Electronic receipt system, server apparatus, and program recording medium

Abstract

This electronic receipt system stores transaction files. Then, a transaction file of a transaction in which receipt data is not generated is extracted from the stored transaction files. When it is determined that an object person identified by object person identification information described in the extracted transaction file is a user of an electronic receipt service, receipt data is generated on the basis of data related to the details of the transaction described in the transaction file and outputted to a receipt server.

Description

Electronic receipt system, server device, and program recording medium

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an electronic receipt system, a server device included in the system, and a program recording medium on which a program for causing a computer to realize the functions of the server device is recorded.

[0002] In recent years, so-called electronic receipt services, which allow consumers to receive electronic receipts on information terminals such as smartphones, have become popular. Consumers can use the electronic receipt service by registering as a member with the company that operates the service. Many stores also offer membership services such as point programs in order to attract customers. By registering as a member with a store, consumers can receive the store's membership services.

[0003] Incidentally, a consumer who has registered as a member with an operating company of an electronic receipt service is assigned identification information for identifying the consumer, a so-called electronic receipt ID. The consumer can receive the electronic receipt service by presenting the electronic receipt ID when making a payment at a store that uses the electronic receipt service. Similarly, a consumer who has registered as a member with a store that offers membership services is assigned identification information for identifying the consumer, a so-called store member ID. The consumer can receive the membership services by presenting the store member ID when making a payment at the store where he / she has registered as a member.

[0004] However, consumers cannot receive both the electronic receipt service and the member service unless they present their electronic receipt ID and store member ID when paying for a transaction at a store. To solve this inconvenience, the electronic receipt ID and store member ID of the same consumer are linked. Technology has already been put into practical use that allows consumers to receive both the electronic receipt service and the member service by simply presenting their store member ID when paying for a transaction at a store.

[0005] Generally, information about consumers who have registered as members at a store is managed by the store's server device. For this reason, if the server device is offline when a payment is made using the store's payment device, it will be impossible to determine whether the electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID of the consumer who made the payment. If the electronic receipt ID cannot be recognized, the payment device will not be able to digitize the receipt and will have to issue a paper receipt.

[0006] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-031392

[0007] The problem that the embodiments of the present invention aim to solve is to provide a technology that allows receipts to be digitized later even if the consumer's identification information required to receive an electronic receipt service cannot be obtained.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of an electronic receipt system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the circuit configuration of the receipt server. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of an association table. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the circuit configuration of the member server. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the circuit configuration of the store server. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing major data items described in a transaction file. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the circuit configuration of the POS terminal. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the circuit configuration of the conversion server. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the main information processing procedures executed by a processor of the POS terminal. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the main information processing procedures executed by a processor of the POS terminal. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the main information processing procedures executed by a processor of the store server. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the main information processing procedures executed by a processor of the conversion server. FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram when the POS terminal acquires an electronic receipt ID from the member server. FIG. 14 is a sequence diagram when the conversion server acquires an electronic receipt ID from the receipt server. Fig. 15 shows an example of a receipt image when the POS terminal acquires an electronic receipt ID from the member server, and Fig. 16 shows an example of a receipt image when the conversion server acquires an electronic receipt ID from the receipt server. Embodiment

[0009] In one embodiment, the electronic receipt system includes a first generation unit, a storage unit, an extraction unit, a second generation unit, and an output unit. When the first generation unit has acquired, from information held by a first server, that the subject of a transaction settled on the payment device is a user of an electronic receipt service that receives a receipt showing transaction details in electronic data at the time the transaction is settled, the first generation unit generates receipt data by digitizing the receipt showing the transaction details. The storage unit stores a transaction file that describes subject identification information that identifies the subject of the transaction settled on the payment device and data related to the transaction details. The extraction unit extracts, from the transaction files stored by the storage unit, transaction files for transactions for which receipt data has not been generated. When the second generation unit has acquired, from information held by a second server different from the first server, that the subject identified by the subject identification information described in the transaction file extracted by the extraction unit is a user of the electronic receipt service, the second generation unit generates receipt data based on the data related to the transaction details described in the transaction file. The output unit outputs the receipt data generated by the first generation unit or the second generation unit to a receipt server that manages the receipt data.

[0010] Hereinafter, an embodiment of an electronic receipt system that can digitize a receipt later even if the consumer's identification information required to receive the electronic receipt service cannot be obtained will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0011] First, this embodiment illustrates an electronic receipt system in which a consumer's electronic receipt ID and store member ID are linked, so that the consumer can receive both the electronic receipt service and the member service simply by presenting the store member ID of the store when making a payment at the store. The member service is, for example, a point service that awards points in proportion to the transaction amount. However, the member service is not limited to a point service.

[0012] An electronic receipt ID is identification information assigned to a consumer by an operating company of an electronic receipt service when the consumer registers as a member with the operating company of the electronic receipt service. A consumer who wants to use the electronic receipt service installs dedicated application software compatible with the electronic receipt service, known as an electronic receipt app, on an information terminal such as a smartphone or tablet. The consumer then registers as a member with the operating company of the electronic receipt service using the electronic receipt app. By registering as a member, the operating company assigns the consumer unique identification information, known as an electronic receipt ID. For example, when the electronic receipt app is launched on an information terminal, the electronic receipt ID is displayed in the form of a machine-readable code such as a barcode or two-dimensional code on the top screen displayed on the display device of the information terminal. Hereinafter, a consumer who has registered as a member with the operating company of the electronic receipt service will be referred to as an electronic receipt member.

[0013] A store member ID is identification information assigned to a consumer by a store when the consumer registers with the store to receive member services. A consumer who wishes to receive member services installs dedicated application software for the member service, known as a store member app, on an information terminal such as a smartphone or tablet. The consumer then registers as a member with the store using the store member app. By registering as a member, the store assigns the consumer a unique identification information, known as a store member ID. The store member ID is displayed in the form of a machine-readable code, such as a barcode or two-dimensional code, on the top screen displayed on the display device of the information terminal when the store member app is launched on the information terminal. Alternatively, the store member ID may be recorded on a membership card issued to the consumer by the store upon registration. The membership card may be a magnetic card on which the store member ID is magnetically recorded, or a contact or contactless IC card on which the store member ID is stored in the memory of an IC chip. It may also be a card-shaped medium made of paper, plastic, or other material on which the store member ID is printed as a machine-readable code. Hereinafter, a consumer who registers as a member with a store will be referred to as a store member.

[0014] A store may be an independent store or a chain store consisting of multiple affiliated stores. There are no particular limitations on the type of store. It may be a store that sells goods, such as a supermarket, convenience store, or specialty retail store, or a store that provides services, such as a barber shop, rental shop, or bowling alley. Essentially, it is sufficient for a store to issue a receipt showing details of a transaction involving the sale of goods or the provision of services when the transaction is settled with the consumer who is the subject of the transaction. The receipt records details such as the name and price of the items transacted, the total amount of the transaction, payment information for that total amount, and the date and time of the transaction.

[0015] In this embodiment, a transaction refers not only to the act of purchasing a product at a store that sells the product and paying for it, but also to the act of receiving a service at a store that provides the service and paying for it. The target of the transaction is referred to as a consumer. The term "consumer" can also be referred to as the target of the transaction or the transaction recipient. In this embodiment, a chain store is used as an example of a store that provides an electronic receipt service and membership services.

[0016] (Explanation of Electronic Receipt System) Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of an electronic receipt system 100 according to this embodiment. The electronic receipt system 100 includes a receipt management system 10, a headquarters system 20, a plurality of store systems 30, and a conversion server 40. The receipt management system 10, the headquarters system 20, and the conversion server 40 are connected via a first communication network NWa, the headquarters system 20 and each store system 30 are connected via a second communication network NWb, and the headquarters system 20 and the conversion server 40 are connected via a third communication network NWc, thereby configuring the electronic receipt system 100. The first communication network NMa, the second communication network NWb, and the third communication network NWc are, for example, the Internet, an intranet, a VPN (virtual private network), etc. In addition, in Figure 1, the first communication network NMa, the second communication network NWb, and the third communication network NWc are shown as independent networks, but it is also possible to integrate two or more communication networks into one.

[0017] The receipt management system 10 is a system managed by an operating company of an electronic receipt service. The receipt management system 10 includes a receipt server 11. The receipt server 11 is a computer device that provides a service that enables an electronic receipt member to view images of receipts issued to that electronic receipt member on an information terminal 200 owned by that electronic receipt member. The receipt server 11 may provide the service in an on-premise environment, or may provide the service in a cloud computing environment.

[0018] The information terminal 200 is a portable communication terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet. At least an electronic receipt app is installed in the information terminal 200. In addition to the electronic receipt app, a shop member app may also be installed in the information terminal 200.

