Payment terminal, payment support method, and payment program

Abstract

In this payment terminal, under the control of a processor, a touch panel displays a screen for inputting the number of customers and the total payment amount, displays a first screen, and displays a second screen. The first screen displays each split bill amount on a corresponding button, transitions to the second screen according to the selection of the button, and, upon transitioning from the second screen to the first screen, displays that the payment is completed for the split bill amount corresponding to the selected button. The second screen displays a payment method for the split bill amount of the selected button in a selectable manner, and transitions to the first screen when the payment by the selected payment method is completed.

Description

Payment terminal, payment support method, and payment program

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a payment terminal, a payment support method, and a payment program.

[0002] When dining or drinking in a group of multiple people at a restaurant or the like, the settlement of the food and beverage bill may be paid in the form of a share among each person in the group. Various techniques have been proposed to facilitate the settlement by share.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a share settlement result output method provided with means for calculating the price per person for the amount charged to a group of multiple people in a POS (Point Of Sales) terminal and displaying it on the customer display.

[0004] Patent Document 2 discloses a transaction data processing device that, when dividing the payment of the total amount of goods traded in a single transaction with a group of multiple customers by share, performs the settlement of the share price for each payer according to the payment method specified by the input unit for each payer when the payment method is specified by the input unit.

[0005] Patent Document 3 discloses a payment support device in which an acquisition means acquires the total amount of a transaction, a number input means inputs the number of people in the customer group, an amount input means inputs the amount to be deducted from the object of payment by the customer group from the total amount, a determination means determines the payment amount to be shared by each of the customers of the number input by the number input means in the amount obtained by subtracting the amount input by the amount input means from the total amount acquired by the acquisition means, and an output means outputs the payment amount determined by the determination means.

[0006] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-86137, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-99685, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-222601

[0007] Although the conventional technology can display the price per person and specify the payment method, the operation is complicated, and improvement in convenience for the share settlement function is desired.

[0008] The present disclosure provides a payment terminal, a payment support method, and a payment program that can reduce the complexity of operation and realize the share settlement function.

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a payment terminal capable of selecting multiple payment methods, comprising a processor and a touch panel, wherein the touch panel, under the control of the processor, displays a screen for inputting the number of customers and the total payment amount, displays a first screen which displays the same number of buttons as the number of customers in response to the input on the first screen, transitions from the first screen to display a second screen which is for selecting the payment method, the first screen displays each of the split amounts obtained by dividing the total payment amount by the number of customers on each of the buttons corresponding to each of the split amounts, transitions to the second screen in response to the selection of a button, transitions from the second screen to the first screen and displays that payment has been completed for the split amount corresponding to the selected button, the second screen displays the payment method as selectable for the split amount of the button selected on the first screen, and transitions to the first screen when payment by the selected payment method is completed.

[0010] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a payment support method for supporting a payment that allows the selection of multiple payment methods, comprising: displaying a screen for inputting the number of customers and the total payment amount; displaying a first screen which displays the same number of buttons as the number of customers in response to the input on the first screen; and transitioning from the first screen to display a second screen which is a screen for selecting the payment method, wherein the first screen displays each of the split amounts obtained by dividing the total payment amount by the number of customers on each of the buttons corresponding to each of the split amounts, transitions to the second screen in response to the selection of a button, and when transitioning from the second screen to the first screen, displays that the payment has been completed for the split amount corresponding to the selected button, and the second screen displays the payment method as selectable for the split amount of the button selected on the first screen, and transitions to the first screen when the payment using the selected payment method is completed.

[0011] One aspect of this disclosure is a program for causing a computer to execute the above-described payment support method.

[0012] According to this disclosure, it is possible to implement a bill-splitting function while reducing the complexity of the operation.

[0013] A front perspective view showing an example of the appearance of a payment terminal in the first embodiment of this disclosure. A schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of a payment terminal viewed from the side in perspective. A block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of a payment terminal in the first embodiment. A diagram showing the screen transitions of a payment terminal in the first embodiment (part 1). A diagram showing the screen transitions of a payment terminal in the first embodiment (part 2). A diagram showing the screen transitions of a payment terminal in the first embodiment (part 3). A diagram showing the screen transitions of a payment terminal in the first embodiment (part 4). A top view showing an example of the appearance of a payment terminal in the second embodiment. A side view showing an example of the appearance of a payment terminal. A front view showing an example of the appearance of a payment terminal. A block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of a payment terminal in the second embodiment. A diagram showing the screen transitions of a payment terminal in the second embodiment (part 1). A diagram showing the screen transitions of a payment terminal in the second embodiment (part 2). A diagram showing the screen transitions of a payment terminal in the second embodiment (part 3). A diagram showing the screen transitions of a payment terminal in the second embodiment (part 4). A schematic diagram showing an example of the appearance when the payment terminal is separated into two terminals: a terminal for customers and a terminal for store employees. A flowchart showing the processing procedure of a payment terminal.

[0014] The following describes in detail the embodiments of the payment terminal, payment support method, and payment program specifically disclosed herein, with reference to the drawings as appropriate. However, unnecessarily detailed explanations may be omitted. For example, detailed explanations of already well-known matters or redundant explanations of substantially identical configurations may be omitted. This is to avoid the following explanation becoming unnecessarily verbose and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art. The attached drawings and the following explanation are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand this disclosure and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0015] (First Embodiment) Figure 1 is a front perspective view showing an example of the appearance of a payment terminal 100A1. The payment terminal 100A1 has a main body 10. The main body 10 generally has a box-like shape. For example, a purchaser (customer) of goods operates the payment terminal 100A1 from the front side 1A. For example, a store employee who registers the purchase of goods operates the payment terminal 100A1 from the rear side 1D. The customer may be a customer of the store. The payment terminal 100A1 is a stationary terminal that is placed on a stand or the like in a store.

[0016] The payment terminal 100A1 includes a first touch panel 12, a first LED (light-emitting diode) 13, an NFC (Near Field Communication) antenna 15, a first card slot 16s, a second card slot 17s, a camera 25, and an external terminal 27. The payment terminal 100A1 is provided with a cable CA on its rear side 1D. The cable CA may include a power cable, a communication cable, a LAN (Local Area Network) cable, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable, etc.

[0017] The payment terminal 100A1 is a composite type that allows customers to specify multiple payment methods. The payment terminal 100A1 may be used, for example, by being placed on a mounting surface α (see Figure 2) on a store counter.

