Information processing device and transaction management system

Abstract

The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an information processing device and a transaction management system capable of facilitating an attendant's check operation. An information processing device of an embodiment is an information processing device capable of communicating with a management device that corresponds and manages transaction specific information specifying one transaction, transaction information indicating the details of a product registered in the one transaction, status information indicating the status of a customer performing the registration of the product, and check completion information registered when a clerk's check is completed for a product registered by the customer's operation. The device comprises a first display means for displaying a first screen that lists the customer's status information regarding each transaction managed by the management device, a receiving means for receiving an operation specifying a specific transaction, and a second display means for displaying a second screen that includes an operator for receiving a check operation by the clerk, along with displaying transaction information of the specific transaction. The second display means displays the second screen in which the operator is made valid or invalid according to the operation method received by the receiving means.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an information processing device and a transaction management system. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, systems in which customers themselves register products at the sales counter have been adopted in stores such as supermarkets. As such a system, for example, a shopping cart equipped with a tablet terminal and a scanner has been proposed (e.g., Patent Document 1).

[0003] A customer shopping scans a code symbol, such as a barcode (hereinafter also referred to as a "product barcode") attached to the product being purchased at the store's sales counter using a scanner. Based on the product code read by the scanner, product registration is performed, and the registered product information (product name, price, etc.) is stored on a tablet terminal or the store server. The above product information is then transmitted to an accounting machine that performs accounting processing when the customer makes a payment. The customer makes the payment at the accounting machine they operate.

[0004] In addition, a system is being adopted that allows customers to shop using their own mobile devices, such as smartphones, instead of the tablet terminals or scanners provided by the store. In this system, a shopping application program is installed on the customer's smartphone. Then, the product barcode is captured by the smartphone's camera, and the product code is read.

[0005] Stores employing the above system generally station employees in the accounting area where accounting machines are installed. The employees stationed in the accounting area (hereinafter also referred to as "attendants") perform tasks such as checking items purchased by customers and assisting with the operation of accounting machines for customers. The tasks performed by attendants vary from store to store depending on the operation, but examples include verifying a customer's age when the purchased items include products requiring age verification.

[0006] The attendant performs checks at the location of the accounting machine where the customer is making a payment. For example, if the items purchased by the customer include products requiring age verification, the call lamp on the accounting machine lights up, and the attendant moves to that machine to verify the customer's age. Consequently, the attendant had to move to the accounting machine every time, making the check process cumbersome. Prior art literature

[0007] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-67947 The problem to be solved

[0008] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide an information processing device and a transaction management system capable of facilitating attendant check operations. means of solving the problem

[0009] The information processing device of the embodiment is an information processing device capable of communicating with a management device that manages transaction-specific information for specifying one transaction, transaction information indicating the details of a product registered as said transaction, status information indicating the status of a customer performing the registration of said product, and check-complete information registered when a check by a clerk is completed for a product registered by said customer's operation, and comprises a first display means for displaying a first screen that lists the customer's status information regarding each transaction managed by said management device, a receiving means for receiving an operation for specifying a specific transaction, and a second display means for displaying a second screen that includes an operator for receiving a check operation by said clerk while also displaying transaction information of said specific transaction, and said second display means displays said second screen in which the operator is made valid or invalid according to the operation method received by said receiving means. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0010] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic of a transaction management system in an embodiment. Figure 2 is a drawing illustrating an example of an accounting area of ​​a store employing a transaction management system in an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the main hardware configuration of a server device in an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data configuration of a product master stored in the memory of a server device in an embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data configuration of a terminal management table stored in the memory of a server device in an embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data configuration of a highlight information management table stored in the memory of a server device in an embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data configuration of a transaction information management table stored in the memory of a server device in an embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data configuration of a mode management table stored in the memory of a server device in an embodiment. FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the main functional configuration of the control unit of a server device in an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the main hardware configuration of a mobile terminal in an embodiment. FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the main functional configuration of a control unit of a mobile terminal in an embodiment. FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the main hardware configuration of an attendant PC in an embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data configuration of a status management table stored in the memory of an attendant PC in an embodiment. FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the main functional configuration of the control unit of an attendant PC in an embodiment. FIG. 15 is a sequence chart showing an example of the operation flow of a transaction management system in an embodiment. FIG. 16 is a drawing illustrating an example of a transaction information display screen displayed by a mobile terminal in an embodiment. FIG. 17 is a drawing illustrating an example of a transaction list screen displayed by an attendant PC in an embodiment. FIG. 18 is a drawing illustrating an example of an attendant check screen displayed by a mobile terminal in an embodiment. FIG. 19 is a drawing illustrating an example of a transaction specification screen displayed by an attendant PC in an embodiment. FIG. 20 is a drawing illustrating an example of a guidance screen displayed by an attendant PC in an embodiment. FIG. 21 is a drawing illustrating an example of an accounting screen displayed by a mobile terminal in an embodiment. FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing a transaction specification screen display by the control unit of the attendant PC in an embodiment. FIG. 23 is a drawing illustrating an example of a transaction specification screen for viewing displayed by an attendant PC in an embodiment. FIG. 24 is a sequence chart showing an example of the flow of transaction editing processing performed between an attendant PC and a server device in an embodiment. FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of an attendant check determination process by the control unit of a server device in an embodiment. FIG. 26 is a drawing illustrating an example of a highlight setting screen displayed by an attendant PC in an embodiment. FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of attendant check processing by the control unit of the accounting machine in a modified example. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0011] Hereinafter, an information processing device and a transaction management system of an embodiment are described. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited by the embodiments described below. For example, in the embodiments described below, an example is described in which the information processing device is a terminal device operated by a store clerk (hereinafter also referred to as an attendant terminal), but it is not limited thereto. The information processing device may be a device such as a server device that manages information for one or more stores, or it may be another device provided within the store. Furthermore, in the embodiments described below, an example is described in which the portable terminal used for product registration is an information terminal owned by the customer, but it is not limited thereto. The portable terminal may be an information terminal prepared by the store. Furthermore, product registration refers to storing (registering) information about a product purchased by a customer.

[0012] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a transaction management system will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic of a transaction management system (1). The transaction management system (1) is used in a store selling goods, such as a supermarket. The transaction management system (1) has a server device (2) and a mobile self-settlement system (3). The server device (2) and the mobile self-settlement system (3) are connected to each other so as to communicate through a network such as the Internet.

[0013] The mobile self-checkout system (3) is a system adopted in one store and has a portable terminal (4) carried by the customer, a checkout machine (5), and an attendant PC (6). The portable terminal (4), the checkout machine (5), and the attendant PC (6) are connected to communicate with each other through an in-store network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) via wired or wireless means. Additionally, the portable terminal (4), the checkout machine (5), and the attendant PC (6) are connected to communicate with a server device (2) through the in-store network.

[0014] Additionally, the mobile terminal (4) may be able to communicate with the server device (2) without going through the in-store network. Additionally, various separate devices may be connected to the in-store network. For example, a POS terminal where a clerk performs operations regarding product registration and payment, a self-service POS terminal where a customer performs operations regarding product registration and payment, and a semi-self-service POS system where a clerk performs operations regarding product registration and a customer performs operations regarding payment may be connected to the in-store network. Additionally, the number of mobile terminals (4) and accounting machines (5) is not limited to the examples shown.

[0015] The server device (2) is, for example, a store server. The server device (2) receives store entry information from a mobile terminal (4). The store entry information includes the corporate code or store code of the store where the customer is located. By receiving store entry information from the mobile terminal (4), the server device (2) can identify the store where the mobile terminal (4) is located. The server device (2) issues a terminal code and a transaction code to the mobile terminal (4) that transmitted the store entry information and transmits them to the mobile terminal (4). The terminal code is terminal-specific information that identifies the mobile terminal (4), and the transaction code is transaction-specific information that identifies the transaction.

[0016] Additionally, the server device (2) transmits mode information to the mobile terminal (4). The mode information is information indicating the mode of the mobile self-checkout system (3) at the store where the customer is located. Details of the mode information will be described later.

[0017] When a mobile terminal (4) transmits various information to a server device (2), the server device (2) can easily identify the mobile terminal (4) of the information sender by transmitting the terminal code. In addition, in this embodiment, multiple transaction codes are not issued for a single mobile terminal (4) while a customer is shopping. That is, since the terminal code and the transaction code correspond one-to-one, one can be made to have the function of the other.

[0018] Specifically, a transaction can be identified by a terminal code. Therefore, the terminal code is also an example of transaction identification information. Additionally, a mobile terminal (4) can be identified by a transaction code. Therefore, the transaction code is also an example of terminal identification information. For this reason, in the following description, the terminal code and the transaction code are appropriately interchangeable with each other. Furthermore, the server device (2) may issue only one of the terminal code or the transaction code.

[0019] The server device (2) receives a registration request from the mobile terminal (4). The registration request includes a terminal code and a product code read by the mobile terminal (4). The server device (2), which manages product information for each store, reads the product information corresponding to the product code included in the registration request received from the mobile terminal (4) and registers it as a transaction target. In other words, the server device (2) registers the product information as part of the transaction information. The transaction information includes various information necessary for a customer to make a payment, such as product information. The product information includes information such as product name, price, and highlight information. The highlight information is information indicating that the product is one that the attendant should pay attention to when checking. In this way, the server device (2) manages transaction information in real time for each customer, in other words, for each terminal code.

[0020] The server device (2) transmits transaction information of a store where the attendant PC (6) is installed (hereinafter also referred to as "store transaction information") among the transaction information managed by the server device (2) to the attendant PC (6). The server device (2) regularly receives requests for store transaction information from the attendant PC (6) at short intervals and transmits store transaction information in response to the requests for store transaction information. By doing so, the attendant PC (6) can acquire transaction information of its own store in actual real-time. The attendant PC (6) manages the status of each customer based on the acquired transaction information. Additionally, whenever the transaction information is updated, the server device (2) may transmit the store transaction information of the store for which the transaction information was updated to the attendant PC (6) itself. In this case, the attendant PC (6) does not need to transmit requests for store transaction information.

[0021] The server device (2) receives check information from the attendant PC (6). The check information is information indicating that the attendant has completed the check for the product that the customer scanned the barcode for, i.e., the product purchased by the customer, and includes transaction specific information (transaction code or terminal code). In the following description, the check performed by the attendant on the purchased product may be referred to as an "attendant check." The server device (2) manages whether each transaction has completed the attendant check by storing the terminal code, transaction code, and check information in correspondence.

[0022] The server device (2) receives a transaction information request from the accounting device (5). The transaction information request is a request for transaction information for a customer to make a payment, and includes a transaction code that specifies the transaction to be paid. When the server device (2) receives the transaction information request, it determines whether the transaction specified by the transaction code included in the transaction information request (hereinafter also referred to as the target transaction) has completed the attendant check.

[0023] Then, if the target transaction has completed the attendant check, the server device (2) transmits the transaction information of the target transaction to the accounting device (5). Additionally, if the target transaction has not completed the attendant check, the server device (2) does not transmit the transaction information but transmits error information to the accounting device (5). The error information is information indicating that the target transaction has not completed the attendant check. By doing so, the server device (2) enables payment at the accounting device (5) by the customer on the condition that the attendant check has been completed in advance.

[0024] Additionally, the server device (2) may be configured by multiple computers. In other words, the functions of the server device (2) may be distributed among multiple computers.

