JP2011186649A - Code reading device, program, and commodity registering system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent needless multiplex registration of the same commodity by an operator who is not skilled in commodity registration, and to avoid deterioration of operation efficiency about continuous registration to be needed for the same commodity by an operator who is skilled in the commodity registration. <P>SOLUTION: A scanner device 5 for reading a bar code BC which is attached to a commodity G, and for transmitting a commodity code to a POS terminal 3 after acquiring a commodity code from the read bar code BC has a multiple reading prevention timer unit 524b for changing and setting a multiple reading prevention time in response to a proficiency degree of a commodity registration operation of a cashier who uses the scanner device 5, and a multiple reading prevention executing unit 524e for executing a predetermined error process of not transmitting the acquired commodity code to the POS terminal 3 when the commodity code which is the same code transmitted to the POS terminal 3 last time within the multiple reading prevention time set by the multiple reading prevention timer unit 524b. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a code reader, a program, and a product registration system.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, fixed-type bar code readers have been introduced as bar code readers in POS (Point Of Sales System) systems at large-scale mass sales stores.

  Generally, in this type of fixed barcode reader, a vertical housing standing on the upper surface of a checkout counter installed at a settlement place and a cashier connected to the upper end of the vertical housing are used. An operation display unit and a customer display are provided. In addition, a reading window is provided on the surface of the vertical housing facing the store clerk, and a reading unit (camera or image) for reading the barcode attached to the product through the reading window and acquiring the product code of the product. Various circuits such as a processing unit) are mounted inside the vertical housing (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  In this type of bar code reader, when a bar code attached to a product to be purchased that a customer wants to purchase is pointed to a reading window by a store clerk (an operator called “casher”), The product code is acquired by reading the code, and the product code is transmitted to the POS terminal. Thereby, the merchandise registration process for the sales file is performed on the POS terminal side.

  However, this type of bar code reader has a wider range of distance that can be read than conventional hand-held bar code readers (commonly called touch scanners). If you use the same product, you can repeat the act of searching for the barcode attached to the product near the reading window, regardless of the store clerk ’s intention. There was an inconvenience that unnecessary double reading, that is, unnecessary multiple registration of the same product occurred in the POS terminal.

  In order to eliminate this inconvenience, conventionally, there has been provided a technique for preventing unnecessary multiple registration as described above by a double reading prevention function using a double reading prevention timer (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

  More specifically, in Patent Document 2, it is determined whether the product code acquired this time by the reading process is the same as the product code acquired last time, that is, the product code transmitted to the POS terminal last time. As a result, when it is determined that they are the same, it is determined whether or not the time when the product code is acquired this time is the activation of the twice-reading prevention timer for the product code transmitted to the POS terminal last time. When it is determined that the twice-reading prevention timer is activated, the barcode reading device equipped with the twice-reading prevention function that discards the product code acquired this time and notifies the discarding with a high-frequency sound. It is disclosed.

  However, in Patent Document 2, if the product code acquired this time is the same as the product code transmitted to the POS terminal last time and the read prevention timer is not activated twice, the product code acquired this time is transmitted to the POS terminal. Then, a configuration is adopted in which the store clerk is notified with a low-frequency sound that the product code has been transmitted to the POS terminal. However, in a store where noise is likely to occur, the store clerk will hear the low-frequency sound described above. There is an inconvenience that there is a high possibility that it cannot be heard.

  Furthermore, in Patent Document 2, in addition to the above-described configuration, the twice reading prevention time measured by the twice reading prevention timer set by the twice reading prevention function is not limited to any skill level of product registration for each clerk. Since a configuration is adopted in which a predetermined time common to the store clerk is fixedly set, there is the following inconvenience.

  For example, when the reading prevention time is set to a relatively short time (hereinafter referred to as “Case 1”), the store clerk cannot hear the low-frequency sound in the store where noise is likely to occur. The unskilled person does not realize that the product code of the product to be read is transmitted to the POS terminal and the product registration has already been performed, and the reading window prompts the user to register the product even after the read prevention timer times out twice. The product registration work of directing the barcode attached to the product to the product is performed.

  As a result, unnecessary multiple registrations may occur frequently, and extra work such as charging customers for products that do not exist due to unnecessary multiple registrations or canceling unnecessary product registrations due to multiple registrations is performed. As a result, there is a possibility that the customer service will be deteriorated at the time of payment such as making the customer wait for payment more than necessary.

  In addition, some customers may not come to the store again due to the decline in customer service as described above, which may cause inconveniences such as lowering or not increasing the operating profit of the store.

  On the other hand, when the twice reading prevention time is set to a relatively long time (hereinafter referred to as “Case 2”), the chance of recognizing that reading has occurred twice due to the high frequency sound described above increases. Although it is possible to reduce the frequency of unnecessary multiple registration compared to Case 1 and reduce the degree of inconvenience described in Case 1, a store clerk familiar with product registration (hereinafter simply referred to as “expert”). If there are multiple identical products as purchase target products, when registering the same products consecutively, waiting for the continuous registration work until the reading prevention timer times out twice. There is a risk that the working efficiency of the skilled worker may be reduced.