[0018] Multiple payment methods include, for example, credit card payments, electronic money payments, code (e.g., QR code®) payments, and cash payments. Credit card payments include, for example, magnetic card payments, contact IC card payments, and contactless IC card payments. There may be multiple types of electronic money. Electronic money payments and contactless IC card payments are made using contactless communication (e.g., near-field communication: NFC), and are therefore collectively referred to as contactless payments.

[0019] Multiple payment methods are performed using each of the corresponding multiple payment interfaces. These multiple payment interfaces include, for example, credit cards, electronic money cards C32, codes, and cash. Credit cards include, for example, magnetic cards C1, contact IC cards C2, and contactless IC credit cards C31.

[0020] Magnetic card C1 is swiped into the first card slot 16s and used for payment. Contact IC card C2 is inserted into the second card slot 17s and used for payment. Contactless IC credit card C31 and electronic money card C32 are brought close to the NFC antenna 15 and used for payment. Contactless IC credit card C31 and electronic money card C32 are collectively referred to as "contactless IC card C3".

[0021] The camera 25 includes a camera module md and a lens ls (see Figure 2). When viewed from the outside of the payment terminal 100A1, the lens ls of the camera 25, the second card slot 17s, and the first touch panel 12 are arranged in the height direction from the mounting surface α, starting from the nearest mounting surface α. When viewed from the inside of the payment terminal 100A1, the camera module md of the camera 25, the second card reader 17, the NFC antenna 15, and the first touch panel 12 are arranged in the height direction from the mounting surface α, starting from the nearest mounting surface α. The NFC antenna 15 and the first touch panel 12 may be at the same height from the mounting surface α, that is, the NFC antenna 15 may be arranged around the first touch panel 12 on the same surface. The surface on which the first touch panel 12 is arranged is also called the panel arrangement surface 10a. The panel placement surface 10a may be the upper surface of the main body 10.

[0022] The first card slot 16s is positioned along the side, either on the right or left side when viewed from the front 1A side, for example, on the right side in Figure 1. In this case, the customer can easily select one of the multiple payment methods that correspond to the multiple devices lined up in front of them.

[0023] The payment terminal 100A1 has a greater height on the rear side 1D than on the front side 1A. In other words, the panel mounting surface 10a of the main body 10 of the payment terminal 100A1 gradually slopes downward toward the customer. That is, when a customer is facing the second card slot 17s directly, the orientation of the panel mounting surface 10a of the payment terminal 100A1 is diagonally upward toward the customer. Although the example given illustrates that the panel mounting surface 10a is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane, it is not limited to this. The panel mounting surface 10a may also be aligned with the horizontal plane.

[0024] A first LED 13 is positioned on the panel surface 10a of the main body 10 of the payment terminal 100A1. However, the position of the first LED 13 is not limited to this, and any position visible to the customer is acceptable.

[0025] The payment terminal 100A1 has an opening 30 on its front surface 1A where the housing of the main body 10 is absent. The opening 30 is widest on the front surface 1A side and narrows towards the rear surface 1D side. In other words, the opening 30 expands in diameter from the rear surface 1D side towards the front surface 1A side. The second card slot 17s and the lens ls of the camera 25 are located in the opening 30. For example, the second card slot 17s is located in the part of the opening 30 that is closest to the rear surface 1D.

[0026] A lower surface 30b is positioned at the lower edge of the periphery of the opening 30. The lower surface 30b may be a tapered surface that gradually approaches the mounting surface α from the rear surface 1D side towards the front surface 1A side. The lower surface 30b is formed, for example, in a substantially planar shape. The lower surface 30b is connected to the surface 10b at the lower periphery of the opening 30 on the front surface 1A side of the main body 10 of the payment terminal 100A1. A part of the connection between the surface 10b of the main body 10 and the lower surface 30b of the opening 30 is recessed, forming a recess H1. The recess H1 is part of the opening 30. The shape of the contour of the recess H1 is, for example, a semicircular arc or a semielliptical arc. The lens ls of the camera 25 is exposed and positioned in the recess H1. The front side of the lens ls is not covered by the housing of the main body 10. Therefore, the camera 25 can introduce light from outside the payment terminal 100A1 through the recess H1. Furthermore, by positioning the lens ls in the recess H1, it becomes difficult for the customer's fingers or dust to reach the lens ls during payment, thus protecting the lens ls from damage and dirt accumulation.

[0027] Although the first touch panel 12 is shown as an input means for store staff and customers, the payment terminal 100A1 may also be equipped with other input means (for example, physical keys or buttons).

[0028] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of a payment terminal 100A1 as seen from the side. Note that the first touch panel 12, NFC antenna 15, etc., are omitted from the illustration in Figure 2.

[0029] In the payment terminal 100A1, the camera 25 may be positioned on the front 1A side (left side in Figure 2) of the second card slot 17s. In other words, when a customer is facing the second card slot 17s directly, the lens ls of the camera 25 may be positioned closer to the customer than the second card slot 17s. In this case, since the lens ls of the camera 25 is located relatively on the front 1A side at the opening 30, the payment terminal 100A1 can easily introduce light from a subject located outside the payment terminal 100A1 (for example, a mobile device displaying a code). Therefore, the payment terminal 100A1 can capture images of the code CD displayed on the display surface of the mobile device in high quality, and improve the accuracy of code recognition.

[0030] Furthermore, in the payment terminal 100A1, the camera 25 is positioned closer to the mounting surface α than the second card slot 17s. For example, the distance between the mounting surface α and the position of the second card slot 17s, that is, the distance between the mounting surface α and the contact IC card C2 to be inserted into the second card slot 17s, should be long enough to allow the customer's finger to reach between the contact IC card C2 and the mounting surface α when inserting the card.

[0031] As a result, even with the camera 25 positioned in this embodiment, customers can insert their contact IC card C2 into the second card slot 17s and make payments using the contact IC card C2. Furthermore, the area closer to the mounting surface α than the second card slot 17s tends to become dead space inside the payment terminal 100A1. By positioning the camera 25 in such a location, the dead space inside the payment terminal 100A1 can be effectively utilized, improving the efficiency of the camera 25's placement. This leads to a miniaturization of the payment terminal 100A1 equipped with the camera 25.

[0032] Furthermore, the direction normal to the lens ls of the camera 25, that is, the direction of the optical axis OC of the lens ls (optical axis direction), forms a predetermined angle θ (for example, about 50 degrees) with respect to the mounting surface α. In other words, the optical axis direction of the camera 25 is diagonally upward toward the customer.

[0033] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of the payment terminal 100A1 in the first embodiment.

[0034] The payment terminal 100A1 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, a first touch panel 12, a first LED 13, an NFC IC 14, an NFC antenna 15, a first card reader 16, a second card reader 17, memory 18, a speaker 24, and a camera 25.

