Information processing device and program

Abstract

To link transaction data with an electronic receipt apparatus.SOLUTION: An information processing apparatus includes an acquisition unit, an issuance processing unit, and an output unit. The acquisition unit acquires, after online settlement is completed for a transaction based on a commodity registered by a user using a terminal, transaction data and first transaction code from a transaction management apparatus which stores the transaction data related to the transaction and the first transaction code related to the transaction. The issuance processing unit issues a second transaction code in a code system which is different from that of the first transaction code. The output unit outputs the transaction data and the second transaction code to an electronic receipt apparatus.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 16B

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an information processing apparatus and a program. [Background Art]

[0002] In stores such as supermarkets, an increasing number of systems allow users to register products themselves while moving around the store. Examples of such systems include a shopping cart system that uses a terminal having a product registration function, and a self-scanning system that uses a mobile terminal owned by the user or a mobile terminal prepared in advance by the store, etc.

[0003] In this system, users can use various payment methods. For example, the user can perform not only payment using a checkout counter but also online payment using a terminal that does not go through a checkout counter.

[0004] Furthermore, the provision of electronic receipts is also being promoted. Regardless of the payment method, it is required to link transaction data to an electronic receipt device. For example, when a user makes an online payment using a terminal that does not go through a checkout counter, the user cannot receive a paper receipt. [Prior Art Documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2021-51339 [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0006] A problem to be solved by embodiments of the present invention is to provide a technology capable of linking transaction data to an electronic receipt device. [Means for Solving the Problem]

[0007] The information processing device according to the embodiment comprises an acquisition unit, an issuance processing unit, and an output unit. The acquisition unit acquires transaction data and a first transaction code from a transaction management device that stores transaction data and a first transaction code related to a transaction after the completion of online settlement of a transaction based on product registration by a user using a terminal. The issuance processing unit issues a second transaction code with a different code system from the first transaction code. The output unit outputs the transaction data and the second transaction code to an electronic receipt device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic example of the configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration example of a transaction management server according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration example of an electronic receipt server according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration example of the first accounting machine according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic block diagram showing an example configuration of a second accounting machine according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of the display of the top trading screen shown on the terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of the personal authentication screen displayed on a terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of the display of the link confirmation screen shown on the terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of the display of the electronic receipt top screen shown on the terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an example of the payment selection screen displayed on a terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 11]Figure 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the display process for an electronic receipt in the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 12A] Figure 12A is a sequence diagram showing an example of the linking process between a shopping member ID and an electronic receipt member ID in the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 12B] Figure 12B is a sequence diagram showing an example of the linking process between a shopping member ID and an electronic receipt member ID in the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a sequence diagram showing a first example of the process of linking transaction data to an electronic receipt server in an information processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a sequence diagram showing an example of return processing in an information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a sequence diagram showing a second example of the process of linking transaction data to an electronic receipt server in the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 16A] Figure 16A is a sequence diagram showing a third example of the process of linking transaction data to an electronic receipt server in the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 16B] Figure 16B is a sequence diagram showing a third example of the process of linking transaction data to an electronic receipt server in the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a sequence diagram showing another example of return processing in the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] (Embodiment) The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the scale of the parts in the drawings used in the description of the embodiments may have been changed as appropriate. Also, for illustrative purposes, some components may be omitted from the drawings used in the description of the embodiments.

[0010] (Configuration Example) FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing a configuration example of an information processing system SY. The information processing system SY includes a transaction management server 1, an electronic receipt server 2, an online payment server 3, a terminal 4, a first accounting apparatus 5, and a second accounting apparatus 6. The terminal 4, the first accounting apparatus 5, and the second accounting apparatus 6 are apparatuses used in a store ST. The transaction management server 1, the electronic receipt server 2, the online payment server 3, the terminal 4, the first accounting apparatus 5, and the second accounting apparatus 6 are communicatively connected to each other via a network. The network includes one or more networks such as the Internet, a mobile communication network, and a LAN (Local Area Network). The LAN may be a wireless LAN or a wired LAN.

[0011] Although FIG. 1 shows one terminal 4, the information processing system SY may include a plurality of terminals 4. Although FIG. 1 shows one first accounting apparatus 5, the information processing system SY may include a plurality of first accounting apparatuses 5. Although FIG. 1 shows one second accounting apparatus 6, the information processing system SY may include a plurality of second accounting apparatuses 6. The information processing system SY may also refer to a system including at least two apparatuses.

[0012] The transaction management server 1 is a device that manages each transaction at a store ST by a first transaction ID. A transaction is a set of commercial transactions for completing the delivery of products between a customer who is a user and the store ST. Product registration performed by the user using the terminal 4 may adopt a mode in which the terminal 4 itself stores a product master. In this example, the terminal 4 refers to the product master based on acquisition of a product code, and acquires product information corresponding to the acquired product code from the product master. The terminal 4 registers the acquired product information as transaction information in the terminal 4. Alternatively, product registration performed by the user using the terminal 4 may adopt a mode in which the transaction management server 1 stores the product master. In this example, based on acquisition of a product code, the terminal 4 outputs the acquired product code as a registration request to the transaction management server 1. The transaction management server 1 refers to the product master, and acquires product information corresponding to the acquired product code from the product master. The transaction management server 1 registers the acquired product information as transaction information in the transaction management server 1. In the following description, the latter mode will be taken as an example for explanation. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the term "transaction" refers to a transaction based on product registration performed by a user using the terminal 4. The first transaction ID is identification information that can uniquely identify a transaction. The transaction management server 1 can use the first transaction ID. That the transaction management server 1 can use the first transaction ID includes that the transaction management server 1 can process data based on the first transaction ID. It can also be said that the first transaction ID is a code system that can be used by the transaction management server 1. For example, the code system of the first transaction ID is a 6-digit or longer number, but is not limited thereto. The first transaction ID is an example of a first transaction code. The transaction management server 1 is an example of a transaction management device. A configuration example of the transaction management server 1 will be described later.

[0013] The electronic receipt server 2 is a device that provides an electronic receipt for each transaction. An electronic receipt is an image showing transaction details that can be displayed on an electronic device. The electronic receipt server 2 is an example of an electronic receipt device. A configuration example of the electronic receipt server 2 will be described later.

[0014] The online payment server 3 is a device that communicates with terminal 4 for online settlement of transactions using terminal 4. The online payment server 3 enables various online payments by users using terminal 4. Online payments are non-cash payments made via a network, such as credit cards, debit cards, electronic money, code payments, or points. Hereinafter, the term "online settlement of transactions using terminal 4" refers to online payments based on communication between terminal 4 and the online payment server 3, without going through the first accounting machine 5 or the second accounting machine 6.

[0015] Terminal 4 is a device used by users for shopping within the store ST. Terminal 4 allows users to register products. Product registration is the process of registering products as the subject of a transaction. Terminal 4 is movable as the user moves. Terminal 4 may be a terminal used mounted on a shopping cart, or a terminal used independently of a shopping cart. Terminal 4 may be a terminal lent out by the store ST, or a terminal owned by the user. Terminal 4 may be a tablet or smartphone, or a combination of a tablet or smartphone and an external device. Terminal 4 stores the application program used for shopping within the store ST. Hereinafter, the application program used for shopping within the store ST will also be referred to as the shopping app.

[0016] The first accounting machine 5 is a device capable of processing transaction settlements. The first accounting machine 5 can process not only online payments but also offline cash payments. The first accounting machine 5 can utilize the first transaction ID. The fact that the first accounting machine 5 can utilize the first transaction ID includes the fact that the first accounting machine 5 can process data based on the first transaction ID. The first transaction ID can also be described as a code system usable by the first accounting machine 5. The first accounting machine 5 is an example of an accounting device. An example configuration of the first accounting machine 5 will be described later.

[0017] The second accounting machine 6 is a device capable of processing transaction settlements. The second accounting machine 6 can process not only online settlements but also offline settlements. The second accounting machine 6 can utilize a second transaction ID. The ability of the second accounting machine 6 to utilize a second transaction ID includes the ability of the second accounting machine 6 to process data based on the second transaction ID. The coding scheme of the second transaction ID is different from the coding scheme of the first transaction ID. For example, the coding scheme of the second transaction ID has fewer digits than the coding scheme of the first transaction ID. In this example, the coding scheme of the second transaction ID is a number of four digits or less. The manner in which the coding scheme of the second transaction ID differs from the coding scheme of the first transaction ID is not limited to the number of digits. The second transaction ID is an example of a second transaction code. Note that the second accounting machine 6 cannot utilize the first transaction ID. The inability of the second accounting machine 6 to utilize the first transaction ID includes the fact that the second accounting machine 6 cannot process data based on the first transaction ID. The first transaction ID can also be described as a code system that is not available to the second accounting machine 6. The second accounting machine 6 is an example of an accounting machine or information processing device. An example configuration of the second accounting machine 6 will be described later.

