JP2004032119A - Method of transmitting image data, image reader, pos terminal, and electronic payment system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To rapidly read image data and reliably transmit the data to a terminal computer 30 without depending on the environment of the computer 30. <P>SOLUTION: The computer 30 designates an identification number, and instructs an image reader 140 (14) to read the image data. The image reader 140 reads the image data according to the instruction, and stores the data in the image reader so as to correspond to the identification number. After that, the image reader 140 transmits the image data corresponding to the identification number designated by the computer 30 to the computer 30. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a method of transmitting image data for transmitting a plurality of image data read by an image reading device to a host computer, an image reading device, a POS terminal, and an electronic payment system.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, in the United States and the like, a payment system using a check (check) such as a personal check as shown in FIG. 9 has been widely used. In particular, in recent years, the payment processing has been rapidly and safely performed by transmitting and receiving image data obtained by scanning the check C via a network by using an electronic payment system in which the payment system is digitized.
[0003]
As shown in FIG. 10, the electronic payment system 201 includes a user 211 using the check C, a store (POS terminal) 212 using the check C, a ticket issuing bank 213 of the check C, and a transaction between the store 212. The settlement processing server 215 is configured by a bank 214 and a settlement processing server 215 that performs settlement processing of the check C. The settlement processing server 215 is connected to the user 211, the store 212, the check issuing bank 213, and the store transaction bank 214 via the network 220. ing.
[0004]
As a method of using the check C, first, the user 211 presents the check C to the store side at the time of settlement. As shown in FIG. 9, user identification information 251 for identifying the user 211 and its bank account is printed in advance on the surface of the check C with magnetic ink, and the store can read this with a magnetic head or the like. To determine the validity of the check C. The determination of the validity of the check C is performed by transferring the information read by the store to the payment processing server 215 and transmitting the result of determining whether the information is valid in the payment processing server 215 to the store.
[0005]
When the validity of the check C is confirmed, the amount information 252, the store information 253, and the endorsement information 255 are entered in the check C by the operator (the cashier), and the signature information (signature) 256 is entered by the user 211. Is done. The store reads the completed check C with a scanner and stores the image data in the terminal computer (POS terminal) together with the user identification information 251 and the price information 252 and the store information 253 read with a magnetic head or the like. At the same time, it is stored and transmitted to the settlement processing server 215.
[0006]
The settlement processing server 215 performs monetary settlement between the store transaction bank 214 and the check issuing bank 213 based on the transmitted image data, user identification information 251, amount information 252, and store information 253. Further, the payment processing server 215 transmits the image data to the user 211 to report that the payment processing has been performed. As described above, the electronic payment system 201 can omit the exchange of the check itself by transmitting and receiving the image data, so that the payment processing can be performed quickly and safely.
[0007]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
By the way, when trying to adopt the electronic payment system 201 in each store 212, the environment of a terminal computer that stores (stores) and manages image data becomes a problem. That is, after the image data is read by the scanner, the image data is transferred to the terminal computer and stored. However, in the case of the terminal computer assuming a low-speed interface, it takes time to transfer and store the image data. I will. Therefore, in the store 212 that uses such a low-performance terminal computer, in the actual processing, it is sufficiently assumed that the customer is kept waiting at the time of liquidation, so that it is difficult to adopt the electronic settlement system 201. there were.
[0008]
Therefore, the present invention provides an image data transmission method, an image reading device, a POS terminal, and an electronic payment system that can quickly read image data and reliably transmit the image data to the terminal computer without depending on the environment of the terminal computer. The purpose is to provide.
[0009]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
An image data transmission method according to the present invention is a method for transmitting image data in which a plurality of image data read by an image reading device is transmitted to a host computer, wherein the host computer specifies an identification number and transmits the image data to the image reading device. A reading instructing step of instructing reading of image data, an image data storing step of reading the image data by the image reading device, storing the image data in the image reading device in association with the identification number, and an image stored in the image reading device. And transmitting an image data corresponding to the identification number designated by the host computer to the host computer among the data.
[0010]
The image reading apparatus of the present invention is an image reading apparatus that transmits a plurality of read image data to a host computer. The image reading apparatus transmits an instruction to read image data and information about an identification number to be given to the image data from the host computer. Reading instruction obtaining means for obtaining, image data reading means for reading image data in accordance with an instruction of the host computer, and storing the image data in association with an identification number; and image data stored in the image data storing means, designated by the host computer. Image data transmitting means for transmitting image data corresponding to the identification number to the host computer.
[0011]
According to these configurations, the read image data is temporarily stored in the image reading device, and is transmitted in accordance with an instruction from the host computer. Therefore, the image data is reliably transmitted to the host computer regardless of the environment of the host computer. be able to. In addition, since the time required for data transmission from the image reading device and storage (storing) in the host computer does not affect the image data reading time, when a host computer that uses a low-speed interface is used. Even if there is, image data can be read quickly. Further, since the image data is stored in the image reading device with the identification number specified by the host computer, and the image data corresponding to the identification number specified by the host computer is transmitted from the image data. Image data can be transmitted more reliably.
[0012]
In this case, the image data transmitting step preferably transmits the image data when the host computer is idle.
[0013]
In this case, it is preferable that the image data transmitting means transmits the image data when the host computer is idle.
[0014]
According to these configurations, since the image data is transmitted when the host computer is idle, the image data can be transmitted quickly without imposing a burden on the host computer.