[0019] The receipt server 11 stores receipt data that is digitized from receipts issued to each electronic receipt member by stores that offer the electronic receipt service. When the receipt server 11 receives an inquiry about an electronic receipt from the information terminal 200 via the fourth communication network NWd, it extracts the receipt data for that electronic receipt member. The receipt server 11 transmits receipt image data based on the extracted receipt data to the information terminal 200 via the fourth communication network NWd. Thus, the inquired receipt is displayed as an image on the display device of the information terminal 200.

[0020] In this way, the fourth communication network NWd is a wide-area network that allows data transfer between the receipt server 11 and the information terminal 200 owned by each electronic receipt member. As the fourth communication network NWd, for example, the Internet, a mobile communication network, a public communication network, etc. can be used alone or in appropriate combination.

[0021] The headquarters system 20 is a system established at the headquarters of a chain store. The headquarters system 20 includes a headquarters server 21, a member server 22, a first communication server 23, a second communication server 24, and a third communication server 25. The headquarters server 21, the member server 22, the first communication server 23, the second communication server 24, and the third communication server 25 are each connected to a headquarters intra-network 26. The headquarters intra-network 26 is typically a LAN (Local Area Network). The LAN may be a wired LAN or a wireless LAN. The headquarters server 21, the member server 22, the first communication server 23, the second communication server 24, and the third communication server 25 each communicate data with each other via the headquarters intra-network 26.

[0022] The headquarters server 21 is a computer device that collects information on transactions processed by the payment devices of each affiliated store from each store system 30 and processes that information to appropriately generate and output data related to headquarters operations. Data related to headquarters operations includes, for example, sales data and loss data for each affiliated store.

[0023] The member server 22 is a computer device that provides services for managing information on consumers who have become store members. Consumer information includes, for example, the value of service points held by the consumer. Specifically, the member server 22 accumulates points awarded to store members according to the amount of a transaction made with a store member at each affiliated store. When a store member requests a point exchange, the member server 22 subtracts the requested points from the store member's accumulated points and provides the store member with a benefit equivalent to the subtracted points. Benefits include, for example, a discount on the transaction amount or the issuance of a gift certificate.

[0024] The first communication server 23 is a computer device that provides a communication service to send or receive data via the first communication network NWa with the receipt server 11 of the receipt management system 10. The second communication server 24 is a computer device that provides a communication service to send or receive data via the third communication network NWc with the conversion server 40. The third communication server 25 is a computer device that provides a communication service to send or receive data via the second communication network NWb with the communication server 33 of each store system 30.

[0025] The store system 30 is a system established in each affiliated store of a chain store. A separate store system 30 is established for each affiliated store. The store system 30 includes a store server 31, multiple POS (Point of Sales) terminals 32, and a communication server 33. The store server 31, multiple POS terminals 32, and communication server 33 are connected to an in-store network 34 installed within the store. The in-store network 34 is typically a LAN. The LAN may be a wired LAN or a wireless LAN. The store server 31, multiple POS terminals 32, and communication server 33 communicate data with each other via the in-store network 34.

[0026] The store server 31 is a computer device that provides a service of collecting information on transactions settled at each POS terminal 32 functioning as a settlement device from each POS terminal 32, processing the information, and appropriately generating and outputting data related to store operation. Data related to store operation includes, for example, sales data by product, inventory data, etc.

[0027] The POS terminal 32 is a payment device that registers data on items purchased by consumers and settles transactions with those consumers. The POS terminal 32 may be a face-to-face POS terminal in which a store clerk handles the registration and settlement operations, or a self-service POS terminal in which the consumer handles the registration and settlement operations. Alternatively, the POS terminal 32 may be a shared-service POS terminal in which a store clerk handles the registration operation and the consumer handles the settlement operation. Well-known face-to-face POS terminals, self-service POS terminals, and shared-service POS terminals can all be used. The POS terminal 32 can also be referred to as an electronic cash register, checkout device, product sales data processing device, product registration device, etc. The payment device may, for example, be a payment device (checkout device) that does not have a registration function for registering products but has the function of processing payments based on the registered information. The payment device may also be a system including a tablet device for inputting or displaying product information and a server connected to the tablet device via a communication network. In this case, the tablet device functions as a device for inputting and displaying product information. The server functions as a device for receiving and registering the product information input by the tablet device and executing payment processing based on the registered information.

[0028] The communication server 33 is a computer device that provides a communication service for transmitting or receiving data to or from the third communication server 25 of the headquarters system 20 via the second communication network NWb.

[0029] The conversion server 40 is a computer device that provides a service in the case where a transaction with an electronic receipt member has been settled at the POS terminal 32 but the receipt could not be digitized. The conversion server 40 obtains data related to the transaction, so-called transaction data, from the store system 30, converts the data into receipt data, and outputs the data to the receipt server 11. In other words, the conversion server 40 is an example of a server device included in the electronic receipt system 100. The conversion server 40 may provide the service in an on-premise environment, or may provide the service in a cloud computing environment.

[0030] Although details will be described later, for example, if a transaction with an electronic receipt member is settled at the POS terminal 32 while the member server 22 is offline, the POS terminal 32 may not be able to obtain the electronic receipt ID of that electronic receipt member. If the POS terminal 32 cannot obtain the electronic receipt ID, it cannot generate receipt data. In such cases, the conversion server 40 obtains the transaction data of that transaction from the store system 30, converts the data into receipt data, and outputs it to the receipt server 11.

[0031] (Explanation of Receipt Server) Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the receipt server 11. The receipt server 11 includes a processor 111, a main memory 112, an auxiliary storage device 113, a first communication interface 114, a second communication interface 115, and a system transmission path 116. The system transmission path 116 includes an address bus, a data bus, and control signal lines. The system transmission path 116 connects the processor 111 to each of the other components directly or via a signal input / output circuit, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0032] The receipt server 11 is configured as a computer by connecting a processor 111 , a main memory 112 , an auxiliary storage device 113 , a first communication interface 114 , and a second communication interface 115 via a system transmission line 116 .

[0033] The processor 111 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 111 controls each part to realize the various functions of the receipt server 11 according to an operating system or application program. The processor 111 may be a processing circuit such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), or a field programmable gate array (FPGA)). The processor 111 is not limited to being configured as a single processing circuit, but may also be configured as a combination of multiple processing circuits. The processor 111 is preferably a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0034] The main memory 112 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 112 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 112 stores an operating system or application programs in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 112 may also store data required for the processor 111 to execute processes for controlling each component in either the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 112 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data can be rewritten by the processor 111 as appropriate. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0035] The auxiliary storage device 113 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, the auxiliary storage device 113 may be an EEPROM (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), a HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or an SSD (Solid State Drive). The auxiliary storage device 113 stores data used by the processor 111 when performing various processes, data created by the processes of the processor 111, etc. The auxiliary storage device 113 may also store the application programs described above.

[0036] The first communication interface 114 is an interface for performing data communication between the first communication server 23 of the headquarters system 20 and the conversion server 40 via the first communication network NWa.

[0037] The second communication interface 115 is an interface for performing data communication with the information terminal 200 via the fourth communication network NWd.

[0038] In the receipt server 11 configured as above, part of the storage area of ​​the auxiliary storage device 113 is used as an area for the receipt file 51 and an area for the linkage table 52. The receipt file 51 is a data file for storing the receipt data described above.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 3 , the linkage table 52 is a data table that links the electronic receipt ID of an electronic receipt member with the store member ID of a store member. The linkage table 52 is created for each store that provides the electronic receipt service and the member service. That is, when an electronic receipt member becomes a member of a store that provides the member service, the store member ID of the electronic receipt member is entered in association with the electronic receipt ID of the electronic receipt member in the linkage table 52 of the store. In this way, when a user of a member service that can obtain benefits by becoming a member is a user of the electronic receipt service, the linkage table 52 stores the first user identification information that identifies the user of the member service, i.e., the store member ID, and the second user identification information that identifies the user of the electronic receipt service, i.e., the electronic receipt ID, in association with each other. Here, the linkage table 52 functions as a storage means provided in the receipt server 11.

[0040] The processor 111 of the receipt server 11 functions as a providing unit 53. The function of the providing unit 53 is realized by the processor 111 performing information processing based on a first control program. The first control program is a type of application software stored in the main memory 112 or the auxiliary storage device 113. There are no particular limitations on the method for installing the first control program in the main memory 112 or the auxiliary storage device 113. The first control program can be installed in the main memory 322 or the auxiliary storage device 323 by recording it on a removable recording medium or by distributing the first control program via communication over a network. The recording medium can be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device.

