Payment device and program

Abstract

To provide assistance in appropriate handling related to a charge medium.SOLUTION: A POS terminal device includes reading means, operation accepting means, and notification means. The reading means reads medium information from a charge medium that performs settlement using a charge amount. The operation accepting means accepts a predetermined operation on a screen that appears following the reading of the medium information. The notification means performs notification indicating return of the charge medium at different timing in response to acceptance of the predetermined operation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in transactions at stores and the like, settlement is performed using various settlement types such as cash, credit cards, and charge media. A charge medium is a medium for performing settlement based on a charged amount, and for example, it is a prepaid card such as a transportation IC (Integrated Circuit). Customers who use a prepaid card appropriately check the remaining charge amount and charge the prepaid card.

[0003] For example, a prepaid card has a storage unit such as an IC chip or a magnetic stripe. In addition to a mode in which the charged amount is directly stored in the storage unit provided in the prepaid card, there is also a mode in which it is stored in an external server device in correspondence with the card identification information stored in the storage unit. Here, customers who use a prepaid card may forget to take the prepaid card when checking the remaining balance or charging the prepaid card.

[0004] As a related technology, in a system including a registration device for a store clerk to register goods and a settlement device for a customer to perform settlement, when a card used for settlement is taken out, the settlement device executes settlement processing using the card, and the registration device can select the settlement device for which the settlement processing has been executed as a transmission destination of registration data (for example, see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, with conventional technology, there was a problem in that customers could still forget to take the charging medium or leave the area in the middle of the operation if they missed the warning due to ambient noise, and thus could not handle the charging medium properly.

[0007] This invention has been made in view of these circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a technology that can support the proper handling of charging media. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the above-mentioned problems, a payment device according to one aspect of the present invention is a payment device characterized by comprising: a reading means for reading media information from a charge medium that makes a payment using a charged amount; an operation receiving means for receiving a predetermined operation on a screen that is accessed after the media information has been read; and a notification means for providing notification at different timings indicating the return of the charge medium in response to the acceptance of the predetermined operation.

[0009] To solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer to function as a payment device, characterized in that the computer functions as a reading means for reading media information from a charge medium used for payment using a charge amount, an operation receiving means for accepting a predetermined operation on a screen that is accessed after the media information has been read, and a notification means for providing notification at different timings indicating the return of the charge medium in response to the acceptance of the predetermined operation. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is an explanatory diagram showing the network configuration of a POS (Point of Sales) system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the installation of the POS terminal device 20. [Figure 3] This block diagram shows an example of the hardware configuration of a POS terminal device 20. [Figure 4] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a POS terminal device 20. [Figure 5] This is an explanatory diagram showing a series of charging screens that appear when charging begins while the device is in standby mode. [Figure 6] This is an explanatory diagram showing a series of charging screens that appear when charging begins while the device is in standby mode. [Figure 7] This is an explanatory diagram showing a series of charging screens that appear when a charge is made during the settlement process. [Figure 8] This flowchart shows an example of a charge process initiated by the POS terminal device 20 while it is in standby mode. [Figure 9] This flowchart shows an example of a charge process performed by the POS terminal device 20 during settlement. [Figure 10] This flowchart shows an example of a charge process performed by the POS terminal device 20 during settlement. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] (Embodiment) (Network configuration of POS system 1) Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the network configuration of a POS (Point of Sales) system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The POS system 1 is installed in various stores such as supermarkets, home centers, convenience stores, and general merchandise stores. The POS system 1 shown in Figure 1 comprises a store controller 10, a transaction status management device 11, and a POS terminal device 20. Each device is connected to communicate via LAN 55. Each device is a computer device equipped with a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), a communication unit, etc.

[0012] POS system 1 includes a charge management server Sv. The charge management server Sv is connected to the store controller 10 via a network. The charge management server Sv is a server device that manages the remaining balance charged to charging media such as prepaid cards and smartphones. The charge management server Sv manages the remaining balance for each customer (e.g., member customers). Prepaid cards are equipped with an IC (Integrated Circuit) chip or magnetic stripe that stores card identification information. Card identification information includes the card number and member number.

[0013] The charge management server Sv is equipped with a communication unit and communicates with the store controller 10, and also communicates with the transaction status management device 11 and the POS terminal device 20 via the store controller 10. Alternatively, the charge management server Sv may communicate directly with the POS terminal device 20 without going through the transaction status management device 11 or the store controller 10. Furthermore, a charge management server Sv may be provided for each company that manages prepaid cards, i.e., the number of servers corresponding to the number of companies managing prepaid cards may be provided.

[0014] The store controller 10 stores various information necessary for transactions, such as the product master. The product master is a file that stores product information such as product identification information (e.g., JAN (Japanese Article Number) code), product name, and sales price for each product. The product master also includes product identification information, product name, and unit price of products that require weighing (weighing target products). In addition to the product master, the store controller 10 also stores various other information such as inventory status, sales history, and deposit / withdrawal records. The store controller 10 may also store customer membership information.

[0015] The transaction status management device 11 is a device for a store clerk to monitor the POS terminal device 20. Specifically, the transaction status management device 11 can display the status (operation mode, processing status, etc.) of the POS terminal device 20 and control the POS terminal device 20. In the POS system 1, it is possible to arrange a store clerk at the transaction status management device 11 and have the store clerk monitor the POS terminal device 20.

[0016] The POS terminal device 20 is an example of a payment device. The POS terminal device 20 checks the balance of the charging medium and accepts charging. For example, the POS terminal device 20 queries the charging management server Sv about the charging balance and displays the charging balance. In addition, when the POS terminal device 20 performs charging on the charging medium, it transmits information for updating the charging balance to the charging management server Sv.

[0017] The POS terminal device 20 can operate in any one of a plurality of operation modes. The operation modes include, for example, the full self-service mode, the store clerk registration mode, and the accounting dedicated mode. The full self-service mode is a mode in which a customer registers goods (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "self-registration") on the device itself and the customer performs settlement (hereinafter referred to as "self-settlement") on the device itself. The store clerk registration mode is a mode in which a store clerk registers goods and a customer performs settlement (hereinafter referred to as "face-to-face settlement") face-to-face with the store clerk. The accounting dedicated mode is a mode for performing self-settlement. In the accounting dedicated mode, it receives settlement information transmitted from the POS terminal device 20 in the store clerk registration mode and performs settlement based on the settlement information.

[0018] In addition, the POS system 1 may include a store clerk terminal held by a store clerk. The store clerk terminal can display the status (operation mode, processing status, etc.) of the POS terminal device 20 and control the POS terminal device 20. In addition, the store clerk terminal can also receive information indicating that the store clerk is called from the POS terminal device 20 and notify the store clerk of the same.