[0025] The mobile terminal (4) is a mobile terminal carried by the customer. In this embodiment, the mobile terminal (4) is composed of a smartphone owned by the customer. The mobile terminal (4) has an application program for a mobile self-settlement system installed on it. The mobile terminal (4) captures a product barcode using an imaging unit (44) (see FIG. 10) and reads the product code. The mobile terminal (4) transmits and receives various information between the server device (2).

[0026] The accounting machine (5) is a so-called self-service accounting machine that the customer operates. The accounting machine (5) is equipped with a scanner unit capable of reading code symbols such as barcodes or 2D codes. The accounting machine (5) reads a transaction code from an accounting barcode (hereinafter also referred to as an accounting barcode) on an accounting screen displayed on a mobile terminal (4) using the scanner unit. The accounting machine (5) transmits a transaction information request containing the read transaction code to a server device (2).

[0027] When the accounting device (5) receives transaction information from the server device (2) in response to a request for transaction information, it performs accounting processing based on said transaction information. Accounting processing is a process for making payment for goods purchased by a customer. In the case of cash payment, accounting processing includes, for example, displaying transaction information, calculating change, dispensing change, etc., and in the case of non-cash payment, it includes the transmission and reception of various information with the payment server of the payment business operator, etc.

[0028] When the accounting device (5) receives error information from the server device (2) in response to a request for transaction information, it displays the error information on a display unit provided by the device. The displayed error information is, for example, information indicating a situation where payment cannot be made because an attendant check has not been completed. The accounting device (5) transmits and receives various information between the server device (2).

[0029] The attendant PC (6) is operated by a clerk, such as an attendant, and is an example of an information processing device and an attendant terminal. The attendant PC (6) is equipped with a scanner unit (64) (see FIG. 12) capable of reading code symbols. The attendant PC (6) reads a transaction code from an accounting barcode on an attendant check screen displayed on a portable terminal (4) using the scanner unit (64). The attendant PC (6) obtains transaction information corresponding to the read transaction code from a server device (2) and displays it on a display unit (62) (see FIG. 12).

[0030] The attendant PC (6) can receive input of a terminal code via the operation unit (63) instead of reading the transaction code via the scanner unit (64). The terminal code is displayed on the attendant check screen of the mobile terminal (4). Since the terminal code corresponds to the transaction code in the server device (2), the attendant PC (6) can obtain transaction information corresponding to the transaction code from the server device (2) by transmitting the terminal code to the server device (2). In this way, the attendant PC (6) can obtain necessary transaction information from the server device (2) even when the scanner unit (64) is malfunctioning.

[0031] The attendant performs an attendant check based on the transaction information displayed on the attendant PC (6). For example, if the transaction includes an age-verification product, the attendant verifies the customer's age. Additionally, if the transaction includes an unregistered product, the attendant checks the unregistered product. An unregistered product is a product for which product information corresponding to a product code is not registered in the product master due to some factor. When the attendant check is completed, a check completion input is made to the attendant PC (6). When the check completion input is made, the attendant PC (6) transmits the check information to the server device (2).

[0032] Additionally, when the attendant confirms an unregistered product, after entering the check completion on the attendant PC (6), the attendant moves with the customer to the accounting machine (5) or the dedicated checkout counter. Then, the attendant operates the accounting machine (5) or the dedicated checkout counter to manually register the product information of the unregistered product as part of the transaction information.

[0033] Here, with reference to FIG. 2, the operation in the store is described. FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an example of a store accounting area. The accounting area is an area where one or more accounting machines (5) are arranged, and it is possible for a customer who has completed product registration to pay for the product by operating the accounting machine (5) themselves. Near the entrance of the accounting area, in other words, in the path where a customer goes toward a certain accounting machine (5), an attendant and an attendant PC (6) operated by said attendant are arranged.

[0034] Before making a payment at the accounting machine (5), the customer presents the attendant check screen displayed on the mobile terminal (4) to the attendant. The attendant scans the accounting barcode on the attendant check screen with the scanner unit (64) of the attendant PC (6). The attendant PC (6) obtains transaction information corresponding to the transaction code read from the accounting barcode from the server device (2) and displays it on the display unit (62). The attendant performs an attendant check based on the displayed transaction information. When the attendant check is completed, the attendant inputs the check completion to the attendant PC (6). The attendant PC (6) transmits the check completion information to the server device (2).

[0035] Once the attendant check is completed, the customer can make a payment at any accounting machine (5). Even if a customer who has not completed the attendant check attempts to make a payment at the accounting machine (5), the payment cannot be made because error information is displayed on the accounting machine (5). In this case, the customer moves to the location of the attendant PC (6) to receive the attendant check. Since the attendant can perform the attendant check for each customer at the location where the attendant PC (6) is installed, the check operation becomes easier.

[0036] Next, the server device (2), mobile terminal (4), and attendant PC (6) constituting the transaction management system (1) will be described in detail.

[0037] First, the server device (2) will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the main hardware configuration of the server device (2). The server device (2) is equipped with a control unit (20), a memory unit (21), a display unit (22), an operation unit (23), and a communication unit (24). The control unit (20), the memory unit (21), the display unit (22), the operation unit (23), and the communication unit (24) are connected to each other through a bus (25), etc.

[0038] The control unit (20) is configured as a computer having a CPU (Central Processing Unit) (201), ROM (Read Only Memory) (202), and RAM (Random Access Memory) (203). The CPU (201), ROM (202), and RAM (203) are connected to each other through a bus (25).

[0039] The CPU (201) controls the overall operation of the server device (2). The ROM (202) stores various programs and various data, such as programs used to drive the CPU (201). The RAM (203) is used as a work area for the CPU (201) and displays various programs and various data stored in the ROM (202) or the memory unit (21). The control unit (20) executes various control processing of the server device (2) by having the CPU (201) operate according to the control program stored in the ROM (202) or the memory unit (21) and displayed in the RAM (203).

[0040] The memory unit (21) is composed of a storage medium such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or flash memory and retains the contents of the memory even when the power is cut off. The memory unit (21) stores a control program (211), a product master (212), a terminal management table (213), a highlight information management table (214), a transaction information management table (215), and a mode management table (216).

[0041] The control program (211) is a program for realizing functions such as transmitting and receiving information with external devices such as a mobile terminal (4), an accounting device (5), and an attendant PC (6), managing transaction information for each customer, receiving a transaction information request and determining whether the transaction subject to the transaction information request has completed an attendant check.

[0042] The product master (212) is a master file that stores information about products handled at each store. The product master (212) is updated based on information obtained from each store. Since the products handled at each store change daily, the product master (212) is updated appropriately. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data structure of the product master. The product master (212) stores the company code, store code, product code, product name, price, and highlight item No. in a corresponding manner.

[0043] The company code is information that identifies a company operating a store using the transaction management system (1). The store code is information that identifies a store using the transaction management system (1). In the case where multiple stores of a company use the transaction management system (1), multiple store codes are associated with the company code.

[0044] The product code is information that identifies a product. Since multiple products are sold in one store, multiple product codes are associated with the store code. The product name is information indicating the name of the product. The price is information indicating the price of the product. The highlight item No. is information that identifies the highlight items that must be noted during an attendant check. The highlight item No. corresponds only to products that are set as items that attendants must check carefully (hereinafter also referred to as "highlight items"). The product name, price, and highlight item No. correspond one-to-one with the product code.

[0045] The terminal management table (213) is a data table for managing mobile terminals (4) used in the mobile self-settlement system (3). FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data configuration of the terminal management table (213). The terminal management table (213) stores terminal codes, notification locations, corporate codes, and store codes in correspondence.

[0046] A terminal code is information that identifies a mobile terminal (4) using a transaction management system (1). When the server device (2) receives store entry information from a mobile terminal (4), it issues a terminal code to the said mobile terminal (4) and registers it in the terminal management table (213). Additionally, the terminal code may be an identification number possessed by the mobile terminal (4) itself, such as an IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity). Furthermore, by issuing a terminal code exclusive to the transaction management system (1), the number of digits in the terminal code can be reduced, which has the advantage of facilitating operations when it becomes necessary to manually input the said terminal code.

[0047] The notification address is information indicating the notification address of the mobile terminal (4), such as the communication address of the mobile terminal (4). The enterprise code is information specifying the enterprise operating the store where the mobile terminal (4) is located. The store code is information specifying the store where the mobile terminal (4) is located. The notification address, enterprise code, and store code are registered based on the store entry information received from the mobile terminal (4). Additionally, among the information registered in the terminal management table (213), information regarding the terminal code of a customer whose transaction payment has been completed may be sequentially erased. In this case, since the same terminal code can be used multiple times, the number of digits of the terminal code used can be reduced.

[0048] The highlight information management table (214) is a data table that manages highlight items in highlight products. The highlight information management table (214) is updated based on information obtained from each store. The attendant PC (6) displays a transaction statement screen based on the information registered in the highlight information management table (214). FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data configuration of the highlight information management table (214). The highlight information management table (214) stores the company code, store code, highlight item No., item, importance, display ranking, and display comment in correspondence.

[0049] As described above, the company code is information that identifies a company, and the store code is information that identifies a store. The Highlight Item No. is information that identifies the highlight item to be noticed during the attendant check. The Item is information indicating the content of the highlight item, such as age verification products or unregistered products. The Importance is information indicating the importance of the highlight item; for example, "1" is registered for a highlight item with high importance, and "0" is registered for a highlight item with low importance. The Display Rank is information indicating the display rank on the transaction details screen of the attendant PC (6). The Display Comment is information indicating the comment on the transaction details screen of the attendant PC (6).

[0050] The transaction information management table (215) is a data table that manages transaction information for each store for each transaction. The transaction information management table (215) is updated based on information from the mobile terminal (4), the accounting machine (5), and the attendant PC (6). FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data configuration of the transaction information management table (215). The transaction information management table (215) stores the transaction code, terminal code, check-in time, accounting instruction time, accounting machine No., attendant check flag, transaction amount, accounting completion flag, product information, registration time, and cancellation flag in correspondence.

[0051] The transaction code is information that identifies a transaction. The terminal code is information that identifies a mobile terminal (4). When the server device (2) receives store entry information from the mobile terminal (4), it issues the transaction code and the terminal code and registers them in the transaction information management table (215). The check-in time is information indicating the time when the customer enters the store, for example, the time when the server device (2) receives store entry information from the mobile terminal (4).

[0052] The accounting instruction time is information indicating the time at which the server device (2) receives an accounting instruction from the mobile terminal (4). The accounting unit No. is information identifying the accounting unit (5) that executes accounting processing regarding the transaction of the corresponding transaction code. In other words, the accounting unit No. is information identifying the accounting unit (5) that reads the corresponding transaction code from the accounting screen of the mobile terminal (4). The accounting unit No. is registered based on a transaction information request from the accounting unit (5).

[0053] The attendant check flag is information indicating whether the attendant check has been completed; if it has been completed, "1" is registered, and if it has not been completed, "0" is registered. The attendant check flag is re-entered as "1" based on check information obtained from the attendant PC (6). The attendant check flag with "1" registered is an example of check completion information registered when the attendant check is completed.

[0054] The transaction amount is information indicating the total amount of product prices in one transaction. The accounting completion flag is information indicating whether payment for the transaction has been completed, in other words, whether accounting processing by the accounting machine (5) has been completed. The accounting completion flag is registered as “1” if payment for the transaction has been completed, and “0” if it has not been completed. The accounting completion flag is re-entered as “1” based on the accounting completion notice obtained from the accounting machine (5).