[0041] The providing unit 53 has a function of periodically providing the information stored in the storage unit, i.e., the data of the linkage table 52, to the first server. In this embodiment, the first server is the member server 22. For example, at a predetermined time each day, the processor 111 provides the data of the linkage table 52 for each store to the member server 22 provided in the headquarters system 20 of the store. Specifically, the processor 111 extracts the linkage table 52 of a store that has the headquarters system 20 and transmits the extracted data of the linkage table 52 to the member server 22 via the first communication interface 114. The data of the linkage table 52 transmitted from the first communication interface 114 is received by the first communication server 23 included in the headquarters system 20 of the corresponding store via the first communication network NWa and then transmitted to the member server 22 via the headquarters intranet 26. The time at which the data of the linkage table 52 is provided to the first server is not particularly limited, but from an operational perspective, it is preferably a predetermined time before the store opens. (Explanation of Member Server) Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the member server 22. The member server 22 comprises a processor 221, a main memory 222, an auxiliary storage device 223, a communication interface 224, and a system transmission path 225. The system transmission path 225 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, etc. The system transmission path 225 connects the processor 221 to each of the other components directly or via a signal input / output circuit, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0042] The member server 22 is configured as a computer by connecting a processor 221 , a main memory 222 , an auxiliary storage device 223 , and a communication interface 224 via a system transmission line 225 .

[0043] The processor 221 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 221 has the same hardware configuration as the processor 111 described above. The processor 221 controls each part to realize various functions of the member server 22 in accordance with an operating system or application program. The processor 221 is, for example, a CPU. The processor 221 is preferably a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0044] The main memory 222 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 222 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 222 stores an operating system or application programs in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 222 may also store data required for the processor 221 to execute processes for controlling each component in either the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 222 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data can be rewritten by the processor 221 as appropriate. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, a ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM.

[0045] The auxiliary storage device 223 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM, a HDD, or an SSD can be the auxiliary storage device 223. The auxiliary storage device 223 stores data used by the processor 221 when performing various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 221, etc. The auxiliary storage device 223 may also store the application programs described above.

[0046] The communication interface 224 is an interface for performing data communication between devices connected via the headquarters network 26, namely the headquarters server 21, the first communication server 23, the second communication server 24, and the third communication server 25.

[0047] In the member server 22 configured as above, part of the storage area of ​​the auxiliary storage device 223 is used as an area for a member database 61 and an area for an association table 521. The association table 521 represents the association table 52 provided to the receipt server 11 by the providing unit 53. The member database 61 stores a member record created for each store member. The member record is associated with a store member ID and stores the current points held by the store member identified by that store member ID.

[0048] The processor 221 of the member server 22 has a function as a search unit 62. The function as the search unit 62 is realized by the processor 221 performing information processing based on a second control program. The second control program is a type of application software stored in the main memory 222 or the auxiliary storage device 223. The method for installing the second control program in the main memory 222 or the auxiliary storage device 223 is not particularly limited. The second control program can be installed in the main memory 222 or the auxiliary storage device 223 by recording it on a removable recording medium or by distributing the second control program via communication over a network. The recording medium can be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device.

[0049] The search unit 62 has a function of searching whether an electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID of a store member. When the search unit 62 acquires the store member ID of a store member who has made a transaction at any POS terminal 32 in the store system 30, the search unit 62 searches the linkage table 521. If the store member ID and the electronic receipt ID are described in association with each other, the search unit 62 determines that the electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID. The search unit 62 then transmits the electronic receipt ID to the POS terminal 32 that made the transaction for the store member identified by the store member ID.

[0050] (Explanation of Store Server) Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the store server 31. The store server 31 includes a processor 311, a main memory 312, an auxiliary storage device 313, a clock 314, a communication interface 315, and a system transmission path 316. The system transmission path 316 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, etc. The system transmission path 316 connects the processor 311 to each of the other components directly or via a signal input / output circuit, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0051] The store server 31 is configured as a computer by connecting a processor 311 , a main memory 312 , an auxiliary storage device 313 , a clock 314 and a communication interface 315 via a system transmission line 316 .

[0052] The processor 311 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 311 has the same hardware configuration as the processor 111 described above. The processor 311 controls each unit to realize various functions of the store server 31 in accordance with an operating system or application programs. The processor 311 is, for example, a CPU. The processor 311 is preferably a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0053] The main memory 312 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 312 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 312 stores an operating system or application programs in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 312 may also store data required for the processor 311 to execute processes for controlling each component in either the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 312 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data can be rewritten by the processor 311 as appropriate. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, a ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM.

[0054] The auxiliary storage device 313 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM, a HDD, or an SSD can be the auxiliary storage device 313. The auxiliary storage device 313 stores data used by the processor 311 when performing various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 311, etc. The auxiliary storage device 313 may also store the application programs described above.

[0055] The clock 314 keeps track of the date and time. The processor 311 processes the date and time kept by the clock 314 as the current date and time.

[0056] The communication interface 315 is an interface for performing data communication with devices connected via the in-store network 34 , that is, each POS terminal 32 and the communication server 33 .

[0057] The store server 31 configured as described above uses part of the memory area of ​​the auxiliary memory device 223 as a storage area 71 for a transaction file 70. The transaction file 70 is a data file that is created each time a transaction is settled at the POS terminal 32. Each time a transaction is settled at the POS terminal 32, the store server 31 receives the transaction file 70 created at that POS terminal 32 via the in-store network 34 and stores it in the storage area 71.

[0058] 6 is a schematic diagram showing the main items of data described in the transaction file 70. As shown in the figure, the transaction file 70 describes data identified by items such as a transaction ID, transaction date and time, register number, responsible person information, purchase data, subtotal amount, tax amount, total data, payment data, store member ID, electronic receipt ID, and processing status ST. The data for each item described in the transaction file 70 is collectively referred to as transaction data. The transaction file 70 stores transaction data in, for example, CSV (Comma Separated Values) format.

[0059] The transaction ID is identification information generated for each transaction to identify each transaction settled at the POS terminal 32. The transaction date and time is the date and time when the transaction was settled. The register number is a number for identifying the POS terminal 32 that settled the transaction. A serial number starting from "1", for example, is set as the register number for each POS terminal 32. The responsible person information is information about the store clerk who operated the POS terminal 32. The store clerk signs in when starting to operate the POS terminal 32. Upon receiving this sign-in operation, the POS terminal 32 sets the employee code, name, etc. of the store clerk as responsible person information.

[0060] Purchase data includes the price and number of items purchased by the consumer who is the subject of the transaction. The subtotal amount is the total amount excluding tax of the items purchased by the subject of the transaction. The tax amount is the total amount of tax levied on the items purchased by the subject of the transaction. Total data is the total number of items purchased by the subject of the transaction and the total price. Payment data is data on the method and amount paid by the consumer for the total amount. For example, if the subject of the transaction pays 100 yen in cash for a total amount of 50 yen, the payment data includes the payment method as cash, the payment amount as 100 yen, and the change as 50 yen.

[0061] When the transaction target is a store member, the store member ID of the store member is described as the store member ID. When the transaction target is not a store member, the store member ID is not included in the transaction file 70. When the transaction target is an electronic receipt member, the electronic receipt ID of the electronic receipt member is described as the electronic receipt ID. When the transaction target is not an electronic receipt member, the electronic receipt ID is not included in the transaction file 70.

[0062] The processing status ST is data indicating the state of the transaction file 70. The state of the transaction file 70 can be an unprocessed state in which processing by the extraction unit 73, which will be described later, has not been performed, or a processed state in which processing by the extraction unit 73 has been performed. In this embodiment, the processing status ST indicating an unprocessed state is set to "0," and the processing status ST indicating a processed state is set to "1."

[0063] It should be noted that the transaction data items are not limited to those shown in Fig. 6. Other items may be added, and some of the items shown in Fig. 1 may be omitted.

[0064] The processor 311 of the store server 31 has functions related to the transaction file 70, including a function as a storage unit 72 and a function as an extraction unit 73. The functions of the storage unit 72 and the extraction unit 73 are realized by information processing executed by the processor 311 in accordance with a third control program. The third control program is a type of application software stored in the main memory 312 or the auxiliary storage device 313. The method for installing the third control program in the main memory 312 or the auxiliary storage device 313 is not particularly limited. The third control program can be installed in the main memory 312 or the auxiliary storage device 313 by recording it on a removable recording medium or by distributing the third control program via communication over a network. The recording medium may be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device.