[0015]
In these cases, the image data storing step preferably stores the image data in a data format specified by the host computer.
[0016]
In these cases, the image data storage means preferably stores the image data in a data format specified by the host computer.
[0017]
According to these configurations, the image data can be stored in the image reading device in a data format that can be easily processed by the host computer.
[0018]
In these cases, the image data transmitting step involves duplicating the image data corresponding to the designated identification number, transmitting the duplicated image data to the host computer, transmitting all the image data in the image reading device, and then copying all the images to be copied. It is preferable that the method further includes a batch data deletion step of collectively deleting data.
[0019]
In these cases, the image data transmitting means duplicates the image data corresponding to the designated identification number and transmits the duplicated image data to the host computer, and after transmitting all the image data in the image reading device, It is preferable to further include a batch data deletion unit that collectively deletes the image data.
[0020]
According to these configurations, the image reading apparatus duplicates the image data corresponding to the specified identification number and transmits the duplicated image data to the host computer. Therefore, even if the image data is damaged during transmission, data loss Can be avoided. In addition, after all image data in the image reading device is transmitted, all the image data to be copied is deleted at once, so that the storage medium in the host computer fails until all the image data is transmitted. Even if the data is lost, data loss can be avoided, and the storage capacity in the image reading device can be secured after all the image data has been transmitted.
[0021]
In these cases, the image data transmitting step includes a step of duplicating the image data corresponding to the designated identification number and transmitting the duplicated image data to the host computer, and after transmitting the image data, deleting the image data from which the image data is to be duplicated. It is preferable to further include a data deletion step.
[0022]
In these cases, the image data transmitting means duplicates the image data corresponding to the specified identification number and transmits the duplicated image data to the host computer, and after transmitting the image data, deletes the image data from which the image data is duplicated. It is preferable that the method further includes a partial data deleting step.
[0023]
According to these configurations, the image reading apparatus duplicates the image data corresponding to the specified identification number and transmits the duplicated image data to the host computer. Therefore, even if the image data is damaged during transmission, data loss Can be avoided. Further, after the transmission of the image data, the image data serving as the copy source of the image data is deleted each time, so that the storage capacity in the image reading device can always be secured.
[0024]
In these cases, it is preferable that the image reading device and the host computer are connected via a connector.
[0025]
In these cases, it is preferable to further include a connector for connecting to a host computer.
[0026]
According to these configurations, the image reading device and the host computer can be easily connected.
[0027]
A POS terminal according to the present invention includes the image reading device according to any one of the above, and a terminal computer functioning as a host computer.
[0028]
According to this configuration, it is possible to provide a POS terminal that can quickly read image data and reliably store and manage the image data without depending on the environment of the terminal computer.
[0029]
In these cases, the host computer may further include an accompanying information acquiring step of acquiring accompanying information associated with the image data, and an accompanying information storing step of storing the associated information and the identification number in the host computer in association with each other. preferable.
[0030]
In these cases, the terminal computer further includes additional information obtaining means for obtaining additional information accompanying the image data, and additional information storage means for storing the additional information and the identification number in the terminal computer in association with each other. Is preferred.
[0031]
According to these configurations, since the accompanying information associated with the image data and the identification number are stored in the host computer (terminal computer) in association with each other, when the host computer specifies the image data to be transmitted, Image data can be easily determined based on the information. Further, after the transmission of the image data, the grouping of the image data and the data management such as the saw can be easily performed based on the accompanying information.
[0032]
In this case, it is preferable that the image data is data obtained by reading the check, and that the accompanying information includes user identification information printed in advance on the check.
[0033]
According to this configuration, the user identification information that is printed in advance in the check is included as the accompanying information, so that it is possible to quickly respond to inquiries from the user after using the check, which can be used for data management. .
[0034]
In this case, it is preferable that the apparatus further includes a user identification information reading device that reads the user identification information, and the accompanying information acquisition unit acquires the user identification information transmitted from the user identification information reading device to the terminal computer.
[0035]
According to this configuration, since the user identification information is read by the user identification information reading device and transmitted to the terminal computer, the terminal computer can perform data management based on the transmitted user identification information. it can. In addition, since it is possible to save the operator from inputting user identification information, it is possible to eliminate management mistakes (such as assigning an incorrect identification number) due to an operator's input error.
[0036]
In this case, the accompanying information includes price information and store information to be printed for the check, and the terminal computer preferably includes input means for inputting the price information and the store information.
[0037]
According to this configuration, it is possible to input the price information and the store information to be printed on the check, so that the operator or the user can save the trouble of writing by hand. Further, since the accompanying information includes the price information and the store information, these can be used for data management.
[0038]
An electronic payment system according to the present invention is connected to the POS terminal described above, a customer terminal used by a check user, and the POS terminal and the customer terminal via a network, and operates and manages a payment process based on the check. And a settlement processing server.
[0039]
According to this configuration, it is possible to adopt an electronic payment system that can quickly and safely perform a payment process even in a store that uses a terminal computer with low performance.
[0040]
In this case, it is preferable that the POS terminal transmits, to the settlement processing server, check information in which the user identification information, the amount information, the store information, and the image data are associated with each other.
[0041]
According to this configuration, all the information (user identification information, amount information, store information, and image data) necessary for the check settlement processing is associated and transmitted to the settlement processing server as check information. Can quickly perform a settlement process based on this check information.