  Furthermore, as described above, the work efficiency of the skilled worker may be reduced, so that the waiting time for settlement cannot be shortened and the customer service may be reduced. As a result, the operating profit of the store is reduced as in the case 1. There is inconvenience such as not going up.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and prevents unnecessary multiple registration of the same product by an operator unfamiliar with product registration, and necessary continuous registration of the same product by an operator accustomed to product registration. An object of the present invention is to provide a code reader, a program, and a product registration system capable of avoiding a decrease in work efficiency.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the code reading device of the present invention is a time setting for changing and setting the multiple reading prevention time according to the skill level of the product reading work of the operator who uses the code reading device. And when the same product code as the product code transmitted to the host device is acquired within the multiple reading prevention time set by the time setting unit, the acquired product code is not transmitted to the host device. A plurality of reading prevention execution means for executing the error processing.

  According to the present invention, since the multiple reading prevention time is changed and set according to the skill level of the product reading work of the operator who uses the code reading device, unnecessary multiple registration of the same product by an operator unfamiliar with product registration is performed. In addition to preventing this, it is possible to avoid a reduction in work efficiency of necessary continuous registration of the same product by an operator who is used to registering the product.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram for explaining a schematic configuration of a POS system according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view for explaining an external configuration of a checkout system installed at a settlement place. FIG. 3 is a block diagram for explaining the hardware configuration of the store server. FIG. 4 is a block diagram for explaining the hardware configuration of the POS terminal. FIG. 5 is a block diagram for explaining the hardware configuration of the scanner apparatus. FIG. 6 is a block diagram for explaining a functional configuration in the POS system. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of various tables held in the skill level information setting unit and the update skill level determination unit. FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining the procedure of processing executed by the skill level information setting unit of the store server and the update skill level determination unit of the scanner device. FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the procedure of the process of updating the skill level value for setting the double reading prevention time and determining the double reading prevention time in a certain checkout system. FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining a modification of the processing procedure of FIG.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  The present invention is applied to a POS (Point Of Sales System) system (: point-of-sales information management system) installed in a merchandise sales store that sells merchandise. A case where the present invention is applied to a POS system installed in a large-scale mass sales store such as a supermarket will be described.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram for explaining a schematic configuration of a POS system 1 according to the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1, in this POS system 1, one store server 2 and a plurality of POS terminals 3A to 3N (hereinafter, unspecified POS terminals are simply referred to as POS terminals 3) are connected to a LAN ( The POS terminals 3A to 3N are connected to scanner devices 5A to 5N (hereinafter, an unspecified scanner device is simply referred to as a scanner device 5), which is connected via an internal network 4 such as a local area network (Local Area Network). Each is electrically connected.

  Here, the store server 2 is a server device installed in a supermarket backyard or the like as a host device of the POS terminal 3.

  The store server 2 is realized by a personal computer or the like, and stores a product information file 204a in storage means such as a hard disk drive (HDD: Hard Disk Drive) 204 (see FIG. 3), and each of the POS terminals 3A to 3N. Necessary product information is returned from the product information file 204a in response to the inquiry from.

  Here, the product information file 204a stores a product code for specifying a product uniquely assigned to each product type and product information including a product name (product name), a unit price, and the like in association with each other. It is a file to be executed.

  The POS terminal 3 is a terminal that is installed at a settlement place in a store and is used for settlement of products purchased by customers, and performs various data communications between the store server 2 and the scanner device 5.

  The scanner device 5 is a code reading device that reads a code such as a bar code attached to a product to be purchased brought by a customer, and is a device for transmitting the product code acquired from the read code to the POS terminal 3. .

  Each of the POS terminals 3A to 3N and the respective scanner devices 5A to 5N that are paired with each other, respectively, one checkout system 6A to 6N (hereinafter, an unspecified checkout system is simply referred to as a checkout system 6). It is composed.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view for explaining an external configuration of one checkout system 6.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the checkout system 6 mainly includes a pair of POS terminals 3 and a scanner device 5, and the POS terminals 3 and the scanner device 5 are connected via a communication cable 7. Various data can be sent and received between each other.

  The POS terminal 3 is placed on the upper surface of a drawer 9 placed on a cash register table 8, and the scanner device 5 is fixed to the approximate center of the upper surface of a soccer table (common name: checkout counter) 10.

  The drawer 9 is a device for storing money received as a reserve before the start of business and for storing money received from a customer during business, and a drawer for storing money inside the drawer 9 housing ( (Not shown) is provided.

  The POS terminal 3 includes a keyboard 31, a cashier display 32, a customer display 33, a receipt issuing port 34, etc. on the upper surface of the housing 30. Is provided with a printer 35 (see FIG. 4).

  The cashier is a clerk in charge of settlement processing, and is an operator who uses and operates the chuck-out system 6, that is, the pair of POS terminals 3 and the scanner device 5.

  Further, as shown in the enlarged view indicated by reference numeral E1 in FIG. 2, when the clerk declares the use of the checkout system 6 on the keyboard 31 of the POS terminal 3, that is, the clerk inputs his / her clerk number. A login key 31a that is pressed prior to the checkout, a logout key 31b that is used when the cashier declares the end of use of the checkout system 6, and a deposit / cash key that is used when the end of one transaction of one customer. 31c and the above-mentioned store clerk's personnel number and a numeric key 31d such as “00” and “0” to “9” used for inputting (numerical value) the amount of money deposited from the customer Etc.

  The scanner device 5 includes a vertical housing 51 erected on the upper surface of the soccer base 10, a cashier operation display unit 52 and a customer display 53 connected to the upper end of the vertical housing 51. .

  A reading window 51a is provided on the surface 51A of the vertical housing 51 facing the cashier, and a barcode BC (enlarged by the symbol E2 in FIG. 2) attached to the product G through the reading window 51a. A reading unit (a variety of circuits such as the camera 54 and the image processing unit 508) (see FIG. 5) (see FIG. 5) for acquiring a product code of the product is mounted inside the vertical housing 51.