[0018] In the information processing system SY described above, the user makes a purchase as follows: The user walks around the store ST with terminal 4. The user reads the code symbol attached to the product using terminal 4. Based on the reading of the code symbol, terminal 4 obtains the product ID (also called the product code) from the code symbol. The product ID is identification information that can uniquely identify the product. Terminal 4 registers the product based on the product ID. The user adds the registered product to the shopping cart. The registered product is the product registered using terminal 4. After the user finishes registering the product using terminal 4, the user makes the payment for the transaction. The user can make the payment for the transaction using the first checkout machine 5. The user can make the payment for the transaction online using terminal 4. In the latter case, the user does not need to make the payment for the transaction using the first checkout machine 5. Upon completion of the payment for the transaction, the user finishes shopping using the shopping app.

[0019] This section describes an example configuration for transaction management server 1. Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic example of the configuration of transaction management server 1. The transaction management server 1 includes a processor 10, main memory 11, auxiliary storage device 12, and communication interface 13. In Figure 2, the interface is labeled "I / F".

[0020] The processor 10 is the central part of the transaction management server 1. The processor 10 is an element that makes up the computer of the transaction management server 1. The processor 10 is composed of various circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processor 10 is an example of the processing circuit of the transaction management server 1. The processor 10 loads a program that is pre-stored in the main memory 11 or auxiliary storage device 12 into the main memory 11. The program is a program that allows the processor 10 to execute the processing of each part that will be implemented by the processor 10, as described later. The processor 10 executes various processes by executing the program loaded into the main memory 11.

[0021] Main memory 11 includes elements corresponding to the main memory portion of the transaction management server 1. Main memory 11 is an element that constitutes the computer of the transaction management server 1. Main memory 11 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area of ​​main memory 11, the operating system or programs are stored. Main memory 11 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processor 10. For example, main memory 11 includes ROM (Read Only Memory) as a non-volatile memory area. For example, main memory 11 includes RAM (Random Access Memory) as a volatile memory area.

[0022] The auxiliary storage device 12 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the transaction management server 1. The auxiliary storage device 12 is, but is not limited to, EEPROM (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disc Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), or flash memory. The auxiliary storage device 12 stores the above-mentioned program, data used by the processor 10 in performing various processes, and data generated by the processing performed by the processor 10. The auxiliary storage device 12 is an example of the storage unit of the transaction management server 1.

[0023] The auxiliary storage device 12 includes an ID storage area 121. The ID storage area 121 stores the shopping member ID and the electronic receipt member ID for each user when the shopping member ID and the electronic receipt member ID are linked as described later. The member ID and the electronic receipt member ID are linked to each other. The shopping member ID is identification information that can uniquely identify the terminal 4 that uses the shopping service with the shopping app at the store ST. The electronic receipt member ID is identification information that can uniquely identify the user that uses the electronic receipt service at terminal 4.

[0024] The auxiliary storage device 12 includes a transaction data storage area 122. The transaction data storage area 122 stores a first transaction ID, a shopping member ID, an electronic receipt member ID, transaction data, and settlement status information for each transaction. The first transaction ID, shopping member ID, electronic receipt member ID, transaction data, and settlement status information are linked to each other. Transaction data is data related to a transaction. Transaction data includes product data for each product that is the subject of the transaction based on product registration. For example, product data includes data such as product ID, product name, quantity, and amount. The product name is the name of the product. The quantity is the number of products identified by the same product ID. The amount is the total amount of products identified by the same product ID. Settlement status information is information indicating the settlement status of a transaction. If the transaction is unsettled, the settlement status information indicates that the transaction is unsettled. If the transaction is settled, the settlement status information indicates that the transaction is settled. If the transaction is settled, the settlement status information includes payment method information. Payment method information indicates the payment method for the transaction. If the settlement method for a transaction is online settlement using terminal 4, the settlement method information is information indicating online settlement of the transaction using terminal 4. If the settlement method for a transaction is settlement of the transaction using the first accounting machine 5, the settlement method information is information indicating settlement of the transaction using the first accounting machine 5.

[0025] The communication interface 13 is an interface for connecting the transaction management server 1 to other devices so that it can communicate with them. The communication interface 13 is an example of the communication unit of the transaction management server 1.

[0026] The hardware configuration of the transaction management server 1 is not limited to the configuration described above. The transaction management server 1 may, as appropriate, omit or change the above-mentioned components and add new components.

[0027] The various components implemented by the processor 10 will be described below. The processor 10 implements the cooperation processing unit 101, the communication processing unit 102, the issuing unit 103, and the memory control unit 104. Each part implemented by the processor 10 can also be called a function. Each part implemented by the processor 10 can also be said to be implemented in the control unit which includes the processor 10 and the main memory 11.

[0028] The linking processing unit 101 processes the linking of the shopping member ID and the electronic receipt member ID.

[0029] The communication processing unit 102 acquires data from other devices via the communication interface 13. The communication processing unit 102 is an example of an acquisition unit. For example, the communication processing unit 102 acquires the product ID related to the product registration read by the terminal 4 based on the product registration by the user using the terminal 4. For example, the communication processing unit 102 acquires notifications from the online payment server 3. The notifications include the transaction settlement status, such as "transaction completed" or "transaction not settled," for online settlement of transactions using the terminal 4. For example, the communication processing unit 102 acquires notifications from the first accounting machine 5. The notifications include the transaction settlement status, such as "transaction completed" or "transaction not settled," for settlement of transactions using the first accounting machine 5. The communication processing unit 102 outputs data to other devices via the communication interface 13. The communication processing unit 102 is an example of an output unit. In the following description, "communication processing unit 102" may be read as "communication interface 13."

[0030] The issuing unit 103 issues a first transaction ID for each transaction.

[0031] The memory control unit 104 stores the data in the auxiliary storage device 12. For example, the memory control unit 104 updates the transaction data based on the product ID obtained from the terminal 4 by the communication processing unit 102. For example, the memory control unit 104 updates the payment status information based on the notification obtained from the online payment server 3 or the first accounting machine 5 by the communication processing unit 102.

[0032] This section describes an example configuration for the electronic receipt server 2. Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic example of the configuration of the electronic receipt server 2. The electronic receipt server 2 includes a processor 20, main memory 21, auxiliary storage device 22, and communication interface 23. In Figure 3, the interface is labeled "I / F".

[0033] The processor 20 is the central part of the electronic receipt server 2. The processor 20 is an element that constitutes the computer of the electronic receipt server 2. The processor 20 may be configured in the same way as the processor 10. The processor 20 is an example of the processing circuit of the electronic receipt server 2. The processor 20 loads a program that is pre-stored in the main memory 21 or auxiliary storage device 22 into the main memory 21. The program is a program that allows the processor 20 to execute the processing of each part that will be implemented by the processor 20, as described later. The processor 20 performs various processes by executing the program loaded into the main memory 21.

[0034] The main memory 21 includes elements corresponding to the main memory portion of the electronic receipt server 2. The main memory 21 is an element that constitutes the computer of the electronic receipt server 2. The main memory 21 may be configured in the same way as the main memory 11.

[0035] The auxiliary storage device 22 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the electronic receipt server 2. The auxiliary storage device 22 may be configured similarly to the auxiliary storage device 12. The auxiliary storage device 22 is an example of a storage unit of the electronic receipt server 2.

[0036] The auxiliary storage device 22 includes an ID storage area 221. The ID storage area 221 stores the shopping member ID and the electronic receipt member ID for each user, if the shopping member ID and the electronic receipt member ID are linked as described later. The member ID and the electronic receipt member ID are linked to each other.

[0037] The auxiliary storage device 22 includes an electronic receipt storage area 222. The electronic receipt storage area 222 stores the electronic receipt member ID, transaction ID, transaction data, and electronic receipt data for each transaction. The electronic receipt member ID, transaction ID, transaction data, and electronic receipt data are linked to each other. The transaction ID is either the first transaction ID or the second transaction ID. The transaction data stored in the electronic receipt storage area 222 is transaction data relating to transactions that have been settled. The electronic receipt data is the data of the electronic receipt generated based on the transaction data. The electronic receipt includes the transaction ID linked to the electronic receipt data. The electronic receipt may include the transaction ID as a string, or it may include a code symbol in which the transaction ID is stored.

[0038] The communication interface 23 is an interface for connecting the electronic receipt server 2 to other devices so that it can communicate with them. The communication interface 23 is an example of the communication unit of the electronic receipt server 2.

[0039] The hardware configuration of the electronic receipt server 2 is not limited to the configuration described above. The electronic receipt server 2 may, as appropriate, omit or change the above-described components and add new components.

[0040] The various components implemented by the processor 20 will be described below. The processor 20 implements the cooperation processing unit 201, the communication processing unit 202, and the memory control unit 203. Each part implemented by the processor 20 can also be called a function. Each part implemented by the processor 20 can also be said to be implemented in the control unit which includes the processor 20 and the main memory 21.

[0041] The linking processing unit 201 processes the linking of the shopping member ID and the electronic receipt member ID.