[0042]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, a method for transmitting image data, an image reading device, a POS terminal, and an electronic payment system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present invention provides a storage medium (flash ROM) in an image reading device (scanner), temporarily stores read image data in the storage medium, and transmits the read image data when the host computer (terminal computer) is idle. Even when a host computer or interface with low performance is used, quick image reading and reliable data transmission can be realized. In addition, an electronic payment system that performs a payment process without transmitting and receiving the check itself by transmitting and receiving image data obtained by reading a check (a personal check, a bank check, and the like) with an image reading device depends on the environment of the terminal computer. It can be adopted without. Further, the present invention transmits the storage result report information relating to the result of storing the image data read by the image reading device to the storage medium to the terminal computer, and performs image processing according to the processing method determined by the terminal computer based on the storage result report information. Since data processing is performed, appropriate processing can be performed even when a failure such as a failure or insufficient storage capacity occurs in the storage medium.
[0043]
Therefore, hereinafter, a POS terminal used in a restaurant such as a restaurant or a retail store, and an image reading device, a magnetic reading device (MICR; Magnetic InkCharacter Reader) and a printing device applied to the POS terminal (the processing targets are all checked) In addition to the above, description will be made by taking a multifunction processing device having the function of a receipt printing device as an example. In addition, an electronic payment system including a POS terminal will be described.
[0044]
As shown in FIG. 1, a POS terminal 10 according to the present invention includes a terminal computer (host computer) 30 for calculating the settlement amount after an amount or the like is input by an operator, and a compound processing device 40 for performing various processes related to check C. It is constituted by. The terminal computer 30 includes a main body case 31, a keyboard 32 for inputting a product code and a price, a display 33 for displaying product information and a price, a card reader 34 for reading a credit card, a membership card, and the like, and a cash (cash). And a cash drawer 35 in which is stored, and is connected to the POS server 60 via a network 65.
[0045]
The POS server 60 is connected to a plurality of POS terminals 10 (only three are shown) and manages input information input to the POS terminals 10. Specifically, input information input to the POS terminal 10 is obtained, and based on this, information about a product name and a price stored in advance is extracted. Then, based on the extracted information, it generates product data used for printing on a receipt 36 described later and displaying on the display 33, and transmits the generated product data to the POS terminal 10. The POS terminal 10 transmits print data to be printed on the receipt 36 to the multifunction device 40 and generates product information to be displayed on the display 33 based on the product data transmitted from the POS server 60.
[0046]
On the other hand, the multifunction device 40 is connected to the terminal computer 30 via a connector (not shown), and has a resin outer cover 41. In addition, an insertion port 43 for manually inserting the check C in a substantially horizontal direction is formed on the front surface thereof, and a discharge port 44 for discharging the check C is formed on the upper surface thereof. The exterior cover 41 has a rear opening / closing lid 52 on the upper surface rear side, and the opening / closing lid 52 is operated by operating a slide-type lock button 53 disposed at the upper end of the side surface of the exterior cover 41. The lid can be opened upward around the end.
[0047]
Further, as described above, the multifunction device 40 has the functions of the image reading device 140, the magnetic reading device 130, and the printing device 120 (see FIG. 3), reads the image of the check C, and prints the user Various processes related to the check C, such as reading of the specific information (MICR code) 251 and printing of the money information 252 and the store information 253 to the check C (see FIG. 9), can be performed by one unit. Therefore, the POS terminal 10 capable of performing the check C can be realized only by connecting the multifunction device 40 to the terminal computer 30.
[0048]
Further, the multifunction device 40 has the function of a receipt printing device that prints on the receipt 36 at the rear thereof (receipt printing unit 51). At the rear of the multifunction device 40, a receipt storage unit for storing the receipt paper wound in a roll shape, a receipt printing unit for performing printing on the receipt 36, and the receipt 36 are fed out and conveyed to the receipt printing unit. And a receipt transport mechanism for discharging the receipt 36 from a receipt discharge port 54 formed on the upper surface of the exterior cover. Since the configuration of such a receipt printing unit 51 can use the configuration of a general receipt printer, detailed description and illustration are omitted, and description is omitted in the following description.
[0049]
FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of the inside of the multifunction device 40. As shown here, the multifunction device 40 includes a print head 12, a magnetic head 13, and a scanner from the insertion port 43 along the transport path 21. The check C is carried by the drive rollers 15a and 15b and the auxiliary roller 16. Note that the positional relationship and the order of the print head 12, the magnetic head 13, and the scanner 14 need not be as described above.
[0050]
In the vicinity of the discharge port 44, a branch valve 18 and a pair of transfer rollers 17a and 17b for turning the check C upside down and returning it to the conveyance path 21 and discharging the check C to the discharge port 44 are provided. Although details will be described later, the reverse of the check C is for printing and reading the endorsement information of the check C (see FIG. 9).