  The cashier operation display unit 52 includes a cashier display 52a and a keyboard 52b.

  2, the keyboard 52b of the scanner device 5 has various function keys (login key 52b-1 and logout key 52b-2) that are substantially the same as those of the keyboard 31 of the POS terminal 3. , A deposit / cash key 52b-3 and a numeric key 52b-4) and a cancel key 52b-5 used when the store clerk erroneously reads the same product G and cancels the registered product. It has.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram for explaining the hardware configuration of the store server 2.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the store server 2 has a hardware configuration using a general computer such as a personal computer. For example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201, a CPU 201, and a bus line BL0 are connected. ROM (Read Only Memory) 202, RAM (Random Access Memory) 203, hard disk device (HDD) 204, external storage medium processing unit 205, communication I / F 206, LAN I / F 207, input / output processing unit 208, A display controller 209, an audio processing unit 210, and the like, and a power supply device 211 are provided.

  Here, the CPU 201 controls the entire store server 2, that is, controls various calculations and various processes for each component part. The ROM 202 stores various files such as a control program for executing various processes in the store server 2. The RAM 203 temporarily stores work data such as input data and display data, a control program read from the ROM 202 when the store server 2 is started up, a product information file 204a read from the HDD 204, and the like. Is temporarily stored.

  The external storage medium processing unit 205 is a device that performs read / write processing on an external recording medium such as a CD-RW (Compact Disk Rewriteable).

  A communication I / F (interface) 206 transmits / receives various data to / from a server device of the headquarters connected via an external network such as the Internet. A LAN I / F (interface) 207 transmits and receives various data to and from the POS terminal 3 connected via the LAN 4.

  The input / output processing unit 208 inputs an operation signal from the keyboard 21 or the mouse 22 and outputs the input operation signal to the CPU 201. The display controller 209 controls screen display on the display 23. The audio processing unit 210 performs processing for generating various sounds such as a warning sound from the speaker 24.

  The power supply device 211 converts a voltage from the commercial power supply into a DC voltage supplied to the internal circuit of the store server 2 and outputs it by connecting an insertion device such as a plug to the commercial power supply such as an outlet.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram for explaining the hardware configuration of the POS terminal 3, and particularly shows the hardware configuration in the housing 30 (see FIG. 2).

  As shown in FIG. 4, the POS terminal 3 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 301, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 302 and a RAM (Random) connected to the CPU 301 via the bus line BL1. (Access Memory) 303, clock unit 304, communication I / F 305, LAN I / F 306, keyboard controller 307, first display controller 308, second display controller 309, printer controller 310, audio processing unit 311, I / O (Input / Output) port 312 and the like, and a power supply device 313 and the like.

  Here, the CPU 301 controls the POS terminal 3 as a whole, that is, controls various calculations and various processes for each component part. The ROM 302 stores various files such as a control program for executing various processes in the POS terminal 3 and a sales file 302a. The RAM 303 temporarily stores work data such as input data and display data, and temporarily stores a control program read from the ROM 302 when the POS terminal 3 is started up, a sales file 302a, and the like. It is.

  The clock unit 304 measures the current date and time.

  A communication I / F (interface) 305 transmits / receives various data to / from the scanner device 5 connected via the communication cable 7. A LAN I / F (interface) 306 transmits and receives various data to and from the store server 2 connected via the LAN 4.

  The keyboard controller 307 inputs key signals corresponding to various operation keys of the keyboard 31 and outputs the input key signals to the CPU 301. The first display controller 308 controls the screen display of the cashier display 32. The second display controller 309 controls the screen display of the customer display 33. The printer controller 310 controls printing of receipts and journals of the printer 35.

  The voice processing unit 311 performs a process of causing various sounds such as a warning sound in a later-described multiple reading prevention process from the speaker 36.

  The I / O port 312 outputs a signal instructing the drawer 9 to open the drawer at the time of settlement. The drawer 9 that has received the signal opens a drawer (not shown) for storing money.

  The power supply device 313 converts the voltage from the commercial power source into a DC voltage supplied to the internal circuit of the POS terminal 3 and outputs it by connecting an insertion device such as a plug to a commercial power source such as an outlet.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram for explaining the hardware configuration of the scanner device 5, and particularly shows the hardware configuration in the housing 51 (see FIG. 2).

  As shown in FIG. 5, the scanner device 5 includes a CPU 501, a ROM 502, a RAM 503, a communication I / F 504, a keyboard controller 505, a first display controller 506, and a second display that are connected to the CPU 501 via a bus line BL2. A controller 507, an image processing unit 508, an audio processing unit 509, and the like, a power supply device 510, and the like are provided.

  Here, the CPU 501 controls the entire scanner device 5, that is, controls various calculations and various processes for each component part. The ROM 503 stores a control program and various files for executing various processes in the scanner device 5. The RAM 503 temporarily stores data in operation such as input data and display data, and temporarily stores a product code of a barcode BC acquired by the camera 54 and the image processing unit 508 described later. It is.

  A communication I / F (interface) 504 transmits / receives various data to / from the POS terminal 3 connected via the communication cable 7.

  The keyboard controller 505 executes input processing of key signals corresponding to operation keys from the keyboard 52b. The first display controller 506 controls the screen display of the cashier display 52a. The second display controller 507 controls the screen display of the customer display 53.

  The image processing unit 508 is realized by an integrated circuit such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), and performs image processing of an image acquired by photographing of the connected camera 54.

