 as an instruction to complete the input of information related to purchased products.

[0046] The first payment acceptance means 203 is a function that accepts the input of a selection method of payment. Payment methods include cash, credit card, electronic money, and code payment. The first payment acceptance means 203 accepts the input of one of the payment methods via an input device such as a touch panel 23 or a keyboard 24.

[0047] The first communication means 301 is a function that enables the sales processing device 3 to communicate with the input device 2 via the input device interface 71. The first communication means 301 receives information about purchased goods entered by the input means 201 from the input device 2. The first communication means 301 receives an input termination instruction signal received by the termination reception means 202 from the input device 2. The first communication means 301 receives information about the payment method received by the first payment reception means 203 from the input device 2.

[0048] The first processing means 302 is a function that processes sales data of purchased products based on information about purchased products entered via the input means 201. The first processing means 302 obtains product data such as product name and unit price from the product master based on the product code of the purchased product, generates sales data of the purchased product consisting of items such as product code, product name, unit price, purchase quantity, and sales amount, and writes it to the first transaction file 621.

[0049] The second payment acceptance means 303 is a function that accepts input of a payment method selection via a device operated by the buyer when the first payment acceptance means 203 has not accepted input of a payment method selection at the time the termination acceptance means 202 has received an input termination instruction. The device operated by the buyer is, for example, a second touch panel 34. The type of device is not particularly limited. The device operated by the buyer may also be a pointing device that moves a pointer displayed on a screen. The payment methods include cash, credit card, electronic money, code payment, etc. Whether or not input of a payment method selection has been received at the time the input termination instruction has been received can be identified by the payment status ST. When the payment status ST is "10", i.e., the first state in which no payment method was specified in the input device 2, the second payment acceptance means 303 accepts input of one of the payment methods selection via the second touch panel 34.

[0050] The first settlement means 304 is a function that settles a transaction with a buyer according to the payment method accepted by the first payment acceptance means 203 or the second payment acceptance means 303, when the transaction can be settled when the termination acceptance means 202 receives an input termination instruction. The first settlement means 304 determines that the transaction can be settled when the first payment in progress flag Fa stored in the flag memory 624 is "0", that is, when another buyer has not yet paid in the sales processing device 3. If the first settlement means 304 accepts cash as the payment method, for example, it settles the transaction with the buyer in cooperation with the automatic change dispenser 36. If the first settlement means 304 accepts cashless payment as the payment method, for example, it settles the transaction with the buyer in cooperation with the cashless payment terminal 37.

[0051] The storage means 305 has the function of storing first identification information indicating that settlement by the first settlement means 304 is in progress and second identification information indicating that settlement by the second settlement means 403 is in progress. The first payment in progress flag Fa stored in the flag memory 624 functions as first identification information. The second payment in progress flag Fb stored in the flag memory 624 functions as second identification information. In other words, the flag memory 624 is an example of the storage means 305.

[0052] The guidance means 306 is a function that guides the customer to pay at the payment machine 4 when the storage means 305 has stored the first identification information but has not stored the second identification information and the termination reception means 202 has received an input termination instruction. The guidance means 306 guides the customer by displaying an image guiding them to pay at the payment machine 4 on the second touch panel 34. The guidance means 306 may also guide the store clerk by displaying an image guiding them to pay at the payment machine 4 on the first touch panel 32. In this case, the store clerk will verbally guide the customer to pay at the payment machine 4. The guidance means 306 may also guide both the store clerk and the customer by displaying an image guiding them to pay at the payment machine 4 on both the first touch panel 32 and the second touch panel 34.

[0053] The invalidation means 307 is a function that disables the acceptance of input termination instructions by the termination acceptance means 202 while the storage means 305 is storing the first identification information and the second identification information. In other words, when the first payment in progress flag Fa and the second payment in progress flag Fb stored in the flag memory 624 are both "1", the invalidation means 307 disables and does not accept input termination instructions for information related to purchased goods.

[0054] The second communication means 308 is a function that enables the sales processing device 3 to communicate with the payment machine 4 via the communication interface 65. The second communication means 308 communicates with the payment machine 4 in conjunction with the information transmission means 309, instruction transmission means 310, and deletion instruction means 311, which will be described later.

[0055] The information transmission means 309 has the function of transmitting information about purchased items entered via the input means 201 to the payment machine 4. The information transmission means 309 transmits information about purchased items, such as product codes and purchase quantities, entered via input devices such as the fixed scanner 21, handheld scanner 22, touch panel 23, and keyboard 24, to the payment machine 4 via the communication interface 65. The information transmission means 309 transmits information about purchased items to the payment machine 4 each time information about purchased items is entered.

[0056] The instruction transmission means 310 has the function of transmitting an input termination instruction to the payment machine 4 when the transaction cannot be settled at the time the termination reception means 202 receives the input termination instruction. The instruction transmission means 310 determines that the transaction cannot be settled when the first payment in progress flag Fa stored in the flag memory 624 is "1", that is, when another buyer is paying the price in the sales processing device 3. The instruction transmission means 310 transmits the input termination instruction received by the termination reception means 202 to the payment machine 4.

[0057] The deletion instruction means 311 is a function that instructs the payment machine 4 to delete the sales data when the transaction can be settled at the time the termination reception means 202 receives the input termination instruction. The sales processing device 3, functioning as an information transmission means 309, transmits information relating to the purchased product to the payment machine 4 each time it is input. The payment machine 4, functioning as a second processing means 402, processes the sales data of the purchased product based on the information relating to the purchased product. However, this sales data becomes unnecessary when the transaction can be settled in the sales processing device 3. Therefore, when the first payment in progress flag Fa stored in the flag memory 624 is "0" at the time the termination reception means 202 receives the input termination instruction, the deletion instruction means 311 outputs a signal to the payment machine 4 via the communication interface 65 instructing it to delete the sales data.

[0058] The third payment acceptance means 401 is a function that accepts the selection input of a payment method via a device operated by the purchaser. The device operated by the purchaser is, for example, a touch panel 42. The type of device is not particularly limited. The device operated by the purchaser may also be a pointing device that moves a pointer displayed on a screen. The payment methods include cash, credit card, electronic money, code payment, etc. The third payment acceptance means 401 accepts the selection input of one of the payment methods via an input device such as a touch panel 42.

[0059] The second processing means 402 is a function that processes sales data of purchased products based on information about the purchased products received from the sales processing device 3. The second processing means 402 obtains product data such as product name and unit price from the product master based on the product code of the purchased product received from the sales processing device 3 via the communication interface 85, generates sales data of the purchased product consisting of items such as product code, product name, unit price, purchase quantity, and sales amount, and writes it to the third transaction file 821.

[0060] The second settlement means 403 has the function of settling the transaction of the sales data processed by the second processing means 402 in accordance with the payment method accepted by the first payment acceptance means 203 or the third payment acceptance means 401, in response to receiving an input completion instruction from the sales processing device 3. The input completion instruction is transmitted from the sales processing device 3 to the payment machine 4 by the instruction transmission means 310 when the sales processing device 3 is unable to settle the transaction. Upon receiving the input completion instruction, the second settlement means 403 settles the transaction of the sales data processed by the second processing means 402 in accordance with the payment method accepted by the first payment acceptance means 203 or the third payment acceptance means 401. If the second settlement means 403 accepts cash as the payment method, for example, it will work in cooperation with the automatic change dispenser 88 to settle the transaction with the buyer. If the second settlement means 403 accepts cashless payment as the payment method, for example, it will work in cooperation with the cashless payment terminal 89 to settle the transaction with the buyer.

[0061] The deletion means 404 is a function that deletes sales data processed by the second processing means 402 in response to a deletion instruction received from the sales processing device 3. When the deletion means 404 receives a signal from the sales processing device 3 via the communication interface 85 instructing the deletion of sales data, it deletes the data stored in the third transaction file 821.

[0062] The functions of the input device 2 as input means 201, termination acceptance means 202, and first payment acceptance means 203, and the functions of the sales processing device 3 as first communication means 301, first processing means 302, second payment acceptance means 303, first settlement means 304, storage means 305, guidance means 306, invalidation means 307, second communication means 308, information transmission means 309, instruction transmission means 310, and deletion instruction means 311 are all realized by information processing executed by the processor 61 in accordance with the first business program.

[0063] The first business program is a type of application program stored in the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63. The method of installing the first business program in the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63 is not particularly limited. The first business program can be installed in the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63 by recording it on a removable recording medium or by distributing the first business program via communication over a network. The recording medium can take any form as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device, such as a CD-ROM or memory card.

[0064] On the other hand, the functions of the payment machine 4 as a third payment receiving means 401, a second processing means 402, a second settlement means 403, and a deletion means 404 are realized by information processing performed by the processor 81 in accordance with the second business program.

[0065] The second business program is a type of application program stored in the main memory 82 or the auxiliary storage device 83. The method of installing the second business program in the main memory 82 or auxiliary storage device 83 is not particularly limited. The second business program can be installed in the main memory 82 or auxiliary storage device 83 by recording it on a removable recording medium or by distributing it via network communication. 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.

[0066] [Explanation of the product sales system's operation] Next, the main operations of the product sales system 1 will be explained using the flowcharts in Figures 6 to 13 and the example screens in Figures 14 to 38. Note that the information processing content and procedures explained using the flowcharts are examples only. The content and procedures can be modified as appropriate if similar effects can be achieved. Similarly, the example screens are also examples only. The content of the output text, the placement of images, the types and layouts of software keys, etc., can be modified as appropriate.

[0067] Figures 6 to 9 are flowcharts showing the essential steps of the first information processing performed by the processor 61 of the sales processing device 3 according to the first business program. A customer who has collected the items they wish to purchase from around the sales floor moves to the checkout area. The customer then places the purchased items on the checkout counter 51 in an empty aisle PA. A store clerk standing in space SP commands the customer to start registration when they arrive at the checkout area. For example, the clerk touches the start button displayed on the touch panel 23. This operation serves as the command to start registration. Upon receiving this command, the processor 61 starts the first information processing. The processor 61 uses the touch panel 23 and the display 25 screens of the input device 2 as the registration screen, as ACT 101.

[0068] Figure 14 shows an example of the registration screen SAa displayed on the touch panel 23. The registration screen SAa is divided into the current area AAa, the details area AAb, and the total area AAc. The current area AAa is the area for displaying the product name, purchase quantity, and sales amount of the most recently purchased product. The details area AAb is the area for displaying the product name, purchase quantity, unit price, discount amount, and sales amount of the purchased products in a transaction in a list format, in sequential order. The total area AAc is the area for displaying the total purchase quantity and total sales amount of the purchased products in a transaction. The registration screen SAa includes a subtotal button BAa. The subtotal button BAa is a software key. The subtotal button BAa is an operator for commanding the output of the subtotal of the purchased products registered as a transaction.

[0069] Figure 15 shows an example of the registration screen SBa displayed on the display 25. The registration screen SBa divides the screen into multiple rows (seven rows in the example in Figure 15), with the rows from the first row to the second to last row being the detail area ABa rows, and the last row being the total area ABb row. In the detail area ABa rows, the product name, unit price, purchase quantity, and sales amount of the purchased items are displayed one row at a time. In the total area ABb, the total purchase quantity and the total sales amount are displayed on a single row.

