JP2005148924A - Payment-settling device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a payment-settling device which requires no settlement-exclusive device and enables an IC tag and an IC tag reader, which are used for solving the aforementioned problem, to be easily and conveniently used. <P>SOLUTION: The payment-settling device is provided with; an IC tag reading means which communicates with the IC tag; a total value computing means which computes a total value to output; and a settling means which settles a payment. The IC tag reading means communicates with one or more IC tags to obtain value information stored in each IC tag. The total value computing means totals one or more pieces of value information, which the IC tag reading means obtains, to output total value information. The settling means settles the payment based on the total value information. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a payment settlement apparatus such as an IC tag reader device, a small terminal device with an IC tag reader, an IC card with an IC tag reader, and a telephone with an IC card reader.

  Recently, many experiments have been conducted to attach IC tags to products and distribute them. As an application example of the IC tag, the product price is converted into a bar code like the current bar code, and the bar code reader reads it one by one at the cash register of the store and outputs the total price. Used for checkout. Prior to barcode conversion, product prices were entered from the cash register numeric keypad one by one, so the introduction of barcodes made it possible to improve the efficiency of checkout operations. However, there is a problem that the barcodes need to be read one by one by the barcode reader, and accurate alignment is necessary for reading. An IC tag appears there, and the IC tag reader can read the IC tag even if it is separated from the IC tag by a certain distance, and can read data of a plurality of IC tags almost simultaneously.

As an example of the conventional technology, at a sales floor such as a supermarket or a mass retailer, customers do not have to carry the product they want to purchase in the shopping cart and carry it around the store, and the payment process for the purchased product at the cash register is shortened. There is a “payment settlement system using a non-contact IC tag” that can be performed on an efficient liquid over time (see, for example, Patent Document 1). There is also a “vending machine” that improves the operability of a vending machine that can purchase products using a data carrier such as an IC card or IC tag without complicating the configuration (for example, Patent Document 2). reference). In addition, there is a “settlement system” that shortens the time for settlement of merchandise purchases, particularly the settlement time for credit card payment (see, for example, Patent Document 3).
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-8134 JP 2002-49956 A JP 2003-187334 A

  However, like the inventions described in Patent Documents 1 to 3, in the prior art, both the barcode and the IC tag know the total amount of money while the shopper puts the product in the shopping cart and moves inside the store. However, there is a problem that the total amount cannot be known without going to the cash register and reading it with a barcode reader or IC tag reader. In addition, when paying with a prepaid card or a mobile phone with a prepaid card function, a dedicated device is required to connect to the prepaid card or a mobile phone with a prepaid card function for payment. .

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances. In order to eliminate the need for an apparatus exclusively for settlement and solve the above-mentioned problems, payment settlement that realizes improved usability and convenience of the IC tag and the IC tag reader apparatus. An object is to provide an apparatus.

  In order to achieve such an object, the present invention comprises an IC tag reader means for communicating with an IC tag, a total value calculation means for calculating and outputting a total value, and a payment means for adjusting payment, and an IC tag reader means. Communicates with one or more IC tags to acquire value information stored in each IC tag, and the total value calculating means adds up the one or more value information acquired by the IC tag means. Total value information is output, and the settlement means performs payment settlement based on the total value information.

  The present invention further comprises prepaid means for accumulating value information corresponding to the amount information that has been paid and settled in advance, and the settlement means pays by subtracting the total value information from the accumulated value information accumulated in the prepaid means. It is characterized by payment.

  The present invention further comprises prepaid connection I / F means for connecting to prepaid means for storing value information corresponding to the amount information that has been paid and settled in advance, and the settlement means comprises prepaid connection I / F means. The total value information is transmitted to the prepaid means, and the payment is settled by subtracting the total value information from the stored value information stored in the prepaid means.

  The present invention further comprises server communication means for transmitting and receiving information by communicating with the server means, and the settlement means subtracts the total value information from the value information stored in the server means by the server communication means. It is characterized in that payment is settled by.

  The present invention also includes an IC tag reader that communicates with an IC tag, a total value calculator that calculates and outputs a total value, and a value information display that displays value information. The value information stored in the IC tag is acquired by communicating with the above IC tag, and the total value calculation means outputs the total value information by summing up the acquired one or more value information, and the value information The display means displays the total value information.

  The present invention further includes prepaid means for accumulating value information corresponding to the amount information paid and settled in advance, and the value information display means displays the total value information and the accumulation accumulated in the prepaid means. It is characterized by displaying value information.

  The present invention further includes server communication means for transmitting and receiving information by communicating with the server means, and the value information display means displays the total value information and is stored in the server means acquired by the server communication means. It is characterized by displaying value information.

  The present invention also includes an IC tag reader means for communicating with the IC tag, a total value calculation means for calculating and outputting the total value, and a payment limit determination means for determining whether or not it is a payment limit. The value information stored in the IC tag is acquired by communicating with one or more IC tags, and the total value calculation means outputs the total value information by summing the acquired one or more value information, and payment The limit judging means judges whether the payment limit is exceeded based on the total value information.

  The present invention further includes prepaid means for accumulating value information corresponding to the amount information paid in advance, and the payment limit judging means is based on the accumulated value information and the total value information accumulated in the prepaid means. To determine whether or not the payment limit is exceeded.

  The present invention further includes server communication means for transmitting and receiving information by communicating with the server means. The server communication means acquires value information stored in the server means, and the payment limit determination means includes the value information. And determining whether or not the payment limit is exceeded based on the total value information.

  The present invention also provides a first IC tag reader means and a second IC tag reader means for communicating with an IC tag, a first total value calculation means and a second total value calculation means for calculating and outputting a total value. And a total value comparing means for comparing the total value, wherein the first IC tag reader means communicates with one or more IC tags to acquire value information stored in the IC tag, The total value calculation means outputs the first total value information by summing the acquired one or more pieces of value information, and the second IC tag reader means communicates with the one or more IC tags, The stored value information is acquired, the second total value calculation means outputs the second total value information by summing the acquired one or more value information, and the total value comparison means Total value information and second combination Comparing the value information, if the first sum value information and the second sum value information is different from, and outputs the differences signal.

  In addition, the present invention further includes a settlement means for settlement of payment, and the total value comparison means compares the first total value information and the second total value information, and the first total value information and the second total When the value information matches, the settlement means performs payment settlement based on the total value information.

  The present invention further includes prepaid means for accumulating the amount information that has been settled in advance, and the settlement means performs payment settlement by subtracting the total value information from the accumulated value information accumulated in the prepaid means. And

  The present invention further comprises server communication means for transmitting and receiving information by communicating with the server means, and the settlement means subtracts the total value information from the value information stored in the server means by the server communication means. It is characterized in that payment is settled by.

  IC tag reader means for communicating with the IC tag, total value calculation means for calculating and outputting the total value, value information display means for displaying the value information, value information transmitting means for transmitting the value information, and settlement means, The value information transmission means includes the value information acquired by the IC tag reader means or the total value information output by the total value calculation means via the payment connection I / F means. It transmits to the settlement means.

  The payment settlement apparatus of the present invention is a small display device.

  The payment settlement apparatus of the present invention is an IC card.

  The payment settlement apparatus of the present invention is a portable terminal.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to eliminate the need for an apparatus exclusively for payment, improve the usability and convenience of the IC tag and the IC tag reader apparatus, and perform payment settlement easily and quickly without using cash.

  The best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a payment settlement apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the processing operation.
The IC tag reader means 1 communicates with one or more IC tags to acquire value information stored in each IC tag. Here, the IC tag is called a wireless tag, an RFID, a wireless IC tag, or the like, and includes a storage unit that stores predetermined information and a wireless communication unit that transmits and receives the information using a wireless communication unit. The IC tag is attached to the product, and predetermined information related to the product is stored in its storage means. Typical information includes price information of the product, information that can be converted into the price of the product (point information, etc.) ) Information related to the product such as value information and the name of the product. The IC tag reader means 1 uses the wireless communication means (FIG. 30, S1) to acquire value information stored in the IC tag (S2).

  The total value calculation means 3 outputs total value information by calculating the total of one or more value information acquired from the IC tag means attached to one or more products (S3). The settlement means 2 performs payment settlement based on the total value information output by the total value calculation means 3 (S4). As a payment settlement method, there are a prepaid method, a server method and the like which will be described later. As another method, the settlement means 2 may display the total value information on a display device that is a display means or display a message for prompting the settlement work to encourage the operator to perform the settlement work.

  As an example of this payment settlement apparatus, there is an IC tag reader apparatus for shopping carts. An IC tag reader device for a shopping cart is usually attached to a shopping cart, communicates with an IC tag attached to a product put in the shopping cart, acquires and displays information about the price of the product and other products. The acquired information is displayed on the device. It also displays the total price of the items in the shopping cart. Further, this shopping cart tag reader device may be a dedicated device, or an IC reader means or the like may be mounted on an IC card, a mobile phone or the like as will be described later.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a payment settlement apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the processing operation.
A prepaid method is used as the settlement means 2. Since the IC tag reader means 1 and the total value calculation means 3 have already been described, description thereof will be omitted here.
The prepaid means 4 used in the prepaid method is a method of prepaid payment in advance and stores value information corresponding to the amount information paid by payment settlement in the storage means (sometimes called so-called deposit or charge). There is something to keep.

  The predetermined method includes a method in which value information corresponding to the paid amount is transferred from a predetermined device to a storage means and accumulated. The settlement means 2 settles the payment by subtracting the total value information calculated by the total value calculation means from the value information accumulated in the storage means by the prepaid means 4, that is, the accumulated value information.