  More specifically, the image processing unit 508 is attached to the product G using a well-known technique from a photographed image obtained by photographing with the camera 54 when the product G is held over the reading window 51a by a store clerk. The bar code BC (see FIG. 2) is read, and the read bar code BC is decoded to obtain a product code.

  More specifically, the image processing unit 508 binarizes the captured image, converts the binarized image into a contour image, and then fuses the contour line. Subsequently, the area of the barcode BC is filled, the background is erased, and the filled area is extracted. In this way, when the barcode BC region is included in the image, the image processing unit 508 extracts the barcode BC and follows a regression line passing through the center of the extracted barcode BC region. The product code is acquired by reading the barcode BC and decoding the read barcode BC.

  The product code acquired by the image processing unit 508 is transmitted to the POS terminal 3 via the communication I / F 504 under the control of the CPU 501.

  The voice processing unit 509 performs processing for generating a warning sound in the multiple reading prevention process described later from the speaker 55.

  The power supply device 510 converts a voltage from the commercial power supply into a DC voltage supplied to the internal circuit of the scanner device 5 and outputs it by connecting an insertion device such as a plug to a commercial power supply such as an outlet.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram for explaining a functional configuration in the POS system 1.

  As shown in FIG. 6, in the present embodiment, the store server 2 has a skill level information processing unit 220 and the POS terminal 3 has information as a functional configuration for executing the processes of FIGS. The scanner unit 5 includes a relay unit 320 and the code reading processing unit 520.

  The skill level information processing unit 220 of the store server 2 includes a data transmission / reception unit 221, a skill level information setting unit 222, a skill level specifying unit 223, a set value search unit 224, a threshold value search unit 225, and the like.

  Here, the data transmission / reception unit 221 receives information on the clerk number transmitted from the information relay unit 320 of the POS terminal 3, determines the setting value of the later-described multiple reading prevention time (t2) and the later-described skill level. Information such as a threshold value is transmitted.

  The skill level information setting unit 222 includes a skill level value registration table T1 (see FIG. 7A), a time width set value registration table T2 (see FIG. 7B), and a skill level determination threshold registration table T3 (see FIG. 7). c) and the like, and the processing shown in FIG.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of various tables T1 to T4 held by the skill level information setting unit 222 and an update skill level determination unit 525 described later.

  As shown in FIG. 7A, the skill level registration table T1 registers a skill level value (any one of A, B, and C) indicating the skill level of product registration in association with each store clerk number. ing.

  Specifically, the “skill level” here refers to the time when the store clerk causes the scanner device 5 to read the barcode BC of one product G and register the product code of the barcode BC in the POS terminal 3. This is a quantification of the level of skill in registering merchandise for a clerk determined by the length of time.

  In the present embodiment, three values of “A”, “B”, and “C” are prepared in descending order of the skill level as the skill level value, and the skill level value “A” indicates the product of the clerk. The skill level of registration is high, the skill level “B” indicates that the skill level of the clerk's product registration is normal (standard), and the skill level value “C” indicates that the skill level of product registration is low. It shows that.

  In the example shown in FIG. 7A, “A” is associated with the clerk number “1111” as the skill level value, “B” is associated with the clerk number “2222”, and so on. , “C” is associated with the clerk number “9999” as the skill level value.

  As shown in FIG. 7B, the time width setting value registration table T2 is a setting value for setting the multiple reading prevention time in association with the skill level value (any one of A, B, and C). Is registered.

  Specifically, the “setting value of the multiple reading prevention time” here is a numerical value for setting the multiple reading prevention time set by the multiple reading prevention timer unit 524b described later, That is, it is a numerical value for setting the multiple reading prevention time determined to prevent unnecessary multiple registration of the same product according to the skill level values (A, B and C).

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, “0” as a setting value for setting a standard multiple reading prevention time (for example, 5 seconds) to the skill level value “B” indicating that the skill level is normal (standard). B1 "is associated with the proficiency level value" A "indicating that the proficiency level is high, and the multiple reading prevention time (eg, 3 seconds) that is relatively shorter than the standard multiple reading prevention time (eg, 5 seconds) described above. “A1” as a setting value for setting (second) is associated with the skill level value “C” indicating that the skill level is low, and the above-described standard multiple reading prevention time (for example, 5 seconds) “C1” as a setting value for setting a relatively long multiple reading prevention time (for example, 8 seconds) is associated.

  As shown in FIG. 7C, the skill level determination threshold value registration table T3 determines the initial value of the skill level determination value X corresponding to each skill level and the skill level in association with the skill level values described above. A threshold for registering is registered.

  Specifically, the “threshold value” here is a value that is set as an initial value to the skill level determination value X that is added or subtracted by an update skill level determination unit 525 of the scanner device 5 described later, and the update skill level. This is a value for determining the value.

  In the example of FIG. 7C, the skill level “A” is associated with “A2” as a threshold, the skill level “B” is associated with “B2”, and the skill level “C” is defined as a threshold. “C2” is associated.

  Returning to FIG. 6, the skill level specifying unit 223, based on the clerk number information acquired via the data transmission / reception unit 221, obtains the skill level value (corresponding to the clerk number information from the skill level value table T1). A, B, or C) is specified.

  Based on the skill level value (A, B, or C) specified by the skill level specifying unit 223, the set value search unit 224 searches the skill level value (A, B, A setting value (any one of A1, B1, and C1) for setting the time width of the multiple reading prevention time associated with any one of C) is searched.