[0042] The communication processing unit 202 acquires data from other devices via the communication interface 23. The communication processing unit 202 is an example of an acquisition unit. The communication processing unit 202 also outputs data to other devices via the communication interface 23. The communication processing unit 202 is an example of an output unit. In the following description, "communication processing unit 202" may be read as "communication interface 23".

[0043] The memory control unit 203 stores the data in the auxiliary storage device 22.

[0044] A configuration example of the first accounting machine 5 will be described. Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic example of the configuration of the first accounting machine 5. The first accounting machine 5 includes a processor 50, main memory 51, auxiliary storage device 52, communication interface 53, input / output interface 54, scanner 55, change dispenser 56, printing device 57, input device 58, and display device 59. In Figure 4, the interface is labeled "I / F".

[0045] The processor 50 corresponds to the central part of the first accounting machine 5. The processor 50 may have the same hardware configuration as the processor 10 described above. The processor 50 is an example of the processing circuit of the first accounting machine 5. The processor 50 loads a program pre-stored in the main memory 51 or auxiliary storage device 52 into the main memory 51. The program is a program that allows the processor 50 to execute the processing of each part, which will be described later and implemented by the processor 50. The processor 50 performs various processes by executing the program loaded into the main memory 51.

[0046] Main memory 51 corresponds to the main memory portion of the first accounting machine 5. Main memory 51 may have the same hardware configuration as the main memory 11 described above. Main memory 51 stores programs. Main memory 51 is an example of a storage unit of the first accounting machine 5.

[0047] The auxiliary storage device 52 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the first accounting machine 5. The auxiliary storage device 52 may have the same hardware configuration as the auxiliary storage device 12 described above. The auxiliary storage device 52 stores the above-mentioned program, data used by the processor 50 in performing various processes, and data generated by the processing performed by the processor 50. The auxiliary storage device 52 is an example of a storage unit of the first accounting machine 5.

[0048] The communication interface 53 is an interface for connecting the first accounting machine 5 to other devices in a communicative manner. The communication interface 53 is an example of the communication unit of the first accounting machine 5.

[0049] The input / output interface 54 includes various interfaces that enable communication by directly connecting the first accounting machine 5 to other electronic devices via wired or wireless connections. For example, the input / output interface 54 connects the first accounting machine 5 to a card reader. A card reader is a device that reads card data recorded on the magnetic stripe or IC (Integrated Circuit) chip of a card medium. The card medium may include a credit card.

[0050] The scanner 55 is a device that reads various code symbols and acquires data from the code symbols. The scanner 55 may include a scanner using an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge-Coupled Device), or it may include a laser scanner. The code symbols may include code symbols for code payments.

[0051] The change dispenser 56 is a device that dispenses banknotes or coins equivalent to the amount of change.

[0052] The printing device 57 is a device for printing on receipts. For example, the printing device 57 may be a thermal printer or an inkjet printer.

[0053] The input device 58 is a device on which instructions can be entered for the first accounting machine 5. The input device 58 may include, for example, a keyboard. The input device 58 may also include a touchscreen configured together with the display device 59.

[0054] The display device 59 is a device capable of displaying various images. For example, the display device 59 is a liquid crystal display or an EL (electroluminescence) display, etc.

[0055] The hardware configuration of the first accounting machine 5 is not limited to the configuration described above. The first accounting machine 5 may, as appropriate, omit or change the above-described components and add new components.

[0056] The various components implemented by the processor 50 will be described below. The processor 50 implements the communication processing unit 501, the settlement processing unit 502, the return processing unit 503, and the memory control unit 504. Each part implemented by the processor 50 can also be called a function. Each part implemented by the processor 50 can also be said to be implemented in the control unit which includes the processor 50 and the main memory 51.

[0057] The communication processing unit 501 acquires data from other devices via the communication interface 53. The communication processing unit 501 is an example of an acquisition unit. The communication processing unit 501 also outputs data to other devices via the communication interface 53. The communication processing unit 501 is an example of an output unit. In the following description, "communication processing unit 501" may be read as "communication interface 53".

[0058] The settlement processing unit 502 processes the settlement of the transaction.

[0059] The return processing unit 503 processes returns in transactions for which payment has been completed. The return processing is the process by which the store ST refunds the user in exchange for the goods returned by the user (customer) to the store ST. The refund may be in cash or non-cash. The items subject to return may be all items in the transaction or some of the items.

[0060] The memory control unit 504 stores the data in the auxiliary storage device 52.

[0061] We will now describe an example configuration of the second accounting machine 6. Figure 5 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration example of the second accounting machine 6. The second accounting machine 6 includes a processor 60, main memory 61, auxiliary storage device 62, communication interface 63, input / output interface 64, scanner 65, change dispenser 66, printing device 67, input device 68, and display device 69. In Figure 5, the interface is labeled "I / F".

[0062] The processor 60 corresponds to the central part of the second accounting machine 6. The processor 60 may have the same hardware configuration as the processor 10 described above. The processor 60 is an example of the processing circuit of the second accounting machine 6. The processor 60 loads a program pre-stored in the main memory 61 or auxiliary storage device 62 into the main memory 61. The program is a program that allows the processor 60 to execute the processing of each part, which will be described later and implemented by the processor 60. The processor 60 performs various processes by executing the program loaded into the main memory 61.

[0063] Main memory 61 corresponds to the main memory portion of the second accounting machine 6. Main memory 61 may have the same hardware configuration as the main memory 11 described above. Main memory 61 stores programs. Main memory 61 is an example of a storage unit of the second accounting machine 6.

[0064] The auxiliary storage device 62 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the second accounting machine 6. The auxiliary storage device 62 may have the same hardware configuration as the auxiliary storage device 12 described above. The auxiliary storage device 62 stores the above-mentioned program, data used by the processor 60 in performing various processes, and data generated by the processing performed by the processor 60. The auxiliary storage device 62 is an example of a storage unit of the second accounting machine 6.

[0065] The communication interface 63 is an interface for connecting the second accounting machine 6 to other devices in a communicative manner. The communication interface 63 is an example of the communication unit of the second accounting machine 6.

[0066] The input / output interface 64 includes various interfaces that enable communication by directly connecting the second accounting machine 6 to other electronic devices via wired or wireless connections. For example, the input / output interface 64 connects the second accounting machine 6 to a card reader.

[0067] Scanner 65 is a device that reads various code symbols and obtains data from those code symbols. Scanner 65 may have the same hardware configuration as scanner 55.

[0068] The change dispenser 66 is a device that dispenses banknotes or coins equivalent to the amount of change.

[0069] The printing device 67 is a device for printing on receipts. The printing device 67 may have the same hardware configuration as the printing device 57.

[0070] The input device 68 is a device that can receive instructions for the second accounting machine 6. The input device 68 may have the same hardware configuration as the input device 58.

[0071] The display device 69 is a device capable of displaying various images. The display device 69 may have the same hardware configuration as the display device 59.

[0072] Furthermore, the hardware configuration of the second accounting machine 6 is not limited to the configuration described above. The second accounting machine 6 may, as appropriate, omit or change the above-mentioned components and add new components.

[0073] The various components implemented by the processor 60 will be described below. The processor 60 implements the communication processing unit 601, the settlement processing unit 602, the return processing unit 603, the storage control unit 604, and the issuance unit 605. Each part implemented by the processor 60 can also be called a function. Each part implemented by the processor 60 can also be said to be implemented in the control unit which includes the processor 60 and the main memory 61.

[0074] The communication processing unit 601 acquires data from other devices via the communication interface 63. The communication processing unit 601 is an example of an acquisition unit. The communication processing unit 601 also outputs data to other devices via the communication interface 63. The communication processing unit 601 is an example of an output unit. In the following description, "communication processing unit 601" may be read as "communication interface 63".

[0075] The settlement processing unit 602 processes the settlement of transactions based on product registration by the user using terminal 4.

[0076] The return processing unit 603 processes returns for transactions that have already been settled.

[0077] The memory control unit 604 stores the data in the auxiliary storage device 62.

[0078] The issuing unit 605 issues a second transaction ID for each transaction.

[0079] (Example display) This section explains the various images displayed on terminal 4.

[0080] Figure 6 shows an example of the SCA display on the trading top screen shown on terminal 4. The transaction top screen SCA is an image displayed on terminal 4 based on the launch of the shopping app on terminal 4. The user launches the shopping app on terminal 4 when starting to shop in store ST.

[0081] The transaction top screen SCA displays a user-selectable "Start Shopping" button BA. The "Start Shopping" button BA is a button for the user to begin registering products using terminal 4. The transaction top screen SCA also displays a user-selectable "Electronic Receipt" button BB. The "Electronic Receipt" button BB is a button for displaying images related to electronic receipts. For example, images related to electronic receipts include the electronic receipt top screen described later and electronic receipts specified by the user. Images related to electronic receipts may also be images displayed on terminal 4 in the in-app browser using the web browser function built into the shopping app.