[0051]
The branch valve 18 is normally biased by a biasing device (not shown) to open the return path 22, and when the tip of the check C transported from the upstream side of the transport path 21 abuts on the branch valve 18, the branch valve is switched. The tip 18 a of the 18 opens, and the check C is conveyed toward the discharge port 44. Here, when the check C is normally discharged, the transport rollers 17a and 17b are rotated in the forward direction (the direction of the arrow), and the check C is discharged from the discharge port 44. On the other hand, when the check C is rotated back and forth and returned to the transport path 21, when the rear end of the check C passes through the branch valve 18, the transport rollers 17 a and 17 b are rotated in the reverse direction to open the return path. The check C, which has been turned upside down, is returned to the transport path 21 via the transfer path 22. The check C returned to the transport path 21 is processed by the print head 12 and the scanner 14, and then discharged from the discharge port 44.
[0052]
Here, a control configuration of the multifunction device 40 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the multifunction device 40 has the input / output interface 11, and inputs print information (money information 252 and store information 253) from the terminal computer 30 and outputs read image data. A print unit 120 that has an input / output unit 110 for performing printing at a predetermined position on the check C based on input print information, and a magnetic head 13 and has a print head that is printed with magnetic ink in advance. A magnetic reading unit 130 for reading the user identification information 251, an image reading unit 140 for reading the image data of the front and back surfaces of the check C, a driving roller 15 and a conveying roller 17, And a display unit 160 having the indicator unit 42 and displaying an image reading (storage) result or an error display. It has a driver, has a printing unit 120, a magnetic reading unit 130, an image reading unit 140, a driving unit 170 that drives the transport unit 150 and the display unit 160, a control unit 180 that controls each unit, and a power supply unit 19, The power supply unit 190 supplies power to each unit.
[0053]
The control unit 180 includes a CPU 81, a ROM 82, a CG-ROM (character generator ROM) 83, a RAM 84, and a flash ROM 85, and is connected to a bus. The ROM 82 has a control program block 82a for storing a control program processed by the CPU 81 and a control data block 82b for storing control data including various tables. The CG-ROM 83 stores font data of characters to be printed, and outputs corresponding font data when a code for specifying the characters is given.
[0054]
The RAM 84 (temporary storage medium) includes a group of registers 84 a used as flags and the like, a print data block 84 b for storing print data to be printed by the print head 1, and a magnetic data for storing magnetic data read by the magnetic head 13. It has a data block 84c and an image data block (work area) 84d for (temporarily) storing image data read by the scanner 14, and is used as a work area for control processing. A flash ROM (storage memory; main storage medium) 85 stores a plurality of image data transferred from the image data block 84d, and collectively or in block units when an instruction for deletion (erase) is issued from the terminal computer 30. These image data are erased to secure the remaining capacity.
[0055]
With the above-described configuration, the CPU 81 inputs various signals and data from each unit in the multifunction device 40 based on the control program in the ROM 82, processes various data and the like in the RAM 84, and stores various signals in each unit. By outputting signals, data, and the like, the entire multiprocessing apparatus 40 is controlled, such as printing on check C, reading magnetic ink characters of check C, and reading, transmitting, and deleting image data.
[0056]
Here, a series of processes of the check C will be briefly described. First, after receiving the check C from the customer, the operator requests the customer to sign the signature field 256 (see FIG. 9), and then inserts the check C from the insertion slot 43 to determine the validity of the check C ( (See FIG. 2). When the check C is inserted, the user identification information 251 printed with magnetic ink characters is recognized by the magnetic head 13 as characters. Note that character recognition can also be performed by the scanner 14 using OCR.
[0057]
When the user identification information 251 is character-recognized, the information is sent to the terminal computer 30, and the terminal computer 30 transfers the information to the payment processing server 215 via the network 220 (see FIG. 10). Then, it is determined whether or not the check C is valid based on a response from the settlement processing server 215. Here, if it is determined that the check C is not valid, the drive roller 15 is driven in the reverse direction, and the check C is discharged from the insertion slot 43. At this time, an error is displayed on the indicator section 42 (L5; see FIG. 7), and a display indicating that the check C is invalid is displayed on the display 33 of the terminal computer 30 (error display).
[0058]
On the other hand, if it is determined that the check C is valid, the process waits for the operator to input the amount information 252 and the store information 253. When the price information 252 and the store information 253 are input, the print head 12 prints them at predetermined positions on the surface of the check C. When the printing on the front side is completed, the drive roller 15 and the transport roller 17 are driven to turn over the check C and transport the paper to the transport path 21 again. When the check C is transported to the position of the print head 12, the print head 12 prints endorsement information 255 at a predetermined position on the back surface of the check. Note that the money amount information 252 may be entered in the handwriting entry field 257 (see FIG. 9) by the operator or the user, in addition to being printed.
[0059]
After the printing of the price information 252 and the store information 253 is completed, the scanner 14 reads an image on the surface of the check C. When the reading of the front side is completed, the drive roller 15 and the conveying roller 17 are driven to reverse the front and back of the check C, and this time, the image of the back side is read and temporarily stored in the image data block 84d. The data is transferred and stored in the flash ROM 85. When the reading of the image is completed, the drive roller 15 and the transport roller 17 are driven, the check C is discharged from the discharge port 44, and the present process ends.
[0060]
The image data stored in the flash ROM 85 is read out when instructed by the terminal computer 30, and is associated with the user identification information 251, the price information 252, and the store information 253 stored in the terminal computer 30. (Check information) and transmitted to the settlement processing server 215, details of which will be described later.
[0061]
Next, a method of transmitting and processing image data between the terminal computer 30 and the image reading unit 140 (scanner 14) will be described. As shown in the system conceptual diagram of FIG. 4, first, a scan command instructing reading of image data is transmitted from an application 38 of the terminal computer 30 via an interface control unit (OS) 39. At this time, an identification number assigned to the read image data is also transmitted.