[0070] After confirming the registration screen SAa, the store clerk registers the purchased items placed at the checkout counter 51. Specifically, the clerk scans the barcode attached to the purchased item using the stationary scanner 21 or handheld scanner 22 of the input device 2. By scanning the barcode, the product code of the purchased item is entered into the sales processing device 3 via the input device interface 71. If the purchased item does not have a barcode, the clerk displays a list of barcode-less items on the touch panel 23 of the input device 2. The clerk then selects the purchased item from that list. Through this operation, the product code of the barcode-less purchased item is entered into the sales processing device 3 via the input device interface 71.

[0071] Processor 61, with the touch panel 23 and display 25 screens set to registration screen SAa and registration screen SBa, proceeds to ACT102. Processor 61 waits for the registration of purchased items as ACT102. When an item code is entered from input device 2 via input device interface 71, processor 61 determines that an item has been registered. Processor 61 proceeds from ACT102 to ACT103. Processor 61 sends an input event to payment machine 4 via communication interface 65 as ACT103. The input event includes an item code entered from the stationary scanner 21, handheld scanner 22, or touch panel 23.

[0072] The processor 61 that sent the input event proceeds to ACT104. The processor 61 executes product sales data processing as ACT104. This process reads the product name, unit price, etc. of the product identified by the entered product code from the product master, generates sales data for the purchased product including the product code, product name, unit price, purchase quantity, sales amount, etc., and writes it to the first transaction file 621.

[0073] After processing the product sales data, processor 61 proceeds to ACT105. Processor 61 updates registration screen SAa and registration screen SBa as ACT105. Regarding the registration screen SAa, the processor 61 displays the product name, purchase quantity, and sales amount of the sales data written to the first transaction file 621 in the current area AAa. At this time, if the sales data of the previously registered purchase product is displayed in the current area AAa, the processor 61 displays the product name, purchase quantity, unit price, discount amount, and sales amount of that sales data in the details area AAb. The processor 61 also displays the total purchase quantity and sales amount of all sales data stored in the first transaction file 621 in the total area AAc.

[0074] Regarding the registration screen SBa, the processor 61 displays the product name, unit price, purchase quantity, and sales amount of the sales data written to the first transaction file 621 on the first line of the detail area ABa. If sales data is already displayed on the first line of the detail area ABa, the processor 61 shifts the data from the first line onward to the second line onward, and then displays the sales data written to the first transaction file 621 on the first line. The processor 61 also displays the total purchase quantity and sales amount of all sales data stored in the first transaction file 621 in the total area ABb.

[0075] After updating registration screens SAa and SBa, processor 61 proceeds to ACT106. Processor 61 checks whether the next purchase item has been registered as ACT106. If the next purchase item has not been registered, processor 61 checks whether the subtotal button BAa has been entered as ACT107. If the subtotal button BAa has not been entered, processor 61 returns to ACT106. In this way, processor 61 waits for the next purchase item to be registered or for the subtotal button BAa to be entered as ACT106 and ACT107.

[0076] When a purchased item is registered while in the waiting state of ACT106 and ACT107, the processor 61 returns to ACT103. The processor 61 then executes the processing of ACT103 to ACT105 in the same manner as described above. Thus, each time the store clerk operates the stationary scanner 21, handheld scanner 22, or touch panel 23 of the input device 2 to register a purchased item placed on the checkout counter 51, the processor 61 sends an input event containing information about that purchased item, i.e., the product code, to the payment machine 4. The processor 61 also generates sales data for the purchased item based on the product code and writes it to the first transaction file 621. After completing the registration of the purchased items, the store clerk touches the subtotal button BAa.

[0077] When the subtotal button BAa is pressed via touch operation while ACT106 and ACT107 are in standby mode, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT108. As ACT108, the processor 61 uses the touch panel 23 and the display 25 screen of the input device 2 as the subtotal screen.

[0078] Figure 16 shows an example of the subtotal plan area SAb displayed on the touch panel 23. The subtotal plan area SAb includes a total area AAd that displays the total purchase quantity and total sales amount of the purchased goods in a single transaction. The subtotal plan area SAb also includes a subtotal discount button BAb, a subtotal discount button BAc, a payment method selection button Bad, a payment button BAe, and a back button BAf. Each of the buttons BAb, Bac, Bae, and BAf is a software key. The subtotal discount button BAb is an operator used to command a discount on the total amount. The subtotal discount button BAc is an operator used to command a discount on the total amount. Incidentally, by pressing the subtotal discount button BAb and entering the discount amount using the numeric keypad on the keyboard 24, the total amount will be discounted. Similarly, by pressing the subtotal discount button BAc and entering the discount rate using the numeric keypad on the keyboard 24, the total amount will be discounted.

[0079] The payment method selection button BAd is an operator used to instruct the user to select a payment method. The payment button BAe is an operator used to instruct the user to complete the registration of purchased items and proceed to payment. The back button BAf is an operator used to instruct the user to return to the registration of purchased items.

[0080] Figure 17 shows an example of a subplanning screen SBb displayed on display 25. The subplanning screen SBb includes area ABc, which displays information regarding payment. Area ABc displays the total quantity and total amount of purchased goods, the amount received, and the remaining balance. At this point, no amount has been received, so the amount received is 0 yen, and the remaining balance is the total amount minus the amount received.

[0081] After reviewing the sub-planning page SAb, the clerk checks whether there are any unregistered purchased items remaining at checkout counter 51. If there are unregistered purchased items, the clerk touches the back button BAf. If there are no unregistered purchased items, the clerk decides whether or not to ask the customer about their payment method. For example, during busy hours, the clerk will ask the customer about their payment method, and during off-peak hours, they will not. If the clerk decides to ask the customer about their payment method, they touch the payment method selection button BAd. If the clerk decides not to ask the customer about their payment method, they touch the payment button BAe.

[0082] The processor 61, with the touch panel 23 screen designated as subplanning plane SAb and the display 25 screen as subplanning plane SBb, proceeds to ACT109. The processor 61 checks whether the back button BAf has been pressed as ACT109. If the back button BAf has not been pressed, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT110. The processor 61 checks whether the payment method selection button Bad has been pressed as ACT110. If the payment method selection button Bad has not been pressed, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT111. The processor 61 checks whether the payment button BAe has been pressed as ACT111. If the payment button BAe has not been pressed, the processor 61 returns to ACT109. In this way, the processor 61, displaying subplanning plane SAb, waits in ACT109 through ACT111 for the back button BAf, the payment method selection button Bad, or the payment button BAe to be pressed.

[0083] In the standby state of ACT109 to ACT111, when the back button BAf is pressed via touch operation, the processor 61 proceeds from ACT109 to ACT112. As ACT112, the processor 61 returns the screens of the touch panel 23 and display 25 to the previous registration screen SAa and registration screen SBa. Then the processor 61 enters the standby state for ACT106 and ACT107. Thus, the store clerk can register previously unregistered purchased items by operating the stationary scanner 21, handheld scanner 22, or touch panel 23 of the input device 2.

[0084] In the standby state of ACT109 to ACT111, when the payment method selection button BAd is pressed via touch operation, the processor 61 proceeds from ACT101 to ACT121 in Figure 7. As ACT121, the processor 61 sets the screen of the touch panel 23 to the payment method selection screen SAc (see Figure 18). The screen of the display 25 remains the subplan screen SBb.

[0085] Figure 18 shows an example of a payment method selection screen SAc displayed on a touch panel. The payment method selection screen SAc includes a total area AAd, similar to the subplan area SAb. The payment method selection screen SAc also includes a group of selection buttons BAg for each payment method. The group of selection buttons BAg includes a cash button, a credit button, an electronic money button, and a code payment button.

[0086] The cash button is used to initiate a cash payment. The credit button is used to initiate a credit card payment. The electronic money button is used to initiate an electronic money payment. The code payment button is used to initiate a code payment. The cash button, credit button, electronic money button, and code payment button are all software keys.

[0087] After the store clerk confirms the payment method selection screen SAc with the customer, they touch the button corresponding to the customer's chosen payment method. For example, if the customer wishes to pay with cash, the clerk touches the cash button in the selection button group BAg. If the customer wishes to pay with a credit card, the clerk touches the credit button in the selection button group BAg. Similarly, if the customer wishes to pay with electronic money or code payment, the clerk touches the corresponding button in the selection button group BAg.

[0088] When the touch panel 23 screen is set to the payment method selection screen SAc, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT122. The processor 61 waits for a payment method to be selected as ACT122. When any payment method is selected by a touch operation on the selection button group Bag, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT123. The processor 61 obtains the payment code for the selected payment method as ACT123. In this embodiment, a unique payment code is set in advance for each payment method, such as cash payment, credit card payment, electronic money payment, and code payment. For example, when the cash button is touched, the processor 61 obtains the payment code corresponding to cash payment, for example, "111". For example, when the credit button is touched, the processor 61 obtains the payment code corresponding to credit card payment, for example, "222". The same applies when the other electronic money button and code payment button are touched.

[0089] The processor 61, having obtained the payment code, proceeds to ACT124. The processor 61 sends a selection event to the payment machine 4 via the communication interface 65 as ACT124. The selection event includes the payment code for the payment method selected on the payment method selection screen SAc.

[0090] The processor 61 that sent the selection event proceeds to ACT125. As ACT125, the processor 61 sets the screen of the touch panel 23 to the payment screen SAd (see Figure 19). The screen of the display 25 remains the subplaning screen SBb.

[0091] Figure 19 shows an example of the payment screen SAd when cash payment is selected as the payment method. The payment screen SAd includes a total area AAd, similar to the subplan area SAb and the payment method selection screen SAc. The payment screen SAd also includes a payment button BAh. The payment button BAh is a software key. After viewing the payment screen SAd, the store clerk touches the payment button BAh.

[0092] When the touch panel 23 screen is set to the payment screen SAd, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT126. The processor 61 waits for the payment button BAh to be input as ACT126. When the payment button BAh is input via touch operation, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT127.

[0093] On the other hand, in the standby state of ACT109 to ACT111 in Figure 6, when the payment button BAe is input by touch operation, the processor 61 proceeds from ACT111 to ACT127 in Figure 7. Similarly, when the payment button BAe on the subplanning screen SAb or the payment button BAh on the payment screen SAd is input, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT127.

[0094] Processor 61 checks the first payment in progress flag Fa as ACT127. If payment has not been made in the sales processing device 3, the first payment in progress flag Fa is "0". When the first payment in progress flag Fa is "0", processor 61 proceeds from ACT127 to ACT131 in Figure 8. The processing from ACT131 onwards will be described later.

[0095] In ACT127, if the first payment in progress flag Fa is "1", meaning that payment has been made in the sales processing device 3, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT128. In ACT128, the processor 61 checks the second payment in progress flag Fb. If payment has not been made in the payment machine 4, the second payment in progress flag Fb is "0". When the second payment in progress flag Fb is "0", the processor 61 proceeds from ACT128 to ACT141 in Figure 9. The processing from ACT141 onwards will be described later.