[0055] Product information is information indicating the product code, product name, and price. When multiple products are purchased in a transaction, multiple product information is registered in correspondence with the transaction code. The registration time is information indicating the time at which the product information was registered. The cancellation flag is information indicating whether the product information has been canceled; "1" is registered if it has been canceled, and "0" is registered if it has not been canceled. The cancellation flag is re-entered as "1" based on the cancellation information from the mobile terminal (4). The cancellation information is information instructing the cancellation of a product registration, and includes the product code of the product registration to be cancelled.

[0056] The mode management table (216) is a data table that manages the mode set in the mobile self-checkout system (3) of each store. The mode management table (216) is updated based on information obtained from each store. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data configuration of the mode management table (216). The mode management table (216) stores the corporate code, store code, and mode in correspondence.

[0057] As described above, the enterprise code is information that identifies the enterprise operating the store, and the store code is information that identifies the store. The mode is information that indicates the set mode of the mobile self-checkout system (3), and information indicating either the front check mode or the normal mode is registered.

[0058] The front check mode is a mode for operation in which an attendant check is performed before a customer makes a payment at the accounting machine (5), as described in FIG. 2. Specifically, the front check mode is a mode that enables payment at the accounting machine (5) by a customer on the condition that an attendant check is received. The normal mode is a mode for performing conventional operations. Specifically, the normal mode is a mode that enables payment at the accounting machine (5) by a customer even without receiving an attendant check. Each store can select the front check mode or the normal mode according to the operation.

[0059] Returning to Fig. 3, the hardware configuration of the server device (2) will be described.

[0060] The display unit (22) is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal panel and displays various information. The display unit (22) displays information stored in, for example, a product master (212), a terminal management table (213), a highlight information management table (214), a transaction information management table (215), and a mode management table (216) as needed.

[0061] The control unit (23) is for inputting information to the control unit (20) and is composed of, for example, a keyboard, a touch panel, a mouse, etc.

[0062] The communication unit (24) is an interface for communicating with external devices such as a mobile terminal (4), an accounting device (5), and an attendant PC (6). The control unit (20) is connected to an external device through the communication unit (24), thereby enabling the transmission and reception of information (data) with said external device.

[0063] Next, the functional configuration of the server device (2) will be described. FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the main functional configuration of the control unit (20) of the server device (2). The control unit (20) functions as an example of a transmission / reception means (2001), an information management means (2002), an information processing means (2003), a mode setting means (2004), and a highlight product setting means (2005) by the CPU (201) operating according to a control program stored in the ROM (202) or memory unit (21). Additionally, each of these functions may be configured with hardware such as a dedicated circuit.

[0064] The transmitting and receiving means (2001) transmits and receives various information between the mobile terminal (4), the accounting device (5), and the attendant PC (6). For example, the transmitting and receiving means (2001) receives store entry information from the mobile terminal (4) and transmits a terminal code, a transaction code, and mode information to the mobile terminal (4) which is the source of the store entry information.

[0065] The transmitting and receiving means (2001) receives a registration request including a terminal code and a product code from a mobile terminal (4), and in response, transmits registered product information to the mobile terminal (4) that is the sender of the registration request. The transmitting and receiving means (2001) receives an accounting instruction including a transaction code from the mobile terminal (4), and transmits the transaction amount of the transaction specified by the transaction code and an attendant check screen display instruction to the mobile terminal (4) that is the sender of the accounting instruction. The accounting instruction is information indicating that product registration for one transaction has been completed. The attendant screen display instruction is information instructing the mobile terminal (4) to display an accounting barcode to be read by the attendant PC (6). Additionally, the calculation of the transaction amount may be performed on the mobile terminal (4).

[0066] The transmitting and receiving means (2001) regularly receives a request for store transaction information including a store code from the attendant PC (6) at short intervals, and transmits the transaction information of the store specified by the said store code as a response. By doing so, the attendant PC (6) is able to obtain the transaction information of its own store in substantial real-time.

[0067] The transmitting and receiving means (2001) receives check information from the attendant PC (6). The check information is information indicating that the attendant check has been completed, and includes transaction specific information (transaction code or terminal code). Based on the received check information, the transmitting and receiving means (2001) transmits an accounting screen display instruction to the mobile terminal (4) of the customer whose attendant check has been completed. The accounting screen display instruction is information that instructs the mobile terminal (4) to display an accounting barcode to be read by the accounting machine (5).

[0068] The transmitting and receiving means (2001) receives a request for transaction information including a transaction code from the accounting machine (5) and transmits transaction information specified by said transaction code as a response. The transmitting and receiving means (2001) functions as an example of a request receiving means for receiving transaction information requests. Additionally, the transmitting and receiving means (2001) functions as an example of an output means for outputting transaction information. The transmitting and receiving means (2001) receives an accounting completion notice from the accounting machine (5). The accounting completion notice is information indicating that payment regarding a transaction has been completed and includes a transaction code.

[0069] The information management means (2002) manages various information, such as information received by the transmission and reception means (2001). Here, managing information means writing or reading various information (data) into the memory unit (21).

[0070] For example, when the transmitting and receiving means (2001) receives store entry information, the information management means (2002) writes a terminal code or a transaction code in the terminal management table (213) or the transaction information management table (215). Additionally, when the transmitting and receiving means (2001) receives store entry information, the information management means (2002) reads mode information corresponding to the store code included in the store entry information from the mode management table (216).

[0071] When the transmitting and receiving means (2001) receives a registration request, the information management means (2002) registers product information corresponding to the product code included in the registration request in the transaction information management table (215). Specifically, the information management means (2002) refers to the terminal management table (213) to read out the corporate code and store code corresponding to the terminal code included in the registration request. Then, the information management means (2002) reads out product information corresponding to the corporate code and store code, and also corresponding to the product code included in the registration request, from the product master (212) and registers it in the transaction information management table (215). The information management means (2002) functions as an example of a registration means that executes product registration.

[0072] When the transmitting and receiving means (2001) receives a request for store transaction information, the information management means (2002) extracts transaction information of a store specified by a store code included in the store transaction information request. Specifically, the information management means (2002) reads all terminal codes corresponding to the store code from the terminal management table (213). The information management means (2002) reads all transaction information corresponding to the read terminal code from the transaction information management table (215).

[0073] When the transmitting / receiving means (2001) receives a transaction information request, the information management means (2002) reads out transaction information specified by the transaction code included in the transaction information request. When the transmitting / receiving means (2001) receives check information, the information management means (2002) rewrites the attendant check flag corresponding to the transaction specific information (transaction code or terminal code) included in the check information in the transaction information management table (215) to “1”. Regarding other information, the information management means (2002) writes to or reads out the memory unit (21) as needed.

[0074] As described above, the information management means (2002) is an example of a transaction management means that it manages a transaction information management table (215) that stores transaction-specific information (transaction code or terminal code), transaction information, and check completion information (attendant check flag) in correspondence.

[0075] The information processing means (2003) performs various information processing. For example, the information processing means (2003) calculates the transaction amount of one transaction. In addition, the information processing means (2003) performs the allocation processing of transaction codes or terminal codes and issues these transaction codes or terminal codes. The information processing means (2003) refers to the transaction information management table (215) to determine whether the transaction has completed the attendant check.

[0076] The mode setting means (2004) sets the mode of the mobile self-checkout system (3) of each store to either a front check mode or a normal mode. Specifically, the mode setting means (2004) registers information indicating the front check mode or the normal mode in the mode management table (216) based on information obtained from the store.

[0077] The highlight product setting means (2005) sets a highlight product among the products registered in the product master (212). Specifically, the highlight product setting means (2005) registers information regarding the highlight product in the product master (212) and the highlight information management table (214) based on information obtained from the store.

[0078] Next, details of the mobile terminal (4) will be described. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the main hardware configuration of the mobile terminal (4). The mobile terminal (4) is equipped with a control unit (40), a memory unit (41), a display unit (42), an operation unit (43), an imaging unit (44), and a communication unit (45). The control unit (40), the memory unit (41), the display unit (42), the operation unit (43), the imaging unit (44), and the communication unit (45) are connected to each other through a bus (46), etc.

[0079] The control unit (40) is configured as a computer having a CPU (401), ROM (402) and RAM (403). The CPU (401), ROM (402) and RAM (403) are connected to each other through a bus (46).

[0080] The CPU (401) controls the overall operation of the mobile terminal (4). The ROM (402) stores various programs and various data, such as programs used to drive the CPU (401). The RAM (403) is used as a work area for the CPU (401) and displays various programs and various data stored in the ROM (402) or the memory unit (41). The control unit (40) executes various control processing of the mobile terminal (4) by having the CPU (401) operate according to the control program stored in the ROM (402) or the memory unit (41) and displayed in the RAM (403).

[0081] The memory unit (41) is composed of a storage medium such as an HDD or flash memory and retains the contents of the memory even when the power is cut off. The memory unit (41) stores a control program (411), a terminal code unit (412), a transaction information unit (413), and a mode information unit (414).

[0082] The control program (411) is an application program for a mobile self-settlement system, etc. The application program for a mobile self-settlement system enables the mobile terminal (4) to function as an input device for product registration. In addition, the application program for a mobile self-settlement system enables the mobile terminal (4) to function as an accounting barcode display device.

[0083] The terminal code section (412) stores the terminal code received from the server device (2). The terminal code is issued by the server device (2) based on the entry information from the mobile terminal (4).

[0084] The transaction information unit (413) stores transaction information corresponding to the transaction code received from the server device (2) and the product information registered in the server device (2). Specifically, the product information registered by the server device (2) is sequentially registered in the transaction information unit (413) in correspondence with the transaction code.

[0085] The mode information unit (414) stores mode information received from the server device (2). The mode information unit (414) stores mode information received from the server device (2) in correspondence with store entry information from the mobile terminal (4). The mode information is information indicating the mode of the mobile self-checkout system (3) of the store where the mobile terminal (4) is located.

[0086] When the mobile terminal (4) receives a notification of accounting completion from the server device (2), the information stored in the terminal code section (412), the transaction information section (413), and the mode information section (414) is cleared. The terminal code section (412), the transaction information section (413), and the mode information section (414) store new information for each transaction.

[0087] The display unit (42) is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal panel and displays various information. The display unit (42) displays, for example, product information of a product registered in the server device (2) or the total amount of a product registered in the server device (2). In addition, the display unit (42) displays an attendant check screen or an accounting screen. On these attendant check screens or accounting screens, an accounting barcode that is read by the attendant PC (6) or the accounting device (5) is displayed.

[0088] The control unit (43) is configured, for example, as a touch panel provided on the surface of the display unit (42), and inputs information according to the location where the user touches to the control unit (40). When a customer operates an operator displayed on the display unit (42), the control unit (43) inputs information according to the operator to the control unit (40).

[0089] The imaging unit (44) captures a 2D code or product barcode displayed at the entrance of a store and inputs the image (or video image) data (hereinafter also referred to as image data) obtained by the imaging to the control unit (40). The control unit (40) reads store information from the image of the 2D code and reads the product code from the image of the product barcode. Additionally, when the mobile terminal (4) recognizes the product code using so-called object recognition, the imaging unit (44) captures the appearance of the product and inputs it to the control unit (40).

[0090] The communication unit (45) is an interface for communicating with an external device, such as a server device (2). The control unit (40) is connected to an external device through the communication unit (45), thereby enabling the transmission and reception of information (data) with said external device.

[0091] Next, the functional configuration of the control unit (40) of the mobile terminal (4) will be described. FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the main functional configuration of the control unit (40) of the mobile terminal (4). The control unit (40) functions as a transmission / reception means (4001), an input means (4002), a reading means (4003), an information management means (4004), an information processing means (4005), and a display control means (4006) by the CPU (401) operating according to a control program stored in the ROM (402) or memory unit (41). Additionally, each of these functions may be configured with hardware such as dedicated circuits.