[0062]
This identification number is a number that can be easily managed by the terminal computer 30. For example, a number in the 100s is used for large customers, and a number in the 500s is used for customers who use a specific check C. By giving the information, customer management can be performed efficiently. The terminal computer 30 transmits the assigned identification number to the scanner 14 and stores the identification number in the terminal computer 30 in association with the accompanying information accompanying the image data.
[0063]
Here, as shown in FIG. 5A, the accompanying information includes merchandise information and the like in addition to store information 253, amount information 252, date and time information 258, user identification information 251, and the like. The information 252, the date and time information 258, the product information, and the like are based on information input to the terminal computer 30 by an operator or information stored in the terminal computer 30 in advance, and the user identification information 251 is read by the magnetic head 13. It is based on the information provided. On the other hand, an identification number and image data are stored in the scanner 14 (the storage memory 85 in the multifunction device 40) in association with each other. That is, the identification number in the terminal computer 30 and the identification number in the storage memory 85 are associated in a one-to-one relationship.
[0064]
As described above, since the identification numbers in the terminal computer 30 and the identification numbers in the storage memory 85 are associated with each other in a one-to-one relationship, image data can be uploaded easily and reliably. Further, since the user identification information 251 is read by the magnetic head 12, it is possible to save the trouble of the operator inputting the user identification information 251 to the terminal computer 30, and to perform a management error (erroneous operation) due to an operator input error. Identification number, etc.) can be eliminated.
[0065]
Subsequently, the scan command and the identification number transmitted from the terminal computer 30 (as shown in FIG. 4) are input to the image reading unit 140 via the interface control unit (interface) 11. The input scan command is analyzed by the system control unit / command analysis unit (CPU) 81, and after image data is read by the scanner 14, the image data is temporarily stored in the work area 84d (RAM). At this time, the scanner 14 stores the read image data in the work area 84d in a data format (JPEG format, TIFF format, etc.) specified by the terminal computer 30. The designation of the data format may be set in advance by the terminal computer 30 and may be performed for all the read image data, or the data format may be designated for each image data together with the transmission of the scan command. It may be made to be done.
[0066]
The image data stored in the work area 84d is stored in the storage memory (flash ROM) 85 via the system control unit / command analysis unit 81, and the storage result is stored in the interface control unit as storage result report information. It is transmitted to the application 38 via 39. Then, the application 38 determines a processing method based on the storage result report information, and instructs the image reading unit 140.
[0067]
As described above, by using a flash ROM as the storage memory 85, erasing and writing of image data can be performed collectively or in units of blocks, and stored data does not disappear even when the power is turned off. It is preferable that the storage memory 85 has a capacity large enough to store at least the number of checks performed by the POS terminal 10 per day.
[0068]
The storage result report information transmitted to the application 38 includes information on whether or not the image data has been normally stored in the storage memory 85 and the data size of the image data. The processing method can be determined. In accordance with the processing method determined by the terminal computer 30, the image reading unit 140 performs processing such as stopping and completing the transaction (processing) and uploading image data to the terminal computer 30.
[0069]
To upload the image data, the identification number of the image data to be uploaded by the terminal computer 30 is specified, and the image data corresponding to the specified identification number in the storage memory 85 is stored in a transmission buffer (not shown) in the work area 84 and This is performed by being transmitted to the terminal computer 30 via the input / output interface 11. In this manner, the terminal computer 30 can reliably upload desired image data by specifying the identification number. At the time of uploading, it is possible to easily determine what the desired image data is based on the accompanying information.
[0070]
Then, after uploading the image data, the terminal computer 30 stores the associated information, the identification number, and the image data in association with each other, as shown in FIG. This can be used for data management, such as promptly responding to inquiries from the user after using the check C.
[0071]
Here, when the image data is normally stored in the storage memory 85, it is necessary to upload the image data from the storage memory 85 to the terminal computer 30. The upload of the image data is performed when the terminal computer 30 is idle (closed). The uploading operation is performed by the operator at a later time, and an uploading instruction is issued from the terminal computer 30 to the multifunction device 40 based on the uploading operation. Accordingly, when the load on the POS terminal 10 is high (during normal processing), image data can be transmitted quickly without imposing a load on the terminal computer 30. The upload of the image data may be determined such that, when a predetermined inactivity time has elapsed in the terminal computer 30, the terminal computer 30 determines that the idle time has elapsed, and issues an upload instruction from the terminal computer 30. According to this configuration, the labor of the upload operation by the operator can be saved.
[0072]
At this time, the identification number of the image data to be uploaded is specified, and the image data corresponding to the specified identification number is copied (copied) and uploaded (see FIG. 5B). As described above, since the image data corresponding to the designated identification number is copied and transmitted to the terminal computer 30, even if the image data is damaged during transmission, data loss can be avoided. Further, after uploading, the image data serving as the copy source of the transmitted image data is deleted each time, so that the storage capacity in the storage memory 85 can always be secured.
[0073]
After uploading, instead of deleting the image data as the copy source each time, after transmitting all the image data in the storage memory 85, all the image data as the copy source are collectively deleted. Is also good. According to this configuration, data loss can be avoided even if the storage medium in the terminal computer 30 has failed until all image data is transmitted, and after all image data has been transmitted, Thus, the storage capacity in the storage memory 85 can be secured.