[0065] The storage unit 72 has a function of storing a transaction file 70 that describes target person identification information that identifies the target person of a transaction settled by the payment device and data related to the transaction details. In this embodiment, the payment device is the POS terminal 32. The target person identification information is a store member ID. The data related to the transaction details includes purchase data, subtotal amount, tax amount, total data, payment data, etc. When the storage unit 72 receives a transaction file 70 from the POS terminal 32, it writes and stores the transaction file 70 in the storage area 71. The storage unit 72 may store only transaction files 70 that describe a store member ID from the POS terminal 32 in the storage area 71. In other words, transaction files 70 that do not include a store member ID do not need to be stored in the storage area 71.

[0066] The extraction unit 73 has a function of extracting transaction files 70 of transactions for which receipt data has not been generated from among the transaction files 70 stored in the storage area 71. Transaction files 70 for transactions for which receipt data has been generated include an electronic receipt ID. The extraction unit 73 extracts transaction files 70 that include a store member ID but do not include an electronic receipt ID from among the transaction files 70 stored in the storage area 71.

[0067] (Description of POS Terminal) Figure 7 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the POS terminal 32. The POS terminal 32 includes a processor 321, main memory 322, auxiliary storage device 323, clock 324, communication interface 325, keyboard 326, display 327, scanner 328, printer 329, card reader 3210, change dispenser 3211, and system transmission path 3212. The system transmission path 3212 includes an address bus, a data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission path 3212 connects the processor 321 to each of the other components directly or via a signal input / output circuit, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0068] The POS terminal 32 constitutes a computer by connecting a processor 321, a main memory 322, an auxiliary storage device 323, a clock 324, and a communication interface 325 via a system transmission path 3212. The POS terminal 32 also connects a keyboard 326, a display 327, a scanner 328, a printer 329, a card reader 3210, a change dispenser 3211, and the like to the system transmission path 3212 via signal input / output circuits (not shown). Note that the devices connected to the system transmission path 3212 are not limited to the above-mentioned devices. Other devices, such as a touch panel or a cashless payment terminal, may also be connected.

[0069] The processor 321 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 321 has the same hardware configuration as the above-mentioned processor 111. The processor 321 controls each part to realize the various functions of the POS terminal 32 in accordance with an operating system or application program. The processor 321 is, for example, a CPU. The processor 321 is preferably a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0070] The main memory 322 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 322 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 322 stores an operating system or application programs in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 322 may also store data required for the processor 321 to execute processes for controlling each component in either the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 322 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data can be rewritten by the processor 321 as appropriate. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, a ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM.

[0071] The auxiliary storage device 323 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM, a HDD, or an SSD can be the auxiliary storage device 323. The auxiliary storage device 323 stores data used by the processor 321 when performing various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 321, etc. The auxiliary storage device 323 may also store the application programs described above.

[0072] The clock 324 keeps track of the date and time. The processor 321 processes the date and time kept by the clock 324 as the current date and time.

[0073] The communication interface 325 is an interface for performing data communication with devices connected via the in-store network 34 , that is, the store server 31 and the communication server 33 .

[0074] The keyboard 326 is an input device equipped with various keys required for registering items and settling transactions. The display 327 is a display device for displaying the names, prices, total amounts, etc. of registered items. The scanner 328 is an input device for reading machine-readable codes such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes. The printer 329 is a printing device for printing data on receipt paper to issue receipts, etc. The card reader 3210 is an input device for reading data recorded on a card medium. The change machine 3211 is a device capable of depositing money and dispensing change.

[0075] The POS terminal 32 configured as described above stores an agent program 81 in the auxiliary storage device 323. The agent program 81 is application software for generating receipt data by digitizing receipts printed and issued by the printer 329. Specifically, the agent program 81 analyzes the print data on the receipt to extract information to be included in the receipt data and determines the item name that indicates what kind of information that information is based on the position of that information on the receipt. The agent program 81 then generates receipt data that associates the extracted information with the item name determined for that information.

[0076] The processor 321 of the POS terminal 32 functions as a member ID acquisition unit 82, an associated ID acquisition unit 83, a file creation unit 84, a printing unit 85, a first generation unit 86, and a first output unit 87. The functions of the member ID acquisition unit 82, the associated ID acquisition unit 83, the file creation unit 84, the printing unit 85, the first generation unit 86, and the first output unit 87 are realized by the processor 321 performing information processing based on a fourth control program. The fourth control program is a type of application software stored in the main memory 322 or the auxiliary storage device 323. There are no particular limitations on the method for installing the fourth control program in the main memory 322 or the auxiliary storage device 323. The fourth control program can be installed in the main memory 322 or the auxiliary storage device 323 by recording it on a removable storage medium or by distributing the fourth control program via communication over a network. The storage medium may be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device.

[0077] The member ID acquisition unit 82 has a function for reading the store member ID of a store member. The store member ID is displayed, for example, in the form of a machine-readable code such as a barcode or two-dimensional code on the display device of the information terminal 200 owned by the store member. Alternatively, the store member ID is recorded on a member card owned by the store member. The member ID acquisition unit 82 reads the machine-readable code displayed on the display device with the scanner 328. Alternatively, the member ID acquisition unit 82 reads the card data recorded on the member card with the card reader 3210. The member ID acquisition unit 82 then acquires the store member ID by analyzing the machine-readable code read by the scanner 328 or the card data read by the card reader 3210.

[0078] The linked ID acquisition unit 83 has a function of acquiring an electronic receipt ID associated with the store member ID acquired by the member ID acquisition unit 82. The electronic receipt ID associated with the store member ID is stored in an association table 521. The association table 521 is included in the member server 22. The linked ID acquisition unit 83 acquires the electronic receipt ID associated with the store member ID from the member server 22.

[0079] The file creation unit 84 has a function of creating a transaction file 70 related to a transaction each time a transaction with a transacting party is settled. When a transaction with a transacting party is settled, the file creation unit 84 creates the transaction file 70 including items such as a transaction ID, transaction date and time, register number, responsible person information, purchase data, subtotal amount, tax amount, total data, payment data, store member ID, electronic receipt ID, and processing status ST, as described with reference to FIG. 6 . At this time, if the store member ID has been acquired by the member ID acquisition unit 82, the file creation unit 84 includes the store member ID in the transaction file 70. If the electronic receipt ID has been acquired by the linked ID acquisition unit 83, the file creation unit 84 includes the electronic receipt ID in the transaction file 70. Conversely, if the store member ID has not been acquired, the store member ID is not included in the transaction file 70. If the electronic receipt ID has not been acquired, the electronic receipt ID is not included in the transaction file 70. The processing status ST is a value “0” indicating an unprocessed state.

[0080] The printing unit 85 has a function of printing a receipt showing details of a transaction when it is not possible to acquire at the time the transaction is settled that the person involved in the transaction is a user of the electronic receipt service. When an electronic receipt ID is acquired by the linked ID acquisition unit 83, the person involved in the transaction is a user of the electronic receipt service. When an electronic receipt ID is not acquired at the time the transaction is settled at the POS terminal 32, the printing unit 85 generates print data for printing a receipt showing details of the transaction, outputs the data to the printer 329, and controls receipt printing.

[0081] The first generation unit 86 has a function of generating receipt data by digitizing a receipt showing details of a transaction when it has acquired, from information held by the first server at the time the transaction is settled, that the person involved in the transaction settled at the POS terminal 32 is a user of an electronic receipt service that receives a receipt showing details of the transaction in electronic data. The first server is the member server 22. The information held by the first server is data in the linkage table 521. When the first generation unit 86 acquires an electronic receipt ID when the transaction is settled at the POS terminal 32, it analyzes the print data of the receipt showing details of the transaction in accordance with the agent program 81 and generates receipt data.

[0082] The first output unit 87 has a function of outputting the receipt data generated by the first generation unit 86 to the receipt server 11. The first output unit 87 controls the receipt data to be sent from the communication interface 325. This control causes the receipt data to be sent to the receipt server 11 via the communication server 33, the second communication network NWb, the first communication server 23, and the first communication network NWa. The receipt data sent to the receipt server 11 is saved in the receipt file 51.

[0083] (Explanation of Conversion Server) Fig. 8 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the conversion server 40. The conversion server 40 comprises a processor 401, a main memory 402, an auxiliary storage device 403, a first communication interface 404, a second communication interface 405, and a system transmission path 406. The system transmission path 406 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, etc. The system transmission path 406 connects the processor 401 to each of the other components directly or via a signal input / output circuit, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0084] The conversion server 40 is configured as a computer by connecting a processor 401 , a main memory 402 , an auxiliary storage device 403 , a first communication interface 404 and a second communication interface 405 via a system transmission line 406 .

