Display processing device, transaction support device, and program

Abstract

To help a transaction support device to improve coping efficiency.SOLUTION: A display processor includes a communication unit and a display control unit. The communication unit receives signals related to events of a transaction support device. The display control unit displays an object indicating the transaction support device on the display based on the signals related to the events of the transaction support device. When displaying a plurality of objects indicating a plurality of transaction support devices on the display, the display control unit displays the plurality of objects on the display in a manner that a priority order of the plurality of transaction support devices can be identified based on the events of the plurality of transaction support devices.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0006] , , ,

[0005] , ,

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a display processing device, a transaction support device, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, in stores such as supermarkets, self-POS (Point Of Sales) terminals have attracted attention from the viewpoints of reducing labor costs and preventing the spread of infectious diseases. A self-POS terminal is a full-self-service device that allows customers to perform operations from product registration to settlement by themselves.

[0003] In stores that introduce a large number of self-POS terminals, the store staff has to monitor multiple self-POS terminals and handle events that occur at each self-POS terminal, such as calling staff.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a technique for assisting in improving the response efficiency of a transaction support device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] ​In one embodiment, the display processing device comprises a communication unit and a display control unit. The communication unit receives signals relating to events of trading support devices. The display control unit displays objects representing trading support devices on a display based on the signals relating to events of trading support devices. When the display control unit displays multiple objects representing multiple trading support devices on the display, it displays the multiple objects on the display in a manner that allows for the identification of the priority order of the multiple trading support devices based on events of the multiple trading support devices. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing a fully self-service checkout system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating a self-service POS terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating an attendant terminal according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of the display of the first image in a self-service POS terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of the display of a second image in a self-service POS terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows another example of the display of the second image in a self-service POS terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of the display in an attendant terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows another example of the display in the attendant terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows yet another display example in the attendant terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating the display processing in a self-service POS terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an example of display processing in an attendant terminal according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing another example of display processing in an attendant terminal according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same reference numerals are used for identical components whenever possible, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0009] (Example configuration) Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing a fully self-service checkout system 100. The checkout system 100 includes multiple self-service POS terminals 10, multiple cameras 20, and attendant terminals 30. The multiple self-service POS terminals 10, multiple cameras 20, and attendant terminals 30 are connected to each other via a network 40. For example, the network 40 consists of one or more networks from among various networks such as the Internet, a mobile communication network, and a LAN (Local Area Network). The one or more networks may include a wireless network or a wired network. Note that the checkout system 100 may also refer to a system that includes at least two electronic devices from among the multiple self-service POS terminals 10, multiple cameras 20, and attendant terminals 30.

[0010] Multiple self-service POS terminals 10 are electronic devices that allow customers to perform transactions from product registration to payment themselves. Electronic devices include computers. Multiple self-service POS terminals 10 are installed at the checkout counter of a store. Customers place products in a shopping basket or similar container in the sales area where the products are displayed, move to the checkout counter, and operate the self-service POS terminal 10 to perform transactions from product registration to payment. Product registration includes registering products as items to be purchased. A customer using the self-service POS terminal 10 is an example of a user of the self-service POS terminal 10. The self-service POS terminal 10 is an example of a transaction support device for assisting product transactions. The transaction support device is not limited to a device that allows customers to perform transactions from product registration to payment themselves, as exemplified by the self-service POS terminal 10. The transaction support device may be, for example, a product registration device that has at least the function of registering products. The transaction support device may be an accounting device that has at least the function of payment.

[0011] Multiple cameras 20 are electronic devices that have a shooting function and acquire captured image data based on the shooting. For example, the captured image is a moving image, but it may also be a still image. Camera 20 is an example of a shooting device that has a shooting function. Camera 20 may be a standalone device or a device mounted on a tablet terminal or smartphone. Multiple cameras 20 are installed at the checkout counter of a store.

[0012] Multiple cameras 20 capture images of the vicinity of multiple self-service POS terminals 10. Multiple cameras 20 include cameras 20 that capture customers using each of the multiple self-service POS terminals 10. One camera 20 may capture a customer using one self-service POS terminal 10, or multiple cameras 20 may capture a customer using one self-service POS terminal 10. For example, multiple cameras 20 include cameras 20 that capture the faces of customers using the self-service POS terminals 10. Multiple cameras 20 may also include cameras 20 that capture the hands of customers registering products using the self-service POS terminals 10. Multiple cameras 20 may also include cameras 20 that capture the faces of customers using the self-service POS terminals 10 and the hands of customers registering products.

[0013] The plurality of cameras 20 may include a camera 20 that photographs a merchandise storage area for returns associated with cancellation of registration after the registration of a product and before settlement. The merchandise storage area for returns associated with cancellation of registration may be determined for each self-POS terminal 10. The plurality of cameras 20 may include a camera 20 that photographs a merchandise storage area for returns after settlement. The merchandise storage area for returns after settlement may be determined for each self-POS terminal 10. The merchandise storage area for returns after settlement may be the same as or different from the merchandise storage area for returns associated with cancellation of registration.

[0014] Note that the camera 20 does not have to be separate from the self-POS terminal 10. The self-POS terminal 10 may include at least one camera 20.

[0015] The attendant terminal 30 is an electronic device that processes the display of information for handling events of the self-POS terminal 10. Events of the self-POS terminal 10 will be described later. The attendant terminal 30 is, for example, a PC (Personal Computer), a tablet terminal, or a smartphone, but is not limited thereto. The attendant terminal 30 may be installed inside the store or outside the store. In an example of installation inside the store, the location where the attendant terminal 30 is used may be the same sales floor as the self-POS terminal 10, or may be on a different floor of the same store, such as a back office, other than the same sales floor. In an example of installation outside the store, the location where the attendant terminal 30 is used may be a location separate from the store, such as a call center. An attendant uses the attendant terminal 30. An attendant includes store staff such as store clerks. The attendant who uses the attendant terminal 30 is an example of a user of the attendant terminal 30. Note that in FIG. 1, one attendant terminal 30 is shown, but a plurality of attendant terminals 30 may be connected to the network 40. The attendant terminal 30 is an example of a display processing device for processing the display of information. The attendant terminal 30 is an example of an electronic device different from the self-POS terminal 10.

[0016] A configuration example of the self-POS terminal 10 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the self-POS terminal 10. The self-POS terminal 10 includes a processor 101, a main memory 102, an auxiliary storage device 103, a communication interface 104, a display device 105, an input device 106, a card reader 107, a printer 108, a scanner 109, a cash processor 110, a speaker 111, and a microphone 112. Each part constituting the self-POS terminal 10 is connected so as to be able to input and output signals to and from each other. In FIG. 2, the interface is described as "I / F".