[0092] The transmitting and receiving means (4001) transmits and receives various information with the server device (2). For example, the transmitting and receiving means (4001) transmits store entry information to the server device (2) and receives terminal code, transaction code, and mode information from the server device (2).

[0093] The transmitting and receiving means (4001) transmits a registration request including a terminal code and a product code to the server device (2) and receives registered product information and a transaction amount from the server device (2) as a response. The transmitting and receiving means (4001) transmits an accounting instruction including a transaction code to the server device (2) and receives a transaction amount of a transaction specified by the transaction code and an attendant check screen display instruction from the server device (2). The transmitting and receiving means (4001) receives an accounting screen display instruction and an accounting completion notice from the server device (2).

[0094] Various information is input to the input means (4002) from the control unit (43) and the imaging unit (44). For example, a transaction start instruction or an accounting instruction is input to the input means (4002) from the control unit (43). In addition, the input means (4002) receives image data of a 2D code displayed at the entrance of a store, image data of a product barcode, etc. from the imaging unit (44).

[0095] The reading means (4003) extracts a two-dimensional code from the image data input to the input means (4002) and decodes the two-dimensional code to read store information. Additionally, the reading means (4003) extracts a product barcode from the image data input to the input means (4002) and decodes the product barcode to read a product code. Additionally, the decoding of the two-dimensional code or product barcode may be performed by the server device (2). In this case, the transmitting and receiving means (4001) transmits the image data of the two-dimensional code or barcode to the server device (2) and receives the store information or product code read by the server device (2) from the server device (2).

[0096] The information management means (4004) manages various information, such as information received by the transmission and reception means (4001). Here, managing information means writing or reading various information (data) into the memory unit (41).

[0097] For example, the information management means (4004) records the terminal code received by the transmission / reception means (4001) in the terminal code section (412). Additionally, the information management means (4004) records the transaction code and product information received by the transmission / reception means (4001) in the transaction information section (413). Specifically, when the transmission / reception means (4001) receives a transaction code, the information management means (4004) records the said transaction code in the transaction information section (413). And whenever the transmission / reception means (4001) receives product information registered from the server device (2), the said product information is recorded in the transaction information section (413) in correspondence with the said transaction code. The information management means (4004) records the mode information received by the transmission / reception means (4001) in the mode information section (414).

[0098] The information processing means (4005) performs various information processing. For example, when the information processing means (4005) receives an attendant check screen display instruction from the server device (2) via the transmitting and receiving means (4001), it generates an accounting barcode to be displayed on the display unit (42).

[0099] The display control means (4006) displays various information on the display unit (42). For example, the display control means (4006) displays product information and transaction amount stored in the transaction information unit (413) on the display unit (42). The transaction amount may be obtained from the server device (2), or the information processing means (4005) may calculate it based on the transaction information stored in the transaction information unit (413).

[0100] When information indicating a front check mode is registered in the mode information section (414), the display control means (4006) displays an attendant check screen on the display section (42) when an accounting barcode is generated by the information processing means (4005). Then, when the transmission / reception means (4001) receives an instruction to display the accounting screen, the display control means (4006) displays the accounting screen on the display section (42).

[0101] When information indicating a normal mode is registered in the mode information section (414), the display control means (4006) does not display an attendant check screen on the display section (42) and displays an accounting screen when an accounting barcode is generated by the information processing means (4005). Details of the attendant check screen and the accounting screen will be described later.

[0102] Next, details of the attendant PC (6) will be described. FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the main hardware configuration of the attendant PC (6). The attendant PC (6) is equipped with a control unit (60), a memory unit (61), a display unit (62), an operation unit (63), a scanner unit (64), and a communication unit (65). The control unit (60), memory unit (61), display unit (62), operation unit (63), scanner unit (64), and communication unit (65) are connected to each other through a bus (66), etc.

[0103] The control unit (60) is configured as a computer having a CPU (601), ROM (602) and RAM (603). The CPU (601), ROM (602) and RAM (603) are connected to each other through a bus (66).

[0104] The CPU (601) controls the overall operation of the attendant PC (6). The ROM (602) stores various programs and various data, such as programs used to drive the CPU (601). The RAM (603) is used as a work area for the CPU (601) and displays various programs and various data stored in the ROM (602) or the memory unit (61). The control unit (60) executes various control processing of the attendant PC (6) by having the CPU (601) operate according to the control program stored in the ROM (602) or the memory unit (61) and displayed in the RAM (603).

[0105] The memory unit (61) is composed of a storage medium such as an HDD or flash memory and retains the contents of the memory even when the power is cut off. The memory unit (61) stores a control program (611) and a status management table (612).

[0106] The control program (611) is a program for realizing functions such as transmitting and receiving information with the server device (2) and managing the customer status of the store.

[0107] The status management table (612) is a data table that manages the status of customers for whom payment has not been completed. The status management table (612) is updated from time to time based on information obtained from the server device (2). FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data configuration of the status management table (612). The status management table (612) stores the terminal code, transaction code, check-in time, reconciliation time, previous operation time, registration score, registration amount, status, and accounting device No. in correspondence.

[0108] As described above, the transaction code is information that identifies a transaction, and the terminal code is information that identifies a mobile terminal (4). The check-in time is information indicating the time when the customer entered the store. The waiting time is the elapsed time since the customer entered the store and is calculated based on the current time and the check-in time. The previous operation time is information indicating the time when the customer operated the mobile terminal (4) immediately before. Specifically, the previous operation time is information indicating the time of the most recent operation, such as the check-in time, registration time, accounting instruction time, etc.

[0109] The registration score is information indicating the score of a registered product. The registration amount is information indicating the total amount of a registered product. The registration amount has the same meaning as the transaction amount and may be a price including tax or a price excluding tax. The status is an example of status information indicating the customer's status. A pre-accounting state, such as "Shopping," is registered in the status. "Shopping" indicates that one or more products have been registered and that no accounting instructions have been entered into the mobile terminal (4). Additionally, the status may include "Accounting in Progress" or "Accounting Completed." "Accounting in Progress" indicates that accounting instructions have been entered into the mobile terminal (4) and that payment has not been completed. "Accounting Completed" indicates that payment has been completed. The accounting device No is information specifying the accounting machine (5) that is executing the accounting processing for the corresponding transaction No.

[0110] Returning to Fig. 12, the hardware configuration of the attendant PC (6) is described.

[0111] The display unit (62) is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal panel and displays various information. For example, the display unit (62) displays a transaction list screen, a transaction details screen, a guidance screen, and a highlight setting screen. The transaction list screen is a screen that displays a list of customer statuses. The transaction details screen is a screen that displays the transaction details of a customer. The guidance screen is a screen that displays guidance for an attendant during an attendant check. The highlight setting screen is a screen that sets highlight products. Details of each of these screens will be described later.

[0112] The operation unit (63) is for inputting information to the control unit (60) and is composed of, for example, a keyboard, a touch panel, a mouse, etc. For example, the operation unit (63) inputs information to the control unit (60) for setting the mode of the mobile self-settlement system (3) or for setting highlight products.

[0113] The scanner unit (64) reads code symbols such as barcodes or 2D codes. For example, the scanner unit (64) scans an accounting barcode displayed on the attendant check screen of the mobile terminal (4) and inputs the scan data to the control unit (60). The scanner unit (64) may be composed of an image capturing unit. In this case, the scanner unit (64) inputs the captured data to the control unit (60).

[0114] The communication unit (65) is an interface for communicating with an external device, such as a server device (2). The control unit (60) is connected to an external device through the communication unit (65), thereby enabling the transmission and reception of information (data) with said external device.

[0115] Next, the functional configuration of the control unit (60) of the attendant PC (6) will be described. FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the main functional configuration of the control unit (60) of the attendant PC (6). The control unit (60) functions as a transmission / reception means (6001), an input means (6002), a reading means (6003), an information management means (6004), and a display control means (6005) by the CPU (601) operating according to a control program stored in the ROM (602) or memory unit (61). Additionally, each of these functions may be configured with hardware such as dedicated circuits.

[0116] The transmitting and receiving means (6001) transmits and receives various information with the server device (2). For example, the transmitting and receiving means (6001) transmits a request for store transaction information including a store code to the server device (2) and receives transaction information corresponding to the store code as a response. The transmitting and receiving means (6001) transmits a request for transaction information including a transaction code to the server device (2) and receives transaction information corresponding to the transaction code as a response. In addition, the transmitting and receiving means (6001) transmits check information to the server device (2).

[0117] The transmitting and receiving means (6001) transmits various setting information to the server device (2). For example, the transmitting and receiving means (6001) transmits mode setting information of the mobile self-settlement system (3) to the server device (2). Additionally, the transmitting and receiving means (6001) transmits setting information for setting highlight products to the server device (2). Furthermore, the attendant PC (6) may transmit and receive information with the server device (2) by means of a dedicated application program function, or it may transmit and receive information with the server device (2) by accessing a website using a browser.

[0118] Various information is input to the input means (6002) from the operation unit (63) and the scanner unit (64). The input means (6002) functions as an example of a receiving means for receiving various operations. Here, the term "operation" is not limited to operations through the operation unit (63) but also includes the concept of reading code symbols using the scanner unit (64). For example, check completion information is input to the input means (6002) from the operation unit (43). Check completion information is information indicating that the attendant check has been completed. Additionally, scan data of an accounting barcode displayed on the attendant check screen is input to the input means (6002) from the scanner unit (64).

[0119] The reading means (6003) decodes the scan data input to the input means (6002) to read the transaction code. Additionally, the decoding of the scan data may be performed by the server device (2). In this case, the transmitting and receiving means (6001) transmits the scan data to the server device (2) and receives the transaction code read by the server device (2).

[0120] The information management means (6004) manages various information, such as information received by the transmission and reception means (6001). Here, managing information means writing or reading various information (data) into the memory unit (61).

[0121] For example, the information management means (6004) enters necessary information into the status management table (612) based on the transaction information of the store received by the transmission and reception means (6001). Additionally, the information management means (6004) reads information to be displayed on the display unit (62) from the status management table (612) as needed.

[0122] The display control means (6005) displays various information on the display unit (62). The display control means (6005) functions as an example of the first display means and the second display means. For example, the display control means (6005) displays a transaction list screen, a transaction details screen, a guidance screen, and a highlight setting screen on the display unit (62). Additionally, these transaction list screen, transaction details screen, guidance screen, and highlight setting screen are screens displayed by accessing a website provided by the server device (2).

[0123] In addition, although the configuration of the accounting device (5) has been omitted from the description, the accounting device (5) is configured to have a control unit configured as a computer, such as a CPU, ROM, and RAM, similar to the server device (2), mobile terminal (4), and attendant terminal (6) described above. Furthermore, the accounting device (5) is configured to have a storage unit such as an HDD or flash memory for storing various programs, a display unit composed of a display device such as a liquid crystal panel, an operation unit composed of an input device such as a keyboard or touch panel, a scanner unit similar to the scanner unit (64), and a communication unit for communicating with an external device. The control unit of the accounting device (5) executes various processing, such as the attendant check judgment processing described later, by cooperating with the program stored in the storage unit. In addition, the control unit of the accounting device (5) realizes functional configurations such as a receiving means and an accounting processing means by cooperating with the program stored in the storage unit.

[0124] Next, a schematic description of the operation of the transaction management system (1) of the above configuration will be provided. FIG. 15 is a sequence chart showing an example of the operation flow of the transaction management system (1). In addition, this sequence chart shows the operation flow when the mode of the mobile self-settlement system (3) is set to front check mode. In addition, the sequence chart shows the operation flow when a customer receives an attendant check before payment at the accounting machine (5).