[0085] The processor 401 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 401 has the same hardware configuration as the processor 111 described above. The processor 401 controls each unit to realize various functions of the conversion server 40 in accordance with an operating system or application program. The processor 401 is, for example, a CPU. The processor 401 is preferably a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0086] The main memory 402 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 402 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 402 stores an operating system or application programs in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 402 may also store data required for the processor 401 to execute processes for controlling each component in either the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 402 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data can be rewritten by the processor 401 as appropriate. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, a ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM.

[0087] The auxiliary storage device 403 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM, a HDD, or an SSD can be the auxiliary storage device 403. The auxiliary storage device 403 stores data used by the processor 401 when performing various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 401, etc. The auxiliary storage device 403 may also store the application programs described above.

[0088] The first communication interface 404 is an interface for performing data communication with the second communication server 24 of the headquarters system 20 via the third communication network NWc.

[0089] The second communication interface 405 is an interface for performing data communication with the receipt server 11 via the first communication network NWa.

[0090] The conversion server 40 configured as described above stores a receipt digitization program 91 in the auxiliary storage device 403. The receipt digitization program 91 is application software for generating receipt data based on transaction data described in the transaction file 70.

[0091] The processor 401 of the conversion server 40 functions as a file acquisition unit 92, an inquiry unit 93, a second generation unit 94, and a second output unit 95. The functions of the file acquisition unit 92, the inquiry unit 93, the second generation unit 94, and the second output unit 95 are realized by information processing executed by the processor 401 in accordance with a fifth control program. The fifth control program is a type of application software stored in the main memory 402 or the auxiliary storage device 403. The method for installing the fifth control program in the main memory 402 or the auxiliary storage device 403 is not particularly limited. The fifth control program can be installed in the main memory 402 or the auxiliary storage device 403 by recording it on a removable recording medium or by distributing the fifth control program via communication via a network. The recording medium may be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or a memory card, as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device.

[0092] The file acquisition unit 92 has a function of acquiring the transaction file 70 extracted by the extraction unit 73 of the store server 31. The file acquisition unit 92 acquires the transaction file 70 output from the store server 31 of the store system 30 and input to the first communication interface 404 via the second communication network NWb and the third communication network NWc. Each time the file acquisition unit 92 acquires a transaction file 70, it stores the transaction file 70 in the order of acquisition, for example, in the main memory 402.

[0093] The querying unit 93 has a function of searching whether an electronic receipt ID is associated with a store member ID described in the transaction file 70 acquired by the file acquiring unit 92. The querying unit 93 queries the receipt server 11 connected via the first communication network NWa whether an electronic receipt ID is associated with the store member ID. In response to this query, the processor 111 of the receipt server 11 searches the association table 52. If the association table 52 contains the store member ID and the electronic receipt ID associated with each other, the processor 111 transmits the electronic receipt ID to the conversion server 40. When the querying unit 93 receives the electronic receipt ID from the receipt server 11 via the first communication network NWa, the querying unit 93 writes the electronic receipt ID in the transaction file 70 in which the inquiring store member ID is written.

[0094] The second generation unit 94 has a function of generating receipt data based on data related to transaction details described in the transaction file 70, when it has been determined from information held by a second server different from the first server that the target person identified by the target person identification information described in the transaction file 70 extracted by the extraction unit 73, i.e., the transaction file 70 acquired by the file acquisition unit 92, is a user of the electronic receipt service. The first server is the member server 22 that stores the data of the linkage table 521 sent from the receipt server 11. The second server is the receipt server 11 that has the linkage table 52. The target person identification information is a store member ID. If the second generation unit 94 receives an electronic receipt ID as a result of an inquiry made to the receipt server 11 by the inquiry unit 93, the second generation unit 94 recognizes that the target person identified by the target person identification information is a user of the electronic receipt service.

[0095] The second generation unit 94 generates receipt data in accordance with the receipt digitization program 91 based on the data in the transaction file 70, which contains the store member ID, which is the target person identification information. Specifically, the second generation unit 94 analyzes the transaction data in the transaction file 70, which is saved in CSV format, to extract data for items to be included in the receipt data. The second generation unit 94 then generates receipt data from the extracted data for the items and their names.

[0096] The second output unit 95 has a function of outputting the receipt data generated by the second generation unit 94 to the receipt server 11. The second output unit 95 controls the receipt data to be sent from the second communication interface 405. This control causes the receipt data to be sent to the receipt server 11 via the first communication network NWa. The receipt data sent to the receipt server 11 is saved in the receipt file 51.

[0097] (Explanation of Operation of Electronic Receipt System) Figures 9 and 10 are flowcharts showing the main information processing procedures executed by the processor 321 of the POS terminal 32 according to the fourth control program. Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the main information processing procedures executed by the processor 311 of the store server 31 according to the third control program. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the main information processing procedures executed by the processor 401 of the conversion server 40 according to the fifth control program. Below, the main operations of the electronic receipt system 100 will be explained using each figure. Note that the content and procedures of the information processing explained below are just examples. The content and procedures can be changed as appropriate as long as similar effects can be achieved.

[0098] When a command to start a transaction is issued, for example, by pressing a start key on the keyboard 326, the processor 321 of the POS terminal 32 starts information processing according to the procedure shown in the flowchart of Fig. 9. In ACT 1, the processor 321 resets the first flag Fa and the second flag Fb to "0." The first flag Fa and the second flag Fb are both 1-bit data stored in the main memory 322. The functions of the first flag Fa and the second flag Fb will be made clear in the operation explanation below.

[0099] After resetting the first flag Fa and the second flag Fb to "0," the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 2. In ACT 2, the processor 321 checks whether a store member ID has been acquired. If a store member ID has not been acquired, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 3. In ACT 3, the processor 321 checks whether data related to the item to be transacted has been input. If data related to the item has not been input, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 4. In ACT 4, the processor 321 checks whether either the first flag Fa or the second flag Fb is set to "1." At this point, both the first flag Fa and the second flag Fb are reset to "0," so the processor 321 returns to ACT 2. In this way, if both the first flag Fa and the second flag Fb are reset to "0," the processor 321 waits for the store member ID to be acquired or for data related to the item to be input.

[0100] If the transaction target is a store member, the operator of the POS terminal 32 operates the scanner 328 or card reader 3210 to input the store member ID. After inputting the store member ID or if the transaction target is not a store member, the operator inputs data related to the item to be purchased by the transaction target. The data related to the item is, for example, a product code. A product code is a unique code assigned to each product to identify each product individually. Each product is affixed with a barcode representing the product code. The operator can input the data related to the item by having the scanner 328 read the barcode affixed to the product. Note that in the case of a face-to-face POS terminal or a shared POS terminal, the operator is a store clerk. In the case of a self-service POS terminal, the operator is the transaction target.

[0101] In the standby state of ACT 2 and ACT 3, when the processor 321 acquires a store member ID by functioning as the member ID acquisition unit 82, the process proceeds to ACT 5. The processor 321 stores the store member ID in ACT 5. The stored store member ID is target identification information that identifies the target of the transaction settled at the settlement device, i.e., the POS terminal 3.

[0102] Having stored the store member ID, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 6. In ACT 6, the processor 321 inquires of the member server 22 whether an electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID. That is, the processor 321 controls the communication interface 325 to send an inquiry command for the electronic receipt ID to the member server 22. This control causes the inquiry command for the electronic receipt ID to be sent from the communication interface 325. The inquiry command is transmitted in this order through the in-store network 34, the communication server 33, the second communication network NWb, the third communication server 25, and the headquarters network 26, and then sent to the member server 22. The inquiry command includes the store member ID.

[0103] In the member server 22, the function as the search unit 62 searches the linkage table 521. If the electronic receipt ID is described in the linkage table 521 in association with the store member ID included in the inquiry command, a response command including the electronic receipt ID is transmitted to the POS terminal 32 that transmitted the inquiry command. On the other hand, if the electronic receipt ID is not described in the linkage table 521 in association with the store member ID included in the inquiry command, a response command not including the electronic receipt ID is transmitted to the POS terminal 32 that transmitted the inquiry command.

[0104] The processor 321 of the POS terminal 32 that sent the inquiry command proceeds to ACT 7. In ACT 7, the processor 321 waits for a response command from the member server 22. Then, when the response command is received, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 8. In ACT 8, the processor 321 checks whether an electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID. If the electronic receipt ID is included in the response command, the processor 321 determines that the electronic receipt ID is linked. The processor 321 proceeds to ACT 9. In ACT 9, the processor 321 stores the electronic receipt ID included in the response command in the main memory 322. Furthermore, in ACT 10, the processor 321 sets the first flag Fa to "1". Here, the processor 321 realizes the function of the linked ID acquisition unit 83 through the processes in ACT 6 to ACT 9.