[0017] The processor 101 corresponds to the central part of the self-POS terminal 10. The processor 101 is an element constituting the computer of the self-POS terminal 10. For example, the processor 101 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit), but is not limited thereto. The processor 101 may be composed of various circuits. The processor 101 expands the program stored in the main memory 102 or the auxiliary storage device 103 into the main memory 102. The program is a program for realizing each part described later in the processor 101 of the self-POS terminal 10 and causing the processor 101 to execute the processing of each part. The processor 101 executes various processes by executing the program expanded in the main memory 102.

[0018] Main memory 102 corresponds to the main memory portion of the self-service POS terminal 10. Main memory 102 is an element that constitutes the computer of the self-service POS terminal 10. Main memory 102 includes non-volatile memory areas and volatile memory areas. In the non-volatile memory area of ​​main memory 102, the operating system or programs are stored. Main memory 102 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as needed by the processor 101. For example, main memory 102 includes ROM (Read Only Memory) as a non-volatile memory area. For example, main memory 102 includes RAM (Random Access Memory) as a volatile memory area.

[0019] The auxiliary storage device 103 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the self-service POS terminal 10. The auxiliary storage device 103 is an element that constitutes the computer of the self-service POS terminal 10. The auxiliary storage device 103 is an EEPROM (registered trademark) (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disc Drive), or SSD (Solid State Drive), etc. The auxiliary storage device 103 stores the above-mentioned program, data used by the processor 101 in performing various processes, and data generated by the processing performed by the processor 101.

[0020] The communication interface 104 includes various interfaces that enable the self-POS terminal 10 to communicate with other electronic devices via the network 40, in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0021] The display device 105 is a device capable of displaying various images under the control of the processor 101. For example, the display device 105 is a liquid crystal display or an EL (electroluminescence) display. The display device 105 includes a touch panel. The display device 105 is an example of a display.

[0022] The input device 106 is a device that can input instructions based on customer actions. The input device 106 may include button-type input keys. The input device 106 may also include a touch panel that can implement input keys.

[0023] The card reader 107 is a device that reads data recorded on a card medium. For example, the card medium may be a credit card, an electronic money card, or a loyalty card. The card reader 107 includes a device that reads data recorded on the magnetic stripe of a magnetic card. The card reader 107 also includes a device that reads data recorded on the IC chip of an IC (Integrated Circuit) card.

[0024] Printer 108 is a device for printing images onto a sheet. For example, printer 108 may be a thermal printer or a dot matrix printer.

[0025] Scanner 109 is a device that optically reads various code symbols, as illustrated below, and obtains information from the code symbols. For example, the code symbol may be a barcode symbol or a two-dimensional code symbol. The code symbol may also be a product code symbol that stores identification information that can identify a product. The product code symbol may also be an image attached to the product. The code symbol may also be a member code symbol that stores identification information that can identify a member. The member code symbol may be an image attached to a membership card or an image that can be displayed on a terminal such as a smartphone. The code symbol may also be a code symbol for code payment. Scanner 109 includes a scanner fixed to the self-service POS terminal 10. Scanner 109 also includes a scanner that can be held and moved by a customer.

[0026] The cash handling machine 110 is a device that handles cash. The cash handling machine 110 processes the banknotes or coins that are inserted. The cash handling machine 110 discharges banknotes or coins as change.

[0027] Speaker 111 is a device that can output sound under the control of the self-service POS terminal 10.

[0028] Microphone 112 is a device capable of receiving audio input.

[0029] The hardware configuration of the self-service POS terminal 10 is not limited to the configuration described above. The self-service POS terminal 10 allows for the omission and modification of the above-described components, as well as the addition of new components, as appropriate. At least one of the display device 105, input device 106, card reader 107, printer 108, scanner 109, cash handling machine 110, speaker 111, and microphone 112 may be separate from the self-service POS terminal 10.

[0030] The various components implemented in the aforementioned processor 101 will now be described. The processor 101 implements the detection unit 1011, the communication unit 1012, and the display control unit 1013. Each part implemented in the processor 101 can also be described as a function. Each part implemented in the processor 101 can also be described as being implemented in the control unit which includes the processor 101 and the main memory 102.

[0031] The detection unit 1011 detects an event at the self-service POS terminal 10. An event at the self-service POS terminal 10 is an event that occurs at the self-service POS terminal 10 and requires action by an attendant. Action by an attendant includes having an attendant take action.

[0032] Events at the self-service POS terminal 10 include events entered by the customer via the input device 106. In this example, the detection unit 1011 detects events at the self-service POS terminal 10 based on the customer's input of event instructions via the input device 106. Hereafter, events entered by the customer via the input device 106 will also be referred to as first events. Several examples of first events are given, but first events are not limited to these.

[0033] The first event may include a request for a call. A request for a call is a request for a call between a customer using the self-service POS terminal 10 and an attendant using the attendant terminal 30. A request for a call may be rephrased as a "request to call a store clerk" or a "request for assistance." The call is based on the communication of voice data between the self-service POS terminal 10 and the attendant terminal 30 via the network 40. In addition to voice, the call may also include the display of captured images based on captured image data. For example, the attendant's response to a request for a call is a call with the customer. The first event may also include a request for a return due to registration cancellation. For example, the attendant's response to a request for a return due to registration cancellation is the input of registration cancellation via a terminal such as the attendant terminal 30. The first event may also include a request for a return after payment. For example, the attendant's response to a request for a return after payment is the input of refund processing, etc., via a terminal such as the attendant terminal 30. This call request is initiated from the self-service POS terminal 10 when, for example, the customer touches an icon displayed on the screen that says "Call Staff" or a physically provided "Call Staff" button.

[0034] Events at the self-POS terminal 10 include events that occur autonomously on the self-POS terminal 10. In this example, the detection unit 1011 detects events at the self-POS terminal 10 based on the occurrence of events on the self-POS terminal 10. Hereafter, events that occur autonomously on the self-POS terminal 10 will also be referred to as second events. Second events are events that are not caused by customer input of events to the self-POS terminal 10 via the input device 106. Second events are events that occur autonomously on the self-POS terminal 10 despite the customer's correct use of the self-POS terminal 10. Several examples of second events are given, but second events are not limited to these.

[0035] The second event may include weight errors. A weight error, in this context, refers to an error that occurs despite the operator performing the correct operation. For example, an error occurs when the total weight of multiple identical items falls outside the weight range set based on the number of items. For example, consider registering five identical fruits. If the total weight of the five registered identical fruits falls outside the weight range set for the number of fruits (5), a weight error occurs. For example, an attendant's response to a weight error might be to input an error clearing command via a terminal such as the attendant terminal 30.

[0036] The second event may include the registration of age-restricted products. Age-restricted products are, for example, products that are prohibited from being sold to persons under the age of 20, often referred to as "20+ products." For example, 20+ products include alcohol or tobacco. For example, the attendant's handling of the registration of age-restricted products may involve the attendant verifying the customer's identity and then inputting permission for the registration of age-restricted products via a terminal such as the attendant terminal 30.