[0125] The customer starts an application program for a mobile self-settlement system (Step S1). Then, the customer reads the store entry information using a mobile terminal (4) and performs a transaction start input (Step S2). The mobile terminal (4) transmits the store entry information, including the company code, store code, and check-in time, to the server device (2) (Step S3).

[0126] The server device (2) issues a terminal code and a transaction code (step S4). At this time, the server device (2) registers necessary information in the terminal management table (213) and the transaction information management table (215) based on the received store entry information. The server device (2) reads the mode information of the store code included in the store entry information from the mode management table (216) (step S5). The server device (2) transmits the issued terminal code and transaction code and the read mode information to the mobile terminal (4) (step S6).

[0127] The mobile terminal (4) registers the received information (step S7). Specifically, the mobile terminal (4) registers the received terminal code in the terminal code section (412), the transaction code in the transaction information section (413), and the mode information in the mode information section (414), respectively. When a customer captures a product barcode with the imaging section (44), the mobile terminal (4) reads the product code that identifies the product (step S8). Additionally, the product code of a product that does not have a barcode attached is input from the operation section (43). The mobile terminal (4) transmits a registration request containing the terminal code and the product code to the server device (2) (step S9). The mobile terminal (4) may transmit a registration request containing the transaction code instead of the terminal code, or together with the terminal code, to the server device (2). In the following description, the mobile terminal (4) transmits the terminal code along with the information when transmitting it to the server device (2).

[0128] The server device (2) performs product registration based on a registration request. Specifically, the server device (2) reads product information corresponding to the product code included in the registration request from the product master (212) and registers it in the transaction information management table (215) (Step S10). The server device (2) transmits the read product information to the mobile terminal (4) (Step S11).

[0129] The mobile terminal (4) stores the received product information in the transaction information section (413) and displays the transaction information display screen (step S12). Additionally, whenever the mobile terminal (4) reads the product code, it may acquire transaction information including all product information regarding the transaction that the server has registered in the transaction information management table (215).

[0130] Here, a transaction information display screen is described. FIG. 16 is a drawing illustrating an example of a transaction information display screen displayed by a mobile terminal (4). The display unit (42) of the mobile terminal (4) displays a header unit (421), a total information unit (422), a product information unit (423), and a footer unit (424) in the transaction information display screen.

[0131] The header section (421) displays the company name “○○”, the store name “△△ Store”, and the text “Registering” indicating that a customer is shopping. Additionally, the header section (421) has a terminal code section (4211) formed therein. The terminal code section (4211) displays a terminal code.

[0132] The total information section (422) displays the total score and total amount of products for which product registration has been completed. For products for which registration has been cancelled after a product registration has been completed, the total score and total amount are not included.

[0133] In the product information section (423), information on registered products and products whose registration has been cancelled is displayed. The displayed product information includes the product name, price, tax rate, score, and additional information. The additional information is, for example, information indicating age verification products, but is set independently of the highlight products. For products whose registration has been cancelled, a strikethrough is attached to the product name, price, and score.

[0134] The footer section (424) displays various operators. Specifically, the footer section (424) displays a “no barcode” icon, a “scan” icon, and a “payment” icon. The “no barcode” icon is an icon that displays a preset screen for registering a product that does not have a product barcode attached. The “scan” icon is an icon for capturing a product barcode. The “payment” icon is an icon for inputting an accounting instruction.

[0135] Returning to Fig. 15, the operation of the transaction management system (1) is described in detail.

[0136] Whenever a customer scans the barcode attached to the product, the processing of steps S8 to S12 is repeated. The attendant PC (6) transmits the store transaction information request to the server device (2) (step S13). Additionally, although the store transaction information request is processed in step S13 for the sake of explanation, it is repeatedly output to the server device (2) in a short period of time, unrelated to other processing. In other words, the store transaction information request is practically transmitted to the server device (2) at all times.

[0137] When the server device (2) receives a request for store transaction information, it extracts transaction information corresponding to the store code included in the request for store transaction information from the transaction information management table (215) as store transaction information (step S14). The server device (2) transmits the extracted store transaction information to the attendant PC (6) (step S15).

[0138] The attendant PC (6) updates the status management table (612) based on the received store transaction information (step S16). The attendant PC (6) displays a transaction list screen on the display unit (62) based on the information stored in the status management table (612) (step S17). As described above, since the store transaction information request is repeatedly transmitted to the server device (2) at short intervals, the processing of steps S14 to S17, which is executed in conjunction with the store transaction information request, is also executed repeatedly. Accordingly, the transaction list screen is automatically updated.

[0139] Here, the transaction list screen is described. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a transaction list screen displayed by an attendant PC (6). The display unit (62) of the attendant PC (6) displays, in the transaction list screen, an update button (621), a terminal code input field (622), a usage account display unit (623), an exit button (624), a highlight setting button (625), and a status display unit (626).

[0140] The update button (621) is an operator for manually updating the information displayed on the status display unit (626). The terminal code input field (622) is an input field for entering a terminal code to display a transaction details screen related to the terminal code. The terminal code input field (622) is used, for example, when the scanner unit (64) is broken and the accounting barcode cannot be read. The accounting machine display unit (623) displays the number of accounting machines (5) in use.

[0141] The exit button (624) is an operator for ending the transaction list display. The screen displayed after the exit button (624) is operated can be arbitrarily set by the store. The highlight setting button (625) is an operator for transitioning to the highlight setting screen.

[0142] The status display unit (626) lists and displays the status of customers for each terminal code. Specifically, the status display unit (626) displays each item corresponding to the terminal code, appeasement time, previous operation time, registration score, registration amount, status, and accounting machine No. Since the contents of each item are as described in the explanation of the status management table (612) of the attendant PC (6), redundant explanations are omitted.

[0143] For each item of the status display section (626), a rearrangement icon (6261) is displayed, indicated by an upward arrow and a downward arrow. When the rearrangement icon (6261) of any item is operated, the customer's status is rearranged using that item as the key. For example, in the state shown in FIG. 17, when the rearrangement icon (6261) of the appeasement time item is operated, each data is rearranged in ascending order of appeasement time. That is, the data of the lowest row with the smallest appeasement time is placed at the top. In the same way, the data of all rows is rearranged. In that state, when the rearrangement icon (6261) of the appeasement time item is operated again, this time each data is rearranged in descending order of recovery time.

[0144] The same applies even if the rearrangement icon (6261) of another item is manipulated. Additionally, when rearranging in ascending or descending order, if the numerical values ​​of the key items are the same, the numerical value of the item located further to the left is prioritized for rearrangement. For example, when rearranging the return time in ascending order, in the example of FIG. 17, the return time is the same for the 3rd row (row with Accounting No. 403) and the 4th row (row with Accounting No. 404), but the 3rd row, which has a smaller value of the terminal code, the item located furthest to the left, is positioned above. Also, in the default display form of the status display section (626), the data where the status item is "Shopping" is set to be at the top.

[0145] In the status display section (626), a highlight icon (6262) is displayed on the status item. The highlight icon (6262) is an icon indicating that the transaction information includes a highlight item. The attendant can recognize that it is necessary to perform an attendant check carefully on the transaction of the data where the highlight icon (6262) is displayed.

[0146] Here, a status such as "Shopping" displayed in the status item also functions as an operator capable of receiving selection operations. When any one of the statuses is selected from the status display unit (626), a transaction details screen regarding the terminal code of the selected status is displayed. That is, the status displayed in the status display unit (626) functions as an example of an operator to display a transaction details screen regarding the corresponding terminal code while indicating the customer's status. The status selection operation is utilized, for example, when checking the transaction details of any mobile terminal (4). Hereinafter, the status displayed in the status item of the status display unit (626) is also referred to as a "status operator."

[0147] Additionally, on the transaction list screen, it is possible to display a transaction details screen regarding the transaction code included in the accounting barcode by reading the accounting barcode, and a message (627) guiding the purpose is displayed above the status display section (626).

[0148] In this way, on the transaction list screen, it is possible to direct the display of the transaction details screen by three operation methods: (1) direct input of the terminal code through the terminal code input field (622), (2) selection of the status operator, and (3) reading of the accounting barcode.

[0149] Returning to Fig. 15, the operation of the transaction management system (1) is described in detail.

[0150] When the customer completes the product registration of the purchased product and operates the payment icon on the transaction information display screen, an accounting instruction is entered into the mobile terminal (4) (Step S18). The mobile terminal (4) transmits the accounting instruction to the server device (2) (Step S19).

[0151] The server device (2) calculates the transaction amount while updating transaction information based on the received accounting instruction (Step S20). Specifically, the server device (2) registers the accounting instruction time corresponding to the transaction code included in the accounting instruction in the transaction information management table (215). Additionally, the server device (2) calculates the transaction amount based on the product information corresponding to the transaction code. The server device (2) transmits the calculated transaction amount and an attendant check screen display instruction to the mobile terminal (4) (Step S21).

[0152] The mobile terminal (4) generates an accounting barcode representing a transaction code (Step S22). The mobile terminal (4) checks the mode of the mobile self-settlement system (3) by referring to the mode information section (414) (Step S23), and if it is in the front check mode, displays the attendant check screen (Step S24). Additionally, if the mode of the mobile self-settlement system (3) is in the normal mode, the mobile terminal (4) displays the accounting screen described later.

[0153] Here, the attendant check screen is described. FIG. 18 is a drawing illustrating an example of an attendant check screen displayed by a mobile terminal (4). The display unit (42) of the mobile terminal (4) displays a header unit (421), a total information unit (422), and an accounting barcode unit (425) in the attendant check screen.

[0154] The header section (421) displays the company name “○○”, the store name “△△ Store”, and the text “Accounting Payment” indicating that the customer has entered accounting instructions. Additionally, a terminal code section (4211) is formed in the header section (421). The terminal code section (4211) displays a terminal code. Additionally, a back button (4212) is displayed in the header section (421). The back button (4212) is an operator for returning the display to the previous screen. For example, in the attendant check screen, when the back button (4212) is operated, the mobile terminal (4) returns the display to the transaction information display screen (see FIG. 16).

[0155] The total information section (422) displays the total score and total amount of products for which product registration is complete. Additionally, in a transaction where an accounting instruction has been entered, if a price reduction product is registered, the total information section (422) also displays the total amount of the price reduction.

[0156] The accounting barcode section (425) displays an accounting barcode representing a transaction code. Additionally, the accounting barcode section (425) displays a guidance message to the customer, such as, "Please present the 'accounting barcode' at the entrance of the accounting area." Additionally, the accounting barcode section (425) displays an illustration that visualizes the accounting barcode being read by the scanner section (64) of the attendant PC (6). A customer who sees the attendant check screen can recognize that they need to move to the location where the attendant PC (6) is placed and present the accounting barcode.

[0157] Returning to Fig. 15, the operation of the transaction management system (1) is described in detail.

[0158] When the attendant scans the accounting barcode on the attendant check screen presented by the customer using the scanner unit (64), the accounting barcode is input into the attendant PC (6) (Step S25). The attendant PC (6) reads the transaction code from the accounting barcode and transmits a transaction information request containing the transaction code to the server device (2) (Step S26).

[0159] The server device (2) extracts transaction information corresponding to the transaction code included in the transaction information request from the transaction information management table (215) (step S27). The server device (2) transmits the extracted transaction information to the attendant PC (6) (step S28).