[0105] On the other hand, if the processor 321 sends an inquiry command but does not receive a response command after a certain period of time has elapsed in ACT 7, or if the processor 321 receives a response command that does not include an electronic receipt ID in ACT 8, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 11. In ACT 11, the processor 321 sets the second flag Fb to “1.”

[0106] When the first flag Fa is set to "1" in ACT 10, or when the second flag Fb is set to "1" in ACT 11, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 3. The processor 321 checks whether data related to the item has been input in ACT 3. If data related to the item has not been input, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 4. At this point, either the first flag Fa or the second flag Fb is set to "1," so the processor 321 returns to ACT 3.

[0107] In this way, the first flag Fa is set to "1" when the electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID. The second flag Fb is set to "1" when the electronic receipt ID is not linked to the store member ID. After either the first flag Fa or the second flag Fb is set to "1," that is, after the store member ID is acquired, the processor 321 receives input of data related to the item.

[0108] In ACT 3, when data related to an item is input by operating the scanner 328 or the keyboard 326, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 21 in Fig. 10. In ACT 21, the processor 321 executes a registration process. The registration process is a process for registering purchase data, that is, data such as the price and number of items purchased by the consumer who is the transaction target. The data is registered in, for example, a predetermined memory area secured in the main memory 322.

[0109] After executing the registration process, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 22. The processor 321 checks whether a command to output a subtotal has been issued. If a command to output a subtotal has not been issued, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 23. In ACT 23, the processor 321 checks whether either the first flag Fa or the second flag Fb is set to "1." If both the first flag Fa and the second flag Fb are reset to "0," the processor 321 returns to ACT 2. In ACT 2 and ACT 3, the processor 321 waits for the acquisition of a store member ID or the input of data related to an item. On the other hand, if the first flag Fa or the second flag Fb is set to "1," the processor 321 returns to ACT 3. In ACT 3, the processor 321 waits for the input of data related to an item.

[0110] When it is confirmed in ACT 22 that the subtotal output has been instructed, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 24. The processor 321 executes subtotal processing in ACT 24. The subtotal processing is a process of calculating the subtotal amount, tax amount, total amount, etc. based on the purchase data and displaying them on the display 327. After confirming the total amount, the transaction target pays the amount equivalent to that total amount.

[0111] After executing the subtotal processing, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 25. In ACT 25, the processor 321 waits for payment to be made. For example, when cash equal to or greater than the total amount is inserted into the change dispenser 3211, the processor 321 recognizes that payment has been made. The processor 321 proceeds to ACT 26. In ACT 26, the processor 321 executes settlement processing. The settlement processing is a process of calculating the change by subtracting the total amount from the amount inserted into the change dispenser 3211, i.e., the deposited amount, and settling the transaction by dispensing cash equivalent to the change from the change dispenser 3211. Note that the settlement processing is not limited to processing for cash payments. It may also be processing for settling the transaction using other payment methods, such as credit cards, electronic money, or code payment.

[0112] After completing the payment process, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 27. In ACT 27, the processor 321 creates print data for a receipt. After creating the print data, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 28. In ACT 28, the processor 321 checks whether the first flag Fa is set to "1". As described above, the first flag Fa is set to "1" if a response command including an electronic receipt ID is received in response to the inquiry made in ACT 6. In other words, if a response command including an electronic receipt ID is not received, the first flag Fa is not set to "1". Furthermore, if the transaction is settled without obtaining a store member ID in ACT 2, the first flag Fa is not set to "1".

[0113] If the first flag Fa is not set to "1" in ACT 28, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 29. In ACT 29, the processor 321 functions as the printing unit 85, outputting receipt print data to the printer 329 and controlling the issuance of a paper receipt.

[0114] In this way, if the transaction target is not a store member, or if the transaction target is a store member but an electronic receipt ID linked to the store member ID of the store member cannot be obtained, a receipt showing the transaction details is issued as a paper receipt. Therefore, even if the transaction target is a store member and an electronic receipt member, if the response command including the electronic receipt ID to the inquiry in ACT 6 cannot be received because, for example, the member server 22 is offline, the receipt will not be digitized and will be handed over to the transaction target as a paper receipt.

[0115] On the other hand, if the first flag Fa is set to "1" in ACT 28, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 30. The processor 321 executes the electronic receipt creation process in ACT 30. That is, the processor 321, functioning as the first generation unit 86, generates receipt data from the receipt print data in accordance with the agent program 81. The processor 321 then, functioning as the first output unit 87, sends the receipt data to the receipt server 11.

[0116] In this way, if a response command including an electronic receipt ID has been received in response to the inquiry in ACT 6, the receipt is digitized in the POS terminal 32, and the receipt data is sent to the receipt server 11 and saved in the receipt file 51.

[0117] After issuing a paper receipt or sending receipt data, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 31. In ACT 31, the processor 321 uses its function as the file creation unit 84 to create a transaction file 70 that describes data corresponding to each item of transaction data. Then, in ACT 32, the processor 321 sends the transaction file 70 to the store server 31. With this, the processor 321 completes information processing for one transaction.

[0118] Each time a transaction file 70 is transmitted from the POS terminal 32, the processor 311 of the store server 31, by functioning as the storage unit 72, repeats the process of saving the transaction file 70 in the storage area 71. In addition, the processor 311, by functioning as the extraction unit 73, executes the information processing procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. 11 at regular intervals.

[0119] That is, in ACT 41, the processor 311 waits for a certain period of time to elapse since the end of the previous processing. The certain period of time can be any period of time. However, since the processor 311 executes the information processing procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. 11 every time the certain period of time elapses, if the interval of the certain period of time is too short, the load on the processor 311 increases. On the other hand, as will be described in detail later, by executing the information processing procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. 11, even if the electronic receipt ID linked to the store member ID cannot be obtained because the member server 22 is offline, for example, the receipt can be digitized later. Therefore, if the interval of the certain period of time is too long, it takes a long time for the electronic receipt member to receive the electronic receipt, which is not desirable. The certain period of time must be determined taking such circumstances into consideration. In this embodiment, the certain period of time is set to 15 minutes.

[0120] After a certain period of time has elapsed, the processor 311 proceeds to ACT 42. In ACT 42, the processor 311 resets the counter N to "0". Next, the processor 311 proceeds to ACT 43. In ACT 43, the processor 311 detects the transaction files 70 stored in the storage area 71. The processor 311 detects the transaction files 70 in order, starting with the transaction file 70 most recently stored in the storage area 71 and working backward. In ACT 44, the processor 311 checks whether the processing status ST of the detected transaction file 70 is "0". A transaction file 70 with a processing status ST of "0" is a transaction file 70 for which information processing based on the extraction unit 73 has not yet been performed.

[0121] If the processor 311 confirms that the processing status ST of the detected transaction file 70 is "0", the processor 311 proceeds to ACT 45. In ACT 45, the processor 311 checks whether an electronic receipt ID is included in the transaction data of the transaction file 70. If an electronic receipt ID is included in the transaction data of the transaction file 70, the transaction file 70 is a transaction file 70 that describes transaction data related to a transaction with a transaction partner who digitized a receipt at the POS terminal 32. The processor 311 proceeds to ACT 49. The processing from ACT 49 onwards will be described later.

[0122] On the other hand, if the transaction data in the transaction file 70 includes an electronic receipt ID, that is, if a transaction file 70 is detected that describes transaction data related to a transaction with a transaction partner who has not digitized receipts on the POS terminal 32, the processor 311 proceeds to ACT 46. In ACT 46, the processor 311 checks whether the transaction data in the transaction file 70 includes a store member ID. If the transaction data in the transaction file 70 does not include a store member ID, the transaction file 70 is a transaction file 70 that describes transaction data related to a transaction with a non-store member. The processor 311 proceeds to ACT 49. The processing from ACT 49 onwards will be described later.

[0123] On the other hand, if the transaction data in the transaction file 70 includes a store member ID, i.e., if a transaction file 70 describing transaction data related to a transaction with a store member is detected, the processor 311 proceeds to ACT 47. The processor 311 extracts the transaction file in ACT 47. The processor 311 also increments the counter N by "1" in ACT 48. Thereafter, the processor 311 proceeds to ACT 49. The extracted transaction file 70 is temporarily stored in, for example, the main memory 312.

[0124] In this way, when the processor 311 detects a transaction file 70 that includes an electronic receipt ID, or when the processor 311 detects a transaction file 70 that does not include an electronic receipt ID or a store member ID, or when the processor 311 extracts a transaction file 70 that does not include an electronic receipt ID but does include a store member ID, the processor 311 proceeds to ACT 49. In ACT 49, the processor 311 rewrites the processing status ST of the transaction file 70 stored in the storage area 71 from "0" to "1." After that, the processor 311 returns to ACT 43.