[0082] Figure 7 shows an example of the display of the SCB personal authentication screen shown on terminal 4. The personal authentication screen SCB is an image displayed on terminal 4 to link the shopping member ID and the electronic receipt member ID. If the shopping member ID and the electronic receipt member ID are not linked, the user is assumed to have selected the electronic receipt button BB on the transaction top screen SCA, as exemplified in Figure 6. The image displayed on terminal 4 transitions from the transaction top screen SCA to the personal authentication screen SCB based on the selection of the electronic receipt button BB on the transaction top screen SCA. The personal authentication screen SCB displays a send button BC that can be selected by the user. The send button BC is a button that outputs the phone number of terminal 4 entered by the user on the personal authentication screen SCB to the transaction management server 1 from terminal 4. The phone number is used by terminal 4 to obtain an authentication code from the electronic receipt server 2. The authentication code is a code for authenticating terminal 4. The personal authentication screen SCB displays an authentication button BD that can be selected by the user. The authentication button BD is a button that outputs the authentication code entered by the user on the personal authentication screen SCB to the transaction management server 1 from terminal 4. The personal authentication screen SCB displays a back button BE, which can be selected by the user. The back button BE is a button that transitions the image displayed on terminal 4 from the personal authentication screen SCB to the trading top screen SCA.

[0083] Figure 8 shows an example of the display of the SCC linkage confirmation screen shown on terminal 4. The Link Confirmation Screen SCC is an image displayed on Terminal 4 to link the Shopping Member ID and the Electronic Receipt Member ID. The user selects the authentication button BD on the Personal Authentication Screen SCB, as illustrated in Figure 7. The image displayed on Terminal 4 transitions from the Personal Authentication Screen SCB to the Link Confirmation Screen SCC based on the selection of the authentication button BD on the Personal Authentication Screen SCB. The Link Confirmation Screen SCC displays an OK button BF, which can be selected by the user. The OK button BF is a button that outputs the Shopping Member ID set on Terminal 4 to the Transaction Management Server 1. The Link Confirmation Screen SCC displays a Back button BG, which can be selected by the user. The Back button BG is a button that transitions the image displayed on Terminal 4 from the Link Confirmation Screen SCC to the Transaction Top Screen SCA. After linking the Shopping Member ID and the Electronic Receipt Member ID, Terminal 4 may store only the Shopping Member ID, or it may store both the Shopping Member ID and the Electronic Receipt Member ID.

[0084] Figure 9 shows an example of the display of the SCD (Electronic Receipt Top Screen) shown on terminal 4. The electronic receipt top screen SCD is the image displayed on terminal 4 after selecting the electronic receipt button BB on the transaction top screen SCA. The electronic receipt top screen SCD may also be the image displayed on terminal 4 in the in-app browser. The following describes the case where the shopping member ID and electronic receipt member ID are not linked. In this case, the images displayed on terminal 4 transition in the following order based on the selection of the electronic receipt button BB on the transaction top screen SCA: transaction top screen SCA, personal authentication screen SCB, linkage confirmation screen SCC, and electronic receipt top screen SCD. The following describes the case where the shopping member ID and electronic receipt member ID are linked. In this case, the images displayed on terminal 4 transition from the transaction top screen SCA to the electronic receipt top screen SCD based on the selection of the electronic receipt button BB on the transaction top screen SCA. If the user has already registered for the electronic receipt service, terminal 4 can remember the electronic receipt member ID and password. In this case, terminal 4 omits the display of the electronic receipt top screen SCD based on the selection of the electronic receipt button BB on the transaction top screen SCA and displays an image related to electronic receipts. The electronic receipt top screen SCD displays a user-selectable login button BH. The login button BH is for users who have already registered for the electronic receipt service and displays the login screen where they enter their electronic receipt member ID and password. The electronic receipt top screen SCD also displays a user-selectable new registration button BI. The new registration button BI is for users who are not yet members of the electronic receipt service and displays the new registration screen for new registration.

[0085] Figure 10 shows an example of the payment selection screen SCE displayed on terminal 4. The payment selection screen SCE is an image displayed on terminal 4 after selecting the "Start Shopping" button BA on the transaction top screen SCA, at the point where the user selects the payment method for the transaction. The payment selection screen SCE displays the smartphone payment button BJ, which can be selected by the user. The smartphone payment button BJ is a button for making online payments for transactions using terminal 4. Based on the selection of the smartphone payment button BJ, the image displayed on terminal 4 transitions from the payment selection screen SCE to a screen related to online payments for transactions using terminal 4. The payment selection screen SCE also displays the accounting machine payment button BK, which can be selected by the user. The accounting machine payment button BK is a button for making payments for transactions using the first accounting machine 5. Based on the selection of the accounting machine payment button BK, the image displayed on terminal 4 transitions from the payment selection screen SCE to a screen related to payments for transactions using the first accounting machine 5.

[0086] (Example of operation) Next, we will explain the processing in the information processing system SY. 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 may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate. Note that the following explanation focusing on terminal 4 may be interpreted as referring to the processor of terminal 4. Similarly, the following explanation focusing on online payment server 3 may be interpreted as referring to the processor of online payment server 3.

[0087] Figure 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the display process for electronic receipts in the information processing system SY. The process of displaying the electronic receipt occurs after the user selects the electronic receipt button BB on the transaction top screen SCA displayed on terminal 4.

[0088] Terminal 4 outputs an electronic receipt display instruction to the transaction management server 1 (ACT1) based on the user's selection of the electronic receipt button BB on the transaction top screen SCA. The electronic receipt display instruction is an instruction to display the electronic receipt on terminal 4. The electronic receipt display instruction includes the shopping member ID. If the shopping member ID and the electronic receipt member ID are not linked, the display instruction may not include the shopping member ID.

[0089] The processor 10 of the transaction management server 1 receives an electronic receipt display instruction from the terminal 4 (ACT2). The processor 10 uses the inquiry API to check with the electronic receipt server 2 whether the shopping member ID included in the electronic receipt display instruction is linked to the electronic receipt member ID (ACT3).

[0090] The processor 20 of the electronic receipt server 2 outputs a response to the transaction management server 1 indicating whether or not the shopping member ID is linked to the electronic receipt member ID (ACT4). In ACT4, for example, the processor 20 checks whether or not the shopping member ID is linked to the electronic receipt member ID based on the data stored in the ID storage area 221.

[0091] The processor 10 of the transaction management server 1 receives a response from the electronic receipt server 2. If the shopping member ID is not linked to the electronic receipt member ID, the processor 10 outputs information to terminal 4 to display the personal authentication screen SCB (ACT 5). If the shopping member ID is linked to the electronic receipt member ID, the processor 10 outputs information to terminal 4 to display the electronic receipt (ACT 6). Terminal 4 may also display the electronic receipt using the in-app browser. Here, terminal 4 outputs the electronic receipt member ID and password stored in terminal 4 to the transaction management server 1, allowing login without user intervention. Therefore, the processor 10 omits the process of displaying the electronic receipt top screen SCD to terminal 4. If terminal 4 does not have an electronic receipt member ID and password stored, the processor 10 outputs information to terminal 4 to display the electronic receipt top screen SCD.

[0092] Figures 12A and 12B are sequence diagrams showing an example of the linking process between shopping member IDs and electronic receipt member IDs in the information processing system SY. The linking process involves storing the linked shopping member IDs and electronic receipt member IDs in either or both of the transaction management server 1 and the electronic receipt server 2. Here, it is assumed that terminal 4 displays the personal authentication screen SCB based on the processing of ACT5 by the processor 10 of the transaction management server 1.

[0093] Terminal 4 outputs its phone number to the transaction management server 1 (ACT10) based on the selection of the send button BC after entering Terminal 4's phone number on the personal authentication screen SCB.

[0094] The linkage processing unit 101 of the transaction management server 1 obtains the phone number from terminal 4 (ACT 11). The linkage processing unit 101 then communicates with the electronic receipt server 2 using the authentication code issuance API (ACT 12).

[0095] The linkage processing unit 201 of the electronic receipt server 2 outputs an authentication code to the telephone number obtained from the transaction management server 1 (ACT13).

[0096] Terminal 4 obtains an authentication code sent to the phone number from the electronic receipt server 2 (ACT14). Terminal 4 outputs the authentication code to the transaction management server 1 based on the selection of the authentication button BD after the authentication code is entered on the personal authentication screen SCB (ACT15).

[0097] The transaction management server 1's integration processing unit 101 interacts with the electronic receipt server 2 via the authentication code check API based on the acquisition of an authentication code from terminal 4 (ACT16).

[0098] The linkage processing unit 201 of the electronic receipt server 2 verifies the validity of the authentication code obtained from terminal 4 by the transaction management server 1 (ACT17). In ACT17, for example, the linkage processing unit 201 compares the authentication code output to the phone number of terminal 4 with the authentication code obtained from terminal 4 by the transaction management server 1. Based on the comparison, the linkage processing unit 201 verifies the validity of the authentication code. The linkage processing unit 201 outputs the verification result to the transaction management server 1 (ACT18). The verification result indicates whether the authentication code is valid or invalid.