[0160] Additionally, when the server device (2) receives a transaction information request including a terminal code from the attendant PC (6), in step S27, it extracts transaction information corresponding to the terminal code included in the transaction information request from the transaction information management table (215).

[0161] The attendant PC (6) switches the display from the transaction list screen to the transaction details screen (step S29).

[0162] Here, the transaction details screen is described. FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of a transaction details screen displayed by an attendant PC (6). The display unit (62) of the attendant PC (6) displays a terminal code display unit (721), a total amount display unit (722), a total score display unit (723), a display switching button (724), a display target display unit (725), a product details unit (726), a back button (727), and an OK button (728) in the transaction details screen.

[0163] The terminal code display unit (721) displays the terminal code corresponding to the target transaction that is set as the display target on the transaction details screen. The total amount display unit (722) displays the transaction amount of the target transaction. The total score display unit (723) displays the product score purchased in the target transaction.

[0164] The display switching button (724) is an operator that switches the display target displayed in the product specification section (726). The display switching button (724) switches whether the display target displayed in the product specification section (726) is all products subject to transaction or only highlight products. In the example of FIG. 19, since only highlight products are displayed in the product specification section (726), the display switching button (724) is in a state where the text "All items" is displayed. When the display switching button (724) is operated in this state, all products subject to transaction are displayed in the product specification section (726).

[0165] For example, in the case of a store where the operation is performed by an attendant to check that the registered products and the products contained in the shopping cart all match, the items displayed in the product specification section (726) are all products that are the subject of the transaction. Additionally, in the case of a store where the operation is performed by an attendant to check only the highlight products among the registered products, the items displayed in the product specification section (726) are limited to only the highlight products.

[0166] The display target display section (725) displays the display target displayed in the product specification section (726). In the example of FIG. 19, since only the highlight products are displayed in the product specification section (726), the display target display section (725) displays "highlights only."

[0167] The product specification section (726) displays product specifications. Specifically, the product specification section (726) displays each item corresponding to the scan order, product name, quantity, amount, tax, and verification point for each product. The scan order indicates the scanned sequence number. The product name indicates the name of the product. The quantity indicates the quantity of the corresponding product registered. The amount indicates the amount of the corresponding product, specifically the amount obtained by multiplying the unit price and the quantity. The tax indicates the applicable tax type. The verification point indicates a pre-set display comment for the product (see Highlight Information Management Table (214)).

[0168] In the product specification section (726), a rearrangement icon (7261) is displayed for the items of scan order, quantity, and amount. Since the function of the rearrangement icon (7261) is the same as the rearrangement icon (6261) in the transaction list screen of FIG. 17, a redundant explanation is omitted.

[0169] In the product specification section (726), a highlight icon (7262) or an important icon (7263) is displayed on the items in the scan order. The highlight icon (7262) is an icon indicating that the item is a highlight product. The important icon (7263) is an icon indicating that the item is of high importance in the attendant check. The highlight icon (7262) and the important icon (7263) have the same shape but are displayed in different colors.

[0170] The back button (727) is an operator for returning to the transaction list screen. The OK button (728) is an operator for inputting information indicating that the attendant check has been completed. When the OK button (728) is operated, the attendant PC (6) transmits the check information to the server device (2).

[0171] FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of a guidance screen displayed by an attendant PC (6). The guidance screen is a screen displayed in front of the transaction statement screen. Whether or not to display the guidance screen can be arbitrarily set by the store. The guidance screen is in the form of a guidance display section (729) pop-up displayed on the transaction statement screen.

[0172] The guidance display section (729) is displayed only when a highlight product is included in the transaction. The guidance display section (729) displays guidance on what the attendant must do during the attendant check. For example, the guidance display section (729) displays a message indicating that a product requiring verification by the attendant is included in the transaction target product. Additionally, the guidance display section (729) displays a message indicating that age verification is required for alcoholic beverages, etc., or that registration must be performed at a dedicated checkout counter for unregistered products.

[0173] A back button (7291) and an OK button (7292) are displayed on the guidance display unit (729). The back button (7291) is an operator for returning to the transaction list screen. The OK button (7292) is an operator for inputting information indicating that the attendant has confirmed the contents displayed on the guidance display unit (729). When the OK button (7292) is operated, the guidance display unit (729) is cleared and the transaction details screen is displayed.

[0174] Returning to Fig. 15, the operation of the transaction management system (1) is described in detail.

[0175] When the OK button (728) is operated on the transaction details screen, a check completion input is made to the attendant PC (6) (step S30). The attendant PC (6) transmits the check information to the server device (2) (step S31).

[0176] The server device (2) updates the attendant check flag (step S32). Specifically, the server device (2) rewrites the attendant check flag corresponding to the transaction code included in the check information in the transaction information management table (215) to “1”. The server device (2) transmits an accounting screen display instruction to the mobile terminal (4) (step S33).

[0177] When the mobile terminal (4) receives a command to display the accounting screen, it disables the above-described back button (4212) (step S34). Then, the mobile terminal (4) switches from the attendant check screen and displays the accounting screen on the display unit (42) (step S35).

[0178] Here, the accounting screen is described. FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of an accounting screen displayed by a mobile terminal (4). The display unit (42) of the mobile terminal (4) displays a header unit (421), a total information unit (422), and an accounting barcode unit (425) in the accounting screen. Additionally, since the accounting screen is similar to an attendant check screen, the differences from the attendant check screen are explained here, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0179] The header section (421), similar to the attendant check screen, displays a terminal code in addition to the company name "○○", the store name "△△ Store", and the text "Accounting Payment" indicating that the customer has entered accounting instructions. Additionally, in the header section (421) of the accounting screen, the back button (4212) that was displayed on the attendant check screen is in a disabled state by processing step S34. Here, "disabled" means making it unoperable. Due to the disabled state of the back button (4212), the back button (4212) is displayed in a grayed-out state, for example, or is not displayed.

[0180] In the accounting screen of FIG. 21, the back button (4212) is grayed out, making it impossible to operate. Therefore, it is impossible to return from the accounting screen to the previous screen (attendant check screen).

[0181] Here, the reason for disabling the back button (4212) on the accounting screen is based on the following circumstances. In the flow of operations when the front check mode is set, after the attendant check is completed, the registered products are in a confirmed state, so the customer cannot perform additional registration or cancellation of products through their own operation, and can only make payments at the accounting machine (5). If it is allowed to return to the attendant check screen or the previous transaction information display screen after the attendant check is completed, there is a possibility that the registered product details may be inadvertently edited by the customer after the attendant check is completed. In this case, there is a possibility that products for which the attendant is unconfirmed, such as age-verified products, may be purchased without verifying the customer's age.

[0182] Therefore, in the mobile terminal (4) of the present embodiment, the accounting screen is displayed with the back button (4212) disabled in order to prevent returning to the previous screen in the accounting screen that indicates that the attendant check has been completed. By doing so, the mobile terminal (4) can prevent returning to the attendant check screen or the screen where product registration is possible before that, and thus can maintain the product registration status at the stage where the attendant check has been completed.

[0183] Additionally, when the mode of the mobile self-settlement system (3) is selected as normal mode, it is not limited to this form, and an accounting screen with the back button (4212) enabled can be displayed, just like the attendant check screen.

[0184] The accounting barcode section (425) displays guidance messages to the customer, such as, "Please scan the accounting barcode on the screen with the scanner of the accounting machine." Additionally, the accounting barcode section (425) displays an illustration that visualizes the accounting barcode being read by the scanner section of the accounting machine (5). The customer who sees the accounting screen can recognize that they need to move to the accounting machine (5) and scan the accounting barcode.

[0185] Returning to Fig. 15, the operation of the transaction management system (1) is described in detail.

[0186] When a customer scans the accounting barcode at the scanner part of the accounting machine (5), the accounting barcode is input into the accounting machine (5) (Step S36). The accounting machine (5) requests transaction information of the transaction code read from the accounting barcode from the server device (2) (Step S37).

[0187] The server device (2) executes an attendant check determination process (step S38). The attendant check determination process is a process for determining whether an attendant check has been completed for a transaction for which a transaction information request was made. Details of the attendant check determination process will be described later.

[0188] When the attendant check is completed, the server device (2) transmits transaction information corresponding to the transaction code included in the transaction information request to the accountant (5) (step S39). At this time, the server device (2) stores the accountant No. in the transaction information management table (215) by corresponding it to the transaction code included in the transaction information request.

[0189] Additionally, if the attendant check is not completed, the server device (2) transmits error information to the accountant (5). Upon receiving the error information, the accountant (5) displays a message urging, for example, a customer to receive an attendant check.

[0190] The accounting machine (5) that receives transaction information executes accounting processing (step S40). The accounting machine (5) executes accounting processing for cash payments or accounting processing for non-cash payments based on the customer's operation. In addition, if an attendant's operation is required, such as when the customer's purchased goods include unregistered goods, the accounting machine (5) is also operated by the attendant. When accounting processing is completed, the accounting machine (5) sends an accounting completion notification to the server device (2) (step S41).

[0191] The server device (2) updates the transaction information based on the received accounting completion notice (step S42). Specifically, the server device (2) rewrites the accounting completion flag corresponding to the transaction code included in the accounting completion notice to “1” in the transaction information management table (215).

[0192] The server device (2) transmits an accounting completion notice to the mobile terminal (4) (step S43). The server device (2) transmits an accounting completion notice to the mobile terminal (4) specified by a terminal code corresponding to the transaction code included in the accounting completion notice received from the accounting device (5).

[0193] The mobile terminal (4) displays information indicating that accounting is complete on the display unit (42) (step S44).

[0194] By the above operation, the customer can make a payment at the accounting machine (5) on the condition that they receive an attendant check from an attendant stationed near the entrance of the accounting area. Because of this, the attendant does not need to move to the accounting machine (5) whenever a check is needed, and the efficiency of the attendant check is improved.

[0195] Next, the processing regarding the display of the transaction details screen in the transaction list screen described above will be explained. FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the flow of the processing for displaying the transaction details screen by the control unit (60) of the attendant PC (6). In addition, this processing represents an example of the processing performed by the attendant PC (6) in steps S25 to S31, as described in FIG. 15.

[0196] The control unit (60) waits until it receives an operation indicated by the display of the transaction details screen while the transaction list screen is displayed (step S51) (step S52; "No").

[0197] When the operation indicated by the display on the transaction details screen is received (step S52; "Yes"), the control unit (60) determines whether the operation method is inputting a terminal code through the terminal code input field (622) or reading an accounting barcode (i.e., transaction code) through the scanner unit (64) (step S53).

[0198] Here, if the operation method is input of a terminal code through the terminal code input field (622) or an accounting barcode through the scanner unit (64) ("Yes" of Step S53), the control unit (60) transmits a transaction information request including the terminal code or transaction code instructed by the operation to the server device (2) (Step S54). Then, based on the transaction information returned from the server device (2), the control unit (60) displays the transaction details screen described in FIG. 19 on the display unit (62) (Step S55).

[0199] Meanwhile, if the operation method is a selection operation of the status operator displayed in the product specification section (726) ("No" in step S53), the control unit (60) transmits a request for transaction information including a transaction code regarding the status operator selected by the operation to the server device (2) (step S56). In this case, the control unit (60) displays a transaction specification screen (hereinafter also referred to as a transaction specification screen for viewing) with the completion operation of the attendant check invalidated on the display unit (62) based on the transaction information returned from the server device (2) (step S57).