[0019] (Example configuration of POS terminal device 20) Next, the configuration of the POS terminal device 20 will be explained using Figures 2 and 3. Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the installation of the POS terminal device 20. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the POS terminal device 20. In Figures 2 and 3, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0020] The following describes an example configuration of the POS terminal device 20 shown in Figure 3, with reference to Figure 2. The POS terminal device 20 includes a CPU 201, ROM 202, RAM 203, hard disk 204, customer-side display unit 205, customer-side scanner unit 206, card payment unit 208, change dispenser 209, employee-side display unit 210, key operation unit 211, employee-side scanner unit 212, printing unit 213, audio output unit 214, communication unit 215, and camera 216. These components can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0021] The CPU 201 is a central processing unit that controls the operation of the POS terminal device 20 by reading and executing various programs stored in the ROM 202. These programs include a charge program and a product sales data processing program related to product registration and settlement according to this embodiment. ROM202 is read-only memory that stores various types of information used by the CPU201, including programs.

[0022] RAM203 is a read-and-write memory that stores various types of information. For example, RAM203 stores information obtained from external sources (such as product master data obtained from the store controller 10) and information generated during processing. This information includes, for example, information generated during the registration process to register products and information generated during the settlement process to settle registered products.

[0023] The hard disk 204 stores various types of information. For example, the hard disk 204 stores the imaging results (e.g., video) captured by the camera 216. The hard disk 204 may store various programs executed by the CPU 201 instead of the ROM 202. Alternatively, it may store information acquired from external sources or information generated during processing instead of the RAM 203.

[0024] The customer-side display unit 205 is a touch display for customers. The customer-side display unit 205 displays various information to the customer and accepts various inputs from the customer. The customer-side display unit 205 can display the remaining balance of a prepaid card and accept operations related to charging the prepaid card. In full self-service mode, the customer-side display unit 205 displays a preset key (a button to order a product) corresponding to a product, and accepts product registration when the preset key is operated (pressed).

[0025] The customer-side scanner unit 206 is a scanner unit for customers and optically reads various codes. These codes include barcodes (product codes) attached to products, as well as codes (barcodes, 2D codes, etc.) printed on gift certificates (vouchers and coupons), membership cards, point cards, etc.

[0026] The card payment unit 208 is a payment mechanism for various types of cards. These types of cards include prepaid cards, credit cards, and point cards. Prepaid cards are chargeable media that can be used for electronic money (charge balance). Prepaid cards include transportation cards usable on public transport and store cards usable at affiliated stores, etc. The card payment unit 208 includes a card insertion unit and a card reading unit. The card insertion unit is equipped with a sensor that detects the presence or absence of a prepaid card, and detects when a prepaid card has been inserted or removed. The change dispenser 209 is a cash payment mechanism and has slots for inserting banknotes and coins, and slots for dispensing banknotes and coins. The change dispenser 209 calculates the amount to be inserted into the slot, calculates the change amount which is the difference between the inserted amount and the purchase amount, and dispenses the change from the dispensing slot. The change dispenser 209 is facing the customer and accepts various operations and cash insertions from the customer. The change dispenser 209 also has a sensor that detects banknotes and coins inserted into the slot. This sensor detects that banknotes and coins have been inserted into the slot, and also detects the number of items of each denomination. The change dispenser 209 can also accept cash to be charged to a prepaid card.

[0027] The employee-side display unit 210 is a touch display for employees. The employee-side display unit 210 displays various information to employees and accepts various inputs from them. The employee-side display unit 210 displays preset keys corresponding to products. When a preset key is pressed, the employee-side display unit 210 accepts the registration of the product corresponding to that preset key.

[0028] The key operation unit 211 is equipped with various keys (hardware keys, buttons). The key operation unit 211 receives various inputs from store staff. The key operation unit 211 includes keys corresponding to products. When a key is pressed by a store staff member, the key operation unit 211 registers the product corresponding to that key. The key operation unit 211 also includes a mode switching button and accepts switching of the operating mode.

[0029] The employee-side scanner unit 212 is a scanner unit for employees and optically reads various types of information. For example, the employee-side scanner unit 212 optically reads barcodes attached to products and employee codes attached to employee name tags. The employee-side scanner unit 212 can also read codes printed on gift certificates and various cards.

[0030] The printing unit 213 prints and outputs receipts. These receipts include invoices issued when a payment is made and charge slips issued when a charge is made. The audio output unit 214 outputs sound. For example, the audio output unit 214 outputs voice guidance and warning sounds. Voice guidance and warning sounds include, for example, voices related to product registration and payment operations, and voices related to charging operations. The communication unit 215 is an interface for sending and receiving information with other devices (store controller 10, transaction status management device 11, and other POS terminal devices 20).

[0031] Camera 216 is mounted to the upper right of the customer-side display unit 205, as viewed from the customer's perspective. Camera 216 continuously captures video or still images. Camera 216 can be a CCD (charge coupled device) camera or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) camera. Camera 216 captures various operations performed by the customer. These operations include those performed during registration, payment, and charging. For example, camera 216 captures images of the inside of the shopping basket (products) and the customer's actions during registration. Camera 216 also captures images of the customer's actions during payment and charging. Specifically, camera 216 captures images of banknotes and coins held by the customer, the change machine 209, and hand movements.

[0032] The sign pole 220 (see Figure 2) is equipped with a light-emitting part such as an LED (light-emitting diode) and illuminates in a predetermined color and in a predetermined lighting pattern. Depending on the lighting pattern, the sign pole 220 can indicate that the POS terminal device 20 is in use or to notify of an abnormality. Furthermore, the sign pole 220 is installed at the very top of the POS terminal device 20, making it possible for store employees who are not close to the POS terminal device 20 to recognize the lighting pattern.

[0033] (Functional configuration of POS terminal device 20) In the case of prepaid cards, in addition to customers forgetting to take their cards, unintended charges by subsequent customers could occur. Let's explain this with an example. For example, in the case of a prepaid card whose balance is managed by a charge management server Sv, the POS terminal 20 reads the card information of the prepaid card, queries the charge management server Sv for the balance based on the card information, and displays the balance. The screen that displays the balance is, for example, a screen that accepts the specification of the balance or charge amount (for example, the amount confirmation screen 530 in Figure 5(C) described later).

[0034] In particular, some POS terminals 20 would read the card information of a prepaid card, display a confirmation screen 530, and immediately eject the prepaid card. For example, some POS terminals 20 would continue to display the confirmation screen 530 until the customer requested that it be closed, regardless of whether a charge was made or not. In such POS terminals 20, if a customer leaves while the confirmation screen 530 is still displayed, the confirmation screen 530 becomes viewable by the next customer. Furthermore, if the next customer were to deposit money according to the display on the confirmation screen 530, they would unintentionally charge the previous customer's prepaid card. As a result, customers were sometimes unable to handle their prepaid cards properly.

[0035] Therefore, this embodiment provides support for the proper handling of prepaid cards. The functional configuration of the POS terminal device 20 according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to Figure 4.

[0036] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the POS terminal device 20. The POS terminal device 20 described below will be described as operating in a dedicated accounting mode. In Figure 4, the POS terminal device 20 includes a reading unit 401, an operation reception unit 402, a notification unit 403, a settlement unit 404, and a change reception unit 405. Each functional unit is realized by the CPU 201 of the POS terminal device 20. That is, the CPU 201 of the POS terminal device 20 realizes the function of each functional unit by executing a predetermined program (such as a charge program). In the following, each functional unit shown in Figure 4 will be described with reference to the display screens shown in Figures 5 to 7.