[0096] In ACT128, if the second payment flag Fb is "1", meaning that payment is being made at the payment machine 4, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT129. As ACT129, the processor 61 displays a pop-up PUa (see Figure 20) on the subplanning surface SAb or payment screen SAd of the touch panel 23 to inform the user that payment is not possible. The processor 61 also displays text TXa (see Figure 21) on the subplanning surface SBb of the display 25 to instruct the user to wait because payment is not possible.

[0097] Figure 20 shows an example of a pop-up PUa displayed on the payment screen SAd of the touch panel 23. Upon seeing the pop-up PUa, the store clerk will wait until the previous customer has finished paying.

[0098] Figure 21 shows an example of text TXa displayed on the subplan plane SBb of display 25. After viewing text TXa, the buyer will wait until they are able to make payment.

[0099] If the processor 61 notifies that payment is not possible using the touch panel 23 and display 25, it returns to ACT 126. The processor 61 waits for the payment button BAe or payment button BAh to be pressed. When the payment button BAe or payment button BAh is pressed, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT 127. The processor 61 then executes the processing from ACT 127 onward in the same manner as described above. Therefore, if the first payment in progress flag Fa has been changed to "0", the processor 61 proceeds to ACT 131 in Figure 8. If the first payment in progress flag Fa remains "1" but the second payment in progress flag Fb has been changed to "0", the processor 61 proceeds to ACT 141 in Figure 9.

[0100] In contrast, if the first payment in progress flag Fa and the second payment in progress flag Fb remain at "1", the processor 61 proceeds to ACT 129. Therefore, the pop-up PUa continues to be displayed on the subplanning surface SAb or payment screen SAd of the touch panel 23, and the text TXa continues to be displayed on the subplanning surface SBb of the display 25.

[0101] When the first payment in progress flag Fa is "0", and the payment button BAe on subplanning screen SAb or the payment button BAh on payment screen SAd is pressed, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT131 in Figure 8. The processor 61 sends a delete event to the payment machine 4 via the communication interface 65 as ACT131.

[0102] The processor 61 that sent the delete event proceeds to ACT132. As ACT132, the processor 61 displays a pop-up PUb (see Figure 22) on the subplanning surface SAb or payment screen SAd of the touch panel 23, informing the user that payment is possible. The processor 61 also displays text TXb (see Figure 23) on the subplanning surface SBb of the display 25, indicating that payment is possible.

[0103] Figure 22 shows an example of a pop-up PUb displayed on the payment screen SAd of the touch panel 23. Upon seeing the pop-up PUb, the store clerk will know that payment can be made using the sales processing device 3, and will then guide the customer to the area where the sales processing device 3 is located.

[0104] Figure 23 shows an example of text TXb displayed on the subplan surface SBb of the display 25. After viewing the text TXb, the buyer will follow the store clerk's instructions to the area where the sales processing device 3 is installed and make the payment.

[0105] Having notified the user that payment is possible using the touch panel 23 and display 25, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT 133. As ACT 133, the processor 61 copies the data stored in the first transaction file 621, that is, the sales data of the purchased goods registered as a single transaction, to the second transaction file 622. Next, as ACT 134, the processor 61 checks whether or not a payment code has been obtained.

[0106] If the payment code has not been obtained, processor 61 proceeds from ACT134 to ACT135. Processor 61 sets the payment status ST stored in status memory 623 as "10" for ACT135. On the other hand, if the payment code has been obtained in the processing of ACT123, processor 61 proceeds from ACT134 to ACT136. Processor 61 adds that payment code to the second transaction file 622 as ACT136. Processor 61 also sets the payment status ST stored in status memory 623 as "20" for ACT137.

[0107] After completing the processing of ACT135 or ACT137, processor 61 proceeds to ACT138. As ACT138, processor 61 rewrites the first payment in progress flag Fa in flag memory 624 to "1". Also, as ACT139, processor 61 clears the first transaction file 621. With this, processor 61 completes the first information processing related to the transaction with the buyer when the first payment in progress flag Fa is "0", that is, when the sales processing device 3 is idle.

[0108] On the other hand, when the first payment in progress flag Fa is "1" but the second payment in progress flag Fb is "0", if the payment button BAe on subplanning screen SAb or the payment button BAh on payment screen SAd is pressed, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT141 in Figure 9. The processor 61 sends a payment event to the payment machine 4 via the communication interface 65 as ACT141.

[0109] The processor 61 that sent the payment event proceeds to ACT142. As ACT142, the processor 61 displays a pop-up PUc (see Figure 24) on the subplanning surface SAb or payment screen SAd of the touch panel 23, informing the buyer that the payment machine 4 is available and guiding them to the payment machine 4. The processor 61 also displays text TXc (see Figure 25) on the subplanning surface SBb of the display 25, instructing the buyer to make the payment at the payment machine 4.

[0110] Figure 24 shows an example of a pop-up PUc displayed on the payment screen SAd of the touch panel 23. Upon seeing the pop-up PUc, the store clerk will verbally guide the customer to the payment machine 4 where the warning light 47 is illuminated.

[0111] Figure 25 shows an example of text TXc displayed on the subplanar surface SBb of the display 25. After seeing the text TXc, the buyer will follow the store clerk's instructions and move to the payment machine 4, where the warning light 47 is illuminated, to make the payment.

[0112] After guiding the buyer to the payment machine 4 using the touch panel 23 and display 25, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT 143. As ACT 143, the processor 61 rewrites the second payment in progress flag Fb to "1". Also, as ACT 144, the processor 61 deletes the data stored in the first transaction file 621. With this, the processor 61 completes the first information processing related to the transaction with the buyer when the first payment in progress flag Fa is "0" and the second payment in progress flag Fb is "1", that is, when the sales processing device 3 is occupied but the payment machine 4 is available.

[0113] Thus, the first transaction file 621 is cleared by the processing of ACT139 or ACT144 before the first information processing is completed. Therefore, the processor 61 of the sales processing device 3 can continue to start the first information processing. That is, when the next buyer comes to the checkout counter and the clerk commands the start of registration, the processor 61 executes the first information processing from ACT101 onwards in the same manner as described above.

[0114] Here, processor 61 realizes the function of input means 201 through processing ACT 102. Processor 61 realizes the function of termination acceptance means 202 through processing ACT 111 and ACT 126. Processor 61 realizes the function of first payment acceptance means 203 through processing ACT 121 to ACT 123.

[0115] Furthermore, the processor 61 realizes the function of the first processing means 302 through the processing of ACT 104. The processor 61 realizes the function of the invalidation means 307 through the processing of ACT 129. The processor 61 realizes the function of the guidance means 306 through the processing of ACT 142.

[0116] Furthermore, processor 61 realizes the function of information transmission means 309 through processing of ACT 103. Processor 61 realizes the function of instruction transmission means 310 through processing of ACT 141. Processor 61 realizes the function of deletion instruction means 311 through processing of ACT 131.

[0117] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the second information processing performed by the processor 61 of the sales processing device 3 according to the first business program. The processor 61 performs the second information processing in parallel with the first information processing described above.

[0118] Processor 61 waits for the first payment in progress flag Fa to be set to "1" as ACT151. In ACT138 of the first information processing, when the first payment in progress flag Fa is set to "1", processor 61 proceeds to ACT152. Processor 61 sets the screen of the first touch panel 32 to the payment start screen SCa (see Figure 26) as ACT152.

[0119] Figure 26 shows an example of the payment initiation screen SCa displayed on the first touch panel 32. The payment initiation screen SCa includes a total area ACa that displays the total purchase quantity and total sales amount of the purchased goods in a single transaction. The total area ACa displays the total purchase quantity and total sales amount calculated based on the sales data of the purchased goods stored in the second transaction file 622.

[0120] After displaying the payment start screen SCa, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT153. As ACT153, the processor 61 checks the payment status ST. If the payment status ST is "10", meaning that no payment method was selected in the first information processing, the processor 61 proceeds from ACT153 to ACT154. As ACT154, the processor 61 sets the screen of the second touch panel 34 to the payment method selection screen SDa (see Figure 27).

[0121] Figure 27 shows an example of the payment method selection screen SDa displayed on the second touch panel 34. The payment method selection screen SDa includes a group of selection buttons BDa for each payment method. The selection button group BDa includes a cash button, a credit button, an electronic money button, and a code payment button. The payment method selection screen SDa also includes a total area ADa that displays the total purchase quantity and total sales amount of the purchased goods in a single transaction. The total area ADa displays the total purchase quantity and total sales amount calculated based on the sales data of the purchased goods stored in the second transaction file 622.

[0122] After viewing the payment method selection screen SDa, the buyer touches the button for their desired payment method. For example, a buyer who wishes to pay with cash touches the cash button in the selection button group BDa. For example, a buyer who wishes to pay with a credit card touches the credit button in the selection button group BDa. For example, a buyer who wishes to pay with electronic money touches the electronic money button in the selection button group BDa. For example, a buyer who wishes to pay with QR code payment touches the QR code payment button in the selection button group BDa.

[0123] When the processor 61 sets the screen of the second touch panel 34 to the payment method selection screen SDa, it proceeds to ACT155. As ACT155, the processor 61 waits for a payment method to be selected. When one of the payment methods is selected by a touch operation on the selection button group BDa, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT156. As ACT156, the processor 61 obtains the payment code for the selected payment method, similar to the processing of ACT123 in the first information processing.

[0124] On the other hand, if the payment status ST in ACT153 is "20," meaning that a payment method was selected in the first information processing, the processor 61 proceeds from ACT153 to ACT157. The processor 61 extracts the payment code from the second transaction file 622 as ACT157.

[0125] After completing the processing of ACT156 or ACT157, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT158. As ACT158, the processor 61 sets the screens of the first touch panel 32 and the second touch panel 34 as payment notification screens. The payment notification screens are screens based on the payment code obtained through the processing of ACT156 or ACT157.

[0126] Figure 28 shows an example of a payment notification screen displayed on the first touch panel 32. Figure 28 shows the cash payment notification screen SCb when a payment code for cash payment is obtained through the processing of ACT156 or ACT157. The cash payment notification screen SCb includes a total area ACa, similar to the payment start screen SCa. The cash payment notification screen SCb also includes a change dispenser information area ACb. The change dispenser information area ACb displays the total amount, the total amount of cash inserted into the automatic change dispenser 36 (so-called inserted amount), and the remaining amount after subtracting the inserted amount from the total amount.

[0127] Figure 29 shows an example of a payment notification screen displayed on the second touch panel 34. Figure 29 shows the cash payment notification screen SDb when a cash payment code is obtained through the processing of ACT156 or ACT157. The cash payment notification screen SDb includes a change dispenser information area ADb similar to the cash payment notification screen SCb.

[0128] After viewing the payment notification screen, the buyer pays using their chosen payment method. For example, a buyer who chooses cash payment inserts cash into the automatic change dispenser 36. A buyer who chooses credit card payment has the cashless payment terminal 37 read their credit card data using its reader. A buyer who chooses electronic money payment has the cashless payment terminal 37 read the data from their electronic money medium using its reader. A buyer who chooses QR code payment has the cashless payment terminal 37 scan a barcode or QR code for QR code payment using its scanner.