[0200] Here, the transaction statement screen for viewing is described. FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an example of a transaction statement screen for viewing displayed by an attendant PC (6). Also, since the transaction statement screen for viewing is similar to the transaction statement screen, the differences from the transaction statement screen are explained here, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0201] As shown in FIG. 23, in the transaction details screen for viewing, the OK button (728) is not displayed in order to input information indicating that the attendant check, which was displayed on the transaction details screen, has been completed. That is, the transaction details screen for viewing allows one to check the product details of the registered product, but the completion operation of the attendant check is disabled (impossible).

[0202] In addition, making the transaction details screen for viewing, which is displayed via the status operator's selection operation, different in specifications from the transaction details screen displayed via other operation methods is based on the following circumstances.

[0203] First, the operation method by inputting a terminal code through the terminal code input field (622) or reading an accounting barcode through the scanner unit (64) is performed while the attendant is facing the customer, so the input (or reading) of the corresponding customer's terminal code or accounting barcode is performed accurately. On the other hand, the operation method by the status operator selects the status of one customer from among the statuses (status operators) of multiple customers displayed on the status display unit (626). Therefore, compared to other operation methods, the operation method by the status operator is prone to errors, and there is a possibility that the completion operation of the attendant check will be performed from an incorrectly displayed transaction statement screen.

[0204] In the attendant PC (6) of the present embodiment, depending on the operation method, a transaction statement screen with the attendant check completion operation enabled and a transaction statement screen with the attendant check completion operation disabled are switched and displayed. By doing so, the attendant PC (6) can prevent a situation where the attendant check completion operation is performed from an incorrectly displayed transaction statement screen.

[0205] In addition, in the transaction details screen for viewing of FIG. 23, the OK button (728) is not displayed, but the method of invalidation is not limited to this, and may be displayed in a grayed-out state that is, for example, unoperable.

[0206] Returning to Fig. 22, the explanation continues. After displaying the transaction details screen in step S55 or step S57, the control unit (60) determines whether it has received the operation of the back button (727) (step S58). If it has received the operation of the back button (727) ("Yes" in step S58), the control unit (60) clears the transaction details screen and returns the processing to step S51, thereby displaying the transaction list screen on the display unit (62).

[0207] Additionally, if the operation of the back button (727) is not received ("No" in step S58), the control unit (60) determines whether the operation of the OK button (728) has been received (step S59). Here, if the operation of the OK button (728) has not been received, the control unit (60) returns the processing to step S58. Also, if the transaction details screen for viewing is displayed in step S57, the OK button (728) is disabled, so the control unit (60) does not perform the determination processing of step S59 and waits for the back button (727) to be operated in step S58 ("No" in step S58).

[0208] When the OK button (728) is operated at step S59 ("Yes" of step S59), the control unit (60) transmits check information including transaction specific information (transaction code or terminal code) regarding the transaction details screen to the server device (2) (step S60). Then, the control unit (60) clears the transaction details screen and returns the processing to step S51, thereby displaying the transaction list screen on the display unit (62).

[0209] In addition, on the transaction details screen, it is possible to perform editing operations on registered products, in addition to verifying the product details of registered items or completing attendant checks. For example, if the results of an attendant check reveal missing registered products or products that are not permitted for purchase by the customer's age (such as alcohol or tobacco), additional product registration or cancellation of registered products can be performed from the transaction details screen.

[0210] Specifically, when a product subject to additional registration is specified on the transaction details screen, the control unit (60) transmits a registration request to the server device (2) that includes a transaction code or terminal code regarding the transaction displayed on the transaction details screen and a product code of the product subject to additional registration. In this case, the control unit (20) of the server device (2) executes product registration based on the registration request, just like the registration request transmitted from the mobile terminal (4). Specifically, the control unit (20) of the server device (2) reads product information corresponding to the product code included in the registration request from the product master (212) and registers it in the transaction information management table (215).

[0211] In addition, the method of designating the target product for additional registration is not particularly important. For example, it may be designated by reading the product barcode. Also, for example, the target product for additional registration may be designated by performing an operation to increase the quantity displayed in the product specification section (726). In this case, the control unit (60) may transmit a registration request for the added quantity, or transmit the registration request including the quantity of the addition.

[0212] Additionally, when a product to be cancelled is designated on the transaction details screen, the control unit (60) transmits a request for cancellation of registration to the server device (2), which includes a transaction code or terminal code regarding the transaction displayed on the transaction details screen and a product code of the product to be cancelled. In this case, the control unit (20) of the server device (2) executes a process to cancel the product registration based on the request for cancellation of registration. Specifically, the control unit (20) of the server device (2) deletes transaction information corresponding to the conditions of the transaction code or terminal code and product code included in the request for cancellation of registration from the transaction information management table (215).

[0213] In addition, the method of designating the product to be cancelled is not specifically required. For example, the product to be cancelled may be designated through the product specification section (726) or by reading the product barcode. In addition, for example, the product to be cancelled may be designated by performing an operation to reduce the quantity of the product specification section (726). In this case, the control unit (60) may transmit a request for cancellation of registration for the reduced quantity or transmit the request for cancellation of registration including the quantity to be cancelled.

[0214] Additionally, the control unit (60) of the attendant PC (6) updates the transaction details screen displayed on the display unit (62) by obtaining the transaction information (store transaction information) after editing from the server device (2) after transmitting a registration request or a registration cancellation request.

[0215] In addition, regarding editing operations through the transaction statement screen, in order to prevent editing operations from being performed on an incorrectly displayed transaction statement screen, it is desirable to display a viewing transaction screen with the editing operations disabled, depending on the operation method used to display the transaction statement screen.

[0216] Specifically, when the control unit (60) is instructed to display a transaction statement screen by either inputting a terminal code through the terminal code input field (622) or reading an accounting barcode through the scanner unit (64), it displays a transaction statement screen with the editing operation enabled. On the other hand, when the control unit (60) is instructed to display a transaction statement screen by using a status operator displayed in the product statement unit (726), it displays a transaction statement screen for viewing with the editing operation disabled. By doing so, the attendant PC (6) can prevent a situation in which an editing operation to edit transaction details is performed from an incorrectly displayed transaction statement screen.

[0217] FIG. 24 is a sequence chart showing an example of the flow of transaction editing processing performed between an attendant PC (6) and a server device (2). In addition, this sequence chart shows the flow of the transaction content editing operation performed while the transaction details screen is displayed on the attendant PC (6). In addition, the transaction details screen is displayed by either the input of a terminal code through the terminal code input field (622) or the reading of an accounting barcode through the scanner unit (64).

[0218] When the control unit (60) of the attendant PC (6) receives an editing operation for a product based on the transaction details screen (step S71), it transmits an editing request to the server device (2) that includes the transaction code or terminal code of the transaction regarding the transaction details screen and the product code of the product to be edited (step S72). For example, if the content of the editing operation is the additional registration of a product, the control unit (60) transmits a registration request to the server device (2) as an editing request that includes the transaction code or product code of the transaction regarding the transaction details screen and the product code of the product to be additionally registered. In addition, for example, if the content of the editing operation is the cancellation of a product registration, the control unit (60) transmits a registration cancellation request to the server device (2) as an editing request that includes the transaction code or product code of the transaction regarding the transaction details screen and the product code of the product to be canceled.

[0219] The control unit (20) of the server device (2) edits transaction information regarding the transaction and product specified in the edit request based on the received edit request (step S73). For example, if a registration request is received as an edit request, the control unit (20) of the server device (2) reads product information corresponding to the product code included in the registration request from the product master (212) and registers it in the transaction information management table (215). Additionally, for example, if a registration cancellation request is received as an edit request, the control unit (20) of the server device (2) deletes transaction information corresponding to the conditions of the transaction code, terminal code, or product code included in the registration cancellation request from the transaction information management table (215).

[0220] Next, the control unit (60) of the attendant PC (6) transmits a transaction information request to the server device (2) specifying the transaction code or terminal code of the transaction to be edited (step S74).

[0221] The control unit (20) of the server device (2) extracts transaction information corresponding to the transaction code or terminal code included in the transaction information request, i.e., transaction information after editing, from the transaction information management table (215) (step S75). The server device (2) transmits the extracted transaction information to the attendant PC (6) (step S76).

[0222] Then, the control unit (60) of the attendant PC (6) updates and displays the transaction details screen based on the transaction information transmitted from the server device (2) (step S77).

[0223] In addition, in this embodiment, the configuration is such that after editing the transaction content, the transaction information is obtained from the server device (2) by transmitting a transaction information request from the attendant PC (6), but it is not limited thereto. For example, the configuration may be such that the control unit (20) of the server device (2) edits the transaction information and then transmits the transaction information to the attendant PC (6), thereby allowing the attendant PC (6) to obtain the transaction information after editing.

[0224] Next, the attendant check determination process executed by the server device (2) will be described. FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the attendant check determination process by the control unit (20) of the server device (2).

[0225] The control unit (20) determines whether the transmitting / receiving means (2001) has received a request for transaction information from the accounting unit (5) (step S81), and if it has not received it ("No" in step S81), it returns to the processing of step S81 and waits.

[0226] When the transmitting and receiving means (2001) receives a transaction information request ("Yes" in step S81), the information management means (2002) reads transaction information corresponding to the transaction code included in the transaction information request from the transaction information management table (215) (step S82).

[0227] Next, the information processing means (2003) determines whether the read transaction information has completed the attendant check (step S83). Specifically, the information processing means (2003) determines whether "1" is registered in the attendant check flag of the read transaction information.

[0228] If the read transaction information is attentive check completed ("Yes" in step S83), the transmitting and receiving means (2001) transmits the transaction information to the accountant (5), which is the sender of the transaction information request (step S84). Then, the control unit (20) terminates the attentive check determination process.

[0229] If the read transaction information is not an attendant check complete ("No" in step S83), the transmitting and receiving means (2001) transmits error information to the accountant (5), which is the sender of the transaction information request (step S85). The error information indicates that the transaction information is not transmitted because the attendant check has not been completed. Then, the control unit (20) terminates the attendant check determination process.

[0230] By the above attendant check determination process, the server device (2) transmits transaction information to the accounting device (5) only for transactions for which the attendant check has been completed.

[0231] Next, the method for setting up highlight products will be explained. FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating an example of a highlight setting screen displayed by an attendant PC (6). The highlight setting screen is displayed by operating the highlight setting button (625) on the transaction list screen shown in FIG. 17, for example. The display unit (62) of the attendant PC (6) displays an item selection box (821), an importance selection box (822), a display order setting box (823), a display comment setting box (824), a back button (825), and a save button (826) in the highlight setting screen.

[0232] The item selection section (821) displays multiple items and displays a checkbox corresponding to each item. Items include, for example, age verification products, products not registered in the product master, set sales products, automatic discount products, high-priced products, and many other items. The user operating the attendant PC (6) checks the checkbox of the item set as a highlight item in their store.

[0233] The product corresponding to the item selected as a highlight item is set as a highlight item, and a highlight icon (7262) is displayed on the transaction details screen (see FIG. 19). The product corresponding to the item is, for example, a product such as alcohol or tobacco when the item is an age verification product.

[0234] The importance selection section (822) displays radio buttons corresponding to each item. A user operating the attendant PC (6) selects a radio button corresponding to an item set as an important item when checking attendants at their store. For items corresponding to the selected radio button for importance, an important icon (7263) is displayed on the transaction statement screen (see FIG. 19). Additionally, the importance may be selectable only for highlight items that are checked in the checkbox of the item selection section (821), or it may be selectable for items that are not checked in the checkbox of the item selection section (821).