[0035] The CPU 11 implements various functions by executing programs stored in the memory 18. The CPU 11 controls all parts of the payment terminal 100A1. For example, the CPU 11 performs processing related to credit card payments, electronic money payments, code payments, and cash payments. The CPU 11 functions as a payment CPU that performs processing related to payments. Note that the CPU 11 is just one example of a processor, and other processors may be used.

[0036] The first touch panel 12 is an example of a touch panel having an input detection function that electrically detects contact or proximity of a customer's finger or other object (an example of an object) as input (input operation). The first touch panel 12 accepts various input operations by the customer, for example. The first touch panel 12 accepts PIN entry operations and electronic signature operations in credit card payments, for example. The first touch panel 12 also accepts input operations for selection and decision-making regarding split bill payments.

[0037] Furthermore, the first touch panel 12 displays various types of information. For example, the first touch panel 12 displays information and screens related to splitting the bill. In this way, the first touch panel 12 realizes both the functions of an input device that accepts various input operations and a display device that displays various types of information in a single device. Note that instead of the first touch panel 12, the input device and the display device may be configured as separate devices.

[0038] The first LED 13 displays various information. The first LED 13 may display in various ways. The display methods may include, for example, display color (e.g., red, green, blue), display timing (e.g., display during payment processing, upon completion of payment, upon completion of payment for each customer's share, or upon completion of all payments), and display pattern (e.g., on, blinking, off).

[0039] The NFC IC 14 performs processing on the NFC antenna 15. For example, the NFC IC 14 controls power supply to the NFC antenna 15 and data communication via the NFC antenna 15.

[0040] The NFC antenna 15 is formed, for example, by a loop coil. The NFC antenna 15 receives power from the NFC IC 14 and generates radio waves. The area within a predetermined distance from the NFC antenna 15 is an area where contactless communication with the NFC antenna 15 is possible (contactless communication area). When a contactless IC card C3 (an example of a contactless communication medium) is placed within the contactless communication area, radio waves from the NFC antenna 15 reach the contactless IC card C3, and the NFC antenna 15 provides startup power to the contactless IC card C3. As a result, the NFC antenna 15 communicates data with the contactless IC card C3.

[0041] Furthermore, the center position of the surface defined by the NFC antenna 15 and the center position of the surface defined by the first touch panel 12 may be approximately the same. This allows data to be communicated between the NFC antenna 15 and the contactless IC card C3 by holding the contactless IC card C3 over the first touch panel 12, making the operation easier for the user to understand.

[0042] The NFC_IC 14 acquires (reads) information held by the contactless IC credit card C31 via the NFC antenna 15. The NFC_IC 14 sends this information to the CPU 11 as contactless read information. The information held by the contactless IC credit card C31 and the contactless read information include, for example, the credit card's identification number. The NFC_IC 14 also acquires (reads) information held by the electronic money card C32 via the NFC antenna 15. The NFC_IC 14 sends this information to the CPU 11 as electronic money read information. The information held by the electronic money card C32 and the electronic money read information include, for example, the identification number of the electronic money card C32.

[0043] The first card reader 16 is a magnetic card reader. The first card reader 16 reads the information held by the magnetic card C1 and sends the read information to the CPU 11 as magnetic reading information. The information held by the magnetic card C1 and the magnetic reading information include, for example, the identification number of the credit card.

[0044] The second card reader 17 is a contact IC card reader. The second card reader 17 reads the information held by the contact IC card C2 and sends the read information to the CPU 11 as contact read information. The information held by the contact IC card C2 and the contact read information include, for example, the identification number of a credit card.

[0045] The memory 18 may be configured to include, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory). The memory 18 has various data, information, and programs.

[0046] The speaker 24 outputs various sounds. The speaker 24 outputs, for example, sounds related to the processing in the payment terminal 100A1, announcements, and guide voices.

[0047] The camera 25 images a subject and obtains an image. The camera 25 sends the captured image to the CPU 11.

[0048] The external terminal 27 can connect various cables (for example, LAN (Local Area Network) cables, USB (Universal Serial Bus) cables). Therefore, various external devices (for example, POS, cash drawer) can be connected via the external terminal 27 through various cables and communication is possible. Thus, the external terminal 27 functions as a communication unit. Note that the communication unit may perform wireless communication (for example, wireless LAN communication, Bluetooth (registered trademark) communication) without going through the external terminal 27.

[0049] If CPU 11 acquires magnetic reading information, it performs payment processing using the magnetic reading information. If CPU 11 acquires contact reading information, it performs payment processing using the contact reading information. If CPU 11 acquires contactless reading information, it performs payment processing using the contactless reading information. If CPU 11 acquires electronic money reading information, it performs payment processing using the electronic money reading information. If CPU 11 acquires an image, it determines whether or not the image contains a code. If CPU 11 determines that the image contains a code, it acquires (reads) the identification information indicated by the code as code reading information. CPU 11 performs payment processing using the code reading information. In payment processing, CPU 11 may cooperate with an external server for payment processing via the communication unit.

[0050] Next, we will explain an example of the operation of the payment terminal 100A1.

[0051] Figures 4A to 4D show the screen transitions of the payment terminal 100A1. This operation is intended to simulate the process of settling the bill for a meal in a restaurant or similar establishment, where each person in the group pays their share.

[0052] The CPU 11 reads and executes a program stored in memory 18, for example, and controls the first touch panel 12 to display screens as shown in the diagram and perform various processes (e.g., input, selection, confirmation). In other words, the first touch panel 12 performs various screen displays, information input, selection, and confirmation under the control of the CPU 11. Furthermore, each screen displays various information and transitions to other screens under the control of the CPU 11. To put it another way, the touch panel making selections and decisions under the control of the CPU is the same as the CPU making selections and decisions via the touch panel.

[0053] The first touch panel 12, upon receiving input from the customer (according to the input), displays the menu selection screen 51 (1) and, upon receiving input from the customer, selects the "Sales / Split Payment" menu from the menu list. In response to this selection, the first touch panel 12 displays the number of people and amount input screen 52 (2) where the number of customers and the total payment amount are entered.

[0054] The first touch panel 12 receives input from the customer and, when the number of customers (3 in this example) and the total payment amount (¥3,001 in this example) are entered into the number of people and amount input screen 52, it displays the first screen 53 of (3) according to this input. The first screen 53 displays the same number of buttons 53a1 to 53a3 as the number of customers (3 in this example).

[0055] The CPU 11 calculates the amount to be split by dividing the total payment amount by the number of customers. The first screen 53 displays each of the calculated split amounts on the buttons 53a1, 53a2, and 53a3 corresponding to each split amount.