[0129] When the screens of the first touch panel 32 and the second touch panel 34 are set to payment notification screens, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT 159. The processor 61 waits for the payment to begin as ACT 159. For example, if cash payment is selected, the processor 61 waits for cash to be inserted into the automatic change dispenser 36. For example, if credit card payment is selected, the processor 61 waits for the credit card data to be read by the cashless payment terminal 37. For example, if electronic money payment is selected, the processor 61 waits for the electronic money data to be read by the cashless payment terminal 37. For example, if code payment is selected, the processor 61 waits for the barcode or two-dimensional data code for code payment to be read by the cashless payment terminal 37.

[0130] When payment begins, processor 61 proceeds from ACT159 to ACT160. As ACT160, processor 61 sets the screens of the first touch panel 32 and the second touch panel 34 as payment screens.

[0131] Figure 30 shows an example of a payment screen displayed on the first touch panel 32. Figure 30 shows the cash payment screen SCc when a cash payment code is obtained through the processing of ACT156 or ACT157. The cash payment screen SCc has the same layout as the cash payment notification screen SCb. The information displayed in the change dispenser information area ACb on the cash payment screen SCc is updated according to the amount of cash inserted into the automatic change dispenser 36.

[0132] Figure 31 shows an example of a payment screen displayed on the second touch panel 34. Figure 31 shows the cash payment screen SDc when a payment code for cash payment is obtained through the processing of ACT156 or ACT157. Similar to the cash payment screen SCc, the information displayed in the change dispenser information area ADb of the cash payment screen SDc is updated according to the amount of cash inserted into the automatic change dispenser 36. The payment screen further includes a checkout button BDb. The checkout button BDb is a software key. The checkout button BDb is an operator used to signal the completion of payment. A buyer who has finished paying using the selected payment method touches the checkout button BDb.

[0133] When the screens of the first touch panel 32 and the second touch panel 34 are set to payment screens, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT 161. As ACT 161, the processor 61 waits for the payment button BDb to be input. When the payment button BDb is input by touch operation, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT 162. As ACT 162, the processor 61 executes the transaction settlement process based on the payment code. That is, if the payment code is a cash payment code, the processor 61 executes the transaction settlement process with the cash inserted into the automatic change dispenser 36. If the payment code is a credit card payment code, the processor 61 executes the transaction settlement process with the credit card data read by the cashless payment terminal 37. If the payment code is an electronic money payment code, the processor 61 executes the transaction settlement process with the electronic money data read by the cashless payment terminal 37. If the payment code is a code payment code, the processor 61 executes the transaction settlement process with the barcode or two-dimensional data code read by the cashless payment terminal 37. Since these payment processing methods are all well-known, I will omit detailed explanations.

[0134] Once the payment processing is complete, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT163. In ACT163, the processor 61 determines whether or not the payment has been completed. If the amount paid is insufficient and the payment is not complete, the processor 61 returns to ACT154. That is, the processor 61 sets the screen of the second touch panel 34 to the payment method selection screen SDa. The processor 61 then waits for a payment method to be selected. When a payment method is selected by touching the selection button group BDa, the processor 61 obtains the payment code. Thereafter, the processor 61 executes the processing of ACT158 to ACT163 in the same manner as described above.

[0135] In ACT163, if the processor 61 determines that payment has been completed, it proceeds to ACT164. In ACT164, the processor 61 drives the printer 35 to issue a transaction receipt. In ACT165, the processor 61 sets the screens of the first touch panel 32 and the second touch panel 34 to payment completion screens.

[0136] Figure 32 shows an example of a payment completion screen displayed on the first touch panel 32. Figure 32 shows the cash payment completion screen SCd when a payment code for cash payment is obtained through the processing of ACT156 or ACT157. The cash payment completion screen SCd includes a change dispenser information area ACb, similar to the cash payment notification screen SCb and the cash payment in progress screen SCc. The store clerk can know that the payment of a customer who selected cash payment has been completed by the information displayed in the change dispenser information area ACb.

[0137] Figure 33 shows an example of a payment completion screen displayed on the second touch panel 34. Figure 33 shows the cash payment completion screen SDd when a cash payment code is obtained through the processing of ACT156 or ACT157. The cash payment completion screen SDd includes a change machine information area ADb, similar to the cash payment notification screen SDb and the cash payment in progress screen SDc. After confirming the cash payment completion screen SDd, the buyer takes their receipt and change and leaves the store.

[0138] After displaying the payment completion screen, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT166. The processor 61 saves the data stored in the second transaction file 622 as ACT166, that is, the data of the goods purchased by the buyer who has completed the payment. The data is saved to, for example, the auxiliary storage device 63. The data may also be saved to the main memory 62. Alternatively, the data from the second transaction file 622 may be sent to the POS server 55 via the communication interface 65 and saved by the POS server 55.

[0139] Processor 61, having saved the data from the second transaction file 622, proceeds to ACT167. As ACT167, Processor 61 clears the second transaction file 622. Processor 61 also rewrites the first payment in progress flag Fa to "0" as ACT168. With this, Processor 61 terminates the second information processing.

[0140] Thus, the second transaction file 622 is cleared by the processing of ACT167 before the second information processing is completed. Also, the first payment in progress flag Fa is rewritten to "0" by the processing of ACT168 before the second information processing is completed. Therefore, the processor 61 of the sales processing device 3 restarts the second information processing when the payment button BAe on the subplanning screen SAb or the payment button BAh on the payment screen SAd is entered after the completion of the second information processing, in the first information processing which was performed in parallel with the second information processing.

[0141] Here, processor 61 realizes the function of a second payment acceptance means 303 by processing ACT153 and ACT154. Processor 61 realizes the function of a first settlement means 304 by processing ACT162.

[0142] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the third information processing performed by the processor 61 of the sales processing device 3 in accordance with the first business program. The processor 61 performs the third information processing in parallel with the first and second information processing described above.

[0143] Processor 61 waits for the second payment in progress flag Fb to be set to "1" as ACT171. When the second payment in progress flag Fb is set to "1" in ACT143 of the first information processing, processor 61 proceeds to ACT172. Processor 61 waits for the payment to be completed at the payment machine 4 as ACT172. As will be described in detail later, once the payment is completed at the payment machine 4, a payment completion event is sent from the payment machine 4 to the sales processing device 3.

[0144] When processor 61 receives a payment completion event from payment machine 4, it determines that payment has been completed at payment machine 4. Processor 61 proceeds from ACT172 to ACT173. In ACT173, processor 61 rewrites the second payment in progress flag Fb to "0". With this, processor 61 terminates the third information processing.

[0145] Thus, the second payment in progress flag Fb is rewritten to "0" by the processing of ACT173 before the completion of the third information processing. Therefore, the processor 61 of the sales processing device 3 restarts the third information processing if, in the first information processing which was performed in parallel with the third information processing, the first payment in progress flag Fa is "1" when the payment button BAe on the subplanning screen SAb or the payment button BAh on the payment screen SAd is entered after the completion of the third information processing.

[0146] Figures 12 and 13 are flowcharts showing the essential steps of the fourth information processing performed by the processor 81 of the payment machine 4 according to the second business program. The processor 81 of the payment machine 4, which is in standby mode, starts the information processing shown in the flowchart of Figure 12. First, the processor 81 sets the screen of the touch panel 42 as the standby screen, which is ACT201. The standby screen is a screen that indicates that the payment machine 4 is in standby mode. For example, the standby screen may display text such as "Please wait" or "Welcome."

[0147] The processor 81, with the touch panel 42 screen set as the standby screen, waits for input events as ACT202. Upon receiving an input event from the sales processing device 3 via the communication interface 85, the processor 81 proceeds to ACT203. The processor 81 then executes product sales data processing as ACT203. This process involves reading the product name, unit price, etc., of the product identified by the product code included in the input event from the product master, generating sales data for the purchased product including the product code, product name, unit price, purchase quantity, sales amount, etc., and writing it to the third transaction file 821.

[0148] Processor 81, having processed the product sales data, proceeds to ACT204. Processor 81 checks whether a new input event has been received as ACT204. If no input event has been received, processor 81 proceeds to ACT205. Processor 81 checks whether a selection event has been received as ACT205. If no selection event has been received, processor 81 proceeds to ACT206. Processor 81 checks whether a deletion event has been received as ACT206. If no deletion event has been received, processor 81 proceeds to ACT207. Processor 81 checks whether a payment event has been received as ACT207. If no payment event has been received, processor 81 returns to ACT204. In this way, processor 81 waits for input events, selection events, deletion events, or payment events in ACT204 through ACT207. Note that even in the waiting state of ACT204 through ACT207, the screen of the touch panel 42 remains in standby mode.

[0149] When the processor 81 receives an input event while in the waiting state for ACT204 through ACT207, it returns to ACT203. The processor 81 then performs product sales data processing based on the product code included in the input event. The processor 81 then returns to the waiting state for ACT204 through ACT207.

[0150] When a selection event is received while in the waiting state of ACT204 through ACT207, processor 81 proceeds to ACT208. As ACT208, processor 81 obtains the payment code for the selected payment method, similar to the processing of ACT123 in the first information processing. Then, as ACT209, processor 81 adds the obtained payment code to the third transaction file 821.

[0151] After adding the payment code to the third transaction file 821, processor 81 proceeds to ACT210. Processor 81 checks whether it has received a delete event as ACT210. If it has not received a delete event, processor 81 proceeds to ACT211. Processor 81 checks whether it has received a payment event as ACT211. If it has not received a payment event, processor 81 returns to ACT210. In this way, after receiving a selection event, processor 81 waits for a delete event or a payment event as ACT210 and ACT211.

[0152] When a deletion event is received while in the waiting state for ACT204 through ACT207, or while in the waiting state for ACT210 and ACT211, processor 81 proceeds to ACT212. Processor 81 clears the third transaction file 821 as ACT212. With this, processor 81 terminates the fourth information processing.

[0153] Thus, if a deletion event is received without receiving a payment event, the third transaction file 821 is cleared, and the payment machine 4 enters a waiting state.

[0154] On the other hand, when a payment event is received while in the standby state of ACT204 to ACT207, or in the standby state of ACT210 and 211, the processor 81 proceeds to ACT213. As ACT213, the processor 81 lights up the warning light 47. Also, as ACT214, the processor 81 sets the screen of the touch panel 42 to the details confirmation screen SEa (see Figure 34).

[0155] Figure 34 shows an example of the details confirmation screen SEa displayed on the touch panel 42. The details confirmation screen SEa is divided into the details area AEa and the total area AEb. The details area AEa is an area that displays the product name, purchase quantity, unit price, discount amount, and sales amount of the purchased products in a transaction in a list format, in sequential order. The total area AEb is an area that displays the total purchase quantity and total sales amount of the purchased products in a transaction. Based on the product sales data stored in the third transaction file 821, the processor 81 causes the details area AEa to display the product name, purchase quantity, unit price, discount amount, and sales amount of the purchased products in a transaction. Based on the product sales data stored in the third transaction file 821, the processor 81 causes the total purchase quantity and total sales amount of the purchased products to be displayed in the total area AEb.

[0156] The item confirmation screen SEa includes a confirmation button BEa and a staff call button BEb. The confirmation button BEa and the staff call button BEb are software keys. The confirmation button BEa is an operator used to signal that the buyer has confirmed that the details of the purchased items are displayed on the item confirmation screen SEa. The staff call button BEb is an operator used to signal that the buyer is calling a staff member.