[0037] In the payment-only mode, the POS terminal device 20 can be in either a standby state (no payment being made) or a payment-in-progress state (payment being made). Charging to the charging medium can be initiated in either the standby or payment-in-progress state. First, we will explain charging initiated in the standby state.

[0038] The reading unit 401 reads the media information of the charging medium. The charging medium is, for example, a contact-type prepaid card. The prepaid card stores card identification information that identifies the prepaid card as media information. The charging medium is, for example, an IC card or a magnetic card. The remaining balance is managed by the charge management server Sv. The reading unit 401 is a contact-type reader that reads the card information of a prepaid card inserted into the card insertion slot.

[0039] The charging medium includes contactless charging mediums. Contactless charging mediums include, for example, contactless cards (IC cards) and mobile terminal devices such as smartphones. In the case of contactless charging mediums, medium information such as the remaining charge amount is directly stored in a memory unit such as an IC chip built into the contactless charging medium. The reading unit 401 includes contactless readers in addition to contact-type readers. Contactless readers can read the remaining charge amount information when a customer holds a contactless charging medium over them.

[0040] Figures 5 and 6 are explanatory diagrams showing a series of charging screens when charging is initiated while the device is in standby mode. Note that the screens in Figures 5 and 6 described below include examples of multiple charging screens that transition depending on the operation related to charging the charging medium.

[0041] Figure 5(A) shows the standby screen 510 in the accounting-only mode. The standby screen 510 indicates the accounting-only mode and that the system is in standby mode. The standby screen 510 includes a charge button 511. The charge button 511 accepts the display of the remaining charge amount and the start of the charge procedure. Since the charge button 511 accepts the display of the remaining charge amount and the start of the charge procedure with a single button operation, the display area on the standby screen 510 can be simplified. However, the display of the remaining charge amount and the start of the charge procedure may be accepted by separate buttons. That is, the POS terminal device 20 may display the remaining charge amount in response to the press of the button that accepts the display of the remaining charge amount, and display a screen for performing the charge procedure in response to the press of the button that accepts the start of the charge procedure. This allows the screen desired by the customer to be displayed with simple operation.

[0042] Customers using a prepaid card press the charge button 511 on the standby screen 510 to check their remaining balance, etc. When the charge button 511 is pressed, the screen transitions to the card insertion prompt screen 520 shown in Figure 5(B).

[0043] Figure 5(B) shows the card insertion prompt screen 520. The card insertion prompt screen 520 prompts the user to insert a prepaid card into the card payment unit 208 (card insertion unit). The card insertion prompt screen 520 also includes a cancel button 521. The cancel button 521 is a button that accepts the cancellation of the balance inquiry (a button that cancels card insertion). When the cancel button 521 is pressed on the card insertion prompt screen 520, the user returns to the waiting screen 510 shown in Figure 5(A). When a prepaid card is inserted into the card insertion unit on the card insertion prompt screen 520, the user transitions to the amount confirmation screen 530 shown in Figure 5(C).

[0044] Figure 5(C) shows the amount confirmation screen 530. The amount confirmation screen 530 includes a balance display 531, an amount selection button 532, and a cancel button 533. The balance display 531 shows the remaining balance of the prepaid card. The remaining balance shown in the balance display 531 is obtained based on the media information (card identification information) read by the reader unit 401. The customer's (member's) name and membership number may also be displayed on the amount confirmation screen 530.

[0045] The amount specification button 532 is a button that accepts the specification of the amount to be charged. When the amount specification button 532 (for example, the "1000 yen" button) is pressed, the system transitions to the deposit acceptance screen 610 shown in Figure 6(A). The cancellation button 533 is a button that accepts the cancellation of the charge, or the termination (cancellation) of the balance inquiry. When the cancellation button 533 is pressed, the prepaid card is ejected from the card payment unit 208 (card insertion unit), and the return notification 540 shown in Figure 5(D) is displayed.

[0046] In Figure 5(D), the return notification 540 is a pop-up display superimposed on the amount confirmation screen 530. The return notification 540 indicates that the prepaid card has been returned and prompts the user to remove the prepaid card. The return notification 540 is displayed until the prepaid card is removed from the card slot. Once the prepaid card is removed from the card slot, the return notification 540 is cleared and the system returns to the standby screen 510 shown in Figure 5(A).

[0047] Figure 6(A) shows the deposit acceptance screen 610. The deposit acceptance screen 610 displays a notification prompting the customer to insert the specified charge amount into the change machine 209. The deposit acceptance screen 610 includes a customer information display 611, a specified charge amount display 612, an insertion amount display 613, and a cancel button 614. The customer information display 611 includes the member name, member number, and remaining charge amount. This allows the customer to confirm that the member name is correct and to check the remaining balance on the deposit acceptance screen 610.

[0048] The specified charge amount display 612 shows the charge amount (1000 yen) accepted by the amount specification button 532 on the amount confirmation screen 530 in Figure 5(C). The inserted amount display 613 is an area that shows the inserted amount, and in the illustration it shows "0 yen". The cancel button 614 is a button that accepts the cancellation of the charge. When the cancel button 614 is pressed, the prepaid card is ejected from the deposit acceptance screen 610, and the return notification 540 (Figure 5(D)) is displayed overlaid on it.

[0049] When the cancel button 614 is pressed, the system may not only display the return notification 540, but also return to the previous screen (the amount confirmation screen 530 in Figure 5(C)). When the specified charge amount is deposited into the deposit acceptance screen 610, the system transitions to the amount confirmation screen 620 shown in Figure 6(B).

[0050] Figure 6(B) shows the amount confirmation screen 620. On the amount confirmation screen 620, the inserted amount display 613 shows "1000 yen," indicating that 1000 yen in cash has been inserted. The amount confirmation screen 620 includes a charge confirmation button 621. The charge confirmation button 621 is a button that accepts confirmation of the charge based on the information shown in the specified charge amount display 612 and the inserted amount display 613.

[0051] Furthermore, the amount confirmation screen 620 is designed to prevent the cancellation button 614 shown in Figure 6(A) from being displayed, meaning that refunds after deposit are not permitted. This is because, if refunds were permitted, for example, a customer might deposit a 5,000 yen bill, but due to the customer's intentional actions or misunderstanding, claim, "I deposited a 10,000 yen bill, but only 5,000 yen was refunded," potentially leading to financial disputes. In this embodiment, the amount confirmation screen 620 prevents such financial disputes by not displaying the cancellation button 614 shown in Figure 6(A).

[0052] When the charge confirmation button 621 is pressed, the return notification 630 shown in Figure 6(C) is displayed, and the prepaid card is ejected.

[0053] In Figure 6(C), the return notification 630 is a pop-up display superimposed on the amount confirmation screen 620. The return notification 630 indicates that the prepaid card has been returned and prompts the user to remove the prepaid card. The return notification 630 is displayed until the prepaid card is removed from the card slot. Once the prepaid card is removed from the card slot, the return notification 630 is cleared and the system transitions to the charge completion screen 640 shown in Figure 6(D).