  The process until the total value information is output is the same as that in the first embodiment (FIG. 31, S11 to S13). If the total value information is larger than the accumulated value information (S14 / NO), the payment cannot be settled, so that a message is displayed as a warning or a warning sound is sounded. Etc. (S17). When the total value information is smaller than the accumulated value information (S14 / YES), the total value information calculated by the total value calculating means is subtracted from the accumulated value information (S15). Then, the new accumulated value information after subtraction is stored (S16).

  In this embodiment, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, payment may be settled even if the stored value information becomes negative. The predetermined condition may be a case where a deposit of a certain amount or more is in a predetermined financial institution. Further, the settlement means 2 may perform settlement by giving a predetermined discount to the total value information.

  As a predetermined discount method, the total value information is multiplied by a predetermined discount rate (or 0.9 if it is 1 discount) to obtain total value information, a certain amount of money is deducted from the total value information, It is conceivable to add points to accumulated value information according to the total value information settled.

  In addition, the past payment total amount (settled amount) is stored, and when the total payment amount reaches the predetermined total payment amount, the predetermined total amount or the past total payment amount is set to a predetermined amount. It may be possible to store corresponding value information in addition to the accumulated value information at that time.

  In another embodiment (see FIG. 32), the prepaid means 4 and the main device may be physically separate devices. The main body device is an IC tag reader device for shopping carts, and the prepaid means 4 is a storage device (IC card, prepaid card, IC card with built-in wireless IC tag, mobile terminal, mobile phone) in which electronic money information is stored. It is.

  The main unit includes a prepaid connection I / F unit 30 for connecting to the prepaid unit 4, and the settlement unit 2 transmits the total value information to the prepaid unit 4 via the prepaid connection I / F unit 30, and the prepaid unit 4. Payment settlement is performed by subtracting the total value information from the accumulated value information accumulated in 4.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a payment settlement apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing the processing operation of this embodiment.
A server system is used as the settlement means 2. Since the IC tag reader means 1 and the total value calculation means 3 have already been described, description thereof will be omitted here.
With the server means used in the server system, money information corresponding to money is stored in the storage means, and payment can be settled based on the money information.

  This money information may be deposit information deposited in a financial institution, or prepaid information that has been paid and settled in advance. The server means includes a communication means, and payment can be settled using the communication. The payment settlement apparatus includes server communication means 5 for transmitting and receiving value information by communicating with server means. The settlement means 2 communicates with the server means by the server communication means 5 and performs payment settlement by subtracting the total value information from the money information stored in the server means.

  The processing of the present embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart. The process until the total value information is output is the same as in the above embodiments (FIG. 36, S41 to S43). If the total value information is larger than the money information (S44 / NO), the payment cannot be settled, so a message is displayed as a warning to that effect or a warning sound is sounded to notify the user. (S47). When the total value information is smaller than the money information (S44 / YES), the total value information calculated by the total value calculation means is subtracted from the money information (S45). Then, new money information after subtraction is stored (S46).

  In addition, although not shown in the figure, a gate unit that performs a predetermined operation by determining whether the settlement is properly performed by communicating with the settlement unit 2 is also conceivable. For example, if the payment has not been completed or if the payment has not been made properly, a warning sound is sounded when passing through the gate, or a warning message is displayed on the specified display. Or The gate may be mechanically closed like an automatic ticket gate at a station. Also, if the payment is done properly, it will not sound a warning sound, display a warning message, or close the gate. Communication between the gate means and the settlement means 2 is performed by a wireless I / F or the like provided in a device including the settlement means 2.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a payment settlement apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.
Since the IC tag reader means 1 and the total value calculation means 3 have already been described, description thereof will be omitted here.
The value information display unit 6 displays the total value information calculated by the total value calculation unit 3 on the display unit, and updates the total value information every time the IC tag reader unit 1 acquires the value information. Alternatively, in addition to the total value information, the value information of the product acquired at that time may be displayed, or may be displayed together with the total value information. Alternatively, value information for each product may be displayed as a list. Further, the name of the product and other information may be displayed in association with the value information. The product name and other information are also obtained by the IC tag reader means 1 in the same manner as the value information.

  There is product information as other information stored in the IC tag, but if the product is a normal product, the name, function, efficacy, specifications (usage, color, dimensions, shape, weight, etc.) of the product, It is information on materials such as raw materials, related information, date of manufacture, date of sale, country of sale, country of manufacture, manufacturer name, store name, price, etc.

When the product is, for example, a food product, in addition to the above, it is information such as quantity, production place, expiration date, and the like.
If the product is a device, for example, information about the device (device type (cell phone, PHS, IP phone, IP terminal device, general subscriber phone, facsimile device, computer with communication function, PDA, etc.), device name , Device terminal identification information (telephone number, IP address, URI, URL, ID, etc.), device specifications, installation location, use environment, use history, device profile, etc.), device user information (name, gender) , Date of birth, age, company name, address, hobby, profile, etc.), images (device images, user face images, moving images, other images), voice data (voice messages, BGM, music, etc.) ) And the like. The product information is usually text data, but may be binary data such as image data or a program. Moreover, merchandise information is not limited to the said information, All the information regarding a target object is included.

  The merchandise information is usually stored in a storage means such as an IC tag RAM or ROM. Further, the product information is not limited to the above-described product information but also includes product status information. For example, in the case of a product with a product, the state information of the product indicates the state of the product or the time state such as during manufacturing, inspection, storage, shipping, sales, use, repair, recycling, etc. There is information to represent. For example, when a product reaches the user's hand (when it is sold), the user can know that the product is sold and the user is in use by enabling a bit indicating that the product is in use. It is possible to provide various services by obtaining the information. For example, if the product has a design right and the product is on sale, the design right and a bit on sale may be enabled to prevent unauthorized photography. it can.

  As another example, the product information may be composed of at least one of product data information and layout information (display method information) as in HTML. That is, the layout information is information indicating a method (display method) of displaying the product data information on the display unit. That is, the product information is information displayed on the display unit of the reader / writer device based on the layout information.

  As layout information, for example, character type (font), character size, character color, character modification, character display position, image display position, image size, background color, animation position, animation size More specifically, there is layout information and the like handled in the XML language (ML-based file) of XML or HTML.

The display means of the reader / writer device displays product information on the display unit of the device. That is, the product information display means displays product data information on the display unit based on the layout information of the product information. When the product information is an ML (markup language) based file (XML, HTML, etc.), the Web browser reads the file and the display data that is actually displayed on the display unit based on the display method information Convert to Further, a conversion unit that converts product information into sound may be provided, and an audio signal converted into analog sound may be output from an acoustic unit such as a speaker or a handset.
Thereby, since the IC tag transmits layout information, a display method (layout) of product information to be displayed on the reader / writer device can be designated.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a payment settlement apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.
Since the IC tag reader unit 1, the total value calculation unit 3, and the prepaid unit 4 have already been described, description thereof will be omitted here.
The value information display means 6 displays the total value information and the accumulated value information accumulated in the prepaid means 4. Alternatively, in addition to the total value information, the value information of the product acquired at that time may be displayed, or may be displayed together with the total value information. Alternatively, value information for each product may be displayed as a list. Further, the name of the product and other information may be displayed in association with the value information.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a payment settlement apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.
Since the IC tag reader unit 1, the total value calculation unit 3, and the server unit have already been described, description thereof is omitted here.
The value information display means 6 displays the total value information on the display means and also displays the money information stored in the server means. In this case, display information is added to each piece of information so that the total value information and money information can be distinguished. Alternatively, in addition to the total value information, the value information of the product acquired at that time may be displayed as needed, or may be displayed together with the total value information. Alternatively, value information for each product may be displayed as a list. Further, the name of the product and other information may be displayed in association with the value information.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a payment settlement apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing the processing operation of this embodiment.
Since the IC tag reader means 1 and the total value calculation means 3 have already been described, description thereof will be omitted here.
The payment limit determination unit 7 determines whether there is a payment limit based on the total value information output by the total value calculation unit 3. As a method for determining whether there is a payment limit, there are a method using accumulated value information stored in the prepaid means 4 described later and a method using value information stored in the server means.

  As another method, there is a method using predetermined value information. That is, the predetermined value information determined in advance is compared with the total value information, and when the total value information is larger than the predetermined value information, it is determined that the payment limit amount is exceeded or the payment capability is exceeded. .

  The processing of the present embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart. The process until the total value information is output is the same as in the above embodiments (FIGS. 37, S51 to S53). If it is determined that the limit of the payment capability has been exceeded (S54 / NO), a message to that effect may be displayed on a display means (not shown) or by a ringing means (not shown). A warning sound may be sounded (S56). If it is determined that the limit has not been exceeded (S54 / YES), a message to that effect may be displayed on the display means, or a confirmation sound to that effect may be sounded (S55). ). The predetermined value information can be changed to any value at any time.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a payment settlement apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing the processing operation of this embodiment.
Since the IC tag reader unit 1, the total value calculation unit 3, and the prepaid unit 4 have already been described, description thereof will be omitted here.
The payment limit determination means 7 determines whether or not the payment limit is exceeded based on the accumulated value information accumulated in the prepaid means 4 and the total value information output by the total value calculation means 3. That is, the accumulated value information and the total value information are compared, and if the total value information is larger than the accumulated value information, it is determined that the payment limit amount is exceeded or the payment ability is exceeded.