[0056] In this example, when the total payment amount of ¥3,001 is divided among 3 customers, there is a fractional amount of ¥1. In such a case, the CPU 11 calculates a first amount of ¥1,000, which is the fractional amount to be split by 3 customers, by subtracting the fractional amount of ¥1 from the total payment amount of ¥3,001. The first screen 53 displays this calculated first amount of ¥1,000 as the fractional amount to be split by 3 customers, on buttons 53a2 and 53a3, respectively, excluding button 53a1. Furthermore, the CPU 11 calculates a second amount of ¥1,001, which is the fractional amount to be split by adding the fractional amount of ¥1 to the first fractional amount of ¥1,000. The first screen 53 displays this second amount of ¥1,001 as the fractional amount to button 53a1.

[0057] The first touch panel 12 receives input from the customer, such as a press, and selects one of the buttons 53a1, 53a2, or 53a3 corresponding to the customer's payment amount. In this example, the first touch panel 12 receives input from the first customer and selects button 53a1 corresponding to the second amount of ¥1,001. In accordance with this selection, the first screen 53 transitions to the second screen 54 of (4).

[0058] The second screen 54 is a screen where each customer selects a payment method. The second screen 54 displays the payment method as selectable for the split amount (in this example, the second amount of ¥1,001) of the button selected on the first screen 53 (button 53a1 in this example). The payment method includes the number of payments (lump sum payment, installment payments other than lump sum payment, etc.) and the means of payment (credit card, electronic money, QR code, points, etc.). In this example, when the first touch panel 12 receives input from the customer and selects a lump sum payment by credit card as the payment method, the second screen 54 transitions to the payment guidance screen 55 of (5), and presents the customer with the payment procedure. The payment procedure information here is, as an example, information that displays to the customer how to use the card with the payment terminal 100A1 according to each payment method.

[0059] Furthermore, "displaying in a selectable state" includes, for example, displaying predetermined information (e.g., payment method) in a selectable state based on input operations from a customer via the first touch panel 12 by the CPU 11. In other words, when predetermined information is displayed in a selectable state, the CPU 11 makes the predetermined information selectable on the screen. When the displayed predetermined information is selected, the CPU 11 performs processing based on the selected information.

[0060] When payment is completed using the payment method selected in response to the customer's input, the first touch panel 12 transitions from the payment guidance screen 55 to the payment completion screen 56 of (6), and then to the first screen 53 of (7) (returning to the first screen 53). The payment guidance screen 55 and the payment completion screen 56 may be part of the second screen 54.

[0061] In other words, when the first touch panel 12 transitions from the second screen 54 to the first screen 53, it may display a message indicating that payment has been completed for the split payment amount corresponding to the selected button, for example, by displaying a payment completion screen 56. In this example, the payment completion screen 56 is displayed before the transition from the second screen 54 to the first screen 53, but the timing of the display of the payment completion screen 56 is not strictly limited; it is sufficient that the user understands that payment has been completed when the transition from the second screen 54 to the first screen 53 occurs.

[0062] When the user transitions from the second screen 54 to the first screen 53, the CPU 11 determines that the payment has been completed based on the total amount of the split bill that has been settled (in this example, the second amount of ¥1,001). Then, the first touch panel 12 displays buttons other than the button indicating that the payment has been completed (button 53a1 in this example) (buttons 53a2 and 53a3 in this example) as selectable, in accordance with the CPU 11's determination. In this example, button 53a1 is highlighted in gray and the words "Paid" are added, making it unselectable. The words "Paid" are an example of an indication that the payment has been completed.

[0063] Next, the first touch panel 12 receives input from the second customer and selects button 53a2 on the first screen 53 of (7) corresponding to the first amount of ¥1,000. After that, the first touch panel 12 accepts operations in the same manner as in (4) to (6) and displays the same information. After this display is made (details omitted), the first touch panel 12 receives input from the third customer and selects another button 53a3 on the first screen 53 of (8) corresponding to the first amount of ¥1,000.

[0064] When all split payment amounts corresponding to all buttons 53a1, 53a2, and 53a3 have been settled, the first screen 53 of (9) will display a message indicating that payment for the total amount has been completed when transitioning from the second screen 54 to the first screen 53. In this example, the first screen 53 will highlight all buttons 53a1 to 53a3 in gray and display "Payment balance ¥0" to indicate that payment for the total amount has been completed. The highlighting of all buttons 53a1 to 53a3 in gray is an example of how information indicating that payment for the total amount has been completed can be displayed. The display of "Payment balance ¥0" is also an example of how information indicating that payment for the total amount has been completed can be displayed.

[0065] According to the payment terminal 100A1 of this embodiment, the first touch panel 12, under the control of the CPU 11, displays the amount each customer will split on buttons 53a1, 53a2, and 53a3, and the payment method can be selected and payment completed by operating buttons 53a1, 53a2, and 53a3. Therefore, the payment terminal 100A1 can realize a split-the-bill function with reduced operational complexity.

[0066] Furthermore, as shown in screen (7), when the system transitions from the second screen 54 to the first screen 53, the CPU 11 may decide and display that payment has been completed, depending on the amount of the split bill that has been settled. The first touch panel 12 may display buttons 53a2 and 53a3, other than button 53a1 which indicates that payment has been completed, as selectable in response to the CPU 11's decision, that is, in response to the completion of payment. This allows the payment terminal 100A1 to display only buttons other than those selected by customers whose payments have already been completed, making it easy to understand the payment status and reducing the complexity of operation. When payment is completed, the speaker 24 may, under the control of the CPU 11, make an announcement such as "Payment of 1001 yen has been completed" via voice output. This announcement is an example of indicating that payment has been completed (e.g., voice output).

[0067] Furthermore, as shown in (9), when transitioning from the second screen 54 to the first screen 53, the first screen 53 may display a message indicating that payment for the total amount has been completed when all split payment amounts corresponding to all buttons 53a1, 53a2, and 53a3 have been settled. This allows the customer to easily understand that payment for the total amount has been completed by looking at the display on the first screen 53.

[0068] Furthermore, regarding the completion of payment of the total payment amount, the second screen 54 may display a message indicating that payment for the total payment amount has been completed when all split payment amounts corresponding to all buttons 53a1, 53a2, and 53a3 have been settled. Specifically, as in the second screen 54 of (10), when all split payment amounts corresponding to all buttons 53a1 to 53a3 have been settled, the second screen 54 may display a message indicating that all split payment amounts have been settled. This allows customers to easily understand that payment for the total payment amount has been completed by looking at the display on the second screen 54.

