Retail Accounting Terminal With Automatic Semi-Self Mode Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing accounting systems in retail stores require complex switching operations to transition between semi-self and full-self methods, complicating labor management and efficiency during varying congestion situations.

Innovation Solution

An accounting processing apparatus that can seamlessly switch between semi-self and full-self methods by allowing easy configuration changes through a user interface, enabling the same device to function as both a registration machine and an accounting machine based on operational needs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a special switching operation is performed to change the operation method, then the accounting system can transition between semi-self and full-self methods, but the operational complexity increases and requires manual intervention

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveAbility to switch between semi-self and full-self methodsVSAvoidComplexity of switching operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The accounting processing apparatus automatically detects whether a registration machine is present and autonomously switches its operation mode accordingly. When no registration machine is detected, the apparatus automatically transitions to full-self method, and when a registration machine is detected, it automatically transitions to semi-self method, eliminating the need for manual switching operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors the operational state and presence of connected devices, using this feedback information to automatically adjust its operation mode. The apparatus receives detection results from the registration machine and dynamically changes its functioning based on this real-time feedback, enabling seamless adaptation without user intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If the accounting system is designed to support both semi-self and full-self methods, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveSupport for multiple operation methodsVSAvoidComplexity of accounting system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The accounting processing apparatus is designed with universal functionality to perform both semi-self and full-self methods using the same hardware and software platform. The single apparatus can dynamically assume different operational roles based on the presence of a registration machine, eliminating the need for separate dedicated devices for each method and reducing overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs dynamic configuration where the operational characteristics of the accounting apparatus change based on real-time conditions. The apparatus can dynamically enable or disable certain functions (such as product registration capability) depending on whether it is operating in semi-self or full-self mode, allowing versatility without permanent structural complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS20250336274A1Accounting processing apparatus and program recording medium
Publication Date: 2025.10.30 TOSHIBA TEC KK
  • US20250336274A1 patent drawing
  • US20250336274A1 patent drawing
  • US20250336274A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An accounting processing apparatus according to an embodiment includes a registration screen display unit, a receiving unit, an accounting screen display unit, and an accounting processing unit. In a case of receiving input operation while a standby screen is being displayed, the registration screen display unit displays a product registration screen for receiving registration of first information related to a product to be purchased. The receiving unit receives second information related to the transaction of the product from the registration machine. In a case of receiving the second information, the accounting screen display unit displays an accounting screen for accounting processing for a product based on the second information. The accounting processing unit performs accounting processing on the product based on the first information received through the product registration screen or the second information received by the receiving unit.