  The processing of the present embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart. The process until the total value information is output is the same as in the above embodiments (FIG. 38, S61 to S63). If it is determined that the limit has been exceeded (S64 / NO), a message notifying that effect may be displayed on a display means (not shown), or a warning sound is output by a sounding means (not shown). You may make it ring (S66). If it is determined that the limit is not exceeded (S64 / YES), a message notifying that may be displayed on the display means, or a confirmation sound notifying that may be sounded (S65). .

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a payment settlement apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing the processing operation of this embodiment.
Since the IC tag reader unit 1, the total value calculation unit 3, and the server unit have already been described, description thereof is omitted here.
The server communication means 5 acquires money information stored in the storage means of the server means by communicating with the server means. The payment limit determination means 7 determines whether or not the payment limit is exceeded based on the money information acquired from the server means and the total value information output by the total value calculation means 3. That is, the money information acquired from the server means is compared with the total value information, and when the total value information is larger than the money information, it is determined that the payment limit amount is exceeded or the payment capability is exceeded.

  The processing of the present embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart. The process until the total value information is output is the same as in the above embodiments (FIG. 39, S71 to S73). When it is determined that the limit has been exceeded (S74 / NO), a message notifying that may be displayed on the display means (not shown), or a warning sound is sounded by the sounding means (not shown). You may ring (S76). If it is determined that the limit has not been exceeded (S74 / YES), a message notifying that may be displayed on the display means, or a confirmation sound notifying that may be sounded (S75). .

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a payment settlement apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing the processing operation of this embodiment.
Since the IC tag reader means and the total value calculation means have already been described, detailed description thereof is omitted here.
The first and second are distinguished from each other in that there are two types of pairs of IC tag reader means and total value calculation means 3. The total value comparing means 10 compares the first total value information and the second total value information, and outputs a difference signal when the first total value information and the second total value information are different. Is.

  The processing of the present embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart. The process until the total value information is output is the same as in the above embodiments, but in this embodiment, the first IC tag reader means and the second IC tag reader means communicate with the IC tag, respectively (FIG. 40, S81). The first total value information and the second total value information are acquired (S82), and the first total value information and the second total value information are output (S83). When the first total value information and the second total value information are different (S84 / NO), a message to that effect may be displayed on the display means (not shown), or the sounding means A warning sound may be generated by (not shown) (S86). If the comparison results match (S84 / YES), a message to that effect may be displayed on the display means, or a confirmation sound may be sounded by the sounding means (S85).

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a payment settlement apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing the processing operation of this embodiment.
Since the first and second IC tag reader means 8 and 9, the first and second total value calculation means 11 and 12, and the total value comparison means have already been described, description thereof will be omitted here.
The total value comparison means 10 compares the first total value information and the second total value information, and outputs a match signal when the first total value information and the second total value information match. is there.

  The processing of the present embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart. The process until the total value information is output is the same as that in the eleventh embodiment (FIG. 41, S91 to S93). If the first total value information and the second total value information are different (S94 / NO), a message to that effect may be displayed on the display means (not shown), or the sounding means A warning sound may be generated by (not shown) (S97). Further, when the total value comparison means 10 determines that they match (S94 / YES), the settlement means 2 outputs a match signal (S95) and pays based on the total value information output by the total value calculation means 3 Checkout is performed (S96). The payment settlement method includes the above-described prepaid method, server method, and the like (the description is omitted because of duplication).

  As another embodiment, a first device (for example, an IC card or a mobile phone) including a first IC tag reader unit 8 and a first total value calculation unit 11, a second IC tag reader unit 9, a first unit A settlement system comprising a second device (for example, a register) provided with two total value calculation means 12, total value comparison means 10, and settlement means 2 is also conceivable. In this case, the first total value information output from the first total value calculation means 3 is transferred to the total value comparison means 10 of the second device, or the settlement control by the settlement means 2 of the second device. Communication I / F means (not shown), which is communication means for transmitting information to the first device, is required. The communication I / F means may be a wired I / F connected by cables, or a wireless I / F that communicates by radio waves or infrared rays.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a payment settlement apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing the processing operation of this embodiment.
The first and second IC tag reader means 8 and 9, the first and second total value calculation means 11 and 12, the total value comparison means 10, the prepaid means 4, and the payment means 2 using the prepaid means 4 have already been described. Therefore, the explanation is omitted here.

  The processing of the present embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart. Until the total value information is output, the process is the same as that in the twelfth embodiment (FIG. 42, S101 to S103). When the first total value information and the second total value information are different (S104 / NO), a message to that effect may be displayed on the display means (not shown), or the sounding means A warning sound may be generated by (not shown) (S109). Further, when the total value comparison means 10 determines that they match (S104 / YES), the settlement means 2 outputs a match signal (S105), and compares the accumulated value information with the total value information (S106). If the total value information is larger than the stored value information (S106 / NO), the payment cannot be settled, so that a message is displayed as a warning or a warning sound is sounded. Etc. (S110). When the total value information is smaller than the accumulated value information (S106 / YES), the total value information calculated by the total value calculating means is subtracted from the accumulated value information (S107). Then, the new accumulated value information after subtraction is stored (S108).

  As another embodiment, a first device (for example, an IC card, a mobile phone) including a first IC tag reader unit 8, a first total value calculation unit 11, and a prepaid unit 4, and a second IC A settlement system comprising a second device (for example, a register) provided with a tag reader unit 9, a second total value calculation unit 12, a total value comparison unit 10, and a settlement unit 2 is also conceivable. In this case, the first total value information output from the first total value calculation means 11 is transferred to the total value comparison means 12 of the second device, or the settlement control by the settlement means 2 of the second device. Communication I / F means (not shown), which is communication means for transmitting information to the first device, is required. The communication I / F means may be a wired I / F connected by cables, or a wireless I / F that communicates by radio waves or infrared rays. Further, instead of transferring the total value information, the value information of the product and other information may be transferred.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a payment settlement apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.
Since the first and second IC tag reader means 8 and 9, the first and second total value calculating means 11 and 12, the total value comparing means 10 and the settlement means 2 using the server means have already been described, here Then, explanation is omitted.

  The processing of the present embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart. Until the total value information is output, the process is the same as that in the twelfth embodiment (FIG. 43, S201 to S203). If the first total value information and the second total value information are different (S204 / NO), a message to that effect may be displayed on the display means (not shown), or the sounding means A warning sound may be generated by (not shown) (S209). Further, when the total value comparison means 10 determines that they match (S204 / YES), the settlement means 2 outputs a match signal (S205), and compares the money information with the total value information (S206). Here, if the total value information is larger than the money information (S206 / NO), the payment cannot be settled, so that a message is displayed as a warning or a warning sound is sounded, etc. (S210). When the total value information is smaller than the money information (S206 / YES), the total value information calculated by the total value calculation means is subtracted from the money information (S207). Then, the new subtracted money information is stored (S208).

  As another embodiment, a first device (for example, an IC card, a mobile phone) including a first IC tag reader unit 8, a first total value calculation unit 11, and a server communication unit 5, and a second A settlement system comprising a second device (for example, a register) provided with the IC tag reader unit 9, the second total value calculation unit 12, the total value comparison unit 10, and the settlement unit 2 is also conceivable. In this case, the first total value information output from the first total value calculation means 3 is transferred to the total value comparison means 10 of the second device, or the settlement control by the settlement means 2 of the second device. Communication I / F means (not shown), which is communication means for transmitting information to the first device, is required. The communication I / F means may be a wired I / F connected by cables, or a wireless I / F that communicates by radio waves or infrared rays.

FIG. 33 is a block diagram of a payment settlement apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.
Since the IC tag reader unit 1, the total value calculation unit 3, and the value information display unit 6 have already been described, description thereof will be omitted here.
The value information transmission unit 32 transmits the value information acquired by the IC tag reader unit 1 or the total value information output by the total value calculation unit 3 to the settlement unit 2 via the settlement connection I / F unit 31. This apparatus does not include the settlement means 2 for performing settlement, but merely includes the settlement connection I / F means 31 for connecting to the apparatus including the settlement means 2. The settlement connection I / F means 31 may be a wired I / F connected by cables, or a wireless I / F communicated by radio waves or infrared rays.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram of an IC card provided with IC tag reader means 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The CPU 13 (central processing unit) controls the entire IC card, and its execution program is stored in the ROM 14 (read-only memory). The CPU 13 reads the execution program from the ROM 14 and includes instructions included in the execution program. Are sequentially interpreted to control the entire IC card.

  A RAM 15 (random access memory) forms a work area necessary for the control, and stores storage parameters and various parameters and management information necessary for the control.

  The operation input / display unit 16 includes a display for displaying various operation keys, operation guidance, and the like, and is for the operator to operate the IC card. The IC card I / F 17 is an I / F that connects an IC IC card and an external device that is connected to the IC card, and there are an IC card I / F 17 that is connected by contact with a connector or a wireless connection that is contactless. Alternatively, the IC tag reader means 1 may be used to connect to an external device.

  FIG. 18 shows a block diagram of an IC tag of an embodiment of the tag means and an IC tag reader / writer device which is an embodiment of the tag communication means. In the present invention, it is assumed that the IC tag is built in the product or is installed in the vicinity of the product. When incorporated, the IC tag may be composed of a silicon chip of several millimeters square.