[0037] The second event may include the registration of products related to the Pharmaceutical Affairs Law. For example, products related to the Pharmaceutical Affairs Law are pharmaceuticals. The attendant's response to the registration of products related to the Pharmaceutical Affairs Law would include contacting the appropriate person according to the classification of the pharmaceutical that can determine whether or not to approve the registration of the product related to the Pharmaceutical Affairs Law.

[0038] The communication unit 1012 communicates with the attendant terminal 30 via the communication interface 104. Based on the detection of an event at the self-POS terminal 10 by the detection unit 1011, the communication unit 1012 transmits a signal related to the event at the self-POS terminal 10 to the attendant terminal 30. Hereinafter, the signal related to the event at the self-POS terminal 10 will also be referred to as the event signal. When the communication unit 1012 transmits a signal related to a call request to the attendant terminal 30, the communication unit 1012 receives a response to the call request signal from the attendant terminal 30. Hereinafter, the response will also be referred to as the response signal. The response signal may include a signal related to the start of a call. The signal related to the start of a call indicates that a call is to be started. The response signal may also include a signal related to putting the start of a call on hold. The signal related to putting the start of a call on hold indicates that the start of the call is to be put on hold.

[0039] The communication unit 1012 transmits audio data based on voice input via the microphone 112 of the self-service POS terminal 10 to the attendant terminal 30. The voice input via microphone 112 includes the customer's voice. The communication unit 1012 receives audio data based on voice input via the microphone 309 of the attendant terminal 30 shown in Figure 3 from the attendant terminal 30. The voice input via microphone 309 includes the attendant's voice. The communication unit 1012 receives captured image data acquired by the camera 307 of the attendant terminal 30 shown in Figure 3 from the attendant terminal 30. The captured image data acquired by camera 307 includes data such as the attendant's face. Note that this description explains an example in which the communication unit 1012 transmits signals, information, or data to the attendant terminal 30 and the communication unit 1012 receives signals, information, or data from the attendant terminal 30, but is not limited to this. The communication unit 1012 may exchange signals, information, or data with the attendant terminal 30 via a server connected between the self-service POS terminal 10 and the attendant terminal 30. In this example, the communication unit 1012 sends signals, information, or data addressed to the attendant terminal 30 to the server. The communication unit 1012 receives signals, information, or data from the server that were sent from the attendant terminal 30 to the POS terminal 10.

[0040] The display control unit 1013 displays a first image on the display device 105. The first image is an image of various stages in a transaction. Here, an example is given where the first image is an image at the product registration stage, but the first image may be an image at the accounting stage. The first image is an image that does not include a display area related to a call. Hereafter, the display area related to a call will also be called the call display area. The call display area is an area that displays images related to a call. The call display area displays different images depending on the status of the call. If the call status is "on call," the call display area displays an image of the call in progress. In one example, the image of the call in progress is a captured image based on captured image data acquired by the camera 307 of the attendant terminal 30. In this example, the call display area displays a real-time captured image including the attendant's face, etc. In another example, the image of the call in progress is an image of a character such as an avatar. If the call status is "on hold before starting a call," the call display area displays an image of the call on hold before starting a call. The "Call on Hold" image is displayed when a user's call is being held up because an attendant is assisting another user. For example, the "Call on Hold" image is a message indicating that the call is being held up by an attendant. The "Call on Hold" image may also be a message indicating that the call is being held up, such as "Please wait a moment" or "We are currently assisting X people." An example of the first image will be discussed later.

[0041] The display control unit 1013 displays a second image on the display device 105 based on the response signal. The second image is an image representing various stages in a transaction. Here, an example is described in which the second image is an image at the product registration stage, but the second image may be an image at the accounting stage. The second image is an image that transitions from the first image based on the response signal. The second image is an image that includes a call display area. An example of the second image will be described later.

[0042] This section describes an example configuration of the attendant terminal 30. Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating an attendant terminal 30. The attendant terminal 30 includes a processor 301, main memory 302, auxiliary storage device 303, communication interface 304, display device 305, input device 306, camera 307, speaker 308, and microphone 309. Each component of the attendant terminal 30 is connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In Figure 3, the interface is labeled "I / F".

[0043] The processor 301 is the central part of the attendant terminal 30. The processor 301 is an element that constitutes the computer of the attendant terminal 30. The processor 301 has the same hardware configuration as the processor 101 described above. The processor 301 loads the program stored in the main memory 302 or auxiliary storage device 303 into the main memory 302. The program is a program that implements the various parts described later in the processor 301 of the attendant terminal 30 and causes the processor 301 to execute the processing of each part. The processor 301 performs various processes by executing the program loaded into the main memory 302.

[0044] Main memory 302 corresponds to the main memory portion of the attendant terminal 30. Main memory 302 is an element that constitutes the computer of the attendant terminal 30. Main memory 302 has the same hardware configuration as main memory 102 described above. Main memory 302 stores the program described above.

[0045] The auxiliary storage device 303 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the attendant terminal 30. The auxiliary storage device 303 is an element that constitutes the computer of the attendant terminal 30. The auxiliary storage device 303 has the same hardware configuration as the auxiliary storage device 103 described above. The auxiliary storage device 303 stores the program described above.

[0046] The communication interface 304 includes various interfaces that enable the attendant terminal 30 to communicate with other electronic devices via the network 40, in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0047] The display device 305 is a device capable of displaying various images under the control of the processor 301. The display device 305 has the same hardware configuration as the display device 105 described above. The display device 305 is an example of a display.

[0048] The input device 306 is a device that can receive instructions based on the attendant's actions. The input device 306 has the same hardware configuration as the input device 106 described above.

[0049] Camera 307 is an electronic device that has a shooting function and acquires captured image data based on the shooting. Camera 307 is an example of a shooting device that has a shooting function. Camera 307 takes pictures of the face of the attendant using the attendant terminal 30.

[0050] Speaker 308 is a device that can output sound under the control of the attendant terminal 30.

[0051] The Microphone 309 is a device that can receive audio input.

[0052] The hardware configuration of the attendant terminal 30 is not limited to the configuration described above. The attendant terminal 30 may be modified or have its components omitted or changed as appropriate, and new components added. At least one of the display device 305, input device 306, camera 307, speaker 308, and microphone 309 may be separate from the attendant terminal 30.

[0053] The various components implemented in the aforementioned processor 301 will now be described. The processor 301 implements the communication unit 3011 and the display control unit 3012. Each part implemented in the processor 301 can also be called a function. Each part implemented in the processor 301 can also be said to be implemented in the control unit which includes the processor 301 and the main memory 302.