[0099] The linkage processing unit 101 of the transaction management server 1 obtains the verification result from the electronic receipt server 2. If the authentication code is valid (indicated as OK in Figure 12A), the linkage processing unit 101 outputs information to terminal 4 to display the linkage confirmation screen SCC (ACT 19). If the authentication code is invalid (indicated as NG in Figure 12A), the linkage processing unit 101 outputs information to terminal 4 to display the personal authentication screen SCB (ACT 20). The user can re-enter the authentication code on the personal authentication screen SCB.

[0100] Terminal 4 displays the linkage confirmation screen SCC based on the processing of ACT19 by the linkage processing unit 101 of the transaction management server 1. Based on the selection of the OK button BF on the linkage confirmation screen SCC, Terminal 4 outputs the shopping member ID set on Terminal 4 to the transaction management server 1 (ACT21).

[0101] The linkage processing unit 101 of the transaction management server 1 obtains the shopping member ID from terminal 4 (ACT22). The linkage processing unit 101 then communicates with the electronic receipt server 2 using the token issuance API (ACT23).

[0102] The integration processing unit 201 of the electronic receipt server 2 issues a token and starts the process of associating the electronic receipt member ID with the shopper member ID obtained from the transaction management server 1 (ACT24). The integration processing unit 201 includes the issued token in the URL (Uniform Resource Locator) parameters and integrates with the transaction management server 1 (ACT25).

[0103] The linkage processing unit 101 of the transaction management server 1 outputs information to terminal 4 to display the electronic receipt top screen SCD on terminal 4 based on the URL parameters (ACT26).

[0104] Terminal 4 displays the electronic receipt top screen SCD. If the user is a member of the electronic receipt service, the user selects the login button BH on the electronic receipt top screen SCD. Based on the user's selection of the login button BH, Terminal 4 displays the login screen (ACT27). Terminal 4 outputs the electronic receipt member ID and password entered by the user on the login screen to the electronic receipt server 2. If the user is not a member of the electronic receipt service, the user selects the new registration button BI on the electronic receipt top screen SCD. Based on the user's selection of the new registration button BI, Terminal 4 displays the new registration screen (ACT28). Terminal 4 outputs the electronic receipt member ID and password for new registration entered by the user on the new registration screen to the electronic receipt server 2. The linkage processing unit 201 of the electronic receipt server 2 associates the electronic receipt member ID obtained from Terminal 4 with the shopping member ID. The linkage processing unit 201 stores the mutually linked shopping member ID and electronic receipt member ID in the ID storage area 221. As a result, the shopping member ID and the electronic receipt member ID are linked. The linking processing unit 101 of the transaction management server 1 retrieves the linked shopping member ID and electronic receipt member ID from the electronic receipt server 2 and stores them in the ID storage area 121.

[0105] As described above, the embodiment allows the shopping app to link a shopping member ID for using the shopping service and an electronic receipt member ID for using the electronic receipt service. This enables the embodiment to link transaction data related to completed transactions using the shopping app to the electronic receipt service, regardless of the payment method used for the transaction.

[0106] Next, we will describe three examples of the process of linking transaction data related to completed transactions to the electronic receipt server 2 in the information processing system SY. In the following, unless otherwise specified, the term "transaction data" refers to transaction data related to completed transactions.

[0107] Figure 13 is a sequence diagram showing a first example of the transaction data linkage process to the electronic receipt server 2 in the information processing system SY. The first example is one in which transaction management server 1 transmits transaction data stored in transaction management server 1 to electronic receipt server 2.

[0108] Terminal 4 outputs a shopping start instruction to the transaction management server 1 (ACT30) based on the selection of the shopping start button BA on the transaction top screen SCA. The shopping start instruction is an instruction to start shopping using the shopping application. The shopping start instruction includes the shopping member ID stored in terminal 4.

[0109] The communication processing unit 102 of the transaction management server 1 receives a shopping start instruction from terminal 4 (ACT 31). The issuing unit 103 issues a first transaction ID for the transaction using terminal 4 (ACT 32). Here, the issuing unit 103 issues a first transaction ID for transaction X. The memory control unit 104 stores the first transaction ID issued by the issuing unit 103 in the transaction data storage area 122. The memory control unit 104 stores the shopping member ID from terminal 4 in the transaction data storage area 122, linking it to the first transaction ID for transaction X. The memory control unit 104 retrieves the electronic receipt member ID linked to the shopping member ID from the ID storage area 121. The memory control unit 104 stores the retrieved electronic receipt member ID in the transaction data storage area 122, linking it to the first transaction ID for transaction X. The communication processing unit 102 outputs a first transaction ID related to transaction X issued by the issuing unit 103 to the terminal 4 (ACT33). The communication processing unit 102 may also output an electronic receipt member ID related to transaction X to the terminal 4.

[0110] Terminal 4 obtains a first transaction ID for transaction X from the transaction management server 1 (ACT34). Terminal 4 stores the obtained first transaction ID for transaction X in an auxiliary storage device. If Terminal 4 obtains an electronic receipt member ID for transaction X, it stores the obtained electronic receipt member ID for transaction X in an auxiliary storage device. Terminal 4 performs product registration for transaction X identified by the first transaction ID based on user operation (ACT35). After the user finishes product registration using Terminal 4, the user settles the transaction. The user shall select online payment for the transaction using Terminal 4 as the settlement method. Terminal 4 outputs an online payment start instruction to the online payment server 3 based on the selection of the smartphone payment button BJ on the payment selection screen SCE (ACT36). The online payment start instruction is an instruction to start online payment for the transaction using Terminal 4. The online payment start instruction may include identification information related to transaction X, such as a shopping member ID, electronic receipt member ID, or first transaction ID.

[0111] The online payment server 3 receives an online payment initiation instruction from terminal 4 (ACT37). The online payment server 3 may also obtain amount information for transaction X from transaction management server 1 based on the first transaction ID included in the online payment initiation instruction. The online payment server 3 may also obtain amount information for transaction X associated with the online payment initiation instruction from terminal 4. The online payment server 3 communicates with terminal 4 and the payment center corresponding to the payment method selected by the user, and processes the online payment for the transaction using terminal 4 for the amount indicated by the obtained amount information (ACT38). Based on the completion of the online payment for the transaction using terminal 4, the online payment server 3 outputs an online payment completion notification to terminal 4 (ACT39). The online payment completion notification indicates the completion of the online payment for the transaction using terminal 4.

[0112] Terminal 4 receives an online payment completion notification from the online payment server 3 (ACT40). The user finishes shopping using the shopping app upon completion of the transaction.

[0113] The communication processing unit 102 of the transaction management server 1 outputs a query for the transaction settlement status to the online settlement server 3 (ACT41). In ACT41, for example, the communication processing unit 102 repeatedly outputs a query for the transaction settlement status to the online settlement server 3 at regular intervals. The transaction settlement status is the status of the online settlement of the transaction using terminal 4. The query for settlement status includes a request for the settlement status. The query for settlement status may also include identification information related to transaction X, such as the shopper member ID, electronic receipt member ID, or first transaction ID.

[0114] Online payment server 3 obtains the transaction settlement status query from transaction management server 1 (ACT42).

[0115] Online payment server 3 outputs the transaction settlement status to transaction management server 1 as a response to an inquiry about the transaction settlement status (ACT43). Until online settlement of the transaction using terminal 4 is completed, online payment server 3 outputs a notification to transaction management server 1 that includes the transaction being unsettled as the transaction settlement status. After online settlement of the transaction using terminal 4 is completed, online payment server 3 outputs a notification to transaction management server 1 that includes the transaction settlement completion as the transaction settlement status. The notification may include identification information related to transaction X, such as the shopper member ID, electronic receipt member ID, or first transaction ID.

[0116] The communication processing unit 102 of the transaction management server 1 obtains the settlement status of the transaction from the online settlement server 3 (ACT44). In ACT44, for example, until the online settlement of a transaction using terminal 4 is completed, the communication processing unit 102 obtains a notification from the online settlement server 3 that includes the transaction as unsettled as the settlement status of the transaction. After the online settlement of a transaction using terminal 4 is completed, the communication processing unit 102 obtains a notification from the online settlement server 3 that includes the transaction as settled as the settlement status of the transaction.

[0117] If the settlement status of a transaction is "Transaction settlement completed," the communication processing unit 102 outputs the transaction data related to transaction X, the first transaction ID, and the electronic receipt member ID to the electronic receipt server 2 (ACT45). In ACT45, for example, the communication processing unit 102 refers to the identification information related to transaction X included in the notification from the online settlement server 3. The communication processing unit 102 outputs the transaction data related to transaction X, the first transaction ID, and the electronic receipt member ID stored in the transaction data storage area 122 to the electronic receipt server 2. The transaction data related to transaction X, the first transaction ID related to transaction X, and the electronic receipt member ID related to transaction X are linked to each other.