  The IC tag includes a wireless communication means 28 including an antenna coil, a resonance capacitor, a modulation / demodulation circuit, and a rectifying / smoothing circuit for transmitting and receiving radio signals, and a CPU 13, ROM 14, and RAM 15. A high-frequency power radio signal transmitted from the reader / writer device is received by an antenna and a resonance capacitor, rectified and smoothed by a rectifying / smoothing circuit, an operation power source having a constant voltage is created and supplied to the inside of the IC tag.

  Further, the signal transmitted from the reader / writer device is superimposed on the power radio signal, and the received signal is demodulated by the modem circuit. The CPU 13 operates by a program stored in the ROM 14, and controls the operation of the entire IC tag while forming a work area necessary for the operation on the RAM. There are two types of IC tags: a read-only type that cannot be changed once information is written once, a type that can be rewritten later, and a type that can only be added (write-once type). The IC tag is not usually mounted with a power source, but a battery may be mounted as a power source.

  The reader / writer device includes a wireless transmission unit 34 including a transmission antenna coil for transmitting a radio signal, a wireless reception unit 35 including a reception antenna coil for receiving a radio signal, and a control circuit 33.

  The control circuit 33 transmits a power radio signal and superimposes the signal to be transmitted on the power radio signal and transmits it from the transmission antenna. In addition, a signal transmitted from the IC tag is received from the receiving antenna and demodulated to obtain received data. As described above, by performing communication using the radio wave signal between the IC tag and the reader / writer device, information on the IC tag can be read, and conversely, information to be written on the IC tag can be written on the IC tag. . The reader / writer device includes both a reader unit and a writer unit. However, depending on the application, only one of them may be provided.

  As a transmission medium method between the IC tag and the IC tag reader / writer device, there are an electromagnetic coupling type, an electromagnetic induction type, a microwave type, an optical communication type, and the like. If there are a plurality of reader / writer devices, an IC tag reading error due to mutual interference occurs. As a countermeasure, there is a synchronization means for preventing interference by notifying each other of the communication status between reader / writer devices. Further, one reader / writer device may be provided with master slave means for controlling another reader / writer device.

  The wireless protocol or communication system for IC tags using radio signals may be configured with a simple protocol based on command and response, for example. There are various other protocols, and many are currently proposed. Therefore, any protocol can be used in the present invention although it is not mentioned here. In particular, HTTP is used as the protocol, and ML (markup language) -based files (XML, HTML, SGML, XHTML, CHTML, HDML, DHTML, etc.) are used in the file format for more versatile use. Can be expected.

  In addition, depending on the type of IC tag used, the usage of the IC tag, or the radio frequency used by the IC tag, there are many communication methods (also called air interfaces, so-called communication methods, Reader / writer device when there is a mixture of IC tags with different usable communication methods, because there are radio frequency to be used, communication protocol, error correction method, encoding method, compression method, etc.) There is a problem that communication cannot be performed with an IC tag that uses a communication method other than the communication method that can be used. In order to solve this, a multi-communication method means or a communication method switching means is provided.

  The multi-communication method means or the communication method switching means, taking a communication protocol as an example, has the same basic idea as the case of switching and using the SIP standard call setting protocol and the local call setting protocol described later. The writer device sends out a predetermined IC tag wireless protocol, then sends out another IC tag wireless protocol, and sends out the communication protocol possessed by the reader / writer device one after another. When the IC tag receives a communication protocol provided by itself, the IC tag communicates as it is and does not react to a communication protocol not provided by itself. The same applies to radio wave frequency, error correction method, encoding method, and compression method used in addition to the communication protocol.

FIG. 35 shows a flowchart of an example of multi-communication method means or communication method switching means.
It is assumed that the reader / writer device has three communication methods: an A communication method, a B communication method, and a C communication method. First, radio waves are transmitted by the A communication method (S31). If an IC tag equipped with the A communication system is present within the reach of radio waves, the IC tag returns a response to the reader / writer device using the A communication system. When the reader / writer device receives this response (S32 / YES), the reader / writer device continues to communicate with the A communication method to read or write predetermined information (S33). When a plurality of IC tags respond by this A communication method, communication is performed with a plurality of IC tags. When the communication by the A communication method is completed or when there is no response by the A communication method (S32 / NO), the radio wave by the B communication method is then transmitted (S319, as with the A communication method, the reader / writer). When the device receives this response (S35 / YES), it communicates with the B communication method (S36), and finally communicates with the C communication method (S37 to S39), so that the reader / writer device is equipped. Communicates with all communication methods.

  As described above, the reader / writer device includes the multi-communication method means or the communication method switching means, so that even if IC tags having various communication methods coexist, the information of the IC tag is read by one reader / writer device. Or write. Further, the IC tag may be provided with multi-communication method means or communication method switching means.

  An IC tag reader device for a shopping cart is attached to a shopping cart prepared by a store (may be equipped with a dedicated attachment means for attaching to the shopping cart, such as a hook portion, a mounting bracket, etc.) By communicating with the IC tag attached to the product put in the shopping cart by the customer, the information about the price of the product and other products is acquired, and the information acquired on the display device every time information about the product is acquired. indicate. In addition, the total price is displayed together with the name of the product in the shopping cart and other information. At this time, there are many scenes in which a product is usually placed in the shopping cart. However, since the product once put in the shopping cart may be taken out from the shopping cart, it is necessary to reflect the taken-out result on the display.

  As one method for that purpose, the IC tag reader means 1 may display the total amount at that time by communicating with the IC tag of the product in the shopping cart at certain time intervals. It is done. Further, in order to prevent erroneous reading of information on the IC tag, communication may be performed a plurality of times at a time, and correct information may be determined based on the plurality of reading results.

The IC tag reader means 1 can reduce the power consumption of the power source of the IC tag reader means 1 by outputting power radio waves required by the IC tag at regular intervals. It is also conceivable to make the interval for outputting the radio wave variable. For example, when the IC tag reader unit 1 is in the energy saving mode, the interval for outputting radio waves is lengthened (T1), and once the communication with the IC tag is performed, the communication mode is thereafter set, and the interval is shortened (T2). Further, T1 and T2 may be further multi-staged for finer control.
T1> T2 T1: Radio wave output interval in energy saving mode T2: Radio wave output interval in communication mode

  In addition, the IC tag reader means 1 may always output power radio waves required by the IC tag. This makes it possible to speed up the response to communicate with the IC tag, rather than outputting radio waves at regular intervals.

  In addition, by adding power to the power radio wave or data communication radio wave output from the IC tag reader device, it is possible to know the distance (position) from the IC tag reader device to the IC tag, that is, the distance (position) of the product. That is, for example, when considering communication in three levels (weak, normal, strong), when only the product A responds when communicating with the weakest radio wave, and then communicates with normal radio waves If only the A product and the B product respond, and then the A product, the B product, and the C product respond when they communicate with a strong radio wave, then the IC tag reader device sends the A product, the B product, and the C product. It turns out that the distance is separated in order. Therefore, it is known in advance that if the signal strength is strong, it will reach the area outside the shopping cart, and if the signal strength is normal, the signal will only reach the area inside the shopping cart. In this case (but not covering all areas of the shopping cart), the product C can be determined to be a product that is not in the shopping cart, that is, a product that happened to be near the shopping cart. It is possible to prevent erroneous reading of the tag reader device. In the above embodiment, the radio wave intensity has been described in three stages, but it is needless to say that the present invention is not limited to this.

  Further, as another embodiment using the strength of radio waves of the IC tag reader device, it is conceivable to receive information from an IC tag other than a product and display it. In other words, the strength of the radio wave, the information of the IC tag for advertisement (for sales promotion) installed in advance in the place where the shopping cart is currency (sales information, discount information, discount information, etc. of the day) Information to be notified to the customer) and the information is displayed on the display means. In this case, it is necessary to provide an IC tag distinguishing means for distinguishing the IC tag of the product in the shopping cart from the IC tag for advertisement. As a specific example, there is a method of distinguishing by the unique number of the IC tag. That is, since the unique number of the advertising IC tag can be known in advance, the radio wave of the IC tag reader device is strengthened to communicate with the IC tag, and the unique numbers of the plurality of IC tags acquired at that time are the unique numbers of the advertising IC tag. It is to compare how. As a result, if it is a unique number of the advertising IC tag, the information acquired at that time is displayed on the display device.

  As another method, predetermined information (title, information category, information item, etc.) included in the IC tag information is inspected to determine whether it is a product IC tag or an advertising IC tag. to decide. Another method is to apply the above-described method of determining whether an IC tag is in the shopping cart based on the strength of the radio wave. If the IC tag is determined to be outside the shopping cart, the IC tag is promoted. It is regarded as an IC tag for use.

  Further, as another embodiment using the strength of the radio waves of the IC tag reader device, it is conceivable to write information in the IC tag with a radio wave stronger than the radio wave intensity used for reading the IC tag. Alternatively, as another example, the radio wave used for writing information to the IC tag is made the same as the radio wave intensity at the time of reading, and the time to give the radio wave at the time of writing is longer than the time of giving the radio wave at the time of reading. It can also be lengthened. The purpose of the two embodiments is to solve the problem that more power is required for writing than for reading the IC tag. The strength of radio waves can be achieved by the strength of the current flowing through the antenna coil.