  The threshold value search unit 225, based on the skill level value (A, B, or C) specified by the skill level specifying unit 223, from the skill level determination threshold registration table T3, the skill level value (A, B, A threshold value (any one of A2, B2, and C2) for determining the skill level associated with any one of C) is searched.

  The information relay unit 320 of the POS terminal 3 includes a data transmission / reception unit 321, a clerk number reception unit 322, and the like.

  Here, the data transmitting / receiving unit 321 transmits information on the store clerk number received by the store clerk number receiving unit 322, which will be described later, to the store server 2 as well as a set value (any one of A1, B1, and C1) from the store server 2. An update skill level received from a threshold value (any one of A2, B2, and C2) and transmitted to the scanner device 5 or transmitted from the scanner device 5 (that is, an update skill level determination unit 525 and a data transmission / reception unit 521 described later). A value is received and transmitted to the store server 2.

  The store clerk number reception unit 322 receives store clerk number information input by a store clerk who uses the checkout system 6 (the pair of POS terminals 3 and the scanner device 5) and outputs the information to the data transmission / reception unit 321.

  The code reading processing unit 520 of the scanner device 5 includes a data transmission / reception unit 521, a product code acquisition unit 522, a normal notification unit 523, a multiple reading prevention processing unit 524, an update skill level determination unit 525, and the like.

  Here, the data transmission / reception unit 521 receives a setting value (any one of A1, B1, and C1) and a threshold value (any one of A2, B2, and C2) transmitted from the store server 2 via the POS terminal 3. The product code input from the product code acquisition unit 522 described later and the update skill level value input from the update skill level determination unit 525 are transmitted to the POS terminal 3.

  The product code acquisition unit 522 acquires the product code of the barcode BC of the product G by the method described in the image processing unit 508 described above. The product code acquisition unit 522 temporarily stores the acquired product code, and determines that the same code determination unit 524c (described later) is not the same, or the later-described multiple reading determination unit 524d determines that the reading is not multiple reading. The product code temporarily stored is output to the data transmission / reception unit 521 only when it is received. As a result, the product code is transmitted from the data transmitting / receiving unit 521 to the POS terminal 3.

  The normal notification unit 523 notifies the store clerk with a predetermined sound that the speaker 55 is sounded and the product code acquired by the product code acquisition unit 522 is transmitted to the POS terminal 3. Specifically, the above-described notification process is executed when it is determined that the same code determination unit 524c, which will be described later, is not the same, or when it is determined that it is not a multiple reading, which is described later, by the multiple reading determination unit 524d. is there.

  The multiple reading prevention processing unit 524 executes processing for preventing unnecessary multiple reading of the product code of the same product G. The code exit timer unit 524a, the multiple reading prevention timer unit 524b, the same code determination unit 524c, A reading determination unit 524d, a multiple reading prevention execution unit 524e, and the like are included.

  Here, each time the product code is acquired in the product code acquisition unit 522, the code exit timer unit 524a measures a fixed code exit time (width) t1 that is predetermined for each acquired product code.

  The multiple reading prevention timer unit 524b measures a predetermined multiple reading prevention time (width) t2 when the counting of the code exit time t1 for each product code is completed (that is, when the exit timer times out).

  That is, the multiple reading prevention timer unit 524b of the present embodiment sets the multiple reading prevention time based on the set value (any one of A1, B1, and C1) transmitted from the skill level information processing unit 220 via the information relay unit 320. It is to set.

  The same code determination unit 524c determines whether or not the product code acquired by the product code acquisition unit 522 is the same as the product code transmitted to the POS terminal 3 last time.

  When the multiple code determination unit 524d determines that the same code is determined by the same code determination unit 524c, the time when the current product code is acquired is counting the multiple reading prevention time t2 of the product code transmitted to the POS terminal 3 last time. If it is not timed, it is determined that multiple readings are not being made, and if it is being timed, it is determined that multiple readings are being made.

  The multiple reading prevention execution unit 524e instructs the product code acquisition unit 522 to discard the product code acquired this time when the multiple reading determination unit 524d determines that there are multiple readings. As a result, an unnecessary product code is discarded in the product code acquisition unit 522, so that the unnecessary product code is not transmitted from the scanner device 5 to the POS terminal 3. As a result, the POS terminal 3 does not require the same product. Multiple registration is prevented.

  Further, the multiple reading prevention execution unit 524e sounds the speaker 55 to notify the store clerk with a predetermined sound that unnecessary multiple reading of the product code of the same product has occurred.

  The update skill level determination unit 525 has an addition / subtraction specified value registration table T4 (see FIG. 7D), and updates the skill level value registered in the store staff skill level registration table T1 using the checkout system 6. It is for performing the process to perform.

  More specifically, the update skill level determination unit 525 is transmitted from the store server 2 via the information relay unit 320 and the data transmission / reception unit 521 when a login operation is performed by a store clerk who uses the checkout system 6. A threshold value (any one of A2, B2, and C2) is input and set as an initial value of the skill level determination value X. Thereafter, in the product registration work until the log-off operation by the store clerk is performed, the same product is unnecessary. Each time there are multiple readings, a predetermined specified value is subtracted from the skill level determination value X, and a process of adding the predetermined specified value to the skill level determination value X is executed each time one transaction of a customer is completed.

  As shown in FIG. 7 (d), the addition / subtraction specified value registration table T4 has a skill level determination value X according to the store clerk's actual product registration experience, that is, according to the presence or absence of unnecessary multiple registration of the same product. A predetermined specified value to be added to or subtracted from is registered.