[0054] The communication unit 3011 communicates with each of the multiple self-service POS terminals 10 via the communication interface 304. The communication unit 3011 receives event signals from the self-service POS terminals 10. Based on the input of a response instruction from the attendant via the input device 306, the communication unit 3011 sends a response signal to the self-service POS terminals 10. A response instruction is an instruction to respond to a call request. In one example, the communication unit 3011 sends a call initiation signal to the self-service POS terminals 10 based on the input of a call initiation instruction from the attendant via the input device 306. A call initiation instruction is an instruction to start a call. In another example, the communication unit 3011 sends a call initiation hold signal to the self-service POS terminals 10 based on the input of a call initiation hold instruction from the attendant via the input device 306. A call initiation hold instruction is an instruction to put the call initiation on hold. The communication unit 3011 receives audio data from the self-service POS terminals 10 based on the voice input via the microphone 112 of the self-service POS terminals 10. The communication unit 3011 receives captured image data acquired by multiple cameras 20 via the communication interface 304. The communication unit 3011 transmits captured image data acquired by the camera 307 of the attendant terminal 30 to the self-POS terminal 10. The communication unit 3011 transmits voice data based on the voice input via the microphone 309 of the attendant terminal 30 to the self-POS terminal 10. Here, an example is described in which the communication unit 3011 transmits signals, information, or data to the POS terminal 10 and the communication unit 3011 receives signals, information, or data from the POS terminal 10, but it is not limited to this. The communication unit 3011 may also exchange signals, information, or data with the self-POS terminal 10 via a server connected between the self-POS terminal 10 and the attendant terminal 30. In this example, the communication unit 3011 transmits signals, information, or data addressed to the self-POS terminal 10 to the server. The communications unit 3011 receives signals, information, or data from the server that are intended for the attendant terminal 30 from the self-service POS terminal 10.

[0055] The display control unit 3012 displays an object representing a self-service POS terminal 10 on the display device 305 based on an event signal. Hereinafter, the object representing a self-service POS terminal 10 will also be referred to as a POS terminal object. Based on the event signals from each of the two or more self-service POS terminals 10, the display control unit 3012 displays two or more POS terminal objects representing the two or more self-service POS terminals 10 on the display device 305. The notation "two or more" may be read as "multiple". When the display control unit 3012 displays two or more POS terminal objects on the display device 305, it displays the two or more POS terminal objects on the display device 305 in a manner that allows the priority order of the two or more self-service POS terminals 10 to be identified based on the events of the two or more self-service POS terminals 10.

[0056] Priority is the order in which attendant action is required. Priority includes the highest priority in a hierarchy set according to the events at the self-service POS terminal 10. For example, the hierarchy is importance. Importance can be set appropriately based on various factors such as the importance or urgency of the event requiring attendant action and the efficiency of the attendant's action. As importance decreases, the impact on the customer's operation of the self-service POS terminal 10 decreases even if attendant action is postponed. Importance is explained using three levels as an example, from highest to lowest: "high," "medium," and "low," but the number of importance levels is not limited to these. For example, a request for a phone call is considered "high" in importance. A request for a phone call is an active request from the customer, and the attendant cannot understand the content of the customer's inquiry unless the call is initiated. Therefore, the importance of a request for a phone call is the highest. A weight error is considered "medium" in importance. Age-restricted products are considered "low" in importance. Registration of products related to the Pharmaceutical Affairs Law is considered "low" in importance. Requests for returns due to registration cancellation are classified as "low importance". Requests for returns after payment are classified as "low importance". The auxiliary storage device 303 may store data showing the relationship between events and importance on the self-service POS terminal 10. The data showing the relationship between events and importance on the self-service POS terminal 10 may be updated as needed. The priority order of multiple POS terminal objects of the same importance may include the order of the oldest reception time of the event signal by the communication unit 3011.

[0057] An embodiment that allows for the identification of the priority order of two or more self-service POS terminals 10 includes an embodiment that allows for the identification of the priority order by the arrangement of two or more POS terminal objects. The arrangement of two or more POS terminal objects includes the sequence of two or more POS terminal objects. In this example, the display control unit 3012 displays two or more POS terminal objects on the display device 305 in an arrangement based on events of the two or more self-service POS terminals 10. Note that an embodiment that allows for the identification of the priority order of two or more self-service POS terminals 10 is not limited to the arrangement of two or more POS terminal objects. An embodiment that allows for the identification of the priority order of two or more self-service POS terminals 10 may also include an embodiment that allows for the identification of the priority order by the appearance of two or more POS terminal objects, such as their color or size.

[0058] The POS terminal object contains various information. The POS terminal object may also contain identification information such as a name indicating the self-POS terminal 10 that transmitted the event signal to the attendant terminal 30. The POS terminal object may also contain the time of reception of the event signal by the communication unit 3011. The POS terminal object may also contain the importance of the event specified by the event signal. The POS terminal object may also contain the event specified by the event signal. The POS terminal object may contain input keys for inputting response instructions. The POS terminal object may also contain input keys for inputting a call start instruction as a response instruction. The POS terminal object may also contain input keys for inputting a call start / hold instruction as a response instruction. Whether or not the POS terminal object contains input keys for inputting response instructions may vary depending on the event specified by the event signal. This is because the need for the attendant to speak with the customer changes depending on the event at the self-POS terminal 10. If the event at the self-POS terminal 10 is a call request, the attendant needs to speak with the customer. In this example, the POS terminal object contains input keys for inputting response instructions. If the event at the self-service POS terminal 10 is a weight error, the attendant has little need to speak with the customer. In this example, the POS terminal object does not need to include input keys for entering response instructions. Note that the attendant terminal 30 may receive multiple event signals from a single self-service POS terminal 10 at the same or different times. In this example, the POS terminal object may include information for each event signal. The display control unit 3012 may set the priority order of the POS terminal objects based on the higher importance level among multiple importance levels for each event.

[0059] The display control unit 3012 displays the captured image related to the target self-service POS terminal. For example, the captured image related to the target self-service POS terminal is an image acquired by the camera 20 associated with the target self-service POS terminal. The display control unit 3012 displays the captured image on the same or a different display device as the display device 305 that displays the POS terminal object. The display control unit 3012 can display the captured image together with the POS terminal object on the display device 305. The display control unit 3012 can also display the captured image on a display device different from the display device 305 that is available to the attendant. Here, an example of the display control unit 3012 displaying the captured image on the display device 305 will be described.

[0060] The target self-POS terminal is the self-POS terminal 10 that is to be handled by the attendant. The target self-POS terminal is the self-POS terminal 10 selected from among two or more self-POS terminals 10 that display a POS terminal object. The target self-POS terminal is selected based on the input of a selection instruction for the target self-POS terminal by the attendant via the input device 306. The selection instruction for the target self-POS terminal may include the call initiation instruction described above. The camera 20 associated with the target self-POS terminal is one or more cameras 20 that capture the area associated with the target self-POS terminal. The camera 20 associated with the target self-POS terminal includes a camera 20 that captures the customer using the target self-POS terminal. The camera 20 associated with the target self-POS terminal includes a camera 20 that captures the area for returns associated with the cancellation of registration associated with the target self-POS terminal. The camera 20 associated with the target self-POS terminal includes a camera 20 that captures the area for returns after payment associated with the target self-POS terminal.