[0118] The communication processing unit 202 of the electronic receipt server 2 obtains transaction data, a first transaction ID, and an electronic receipt member ID related to transaction X from the transaction management server 1 (ACT46). The memory control unit 203 stores the transaction data, the first transaction ID, and the electronic receipt member ID from the transaction management server 1 in the electronic receipt storage area 222 (ACT47). The processor 20 generates electronic receipt data based on the transaction data. The electronic receipt data includes a first transaction ID related to transaction X. The processor 20 associates the generated electronic receipt data with the first transaction ID related to transaction X and stores it in the electronic receipt storage area 222. As a result, the electronic receipt storage area 222 stores the electronic receipt member ID, the first transaction ID, transaction data, and electronic receipt data related to transaction X.

[0119] Figure 14 is a sequence diagram showing an example of return processing in the information processing system SY. This section describes the return processing at the first accounting machine 5, which relates to the first example. The first accounting machine 5 is an example of a device that processes returns in a transaction. Transaction X, which has already been settled, is the target of the return. The user shall use the electronic receipt service to display an electronic receipt on terminal 4 that includes the first transaction ID for the settled transaction X that is the target of the return.

[0120] The return processing unit 503 of the first accounting machine 5 accepts input of a first transaction ID relating to transaction X (ACT 50). In ACT 50, for example, the return processing unit 503 may accept input of a first transaction ID obtained from a code symbol based on the reading of a code symbol displayed on the terminal 4 by the scanner 55. The return processing unit 503 may also accept input of a first transaction ID based on an input operation of the first transaction ID using the input device 58. Based on the input of the first transaction ID, the communication processing unit 501 outputs a query for transaction data associated with the first transaction ID relating to transaction X to the transaction management server 1 (ACT 51). The query for transaction data includes a request for transaction data. The query for transaction data includes the first transaction ID relating to transaction X.

[0121] The communication processing unit 102 of the transaction management server 1 receives a transaction data inquiry from the first accounting machine 5 (ACT 52). In response to the transaction data inquiry, the communication processing unit 102 outputs the transaction data related to transaction X, which is associated with the first transaction ID related to transaction X, the first transaction ID, and the electronic receipt member ID to the first accounting machine 5 (ACT 53).

[0122] The communication processing unit 501 of the first accounting machine 5 obtains transaction data, the first transaction ID, and the electronic receipt member ID related to transaction X from the transaction management server 1 (ACT 54). The storage control unit 504 stores the transaction data, the first transaction ID, and the electronic receipt member ID related to transaction X in the auxiliary storage device 52 (ACT 55). The return processing unit 503 processes the return in transaction X based on the transaction data related to transaction X (ACT 56). In ACT 56, for example, the return processing unit 503 generates return information related to the return based on the return processing. The return information includes information about the returned goods. For example, the information about the returned goods includes the product ID and quantity of the returned goods. The return information includes the first transaction ID related to transaction X. The communication processing unit 501 outputs the return information to the electronic receipt server 2 based on the return processing by the return processing unit 503 (ACT 57).

[0123] The communication processing unit 202 of the electronic receipt server 2 obtains return information from the first accounting machine 5 (ACT 58). The memory control unit 203 updates the transaction data related to transaction X based on the return information (ACT 59). In ACT 59, for example, the memory control unit 203 searches the electronic receipt storage area 222 for transaction data related to transaction X that is linked to the first transaction ID related to transaction X included in the return information. The memory control unit 203 reflects the information of the returned goods included in the return information onto the retrieved transaction data related to transaction X. The memory control unit 203 updates the transaction data related to transaction X based on the updated transaction data related to transaction X.

[0124] In ACT51, the communication processing unit 501 of the first accounting machine 5 outputs a query to the transaction management server 1 based on the input of the first transaction ID, but is not limited to this. The communication processing unit 501 may periodically output a query to the transaction management server 1 without requiring the input of the first transaction ID. In this example, the query is a query for transaction data that does not specify transactions that have been settled. For each transaction, the communication processing unit 501 obtains the electronic receipt member ID, the first transaction ID, and transaction data from the transaction management server 1. The storage control unit 504 stores the electronic receipt member ID, the first transaction ID, and transaction data in the auxiliary storage device 52 for each transaction. As a result, the auxiliary storage device 52 stores the electronic receipt member ID, the first transaction ID, and transaction data for each transaction. The electronic receipt member ID, the first transaction ID, and the transaction data are linked to each other.

[0125] According to the first example, if the transaction management server 1 determines that the settlement status for online settlement of transaction X using terminal 4 is "settlement completed," it outputs transaction data related to transaction X to the electronic receipt server 2. As a result, the transaction management server 1 can link transaction data related to transaction X to the electronic receipt server 2, even when a user makes an online payment for transaction X using terminal 4.

[0126] Transaction management server 1 obtains the settlement status of transactions from online settlement server 3. As a result, the transaction management server 1 can confirm the completion of transaction X even when the user makes an online payment for transaction X using terminal 4. Therefore, the transaction management server 1 can link transaction data related to completed transaction X to the electronic receipt server 2.

[0127] Transaction management server 1 repeatedly outputs queries for the settlement status of transactions to online settlement server 3. This allows the transaction management server 1 to confirm the completion of transaction X.

[0128] The transaction management server 1 outputs a first transaction ID of the code system usable by the first accounting machine 5 to the electronic receipt server 2. This allows the transaction management server 1 to manage transaction data in the electronic receipt server 2, linked to the first transaction ID available on the first accounting machine 5. The electronic receipt server 2 makes electronic receipts containing the first transaction ID for completed transactions that are subject to return viewable on the terminal 4. Therefore, the first accounting machine 5 can process returns using the first transaction ID. Based on the return processing, the first accounting machine 5 can update the transaction data linked to the first transaction ID stored in the electronic receipt server 2. Users can view the electronic receipts that have been updated based on the transaction data update.

[0129] Figure 15 is a sequence diagram showing a second example of the transaction data linkage process to the electronic receipt server 2 in the information processing system SY. The second example is one in which the first accounting machine 5 links transaction data stored in the transaction management server 1 to the electronic receipt server 2.

[0130] The processing of ACT60 to A65 is the same as the processing of ACT30 to ACT35 described above, so these explanations will be omitted. After the user finishes registering products using terminal 4, the user settles the transaction. The settlement method for the transaction is assumed to be settlement using the first accounting machine 5. The user selects the accounting machine settlement button BK on the settlement selection screen SCE.

[0131] The settlement processing unit 502 of the first accounting machine 5 starts the settlement process of a transaction based on user operation using the input device 58 (ACT66). In ACT66, for example, the settlement processing unit 502 obtains a first transaction ID for transaction X based on the reading of a code symbol displayed on the terminal 4 by the scanner 55. Based on the settlement of transaction X initiated by the settlement processing unit 502, the communication processing unit 501 outputs a query to the transaction management server 1 for transaction data associated with the first transaction ID for transaction X contained in the code symbol (ACT67). The query for transaction data includes the first transaction ID for transaction X.

[0132] The communication processing unit 102 of the transaction management server 1 receives a transaction data inquiry from the first accounting machine 5 (ACT68). In response to the transaction data inquiry, the communication processing unit 102 outputs the transaction data related to transaction X, the first transaction ID, and the electronic receipt member ID to the first accounting machine 5 (ACT69).

[0133] The communication processing unit 501 of the first accounting machine 5 obtains transaction data, the first transaction ID, and the electronic receipt member ID related to transaction X from the transaction management server 1 based on the settlement processing unit 502 initiating the settlement of transaction X (ACT70). The settlement processing unit 502 settles the payment by settling transaction X according to the acquired transaction data related to transaction X based on the user's operation of the input / output interface 54 (ACT71). The settlement of transaction X can be done using the first accounting machine 5, and may be an online settlement or an offline settlement with cash. Based on the completion of the settlement of transaction X by the settlement processing unit 502, the communication processing unit 501 outputs the transaction data, the first transaction ID, and the electronic receipt member ID related to transaction X obtained from the transaction management server 1 to the electronic receipt server 2 (ACT72).

[0134] The communication processing unit 202 of the electronic receipt server 2 obtains transaction data, a first transaction ID, and an electronic receipt member ID related to transaction X from the first accounting machine 5 (ACT73). The memory control unit 203 stores the transaction data, the first transaction ID, and the electronic receipt member ID from the first accounting machine 5 in the electronic receipt storage area 222 (ACT74). The processor 20 generates electronic receipt data based on the transaction data. The electronic receipt data includes a first transaction ID related to transaction X. The processor 20 associates the generated electronic receipt data with the first transaction ID related to transaction X and stores it in the electronic receipt storage area 222. As a result, the electronic receipt storage area 222 stores the electronic receipt member ID, the first transaction ID, transaction data, and electronic receipt data related to transaction X.

[0135] The return processing at the first accounting machine 5 related to the second example is the same as the return processing at the first accounting machine 5 related to the first example explained using Figure 14, so its explanation will be omitted.