  Specifically, the specified value to be added to the skill level determination value X is a skill level determination value based on the judgment that the salesperson experienced a single transaction and the skill level slightly increased when one transaction for each customer was completed. On the other hand, it is a value to be added to X. On the other hand, the specified value to be subtracted from the skill level judgment value is proficient by judging that the skill level has slightly decreased due to unnecessary multiple readings of the same product during one transaction. This is a value for subtracting from the degree determination value X.

  In the example of FIG. 7D, “a” is associated with the specified value to be added to the skill level determination value X, and “b” is associated with the specified value to be subtracted from the skill level determination value.

  Here, each function component (skill level information processing unit 220, information relay unit 320, and code reading processing unit 520) shown in FIG. 6 is stored in each of the CPUs 201, 301, and 501 such as ROMs 202, 302, and 502. Is realized by expanding and executing the programs stored in the RAM 203, 303 and 503.

  Here, a schematic flow of the check-out process for one transaction per customer in the check-out system 6 described above will be briefly described.

  First, when the bar code BC of the product G taken out from the shopping basket B1 placed on the soccer table 10 by the customer is directed by the customer to the reading window 51a, the scanner device 5 takes an image with the camera 54.

  Then, the product code acquisition unit 522 of the code reading processing unit 522 extracts the barcode BC from the captured image captured by the camera 54, and decodes the extracted barcode BC to acquire the product code. Then, the acquired product code is transmitted to the POS terminal 3.

  Then, the POS terminal 3 stores the acquired product code in the sales file 302a developed in the RAM 303, and then transmits the product code to the store server 2, that is, the product code received from the scanner device 5 Inquire about the corresponding product information.

  Then, the store server 2 searches the product information file 204a for product information corresponding to the received product code, and returns the corresponding product information to the POS terminal 3.

  Then, the POS terminal 3 stores the received product information in the sales file 302a so as to correspond to the corresponding product code, and displays the product information on the cashier display 32 and the customer display 33.

  The POS terminal 3 transmits the received product information to the scanner device 5. Thus, the scanner device 5 displays the product information on the cashier display 52a and the customer display 53.

  That is, in the checkout system 6, the above-described processing is executed for all purchase target products G of one customer.

  When the processing for all the merchandise G to be purchased is completed and a closing operation (for example, pressing operation of the deposit / cash key 31c) is performed by the store clerk, the POS terminal 3 uses the printer as the closing processing. The receipt is issued to 35, the drawer 9 (not shown) is opened, and one transaction processing is completed.

  Next, details of various processing operations in the checkout system 6 having the above-described configuration will be described.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining a procedure of processes executed by the skill level information setting unit 222 of the store server 2 and the update skill level determination unit 525 of the scanner device 5.

  As shown in FIG. 8, first, an operator such as a store manager uses a keyboard 21 and a mouse 22 of the store server 2 to activate a predetermined application for setting skill level information. Then, the skill level information setting unit 222 displays a predetermined setting screen (not shown) for setting skill level information on the display 22.

  In step S11, the operator uses the keyboard 21, mouse 22, or the like to correlate with the information of the clerk number of each clerk in the store, and the skill level value (A, B and C) ) Is entered and finally the confirmation operation is performed. Then, the skill level information setting unit 220b registers the skill level value associated with the clerk number information in the skill level value registration table T1.

  Subsequently, in step S12, the operator uses the keyboard 21, mouse 22, or the like to input a setting value for the multiple reading prevention time corresponding to each skill level value (A, B, and C) and perform a confirmation operation. . Then, the skill level information setting unit 222 registers the set values (A1, B1, and C1) of the multiple reading prevention time corresponding to each skill level value (A, B, and C) in the time width set value registration table T2.

  Subsequently, in step S13, the operator uses the keyboard 21, mouse 22, and the like to input threshold values (A2, B2, and C2) for determining the skill level and perform a confirmation operation. Then, the skill level information setting unit 222 is an initial value of the skill level determination value X for each skill level in the skill level determination threshold registration table T3, and threshold values (A2, B2, and C2) for determining the skill level Are registered in association with each skill level (A, B and C).

  Subsequently, in step S14, the operator inputs a specified value for addition / subtraction by using the keyboard 21, mouse 22, or the like, and performs a confirmation operation. Then, the skill level information setting unit 222 outputs information on the specified value for addition / subtraction to the data transmission unit 221. As a result, the data transmitting / receiving unit 221 transmits the information of the input specified value to the POS terminal 3. Then, the information relay unit 320 transmits the received specified value information to the scanner device 5. Thereby, the update skill level determination unit 525 inputs the specified value information via the data transmission / reception unit 521, and based on the input specified value information, the specified value added to the skill level determination value in the addition / subtraction specified value registration table T4 (A) and the specified value (b) to be subtracted from the skill level determination value are registered.

  In the example of FIG. 8, the form in which the setting value of the multiple reading prevention time, the threshold value, and the specified value of addition / subtraction are set on the store side in steps S12 to S14. The system provider that provides the system 1 may have a configuration in which various setting values in the processes of steps S12 to S14 are fixedly set in advance, and the process of step S11 may be performed on the store side. It is good also as a form which does not perform but sets in the server apparatus side of the headquarters connected to the store server 2. FIG.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the procedure of the automatic update process of the skill level value for each clerk for setting the multiple reading prevention time and determining the multiple reading prevention time in one checkout system 6.

  As shown in FIG. 9, first, as a preparation stage for performing product registration work, the store clerk presses the login key 31a of the keyboard 31 of the POS terminal 3 and presses the numeric key 31d to enter the store clerk number (for example, “1111”). ”, Etc.) is performed, the POS terminal 3 executes a login process (step S101).