[0157] After displaying the details confirmation screen SEa, the processor 81 proceeds to ACT215. The processor 81 waits for the confirmation button BEa to be input as ACT215. If the staff call button BEb is input while in this waiting state, the processor 81 will perform the staff call operation. For example, the processor 81 will flash the warning light 47. After the called staff member ends the call, the processor 81 returns to the waiting state for ACT215.

[0158] When the confirmation button BEa is pressed while ACT215 is in standby mode, processor 81 proceeds to ACT221 in Figure 13. Processor 81 checks whether a payment code has been added to the third transaction file 821 as ACT221. If a payment code was added to the third transaction file 821 during the processing of ACT209, processor 81 proceeds to ACT222. Processor 81 extracts the payment code from the third transaction file 821 as ACT222.

[0159] In contrast, if no payment code has been added to the third transaction file 821, the processor 81 proceeds to ACT223. For ACT223, the processor 81 sets the touch panel 42 screen to the payment method selection screen SEb (see Figure 35).

[0160] Figure 35 shows an example of the payment method selection screen SEb displayed on the touch panel 42. The payment method selection screen SEb includes a group of selection buttons BEc for each payment method. The selection button group BEc includes a cash button, a credit button, an electronic money button, and a code payment button. The payment method selection screen SEb also includes a total area AEc that displays the total purchase quantity and total sales amount of the purchased goods in a single transaction. The total area AEc displays the total purchase quantity and total sales amount calculated based on the sales data of the purchased goods stored in the third transaction file 821. The staff call button BEb is also displayed on the payment method selection screen SEb, allowing the customer to call a staff member.

[0161] After viewing the payment method selection screen SEb, the buyer touches the button corresponding to their desired payment method. For example, a buyer who wishes to pay with cash touches the cash button in the selection button group BEc. For example, a buyer who wishes to pay with a credit card touches the credit button in the selection button group BEc. For example, a buyer who wishes to pay with electronic money touches the electronic money button in the selection button group BEc. For example, a buyer who wishes to pay with QR code payment touches the QR code payment button in the selection button group BEc.

[0162] When the touch panel 42 screen is set to the payment method selection screen SEb, the processor 81 proceeds to ACT224. As ACT224, the processor 81 waits for a payment method to be selected. When one of the payment methods is selected by a touch operation on the selection button group BEc, the processor 81 proceeds to ACT225. As ACT225, the processor 81 obtains the payment code for the selected payment method, similar to the processing of ACT123 in the first information processing.

[0163] After completing the processing of ACT222 or ACT225, the processor 81 proceeds to ACT226. As ACT226, the processor 81 sets the screen of the touch panel 42 to the payment notification screen. The payment notification screen is a screen based on the payment code obtained through the processing of ACT222 or ACT225.

[0164] Figure 36 shows an example of a payment notification screen displayed on the touch panel 42. Figure 36 shows the cash payment notification screen SEc when a payment code for cash payment is obtained through processing of ACT222 or ACT225. The cash payment notification screen SEc includes a total area AEc, similar to the payment method selection screen SEb. The cash payment notification screen SEc also includes a change machine information area AEd. The change machine information area AEd displays the total amount, the total amount of cash inserted into the automatic change machine 88 (so-called inserted amount), and the remaining amount after subtracting the inserted amount from the total amount. The staff call button BEb is also displayed on the payment notification screen, allowing the customer to call a staff member.

[0165] After viewing the payment notification screen, the buyer pays the amount using their chosen payment method. For example, a buyer who chooses cash payment inserts cash into the automatic change dispenser 88. A buyer who chooses credit card payment has the cashless payment terminal 89 read the credit card data using its reader. A buyer who chooses electronic money payment has the cashless payment terminal 89 read the data on their electronic money medium using its reader. A buyer who chooses code payment has the cashless payment terminal 89 scan a barcode or two-dimensional data code for code payment using its scanner.

[0166] If the touch panel 42 screen is set to a payment notification screen, the processor 81 proceeds to ACT227. The processor 81 waits for the payment to begin as ACT227. For example, if cash payment is selected, the processor 81 waits for cash to be inserted into the automatic change dispenser 88. For example, if credit card payment is selected, the processor 81 waits for the credit card data to be read by the cashless payment terminal 89. For example, if electronic money payment is selected, the processor 81 waits for the electronic money data to be read by the cashless payment terminal 89. For example, if code payment is selected, the processor 81 waits for the barcode or two-dimensional data code for code payment to be read by the cashless payment terminal 89.

[0167] When payment begins, processor 81 proceeds from ACT227 to ACT228. As ACT228, processor 81 sets the screen of touch panel 42 to a payment progress screen.

[0168] Figure 37 shows an example of a payment screen displayed on the touch panel 42. Figure 37 shows the cash payment screen SEd when a cash payment code is obtained through processing of ACT222 or ACT225. The cash payment screen SEd is a screen with the cash payment notification screen SCb with the payment button BEd added. On the cash payment screen SCc, the information displayed in the change machine information area AEd is updated according to the amount of cash inserted into the automatic change machine 88. The payment button BEd is a software key. The payment button BEd is an operator used to signal the completion of payment. A customer who has finished paying using the selected payment method touches the payment button BEd. The staff call button BEb is also displayed on the payment screen, and the customer can call a staff member.

[0169] When the touch panel 42 screen is set to the payment screen, the processor 81 proceeds to ACT229. The processor 81 waits for the payment button BEd to be input as ACT229. When the payment button BEd is input by touch operation, the processor 81 proceeds to ACT230. As ACT230, the processor 81 executes the transaction settlement process based on the payment code. That is, if the payment code is a cash payment code, the processor 81 executes the transaction settlement process with the cash inserted into the automatic change dispenser 88. If the payment code is a credit card payment code, the processor 81 executes the transaction settlement process with the credit card data read by the cashless payment terminal 89. If the payment code is an electronic money payment code, the processor 81 executes the transaction settlement process with the electronic money data read by the cashless payment terminal 89. If the payment code is a code payment code, the processor 81 executes the transaction settlement process with the barcode or two-dimensional data code read by the cashless payment terminal 89. Since these payment processing methods are all well-known, I will omit detailed explanations.

[0170] Once the payment processing is complete, processor 81 proceeds to ACT231. Processor 81 determines whether the payment has been completed as ACT231. If the amount paid is insufficient and the payment is not complete, processor 81 returns to ACT223. That is, processor 81 sets the touch panel 42 screen to the payment method selection screen SEb. Processor 81 then waits for a payment method to be selected. When a payment method is selected by touch operation on the selection button group BEc, processor 81 obtains the payment code for the selected payment method. Thereafter, processor 81 executes the processing of ACT226 to ACT231 in the same manner as described above.

[0171] In ACT231, if the processor 81 determines that payment has been completed, it proceeds to ACT232. In ACT232, the processor 81 drives the printer 87 to issue a transaction receipt. Also, in ACT233, the processor 81 sets the touch panel 42 screen to the payment completion screen.

[0172] Figure 38 shows an example of a payment completion screen displayed on the touch panel 42. Figure 38 shows the cash payment completion screen SEe when a payment code for cash payment is obtained through processing ACT222 or ACT225. The cash payment completion screen SEe includes a change machine information area AEd, similar to the cash payment notification screen SEc and the cash payment in progress screen SEd. The store clerk can know that the payment of a customer who selected cash payment has been completed by the information displayed in the change machine information area AEd. Note that the customer who has completed payment will not call a store clerk, so the store clerk call button BEb is not displayed on the payment completion screen. After confirming the payment completion screen, the customer takes the receipt and leaves the store.

[0173] After displaying the payment completion screen, the processor 81 proceeds to ACT234. The processor 81 saves the data stored in the third transaction file 821 as ACT234, that is, the data of the goods purchased by the buyer who has completed the payment. The data is saved to, for example, the auxiliary storage device 83. The data may also be saved to the main memory 82. Alternatively, the data from the third transaction file 821 may be sent to the POS server 55 via the communication interface 85 and saved by the POS server 55.

[0174] Having saved the data in the third transaction file 821, processor 81 proceeds to ACT235, where it clears the third transaction file 821 as ACT235. Processor 81 also sends a payment completion event to the sales processing device 3 via the communication interface 85 as ACT236. Furthermore, processor 81 turns off the warning light 47 as ACT237. With this, processor 81 completes the fourth information processing.

[0175] Thus, when the processor 81 of the payment machine 4 has finished processing ACT213 to ACT234, it clears the third transaction file 821. Then the processor 81 sends a payment completion event to the sales processing unit 3. Upon receiving the payment completion event, the sales processing unit 3 overwrites the second payment in progress flag Fb to "0" and the third information processing is completed. Therefore, when the first information processing is executed again in the sales processing unit 3 and a payment event is sent to the payment machine 4 in ACT141, the processor 81 of the payment machine 4 executes the processing from ACT213 onwards of the fourth information processing in the same manner as described above.

[0176] Incidentally, when the payment processing device 3 receives a payment event, the warning light 47 on the payment machine 4 lights up. The warning light 47 then turns off when the payment completion event is sent from the payment machine 4 to the sales processing device 3. Therefore, the store clerk standing in space SP can recognize that the buyer is operating the payment machine 4 and paying for the item as long as the warning light 47 is lit.

[0177] Here, processor 81 realizes the function of a third payment acceptance means 401 through the processing of ACT223. Processor 81 realizes the function of a second processing means 402 through the processing of ACT203. Processor 81 realizes the function of a second settlement means 403 through the processing of ACT230. Processor 81 realizes the function of a deletion means 404 through the processing of ACT212.

[0178] As detailed above, in the product sales system 1, the registration of purchased items by a customer is performed by a store clerk standing in space SP operating the device on input device 2. On the other hand, the payment for the registered purchased items is performed by the customer themselves operating the device on the sales processing device 3 or payment machine 4 as they move down aisle PA. Furthermore, in the product sales system 1, even while a customer is operating the device on the sales processing device 3 or payment machine 4 to make a payment, the store clerk can operate the device on input device 2 to register the purchased items for the next customer. Therefore, even with a product sales system 1 of the same scale as a two-person product sales system, it can simultaneously serve up to three customers: one customer registering items and two customers paying. Thus, compared to adopting an existing two-person product sales system, it can efficiently serve customers even during peak hours. Moreover, since only one store clerk is required for the operation, labor costs can be reduced. In addition, since store clerks do not touch cash, cash cards, etc., it can be expected to have a superior effect in terms of infectious disease control.

[0179] Furthermore, the product sales system 1 can easily switch between two operations: a first operation in which a store clerk operates the input device 2 to specify the payment method selected by the buyer, and a second operation in which the buyer operates the sales processing device 3 or payment machine 4 to specify the payment method selected by the buyer.

[0180] When the second operation is performed, the screen of the second touch panel 34 on the sales processing device 3 or the touch panel 42 on the payment machine 4 first becomes the payment method selection screen. Here, when the buyer specifies their desired payment method, the screen transitions to the payment notification screen. Then, when the buyer starts paying, the screen transitions to the payment in progress screen c, and when the payment is completed, the screen transitions to the payment completion screen.