[0054] Figure 6(D) shows the charge completion screen 640. The charge completion screen 640 indicates that the charge is complete and a receipt (charge slip) will be issued. On the charge completion screen 640, the charge balance displayed in the customer information display 611 shows the amount (¥1287) which is the amount added to the charged amount (¥1000). On the charge completion screen 640, once the charge slip is removed, the screen returns to the waiting screen 510 shown in Figure 5(A). Note that the conditions for returning to the waiting screen 510 are not limited to the removal of the charge slip; they may also include pressing the end button 641 or the elapsed time.

[0055] Thus, in this embodiment, it is possible to start charging while the system is in standby mode for payment only. Furthermore, by displaying the customer information display 611 on each of the screens shown in Figures 6(A) to 6(D), the customer can also check their member name and remaining balance on a series of screens.

[0056] (Regarding the functional configuration for performing the screen transitions shown in Figures 5 and 6) In Figure 4, the operation reception unit 402 accepts predetermined operations related to the execution of a charge on each of the multiple charge screens to which the user transitions after the card identification information has been read. An example of the multiple charge screens is listed below. • Figure 5(C) shows the amount confirmation screen 530. • The payment acceptance screen 610 in Figure 6(A). • Figure 6(B) shows the amount confirmation screen 620.

[0057] The prescribed operations include a cancellation operation to stop charging and a charging operation to start charging. An example of the prescribed operations is listed below. • Pressing the cancel button 533 on the amount confirmation screen 530 in Figure 5(C) (cancellation operation). • Pressing the Cancel button 614 on the payment acceptance screen 610 in Figure 6(A) (cancellation operation). • Pressing the charge confirmation button 621 on the amount confirmation screen 620 in Figure 6(B) (completion operation of the charge operation).

[0058] Pressing the Cancel button 533 includes the operation of ending the check of the prepaid card's remaining balance and the operation of canceling the charge. The Cancel button 533 is not limited to accepting the end of the check of the remaining balance and the cancellation of the charge with a single button; it may also accept them with separate buttons. That is, the POS terminal device 20 may display separate buttons for accepting the end of the check of the remaining balance and for accepting the cancellation of the charge. Pressing the cancel button 614 includes the operation of canceling the charge. Pressing the charge confirmation button 621 completes the charge process.

[0059] Furthermore, the charge operation is not limited to the completion operation by pressing the charge confirmation button 621, but may also be a decision operation to determine the charge amount or a deposit operation related to the deposit in the charge, as shown in (1) or (2) below. (1) Decision operation: For example, pressing the amount specification button 532 on the amount confirmation screen 530 in Figure 5(C). (2) Deposit operation: For example, the operation of entering the specified charge amount on the deposit acceptance screen 610 in Figure 6(A).

[0060] The POS terminal device 20 ejects a prepaid card at a timing corresponding to the acceptance of a predetermined operation. The notification unit 403 also makes a notification (return notification) indicating the return of the prepaid card at a different timing corresponding to the acceptance of a predetermined operation. Specifically, the notification unit 403 makes a return notification indicating the return of the prepaid card at a timing corresponding to the acceptance of a predetermined operation, that is, at the time the prepaid card is ejected. The return notification is specifically the return notification 540 in Figure 5(D) and the return notification 630 in Figure 6(C). The return notifications 540 and 630 may include a warning sound or an audio notification. The timing of the return notifications 540 and 630 is the timing when the predetermined operation is accepted, but it is not limited to this, and may be a few seconds after the timing when the predetermined operation is accepted.

[0061] The notification unit 403 continues the return notifications 540 and 630 until the ejected prepaid card is removed, and terminates the return notifications 540 and 630 once the prepaid card is removed. Specifically, the notification unit 403 terminates the return notifications 540 and 630 when the sensor in the card insertion section detects that the prepaid card has been removed. The POS terminal device 20 may prevent the user from proceeding to the next screen until the prepaid card is removed, that is, while the return notifications 540 and 630 are being issued.

[0062] Thus, the POS terminal device 20 according to this embodiment does not immediately eject the prepaid card after reading the card information of the prepaid card, but ejects the prepaid card at a timing corresponding to the customer's operation and performs return notifications 540 and 630.

[0063] Furthermore, if the charge operation is a confirmation operation as described in (1) above (i.e., pressing the amount specification button 532), the notification unit 403 should issue a return notification at the timing corresponding to the pressing of the amount specification button 532. Also, if the charge operation is a deposit operation as described in (2) above (i.e., an operation to insert the charge amount), the notification unit 403 should display a return notification 630 at the timing corresponding to the insertion of the charge amount. The timing corresponding to the insertion of the charge amount may be the timing when the first coin is inserted when multiple coins are inserted, or it may be the timing when an amount equal to or greater than the amount indicated by the specified charge amount display 612 is inserted.

[0064] In this way, the POS terminal device 20 can eject the prepaid card and notify the customer of its return at a timing corresponding to the customer's operation.

[0065] (Regarding the series of charging screens that appear when a charge is made during the settlement process) Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a series of charging screens when charging is performed during settlement. Note that each screen in Figure 7, as described below, is an example of multiple charging screens that transition depending on the operation related to charging the charging medium. Figure 7(A) shows the payment type selection screen 710 that is displayed when settlement information is received from the POS terminal device 20 in employee registration mode. The payment type selection screen 710 is a screen that is displayed based on the settlement information received in the standby screen 510 of Figure 5(A).

[0066] The payment method selection screen 710 includes a payment amount display 711 and a payment method selection button 712. The payment amount display 711 shows the total payment amount to be paid by the customer (for example, 587 yen). The payment method selection button 712 is a button that accepts the selection of one of the following: "cash," "credit card," "IC card," and "code payment." Note that "IC card" refers to payment using a charging medium. The notation for "IC card" may also be simply "IC" or "charging medium." "Code payment" refers to payment using a QR code (registered trademark) for settlement displayed on a smartphone, for example.

[0067] When "IC card" is selected on the payment type selection screen 710, the system transitions to the card insertion prompt screen 520 shown in Figure 5(B). The system then accepts the insertion of a prepaid card from the customer. Here, the remaining balance on the prepaid card accepted by the customer on the card insertion prompt screen 520 is assumed to be 287 yen. In other words, the remaining balance (287 yen) is insufficient to meet the payment amount displayed on the payment amount display 711 (587 yen). Therefore, after transitioning to the card insertion prompt screen 520, the POS terminal 20 transitions to the amount confirmation screen 530 shown in Figure 5(C) to allow the customer to perform the charging procedure.

[0068] Furthermore, the system may be configured to proceed to the amount confirmation screen 530 regardless of whether the remaining balance (287 yen) is insufficient to meet the payment amount displayed on the payment amount display 711 (587 yen). Alternatively, a button to accept the charge may be displayed on the payment type selection screen 710, and pressing this button may initiate the insertion of the prepaid card and proceed to the amount confirmation screen 530.