[0061] The display control unit 3012 erases the display of the POS terminal object based on the erase instruction input by the attendant via the input device 306. The erase instruction is an instruction to erase the display of the POS terminal object. Erasing includes transitioning from a displayed state to a hidden state. The erase instruction may also include a call termination instruction input by the attendant via the input device 306 after a call start instruction. The call termination instruction is an instruction to terminate a started call. In addition to erasing the POS terminal object, the erase instruction may also erase the captured image. In this example, the display control unit 3012 erases the display of the captured image based on the erase instruction input via the input device 306. The attendant can input an erase instruction for the POS terminal object indicating the handled self-POS terminal 10 via the input device 306.

[0062] (Example display) This section describes an example of image display on the self-service POS terminal 10. Let me explain the first image. The first image contains multiple display areas. Each display area is an area that displays common content. A display area may be an area with an explicitly displayed border, or it may be a virtual area without an explicitly displayed border.

[0063] Figure 4 shows an example of the display of the first image 51 on the self-service POS terminal 10. The display device 105 displays the first image 51. The first image 51 includes multiple display areas 601 to 606.

[0064] Display area 601 is an area for displaying a message to the customer. Display area 602 is an area for displaying the details of one or more registered products. The details may include the product name, quantity, and price. Display area 603 is an area for displaying the total quantity and total amount of one or more registered products. Display area 604 is an area for displaying input keys for entering instructions for requesting a call. Display area 605 is an area for displaying input keys for entering instructions to transition the image displayed on the display device 105 from the image at the registration stage to the image at the checkout stage. Display area 606 is an area for displaying one or more input keys for registering products that do not have a code symbol.

[0065] Let me explain the second image. In one example, the second image includes multiple display areas distinct from the call display area. The multiple display areas included in the second image are part of or all of the multiple display areas. The position and shape of each of the multiple display areas included in the second image are the same as the position and shape of the corresponding display area included in the first image. The second image is an image in which the call display area is superimposed on at least one of the multiple display areas included in the first image. The call display area may overlap with the entirety of at least one display area, or with a portion of at least one display area.

[0066] Figure 5 shows an example of the display of the second image 52 on the self-service POS terminal 10. The display device 105 displays the second image 52. The second image 52 includes multiple display areas 611-615 and a call display area 61.

[0067] Multiple display areas 611-615 correspond to multiple display areas 601-605, which are part of multiple display areas 601-606. Multiple display areas 611-615 display the same content as multiple display areas 601-605. The position and shape of each of the multiple display areas 611-615 are the same as the position and shape of each of the multiple display areas 601-605.

[0068] The second image 52 is an image in which the call display area 61 is superimposed on display area 606, one of the multiple display areas 601 to 606 contained in the first image 51. The call display area 61 overlaps with the entirety of display area 606 in the first image 51. In the second image 52, the call display area 61 becomes visible instead of display area 606. Note that the call display area 61 may be set to overlap with a portion of display area 606 in the first image 51. In this example, the second image 52 includes a portion of display area 606 that does not overlap with the call display area 61 in a visible manner.

[0069] The call display area 61 is superimposed on at least one display area, and this is not limited to that area. Preferably, the call display area 61 is superimposed on a display area that displays information of low necessity during a call with an attendant. A display area 606 that displays one or more input keys is an example of a display area that displays information of low necessity during a call with an attendant. A display area 612 that displays details displays information that the customer may refer to during a call with an attendant. A display area 612 that displays details is an example of a display area that displays information of high necessity.

[0070] In another example, the second image includes multiple display areas distinct from the call display area. The multiple display areas included in the second image are part of or all of the multiple display areas. The aspect of at least one of the multiple display areas included in the second image is different from the aspect of the corresponding display area included in the first image. The aspect of a display area may include at least one of position and shape. The second image is an image obtained by changing the aspect of at least one of the multiple display areas included in the first image. Changing the aspect of at least one display area includes changing the aspect of at least one display area to set up the call display area. For example, the call display area is an area set up so as not to overlap with the multiple display areas included in the second image. The call display area may overlap with a portion of the multiple display areas included in the second image. Changing the aspect of at least one display area includes shrinking at least one display area. Changing the aspect of at least one display area includes moving the position of at least one display area.

[0071] Figure 6 shows another example of the display of the second image 53 on the self-service POS terminal 10. The display device 105 displays the second image 53. The second image 53 includes multiple display areas 621-626 and a call display area 62.

[0072] Multiple display areas 621-626 correspond to all of the multiple display areas 601-606. Multiple display areas 621-626 display the same content as multiple display areas 601-606. The positions and shapes of each of the multiple display areas 621, 623-626 are the same as the positions and shapes of each of the multiple display areas 601, 603-605. The shape of display area 622 is a horizontally reduced version of the shape of display area 602, so the appearance of display area 622 is different from the appearance of display area 602. The second image 53 is an image in which the appearance of display area 602, one of the multiple display areas 601-606, has been changed. The call display area 62 is an area set in a region that is not included in any of the multiple display areas 621-626, which was created by reducing the display area from display area 602 to display area 622. In the second image 53, the call display area 62 becomes visible along with multiple display areas 621 to 626.

[0073] The first image 51, second image 52, and second image 53 shown in Figures 4 to 6 are examples of images at the product registration stage, but the display device 105 can similarly display the first or second image at the checkout stage. For example, the display device 105 displays the first image at the checkout stage based on the selection of the checkout button in the product registration stage image. The first image at the checkout stage includes a display of the total amount and payment amount, as well as an input key (icon) for "call a staff member" to input instructions for requesting a call. The display device 105 displays the second image at the checkout stage based on the selection of the "call a staff member" input key in the first image at the checkout stage. The second image at the checkout stage includes a display of the total amount and payment amount, as well as a call display area. The second image at the checkout stage is the image displayed when a return is requested after payment.

[0074] This section describes an example of how images are displayed on the attendant terminal 30. Figure 7 shows an example of the display on the attendant terminal 30. The display control unit 3012 displays three POS terminal objects 71 to 73 on the display device 305. POS terminal object 71 includes identification information "Self-POS terminal K". POS terminal object 71 includes reception time "16:40". POS terminal object 71 includes importance level "High". POS terminal object 71 includes event "Call for staff". Event "Call for staff" corresponds to a call request. POS terminal object 71 includes multiple input keys for inputting response instructions. POS terminal object 71 includes input key 81 for inputting a call start instruction as a response instruction. POS terminal object 71 includes input key 82 for inputting a call start / hold instruction as a response instruction. POS terminal objects 72 and 73 include various information similar to POS terminal object 71.