[0181] In contrast, if the first operation is performed, the payment method selection screen will not be displayed on the second touch panel 34 or touch panel 42. First, the payment notification screen will be displayed on the second touch panel 34. Then, when the buyer starts paying, the screen will transition to the payment in progress screen, and when the payment is completed, the screen will transition to the payment complete screen.

[0182] Thus, even when the first or second operation is implemented, the buyer can efficiently pay the price regardless of the payment method, simply by following the screen transitions displayed on the second touch panel 34 or touch panel 42.

[0183] Incidentally, when the second operation is implemented, an additional step is added where the buyer selects a payment method from the payment methods displayed on the payment method selection screen and touches the button for the corresponding payment method. As a result, the time that the buyer occupies the sales processing device 3 or payment machine 4 tends to be longer compared to when the first operation is implemented. Therefore, the first operation is implemented during relatively busy times. By doing so, the time that the buyer occupies the sales processing device 3 or payment machine 4 is shortened, allowing for more efficient handling of customers. On the other hand, the second operation is implemented during relatively quiet times. By doing so, the burden on the staff is reduced because the staff does not need to confirm the payment method with the buyer.

[0184] [Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment, four types of payment methods were exemplified: cash payment, credit card payment, electronic money payment, and code payment. However, payment methods are not limited to these four types. For example, there is payment using gift certificates or other monetary vouchers. In the case of payment using gift certificates, from the standpoint of preventing fraud, the store clerk must verify the voucher before it can be used for payment. For this reason, the payment machine 4 needs to be configured to not accept payment using gift certificates.

[0185] Next, a second embodiment of the product sales system 1, which adds payment by gift certificate as a payment method, will be described using Figures 39 to 49. In the second embodiment, the hardware configuration of the product sales system 1 is the same as in the first embodiment. Therefore, Figures 1 to 4 will be used as they are in the second embodiment. In addition, for other figures, figures common to the first embodiment will be used as they are, or the reference numerals used in the first embodiment will be reused, and detailed explanations will be omitted.

[0186] Figure 39 is a schematic diagram showing the main functional configuration of the input device 2, the sales processing device 3, and the payment machine 4. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the following two points. [1] The first payment acceptance means 203 and the second payment acceptance means 303 allow payment by gift certificate. [2] The sales processing device 3 has the function of a verification means 312.

[0187] Figure 40 shows an example of a payment method selection screen SAc displayed on the touch panel 23 of the input device 2, functioning as the first payment acceptance means 203. As shown in the figure, in the second embodiment, a voucher button is added to the group of selection buttons BAg for each payment method on the payment method selection screen SAc. The voucher button is an operator for commanding voucher payment.

[0188] Figure 41 shows an example of a payment method selection screen SDa displayed on the second touch panel 34 of the sales processing device 3, functioning as a second payment acceptance means 303. As shown in the figure, in the second embodiment, a voucher button is added to the group of selection buttons BDa for each payment method on the payment method selection screen SDa.

[0189] Furthermore, the third payment acceptance means 401 of the payment machine 4 is the same as in the first embodiment. Therefore, as shown in Figure 35, the selection button group BEc on the payment method selection screen SEb displayed on the touch panel 42 of the payment machine 4 includes a cash button, a credit button, an electronic money button, and a code payment button, but does not include a gift certificate button.

[0190] The confirmation means 312 is a function that checks whether the payment method received by the first payment receiving means 203 is a payment method that requires confirmation by a store clerk, when the settlement of the transaction is impossible at the time the termination receiving means 202 receives the input termination instruction. In the second embodiment, the payment method that requires confirmation by a store clerk is payment by cash voucher. The confirmation means 312 determines that the settlement of the transaction is impossible when the first payment in progress flag Fa stored in the flag memory 624 is "1", that is, when another buyer is paying the price in the sales processing device 3. At this time, the confirmation means 312 checks whether the payment method received by the first payment receiving means 203 is payment by cash voucher.

[0191] When the payment method is cash, credit card, electronic money, or code payment, verification by a store employee is not required. In this case, the sales processing device 3, functioning as an instruction transmission means 310, transmits an input completion instruction to the payment machine 4. As a result, the buyer can pay the price at the payment machine 4 using cash, credit card, electronic money, or code payment.

[0192] In contrast, if the payment method is payment with a gift certificate, that is, if verification by a store employee is required, the sales processing device 3 does not send an input completion instruction to the payment machine 4. The sales processing device 3 waits for the first payment in progress flag Fa to become "0" and for the transaction to be settled, and then, functioning as the first settlement means 304, settles the transaction of the sales data processed by the first processing means 302 with a gift certificate. As a result, the buyer pays the price using the gift certificate payment method at the sales processing device 3. Even if the sales processing device 3 is occupied, the buyer cannot pay at the payment machine 4. Therefore, it is possible to ensure that the store employee in space SP verifies the gift certificate or other gift certificate used by the buyer. As a result, it is possible to add payment methods that require verification by a store employee.

[0193] Figures 42 and 43 are flowcharts showing the main steps of the fifth information processing performed by the processor 61 of the sales processing device 3 in accordance with the first business program in the second embodiment. The fifth information processing is a modification of the first information processing. Specifically, after obtaining the payment code in ACT123 of the first information processing as explained with Figure 7, the processor 61 checks whether the payment code is a code for payment with a gift certificate as ACT301 in Figure 42. Here, the processor 61 realizes the function of a verification means 312 by processing ACT301.

[0194] If the payment code is not a code for payment with a gift certificate, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT124. That is, the processor 61 sends a selection event to the payment machine 4 via the communication interface 65. After that, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT125. The processor 61 sets the screen of the touch panel 23 to the payment screen SAd.

[0195] If the payment code is a code for payment with a gift certificate, the processor 61 skips processing ACT124 and proceeds to ACT125. In other words, the processor 61 sets the screen of the touch panel 23 to the payment screen SAd without sending a selection event to the payment machine 4.

[0196] Thus, if the payment code is not a code for payment with a gift certificate, that is, if the cash button, credit button, electronic money button, or code payment button is operated on the payment method selection screen SAc displayed on the touch panel 23 of the input device 2, a selection event is sent to the payment machine 4. As a result, the payment code included in the payment event is added to the third transaction file 821 at the payment machine 4.

[0197] In contrast, if the payment code is a code for payment using a gift certificate, that is, if the gift certificate button is pressed on the payment method selection screen SAc, a selection event is not sent to the payment machine 4. Therefore, the payment code is not added to the third transaction file 821 at the payment machine 4.

[0198] When the touch panel 23 screen is set to the payment screen SAd, the processor 61 executes the processes of ACT126 to ACT129 in the same way as in the first information processing. Therefore, when the first payment in progress flag Fa is "0" and the payment button BAe on the subplan screen SAb or the payment button BAh on the payment screen SAd is input, the processor 61 executes the processes of ACT131 to ACT139 shown in the flowchart of Figure 8. As a result, the first payment in progress flag Fa is rewritten to "1", and the processor 61 executes the second information processing described with reference to Figure 10 in parallel with the fifth information processing.

[0199] On the other hand, when the first payment in progress flag Fa is "1" and the second payment in progress flag Fb is "0", if the payment button BAe on the subplanning screen SAb or the payment button BAh on the payment screen SAd is entered, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT311 in Figure 43. The processor 61 checks whether or not it has obtained a payment code as ACT311. If the payment button BAe on the subplanning screen SAb is entered, the processor 61 has not obtained a payment code. If the payment button BAh on the payment screen SAd is entered, the processor 61 has obtained a payment code.

[0200] If a payment code has not been obtained, processor 61 proceeds to ACT141. Processor 61 then executes ACT141 through ACT144 in the same manner as in the first information processing. If a payment code has been obtained, processor 61 proceeds to ACT312. Processor 61 checks whether the payment code is a payment code for voucher payment. If it is a payment code other than a voucher payment, processor 61 executes ACT141 through ACT144 in the same manner as in the first information processing.

[0201] Thus, if a payment code has not been obtained, or if a payment code other than a gift certificate has been obtained, the processor 61 executes the processing of ACT141 to ACT144 in the same way as in the first information processing. As a result, the second payment in progress flag Fb is rewritten to "1", so the processor 61 executes the third information processing as explained with Figure 11 in parallel with the fifth information processing. Also, since the payment event is sent to the payment machine 4, the payment machine 4 executes the settlement processing of the transaction based on the payment code added to the third transaction file 821. In this way, the buyer can operate the payment machine 4 and pay for the purchased goods.

[0202] On the other hand, if the payment code obtained in ACT123 is a payment code for a gift certificate, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT313. As ACT313, the processor 61 displays a pop-up PUa (see Figure 20) on the subplanning surface SAb or payment screen SAd of the touch panel 23 to inform the user that payment is not possible. The processor 61 also displays text TXa (see Figure 21) on the subplanning surface SBb of the display 25 to instruct the user to wait because payment is not possible.

[0203] Subsequently, processor 61 proceeds to ACT314. Processor 61 waits for the first payment flag Fa to be rewritten to "0" as ACT314. The first payment flag Fa is rewritten to "0" in ACT168 of the second information processing, which is performed in parallel with the fifth information processing. Once the first payment flag Fa is rewritten to "0", processor 61 proceeds to ACT131 in Figure 8. Processor 61 then executes the processes from ACT131 to ACT139. As a result, the first payment flag Fa is rewritten to "1", and processor 61 executes the second information processing, as explained using Figure 10, in parallel with the fifth information processing.

[0204] Thus, when payment by gift certificate is selected as the payment method, the processor 61 can perform the second information processing, but it cannot perform the third information processing. Therefore, a buyer who wishes to pay by gift certificate must operate the sales processing device 3 to pay for the purchased goods.

[0205] Figure 44 is an example of a gift certificate payment notification screen SFa displayed on the first touch panel 32 of the sales processing device 3 in the ACT158 process when a payment code for gift certificate payment is obtained through the processing of ACT156 or ACT157 of the second information processing. Figure 45 is an example of a gift certificate payment notification screen SGa displayed on the second touch panel 34 of the sales processing device 3 in the ACT158 process when a payment code for gift certificate payment is also obtained.

[0206] As shown in Figure 44, the voucher payment notification screen SFa displays text TXd instructing the store clerk to receive the voucher from the purchaser and scan the barcode indicating the face value of the voucher. Also, as shown in Figure 45, the voucher payment notification screen SGa displays text TXe instructing the purchaser to hand the voucher to the store clerk. Therefore, the purchaser who has seen the voucher payment notification screen SGa hands the voucher to be used for payment to the store clerk. The store clerk who has seen the voucher payment notification screen SFa verifies whether the voucher is valid, and if it is, reads the barcode printed on the voucher with the handheld scanner 33.

[0207] When a barcode is read, the processor 61 sets the screens of the first touch panel 32 and the second touch panel 34 in ACT160 to the voucher payment screen. Figure 46 is an example of the voucher payment screen SFb displayed on the first touch panel 32. Figure 47 is an example of the voucher payment screen SGb displayed on the second touch panel 34. The voucher payment screen SFb has a voucher information area AFb that displays the total amount, the face value of the voucher, and the change amount. The voucher payment screen SGb has a similar voucher information area AGb, as well as a payment button BGa.