[0069] Now, let's assume that the Cancel button 533 is pressed on the amount confirmation screen 530 shown in Figure 5(C). In this case, the prepaid card will not be ejected and the return notification will not be made, and the user will return to the payment type selection screen 710. The ejection and return notification of the prepaid card will be made when the settlement is completed. If the amount specification button 532 (for example, the "1000 yen" button) is pressed on the amount confirmation screen 530, the user will transition to the deposit acceptance screen 610 shown in Figure 6(A).

[0070] Furthermore, suppose the Cancel button 614 is pressed on the deposit acceptance screen 610. In this case as well, the prepaid card will not be ejected and the return notification will not be made, and the user will return to the payment type selection screen 710. The ejection and return notification of the prepaid card will be made when the settlement is completed. When the specified charge amount in cash is inserted on the deposit acceptance screen 610, the user will transition to the amount confirmation screen 620 shown in Figure 6(B).

[0071] Then, when the charge confirmation button 621 is pressed on the amount confirmation screen 620, the POS terminal device 20 completes the settlement taking into account the charge amount and transitions to the settlement completion screen 730, which includes the return notification 720 shown in Figure 7(B).

[0072] In Figure 7(B), the return notification 720 is a pop-up display superimposed on the settlement completion screen 730, which will be described later. The return notification 720 indicates that the prepaid card has been returned upon completion of settlement and prompts the user to remove the prepaid card. The return notification 720 remains displayed until the prepaid card is removed from the card slot.

[0073] In this embodiment, in order to simplify operation, the charge confirmation button 621 is used to complete the settlement and display the return notification 720. Here, in the case of a charge in the process of settlement, the condition for displaying the return notification 720 is the completion of the settlement, not the confirmation of the charge. For this reason, for example, in the amount confirmation screen 620 shown in Figure 6(B), when the charge confirmation button 621 is pressed, a settlement start button (not shown) that accepts the start of settlement with the remaining balance after the charge is completed may be displayed separately, and when the settlement start button is pressed, the settlement is completed and the return notification 720 is displayed.

[0074] When the prepaid card is removed from the card slot in the return notification 720, the return notification 720 is cleared, and the system transitions to the settlement completion screen 730 shown in Figure 7(C). Figure 7(C) shows the settlement completion screen 730. The settlement completion screen 730 shows that payment has been completed because "1000 yen" has been charged. In the customer information display 611 of the settlement completion screen 730, the remaining balance after settlement is shown as "700 yen". This remaining balance is the sum of the charged amount "1000 yen" and the remaining balance before settlement "287 yen" ("1287 yen") minus the payment amount "587 yen". When the receipt is taken out of the settlement completion screen 730, or after a predetermined time has elapsed, the screen returns to the waiting screen 510 shown in Figure 5(A).

[0075] (Regarding the functional configuration for performing the screen transitions shown in Figures 7(A) to 7(C)) In Figure 4, the settlement unit 404 performs settlement based on the settlement information. The settlement information is obtained by being transmitted from the POS terminal device 20 in employee registration mode. However, the settlement information is not limited to this, and may also be obtained by reading a code (2D code) printed on a predetermined medium (paper or electronic medium).

[0076] The operation reception unit 402 accepts a predetermined operation on one of the multiple charge screens displayed during settlement performed by the settlement unit 404. The multiple charge screens are as described above. • Figure 5(C) shows the amount confirmation screen 530. • The payment acceptance screen 610 in Figure 6(A). • Figure 6(B) shows the amount confirmation screen 620.

[0077] Furthermore, the prescribed operations are as described above, as follows: • Cancel button 533 in Figure 5(C). • Cancel button 614 in Figure 6(A). • Charge confirmation button 621 in Figure 6(B).

[0078] When settlement begins, the notification unit 403 issues a return notification 740 at a time different from the time it received the prescribed operation.

[0079] (Examples of other timings) Other timings include, for example, the timing corresponding to the completion of settlement. The timing corresponding to the completion of settlement is, for example, the timing when the settlement is completed. In other words, when a settlement is initiated with the selection of payment by prepaid card, the notification unit 403 does not issue a return notification even if there is an operation to cancel the payment by prepaid card, but issues a return notification at the timing of the completion of said settlement.

[0080] Furthermore, from the perspective of preventing customers from leaving while the amount confirmation screen 530 is displayed, other timings may be set before the completion of payment. Examples of timings before the completion of payment are the following timings (3) to (5). (3) Timing in response to the pressing of the amount specification button 532 (for example, the "1000 yen" button) on the amount confirmation screen 530 in Figure 5(C). (4) The timing at which the specified charge amount on the amount confirmation screen 620 is received. For example, when the first coin is inserted, or when an amount equal to or greater than the specified charge amount is inserted. (5) Timing in the re-selection of payment type performed by pressing the cancel button 533 (Figure 5(C)) or the cancel button 614 (Figure 6(A)), depending on the selection of a payment type other than a prepaid card. Even if a return notification is issued at any of the timings (3) to (5) above, the customer will have already started the payment process, thus preventing them from leaving with the amount confirmation screen 530 still displayed.

[0081] (Regarding the case where a change in payment method from prepaid card to credit card is accepted) In this embodiment, only one type of card can be inserted into the card slot of the POS terminal device 20. Therefore, if a prepaid card is inserted into the card slot, a credit card cannot be inserted into the card slot. For this reason, as shown in Figure 7(D), when the credit card payment type selection button 712 is pressed during the selection of the payment type again, the POS terminal device 20 issues a return notification 740. Specifically, if the cancel button 533 is pressed on the amount confirmation screen 530 (Figure 5(C)) during settlement, or if the cancel button 614 is pressed on the deposit acceptance screen 610 (Figure 6(A)) during settlement, the system returns to the payment type selection screen 710 shown in Figure 7(A). Then, if "credit card" is selected from the payment type selection buttons 712 on the payment type selection screen 710, the POS terminal device 20 returns the prepaid card and issues a return notification 740.

[0082] The return notification 740 indicates that the prepaid card has been returned due to the selection of credit card as the payment method, prompting the user to remove the prepaid card. The return notification 740 is displayed until the prepaid card is removed from the card slot. When the prepaid card is removed from the card slot in the return notification 740, the POS terminal 20 transitions to a screen (not shown) prompting the user to insert a credit card into the card payment unit 208 (card slot), and performs payment by credit card.

[0083] Furthermore, if a payment method other than credit card is selected during the second payment method selection, the notification unit 403 may or may not return the prepaid card and issue a return notification. If a return notification is not issued at the time of selection, the notification unit 403 may issue a return notification at the time corresponding to the completion of settlement.

[0084] (Regarding the functional configuration for performing the screen transitions shown in Figure 7) As described above, the card insertion section of the POS terminal device 20 according to this embodiment can only accept one type of card. That is, the reading unit 401 shown in Figure 4 can read either the card identification information of a prepaid card or the card information of a credit card.

[0085] The change acceptance unit 405 accepts changes to the payment type after the settlement has started. Specifically, if the cancel button 533 is pressed on the amount confirmation screen 530 (Figure 5(C)) during settlement, or if the cancel button 614 is pressed on the payment acceptance screen 610 (Figure 6(A)) during settlement, the change acceptance unit 405 displays the payment type selection screen 710 shown in Figure 7(A) and accepts the change to the payment type.