[0136] According to the second example, the first accounting machine 5 obtains transaction data related to transaction X from the transaction management server 1 based on the start of settlement of transaction X, and outputs the obtained transaction data related to transaction X to the electronic receipt server 2 based on the completion of settlement of transaction X. As a result, the first accounting machine 5 can link transaction data related to transaction X to the electronic receipt server 2, even when a user settles transaction X using the first accounting machine 5.

[0137] The first accounting machine 5 obtains a first transaction ID for transaction X from the transaction management server 1 and outputs the obtained first transaction ID for transaction X to the electronic receipt server 2. As a result, the first accounting machine 5 does not need to issue a new transaction ID different from the first transaction ID when outputting transaction data to the electronic receipt server 2. Therefore, the processing load on the first accounting machine 5 is reduced.

[0138] The first accounting machine 5 outputs a first transaction ID of the code system usable by the first accounting machine 5 to the electronic receipt server 2. This allows the first accounting machine 5 to manage transaction data in the electronic receipt server 2, linked to a first transaction ID available on the first accounting machine 5. The electronic receipt server 2 can make electronic receipts containing the first transaction ID for completed transactions that are subject to return viewable on terminal 4. Therefore, the first accounting machine 5 can process returns using the first transaction ID. Based on the return processing, the first accounting machine 5 can update the transaction data linked to the first transaction ID stored in the electronic receipt server 2. Users can view the electronic receipts that have been updated based on the transaction data update.

[0139] Figures 16A and 16B are sequence diagrams showing a third example of the transaction data linkage process to the electronic receipt server 2 in the information processing system SY. The third example is one in which the second accounting machine 6 links transaction data stored in the transaction management server 1 to the electronic receipt server 2. The processing of ACT80 to A90 is the same as that of ACT30 to ACT40 described above, so we will omit the explanation of these processes.

[0140] The issuing unit 605 of the second accounting machine 6 issues a second transaction ID (ACT91). The communication processing unit 601 repeatedly outputs transaction data queries to the transaction management server 1 (ACT92). The transaction data queries do not specify which transactions have already been settled.

[0141] The communication processing unit 102 of the transaction management server 1 obtains a transaction data query from the second accounting machine 6 (ACT93). In response to the transaction data query, the communication processing unit 102 outputs the transaction data, the first transaction ID, and the electronic receipt member ID associated with specific settlement status information to the second accounting machine 6 (ACT94). The specific settlement status information is settlement status information that indicates the completion of the transaction settlement and includes information indicating online settlement of the transaction using terminal 4 as the settlement method. Here, the communication processing unit 102 outputs the transaction data, the first transaction ID, and the electronic receipt member ID related to transaction X to the second accounting machine 6. Here, the settlement status information associated with transaction X indicates the completion of the transaction settlement, as described above. Therefore, after the online settlement of transaction X using terminal 4 is completed, the communication processing unit 102 outputs the transaction data, the first transaction ID, and the electronic receipt member ID related to transaction X to the second accounting machine 6.

[0142] The communication processing unit 601 of the second accounting machine 6 obtains transaction data, the first transaction ID, and the electronic receipt member ID related to transaction X from the transaction management server 1 after the online settlement of transaction X using terminal 4 is completed (ACT95).

[0143] The memory control unit 604 associates the transaction data, the first transaction ID, and the electronic receipt member ID related to transaction X with the second transaction ID issued by the issuing unit 605 and stores them in the auxiliary storage device 62. The second transaction ID, which is associated with the first transaction ID related to transaction X, can be said to be the transaction ID related to transaction X. As a result, the auxiliary storage device 62 stores the electronic receipt member ID, the first transaction ID, the second transaction ID, and the transaction data for each transaction. For example, the auxiliary storage device 62 stores the electronic receipt member ID, the first transaction ID, the second transaction ID, and the transaction data for transaction X. The electronic receipt member ID, the first transaction ID, the second transaction ID, and the transaction data are all linked to each other. The communication processing unit 601 outputs an import result notification to the transaction management server 1 (ACT97). The import result notification is a notification indicating that the second accounting machine 6 has successfully saved the transaction data. The import result notification may include a first transaction ID and a second transaction ID related to transaction X, which are linked to each other.

[0144] The communication processing unit 102 of the transaction management server 1 receives an import result notification from the second accounting machine 6 (ACT98). If the import result notification includes a first transaction ID and a second transaction ID related to transaction X, the storage control unit 104 associates the second transaction ID related to transaction X with the first transaction ID related to transaction X and stores it in the transaction data storage area 122. As a result, the transaction data storage area 122 stores the first transaction ID, the second transaction ID, the shopper member ID, the electronic receipt member ID, the transaction data, and the settlement status information for each transaction. For example, the transaction data storage area 122 stores the first transaction ID, the second transaction ID, the shopper member ID, the electronic receipt member ID, the transaction data, and the settlement status information for transaction X.

[0145] The communication processing unit 601 of the second accounting machine 6 outputs transaction data related to transaction X, the second transaction ID, and the electronic receipt member ID to the electronic receipt server 2 (ACT100). The transaction data related to transaction X, the second transaction ID, and the electronic receipt member ID are all linked to each other.

[0146] The communication processing unit 202 of the electronic receipt server 2 obtains transaction data, a second transaction ID, and an electronic receipt member ID related to transaction X from the second accounting machine 6 (ACT101). The memory control unit 203 stores the transaction data, second transaction ID, and electronic receipt member ID from the second accounting machine 6 in the electronic receipt storage area 222 (ACT102). The processor 20 generates electronic receipt data based on the transaction data. The electronic receipt data includes a second transaction ID related to transaction X. The processor 20 associates the generated electronic receipt data with the second transaction ID related to transaction X and stores it in the electronic receipt storage area 222. As a result, the electronic receipt storage area 222 stores the electronic receipt member ID, second transaction ID, transaction data, and electronic receipt data related to transaction X.

[0147] In ACT91, the issuing unit 605 of the second accounting machine 6 issues the second transaction ID before the communication processing unit 601 processes ACT95, but the timing of issuance is not limited to this. The issuing unit 605 may issue the second transaction ID after confirming the completion of online settlement of the new transaction X using terminal 4. In other words, the issuing unit 605 may issue the second transaction ID after the communication processing unit 601 processes ACT95. In ACT94, the communication processing unit 102 of the transaction management server 1 outputs data to the second accounting machine 6 as a response to inquiries about transaction data, but is not limited to this. The communication processing unit 102 may also autonomously output data associated with specific settlement status information to the second accounting machine 6 when the settlement status information for any transaction is updated to specific settlement status information.

[0148] Figure 17 is a sequence diagram showing another example of return processing in the information processing system SY. This section describes the return processing at the second accounting machine 6, which relates to the third example. The second accounting machine 6 is an example of a device that processes returns in a transaction. Transaction X, which has already been settled, is the target of the return. The user shall use the electronic receipt service to display an electronic receipt on terminal 4 that includes the second transaction ID for the settled transaction X that is the target of the return.

[0149] The return processing unit 603 of the second accounting machine 6 accepts input of a second transaction ID relating to transaction X (ACT110). In ACT110, for example, the return processing unit 603 may accept input of a second transaction ID obtained from a code symbol based on the reading of the code symbol displayed on the terminal 4 by the scanner 65. The return processing unit 603 may also accept input of a second transaction ID based on an input operation of the second transaction ID using the input device 68.

[0150] The return processing unit 603 processes the return of transaction X based on the transaction data relating to transaction X, which is identified by a second transaction ID stored in the auxiliary storage device 62 (ACT111). In ACT111, for example, the return processing unit 603 generates return information based on the return processing. The return information includes a second transaction ID relating to transaction X. The communication processing unit 601 outputs the return information to the electronic receipt server 2 based on the return processing by the return processing unit 603 (ACT112).

[0151] The communication processing unit 202 of the electronic receipt server 2 obtains return information from the second accounting machine 6 (ACT 113). The memory control unit 203 updates the transaction data related to transaction X based on the return information (ACT 114). In ACT 114, for example, the memory control unit 203 searches the electronic receipt storage area 222 for transaction data related to transaction X that is linked to the second transaction ID related to transaction X included in the return information. The memory control unit 203 reflects the information of the returned goods included in the return information onto the retrieved transaction data related to transaction X. The memory control unit 203 updates the transaction data related to transaction X based on the updated transaction data related to transaction X.

[0152] In ACT111, the return processing unit 603 processes returns for transaction X based on transaction data stored in the auxiliary storage device 62, but is not limited to this. The return processing unit 603 may also process returns for transaction X based on transaction data stored in the auxiliary storage device 12 of the transaction management server 1.

[0153] According to the third example, after the online settlement of transaction X using terminal 4 is completed, the second accounting machine 6 outputs the transaction data obtained from the transaction management server 1 and the issued second transaction ID to the electronic receipt server 2. As a result, the second accounting machine 6 can link transaction data related to transaction X to the electronic receipt server 2, even when the user makes an online payment for transaction X using terminal 4. Furthermore, even if the first transaction ID issued by the transaction management server 1 is an ID system that cannot be used by the second accounting machine 6, the second accounting machine 6 can link it to a second transaction ID that can be used by the second accounting machine 6 and have the transaction data managed on the electronic receipt server 2. The electronic receipt server 2 can make electronic receipts containing the second transaction ID related to completed transactions that are subject to return viewable on terminal 4. Therefore, the second accounting machine 6 can process returns using the second transaction ID.