  Also, a plurality of IC tag reader means 1 are provided (not shown), the direction of the radio wave emitted by one IC tag reader means 1 is directed to the shopping cart (so-called directivity), and the radio wave emitted by the other IC tag reader means 1 For example, the direction may be directed to the upper side of the IC tag reader device. By doing so, the shopper can display the product information on the display unit of the IC tag reader device only by holding the product over the IC tag reader device without putting it in the shopping cart. In this case, it is not necessary to have a plurality of IC tag reader means 1. For example, a plurality of antenna portions may be provided, and the subsequent portions may be used in common by switching each time. Further, three or more IC tag reader means 1 may be provided.

  An IC tag reader device incorporating its own IC tag is also conceivable. The built-in IC tag stores information related to the IC tag reader device. Accordingly, when the IC tag reader device communicates with an IC tag other than itself, a problem such as time loss occurs due to communication with the IC tag of itself. In order to solve this problem, the IC tag reader device performs an access prohibition process on its own IC tag when it starts communication with another IC tag. Specifically, access-prohibited data is written into a predetermined storage area (an area where access prohibition is assigned) of the IC tag. Even if the IC tag receives radio waves from the IC tag reader device, it does not return a response if this access prohibition data is written, thereby preventing loss of access time due to communication with an unscheduled IC tag. . Further, when the IC tag reader device finishes communication with another IC tag, the IC tag reader device performs a process of canceling the access prohibition for the IC tag so that the other IC tag reader device can communicate with its own IC tag. To. The access prohibition process is performed when the IC tag reader device and the IC tag communication method are the same, and the access prohibition process may not be performed when the communication method is different.

  The total value calculation means 3 outputs total value information by calculating a total of a plurality of pieces of value information for each product acquired from the IC tag means attached to the product by the IC tag reader means 1, and calculates the total. Dedicated hardware may be used, or the CPU may calculate the total and store the result in the RAM. Here, a multi-read means for simultaneously reading a plurality of IC tags by one reader / writer device may be provided. As an example of the multi-read means, there is a FIFO means for communicating in order with respect to the IC tags entering the communication area of the antenna in order.

  A plurality of IC tags that have completed communication may exist in the communicable area of the reader / writer device by performing access prohibition processing, and once an IC tag subjected to access prohibition processing goes out of the area, it can communicate again. Is. There is also a multi-access means that can communicate with all IC tags even when a plurality of IC tags are simultaneously present in the antenna communication area.

  Another example is frequency hopping means. In this method, one channel is assigned to the communication channel from the reader / writer device to the IC tag, and a plurality of channels are assigned to the communication channel from the IC tag to the reader / writer device. When reading IC tag information from the reader / writer device, the IC tag generates a pseudo-random number with its own ID number as an initial value, determines a communication channel for response, and sends information to a plurality of channels simultaneously. is there.

  The settlement means 2 performs payment settlement based on the total value information output by the total value calculation means 3. As a payment settlement method, there are a prepaid method, a server method and the like which will be described later. As another method, the settlement means 2 may display the total value information on a display device that is a display means or display a message for prompting the settlement work to encourage the operator to perform the settlement work. The settlement means 2 may be constituted by dedicated hardware, or the CPU may perform payment settlement. When paying out payment, authentication may be performed by an authentication unit (not shown). Specific examples of the authentication means include a method of inputting a personal identification number or a password, and a method of comparing whether or not the user's fingerprint is used.

  The prepaid means 4 used in the prepaid method is a method in which payment settlement is completed by a predetermined method in advance and value information corresponding to the amount information paid by payment settlement is accumulated in the storage means. The predetermined method is to pay a certain fee to the depositing device (charging device) (usually cash is inserted, but you may pay with a credit card or other payable card) and it corresponds to the amount paid The value information to be transferred is transferred from the depositing device to the IC card and stored in the storage means. An IC card I / F or IC tag reader means 1 is used for connection to the depositing device.

  The settlement means 2 settles the payment by subtracting the total value information calculated by the total value calculation means 3 from the value information accumulated in the storage means by the prepaid means 4, that is, the accumulated value information. The accumulated value information obtained by subtracting the total value information is stored in the storage means. If the total value information is larger than the accumulated value information, payment cannot be settled. Alternatively, when a predetermined condition is met, payment may be settled even if the stored value information becomes negative.

  The predetermined condition includes a case where a deposit of a certain amount or more is in a predetermined financial institution, and the maximum minus amount may be set based on the deposit amount. In addition, a set value for the maximum minus may be set in the storage unit of the IC card so that a certain minus amount is allowed in advance.

  When minus accumulated value information is stored in the storage means by payment settlement, the minus amount can be settled by paying the minus fee to the depositing device. The prepaid means 4 may be configured by dedicated hardware, or the CPU may perform a prepaid operation using a RAM.

  With the server means used in the server system, money information corresponding to money is stored in the storage means, and payment can be settled based on the money information. This money information may be deposit information deposited in a financial institution, or prepaid information (payment information or charge information) that has been settled in advance. The server means is provided with communication means and performs payment settlement using communication.

  The payment settlement apparatus includes server communication means 5 for transmitting and receiving value information by communicating with server means. The settlement means 2 communicates with the server means by the server communication means 5 and performs payment settlement by subtracting the total value information from the money information stored in the server means. The money information with the total value information reduced is stored in the storage means of the server means. Here, when the total value information is larger than the money information, the payment cannot be settled. However, if the predetermined condition is met, the payment may be settled even if the money information becomes negative.

  The predetermined condition includes a case where a deposit of a certain amount or more is in a predetermined financial institution, and the maximum minus amount may be set based on the deposit amount. In addition, a set value for the maximum minus value may be set in the storage unit of the server means so that a certain minus value is allowed in advance.

  When minus money information is stored in the storage means by payment settlement, the minus amount can be settled by paying the minus fee. The server communication means 5 may be configured by dedicated hardware, or may be configured by the CPU controlling simple hardware. As a specific protocol used for the server communication means 5, a general-purpose protocol such as FTP or HTTP may be used, or a dedicated protocol may be used.

  The value information display means 6 displays the total value information on a display device that is a display means, and displays the accumulated value information accumulated in the prepaid means 4. Alternatively, in addition to the total value information, the value information of the product acquired at that time may be displayed, or may be displayed together with the total value information. Alternatively, the value information for each product may be listed and a value information list may be created and displayed. Further, a value information list may be created and displayed by associating the name of the product and other information with the value information. Further, the value information list may be stored in the storage means and transferred to another device so that it can be used by another device. The value information display means 6 may be configured by dedicated hardware, or may be configured by the CPU controlling simple hardware.

  The payment limit determination unit 7 determines whether there is a payment limit based on the total value information output by the total value calculation unit 3. When the prepaid means 4 is used, the payment limit judgment means 7 determines whether or not the payment limit is exceeded based on the accumulated value information accumulated in the prepaid means 4 and the total value information output by the total value calculation means 3. to decide. That is, the stored value information is compared with the total value information, and when the total value information is larger than the stored value information, it is determined that the payment limit amount is exceeded or the payment capability is exceeded. When the server means is used, the server communication means 5 communicates with the server means to acquire value information stored in the storage means of the server means. The payment limit determination means 7 determines whether or not the payment limit is exceeded based on the value information acquired from the server means and the total value information output by the total value calculation means 3. That is, the value information acquired from the server means is compared with the total value information, and when the total value information is larger than the value information, it is determined that the payment limit amount is exceeded or the payment capability is exceeded.

  As another method, there is a method using predetermined value information (the predetermined value information can be changed to any value at any time). That is, the predetermined value information determined in advance is compared with the total value information, and when the total value information is larger than the predetermined value information, it is determined that the payment limit amount is exceeded or the payment capability is exceeded. . If it is determined that the limit has been exceeded, a signal exceeding the payment limit is output. Further, a message notifying that the limit has been exceeded may be displayed on a display device as display means, or a warning sound may be sounded by sounding means (not shown). If it is determined that the limit has not been exceeded, a signal within the payment limit is output. Further, a message notifying that the limit has not been exceeded may be displayed on the display means, or a confirmation sound for notifying that may be generated. The payment limit determination means 7 may be configured by dedicated hardware, or may be configured by the CPU controlling simple hardware.

  FIG. 14 shows the configuration of the total value calculation means 3, the settlement means 2, the prepaid means 4, the server communication means 5, the value information display means 6, and the payment limit judgment means 7, but all these means are indispensable. Instead, they can be combined as appropriate. Each means of the total value calculation means 3, the payment means 2, the prepaid means 4, the server communication means 5, the value information display means 6, and the payment limit judgment means 7 may be constituted by dedicated hardware. Alternatively, the respective means may be realized by considering a balance between hardware and software, by configuring a part of the hardware and controlling the hardware by a control means using a CPU.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram of a mobile phone according to an embodiment of the present invention.
A description of the same parts as those in FIG. 14 is omitted. The handset is a so-called receiver for making a voice call, and includes a speaker 20 that outputs voice, a microphone 19 that inputs voice, and the like. The call circuit 18 sends out a voice signal input from a microphone or the like to a communication means, and outputs a voice signal input from the communication means to a speaker or the like. In general, a circuit for adjusting the sound volume by amplifying or attenuating the sound signal or improving the sound quality by changing the frequency characteristic of the sound signal is also included. Also, so-called sidetone control for controlling the sound wraparound from the transmitter to the receiver is generally performed in this portion.