[0125] The processor 311 detects the next transaction file 70 from the storage area 71. If the processing status ST of the transaction file 70 is "0", the processor 311 executes the processes of ACT 45 to ACT 49 in the same manner as described above.

[0126] The processor 311 repeatedly executes the processes of ACT 45 to ACT 49 until it detects a transaction file 70 whose processing status ST is "1". When it is confirmed in ACT 44 that the processing status ST of the transaction file 70 is "1", all transaction files 70 previously saved in the saving area 71 have been processed. The processor 311 proceeds from ACT 44 to ACT 50. In ACT 50, the processor 311 checks whether the counter N is "1" or greater.

[0127] If counter N is equal to or greater than "1," the extracted transaction file 70 exists. Processor 311 proceeds to ACT 51. Processor 311 controls to output the extracted transaction file 70 to the conversion server 40 in ACT 51. Through this control, the extracted transaction file 70 is transmitted in the order of communication interface 315, headquarters network 26, second communication server 24, and third communication network NWc, and then sent to the conversion server 40. After outputting the transaction file 70 to the conversion server 40, processor 311 terminates the information processing of the procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. 11. Note that if counter N is "0" in ACT 50, the transaction file 70 has not been extracted, so processor 311 skips the processing of ACT 51 and terminates the information processing.

[0128] Next, the main information processing of the conversion server 40 that receives the transaction file 70 extracted by the store server 31 will be described with reference to FIG. 12 . As shown in FIG. 12 , the processor 401 of the conversion server 40 waits for acquisition of the transaction file 70 by functioning as the file acquisition unit 92 in ACT 61. When the transaction file 70 extracted by the store server 31 is received via the second communication interface 405, the processor 401 proceeds to ACT 62. In ACT 62, the processor 401 acquires a store member ID from the transaction file 70 by functioning as the inquiry unit 93. Then, in ACT 93, the processor 401 controls the output of an inquiry command for the electronic receipt ID to the receipt server 11. By this control, the inquiry command for the electronic receipt ID is transmitted from the second communication interface 405 to the receipt server 11 via the first communication network NWa. The inquiry command for the electronic receipt ID includes the store member ID acquired in ACT 62. It also includes a store code that identifies the store. The store code is stored in the conversion server 40.

[0129] The processor 111 of the receipt server 11 that has received the inquiry command for the electronic receipt ID acquires the store code and the store member ID from the inquiry command. The processor 111 then searches the association table 52 for the store identified by the store code to confirm whether the electronic receipt ID is associated with the store member ID. If the electronic receipt ID is associated, the processor 111 returns a response command including the electronic receipt ID to the conversion server 40 that has sent the inquiry command. On the other hand, if the electronic receipt ID is not associated, the processor 111 returns a response command that does not include the electronic receipt ID to the conversion server 40 that has sent the inquiry command.

[0130] The processor 401 of the conversion server 40 that has sent the electronic receipt ID inquiry command proceeds to ACT 64. The processor 401 waits for a response command in ACT 64. When the response command is received via the second communication interface 405, the processor 401 proceeds to ACT 65. In ACT 65, the processor 401 checks whether the electronic receipt ID is included in the response command.

[0131] If the response command does not include an electronic receipt ID, there is no electronic receipt ID associated with the store member ID detected from the transaction file 70. The processor 401 ends the information processing of the procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG.

[0132] On the other hand, if the response command includes an electronic receipt ID, the electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID detected from the transaction file 70. The processor 401 proceeds to ACT 66. In ACT 66, the processor 401 executes electronic receipt creation processing. That is, the processor 401, functioning as the second generation unit 94, generates receipt data from the transaction data in the transaction file 70 in accordance with the receipt digitization program 91. Then, the processor 401, functioning as the second output unit 95, transmits the receipt data to the receipt server 11. With this, the processor 401 ends the information processing of the procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. 12 .

[0133] (Explanation of Operation of Electronic Receipt System) Figure 13 is a sequence diagram when the POS terminal 32 acquires an electronic receipt ID from the member server 22. When the POS terminal 32 acquires the store member ID of the transaction target (ACT 5), it inquires of the member server 22 whether an electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID (ACT 6). In response to this inquiry, the POS terminal 32 sends an inquiry command including the store member ID to the member server 22.

[0134] The member server 22 searches the association table 521 for the store member ID included in the inquiry command. If the search result shows that the electronic receipt ID is associated with the store member ID, the member server 22 sends a response command including the electronic receipt ID to the POS terminal 32.

[0135] Upon receiving the response command including the electronic receipt ID, the POS terminal 32 completes the registration process (ACT 21) and the settlement process (ACT 26), and then executes the electronic receipt creation process based on the receipt print data in accordance with the agent program 81 (ACT 30). As a result, receipt data is sent from the POS terminal 32 to the receipt server 11. The receipt data is saved in the receipt file 51 of the receipt server 11. A transaction file 70 is also sent from the POS terminal 32 to the store server 31. The transaction file 70 contains transaction data including the store member ID and the electronic receipt ID. The transaction file 70 is saved in the storage area 71 of the store server 31.

[0136] 14 is a sequence diagram when the POS terminal 32 is unable to acquire an electronic receipt ID from the member server 22. When the POS terminal 32 acquires the store member ID of the transaction target (ACT 5), it inquires of the member server 22 whether an electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID (ACT 6). In response to this inquiry, the POS terminal 32 sends an inquiry command including the store member ID to the member server 22.

[0137] At this time, if the member server 22 is down and offline, for example, the member server 22 will not respond to an inquiry from the POS terminal 32. Therefore, the POS terminal 32 will not be able to acquire the electronic receipt ID. If the POS terminal 32 is unable to acquire the electronic receipt ID, it will not execute the electronic receipt creation process after completing the registration process (ACT 21) and the settlement process (ACT 26). The POS terminal 32 sends a transaction file 70 to the store server 31. The transaction file 70 contains transaction data that includes the store member ID but does not include the electronic receipt ID. The transaction file 70 is stored in the storage area 71 of the store server 31.

[0138] Every time a certain period of time elapses (YES in ACT 41), the store server 31 extracts a transaction file 70 that includes a store member ID but does not include an electronic receipt ID from the transaction files 70 stored in the storage area 71 (ACT 47). The store server 31 then outputs the extracted transaction file 70 to the conversion server 40 (ACT 51). As a result of this operation, the store server 31 transmits the transaction file 70 that includes a store member ID but does not include an electronic receipt ID to the conversion server 40.

[0139] When the conversion server 40 receives the transaction file 70, it inquires of the receipt server 11 whether an electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID included in the transaction file 70 (ACT 63). In response to this inquiry, the conversion server 40 sends an inquiry command including the store member ID to the receipt server 11.

[0140] The receipt server 11 searches the association table 52 for the store member ID included in the inquiry command. If the store member ID is found to be associated with an electronic receipt ID, the receipt server 11 sends a response command including the electronic receipt ID to the conversion server 40.

[0141] Upon receiving the response command, the conversion server 40 executes the electronic receipt conversion process based on the transaction data described in the transaction file 70 in accordance with the receipt digitization program 91 (ACT 66). As a result, receipt data is sent from the conversion server 40 to the receipt server 11. The receipt data is saved in the receipt file 51 of the receipt server 11.

[0142] Thus, by acquiring the electronic receipt ID linked to the store member ID at the POS terminal 32, not only the receipt data generated at the POS terminal 32 but also the receipt data of the transaction generated at the conversion server 40, which was not able to acquire the electronic receipt ID linked to the store member ID at the POS terminal 32 but was able to acquire the electronic receipt ID linked to the store member ID at the conversion server 40, are saved in the receipt file 51.

[0143] Fig. 15 is an example of a receipt image REa displayed on the display device of the information terminal 200 using receipt data generated by the POS terminal 32. Fig. 16 is an example of a receipt image REb displayed on the display device of the information terminal 200 using receipt data generated by the conversion server 40.

[0144] As shown in Figure 15, the receipt image REa displays header data ITa, such as the store name and logo, commercial message ITb, transaction date and time ITc, register number ITd, responsible person information ITe, purchase data ITf, total amount ITg, tax amount ITh, payment data ITi, store member ID (ITj), transaction ID (ITk), etc.

[0145] 16, the receipt image REb displays header data ITa, such as the store name and logo, transaction date and time ITc, register number ITd, responsible person information ITe, purchase data ITf, total amount ITg, tax amount ITh, payment data ITi, store member ID (ITj), transaction ID (ITk), etc. The commercial message ITb is not displayed because it is not included in the transaction data. However, even if the commercial message ITb is not displayed, the transaction details ITc, register number ITd, responsible person information ITe, purchase data ITf, total amount ITg, tax amount ITh, payment data ITi, etc., which are information necessary for a receipt, are still displayed, so there is no problem with the electronic receipt system 100.