[0154] The second accounting machine 6 repeatedly outputs transaction data queries to the transaction management server 1. As a result, the second accounting machine 6 can obtain transaction data for completed transactions from the transaction management server 1, even when a user makes an online payment for transaction X using terminal 4. Therefore, the second accounting machine 6 can link the transaction data for completed transactions to the electronic receipt server 2.

[0155] Transaction management server 1 repeatedly outputs queries for the settlement status of transactions to online settlement server 3. This allows the transaction management server 1 to confirm the completion of transaction X.

[0156] The second accounting machine 6 processes the return in transaction X identified by the second transaction ID based on the input of the second transaction ID, and outputs the return information, including the second transaction ID, to the electronic receipt server 2. This allows the second accounting machine 6 to update the transaction data linked to the second transaction ID stored in the electronic receipt server 2 based on the return processing. The user can then view the updated electronic receipt based on the updated transaction data.

[0157] The first transaction ID, which is linked to the transaction data stored in the transaction management server 1, is a code system that is not available for use by the second accounting machine 6. This allows the second accounting machine 6 to manage transaction data on the electronic receipt server 2 by linking it to a second transaction ID available on the second accounting machine 6, rather than the first transaction ID. Therefore, the second accounting machine 6 can process returns using the second transaction ID available on the second accounting machine 6.

[0158] (effect) According to this embodiment, the transaction management server 1, the first accounting machine 5, or the second accounting machine 6 can link transaction data related to completed transactions to the electronic receipt server 2, regardless of the transaction settlement method.

[0159] The above-described embodiments may be represented as follows: [A1] A storage unit that stores transaction data related to transactions based on product registration by the user using a terminal, An acquisition unit that acquires the status of online settlement of the transaction using the terminal, If the status is that the transaction has been settled, the output unit outputs the transaction data to the electronic receipt device. A transaction management device equipped with the following features. [A2] The transaction management device according to [A1], wherein the acquisition unit acquires the status from an online payment device with which the terminal communicates for the online payment. [A3] The transaction management device according to [A1] or [A2], wherein the output unit repeatedly outputs the status inquiry to the online payment device. [A4] The transaction code relating to the said transaction is a code system usable by the device that processes returns in said transaction, The output unit outputs the transaction code to the electronic receipt device. A transaction management device as described in any of [A1] to [A3]. [A5] The computer of the transaction management device that stores transaction data related to transactions based on product registration by the user using a terminal, A function to obtain the status of online settlement of the transaction using the aforementioned terminal, If the status is that the transaction has been settled, the system has a function to output the transaction data to an electronic receipt device. A program that can execute [this action].

[0160] [B1] A settlement processing unit that processes the settlement of transactions based on product registration by the user using a terminal, Based on the commencement of settlement of the aforementioned transaction, an acquisition unit acquires the transaction data from a transaction management device that stores transaction data related to the aforementioned transaction, Based on the completion of settlement of the aforementioned transaction, an output unit outputs the transaction data to an electronic receipt device, An accounting device equipped with the following features. [B2] The acquisition unit acquires the transaction code relating to the transaction from the transaction management device, The accounting device according to [B1], wherein the output unit outputs the transaction code to an electronic receipt device. [B3] The accounting device described in [B1] or [B2], wherein the transaction code is a code system usable by the accounting machine. [B4] On the computer, A function that processes settlements for transactions based on product registration by users using their devices, Based on the commencement of settlement of the aforementioned transaction, a function to acquire the transaction data from a transaction management device that stores transaction data related to the aforementioned transaction, Based on the completion of the settlement of the aforementioned transaction, the function outputs the transaction data to an electronic receipt device, A program that can execute [this action].

[0161] [C1] After the online settlement of a transaction based on product registration by the user using a terminal is completed, an acquisition unit acquires the transaction data and the first transaction code from a transaction management device that stores the transaction data and the first transaction code related to the transaction, An issuing unit that issues a second transaction code having a different code system from the first transaction code, An output unit that outputs the transaction data and the second transaction code to an electronic receipt device, An information processing device equipped with the following features. [C2] The information processing device described in [C1], wherein the online payment is a payment that does not go through an accounting machine, based on communication between the terminal and the online payment device. [C3] The first transaction code is a code system that is not available for use by the information processing device, as described in [C1] or [C2]. [C4] The second transaction code is a code system with fewer digits than the first transaction code, as described in any of [C1] to [C3]. [C5] The output unit is an information processing device according to any one of [C1] to [C4], which repeatedly outputs transaction data inquiries to the transaction management device. [C6] The system further comprises a return processing unit that processes a return in the transaction based on the input of the second transaction code, The output unit outputs the return information, including the second transaction code, to the electronic receipt device. An information processing device described in any of [C1] to [C5]. [C7] To the computer, A function to retrieve transaction data and a first transaction code from a transaction management device that stores transaction data and a first transaction code related to a transaction after the completion of online payment for a transaction based on product registration by the user using a terminal, A function to issue a second transaction code with a different code system from the first transaction code described above, A function to output the aforementioned transaction data and the second transaction code to an electronic receipt device, A program that can execute [this action].

[0162] (Other embodiments) The transaction management system may be implemented as a single device or as multiple devices with distributed functions. The accounting system may be implemented as a single device or as multiple devices with distributed functions. The information processing system may be implemented as a single device or as multiple devices with distributed functions.

[0163] The embodiments described above may apply not only to the apparatus but also to the methods performed by the apparatus. The embodiments described above may apply to a program that can cause the computer of the apparatus to perform each function. The embodiments described above may apply to a recording medium that stores the program.

[0164] The program may be transferred while stored in the device according to the embodiment, or it may be transferred without being stored in the 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.

[0165] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of 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. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0166] 1...Transaction management server, 2...Electronic receipt server, 3...Online payment server, 4...Terminal, 5...First accounting machine, 6...Second accounting machine, 10...Processor, 11...Main memory, 12...Auxiliary storage device, 13...Communication interface, 20...Processor, 21...Main memory, 22...Auxiliary storage device, 23...Communication interface, 50...Processor, 51...Main memory, 52...Auxiliary storage device, 53...Communication interface, 54...Input / output interface, 55...Scanner, 56...Change dispenser, 57...Printing device, 58...Input device, 59...Display device, 60...Processor, 61...Main memory, 62...Auxiliary storage device, 63...Communication interface, 64...Input / output interface, 65...Scanner, 66...Change dispenser, 67...Printing device, 68...Input device, 69...Display device, 101...Cooperation processing unit, 10 2...Communication Processing Unit, 103...Issuance Unit, 104...Storage Control Unit, 121...ID Storage Area, 122...Transaction Data Storage Area, 201...Linkage Processing Unit, 202...Communication Processing Unit, 203...Storage Control Unit, 501...Communication Processing Unit, 502...Settlement Processing Unit, 503...Return Processing Unit, 504...Storage Control Unit, 601...Communication Processing Unit, 602...Settlement Processing Unit, 603...Return Processing Unit, 604...Storage Control Unit, 605...Issuance Unit, BA...Start Shopping Button, BB...Electronic Receipt Button, BC...Send Button, BD...Authentication Button, BE...Back Button, BF...OK Button, BG...Back Button, BH...Login Button, BI...New Registration Button, BJ...Smartphone Payment Button, BK...Accounting Machine Payment Button, SCA...Transaction Top Screen, SCB...Personal Authentication Screen, SCC...Linkage Confirmation Screen, SCD...Electronic Receipt Top Screen, SCE...Payment Selection Screen, ST...Store, SY...Information Processing System.

Claims

1. An acquisition unit that, after the completion of online payment for a transaction based on product registration by a user using a terminal, acquires the transaction data and the first transaction code from a transaction management device that stores the transaction data and the first transaction code related to the transaction, An issuing unit that issues a second transaction code having a different code system from the first transaction code, An output unit that outputs the transaction data and the second transaction code to an electronic receipt device, An information processing device equipped with the following features.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the online payment is a payment that does not go through an accounting machine, based on communication between the terminal and the online payment device.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first transaction code is a code system that is not available for use by the information processing apparatus.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second transaction code is a code system with fewer digits than the first transaction code.

5. The system further includes a return processing unit that processes returns in the transaction based on the input of the second transaction code, The output unit outputs the return information, including the second transaction code, to the electronic receipt device. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2.

6. On the computer, A function to retrieve transaction data and a first transaction code from a transaction management device that stores transaction data and a first transaction code related to a transaction after the completion of online payment for a transaction based on product registration by the user using a terminal, A function to issue a second transaction code with a different code system from the first transaction code, A function to output the aforementioned transaction data and the second transaction code to an electronic receipt device, A program that can execute [this action].

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