[0235] The display order setting field (823) displays an input field corresponding to each item. A user operating the attendant PC (6) enters the display order into the input field. The display order is the order in which the items are displayed on the transaction statement screen. In the example shown in FIG. 23, the display order of the items not registered in the product master is set to “1”, so when the items not registered in the product master are included in the transaction target, the items not registered in the product master are displayed at the top of the transaction statement screen.

[0236] The display comment setting field (824) displays a comment input field corresponding to each item. A user operating the attendant PC (6) enters a comment into the comment input field as needed. The display comment setting field (824) is configured to allow input only for the highlighted item or the item with selected importance of the corresponding item. The entered comment is displayed as a verification point on the transaction statement screen.

[0237] The back button (825) is an operator for returning to the transaction list screen. The save button (826) is an operator for saving the setting information entered in the highlight setting screen. When the save button (826) is operated, the store information (corporate code, store code) and setting information where the attendant PC (6) is installed are transmitted to the server device (2).

[0238] The server device (2) updates the highlight information management table (214) based on the received store information and setting information. By doing so, the server device (2) can manage the highlight products set at each store.

[0239] Next, a modified example of the attendant check determination process will be described. In the example described above, the server device (2) performs the attendant check determination process, whereas in the modified example, the accounting device (5) performs the attendant check determination process.

[0240] As a premise, the accounting barcode read by the scanner unit of the accounting machine (5) is encoded with a check code indicating whether the attendant check is complete, in addition to the transaction code. For example, in the sequence chart shown in FIG. 15, when the mobile terminal (4) receives an instruction to display the accounting screen at step S33, it generates an accounting barcode to be displayed on the accounting screen. The accounting barcode displayed on the accounting screen is encoded with a check code indicating whether the attendant check is complete, in addition to the transaction code. The customer reads the accounting barcode through the scanner unit of the accounting machine (5).

[0241] FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of an attendant check determination process executed by the control unit of the accounting machine (5).

[0242] The control unit determines whether the accounting barcode has been entered (step S91), and if it has not been entered ("No" in step S91), it returns to the processing of step S91 and waits. If the accounting barcode has been entered, the control unit reads the check code encoded in the accounting barcode (step S92).

[0243] The control unit determines whether the read check code indicates that the attendant check is complete (Step S93). If the attendant check is complete ("Yes" in Step S93), the control unit executes accounting processing (Step S94). The accounting processing is the same as the example described above. Subsequently, the control unit transmits a notification of accounting completion to the server device (2) (Step S95). Then, the control unit terminates the attendant check determination process.

[0244] In the processing of step S63, if the attendant check is not completed ("No" in step S93), the control unit displays error information on the display unit of the accounting machine (5) (step S96). The displayed error information indicates, for example, a situation where payment cannot be made because the attendant check has not been completed. Then, the control unit terminates the attendant check determination process.

[0245] As described above, the attendant PC (6) of the embodiment is configured to communicate with a server device (2) that manages transaction-specific information (transaction code or terminal code) that specifies one transaction, transaction information indicating the details of the product registered in the one transaction, status information (status) indicating the status of the customer who registers the product, and check completion information (attendant check flag) that is registered when the check by the clerk is completed for the product registered by the customer's operation. The attendant PC (6) displays a transaction list screen that lists the customer's status information regarding each transaction managed by the server device (2), and when it receives an operation to specify a specific transaction, it displays a transaction details screen that includes an OK button (728) for receiving an attendant check operation, along with displaying the transaction information of the specified transaction. Additionally, the attendant PC (6) displays a transaction details screen in which the OK button (728) is enabled or disabled according to the operation method that receives the transaction designation.

[0246] Accordingly, in the attendant PC (6) where the attendant check is performed, a transaction specification screen can be displayed in which the OK button (728) is set to be valid or invalid depending on the operation method when specifying the transaction. Because of this, the occurrence of an attendant check being performed on a transaction that was incorrectly selected (specified) can be reduced. Therefore, the check operation by the attendant becomes easier.

[0247] Additionally, the server device (2) comprises a transaction management means (information management means (2002)) that manages transaction specific information (transaction code or terminal code) that specifies a transaction, transaction information required for accounting processing for a customer to make a payment, and check completion information (attendant check flag) that is registered when a check by a clerk is completed for a product registered by the customer's operation, a receiving means (transmission / reception means (2001)) that receives a transaction information request including the transaction specific information, and an output means (transmission / reception means (2001)) that outputs transaction information corresponding to the transaction specific information, provided that the transaction specific information included in the transaction information request received by the receiving means is registered in correspondence with the check completion information.

[0248] Accordingly, the server device (2) can induce the customer to receive an attendant check before making a payment at the accounting machine (5). Because of this, the check operation by the attendant becomes easier.

[0249] Additionally, the server device (2) of the embodiment further comprises a mode setting means (2004) capable of setting a front check mode in which the output means outputs the transaction information under the condition that the transaction specific information is registered in correspondence with the check completion information when the receiving means receives the transaction information request, and a normal mode in which the output means outputs the transaction information without the condition that the transaction specific information is registered in correspondence with the check completion information when the receiving means receives the transaction information request.

[0250] Accordingly, the server device (2) can select the mode of the mobile self-checkout system (3) as either a front check mode or a normal mode. Because of this, the store can adopt a mode of the mobile self-checkout system (3) suitable for its own operation.

[0251] As described above, the transaction management system (1) of the embodiment has a server device (2), an attendant PC (6), and an accounting machine (5). The server device (2) manages transaction specific information (transaction code or terminal code) that specifies one transaction, transaction information indicating the details of the product registered in the one transaction, status information (status) indicating the status of the customer who registers the product, and check completion information (attendant check flag) that is registered when the check by the clerk is completed for the product registered by the customer's operation. Additionally, when the server device (2) receives a transaction information request including transaction specific information from the accounting machine (5), it outputs transaction information corresponding to said transaction specific information to the accounting machine (5), provided that the transaction specific information included in the received transaction information request is registered in correspondence with the check completion information. The attendant PC (6) displays a transaction list screen that lists customer status information regarding each transaction managed by the server device (2), and when it receives an operation to specify a particular transaction, it displays a transaction details screen that includes an OK button (728) for receiving an attendant check operation, along with displaying transaction information of the specified transaction. Then, the attendant PC (6) transmits transaction specific information and check completion information to the server device (2) on the condition that the OK button (728) is operated. Additionally, the accounting device (5) transmits a transaction information request to the server device (2), and when it receives transaction information from the server device (2) as a response to the transaction information request, it executes accounting processing based on the received transaction information. Additionally, the attendant PC (6) displays a transaction specification screen with the OK button (728) enabled or disabled according to the operation method of receiving the transaction designation, and the server device (2) registers the check completion information corresponding to the transaction specific information when check information including transaction specific information is transmitted from the attendant terminal (6).

[0252] Accordingly, the transaction management system (1) can induce the customer to receive an attendant check before making a payment at the accounting machine (5). This makes the check operation by the attendant easier. Additionally, on the attendant PC (6) where the attendant check is performed, a transaction details screen can be displayed with the OK button (728) set to valid or invalid depending on the operation method used when designating the transaction. This reduces the occurrence of an attendant check being performed for a transaction that was incorrectly selected (designated).

[0253] Additionally, the transaction management system (1) of the embodiment further includes an attendant PC (6) operated by a clerk, and the attendant PC (6) displays transaction information received from the server device (2), corresponds input check completion information and transaction specific information, and transmits this to the server device (2), and the server device (2) stores the received check completion and transaction specific information in correspondence.

[0254] By this, the attendant can perform an attendant check while verifying the customer's transaction information on the attendant PC (6) and input check completion information into the attendant PC (6). Because of this, the check work by the attendant becomes easier.

[0255] In addition, the attendant PC (6) of the transaction management system (1) of the embodiment displays the transaction information by highlighting a specific product (highlight product) that has been pre-set. Furthermore, the attendant PC (6) of the transaction management system (1) of the embodiment displays a comment regarding the check of the product for each specific product.

[0256] As a result, the attendant can easily identify the items to be checked. This makes the checking process easier for the attendant.

[0257] In addition, in the above embodiment, the control program executed on each device of the server device (2), mobile terminal (4), accounting device (5), and attendant PC (6) may be configured to be provided by recording it on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM. Furthermore, the control program executed on each device of the above embodiment may be configured to be provided by storing it on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and downloading it via the network, or furthermore, configured to be provided via a network such as the Internet.

[0258] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments may be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications may be made within the scope of not departing from the essence of the invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0259] 1: Transaction Management System 2: Server device 4: Mobile device 5: Accounting 6: Attendant PC (Information processing device, attendant terminal) 6001: Means of transmission and reception 6002: Input means (reception means) 6003: Reading means 6004: Information Management Means 6005: Display control means (first display means, second display means)

Claims

Claim 1 1. An information processing device capable of communicating with a management device that manages transaction-specific information for specifying a transaction, transaction information indicating details of a product registered in the 1 transaction, status information indicating the status of a customer performing the registration of the product, and check-complete information registered when a check by a clerk is completed for a product registered by the customer's operation, wherein the information processing device comprises: a first display means for displaying a first screen that lists the customer's status information regarding each transaction managed by the management device; a method for directly inputting transaction-specific information or a method for reading transaction-specific information from a code symbol displayed on a terminal operated by the customer; a receiving means for receiving an operation for specifying a specific transaction; and a second display means for displaying a second screen that includes an operator for receiving a check operation by a clerk, along with displaying transaction information for the specific transaction, wherein the second display means displays the second screen in which the operator is made valid or invalid according to the operation method received by the receiving means. Claim 2 In claim 1, the second display means is an information processing device that displays the second screen validating the operator when the specific transaction is designated, using an operation method for directly inputting transaction-specific information. Claim 3 An information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the operation method for reading transaction-specific information from a code symbol displayed on a terminal operated by the customer, and wherein, when the specific transaction is designated, the second screen that validates the operator is displayed. Claim 4 In claim 1, the second display means is an information processing device that displays the second screen with the operator invalidated when the transaction corresponding to the state information is designated as the specific transaction, by an operation method of selecting one state information from the state information listed on the first screen. Claim 5 In claim 1, the second display means is an information processing device that displays the second screen, wherein the editing operation of the transaction information displayed on the second screen is made valid or invalid according to the operation method received by the receiving means. Claim 6 A transaction management system comprising a server device, an attendant terminal, and an accounting unit, wherein the server device comprises a transaction management means for managing in correspondence transaction specific information specifying one transaction, transaction information indicating the details of a product registered in the one transaction, status information indicating the status of a customer performing the registration of the product, and check completion information registered when a clerk completes a check for a product registered by the customer's operation, a request receiving means for receiving a transaction information request including the transaction specific information from the accounting unit, and an output means for outputting transaction information corresponding to the transaction specific information to the accounting unit on the condition that the transaction specific information included in the received transaction information request is registered in correspondence with the check completion information, and wherein the attendant terminal comprises a first display means for displaying a first screen listing the customer's status information regarding each transaction managed by the server device, a receiving means for receiving an operation designating a specific transaction, a second display means for displaying a second screen including an operator for receiving a check operation by the clerk while displaying transaction information of the specific transaction, and wherein, on the condition that the operator is operated, the specific transaction A transaction management system comprising: a transmission means for transmitting check information instructing transaction specific information to the server device; an accounting device having a receiving means for receiving transaction information as a response to the transaction information request while transmitting the transaction information request to the server device; and an accounting processing means for executing accounting processing based on the received transaction information; a second display means displaying the second screen in which the operator is valid or invalid according to the operation method received by the receiving means; and a transaction management means registering the check completion information corresponding to the transaction specific information instructed in the check information when the check information is transmitted from the attendant terminal.

Images