[0074]
Here, a series of processes between the terminal computer 30 and the image reading unit 140 (scanner 14) will be described. As shown in the flowchart of FIG. 6, when scanning (image reading instruction) is executed by the terminal computer 30 (S10), a scan command and an identification number are transmitted to the scanner 14. Thus, the scanner 14 starts operating (S11), and starts scanning (S12). When the scan and the storage operation to the storage memory 85 are completed (S13), the storage result report information is transmitted to the terminal computer 30.
[0075]
Upon acquiring the storage result report information (S14), the terminal computer 30 determines the subsequent processing according to the content. More specifically, when a storage error occurs due to insufficient remaining capacity or a failure of the flash ROM 85 (S15: Yes), it is determined whether data upload is necessary (S16), and it is determined that data upload is necessary ( (S16: Yes) transmits a continuation response to the scanner 14 (S17).
[0076]
The scanner 14 acquires this continuation response (S18), determines that the process is to be continued (S19: Yes), uploads the scan data (image data) in the work area 84d to the terminal computer 30 (S20), The process ends (S22). On the other hand, the terminal computer 30 acquires the transmitted image data, stores it in the device (S21), and ends the processing (S23). As described above, the process of transmitting the image data stored in the work area 84d directly to the terminal computer 30 without going through the storage memory (flash ROM) 85 can be performed. Image data to the terminal computer 30.
[0077]
In this case, the indicator (see FIG. 7) indicates that the LED (L2) indicating a "storage error" is displayed during the period from completion of the scan and the storage operation to the storage memory 85 (S13) to completion of the data upload (S20). The LED (L3) indicating "data upload is in progress" is turned on while the data upload is completed (S20) after the continuation response is transmitted (S18) while the light is turned on.
[0078]
Further, the storage result report information is acquired (S14), and if no storage error has occurred (when storage is performed normally; S15: No), an end response to end the processing is transmitted, and the terminal computer 30 Is completed (S23). The scanner 14 obtains the end response (S18), and determines that the process has ended (S19: No). In this case, the indicator (see FIG. 7) turns on the LED (L1) indicating "storage OK" for several seconds after the scan and the storage operation to the storage memory 85 are completed (S13).
[0079]
Further, if a storage error (processing failure, power cut, etc.) that makes it impossible to continue the processing occurs (S15: Yes), it is determined that data upload is not necessary (S16: No), and the processing ends. A termination response to (stop) is transmitted, and the processing of the terminal computer 30 is terminated (S23). The scanner 14 obtains the end response (S18), and determines that the process has ended (S19: No). In this case, the indicator (see FIG. 7) includes an LED (L2) indicating “storage error” and an LED (L4) indicating “processing aborted” from the completion of scanning and storage operation to the storage memory 85 (S13). Lights up for a few seconds. In this case, an error (processing stop) may be notified by a beep sound (warning sound).
[0080]
It should be noted that, besides the above processing, processing as shown in FIG. 8 is also possible. That is, the storage result report information may be acquired (S14), and a response to continue the processing may be transmitted when no storage error has occurred (when storage is performed normally; S15: No). . In this case, the scanner 14 normally completes the storage, and then performs the scan data transmission process (upload) (S19: Yes → S20). Also, the indicator (see FIG. 7) keeps the LED (L1) indicating “storage OK” lit and the data upload is completed (S20) after the scan and the storage operation to the storage memory 85 are completed, and continues. During the period from the transmission of the response (S18) to the completion of the data upload (S20), the LED (L3) indicating "data uploading" is lit.
[0081]
Similarly, if a storage error has occurred (S15: Yes), but it is determined that data upload is not required (S16: No), that is, storage has been performed normally, but some error occurs during the processing. In such a case, it is also possible to transmit a response for continuing the processing. In this case, as the indicator (see FIG. 7), the LED (L2) indicating "storage error" is lit from the time when the scan and the storage operation to the storage memory 85 are completed (S13) and the time when the data upload is completed (S20). At the same time, the LED (L3) indicating "data uploading" is lit from the time when the data upload is completed (S20) after the continuation response is transmitted (S18).
[0082]
In this way (as shown in FIG. 8), in the case of (S15: No) or (S16: No), the continuation response is sent to the scanner 14, so that the storage in the storage memory 85 can be performed by one command. And uploading to the terminal computer 30. In addition, this makes it possible to store image data in the storage memory 85 and the terminal computer 30 twice, thereby further improving data integrity.
[0083]
As described above, according to the image data transmission method and processing method of the present invention, the read image data is temporarily stored in the storage memory 85, and is transmitted in accordance with an instruction from the terminal computer 30. The image data can be read quickly and transmitted to the image data without depending on the 30 environments. Also, storage result report information on the result of storing the image data read by the scanner 14 in the storage memory 85 is transmitted to the terminal computer 30, and the image data is stored in accordance with the processing method determined by the terminal computer 30 based on the storage result report information. Therefore, even when a failure such as a failure or a shortage of remaining capacity occurs in the storage memory 85, appropriate processing can be performed.