  Specifically, in the process of step S101, the POS terminal 3 associates the input clerk number (eg, “1111”) with the product registration process in the sales file 302a using the paired scanner device 5. Execute. Further, in the process of step S101, the skill level specifying unit 223 obtains the skill level value (eg, “A”) associated with the input clerk number (eg, “1111”) from the skill level registration table T1. Search for.

  Subsequently, in the processing of step S102 to step S109, multiple readings corresponding to the skill level of product registration work of the logged-in clerk between the POS terminal 3 and the scanner device 5, that is, the skill level value (eg, “A”). A prevention time setting process and an initial value setting process of the skill level determination value X are performed.

  More specifically, the set value search unit 224 searches the set value registration table T2 for a set value (eg, “A1”) of the multiple reading prevention time corresponding to the skill level value (eg, “A”), The searched installation value (eg, “A1”) is output to the data transmission / reception unit 221 and the threshold value search unit 225 initially sets an initial value (eg, “A2”) corresponding to the skill level (eg, “A”). A search is made from the value registration table T3, and the searched initial value (eg, “A2”) is output to the data transmitting / receiving unit 221.

  Then, the data transmission / reception unit 221 transmits the input set value (for example, “A1”) and threshold (for example, “A2”) to the scanner device 5 via the data transmission / reception unit 321 of the information relay unit 320.

  Thereby, in step S103, step S106, step S108, etc., in the scanner device 5, the multiple reading prevention timer unit 524b prevents multiple readings corresponding to the set value (for example, “A1”) input via the data transmission / reception unit 521. Set a time (eg, “3 seconds”). In step S104, step S107, step S109, and the like, the update skill level determination unit 525 sets the threshold value (eg, “A2”) input via the data transmission / reception unit 521 as the initial value of the skill level determination value X.

  Thereafter, in the processes of steps S110 to S114, the addition skill of the skill level determination value X by the update skill level determination unit 525 is executed.

  More specifically, in step S110, the store clerk performs a product registration operation for causing the scanner device 5 to read the barcode BC attached to the product G in the customer's shopping basket B1. Then, in the scanner device 5, the product code acquisition unit 522 reads the barcode BC of the product G, acquires the product code from the read barcode BC, and temporarily holds the product code.

  Subsequently, in step S <b> 111, in the scanner device 5, the same code determination unit 524 c of the multiple reading prevention processing unit 524 determines whether or not the product code acquired this time is the same as the product code transmitted to the POS terminal 3 last time. As a result of the determination, if it is determined that they are not identical, the product code acquisition unit 522 outputs the product code acquired this time to the data transmission / reception unit 521. As a result, the product code input by the data transmission / reception unit 521 is transmitted to the POS terminal 3, so that the POS terminal 3 performs processing for registering the product information of the sales product G in the sales file 302a based on the received product code. Is done.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S111 that they are the same, then in step S115, the scanner device 5 performs a canceling process on the commodity G by pressing the cancel key 52b-5 of the store clerk. It is determined whether or not.

  As a result of this determination, when it is determined that the canceling process has been performed, that is, the store clerk notices unnecessary multiple registration of the same product by the display on the cashier displays 32 and 52a, and presses the cancel key 52b-5. If this is the case (step S115: YES), then in step S116, the update skill level determination unit 525 executes a process of subtracting the specified value b from the skill level determination value X.

  Moreover, when it determines with it not being the same by determination of step S111 (step S111: NO), or when it is determined that cancellation processing is not performed by determination of step S115, ie, the required same goods In the case of continuous merchandise registration (step S115: NO), or after the processing of step S116, subsequently, in step S112, the POS terminal 3 performs an operation of pressing the deposit / cash key 31c of the POS terminal 3 or the like. It is determined whether or not a predetermined tightening operation has been performed in one transaction per customer. If the tightening operation has not been performed (step S112: NO), the process returns to step S110, and the same processing is performed thereafter.

  On the other hand, if a predetermined tightening operation is performed according to the determination in step S112 (step S112: YES), then, in step S113, the update skill level determination unit 525 adds the specified value a to the skill level determination value X. Execute the process.

  Subsequently, in step S114, it is determined whether or not the logout key 31b has been pressed by the store clerk. If the result of this determination is that the logout key 31b has not been pressed (step S114: NO), the process proceeds to step S110. Return to the following and perform the same processing.

  On the other hand, if the logout key 31b is pressed in the determination in step S114 (step S114: YES), then, the process of updating the skill level value of the store clerk is executed in the processes in steps S117 to S121. .

  More specifically, the update skill level determination unit 525 determines the skill level corresponding to the current skill level determination value X and the skill level A, “A2”, and the skill level corresponding to the skill level B When the relationship of “skill level determination value X ≧ threshold value A2” is established (step S117: YES), the updated skill level is “A”. It is determined that there is, and the updated skill level value “A” information is output to the data transmitting / receiving unit 521. As a result, the updated skill level value “A” information is transmitted from the data transmitting / receiving unit 521 to the store server 2 via the information relay unit 320 of the POS terminal 3. As a result, the skill level information setting unit 222 updates the skill level value associated with the corresponding clerk number (“1111”) to “A” (step S118). Then, the process here is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the relationship of “A2> skill level determination value X ≧ B2” is established (step S117: NO → step S119: YES), it is determined that the updated skill level is “B”, and the above description is made. Through similar transmission processing, the updated skill level determination unit 525 transmits the updated skill level “B” information to the store server 2, whereby the skill level information setting unit 222 corresponds to the corresponding clerk number (“1111”). The skill level value associated with is updated to “B” (step S120). Then, the process here is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the relationship of “skill level determination value X <B2” is established (step S119: NO), it is determined that the updated skill level is “C”, and the transmission process is the same as described above. The updated skill level determination unit 525 transmits the updated skill level “C” information to the store server 2, and the skill level information setting unit 222 is associated with the corresponding clerk number (“1111”). The skill level value is updated to “C” (step S121). Then, the process here is terminated.