[0069] Furthermore, the first screen 53 may display multiple buttons corresponding to multiple (two or three) split bill amounts from among the buttons 53a1, 53a2, and 53a3, each corresponding to a split bill amount, so that they can be selected simultaneously. In other words, the CPU 11 may control the first touch panel 12 to enable the simultaneous selection of multiple buttons corresponding to multiple split bill amounts, that is, to activate these multiple buttons and display them in a way that makes it clear that multiple buttons can be selected simultaneously. Displaying them in a way that makes it clear that multiple buttons can be selected simultaneously may include, for example, displaying selectable buttons in color and inverting non-selectable buttons in gray. When the first touch panel 12 receives input from the customer and multiple buttons are selected, the second screen 54 may display the total amount of the split bill amounts corresponding to the multiple selected buttons so that the payment method can be selected. Displaying the payment method can include, for example, a display in the form of selecting the payment method by tabs, as shown in the second screen 54 of (4). The CPU 11 may then enable a lump-sum payment for the total amount of the split bill amounts corresponding to the multiple selected buttons. This will allow one customer to make payments for multiple people at once, improving the convenience of the split-the-bill function.

[0070] Furthermore, as in this example, suppose that dividing the total payment amount by the number of customers results in a fractional amount. In this case, as shown in (3), the first screen 53 may display the first amount, obtained by subtracting the fractional amount from the total payment amount and dividing that amount by the number of customers, as the fractional-free split amount on buttons 53a2 and 53a3, respectively, in addition to button 53a1. Furthermore, the first screen 53 may display the second amount, obtained by adding the fractional amount to the first split amount, as the fractional-included split amount on button 53a1. In this way, the payment terminal 100A1 can realize a split payment function that reduces the complexity of operation, even when there is a fractional amount in the split payment amount.

[0071] In this embodiment, the payment terminal 100A1 is shown as a single terminal used by customers, but it is not limited to this. For example, the payment terminal 100A1 may be operable by a store employee. First, the payment terminal 100A1 may be turned towards the employee, and the first touch panel 12 may display the menu selection screen 51 (1) and the number of people and amount input screen 52 (2) to receive input from the employee. Subsequently, the payment terminal 100A1 may be turned towards the customer, and the first touch panel 12 may process the display and input of the first screen (3). This is because the customer is considered to best understand their desired method of splitting the bill. In this way, the payment terminal 100A1 allows the employee and the customer to work together to split the bill, improving convenience for both the employee and the customer.

[0072] (Second Embodiment) Figure 5A is a top view showing an example of the external appearance of the payment terminal 100 in the second embodiment. Figure 5B is a side view showing an example of the external appearance of the payment terminal 100. Figure 5C is a front view showing an example of the external appearance of the payment terminal 100.

[0073] The payment terminal 100 has a main body 10. The main body 10 generally has a box-like shape. Figures 5A, 5B, and 5C show the front 1A, side 1B, side 1C, and rear 1D of the payment terminal 100. For example, a purchaser (customer) of goods operates the payment terminal 100 from the front 1A side. For example, a store employee who registers the purchase of goods operates the payment terminal 100 from the rear 1D side. The customer may be a customer of the store. The payment terminal 100 is a stationary terminal that is placed on a stand or the like in the store.

[0074] The payment terminal 100 includes a first touch panel 12, a first LED 13, an NFC antenna 15, a first card slot 16s, a second card slot 17s, a camera 25, and an external terminal 27 on its front side 1A. The payment terminal 100 also includes a second touch panel 22 and a second LED 23 on its rear side 1D.

[0075] The payment terminal 100 is a composite type that allows customers to specify multiple payment methods. The payment terminal 100 may be used, for example, by being placed on a mounting surface α on a store counter.

[0076] On the payment terminal 100, a first card slot 16s, a second card slot 17s, and a first touch panel 12 are arranged in the height direction from the mounting surface α (see Figure 2), starting from the vicinity of the mounting surface α. An NFC antenna 15 is arranged around the first touch panel 12.

[0077] Furthermore, the payment terminal 100 has a first card slot 16s, a second card slot 17s, a first touch panel 12, and an NFC antenna 15, all arranged together on the front side 1A facing the customer. In this case, the customer can easily select one of the multiple payment methods that correspond to the multiple devices lined up in front of them. Because multiple devices that correspond to multiple payment methods are gathered in one place, payments according to each payment method can be executed smoothly.

[0078] Furthermore, a second touch panel 22 is positioned on the payment terminal 100. The second touch panel 22 is used, for example, by a store employee and is positioned on the rear side 1D facing the employee. On the payment terminal 100, the first touch panel 12 and the second touch panel 22 are positioned facing each other.

[0079] Furthermore, when viewed from the side, the top of the payment terminal 100 has a mountain-like shape (see Figure 5B). The mountain shape has a first surface and a second surface. The first surface is the surface with the first touch panel 12, and is the operating surface used by the customer for payment. The second surface is the surface with the second touch panel 22, and is the operating surface used by the store clerk for payment.

[0080] This configuration allows a payment terminal 100 placed on a mounting surface α to be operated simultaneously by a customer and a store employee facing each other. For example, if the payment terminal 100 is installed on a store counter, a store employee positioned inside the counter and a customer positioned outside the counter can operate the payment terminal 100 while facing each other.

[0081] Furthermore, the payment terminal 100 has a camera 25 and a first LED 13 on its front surface 1A. The camera 25 and the first LED 13 may be positioned on the front surface 1A side, but are not limited to the rear surface 1D side of the first touch panel 12, that is, on the peak side of the mountain shape.

[0082] Furthermore, the payment terminal 100 has a second LED 23 positioned on the rear side 1D. The second LED 23 may be positioned on the rear side 1D, closer to the front 1A than the second touch panel 22, that is, towards the peak of the mountain shape, but its position is not limited to this.

[0083] Although the first touch panel 12 and the second touch panel 22 were shown as input means for store staff and customers, the payment terminal 100 may also be equipped with other input means (for example, physical keys or buttons).

[0084] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of the payment terminal 100 in the second embodiment. In Figure 6, components similar to those in the electrical configuration of the payment terminal 100A1 shown in Figure 3 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted or simplified.

[0085] The payment terminal 100 includes a CPU 11, a first touch panel 12, a first LED 13, an NFC IC 14, an NFC antenna 15, a first card reader 16, a second card reader 17, a memory 18, a speaker 24, a camera 25, a second touch panel 22, and a second LED 23.