[0086] Here, the change acceptance unit 405 may display different payment type selection screens 710 before and after the start of settlement to accept changes to the payment type. Specifically, if a cancellation of settlement using a prepaid card is accepted after the start of settlement, the possibility of selecting a prepaid card again is low, so the "prepaid card" option among the payment type selection buttons 712 may be made unselectable. Making it unselectable means hiding it or displaying it in grayed-out.

[0087] The notification unit 403 issues a return notification when it accepts a change in payment method from prepaid card to credit card. Specifically, when the payment method is selected again, the notification unit 403 issues the return notification 740 shown in Figure 7(D) when the "credit card" option is pressed among the payment method selection buttons 712.

[0088] (Charging process initiated by POS terminal device 20 while in standby mode) Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a charge process initiated by the POS terminal device 20 while it is in standby mode. As shown in Figure 8, the POS terminal device 20 determines whether or not a balance inquiry has been received when the charge button 511 is pressed on the standby screen 510 (Figure 5(A)) (step S801). The POS terminal device 20 waits until a balance inquiry is received (step S801: NO), and once a balance inquiry is received (step S801: YES), it determines whether or not a prepaid card has been inserted into the card slot (step S802).

[0089] The POS terminal device 20 waits until a prepaid card is inserted into the card slot (step S802: NO), and once the prepaid card is inserted into the card slot (step S802: YES), it queries the charge management server Sv for the charge amount and obtains the remaining charge balance (step S803).

[0090] Then, the POS terminal device 20 displays the amount confirmation screen 530 shown in Figure 5(C) to display the remaining balance and accepts the specified charge amount (step S804). Next, the POS terminal device 20 determines whether or not the specified charge amount has been accepted when the amount specification button 532 is pressed (step S805). If the specified charge amount has not been accepted (step S805: NO), the POS terminal device 20 determines whether or not the charge procedure should be canceled when the cancel button 533 is pressed (step S806).

[0091] If the charging procedure is not canceled (step S806: NO), the POS terminal 20 returns to step S805. On the other hand, if the charging procedure or balance inquiry is canceled (ended) (step S806: YES), the POS terminal 20 proceeds to step S813 to return the prepaid card and notify the customer of its return.

[0092] In step S805, if the charge amount is specified by the amount specification button 532 (step S805: YES), the POS terminal device 20 displays the deposit acceptance screen 610 shown in Figure 6(A) (step S807). The POS terminal device 20 then determines whether or not the deposit of the specified charge amount has been accepted (step S808). If the deposit of the specified charge amount has not been accepted (step S808: NO), the POS terminal device 20 determines whether or not the charge procedure should be canceled by pressing the cancel button 614 (step S809).

[0093] If the charging procedure is not canceled (step S809: NO), the POS terminal 20 returns to step S808. On the other hand, if the charging procedure is canceled (step S809: YES), the POS terminal 20 proceeds to step S813 to return the prepaid card and notify the customer of its return.

[0094] In step S808, when the specified charge amount is received (step S805: YES), the POS terminal 20 determines whether or not the charge has been confirmed by pressing the charge confirmation button 621 displayed on the amount confirmation screen 620 in Figure 6(B) (step S810). The POS terminal 20 waits until the charge is confirmed (step S810: NO), and once the charge is confirmed (step S810: YES), it sends the charge amount to the charge management server Sv (step S811). The charge management server Sv then updates the customer's charge amount based on the charge amount received from the POS terminal 20.

[0095] Then, the POS terminal device 20 issues a charge slip (step S812). Next, the POS terminal device 20 returns the prepaid card and notifies the customer of its return (step S813). Once the prepaid card is removed, the POS terminal device 20 displays the standby screen 510 shown in Figure 5(A) (step S814) and terminates the series of processes.

[0096] (Charging process performed by POS terminal device 20 during settlement) Figures 9 and 10 are flowcharts illustrating an example of the charging process performed by the POS terminal device 20 during settlement. As shown in Figure 9, the POS terminal device 20 determines whether or not it has received settlement information from the POS terminal device 20 in settlement-only mode on the standby screen 510 (Figure 5(A)) (step S901). The POS terminal device 20 waits until it receives settlement information (step S901: NO), and once it receives settlement information (step S901: YES), it displays the payment type selection screen 710 in Figure 7(A) and accepts the selection of the payment type (step S902).

[0097] The POS terminal 20 then determines whether a prepaid card has been selected (step S903). If a prepaid card is not selected (step S903: NO), that is, if a payment method other than a prepaid card is selected, the POS terminal 20 proceeds to step S923 in Figure 10. On the other hand, if a prepaid card is selected (step S903: YES), the POS terminal 20 determines whether a prepaid card has been inserted into the card slot (step S904).

[0098] The POS terminal device 20 waits until a prepaid card is inserted into the card slot (step S904: NO), and once the prepaid card is inserted into the card slot (step S904: YES), it queries the charge management server Sv for the charge amount and obtains the remaining charge balance (step S905).

[0099] Then, the POS terminal device 20 displays the remaining balance (step S906). Next, the POS terminal device 20 determines whether the remaining balance is insufficient for the payment amount (step S907). If the remaining balance is sufficient for the payment amount (step S907: NO), the POS terminal device 20 proceeds to step S917 in Figure 10.

[0100] If the remaining balance is insufficient to cover the payment amount (Step S907: YES), the POS terminal 20 determines whether or not it has accepted the specified charge amount by displaying the amount confirmation screen 530 shown in Figure 5(C) (Step S911). If the specified charge amount is not accepted (Step S911: NO), the POS terminal 20 determines whether or not the charge procedure should be canceled by pressing the cancel button 533 (Step S912).

[0101] If the charging procedure is not canceled (step S912: NO), the POS terminal device 20 returns to step S911. On the other hand, if the charging procedure is canceled (step S912: YES), the POS terminal device 20 proceeds to step S921.

[0102] In step S911, if the charge amount is specified by the amount specification button 532 (step S911: YES), the POS terminal device 20 displays the deposit acceptance screen 610 shown in Figure 6(A) (step S913). The POS terminal device 20 then determines whether or not the deposit of the specified charge amount has been accepted (step S914). If the deposit of the specified charge amount has not been accepted (step S914: NO), the POS terminal device 20 determines whether or not the charge procedure should be canceled by pressing the cancel button 614 (step S915).

[0103] If the charging procedure is not canceled (step S915: NO), the POS terminal device 20 returns to step S914. On the other hand, if the charging procedure is canceled (step S915: YES), the POS terminal device 20 proceeds to the process in step S921.

[0104] In step S914, when the specified charge amount is received (step S914: YES), the POS terminal 20 determines whether or not the charge has been confirmed by pressing the charge confirmation button 621 displayed on the amount confirmation screen 620 in Figure 6(B) (step S916). The POS terminal 20 waits until the charge is confirmed (step S916: NO), and once the charge is confirmed (step S916: YES), it executes the settlement process using the prepaid card (step S917).

[0105] The POS terminal device 20 then transmits the remaining balance to the charge management server Sv (step S918). The charge management server Sv updates the customer's charge amount based on the remaining balance received from the POS terminal device 20.