[0084]
As described above, the storage result report information includes information on the data size of the stored image data, and the terminal computer 30 may determine whether to perform data upload based on the information. good. For example, after the storage is normally performed (S15: No), even if the upload instruction (continuation response) is transmitted to enhance the integrity, if the data size is equal to or larger than the predetermined size, the upload instruction is issued. It is good also as composition not to perform. According to this configuration, if it is determined that it takes time to upload the data (when the data size is large), the upload is not performed, so that the customer does not have to wait in the check C settlement process. In this case, the data size may be determined based on any of “number of vertical and horizontal dots of an image”, “size of an image file”, and “image file format (with or without compression)”.
[0085]
Further, the storage result report information may be displayed not only on the indicator section 42 but also on the display 33 of the terminal computer 30. According to this configuration, the storage result report information can be easily understood by the user, and detailed information (error content, data size, and the like) can be notified.
[0086]
Next, an electronic payment system 201 including the POS terminal 10 of the present invention will be briefly described. As shown in FIG. 10, the electronic payment system 201 includes a user (customer terminal) 211 using the check C, a store 212 (POS terminal 10) using the check C, and a issuing bank 213 of the check C. , A transaction bank 214 of the store 212, and a payment processing server 215 that performs a payment process of the check C. The payment processing server 215 is connected to the user 211, the store 212, the check issuing bank 213, and the store transaction via the network 220. It is connected to a bank 214.
[0087]
In the settlement process, first, the user identification information 251 of the check C (the one whose validity has been confirmed) is read by the magnetic head 13, the amount information 252 and the store information 253 (store name, store A code, a bank account number, a bank account name, an address, a telephone number, etc.) are associated with the image data read by the scanner 14 and transmitted to the settlement processing server 215 as check information.
[0088]
In this case, it is preferable that the endorsement information 255 (store name, store code, bank account number, bank account name, address, telephone number, etc.) is also transmitted together with image data. According to this configuration, the proof ability of the check C can be further enhanced. Further, the store information 253 may be configured such that information to be printed is stored in the terminal computer 30 or the multifunction device 40 in advance, and is printed at the same time when the price information 252 is printed. According to this configuration, it is possible to save the trouble of inputting the store information 253 by the operator.
[0089]
The settlement processing server 215 performs a monetary settlement between the store transaction bank 214 and the check issuing bank 213 based on the transmitted check information (user identification information 251, amount information 252, store information 253, and image data). As described above, the payment processing server 215 can collectively acquire data necessary for the payment processing, and further, from the image data, information on the amount and the payee (the store name, the bank account number of the store, etc.). Since there is no need to extract, settlement processing can be performed quickly.
[0090]
Further, the settlement processing server 215 acquires the user's contact information (e-mail address) from the user identification information 251 and transmits information on the processing content of the check C based on this. The information on the processing content includes the date and time of use, settlement amount, payment difference information, settlement date and image data obtained by reading the check C, and the user confirms that the payment is properly performed based on the information. can do.
[0091]
As described above, according to the electronic payment system 201 of the present invention, the exchange of the check itself can be omitted by transmitting and receiving the image data, so that the payment processing can be performed safely. In addition, the payment processing server 215 can collectively acquire data necessary for the payment processing, so that the payment processing can be quickly performed.
[0092]
As described above, according to the image data transmission method, the image reading device (multi-function device 40), the POS terminal 10, and the electronic payment system 201 of the present invention, the read image data is temporarily stored in the storage memory 85, Since this is transmitted in accordance with the instruction from the terminal computer 30, the image data can be transmitted to the terminal computer 30 irrespective of the environment of the terminal computer 30.
[0093]
In addition, the time required for data transmission from the scanner 14 and storage (save) in the terminal computer 30 does not affect the image data reading time. However, the image data can be read quickly. Further, an image data corresponding to the identification number designated by the terminal computer 30 is transmitted by storing image data in the multifunction device 40 with the identification number designated by the terminal computer 30 added thereto. Therefore, the terminal computer 30 can easily and reliably manage the image data.
[0094]
In addition, an electronic payment system that performs a check payment process by transmitting and receiving image data read by the scanner 14 without transmitting and receiving the check itself can be adopted without depending on the environment of the terminal computer 30. Can be.
[0095]
Further, the electronic payment system 201 of the present invention associates all information (user identification information 251, amount information 252, store information 253, and image data) necessary for the payment processing from the POS terminal 10 and sets the payment processing server 215 as check information. And the payment processing server 215 performs the payment processing based on the check information, so that the payment processing can be quickly performed.
[0096]
In the above example, when the remaining capacity of the storage memory 85 is insufficient, an error is notified as a storage error. However, the remaining capacity is always detected and the remaining capacity is determined to be a predetermined value. If the capacity is less than the capacity, an error display indicating that may be performed. According to this configuration, the operator can check the remaining capacity before the scanning process, so that the operator can consider a response such as recommending the customer to use another POS terminal 10.
[0097]
In this case, the detected remaining capacity may be displayed on a display provided in the multifunction device 40 or on the display 33 of the terminal computer 30. According to this configuration, the operator can perform the settlement process with confidence while constantly checking the remaining capacity of the storage memory 85.
[0098]
Further, in the above example, the image data read by the scanner 14 (the multifunction device 40) is data obtained by reading a check (a personal check, a bank check, etc.). The present invention is also applicable to a case where the data obtained by reading is transmitted and processed to the host computer.
[0099]
In addition, regardless of the above-described embodiment, for example, the system configuration and the device configuration can be appropriately changed without departing from the gist of the present invention.