[0146] As described above in detail, according to this embodiment, even if the electronic receipt ID linked to the store member ID cannot be obtained because the member server 22 is offline, for example, it is possible to provide an electronic receipt system 100 that can digitize the receipt later.

[0147] Furthermore, the linkage table 521 held by the member server 22 is distributed from the receipt server 11, for example, once a day. Therefore, information about a transaction target whose store member ID and electronic receipt ID are linked on the day of the transaction is not added to the linkage table 521. Therefore, the POS terminal 32 cannot acquire the electronic receipt ID linked with the store member ID. However, information about a transaction target whose store member ID and electronic receipt ID are linked on the day of the transaction is added in real time to the linkage table 521 held by the receipt server 11. Therefore, according to this embodiment, there is an advantage in that receipts for transactions can be digitized even for transaction targets whose store member ID and electronic receipt ID are linked on the day of the transaction.

[0148] (Other Embodiments) In the above embodiment, the receipt digitization program 91 is installed in the conversion server 40, and the functions of the file acquisition unit 92, inquiry unit 93, second generation unit 94, and second output unit 95 are executed by the processor 401 of the conversion server 40. In another embodiment, for example, the receipt digitization program 91 is installed in the headquarters server 21. Furthermore, the functions of the file acquisition unit 92, inquiry unit 93, second generation unit 94, and second output unit 95 are programmed to be executed by the processor of the headquarters server 21. In other words, the headquarters server 21 is given the functions of the conversion server 40. Needless to say, even if such a configuration is adopted, the same effects as those of the above embodiment are achieved. Incidentally, in such an embodiment, the headquarters server 21 is a server device included in the electronic receipt system 100.

[0149] It is also possible to have the function of the conversion server 40 in the store server 31. In that case, the store server 31 becomes a server device included in the electronic receipt system 100. That is, the server device is a device including: a storage unit that stores transaction files describing target person identification information that identifies the target person of a transaction settled by a payment device and data related to the transaction details; an extraction unit that extracts the transaction files of transactions for which the receipt data has not been generated from the transaction files stored by the storage unit; a file acquisition unit that acquires the transaction files extracted by the extraction unit; a generation unit that, when it is determined from information held by a second server different from the first server that the target person identified by the target person identification information described in the transaction file acquired by the file acquisition unit is a user of the electronic receipt service, generates the receipt data based on the data related to the transaction details described in the transaction file; and an output unit that outputs the receipt data generated by the generation unit to a receipt server.

[0150] In the above embodiment, the store server 31 has the functions of the storage unit 72 and the extraction unit 73, but in another embodiment, the headquarters server 21 or the conversion server 40 may have the functions of the storage unit 72 and the extraction unit 73. For example, by having the functions of the storage unit 72 and the extraction unit 73 in the conversion server 40, the conversion server 40 can configure a server device that includes the storage unit 72 and the extraction unit 73 in addition to the file acquisition unit 92, the second generation unit 94, and the second output unit 95.

[0151] In the above embodiment, in ACT 43 of Figure 11, the processor 311 of the store server 31 detected the transaction files 70 by going back in time from the transaction file 70 most recently stored in the storage area 71. In this regard, the processor 311 of the store server 31 may also detect the transaction files 70 by going back in time from the transaction file 70 oldest stored in the storage area 71. In any case, the processor 311 of the store server 31 may be programmed to detect unprocessed transaction files 70, i.e., transaction files 70 whose processing status ST is "0", from the storage area 71, execute the processing of ACT 45 to ACT 49, and once the detection is complete, execute the processing of ACT 50 and ACT 51.

[0152] In the above embodiment, the first server is the member server 22. The first server is not limited to the member server 22. The key is that it is sufficient if it is a server that stores the linkage table 52 periodically distributed from the receipt server 11 and that is capable of outputting information indicating that the person who made a transaction at a payment device, for example, the POS terminal 32, is an electronic receipt member, in other words, an electronic receipt ID, to the payment device. The second server is also not limited to the receipt server 11. The key is that it is sufficient if it is a server that has the linkage table 52 that can instantly add data associating an electronic receipt ID with a store member ID when the electronic receipt ID and the store member ID are linked.

[0153] In the above embodiment, the electronic receipt system 100 for a chain store is exemplified, but the store may also be an independent store. In the case of an independent store, the headquarters system 20 does not exist, so the store system 30 has the functions of the member server 22, the first communication server 23, and the second communication server 24, thereby achieving the same effects as in the above embodiment.

[0154] The program according to this embodiment may be transferred in a state where it is stored in an electronic device, or may be transferred in a state where it is not stored in an electronic device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or may be transferred in a state where it is recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium is a non-transitory tangible medium. The recording medium is a computer-readable medium. The recording medium may be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or a memory card, as long as it is capable of storing the program and is computer-readable.

[0155] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope of the invention and the scope of the inventions and their equivalents as defined in the claims.

Claims

1. An electronic receipt system comprising: a first generation unit that generates receipt data by digitizing a receipt showing details of a transaction, when it is possible to obtain, from information held by a first server, that a subject of a transaction settled on a payment device is a user of an electronic receipt service that receives a receipt showing details of the transaction in electronic data at the time the transaction is settled; a storage unit that stores a transaction file describing subject identification information that identifies the subject of the transaction settled on the payment device and data related to the transaction details; an extraction unit that extracts, from the transaction files stored by the storage unit, the transaction file of a transaction for which the receipt data has not been generated; a second generation unit that generates the receipt data based on the data related to the details of the transaction described in the transaction file, when it is possible to obtain, from information held by a second server different from the first server, that a subject identified by the subject identification information described in the transaction file extracted by the extraction unit is a user of the electronic receipt service; and an output unit that outputs the receipt data generated by the first generation unit or the second generation unit to a receipt server that manages the receipt data.

2. The electronic receipt system according to claim 1, wherein the second server comprises: a memory unit that, when a user of a store membership service who can obtain benefits at the time of settlement of a transaction by becoming a member is a user of the electronic receipt service, associates and stores first user identification information that identifies a user of the store membership service with second user identification information that identifies the user of the electronic receipt service; and a providing unit that periodically provides the information stored in the memory unit to the first server, wherein the information held by the first server is information provided from the second server by the providing unit, and the information held by the second server is information stored in the memory unit.

3. The electronic receipt system according to claim 2, wherein the second server is the receipt server.

4. The electronic receipt system according to claim 1, further comprising: a printing unit which prints a receipt showing details of a transaction when it is not possible to determine at the time the transaction is settled that the person concerned in the transaction settled by said settlement device is a user of said electronic receipt service.

5. A server device included in an electronic receipt system comprising: a first generation unit that generates receipt data by digitizing a receipt showing details of a transaction when it is possible to obtain, from information held by a first server, that the subject of a transaction settled on a payment device is a user of an electronic receipt service that receives a receipt showing details of the transaction in electronic data at the time the transaction is settled, a storage unit that stores a transaction file describing subject identification information that identifies the subject of the transaction settled on the payment device and data related to the transaction details, and an extraction unit that extracts the transaction file of a transaction for which receipt data has not been generated from the transaction files stored by the storage unit, and the server device comprises: a file acquisition unit that acquires the transaction file extracted by the extraction unit; and, when it is possible to obtain, from information held by a second server different from the first server, that the subject identified by the subject identification information described in the transaction file acquired by the file acquisition unit is a user of the electronic receipt service, a generation unit that generates the receipt data based on the data related to the details of the transaction described in the transaction file; and an output unit that outputs the receipt data generated by the generation unit to a receipt server.

6. A server device included in an electronic receipt system including a first generation unit that generates receipt data by digitizing a receipt showing details of a transaction when it is possible to obtain, based on information held by a first server, that a person who is the subject of a transaction settled on a settlement device is a user of an electronic receipt service that receives a receipt showing details of the transaction in electronic data at the time the transaction is settled, a storage unit that stores a transaction file describing subject identification information that identifies the person who is the subject of the transaction settled on the settlement device and data related to the transaction details, and an extraction unit that extracts the transaction file of a transaction for which receipt data has not been generated from the transaction files stored by the storage unit, the computer having a file acquisition function that acquires the transaction file extracted by the extraction unit, a generation function that generates the receipt data based on the data related to the details of the transaction described in the transaction file when it is possible to obtain, based on information held by a second server different from the first server, that a person identified by the subject identification information described in the transaction file acquired by the file acquisition unit is a user of the electronic receipt service, and an output function that outputs the receipt data generated by the generation unit to a receipt server. A program recording medium on which a program for realizing the above is recorded.

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