[0208] When the buyer presses the voucher button, the processor 61 executes the payment process using the voucher. Once payment is complete, the processor 61 drives the printer 35 to issue a transaction receipt. The processor 61 also sets the screens of the first touch panel 32 and the second touch panel 34 to the payment completion screen.

[0209] Figure 48 shows an example of a voucher payment completion screen SFc displayed on the first touch panel 32 of the sales processing device 3. As shown in the figure, the voucher payment completion screen SFc displays text TXf instructing the store clerk to collect the voucher. Therefore, the store clerk who has confirmed the voucher payment completion screen SFc collects the voucher received from the purchaser.

[0210] As detailed above, the second embodiment provides a product sales system 1 in which a store employee can always verify gift certificates and other monetary vouchers before allowing the purchaser to perform the payment operation.

[0211] [Third Embodiment] The second embodiment illustrates a case where the face value of a gift certificate is entered by scanning its barcode. However, the face value of a gift certificate is not always indicated by a barcode. Therefore, a third embodiment in which the face value of a gift certificate is entered by a method other than barcode scanning will be explained using Figure 49.

[0212] Figure 49 shows an example of the voucher selection screen SHa displayed on the first touch panel 32 of the sales processing device 3. The voucher selection screen SHa is displayed before the payment notification screen is displayed when the payment code obtained by the processor 61 in ACT156 of the second information processing, or in the processing of ACT157, is a payment code for voucher payment.

[0213] The gift certificate selection screen SHa includes an amount button BHa for entering the face value of each gift certificate, such as 100 yen, 500 yen, 1000 yen, 2000 yen, 5000 yen, and 10000 yen, and a confirmation button BHb. The amount button BHa and the confirmation button BHb are software keys. For example, if the face value of the gift certificate presented by the buyer is 1000 yen, the clerk touches the 1000 yen amount button BHa and then presses the confirmation button BHb. For example, if the face value is 3000 yen, the clerk touches the 2000 yen and 1000 yen amount buttons BHa and then presses the confirmation button BHb. Alternatively, the clerk touches the 1000 yen amount button BHa three times and then presses the confirmation button BHb. When the confirmation button BHb is pressed, the processor 61 processes the amount entered by the amount button BHa as the face value of the gift certificate.

[0214] According to the third embodiment of this configuration, even if the face value of the gift certificate is not indicated by a barcode, the store clerk can easily input the face value of the gift certificate into the sales processing device 3.

[0215] [Fourth Embodiment] One payment method is point payment. Point payment is a method where customers who have become point members can use their accumulated points to pay for their purchases.

[0216] Next, a fourth embodiment of the product sales system 1, which adds point payment as a payment method, will be described using Figures 50 to 56. In the fourth embodiment, the hardware configuration of the product sales system 1 is the same as in the second embodiment. Therefore, Figures 1 to 4 will be used as they are in the fourth embodiment. In addition, for other figures, figures common to the first and second embodiments will be used as they are, or the reference numerals used in the first and second embodiments will be reused, and detailed explanations will be omitted.

[0217] Figure 50 is a schematic diagram showing the main functional configuration of the input device 2, the sales processing device 3, and the payment machine 4. The fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the following three points. [1] The first payment acceptance method 203 allows the user to select payment by points. [2] The input device 2 has the function of a reading means 204. [3] The sales processing device 3 has the function of a point acquisition means 313.

[0218] Figure 51 shows an example of a payment method selection screen SAc displayed on the touch panel 23 of the input device 2, functioning as the first payment acceptance means 203. As shown in the figure, in the fourth embodiment, a points button is added to the group of selection buttons BAg for each payment method on the payment method selection screen SAc. The points button is an operator for commanding point payment.

[0219] The reading means 204 is a function for reading the member ID assigned to each member in order to identify the point member. The member ID is recorded on an IC card, for example. In this case, the IC card reader becomes the reading means 204. The member ID may also be displayed in the form of a barcode on a smartphone, for example. In this case, the handheld scanner 22 becomes the reading means 204.

[0220] The point acquisition means 313 is a function that acquires the accumulated points of a point member identified by their member ID. For example, the POS server 55 has a point database that stores the accumulated points associated with each point member's member ID. The point acquisition means 313 searches the point database using the member ID read by the reading means 204 and acquires the accumulated points associated with that member ID.

[0221] Figure 52 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the sixth information processing performed by the processor 61 of the sales processing device 3 in accordance with the first business program in the fourth embodiment. The sixth information processing is a modification of part of the fifth information processing. Specifically, if the processor 61 determines that the payment code obtained in ACT301 of the fifth information processing, as explained using Figure 42, is not a code for payment with a gift certificate, it checks whether the payment code is a code for payment with points, as ACT401 in Figure 53.

[0222] If the code is not for point payment, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT124. That is, the processor 61 sends a selection event to the payment machine 4 via the communication interface 65. The selection event includes the payment code for the payment method selected on the payment method selection screen SAc. The processor 61 then proceeds to ACT125. The processor 61 sets the screen of the touch panel 23 to the payment screen SAd.

[0223] If the payment code is a points payment code, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT402. The processor 61 checks whether the member ID has been read as ACT402. If the member ID has not been read, the processor 61 waits for the member ID to be read. If the member ID is read by the reading means 204, or if it has already been read, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT403. The processor 61 obtains the accumulated points associated with that member ID as ACT403. Here, the processor 61 realizes the function of the point acquisition means 313 through the processing of ACT403.

[0224] The processor 61, having acquired the accumulated points, proceeds to ACT 124. That is, the processor 61 sends a selection event to the payment machine 4 via the communication interface 65. The selection event includes the payment code for point payment. The selection event also includes the member ID and accumulated points. After that, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT 125. The processor 61 sets the screen of the touch panel 23 to the payment screen SAd.

[0225] When the touch panel 23 screen is set to the payment screen SAd, the processor 61 executes the processes of ACT126 to ACT129 in the same way as in the fourth information processing. Therefore, when the first payment in progress flag Fa is "0" and the payment button BAe on the subplan screen SAb or the payment button BAh on the payment screen SAd is input, the processor 61 executes the processes of ACT131 to ACT139 shown in the flowchart of Figure 8. As a result, the first payment in progress flag Fa is rewritten to "1", and the processor 61 executes the second information processing described using Figure 10 in parallel with the sixth information processing.

[0226] Furthermore, when the first payment in progress flag Fa is "1" and the second payment in progress flag Fb is "0", if the payment button BAe on the subplanning screen SAb or the payment button BAh on the payment screen SAd is input, the processor 61 executes the processes ACT141 to ACT144 shown in the flowchart of Figure 9. As a result, the second payment in progress flag Fa is rewritten to "1", and the processor 61 executes the third information process, as explained using Figure 11, in parallel with the sixth information process.

[0227] A customer who chooses to pay with points presents their member ID to the store clerk. The clerk reads the member ID with the reader 204 and touches the points button on the payment method selection screen SAc. If the sales processing device 3 is available at this time, the point payment notification screen SIa (see Figure 53) is displayed on the second touch panel 158.

[0228] Figure 53 shows an example of a points payment notification screen SIa. The points payment notification screen SIa includes a points information area AIa. The points information area AIa displays the total amount, accumulated points, and the remaining balance calculated by subtracting the amount of points used from the total amount.

[0229] The point payment notification screen SIa also includes a group of buttons BIa for specifying the points to be used. The button group BIa includes a first button BTa which specifies that the entire total amount should be paid with points, a second button BTb which specifies that the last three digits of the total amount should be paid with points, a third button BTc which specifies that the last two digits of the total amount should be paid with points, and a fourth button BTd which specifies that the last digit of the total amount should be paid with points. For reference, Figure 53 shows the point payment notification screen SIa when the total amount is 1230 yen and the accumulated points are 2345 points. After the purchaser confirms the point payment notification screen SIa, they touch the button corresponding to the points to be used for payment from the first to fourth buttons BTa, BTb, BTc, and BTd of the button group BIa. Although not shown in Figure 53, the points to be used may also be entered using the numeric keypad. When any button in the button group BIa is pressed, the screen of the second touch panel 158 changes to the point payment screen SIb (see Figure 54).

[0230] Figure 54 shows an example of the point payment screen SIb when the buyer touches the first button BTa to pay the full amount with points. The point payment screen SIb includes a point information area AIa, similar to the point payment notification screen SIa. The point payment screen SIb also includes an OK button BIb and a back button BIc. The OK button BIb and the back button BIc are software keys. The buyer touches the OK button BIb to pay with points. The buyer touches the back button BIc to review the points used. When the back button BIc is pressed, the screen of the second touch panel 34 returns to the point payment notification screen SIa. When the OK button BIb is pressed, the screen of the second touch panel 158 becomes the point payment completion screen SIc (see Figure 55).

[0231] Figure 55 shows an example of the points payment completion screen SIc. The points payment completion screen SIc includes a points information area AIa, similar to the points payment in progress screen SIb and the points payment notification screen SIa. The points payment completion screen SIc also displays text instructing the buyer to take a receipt and text notifying them of any remaining points after payment. After viewing the points payment completion screen SIc, the buyer takes a receipt and leaves the store.

[0232] Thus, even buyers who choose to pay with points can simply follow the instructions on the screen displayed on the second touch panel 34 to complete the payment using points. Moreover, the points that can be used can be selected from the group of buttons BIa displayed on the point payment notification screen SIa, making the process very efficient.

[0233] As mentioned above, the selection event transmitted from the sales processing device 3 to the payment machine 4 includes the member ID and accumulated points in addition to the payment code for point payments. Therefore, although a detailed explanation will be omitted, the payment machine 4 can settle transactions for buyers who have selected point payments, just as the sales processing device 3 can.

[0234] [Other embodiments] The sales processing device 3 may be connected to two or more payment machines 4. For example, by connecting two payment machines 4 to the sales processing device 3, it is possible to simultaneously process up to four customers: one customer registering a purchase and three customers paying for their purchases. Incidentally, when two or more payment machines 4 are connected, the processor 61 of the sales processing device transmits input events and selection events to each payment machine 4 in parallel via multicast communication. On the other hand, payment events are sent to one of the payment machines 4, and deletion events are sent to the other payment machines 4. In this way, a product sales system can be configured with two or more payment machines 4 connected to the sales processing device 3.

[0235] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which the store clerk chooses whether to adopt a first operation in which the clerk specifies the payment method, or a second operation in which the buyer specifies the payment method. In this regard, for example, the processor 61 of the sales processing device 3 may automatically decide based on criteria such as the time of day, day of the week, date, etc.

[0236] Furthermore, payment methods requiring verification by a store employee are not limited to payments using gift certificates. For example, verification by a store employee may also be required for payments made using a code. The second embodiment can be applied to such payment methods.

[0237] In the fourth embodiment, an example was given in which the input device 2 is equipped with a reading means 204. In other embodiments, the sales processing device 3 and the payment machine 4 may be equipped with reading means. That is, the purchaser can perform the member ID reading operation themselves.