[0075] The importance level shown in POS terminal object 71 is higher than the importance levels shown in POS terminal objects 72 and 73. The importance levels shown in POS terminal object 72 and 73 are the same. The reception time shown in POS terminal object 72 is older than the reception time shown in POS terminal object 73. The priority order is "Self-POS terminal K" shown in POS terminal object 71, "Self-POS terminal B" shown in POS terminal object 72, and "Self-POS terminal R" shown in POS terminal object 73. The display control unit 3012 displays POS terminal objects 71, 72, and 73 on the display device 305 in this order, from left to right.

[0076] Figure 8 shows another example of the display on the attendant terminal 30. Figure 8 shows an example in which, in addition to the three POS terminal objects 71-73 shown in Figure 7, a POS terminal object 74 is displayed on the display device 305. The communication unit 3011 is assumed to have received the event signal from the self-POS terminal 10, which is identified as "Self-POS Terminal D". The displays of the three POS terminal objects 71-73 are assumed not to have been erased.

[0077] The display control unit 3012 updates the priority order of the four self-POS terminals 10 based on the acquisition of an event signal from "Self-POS Terminal D" by the communication unit 3011. The importance shown in POS terminal object 74 is lower than the importance shown in POS terminal object 71. The importance shown in POS terminal object 74 is higher than the importance shown in POS terminal objects 72 and 73. The priority order is "Self-POS Terminal K" shown in POS terminal object 71, "Self-POS Terminal D" shown in POS terminal object 74, "Self-POS Terminal B" shown in POS terminal object 72, and "Self-POS Terminal R" shown in POS terminal object 73. The display control unit 3012 displays POS terminal objects 71, 74, 72, and 73 on the display device 305 in this order from left to right.

[0078] Figure 9 shows yet another display example on the attendant terminal 30. The attendant is assumed to have entered a call commencement instruction via the input device 306 by selecting the input key 81 indicated on the POS terminal object 71. The target self-service POS terminal is "Self-service POS terminal K".

[0079] The communication unit 3011 receives captured image data acquired by the camera 20 associated with the "self-service POS terminal K". For example, the captured image data includes data such as the face of the customer using the "self-service POS terminal K". The display control unit 3012 displays the captured image 91 based on the captured image data acquired by the camera 20 associated with the "self-service POS terminal K" on the display device 305. The captured image 91 is a real-time image of the customer using the "self-service POS terminal K" during a call, including their face.

[0080] (Example of operation) Next, an example of the operation of the checkout system 100 configured as described above will be explained. Note that the processing procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, depending on the embodiment, steps in the processing procedure described below can be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate.

[0081] This section explains the operation of the self-service POS terminal 10. Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating the processing at the self-service POS terminal 10. The display device 105 is assumed to be displaying the first image.

[0082] The detection unit 1011 detects an event at the self-service POS terminal 10 (ACT1). Based on the detection of an event at the self-service POS terminal 10 by the detection unit 1011, the communication unit 1012 transmits an event signal to the attendant terminal 30 (ACT2). The communications unit 1012 receives a response signal from the attendant terminal 30 (ACT3).

[0083] The display control unit 1013 displays a second image on the display device 105 based on the response signal (ACT4). In ACT4, for example, the display control unit 1013 transitions the image displayed on the display device 105 from the first image to the second image based on the reception of the response signal by the communication unit 1012.

[0084] If the response signal is a signal related to putting a call on hold, the display control unit 1013 displays an image of the call on hold in the call display area. If the response signal is a signal related to starting a call, the display control unit 1013 displays an image of the call in progress in the call display area. During a call, the communication unit 1012 transmits audio data based on the voice input via the microphone 112 of the self-POS terminal 10 to the attendant terminal 30. During a call, the communication unit 1012 receives audio data from the attendant terminal 30 based on the voice input via the microphone 309 of the attendant terminal 30. The speaker 111 outputs audio based on the audio data received by the communication unit 1012. During a call, the communication unit 1012 may also receive captured image data acquired by the camera 307 of the attendant terminal 30 from the attendant terminal 30. The display control unit 1013 displays the captured image based on the captured image data received by the communication unit 1012 in the call display area.

[0085] In addition, the communication unit 1012 may receive a signal regarding the start of a call after receiving a signal regarding the holding of a call. In this example, the display control unit 1013 transitions the image displayed in the call display area from the image of the call being held to the image of the call in progress, based on the reception of the call start signal by the communication unit 1012.

[0086] The display control unit 1013 determines whether or not to terminate the call (ACT6). In ACT6, for example, the display control unit 1013 may decide to terminate the call based on a call termination instruction input by the customer via the input device 106. The display control unit 1013 may also decide to terminate the call based on the reception of a call termination signal from the attendant terminal 30 by the communication unit 1012. The call termination signal is a signal based on a call termination instruction input by the attendant via the input device 306. If the display control unit 1013 does not decide to terminate the call (ACT5, NO), it repeats the process of ACT5. If the display control unit 1013 decides to terminate the call (ACT5, YES), the process transitions from ACT5 to ACT6.

[0087] When the call is terminated, the display control unit 1013 displays the first image on the display device 105 (ACT7). In ACT7, for example, the display control unit 1013 transitions the image displayed on the display device 105 from the second image to the first image.

[0088] In addition, the event identified by the event signal transmitted to the attendant terminal 30 by the communication unit 1012 in ACT2 may not require a phone call. In this example, the processing of ACT3 to ACT6 may be omitted. The detection unit 1011 may also detect multiple events at the same or different timings. In this example, the processing of ACT1 to ACT2 is repeated multiple times.

[0089] This section explains the operation of the attendant terminal 30. Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an example of display processing in the attendant terminal 30. Each time the attendant terminal 30 receives an event signal, it performs the following example of processing.

[0090] The communication unit 3011 receives an event signal from the self-service POS terminal 10 (ACT11). The display control unit 3012 displays the POS terminal object on the display device 305 based on the event signal (ACT12). The case where the display device 305 does not display a POS terminal object will be described below. In this example, the only POS terminal objects to be displayed are new POS terminal objects based on the event signal received by the communication unit 3011. Based on the reception of the event signal by the communication unit 3011, the display control unit 3012 displays the new POS terminal object based on the event signal on the display device 305.

[0091] The case where the display device 305 is displaying one or more POS terminal objects will be described. In this example, the POS terminal objects to be displayed are two or more POS terminal objects, which are the sum of one or more POS terminal objects currently displayed on the display device 305 and new POS terminal objects based on event signals received by the communication unit 3011. Based on the reception of event signals by the communication unit 3011, the display control unit 3012 updates the priority order of two or more self-POS terminals 10, including the self-POS terminal 10 that is the source of the event signal. Based on the priority update, the display control unit 3012 displays two or more POS terminal objects, including the new POS terminal object, on the display device 305. The display control unit 3012 displays two or more POS terminal objects on the display device 305 in a manner that allows the priority order of the two or more self-POS terminals 10 to be identified. For example, the display control unit 3012 changes the order of the two or more POS terminal objects according to the priority order. The display control unit 3012 displays two or more POS terminal objects on the display device 305 in an order based on events of the two or more self-POS terminals 10.