  The communication means transmits and receives audio signals to and from the network side. In the case of a mobile phone, communication is performed with a base station using radio, but it may be communicated with a switching center by wire. Further, the IC tag value information list may be transmitted to another device by e-mail means, FTP means, or HTTP means.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram of an IP telephone as an embodiment of the present invention.
The description of the same part as in FIG. 15 is omitted. The handset is a so-called receiver for making a voice call, and includes a speaker that outputs voice, a microphone that inputs voice, and the like. The call circuit 18 sends out an audio signal input from a microphone or the like to the IP means 23 and outputs an audio signal input from the IP means 23 to a speaker or the like. In general, a circuit for adjusting the sound volume by amplifying or attenuating the sound signal or improving the sound quality by changing the frequency characteristic of the sound signal is also included. Also, so-called sidetone control for controlling the sound wraparound from the transmitter to the receiver is generally performed in this portion.

  In the call circuit 18, an analog audio signal input from the handset microphone is converted into a digital audio signal, and a digital audio signal input for output to the speaker is converted into an analog audio signal. The communication unit transmits and receives audio signals to and from the network side. Also, image data and product information are transmitted and received. In the case of a mobile phone, communication is performed with a base station using radio, but it may be communicated with a switching center by wire.

  The IP means 23 encodes and compresses the voice signal sent from the call circuit 18 if necessary. Next, the audio signal data is embedded in the IP packet for transmission and sequentially sent out to the line connection I / F means. Also, the audio signal data is taken out from the receiving IP packet inputted from the line connection I / F means, decoded and decompressed if necessary, and sent to the call circuit 18. The IP unit 23 embeds image data in a transmission IP packet and sequentially sends it out to the line connection I / F unit. Further, the image data is taken out from the receiving IP packet inputted from the line connection I / F means and outputted to the memory means and the image processing circuit 24. The IP means 23 assembles control IP packets for performing call control and sequentially sends them out to the line connection I / F means. Further, the control IP packet received from the line connection I / F means is disassembled.

  Such sending and receiving of the control IP packet may be configured by another means independent of the IP means 23. The operation control of the IP means 23 is performed by the CPU. The line connection I / F sends a transmission IP packet input from the IP means 23 to the connection line, while sending a reception packet input from the connection line to the IP means 23.

  When a general telephone network supplied by NTT or the like is used as a connection line, the line connection I / F includes an XDSL modem that mutually converts a digital signal and an analog signal. If the connection line is a LAN or the like, the line connection I / F is a LAN I / F (Ethernet (R), token ring, FTTH, wireless LAN, etc.). Further, a wireless I / F such as a mobile phone or PHS may be used. Further, at least one or more of the plurality of I / Fs may be provided.

  A protocol for communicating with the server means will be described. Protocols used in IP phones and IP videophones will be described, and cellular phones, PHS, Email, and HTTP protocols have been standardized and will not be described.

  The call setting means performs call setting using a standard call control protocol (SIP, H.323, MEGACO, HTTP, etc.) defined in the standard, and enables communication or a call.

FIG. 19 shows a SIP protocol stack.
As shown in FIG. 19, when SIP is used as a call / session control protocol, IP (Internet Protocol) is used in the network layer (network layer). Also, in this case, UDP (User Datagram Protocol), TCP (Transmission Control Protocol), or SCTP (Stream Control Transmission Protocol) is used in the Transport Layer (transport layer). In this case, SDP (Session Description Protocol) is used as a control information description protocol for describing the SIP message. In this case, RTP (Realtime Transport Protocol) is used as a video / audio transmission / reception protocol together with UDP (transport layer).

  FIG. 20 is a diagram showing the structure of a SIP control packet in a specific embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 20, the SIP control packet includes an IP header, a UDP (TCP) header, and a SIP message.

  FIG. 21 is a diagram showing the structure of a SIP data packet in a specific embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 21, the SIP data packet includes an IP header, a UDP header, an RTP header, and audio / image data.

  FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating the structure of a UDP datagram in a specific embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 22, the UDP datagram includes a transmission port number, a destination port number, a data length, a checksum, and data.

  FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating the structure of an IP datagram used in SIP according to a specific embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 23, the configuration of the IP packet includes version information, header length information, service type information, total length information, identifier (ID), flag information, fragment offset information, and lifetime. (TTL) information, protocol type information, header checksum information, transmission source address, destination address, option, padding, and data area.

  FIG. 24 shows a protocol diagram of a SIP communication model which is one of standard call control protocols. First, a request message called INVITE is sent from the calling side. INVITE is a session activation signal, and an attribute of the session that can be received by the calling party is indicated by SDP. Specifically, the reception condition (codec, port number, etc.) on the calling side and the transmission condition are presented. The called party receives INVITE and sends 180 RINGING to the calling party to notify that it is in the ringing state. The receiving condition (codec, port number, etc.) and the transmission condition on the called side may be presented by this 180 RINGING, but is usually presented by the next 200 OK. Next, 200 OK is transmitted to the calling side in order to notify that the called side is ready to talk. For this, the attributes of the session that can be received by the called party are shown in SDP. This 200 OK presents the reception condition (codec, port number, etc.) and transmission condition on the called side. Next, the calling party transmits an ACK to the called party, thereby negotiating attributes that can be used for communication. In the present invention, this is defined as the connection phase for convenience. Next, transfer of media (sound, image, video, etc.) is started. In the present invention, this data transfer period is defined as a data transmission / reception phase for convenience. When terminating the communication, the stop side sends a BYE signal to request the end of the communication, and the side receiving it transmits a 200 OK signal as a response to terminate the communication. In the present invention, this phase is defined as a cutting phase for convenience.

  A Web server provided with Web server means using these protocols and the Internet protocol is also conceivable. Web server means stores multiple ML (Markup Language) -based files (XML, HTML, SGML, XHTML, CHTML, HDML, DHTML, etc.) in the storage means, and sends files in response to client requests It is. This file contains money information. The communication device on the calling side makes a call to the Web server, establishes a call (SIP connection phase), and establishes communication connection. During connection (SIP data transmission / reception phase), the calling side transmits / receives an ML-based file to the called side using the HTTP protocol. The calling side includes a web browser means for displaying an ML-based file on the display unit.

  Communication devices include IC cards, shopping cart IC tag reader devices, IP phones, portable IP phones, and the like, and call setting protocols (such as PPP) and HTTP protocols operate on base station terminal wireless protocols. In addition, the call setting protocol and the HTTP protocol are also used in the infrared card I / F, Bluetooth I / F, wireless LAN I / F, or dedicated I / F provided in IC cards, shopping cart IC tag readers, IP phones, and portable IP phones. May be operated.

FIG. 25 shows a protocol diagram of another embodiment of the communication model of the present invention.
Standard call setup protocols are SIP, H. As represented by H.323, HTTP, MEGACO, PPP, etc., the specifications are widely open to general users and manufacturers, and the specifications of the local call setting means or the local call setting protocol are in principle. In general, it is not disclosed to general users, manufacturers, etc., and is disclosed only to manufacturers who develop or use it or a group composed of a plurality of manufacturers.

  In addition to the standard call setting protocol session attributes (which may be duplicated), the local call setting means also has its own session attributes such as reception conditions (codec, port number, etc.) and transmission conditions, Unique information related to the device that the standard call setting protocol does not have (functions installed in the device, information indicating the status of the device, information for changing the setting of the partner device, information for executing the function of the partner device, etc.) Is inserted into the IP packet and transmitted to the partner device. First, the calling terminal investigates the protocol provided in its own terminal when making a call, and starts communication with the protocol that is preferentially set as the first transmission protocol (in this example, the standard protocol is set) First, the calling party sends a SIP INVITE signal, which is a standard protocol, to the called party.

  Then, immediately after that, the local call setting means transmits an invite signal which is one of the local protocols (protocol switching means or multi-protocol means) (standard protocol signals are shown in capital letters, and the corresponding local protocol signals are shown in lower case letters. Represent). The called party receives both the INVITE signal and the invite signal (multiprotocol means) (multiple control signals can be received by sequentially storing them in the memory), selects the invite signal, and enters the calling state. 180 ringing is transmitted to the calling side to notify that it has become (protocol selection means) (Of course, in some cases, for example, when the standard protocol is preferentially set, the INVITE signal may be selected). The subsequent operation is the same as the protocol of FIG. 23 except that the standard protocol is replaced with the local protocol.

  Other unique reception conditions include, in addition to the above, the types of communication protocols equipped, those related to call setup methods, those related to negotiation, terminal communication capabilities, data compression methods, and digitization Everything related to communication conditions such as a method, a type of protocol, a type of IP packet used for it, an IP packet structure, an IP packet definition, a retransmission processing method, an error processing method, a security method, and the like can be considered. Alternatively, the local protocol invite signal may be transmitted before the standard protocol INVITE signal is transmitted, that is, from the beginning. The invite signal may be transmitted anywhere during the connection phase, the data transmission / reception phase, or the disconnection phase.

  For example, in the data transmission / reception phase, for example, when the user wants to switch to a high-quality method when the sound quality is poor or the image quality is not good, for example, an operation for switching the method from the input means of the terminal It is conceivable that an invite signal is sent out when an input is made. When the called party sends a 180 RINGING signal or 200 OK signal to the INVITE signal, which is a standard protocol, that is, after connection (negotiation is established) using the standard protocol, the period of the connection phase, data transmission / reception phase, or disconnection phase Invite signal can be received, and in that case, negotiation is performed again.