[0086] The second touch panel 22 accepts input operations, for example, from a store employee. For example, it accepts input of the price and the number of items purchased. The second touch panel 22 may also accept direct input of the payment amount. Furthermore, the second touch panel 22 may accept input operations for selection and decision regarding split payments, for example, it may accept input of the number of customers and the total payment amount.

[0087] Furthermore, the second touch panel 22 displays various information. For example, the second touch panel 22 may display information or a screen related to splitting the bill. In this way, the second touch panel 22 realizes both the functions of an input device that accepts various input operations and a display device that displays various information in a single device. Note that instead of the second touch panel 22, the input device and the display device may be configured as separate devices. Note that the configuration of the second touch panel 22 may be the same as that of the first touch panel 12.

[0088] The second LED 23 displays various information. The second LED 23 may display in various ways. The display methods may include, for example, the display color (e.g., red, green, blue), the display timing (e.g., when purchase information is entered, when each customer's split payment is completed, or when the total payment is completed), and the display pattern (e.g., on, blinking, off).

[0089] Next, we will explain an example of the operation of the payment terminal 100.

[0090] Figures 7A to 7D show the screen transitions of the payment terminal 100. In Figures 7A to 7D, (A1) to (A10) show the screen transitions of the touch panel viewed and operated by the store clerk, i.e., the second touch panel 22. (B3) to (B10) show the screen transitions of the touch panel viewed and operated by the customer, i.e., the first touch panel 12. In Figures 7A to 7D, explanations of matters similar to those in Figures 4A to 4D may be omitted or simplified.

[0091] The CPU 11 reads and executes a program stored in memory 18, for example, and controls the second touch panel 22 in the same way as the first touch panel 12, thereby causing the second touch panel 22 to display screens as shown in the figure or to perform various processes (e.g., input, selection, confirmation). In other words, the second touch panel 22 may perform various screen displays, information input, selection, confirmation, etc., under the control of the CPU 11. Furthermore, each screen may display various information or transition to other screens under the control of the CPU 11.

[0092] In this example, the second touch panel 22 receives input from the staff member (according to the input) and displays the menu selection screen 51 (A1). The staff member then selects the "Sales / Split Payment" menu from the menu list. In response to this selection, the second touch panel 22 displays the number of customers and amount input screen 52 (A2) where the number of customers and the total payment amount are entered.

[0093] Subsequently, the first touch panel 12 displays each screen in response to input from the customer, so that the screens transition and are displayed in the order of (B3) to (B10), similar to (3) to (10) in Figures 4A to 4D. The second touch panel 22 also transitions and displays in the order of (A3) to (A10), in conjunction with the screen transitions of the first touch panel 12. The screens (A3) to (A10) include the first screen 53 and the second screen 54. The screens (B3) to (B10) also include the first screen 53 and the second screen 54. The payment procedure information shown on the payment guidance screen 55A in (A5) is, as an example, information displayed to the store clerk instructing the customer on how to use the card with the payment terminal 100 according to each payment method.

[0094] According to this embodiment, the payment terminal 100 includes a first touch panel 12 and a second touch panel 22 as touch panels. The first touch panel 12 displays a first screen 53 and a second screen 54 under the control of the CPU 11. The second touch panel 22 also displays the first screen 53 and the second screen 54 under the control of the CPU 11. As a result, multiple people, such as store clerks and customers, can view the first screen 53 and the second screen 54 on their respective touch panels, thereby improving the convenience of the payment terminal.

[0095] In this embodiment, the customer primarily operates the first touch panel 12 to perform the input operations, but this is not the only example. A store employee may operate the second touch panel 22, either assisting or taking the lead.

[0096] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the second touch panel 22 is shown to display screens (B3) to (B10) with similar content in conjunction with the screen transitions of the first touch panel 12, but it is not limited to this. For example, the first touch panel 12 and the second touch panel 22 may display different information on at least one of their respective screens. Also, when the first touch panel 12 and the second touch panel 22 are displaying similar screens, the CPU 11 may prioritize the timing of the input operation received from the customer or the store clerk, and use that for display transitions. For example, if the input from the store clerk using the second touch panel 22 is faster than the input from the customer using the first touch panel 12, the CPU 11 may prioritize the input from the store clerk to the second touch panel 22 for displaying information and transitioning screens. This allows the payment terminal 100 to process split bill payments at a faster speed.

[0097] Furthermore, the display of screens (B3) to (B10) by the first touch panel 12 and the display of screens (A3) to (A10) by the second touch panel 22 may be omitted. In other words, the first touch panel 12 and the second touch panel 22 do not need to constantly work together to display the same information or screens.

[0098] (Modification 1 of the configuration of the second embodiment) The payment terminal 100 shown in Figures 5A to 5C is shown to be composed of one CPU, but it may be composed of multiple CPUs. In this case, each of the above-mentioned processes may be executed by at least one of the multiple CPUs. The payment terminal 100 also has a security protection area in a part of the payment terminal 100. The security protection area is an area in the payment terminal 100 that has higher security compared to the area other than the security protection area. For example, the security protection area has tamper resistance. The security protection area may have higher security through software processing, or it may have higher security through the structure and mechanism of the hardware. Components used for payment processing are mainly stored in the security protection area.

[0099] For example, if a system has multiple CPUs, such as a first CPU and a second CPU, each CPU may be connected to the following components. For example, the first CPU may be connected to a first touch panel 12, a first LED 13, an NFC IC 14, an NFC antenna 15, a first card reader 16, a second card reader 17, and a memory 18. The first CPU, first touch panel 12, first LED 13, NFC IC 14, NFC antenna 15, first card reader 16, second card reader 17, and memory 18 may be stored in a security-protected area. Also, for example, the second CPU may be connected to a second touch panel 22, a second LED 23, a speaker, a camera 25, an external terminal 27, and a memory. The second CPU, second touch panel 22, second LED 23, speaker, camera 25, external terminal 27, and memory do not have to be stored in a security-protected area.

[0100] For example, the first CPU may handle processing related to credit card payments and electronic money payments. The second CPU may handle processing related to code payments and cash payments, as well as processing unrelated to payments. Therefore, processing related to splitting the bill (for example, calculations related to splitting the bill) may be mainly handled by the second CPU.