[0092] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing another example of display processing in the attendant terminal 30.

[0093] The display control unit 3012 detects the selection of the target self-service POS terminal (ACT21). In ACT21, for example, the display control unit 3012 detects the selection of the target self-service POS terminal based on the input of a selection instruction for the target self-service POS terminal via the input device 306.

[0094] The display control unit 3012 displays the captured image on the display device 305 based on the captured image data acquired by the camera 20 associated with the target self-service POS terminal (ACT22). In ACT22, for example, the communication unit 3011 receives the captured image data acquired by the camera 20 associated with the target self-service POS terminal. The display control unit 3012 displays the captured image on the display device 305 based on the captured image data received by the communication unit 3011.

[0095] The display control unit 3012 may display on the display device 305 a captured image with shooting conditions corresponding to the event at the target self-service POS terminal. The shooting conditions are conditions related to shooting by the camera 20 that acquires the captured image data. The shooting conditions may also include the shooting range. The shooting range is the range that is photographed by the camera 20. The range that is photographed includes the object that is photographed. The shooting conditions may also include the shooting time. The shooting time is the timing at which the camera 20 takes the photograph. The timing at which the photograph is taken is a time of any length including real time or a specific point in the past. The shooting conditions may also be a combination of the shooting range and the shooting time.

[0096] This section describes the case where the event at the self-service POS terminal 10 is a request for "calling a store employee," i.e., a "phone call." The shooting range may include the face of the customer using the self-service POS terminal. The shooting time may be in real time. This allows the attendant to see the customer's face in real time and communicate with the customer appropriately.

[0097] This section describes the case where a weight error occurs at the self-service POS terminal 10. The shooting range may include the hands of the customer using the self-service POS terminal. The shooting time may be any length of time, including the time when the event signal is received by the attendant terminal 30 corresponding to the time the event occurred. This allows the attendant to appropriately determine whether or not the error needs to be cleared by checking the customer's hands at the time the weight error occurred.

[0098] This section describes the case where the event at the self-service POS terminal 10 is the registration of an age-restricted product. The shooting range may include the face of the customer using the self-service POS terminal. The shooting time may be in real time. This allows the attendant to appropriately determine whether permission for age-restricted product registration is necessary by confirming the face of the customer who registered the age-restricted product.

[0099] This section describes the case where the event at self-service POS terminal 10 is a request for a return due to registration cancellation. The shooting range may include the area where the returned items are stored for the self-service POS terminal associated with the registration cancellation. The shooting time may be in real time. This allows the attendant to check the status of the item storage area in real time and determine whether the customer has properly made the return due to registration cancellation.

[0100] This section describes the case where the event at the self-service POS terminal 10 is a request for a return after payment. The shooting range may include the area where the returned items are stored for post-payment items, which is associated with the self-service POS terminal in question. The shooting time may be in real time. This allows the attendant to check the status of the item storage area in real time and determine whether the customer has properly made the post-payment return.

[0101] If the shooting time is in real time, the display control unit 3012 displays the captured image on the display device 305 based on the real-time captured image data received by the communication unit 3011. If the shooting time is in the past, the display control unit 3012 displays the captured image on the display device 305 based on the captured image data from the past time received by the communication unit 3011. In this example, the auxiliary storage device 303 may store past captured image data received by the communication unit 3011.

[0102] During a call, the communication unit 3011 receives audio data from the self-POS terminal 10 based on the voice input via the microphone 112 of the self-POS terminal 10. The speaker 308 outputs audio based on the audio data received by the communication unit 3011. During a call, the communication unit 3011 transmits audio data to the self-POS terminal 10 based on the voice input via the microphone 309 of the attendant terminal 30. During a call, the communication unit 3011 may also transmit captured image data acquired by the camera 307 of the attendant terminal 30 to the self-POS terminal 10.

[0103] The display control unit 3012 determines whether or not to erase the POS terminal object related to the target self-service POS terminal (ACT23). In ACT23, for example, the display control unit 3012 may decide to erase the POS terminal object related to the target self-service POS terminal based on the input of an erase instruction via the input device 306. If the display control unit 1013 does not decide to erase the POS terminal object (ACT23, NO), it repeats the process of ACT23. If the display control unit 1013 decides to erase the POS terminal object (ACT23, YES), the process transitions from ACT23 to ACT24.

[0104] The display control unit 3012 erases the display of the captured image based on the input of an erase command via the input device 306 (ACT24). The display control unit 3012 erases the display of POS terminal objects related to the target self-service POS terminal based on the erase instruction input via the input device 306 (ACT25). The display control unit 3012 displays one or more POS terminal objects that continue to be displayed on the display device 305 so that the order is filled in to accommodate the erased POS terminal objects.

[0105] The embodiment may be configured as follows. [1] A communication unit that transmits a signal regarding a call request between a user of a trading support device and a user of an electronic device different from the trading support device, and receives a response to the signal regarding the call request, A display control unit that displays a first image on the display that does not include a display area related to the call, and displays a second image on the display that includes a display area related to the call based on the response, A trading support device equipped with the following features. [2] The first image described above includes multiple display areas, The second image is an image in which a display area related to the call is superimposed on at least one of the plurality of display areas. [1] The transaction support device described above. [3] The first image described above includes multiple display areas, The second image is an image in which the appearance of at least one of the plurality of display areas has been changed. [2] The transaction support device described above. [4] On the computer, A function for transmitting a signal regarding a call request between a user of a trading support device and a user of an electronic device different from the said trading support device, A function for receiving a response to a signal relating to the aforementioned call request, A function that displays a first image on the screen that does not include the call-related display area, Based on the response, a function to display a second image on the display including a display area related to the call, A program to execute.

[0106] (effect) The display processing device according to the embodiment receives signals related to events of trading support devices. Based on the signals related to events of trading support devices, the display processing device displays objects representing trading support devices on the display. When the display processing device displays multiple objects representing multiple trading support devices on the display, it displays the multiple objects on the display in a manner that allows the priority order of the multiple trading support devices to be identified based on the events of the multiple trading support devices. In this way, since the display processing device displays multiple objects in a manner that allows the priority order of the multiple trading support devices to be identified, the order in which actions need to be taken can be clearly displayed. Since the priority order of the multiple trading support devices is based on the events of the multiple trading support devices, the display processing device can display multiple objects in the order in which actions need to be taken. Since attendants can understand the order in which actions need to be taken for multiple trading support devices, they can efficiently take care of multiple trading support devices. It becomes possible for a small number of attendants to monitor a large number of trading support devices. As a result, the display processing device can support attendants in improving the efficiency of taking care of trading support devices.