Specific information related to the device (functions installed in the device, information indicating the status of the device, information for changing the setting of the partner device, information for executing the function of the partner device, etc.)
・ Equipment functions: Web browser function, stream data playback function, videophone function, answering machine function, answering machine recording function, recording function, recording function, incoming memory, redial memory, phone book function, caller ID notification Function, caller name notification function, incoming call rejection function, incoming melody change function, transfer function, call waiting function, etc. Information indicating the status of the device: information on which an answering machine is set, information on which an answering machine is set, device Information indicating that there is a problem with the device, information indicating that the device is being used, information indicating that some function of the device is set, etc. Information for changing the setting of the other device: Setting or canceling the answering machine Command to set, cancel recording of answering machine, set to operate the function of the device Instructions for canceling, etc.-Information for executing the function of the partner device: Instructions for playing and transmitting the voice recorded in the answering machine, instructions for playing and sending the image recorded in the answering machine, and instructions for changing the incoming melody Etc.

  As another embodiment of the local call setting means, there is a method of including information used in the local protocol used in the local call setting means in the IP packet of the standard protocol used in the standard call setting means.

  FIG. 26 shows an example thereof. This is an example in which information (local protocol information) used in the local protocol used in the local call setting means is included in the SIP message part of the SIP control packet. Further, local protocol information may be placed in the option field of the IP header. Since a terminal that supports only the SIP protocol ignores the local part, call control is performed using SIP. However, a terminal that supports the local call setting means interprets the local part and, if necessary, the local protocol. Call control. That is, it is possible to shift from a standard session to a local session.

  FIG. 27 shows another embodiment. This is an embodiment in which information used in the local protocol used in the local call setting means is included in the portion where the voice and image data below the RTP header of the SIP data packet is placed. Further, local protocol information may be placed in the option field of the IP header. Since a terminal that supports only the SIP protocol ignores the local part, call control is performed using SIP. However, a terminal that supports the local call setting means interprets the local part and, if necessary, the local protocol. Call control. That is, it is possible to shift from a standard session to a local session.

  Since the terminal supporting the unique local protocol recognizes in advance which part of the IP packet contains the local protocol information, the local protocol mounting form can be arbitrarily configured. I can do it. In general, an IP terminal is provided with both protocols used on the calling side and the called side so that it can be a calling side and a called side. Further, it is possible to display on the display section whether the session is started with the standard protocol or the session is started with the original protocol. For example, “SIP”, “H.323”, “unique method”, and the like are displayed. By viewing this, the user can know the state of communication or the functions that can be used. It is also possible to display functions that can be used depending on the protocol used for connection. Further, when making a call, if it is not known which protocol the counterpart device is equipped with, it is possible to sequentially send INVITE or invite signals of a plurality of protocols or all protocols equipped with the calling terminal. .

  The called party can select one of the plurality of protocols and send back only one response signal corresponding to the selected protocol. Alternatively, a plurality of protocols can be selected from a plurality of protocols, and a plurality of response signals corresponding to the selected plurality of protocols can be returned. In this case, the calling party can select a protocol with a high priority.

  It is also conceivable that a program (for example, an application program) such as a binary data program or a source program is included in the local protocol signal and transmitted to the counterpart device. In this case, when the apparatus that receives the signal detects a program included in the protocol signal, the apparatus separates it from the protocol signal and stores it in the memory means. In some cases, the program is started to execute a certain work or an instruction included in the next protocol signal from the partner apparatus.

  As a specific example, a program is inserted into the SIP message of the invite signal and transmitted to the called device. The called device checks the SIP message of the received invite signal, and if it detects a program, it stores it in the memory means. Next, the program is made to stand by by starting the program (the next work can be quickly executed by making it wait). The instruction information including the SIP message of the next ack signal is received, and the instruction is executed by the program. Conversely, the called party may insert a program into the 180 ringing or 200 ok signal and transmit it to the calling party, and execute the program received at the calling party. As a program, a multi-platform program that is not influenced by the execution environment, such as JAVA (R), is suitable, but the program is not limited to this. The local call setting means may include a plurality of call setting protocols.

  By providing the local call setting means in this way, functions other than the functions that can be used by the standard call setting means can be used, and convenience is improved. In addition, since the local call setting means can be created and implemented independently by the manufacturer, there is an advantage that the specifications can be determined without receiving various restrictions.

  Therefore, local call setting means can be used between products of the same manufacturer, or between products of manufacturers not belonging to the same manufacturer but belonging to the same group (for example, communication groups formed by gathering different manufacturers). However, it is not limited to this (there is a way of use like a de facto standard).

FIG. 17 is a block diagram of a mobile phone with a TV receiver according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The description of the same part as in FIG. 15 is omitted. The camera converts a product (photographing object) into image data. Specifically, a CCD 26 or the like that is an image sensor is used. The CCD 26 receives an optical signal from a product with a light receiving element, converts it into an analog electric signal, and outputs it. The image processing circuit 24 receives the analog electric signal output from the CCD 26 and A / D converts it to obtain digital image data. Further, image processing (density conversion, filtering, optimization processing, enlargement / reduction, compression / decompression, etc.) is performed on the digital image data. The processed image data is stored in the memory means 15. The image display unit displays the image data image-processed by the image processing circuit 24 on the image display means 25 such as a liquid crystal screen (plasma display, CRT, etc.). The TV receiving means includes a TV antenna, a detection unit, and a tuner unit, receives TV broadcast radio waves, and outputs a TV image signal. The TV image signal is input to the image processing means, subjected to predetermined image processing, and then stored in the frame memory 27. The image data stored in the frame memory 27 is output to the image display means 25, and a TV image is displayed. The The image data stored in the frame memory 27 can be handled in the same manner as the image information obtained by the photographing means by storing the image data in a storage medium.

  In the case of a mobile phone, a liquid crystal display or the like is used as a display for displaying an image, but when used as a screen of a mobile phone, it is usually used in a vertically long screen display. However, when used as a TV screen, the TV screen is usually horizontally long, so it is convenient to use it horizontally. Therefore, the screen is rotated 90 degrees so that it is used in a portrait orientation when used as a mobile phone and in a landscape orientation when used as a TV receiver. FIGS. 28A and 28B show a case where the display screen is set to the right and a case where the display screen is set to the left, respectively.

  On the other hand, as a mobile phone, a folding or rotating type is often used. In this case, a button such as a numeric keypad is used to open the display unit or rotate the screen so that the display screen can be viewed horizontally. There is a problem that the landscape screen is turned upside down depending on whether the grip is placed with the left hand or the right hand. Alternatively, a request to switch the top and bottom of the screen depending on the position of the button regardless of the folding type or the rotating type may be considered. There is also a desire to direct the position of the antenna for TV reception either up and down or left and right. Therefore, a horizontally long screen up / down switching means (rotating unit 40 in this embodiment) is provided so that the screen does not turn upside down with either hand. FIG. 28C shows a case where the display screen is turned to the right by the rotation unit 40, and FIG. 28D shows a case where the display screen is turned to the left by the rotation unit 40.

  In addition, as shown in FIGS. 29A and 29B, the top and bottom of the vertically long screen may be switched. As a specific example, the horizontally long screen up / down switching means is realized by writing the TV image signal upside down when the image processing means writes the TV image signal to the frame memory 27. Alternatively, the image processing means is realized by reading the TV image signal from the frame memory 27 so that the reading order is reversed upside down. Screen up / down switching is performed by an instruction from the operation input unit. Switching between portrait and landscape is automatically performed by portrait and landscape automatic switching means. The portrait / landscape automatic switching means uses the display screen in portrait orientation when used as a mobile phone, and landscape orientation when used as a TV receiver. Which is used is determined by whether or not there is an operation input indicating use as a TV receiver.

  The mobile phone device further comprises an up / down detection means for detecting which is up or down, and the screen up / down switching means automatically moves the screen up / down according to the detection result output by the up / down detection means. It is also conceivable to set switching. The vertical detection means is realized by, for example, gravity detection means for detecting the direction of gravity. A gyro device can also be applied to the vertical detection means. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the screen from being turned upside down even when the mobile phone is held with the right hand or the left hand.

  Further, in order to save energy, a conventional mobile phone switches off the display screen or the backlight when there is no operation input for a predetermined time. However, the display screen or the backlight is also displayed when the TV screen is displayed. It is a malfunction when the backlight goes off. Therefore, when the TV screen is displayed, that is, when the TV is used as a TV receiver, the energy saving control means does not turn off the display screen or the backlight, or the first predetermined time. When there is no operation input during the period, the display screen or backlight is turned off, and when it is not used as a TV receiver, the display screen or backlight is turned off when there is no operation input for the second predetermined time. To control. Usually, the first predetermined time is set longer than the second predetermined time.

  The energy saving control means includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, a clock or a counter, a display OFF circuit, or a backlight OFF circuit. Thereby, when using as a TV receiver, it can prevent shifting to an energy saving mode.

  Recently, there is a free call service that allows you to make free calls as a charge service for mobile phone companies, and a service that allows you to carry over unused call charges to the next month has also started. However, there is an inconvenience that it is impossible to know how much of the free call charge balance remains until an invoice is sent. In order to solve this problem, the current balance of the charge that can be made free of charge is displayed on the display unit of the apparatus that is making a call.

  First, when a telephone call is started, the device inquires the base station of the free call charge balance using a protocol for inquiring the free call charge balance. Next, the free fee balance data sequentially transmitted from the base station is sequentially displayed on the display device. The base station or the server device handling the balance data transmits the balance data while reducing the balance data according to the call time. Further, based on the balance data transmitted from the base station first, the apparatus itself may calculate and display the free call charge balance according to the call time. Furthermore, it may be displayed not only during a call but also during a non-call or on a waiting screen.