[0106] Next, the POS terminal device 20 returns the prepaid card and notifies the customer of its return (step S919). Once the prepaid card is removed, the POS terminal device 20 displays the standby screen 510 shown in Figure 5(A) (step S920) and terminates the series of processes.

[0107] In step S915, if the charge procedure is canceled (step S915: YES), the POS terminal 20 displays the payment type selection screen 710 shown in Figure 7(A) and accepts the selection of a payment type (step S921). The POS terminal 20 then determines whether or not a credit card has been selected as the payment type (step S922). If a credit card is not selected (step S922: NO), specifically if a payment type other than a prepaid card or credit card is selected, the POS terminal 20 performs the settlement process according to the selected payment type (step S923) and proceeds to step S919.

[0108] If a credit card is selected in step S922 (step S922: YES), the prepaid card is returned and a return notification is issued (step S924). The POS terminal 20 then accepts the insertion of the credit card into the card slot (step S925). Next, the POS terminal 20 performs the credit card payment process (step S926) and proceeds to step S920.

[0109] As described above, the POS terminal device 20 according to this embodiment provides a return notification indicating the return of the prepaid card at a timing corresponding to the acceptance of a predetermined operation related to the execution of a charge, on each of the multiple charge screens that are accessed after the card identification information of the prepaid card has been read. This allows the return of the prepaid card and the return notification to be performed at different timings each time, depending on the customer's operation. Therefore, it is possible to prevent customers from leaving in the middle of the charge operation and to prevent them from forgetting their cards. Thus, according to this embodiment, it is possible to support the proper handling of prepaid cards.

[0110] Furthermore, the POS terminal device 20 according to this embodiment provides a return notification when either a charge cancellation operation or a charge operation is performed. This allows the prepaid card to be returned and a return notification to be sent at a timing corresponding to the customer's charge cancellation operation or charge operation. Therefore, it is possible to prevent customers from leaving in the middle of a charge operation and to prevent them from forgetting their cards.

[0111] Furthermore, in the POS terminal device 20 according to this embodiment, a return notification is given when any of the following operations are performed: a decision operation to determine the charge amount, a deposit operation related to the deposit during the charge, or a completion operation to complete the charge. This allows for the return of the prepaid card and the notification of the return to be given at different times during the charge operation. Therefore, it is possible to more efficiently reduce the chances of customers leaving in the middle of the charge operation or forgetting their cards.

[0112] Furthermore, the POS terminal device 20 according to this embodiment accepts a predetermined operation on each of the multiple charge screens during settlement, and when settlement begins, it issues a return notification at a timing different from the timing corresponding to the acceptance of the predetermined operation. As a result, during settlement, the prepaid card can be returned and the return notification can be issued at a timing different from the timing during the waiting period. Therefore, it is possible to prevent customers from leaving in the middle of the operation during settlement and to prevent them from forgetting their cards.

[0113] Furthermore, in the POS terminal device 20 according to this embodiment, the above-mentioned different timing corresponds to the timing corresponding to the completion of settlement. That is, the POS terminal device 20 starts a settlement where payment by prepaid card is selected, and even if there is an operation to cancel payment by prepaid card, it does not issue a return notification, but issues a return notification at the timing of the completion of the settlement. This allows the return of the prepaid card and the return notification to occur upon completion of the settlement. If the return of the prepaid card and the return notification were issued before the completion of the settlement, there is a risk that the customer may mistakenly believe that the settlement has been completed even though it has not. In contrast, by returning the prepaid card and issuing a return notification upon completion of the settlement, such a misunderstanding can be suppressed. This can prevent customers from leaving in the middle of the operation before the settlement is completed, and can also prevent customers from forgetting their cards.

[0114] Furthermore, the POS terminal device 20 according to this embodiment provides a return notification at the timing corresponding to the acceptance of a change in payment method from prepaid card to credit card. This allows for the proper return of prepaid cards and notification of returns, even in POS terminal devices 20 according to this embodiment that can only accept one type of card in the card slot.

[0115] In the above explanation, settlement information is assumed to be obtained from the POS terminal device 20 in employee registration mode, but this is not limited to this. Settlement information may also be generated by the device itself, that is, it may be generated by self-registration in full self-service mode. In other words, the POS terminal device 20 can start the charging procedure while waiting in full self-service mode, and can also start the charging procedure while settlement is in progress in full self-service mode.

[0116] Furthermore, the settlement information is not limited to being generated by the POS terminal device 20 in employee registration mode or by the device itself, but may also be generated by a terminal device held by the customer. To elaborate, the terminal device transmits registered product information to an external server device in response to the customer's actions as they shop around the store. When the terminal device receives confirmation that a settlement has been initiated, it receives settlement information from the external server device and displays this settlement information on the display as a 2D code. The customer then scans the 2D code displayed on the display using the customer-side scanner unit 206 of the POS terminal device 20. This allows the POS terminal device 20 to obtain settlement information from the terminal device and perform settlement using a prepaid card. The POS terminal device 20 performing this settlement may be set to a dedicated checkout mode or to a fully self-service mode.

[0117] The following is a summary of the embodiments. [Title of Invention] Payment Device and Program [Technical Field] The present invention relates to a payment device and a program. [Background technology] Traditionally, transactions at stores and other establishments have been settled using various payment methods, including cash, credit cards, and prepaid cards. Prepaid cards are used for payments based on the amount charged, such as transportation IC cards (Integrated Circuit) prepaid cards. Customers using prepaid cards check their remaining balance and top up their cards as needed. For example, a prepaid card has a memory unit such as an IC chip or magnetic stripe. The charged amount can be stored directly in the memory unit of the prepaid card, or it can be stored on an external server device in conjunction with the card identification information stored in the memory unit. In this case, customers using prepaid cards may forget to take their prepaid card with them when checking the balance or adding money to the card. As a related technology, a system is disclosed in which a store clerk registers products and a payment device is used by customers to make payments, wherein the payment device executes payment processing using a card when the card to be used for payment is taken out, and the registration device is able to select the payment device on which the payment processing was performed as the destination for sending registration data (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art document] [Patent] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6787457 [Overview of the prefecture] [Problems the invention aims to solve] However, with conventional technology, there was a problem in that customers could still forget to take the charging medium or leave the area in the middle of the operation if they missed the warning due to ambient noise, and thus could not handle the charging medium properly. This invention has been made in view of these circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a technology that can support the proper handling of prepaid cards. [Means for solving the problem]

[0118] (1) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a payment device comprising: a reading means for reading media information from a charge medium that is used for payment using a charge amount, which is one aspect of the present invention; an operation receiving means for receiving a predetermined operation on a screen that is accessed after the media information has been read; and a notification means for providing notification at different timings indicating the return of the charge medium in response to the acceptance of the predetermined operation. According to the above configuration, the prepaid card can be returned and the customer can be notified of its return at different times depending on the customer's actions. Therefore, it is possible to prevent customers from leaving in the middle of the charging process and to prevent them from forgetting their cards. Thus, this embodiment can support the proper handling of prepaid cards.