[0101] (Modification 2 of the configuration of the second embodiment) The payment terminal 100 of the second embodiment may be configured as two separate payment terminals: a payment terminal 100A1 operated by the customer and a payment terminal 100A2 operated by the store clerk. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the appearance of a payment terminal 100A in which the customer payment terminal 100A1 and the store clerk payment terminal 100A2 are connected. The payment terminal 100A1 can perform various payment processes in cooperation with the payment terminal 100A2. The payment terminal 100A1 may include a first CPU, a first touch panel 12, a first LED 13, an NFC IC 14, an NFC antenna 15, a first card reader 16, a second card reader 17, a memory 18, and a first communication unit. The first communication unit communicates with the payment terminal 100A2 and other devices. The payment terminal 100A2 may include a second CPU, a second touch panel 22, a second LED 23, a speaker, a camera 25, an external terminal 27, memory, and a second communication unit. The second communication unit communicates with the payment terminal 100A1 and other devices. The processing performed by the first CPU and the second CPU is the same as in the modified example 1 described above.

[0102] The external configuration of the payment terminal 100 in the second embodiment, the payment terminal 100A1 in the modified example 1, and the payment terminal 100A2 is arbitrary. The payment terminal 100A1 and the payment terminal 100A2 may be the same terminal or different terminals. The external configuration of the payment terminal 100A1 in the first embodiment is also arbitrary. In both the first and second embodiments, each terminal such as the payment terminal 100, 100A1, and 100A2 may be portable (mobile, handheld) rather than stationary.

[0103] (Processing Procedures for the First and Second Embodiments) Next, the processing procedures for the first and second embodiments will be described.

[0104] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the payment terminal 100. The processing procedure shown in Figure 9 is controlled, for example, by the CPU 11.

[0105] As shown in (1) or (A1), the first touch panel 12 or the second touch panel 22 receives input from the customer or staff member and selects the split-the-bill menu on the displayed menu selection screen 51 (step S11).

[0106] The first touch panel 12 or the second touch panel 22 receives input from the customer or staff member and, as shown in (2) or (A2), etc., inputs the number of customers and the total payment amount on the number of people and amount input screen 52 (step S12).

[0107] The CPU 11 calculates the amount to be split based on the number of customers and the total payment amount entered, by the formula (total payment amount ÷ number of customers) (step S13). At least the first touch panel 12 displays the respective split amounts on buttons 53a1, 53a2, and 53a3 on the first screen 53, as shown in (3) or (B3), etc. (step S14). At least the first touch panel 12 refers to either the first touch panel 12 alone, or both the first touch panel 12 and the second touch panel 22.

[0108] When a customer or employee looks at the split bill amount on the buttons and selects at least one button from among several buttons (step S15), the display on at least the first touch panel 12 transitions from the first screen 53 to the second screen 54 (step S16). The first touch panel 12 or the second touch panel 22 receives input from the customer or employee and selects a payment method on the second screen 54 as shown in (4) or (B4), etc. (step S17). Then, the second screen 54 transitions to the payment guidance screen 55, which is part of the second screen 54, as shown in (5) or (B5), etc., and displays the payment procedure (step S18).

[0109] Once the payment is complete, the second screen 54 transitions from the payment guidance screen 55 to the payment completion screen 56, as shown in (6) or (B6), and displays that the payment of the split amount has been completed (step S19).

[0110] The CPU 11 determines whether payment for all persons, i.e., payment of the total payment amount, has been completed (step S20). If payment of the total payment amount has not been completed (step S20; No), the process returns to step S15 and repeats the same operation, i.e., the processing of steps S15 to S20, as shown in (7) or (B7), (8) or (B8).

[0111] If payment of the total amount has been completed (step S20; Yes), the first screen 53 displays a message indicating that payment of the total amount has been completed, as shown in (9) or (B9), etc. Alternatively, as shown in (10), the settlement completion screen 56, which is part of the second screen 54, may also display a message indicating that payment of the total amount has been completed.

[0112] In the second embodiment, the second touch panel 22 may display screens (A3) to (A9) in conjunction with the display of screens (B3) to (B9) by the first touch panel 12.

[0113] Based on the above, embodiments of this disclosure describe at least the following matters. Note that the components etc. in parentheses are examples of those corresponding to the embodiments described above, but are not limited to these.

[0114] (Item 1) A payment terminal (payment terminal 100, 100A, 100A1, 100A2) capable of selecting multiple payment methods, comprising a processor (CPU 11) and touch panels (first touch panel 12, second touch panel 22), wherein the touch panels, under the control of the processor, display a screen for inputting the number of customers and the total payment amount, display a first screen (first screen 53) which displays the same number of buttons (buttons 53a1, 53a2, 53a3) as the number of customers in response to the input to the screen, transition from the first screen to display a second screen (second screen 54) which is a screen for selecting the payment method, the first screen displays each of the split amounts obtained by dividing the total payment amount by the number of customers on each of the buttons corresponding to each of the split amounts, transitions to the second screen in response to the selection of a button, and when transitioning from the second screen to the first screen, displays that payment has been completed for the split amount corresponding to the selected button. The second screen displays the payment method as selectable for the split payment amount selected on the first screen, and when payment is completed using the selected payment method, it transitions back to the first screen and the payment terminal.

[0115] This allows the payment terminal to display each customer's share of the bill on a separate button, enabling the selection of the payment method and completion of the payment through button operation, thus realizing a bill-splitting function with reduced operational complexity.

[0116] (Item 2) The payment terminal according to Item 1, wherein the processor, upon transitioning from the second screen to the first screen, indicates that the payment has been completed according to the amount of the split bill for which the payment has been completed, and the touch panel displays buttons other than the button indicating that the payment has been completed, making them selectable in accordance with the completion of the payment.

[0117] This allows the payment terminal to select only the buttons for customers other than those whose payments have already been completed, making it easier to understand the payment status and reducing the complexity of the operation.

[0118] (Item 3) A payment terminal as described in Item 1 or 2, wherein when transitioning from the second screen to the first screen, the first screen displays a message indicating that payment for the total payment amount has been completed when payment for all of the split amounts corresponding to all of the buttons has been completed.

[0119] This allows customers to easily confirm that payment for the total amount has been completed.

[0120] (Item 4) The payment terminal described in Item 1 or 2, wherein the second screen displays a message indicating that payment for the total payment amount has been completed when payment for all of the split payment amounts corresponding to all of the buttons has been completed.

[0121] This allows customers to easily confirm that payment for the total amount has been completed.

[0122] (Item 5) The payment terminal according to any one of Items 1 to 4, wherein the first screen displays the buttons so that the customer can select multiple buttons simultaneously, the second screen displays the payment method so that the customer can select the total amount of the split bill corresponding to the multiple buttons selected simultaneously, and the processor enables a lump-sum payment for the total amount of the split bill corresponding to the multiple buttons selected.

[0123] This will allow one customer to make payments for multiple people at once, improving the convenience of the split-the-bill function.