  FIG. 34 is an apparatus in which the IC tag reader means 1, total value calculation means 3, settlement means 2, prepaid means 4 (server communication means 5), value information display means 6, and payment limit judgment means 7 are deleted from FIG. The other means are the same as in FIG. The purpose is to improve the usability of a mobile phone capable of receiving TV.

  The meaning of the system of the payment settlement apparatus of the present invention is that the present invention may be composed of only one apparatus or may be composed of two or more apparatuses.

  As mentioned above, IC cards, IC tag reader devices for shopping carts, mobile phones, IP phones, IP videophones have been mentioned as examples, but other communication terminal devices include IP phones, IP terminal devices, and general subscriptions using a wireless LAN. There are terminal devices having communication functions such as a personal phone, a computer with a communication function, a mobile phone, a PHS, and a PDA, which can be implemented using a communication protocol that can be used by each communication terminal device. Since the configuration of each communication terminal apparatus is known, the block diagram is not shown, but the means according to the features of the present invention is provided in the same manner as in the above embodiment.

  In addition, “˜means” which is described in the text and not particularly shown in the block diagram is configured by dedicated hardware, or configured by CPU, ROM, RAM and some hardware. It is.

  In addition, the above embodiments and each configuration can be appropriately combined as long as they have the features of the present invention, and other embodiments and configurations not directly mentioned in one embodiment are also applicable.

  In the present invention, when there are a plurality of elements (configurations), the number of elements is not limited to the number of elements described in this embodiment.

Therefore, according to the embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to eliminate the need for a device exclusively for settlement, improve the usability and convenience of the IC tag and the IC tag reader device, and perform payment settlement easily and quickly without using cash. Can do.
In addition, the total amount to be paid can be known in real time, and it can be determined whether or not it can be paid.
Further, it is possible to prevent erroneous settlement due to erroneous reading of the IC tag reader device.
In addition, settlement can be performed with another dedicated device.
In addition, the total amount can be displayed and payment can be settled using only an IC card, a portable terminal, a small display device, or the like.

  As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention was described, it is not limited to the said Example, A various deformation | transformation is possible in the range which does not deviate from the summary.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the payment account settlement apparatus which is Example 1 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the payment account settlement apparatus which is Example 2 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the payment account settlement apparatus which is Example 4 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the payment account settlement apparatus which is Example 5 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the payment account settlement apparatus which is Example 6 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the payment account settlement apparatus which is Example 7 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the payment account settlement apparatus which is Example 8 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the payment account settlement apparatus which is Example 9 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the payment account settlement apparatus which is Example 10 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the payment account settlement apparatus which is Example 11 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the payment account settlement apparatus which is Example 12 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the payment account settlement apparatus which is Example 13 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the payment account settlement apparatus which is Example 14 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the IC card based on the Example of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the portable terminal which concerns on the Example of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the IP telephone based on the Example of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the mobile telephone with a TV receiver which concerns on the Example of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the IC tag which concerns on the Example of this invention, and a reader apparatus. It is a figure which shows the protocol stack of SIP which concerns on the Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the packet for SIP control based on the Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the packet for SIP data based on the Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows the UDP datagram based on the Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows the IP datagram which concerns on the Example of this invention. It is a sequence diagram which shows the communication of SIP which concerns on the Example of this invention. It is a sequence diagram which shows the protocol which concerns on the Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the packet for control which concerns on the Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the packet for data which concerns on the Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows the external appearance of the portable terminal which concerns on the Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows the external appearance of the portable terminal which concerns on the Example of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the processing operation which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the processing operation which concerns on Example 2 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the payment account settlement apparatus which is Example 3 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the payment account settlement apparatus which is Example 15 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the mobile telephone with a TV receiver which concerns on the Example of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the processing operation of the multi-communication system based on the Example of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the processing operation which concerns on Example 4 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the processing operation which concerns on Example 8 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the processing operation which concerns on Example 9 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the processing operation which concerns on Example 10 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the processing operation which concerns on Example 11 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the processing operation which concerns on Example 12 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the processing operation which concerns on Example 13 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the processing operation which concerns on Example 14 of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 IC tag reader means 2 Settlement means 3 Total value calculation means 4 Prepaid means 5 Server communication means 6 Value information display means 7 Payment limit (capability) judgment means 8 First IC tag reader means 9 Second IC tag reader means 10 Total value comparison Means 11 First total value comparison means 12 Second total value comparison means 13 CPU
14 ROM
15 RAM (memory means)
16 Operation input / display unit 17 IC card I / F
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 18 Call circuit 19 Microphone part 20 Speaker part 21 Communication means 22 Line connection I / F means 23 IP means 24 Image processing circuit 25 Image display means 26 Imaging means (CCD)
27 Frame memory 28 Wireless communication means 29 TV reception means 30 Pre-Baid connection I / F means 31 Settlement connection I / F means 32 Value information transmission means 33 Control circuit 34 Wireless transmission part 35 Wireless reception part

Claims (18)

IC tag reader means for communicating with the IC tag;
A total value calculation means for calculating and outputting the total value;
And a checkout means to checkout the payment,
The IC tag reader means communicates with one or more IC tags to acquire value information stored in each of the IC tags,
The total value calculation means outputs the total value information by summing up one or more of the value information acquired by the IC tag means,
The payment settlement apparatus, wherein the settlement unit performs payment settlement based on the total value information. It further comprises a prepaid means for accumulating value information corresponding to the amount information paid in advance,
2. The payment settlement apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the settlement means performs payment settlement by subtracting the total value information from accumulated value information accumulated in the prepaid means. A prepaid connection I / F means for connecting to a prepaid means for accumulating value information corresponding to the amount information paid in advance;
The settlement means transmits the total value information to the prepaid means via the prepaid connection I / F means, and subtracts the total value information from the accumulated value information accumulated in the prepaid means, thereby adjusting the payment. The payment settlement apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: It further comprises server communication means for transmitting and receiving information by communicating with the server means,
2. The payment settlement apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the settlement means settles the payment by subtracting the total value information from the value information stored in the server means by the server communication means. IC tag reader means for communicating with the IC tag;
A total value calculation means for calculating and outputting the total value;
A value information display means for displaying the value information,
The IC tag reader means communicates with one or more IC tags to acquire value information stored in the IC tags,
The total value calculation means outputs the total value information by totaling the acquired one or more pieces of the value information,
The payment information settlement device, wherein the value information display means displays the total value information. It further comprises a prepaid means for accumulating value information corresponding to the amount information paid in advance,
6. The payment settlement apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the value information display means displays the total value information and the accumulated value information accumulated in the prepaid means. It further comprises server communication means for transmitting and receiving information by communicating with the server means,
6. The payment settlement apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the value information display means displays the total value information and also the value information stored in the server means acquired by the server communication means. IC tag reader means for communicating with the IC tag;
A total value calculation means for calculating and outputting the total value;
A payment limit judging means for judging whether it is a payment limit,
The IC tag reader means communicates with one or more IC tags to acquire value information stored in the IC tags,
The total value calculation means outputs the total value information by totaling the acquired one or more pieces of the value information,
The payment settlement apparatus, wherein the payment limit determination means determines whether or not a payment limit is exceeded based on the total value information. It further comprises a prepaid means for accumulating value information corresponding to the amount information paid in advance,
9. The payment settlement apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the payment limit determination means determines whether or not a payment limit is exceeded based on the accumulated value information accumulated in the prepaid means and the total value information. It further comprises server communication means for transmitting and receiving information by communicating with the server means,
Obtaining value information stored in the server means by the server communication means;
9. The payment settlement apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the payment limit determination means determines whether or not a payment limit is exceeded based on the value information and the total value information. A first IC tag reader means and a second IC tag reader means for communicating with the IC tag;
A first total value calculating means and a second total value calculating means for calculating and outputting the total value;
A total value comparison means for comparing the total value,
The first IC tag reader means communicates with one or more IC tags to acquire value information stored in the IC tags,
The first total value calculation means outputs the first total value information by summing the acquired one or more pieces of the value information,
The second IC tag reader means communicates with one or more IC tags to acquire value information stored in the IC tags,
The second total value calculation means outputs the second total value information by summing the acquired one or more pieces of the value information,
The total value comparison means compares the first total value information and the second total value information, and when the first total value information and the second total value information are different, a difference signal is output. A payment settlement apparatus characterized by outputting. It further includes a checkout means for paying the payment,
The total value comparison means compares the first total value information and the second total value information, and when the first total value information and the second total value information match,
12. The payment settlement apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the settlement unit performs payment settlement based on the total value information. It further comprises a prepaid means for accumulating the amount information that has been paid in advance,
12. The payment settlement apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the settlement means performs payment settlement by subtracting the total value information from accumulated value information accumulated in the prepaid means. It further comprises server communication means for transmitting and receiving information by communicating with the server means,
12. The payment settlement apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the settlement means settles the payment by subtracting the total value information from the value information stored in the server means by the server communication means. IC tag reader means for communicating with the IC tag;
A total value calculation means for calculating and outputting the total value;
Value information display means for displaying value information;
A value information transmitting means for transmitting value information; and a payment connection I / F means for connecting to the payment means;
The value information transmission unit transmits the value information acquired by the IC tag reader unit or the total value information output by the total value calculation unit to the settlement unit via the settlement connection I / F unit. Payment settlement device.   The payment settlement apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the payment settlement apparatus is a small display device.   The payment settlement apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the payment settlement apparatus is an IC card.   The payment settlement apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the payment settlement apparatus is a mobile terminal.

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