[0238] 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. The invention described in the original claims of this application is listed below. [1] The sales processing device includes an input device, a sales processing device, and a payment machine, wherein the input device comprises an input means for inputting information relating to the purchased goods to be purchased by a buyer, an end-reception means for receiving an instruction to end the input of information relating to the purchased goods, and a first payment reception means for receiving input of a selection method of payment, the sales processing device comprises a first processing means for processing sales data of the purchased goods based on the information relating to the purchased goods input via the input means, an information transmission means for transmitting the information relating to the purchased goods input via the input means to the payment machine, a second payment reception means for receiving input of a selection method of payment via a device operated by the buyer if the first payment reception means has not received input of a selection method of payment when the end-reception means has received the input end instruction, and if the transaction cannot be settled when the end-reception means has received the input end instruction A product sales system comprising: an instruction transmission means for transmitting an input completion instruction to the payment machine in some cases; a first settlement means for settling the transaction of sales data processed by the first processing means in accordance with the payment method accepted by the first payment acceptance means or the second payment acceptance means, when the transaction can be settled when the completion acceptance means receives the input completion instruction; wherein the payment machine comprises: a third payment acceptance means for receiving input of a selection of a payment method via a device operated by the purchaser; a second processing means for processing sales data of purchased goods based on information relating to the purchased goods received from the sales processing device; and a second settlement means for settling the transaction of sales data processed by the second processing means in accordance with the payment method accepted by the first payment acceptance means or the third payment acceptance means, in response to receiving the input completion instruction from the sales processing device. [2] The product sales system according to Appendix [1], wherein the sales processing device further comprises a deletion instruction means for instructing the payment machine to delete sales data when the transaction can be settled at the time the termination receiving means receives the input termination instruction, and the payment machine further comprises a deletion means for deleting the sales data processed by the second processing means in response to receiving the deletion instruction from the sales processing device. [3] The sales processing device further comprises a storage means for storing first identification information indicating that payment by the first payment means is in progress and second identification information indicating that payment by the second payment means is in progress, and a guidance means for guiding the payment of the price at the payment machine when the storage means has stored the first identification information but has not stored the second identification information and the termination receiving means has received the input termination instruction. [4] The sales processing device further comprises invalidation means for invalidating the acceptance of the input termination instruction by the termination acceptance means while the storage means is storing the first identification information and the second identification information, as described in Appendix [3]. [5] The sales processing device further comprises a confirmation means for confirming whether the payment method received by the first payment receiving means is a payment method that requires confirmation by a store clerk, if the settlement of the transaction is not possible at the time the termination receiving means receives the input termination instruction, and if the confirmation means confirms that the payment method does not require confirmation by a store clerk, the instruction transmission means transmits the input termination instruction to the payment machine, and if the confirmation means confirms that the payment method requires confirmation by a store clerk, the first settlement means settles the transaction of the sales data processed by the first processing means in accordance with the payment method that requires confirmation by a store clerk, as described in Appendix [1]. [6] A sales processing device that constitutes a product sales system together with an input device and a payment machine, comprising: processing means for processing sales data of purchased products based on information relating to purchased products input via the input device; information transmission means for transmitting the information relating to purchased products input via the input device to the payment machine; payment acceptance means for receiving input of a payment method via a device operated by the purchaser of the purchased products when the input device has not received an input termination instruction; instruction transmission means for transmitting the input termination instruction to the payment machine when the transaction cannot be settled when the input device has received the input termination instruction; and settlement means for settling the transaction of the sales data processed by the processing means in accordance with the payment method accepted by the input device or the payment method accepted by the payment acceptance means when the transaction can be settled when the input device has received the input termination instruction. [7] A program to cause the computer of a sales processing device that constitutes a product sales system together with an input device and a payment machine to function as: a processing means for processing sales data of purchased products based on information relating to purchased products entered via the input device; an information transmission means for transmitting information relating to purchased products entered via the input device to the payment machine; a payment acceptance means for accepting input of a payment method via a device operated by the purchaser of the purchased products when the input device has not accepted input of a payment method when it has received an input termination instruction; an instruction transmission means for transmitting the input termination instruction to the payment machine when it is impossible to settle the transaction when the input device has received the input termination instruction; and a settlement means for settling the transaction of the sales data processed by the processing means in accordance with the payment method accepted by the input device or the payment method accepted by the payment acceptance means when it is possible to settle the transaction when the input device has received the input termination instruction. [Explanation of symbols]

[0239] 1…Product sales system, 2…Input device, 3…Sales processing device, 4…Payment machine, 21…Fixed scanner, 22…Handheld scanner, 23…Touch panel, 24…Keyboard, 25…Display, 31…Keyboard, 32…First touch panel, 33…Handheld scanner, 34…Second touch panel, 35,87…Printer, 36,88…Automatic change dispenser, 37,89…Cashless payment terminal, 41…Basket stand, 42…Touch panel, 47…Warning light, 51…Checkout counter, 52…Cash register counter, 53…Transmission cable, 54…LAN, 55…POS server, 61,81…Processor, 62,82…Main memory, 63,83…Auxiliary storage device, 64,84…Clock, 65,85…Communication interface, 66…Scanner interface, 67…Touch panel interface, 68…Printer input Interface, 69... Change dispenser interface, 70... Payment terminal interface, 71... Input device interface, 72, 86... System transmission path, 201... Input means, 202... Termination acceptance means, 203... First payment acceptance means, 204... Reading means, 301... First communication means, 302... First processing means, 303... Second payment acceptance means, 304... First settlement means, 305... Storage means, 306... Guidance means, 307 ...Invalidation means, 308...Second communication means, 309...Information transmission means, 310...Instruction transmission means, 311...Deletion instruction means, 312...Confirmation means, 313...Point acquisition means, 401...Third payment acceptance means, 402...Second processing means, 403...Second settlement means, 404...Deletion means, 621...First transaction file, 622...Second transaction file, 623...Status memory, 624...Flag memory, 821...Third transaction file.

Claims

1. It includes an input device, a sales processing device, and a payment machine. The aforementioned input device is An input means for entering information related to the purchased goods that the buyer is purchasing, A termination reception means for receiving an instruction to complete the input of information related to the purchased product, A first payment acceptance method that accepts input of the selection method of payment, It is equipped with, The aforementioned sales processing device is A first processing means that processes sales data of the purchased product based on the information relating to the purchased product input via the input means, Information transmission means for transmitting information relating to the purchased product, which has been input via the input means, to the payment machine, If the first payment receiving means has not received input of the payment method selection at the time the termination receiving means receives the input termination instruction, a second payment receiving means accepts input of the payment method selection via a device operated by the purchaser, A first settlement means that settles the transaction of the sales data processed by the first processing means in accordance with the payment method received by the first payment acceptance means or the second payment acceptance means, A storage means for storing first identification information indicating that settlement of the transaction is being performed by the first settlement means, When the termination receiving means has received the input termination instruction, the storage means has stored the first identification information, and the instruction transmitting means transmits the input termination instruction to the payment machine, If the termination receiving means has not stored the first identification information in the storage means at the time it receives the input termination instruction, a control means causes the first settlement means to execute settlement of the transaction. When the settlement of a transaction by the first settlement means is completed, the storage means transitions from a state in which it stores the first identification information to a state in which it does not store the information. It is equipped with, The aforementioned payment machine is A third payment acceptance means that accepts input of a payment method selection via a device operated by the aforementioned purchaser, A second processing means for processing sales data of the purchased product based on information related to the purchased product received from the sales processing device, Upon receiving the input termination instruction from the sales processing device, a second settlement means settles the transaction of the sales data processed by the second processing means in accordance with the payment method accepted by the first payment acceptance means or the third payment acceptance means. A product sales system equipped with the following features.

2. The aforementioned sales processing device is If the storage means does not store the first identification information at the time the termination receiving means receives the input termination instruction, a deletion instruction means instructs the payment machine to delete the sales data. Furthermore, it is equipped with, The aforementioned payment machine is A deletion means that deletes the sales data processed by the second processing means in response to receiving a deletion instruction from the sales processing device. The product sales system according to claim 1, further comprising:

3. The storage means further stores a second identification information indicating that a settlement by the second settlement means is in progress. The aforementioned sales processing device is When the storage means stores the first identification information but does not store the second identification information, and the termination receiving means receives the input termination instruction, the guidance means provides guidance for payment of the amount at the payment machine, The product sales system according to claim 1, further comprising:

4. The aforementioned sales processing device is While the storage means is storing the first identification information and the second identification information, the invalidation means disables the acceptance of the input termination instruction by the termination reception means. The product sales system according to claim 3, further comprising:

5. The aforementioned sales processing device is When the termination receiving means has received the input termination instruction, the storage means has stored the first identification information, and the confirmation means confirms whether the payment method received by the first payment receiving means is a payment method that requires confirmation by a store employee. Furthermore, it is equipped with, If the confirmation means confirms that the payment method does not require confirmation by the store clerk, the instruction transmission means transmits the input completion instruction to the payment machine. The product sales system according to claim 1, wherein if the confirmation means confirms that the payment method requires confirmation by the store clerk, the first identification information is stored in the storage means, and then the first settlement means settles the transaction of the sales data processed by the first processing means in accordance with the payment method requiring confirmation by the store clerk.

6. A sales processing device that, together with an input device and a payment machine, constitutes a product sales system, A processing means for processing sales data of purchased products based on information about purchased products input via the aforementioned input device, Information transmission means for transmitting information relating to the purchased product, which has been input via the input device, to the payment machine. If the first payment receiving means of the input device has not received an input of a payment method selection at the time the termination receiving means of the input device receives an input termination instruction, a second payment receiving means accepts an input of a payment method selection via a device operated by the purchaser of the purchased goods. A first settlement means that settles the transaction of the sales data processed by the processing means in accordance with the payment method received by the first payment acceptance means or the second payment acceptance means, A storage means for storing first identification information indicating that settlement of the transaction is being performed by the first settlement means, When the termination receiving means has received the input termination instruction, the storage means has stored the first identification information, and the instruction transmitting means transmits the input termination instruction to the payment machine, If the termination receiving means has not stored the first identification information in the storage means at the time it receives the input termination instruction, a control means causes the first settlement means to execute settlement of the transaction. When the settlement of a transaction by the first settlement means is completed, the storage means transitions from a state in which it stores the first identification information to a state in which it does not store the information. A sales processing device equipped with the following.

7. The computer of the sales processing device, which constitutes the product sales system together with the input device and payment machine, A processing means that processes sales data of purchased products based on information about purchased products input via the aforementioned input device. Information transmission means for transmitting information relating to the purchased product, which has been input via the input device, to the payment machine. If the first payment receiving means of the input device has not yet received input for the selection of a payment method at the time the termination receiving means of the input device receives an input termination instruction, a second payment receiving means accepts input for the selection of a payment method via a device operated by the purchaser of the purchased goods. A first settlement means that settles the transaction of the sales data processed by the processing means in accordance with the payment method received by the first payment acceptance means or the second payment acceptance means. A storage means for storing first identification information indicating that the settlement of the transaction is being executed by the first settlement means, When the termination receiving means has received the input termination instruction, the storage means has stored the first identification information, and the instruction transmitting means transmits the input termination instruction to the payment machine. A control means that causes the first settlement means to settle the transaction if the storage means has not stored the first identification information at the time the termination receiving means receives the input termination instruction, and When the settlement of a transaction by the first settlement means is completed, the storage means transitions from a state in which it stores the first identification information to a state in which it does not store the information. A program designed to function as such.

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