[0124] (Item 6) The first screen, if there is a fraction when the total payment amount is divided by the number of customers, displays the first amount obtained by subtracting the fraction from the total payment amount and dividing that amount by the number of customers as the fraction-free split amount on the second buttons (buttons 53a2, 53a3) other than the first button (button 53a1), and displays the second amount obtained by adding the fraction to the first split amount as the fraction-included split amount on the first button, the payment terminal according to any one of items 1 to 5.

[0125] This allows the payment terminal to implement a split-the-bill function that reduces the complexity of the operation, even when there are fractional amounts.

[0126] (Item 7) The payment terminal according to any one of Items 1 to 6, wherein the touch panel includes a first touch panel (first touch panel 12) and a second touch panel (second touch panel 22), the first touch panel displays the first screen and the second screen under the control of the processor, and the second touch panel displays the first screen and the second screen under the control of the processor.

[0127] This allows multiple people (for example, a store employee and a customer) to view both the first and second screens on their respective touch panels, thus improving the convenience of the payment terminal.

[0128] (Item 8) A payment support method that supports a payment in which multiple payment methods can be selected, comprising: displaying a screen for inputting the number of customers and the total payment amount; displaying a first screen which displays the same number of buttons as the number of customers in response to the input on the first screen; and transitioning from the first screen to display a second screen which is a screen for selecting the payment method, wherein the first screen displays each of the split amounts obtained by dividing the total payment amount by the number of customers on each of the buttons corresponding to each of the split amounts; transitioning to the second screen in response to the selection of a button; transitioning from the second screen to the first screen, displaying that the payment has been completed for the split amount corresponding to the selected button; the second screen displays the payment method as selectable for the split amount of the button selected on the first screen; and transitioning to the first screen when the payment using the selected payment method is completed.

[0129] This allows the payment support method to display each customer's share amount on a separate button, enabling users to select a payment method and complete the payment by simply pressing the button, thus realizing a payment splitting function that reduces the complexity of the operation.

[0130] A program to cause a computer to execute the payment support method described in item 8.

[0131] This allows the program to display each customer's share of the bill on a separate button, enabling them to select a payment method and complete the payment by simply pressing the button, thus reducing the complexity of the split-the-bill function.

[0132] Although various embodiments have been described above with reference to the drawings, it goes without saying that this disclosure is not limited to such examples. It is clear to those skilled in the art that various modifications or alterations can be conceived within the scope of the claims, and these will naturally also fall within the technical scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, the components of the above embodiments may be combined in any way without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0133] Furthermore, the above embodiment may also apply to a program that realizes the functions of the above method, which is supplied to a computer (e.g., a payment terminal) via a network or various storage media, and which is read and executed by the processor of this computer, as well as a recording medium on which this program is stored.

[0134] This disclosure is useful for payment terminals, payment support methods, and programs that can implement a bill-splitting function with reduced operational complexity.

[0135] 1A Front 1B Side 1C Side 1D Rear 10 Main unit 11 CPU 12 First touch panel 13 First LED 14 NFC IC 15 NFC antenna 16 First card reader 17 Second card reader 18 Memory 22 Second touch panel 23 Second LED 24 Speaker 25 Camera 30 Opening 51 Menu selection screen 52 Number of people and amount input screen 53 First screen 53a1, 53a2, 53a3 Buttons 54 Second screen 55 Payment guidance screen 56 Payment completion screen 100, 100A, 100A1, 100A2 Payment terminal H1 Recess α Mounting surface

Claims

1. A payment terminal capable of selecting multiple payment methods, comprising: a processor; and a touch panel, wherein the touch panel, under the control of the processor, displays a screen for inputting the number of customers and the total payment amount; displays a first screen, which displays the same number of buttons as the number of customers, in response to the input on the first screen; transitions from the first screen to display a second screen, which is a screen for selecting the payment method; the first screen displays each of the split amounts obtained by dividing the total payment amount by the number of customers on each of the buttons corresponding to each of the split amounts; transitions to the second screen in response to the selection of a button; transitions from the second screen to the first screen, which displays that payment has been completed for the split amount corresponding to the selected button; the second screen displays the payment method as selectable for the split amount of the button selected on the first screen; and transitions to the first screen when payment by the selected payment method is completed.

2. The payment terminal according to claim 1, wherein when the user transitions from the second screen to the first screen, the processor indicates that the payment of the split bill has been completed, and the touch panel displays buttons other than the button indicating that the payment has been completed, allowing the user to select them in accordance with the completion of the payment.

3. The payment terminal according to claim 1, wherein when transitioning from the second screen to the first screen, the first screen displays a message indicating that payment for the total payment amount has been completed when payment for all of the split bill amounts corresponding to all of the buttons has been completed.

4. The payment terminal according to claim 1, wherein the second screen displays a message indicating that payment for the total payment amount has been completed when payment for all of the split payment amounts corresponding to all of the buttons has been completed.

5. The payment terminal according to claim 1, wherein the first screen displays the buttons so that the customer can select multiple buttons simultaneously, the second screen displays the payment method so that the customer can select the total amount of the split bill corresponding to the multiple buttons selected simultaneously, and the processor enables a lump-sum payment for the total amount of the split bill corresponding to the multiple buttons selected.

6. The payment terminal according to claim 1, wherein, if there is a fraction when the total payment amount is divided by the number of customers, the first screen displays the first amount obtained by subtracting the fraction from the total payment amount and dividing that amount by the number of customers as the fraction-free split payment amount on the second buttons other than the first button, and the second amount obtained by adding the fraction to the first amount as the fraction-included split payment amount on the first button.

7. The payment terminal according to claim 1, wherein the touch panel includes a first touch panel and a second touch panel, the first touch panel displays the first screen and the second screen under the control of the processor, and the second touch panel displays the first screen and the second screen under the control of the processor.

8. A payment support method that supports a payment that allows the selection of multiple payment methods, comprising: displaying a screen for inputting the number of customers and the total payment amount; displaying a first screen which displays the same number of buttons as the number of customers in response to the input on the first screen; and transitioning from the first screen to display a second screen which is a screen for selecting the payment method, wherein the first screen displays each of the split amounts obtained by dividing the total payment amount by the number of customers on each of the buttons corresponding to each of the split amounts; transitioning to the second screen in response to the selection of a button; transitioning from the second screen to the first screen, displaying that the payment has been completed for the split amount corresponding to the selected button; the second screen displays the payment method as selectable for the split amount of the button selected on the first screen; and transitioning to the first screen when the payment using the selected payment method is completed.

9. A program for causing a computer to execute the payment support method described in claim 8.

Images