[0107] The display processing device displays the multiple objects on the display in an order based on events from multiple transaction support devices. In this way, the display processing device arranges and displays multiple objects in order of priority for multiple transaction support devices, making it easy to understand the order in which to handle them.

[0108] The display processing device displays images related to a selected trading support device from among multiple trading support devices on the same or a different display. In this way, the display processing device can assist in handling the selected trading support device by displaying the captured image. By viewing the captured image, the attendant can appropriately address the event occurring in the trading support device. This allows the display processing device to improve the efficiency of the attendant in handling the trading support device.

[0109] The display processing device displays images captured under shooting conditions corresponding to the events of the selected trading support device. In this way, the display processing device can display captured images corresponding to the events required by the attendant. Since the attendant can see the captured images necessary to confirm the events in response to the trading support device, they can efficiently deal with the events in the trading support device.

[0110] The transaction support device according to the embodiment transmits a signal relating to a call request between a user of the transaction support device and a user of an electronic device different from the transaction support device. The transaction support device receives a response to the signal relating to the call request. The transaction support device displays a first image on the display that does not include a display area relating to the call. Based on the response, the transaction support device displays a second image on the display that includes a display area relating to the call. In this way, the display device allows attendants to communicate with customers while displaying a call-related information area. Attendants can address customer inquiries via telephone without having to go to the customer's location. This allows the display device to improve the efficiency of attendants in handling transaction support devices. Furthermore, since the display device switches the display of the call-related information area on or off, it does not impair the user experience of the transaction support device for customers. By displaying the call-related information area, the display device can show customers images of the attendant, etc., which can give customers a sense of security.

[0111] The first image includes multiple display areas. The second image is an image in which a display area related to a call is superimposed on at least one of the multiple display areas. In this way, the trading support device displays the call-related display area overlaid on the display area without changing the configuration of multiple display areas, thus enabling the display of the call-related display area without imposing a processing load. For example, the trading support device does not hide information that the customer might want to see during a call by overlaying the call-related display area on the display area that displays less necessary information during a call with an attendant. Therefore, the trading support device does not impair the user experience of the trading support device for the customer.

[0112] The first image includes multiple display areas. The second image is an image in which the appearance of at least one of the multiple display areas has been modified. In this way, the transaction support device can display the call-related display area without hiding any of the other display areas that were displayed before the call-related display area was displayed. Since the amount of information displayed on the transaction support device does not decrease significantly even when the call-related display area is displayed, customers can talk to the attendant while viewing the necessary information.

[0113] [Other embodiments] An example has been described in which the self-service POS terminal 10 displays a call-related display area on the display device 105, but it is not limited to this example. The display control unit 1013 may display the call-related display area on a display device different from the display device 105 that displays the first image. The display device different from the display device 105 is a display device available to the customer. The display device different from the display device 105 may be included in the self-service POS terminal 10, or it may be separate from the self-service POS terminal 10. In this example, the display control unit 1013 displays the call-related display area on a display device different from the display device 105 based on the reception of a response signal by the communication unit 1012. The display control unit 1013 does not need to transition the image displayed on the display device 105 from the first image to the second image based on the reception of a response signal by the communication unit 1012.

[0114] The transaction support device may be implemented as a single device, such as a self-service POS terminal 10, or as multiple devices with distributed functions. The display processing device may be implemented as a single device, such as an attendant terminal 30, or as multiple devices with distributed functions.

[0115] The program may be transferred while stored on an electronic device, or it may be transferred without being stored on an electronic device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or it may be transferred while recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium is a non-temporary, tangible medium. The recording medium is a computer-readable medium. The recording medium can be any medium that is capable of storing a program and is readable by a computer, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, and its form is not limited.

[0116] 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 in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. The following is an appendix to the claims as originally filed. (1) A communication unit that receives signals related to events in the trading support device, A display control unit that displays an object representing the trading support device on a display based on a signal relating to an event in the trading support device, Equipped with, When the display control unit displays multiple objects representing multiple trading support devices on the display, it displays the multiple objects on the display in a manner that allows it to identify the priority order of the multiple trading support devices based on the events of the multiple trading support devices. Display processing device. (2) The display processing apparatus according to (1), wherein the display control unit displays the plurality of objects on the display in an order based on events of the plurality of transaction support devices. (3) The display control unit displays the captured image related to the trading support device selected from among the plurality of trading support devices on the same or a different display as the display. (1) The display processing device described above. (4) The display control unit displays the captured image with shooting conditions corresponding to the event of the selected transaction support device, as described in (3). (5) On the computer, A function to receive signals related to events in the trading support device from the trading support device, A function to display an object representing the trading support device on a display based on signals related to events in the trading support device, Make it run, The display function, when displaying multiple objects representing multiple trading support devices on the display, displays the multiple objects on the display in a manner that allows for the identification of the priority order of the multiple trading support devices based on the events of the multiple trading support devices. program. [Explanation of symbols]

[0117] 10...Self-service POS terminal, 20...Camera, 30...Attendant terminal, 40...Network, 51...First image, 52...Second image, 53...Second image, 61...Call display area, 62...Call display area, 71-74...POS terminal object, 81...Input key, 82...Input key, 91...Captured image, 100...Checkout system, 101...Processor, 102...Main memory, 103...Auxiliary storage device, 104...Communication interface, 105...Display device, 106...Input device, 107...Card reader, 108...Printer, 109...Scanner, 110...Cash handling machine, 111...Speaker, 112...Microphone, 301...Processor, 302...Main memory, 303...Auxiliary storage device, 304...Communication interface, 305...Display device, 306...Input device, 307...Camera, 308...Speaker, 309...Microphone, 601~606...Display area, 611~615...Display area, 621~626...Display area, 1011...Detection unit, 1012...Communication unit, 1013...Display control unit, 3011...Communication unit, 3012...Display control unit.

Claims

1. A communication unit that receives signals related to events in the trading support device, A display control unit that displays an object representing the trading support device, including a key for initiating a call, on a display in a manner that can identify the priority of the event requiring action by an attendant, set according to the event of the trading support device, based on a signal relating to the event of the trading support device, A display processing device equipped with the following features.

2. If the event of the transaction support device is the event of the highest priority, the object includes a key for initiating the call. The display processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The event with the highest priority includes a request for a call, The display processing apparatus according to claim 1.

4. The object includes a key for putting the call on hold. The display processing apparatus according to claim 1.

5. On the computer, A function to receive signals related to events in the trading support device from the trading support device, A function to display an object representing the trading support device, including a key for initiating a call, on a display in a manner that allows for the identification of the priority level requiring action by an attendant, set according to the event of the trading support device, based on signals relating to the event of the trading support device; A program to execute.

Images