[0119] (2) In the configuration of (1) above, the predetermined operation includes a charge operation to perform a charge and a cancellation operation to stop the charge, and the notification means may perform the notification when either the charge operation or the cancellation operation is performed. With the above configuration, the prepaid card can be returned and a return notification can be sent in response to the customer's charge operation or cancellation operation. Therefore, it is possible to prevent customers from leaving in the middle of a charge operation and to prevent them from forgetting their cards.

[0120] (3) In the configuration of (1) or (2) above, the charge operation includes a decision operation to determine the amount of the charge, a deposit operation relating to the deposit in the charge, and a completion operation to complete the charge, and the notification means may provide the notification when any of the operations of the decision operation, the deposit operation, and the completion operation are performed. With the above configuration, the return of the prepaid card and notification of its return can be performed at different times during the charging process. Therefore, it is possible to more efficiently reduce instances of customers leaving the customer's device during the charging process or forgetting their card.

[0121] (4) In any of the configurations described in (1) to (3) above, the system may be configured to include a settlement means for performing settlement, and the notification means may not make the notification even when a settlement is initiated for which payment on the charge medium has been selected and an operation is made to cancel payment on the charge medium, but may make the notification at the time of completion of the settlement. With the above configuration, during settlement, the return of the prepaid card and notification of its return can be performed at a different timing than when it is in standby mode. Specifically, the return of the prepaid card and notification of its return can be performed when the settlement is completed. If the return of the prepaid card and notification of its return were performed before the settlement was completed, there is a risk that the customer may mistakenly believe that the settlement was completed even though it was not. In contrast, by returning the prepaid card and notifying the customer of its return upon completion of the settlement, such misunderstandings can be prevented. This prevents customers from leaving the transaction midway through before the settlement is completed and also prevents them from forgetting their cards.

[0122] Furthermore, in the configuration of (4) above, the system may be provided with a change acceptance means for accepting a change in the payment type after the start of the settlement process, the reading means capable of reading either the media information or the credit card information, and the notification means may make the notification at a timing corresponding to the acceptance of a change in the payment type from the charge medium to the credit card. With the above configuration, even if the POS terminal device 20 according to this embodiment allows only one type of card to be inserted into the card insertion section, the return of the prepaid card and notification of the return can be performed appropriately.

[0123] (5) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer to function as a payment device, characterized in that the computer functions as a reading means for reading media information from a charge medium that makes a payment using the charge amount, an operation receiving means for receiving a predetermined operation on a screen that is accessed after the media information has been read, and a notification means for giving notifications at different timings indicating the return of the charge medium in response to the acceptance of the predetermined operation. According to the above configuration, the prepaid card can be returned and the customer can be notified of its return at different times depending on the customer's actions. Therefore, it is possible to prevent customers from leaving in the middle of an operation and to prevent them from forgetting their cards. Thus, this embodiment can support the proper handling of prepaid cards.

[0124] Furthermore, all or part of the functions (input / output, storage, processing (including judgment, etc.)) of the POS terminal device 20 described above may be implemented in a device other than the one described as the entity that executes those functions.

[0125] For example, instead of the POS terminal device 20, a store controller 10, a charge management server Sv, or a cloud server (not shown) may perform control related to reading media information, control to accept predetermined operations on each of the multiple charge screens, and control related to return notification. Specifically, for example, another device may perform the processing that the POS terminal device 20 would perform (see Figures 8 to 10) instead of the POS terminal device 20.

[0126] Furthermore, while the above description described a POS terminal device 20 comprising a reading unit 401, an operation reception unit 402, a notification unit 403, a settlement unit 404, and a change reception unit 405, all or part of these functional units may be provided in other computer devices. For example, all or part of these functional units may be provided in the store controller 10, in the cloud server, or in other computer devices. Also, the computer devices equipped with these functional units are not limited to multiple units, but may consist of just one unit. For example, all of these functional units may be provided in a single computer device.

[0127] In relation to the above, the POS terminal device 20 may function as a so-called thin client specializing in the input / output interface portion with respect to control related to reading media information, control for accepting predetermined operations on each of the multiple charge screens, and control related to return notification. In other words, the POS terminal device 20 may accept various inputs (operation by the operator, detection by a device such as a scanner), send input information (operation information, scan information, etc.) to a cloud server, receive the processing results of the cloud server based on the input information (updated screen information, device control information, etc.), and perform various outputs (display on the display unit, device control).

[0128] Furthermore, the program for realizing the POS system 1 and POS terminal device 20 described above may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program may be loaded into a computer system and executed. Here, "computer system" includes hardware such as the OS and peripheral devices. "Computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) flash memory, SSD (Solid State Drive), flexible disk, magneto-optical disk, ROM, CD-ROM, and storage devices such as hard disks built into a computer system. Moreover, "computer-readable recording medium" also includes volatile memory (RAM) inside a computer system that acts as a server or client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line, which retains the program for a certain period of time. Furthermore, the above program may be transmitted from the computer system that stores the program in a storage device, etc., to another computer system via a transmission medium or by transmission waves in the transmission medium. Here, "transmission medium" for transmitting the program refers to a medium that has the function of transmitting information, such as a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. Furthermore, the above program may be intended to implement some of the functions described above. It may also be a so-called differential file (differential program) that can implement the aforementioned functions in combination with programs already recorded in the computer system. [Explanation of symbols]

[0129] Sv...Charge management server, 1...POS system, 10...Store controller, 11...Transaction status management device, 20...POS terminal device, 201...CPU, 202...ROM, 203...RAM, 204...Hard disk, 205...Customer-side display unit, 206...Customer-side scanner unit, 208...Card payment unit, 209...Change dispenser, 213...Printing unit, 214...Audio output unit, 215...Communication unit, 401...Reading unit, 402...Operation reception unit, 403...Notification unit, 404...Settlement unit, 405...Change reception unit

Claims

1. A reading means for reading media information from a charge medium that uses the charged amount for payment, In the screen that is accessed after the media information has been read, there is an operation reception means that accepts a predetermined operation, A notification means that provides notification indicating the return of the charging medium, Equipped with, The aforementioned notification means is, The notification is given when either a charging operation to initiate charging or a cancellation operation to halt charging is performed. Even if a settlement is initiated with payment selected using the aforementioned charging medium, and the operation to cancel the payment using the aforementioned charging medium is performed, the notification will not be issued, and the notification will be issued at the time of completion of the settlement. A payment device characterized by the following features.

2. A program that makes a computer function as a payment device, The aforementioned computer, A reading means for reading media information from a charging medium that uses the charged amount for payment. In the screen to which the media information is read, an operation receiving means accepts a predetermined operation. Notification means for providing notification indicating the return of the aforementioned charging medium, To make it function as, The aforementioned notification means is, The notification is given when either a charging operation to initiate charging or a cancellation operation to halt charging is performed. Even if a settlement is initiated with payment selected using the aforementioned charging medium, and the operation to cancel the payment using the aforementioned charging medium is performed, the notification will not be issued, and the notification will be issued at the time of completion of the settlement. A program characterized by the following features.

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