[0100]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the image data transmission method, the image reading device, the POS terminal, and the electronic payment system of the present invention, image data is quickly read without depending on the environment of the terminal computer, and the image data is reliably read. It can be transmitted to the terminal computer.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a POS terminal of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of a multifunction device including the image reading device of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a control block diagram of a multifunction device including the image reading device of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram of a system between the image reading apparatus of the present invention and a terminal computer.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an association between incidental information accompanying image data and an identification number according to the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an image data transmission / processing method according to the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an indicator unit provided in a multifunction device including the image reading device of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for transmitting and processing image data according to the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a check to be read by an image reading apparatus according to a conventional example of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram showing an electronic payment system as a conventional example of the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
10 POS terminal
12 Print head
13 Magnetic head
14 Scanner
30 Terminal computer
40 Combined processing equipment
42 Indicator section
60 POS server
81 CPU
82 ROM
83 CG-ROM
84 RAM
84d image data block (work area)
85 Flash ROM (storage memory)
110 Input / output unit
120 Printing unit
130 Magnetic reading unit
140 Image reading unit
150 transport unit
160 Display
170 drive unit
180 control unit
190 power supply
201 Electronic payment processing system
211 user
212 stores
213 Check issuing bank
214 Store Bank
215 Payment processing server
220 network
251 User identification information
252 Price information
253 store information
255 endorsement information
256 signature information
257 Handwriting entry field
258 Date and time information
C check

Claims (21)

A plurality of image data read by the image reading device, a method of transmitting image data to be transmitted to a host computer,
A reading instruction step of designating an identification number by the host computer and instructing the image reading device to read the image data,
An image data storing step of reading the image data by the image reading device and storing the image data in the image reading device in association with the identification number;
An image data transmitting step of transmitting, to the host computer, image data corresponding to an identification number designated by the host computer, among the image data stored in the image reading device;
A method for transmitting image data, comprising: The image data transmitting method according to claim 1, wherein the image data transmitting step transmits the image data when the host computer is idle. 3. The image data transmission method according to claim 1, wherein the image data storing step stores the image data in a data format designated by the host computer. The image data transmitting step is to copy and transmit the image data corresponding to the specified identification number to the host computer,
4. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a batch data deleting step of collectively deleting all image data serving as a copy source after transmitting all image data in the image reading apparatus. How to send image data. The image data transmitting step is to copy and transmit the image data corresponding to the specified identification number to the host computer,
4. The image data transmitting method according to claim 1, further comprising a partial data deleting step of deleting the image data serving as a copy source of the image data after transmitting the image data. 6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the image reading device and the host computer are connected via a connector. Accompanying information acquisition step in which the host computer acquires accompanying information accompanying the image data,
7. The image data transmission method according to claim 1, further comprising an associated information storing step of storing the associated information and the identification number in the host computer in association with each other. . The image data is data obtained by reading a check,
The method according to claim 7, wherein the incidental information includes user identification information printed in advance in the check. An image reading apparatus for transmitting a plurality of read image data to a host computer,
From the host computer, a reading instruction acquisition unit that acquires an instruction to read the image data and information about an identification number to be assigned to the image data,
Image data storage means for reading the image data according to the instruction of the host computer, and storing the image data in association with the identification number;
Image reading means for transmitting, to the host computer, image data corresponding to the identification number designated by the host computer among the image data stored in the image data storage means. apparatus. The image reading apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the image data transmitting unit transmits the image data when the host computer is idle. The image reading apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the image data storage unit stores the image data in a data format specified by the host computer. The image data transmitting means duplicates the image data corresponding to the specified identification number and transmits it to the host computer,
12. The image processing apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising a batch data deletion unit that collectively deletes all image data serving as a copy source after transmitting all image data in the image reading device. Image reading device. The image data transmitting means duplicates the image data corresponding to the specified identification number and transmits it to the host computer,
12. The image reading apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising a partial data deleting step of deleting image data serving as a copy source of the image data after transmitting the image data. 14. The image reading apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising a connector for connecting to the host computer. An image reading device according to any one of claims 9 to 14,
A POS terminal, comprising: a terminal computer functioning as the host computer. Accompanying information acquisition means for the terminal computer to acquire accompanying information accompanying the image data,
16. The POS terminal according to claim 15, further comprising an associated information storage unit that stores the associated information and the identification number in the terminal computer in association with each other. 17. The POS terminal according to claim 16, wherein the image data is data obtained by reading a check, and the accompanying information includes user identification information printed in advance on the check. The apparatus further includes a user identification information reading device that reads the user identification information,
18. The POS terminal according to claim 17, wherein the accompanying information acquisition unit acquires the user identification information transmitted from the user identification information reading device to the terminal computer. The accompanying information includes price information and store information to be printed on the check,
19. The POS terminal according to claim 17, wherein the terminal computer includes input means for inputting the amount information and the store information. A POS terminal according to claim 19,
A customer terminal used by the user of the check,
An electronic payment system, comprising: a payment processing server that is connected to the POS terminal and the customer terminal via a network, and that operates and manages the payment processing based on the check. 21. The payment processing server according to claim 20, wherein the POS terminal transmits check information in which the user identification information, the price information, the store information, and the image data are associated with each other. Electronic payment system.

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