(Modification)
FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining a modified example of the processing procedure of FIG. 9. In this case, in the processing procedure of FIG. 9, the processing in step S113 is deleted, and instead the processing in step S113 is performed. 9 is the same as the processing procedure of FIG. 9 except for the portion inserted between the processing of step S130, which is the same processing as that in step S115, after the NO determination in step S115 and after the processing of step S116. Therefore, explanation here is omitted.

  That is, in the processing procedure of FIG. 9 described above, when the store / cash key by the store clerk is pressed and one customer's one commercial transaction is completed, the specified value is added to the skill level determination value X (step S113). In other words, the embodiment has been described in which the processing is considered that the skill level has slightly increased. However, in the processing procedure of FIG. 10, the specified value a is added to the skill level determination value X every time a necessary product is registered. It has a form to do.

  According to such a form, every time the number of product registration work experience increases, the processing considering the improvement of the product registration work, that is, every time the clerk performs a normal scanning operation, the skill level is slightly increased. It is possible to execute processing that is considered.

  That is, according to the embodiment described above, the multiple reading prevention time set by the scanner device 5 is changed and set according to the skill level of the product reading work of the store clerk who uses the scanner device 5. Therefore, unnecessary multiple product registration by a store clerk unfamiliar with product registration can be prevented, and it is possible to avoid a reduction in work efficiency of necessary continuous registration of the same product by a store clerk accustomed to product registration. In addition, this makes it possible to improve the customer service at the time of settlement, so that it is possible to improve the operating profit of the store.

  Further, according to the above-described embodiment, the clerk's identification number is determined according to the contents of the clerk's actual product registration work, i.e., the number of necessary product registrations and the presence or absence of unnecessary multiple registration of the same product. Since the system is configured to automatically update the skill level value registered in association with each other, it is possible to provide an appropriate customer service according to the growth of the skill level of the store clerk.

  The present invention has been described based on the exemplary embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the technical idea expressed by the claims. It is possible to make changes and modifications.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the form in which the skill level of each clerk is individually set in advance has been described, but besides this, first, a predetermined skill level value (common to all clerk) ( For example, it is possible to set a standard skill level “B”) and change the skill level value of each clerk according to the actual product registration experience of each clerk. It is. According to such a form, it is possible to save the labor of actual measurement work of evaluating and setting the skill level value of each clerk.

  In the embodiment described above, the configuration as illustrated in FIG. 6 has been described as the functional configuration for executing the processing illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10. 220 may be implemented in the POS terminal 320 or the scanner device 5 instead of the store server 2, and the scanner device 5 may be implemented with the store clerk number reception unit 322 and the skill level information processing unit 220. It is possible to adopt various forms.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the scanner device 5 has been described in which the barcode BC described in a predetermined code system such as a JAN code is read as the barcode BC attached to the product G. The scanner device 5 as a code reading device that reads other codes such as a two-dimensional code attached to the product G can also be used.

  In the above-described embodiment, the form in which the clerk's clerk number is input from the keyboard 31 of the POS terminal 3 has been described. However, for example, a form in which the clerk's clerk number is input from the keyboard 52b of the scanner device 5 is also possible. Alternatively, it is also possible to adopt a form in which the store clerk number is input by scanning the bar code printed on a medium such as a card possessed by the store clerk with the scanner device 5.

  In the above-described embodiment, the scanner device 5 having a reading unit including the camera 54 and the image processing unit 508 has been described. However, for example, a laser beam or the like is emitted to the barcode BC of the product G. It is also possible to provide a scanner device 5 having a reading unit including an optical device that receives reflected light and converts it into an electrical signal, and a converter that converts the electrical signal to obtain a product code of the barcode BC. is there.

  In the above-described embodiment, the scanner device 5 having only one reading window 51a formed on the surface facing the store clerk has been described. However, in addition to this, for example, in addition to the above-described reading window 51a, It is also possible to make the scanner device 5 in such a form that it includes a reading window formed on the upper surface of the housing installed on the upper surface of the soccer table 10, that is, the surface horizontal to the soccer table 10 and perpendicular to the reading window 51a. It is.

  In the above-described embodiment, the case where the drawer 9 is applied as a device for storing reserve money or money received from a customer has been described. However, in addition to this, for example, in response to a payout command signal from the POS terminal 3 It is also possible to apply an automatic change machine that automatically pays out change money.

  In the above-described embodiment, the case where the various displays (32, 33, 52a, and 53) of the POS terminal 3 and the scanner device 5 are mere display devices has been described. It is also possible.

  In addition, various programs executed by the store server 2, the POS terminal 3, and the scanner device 5 according to the above-described embodiments are files in an installable format or executable format, such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD- R, DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), USB (Universal Serial Bus), etc. may be configured to be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium and provided, or distributed via a network such as the Internet. You may comprise.

  In addition, the apparatus configuration and functional configuration in the above-described embodiment, or setting values set in various tables are described merely as examples, and the present invention is not limited thereto.

1 POS system (product registration system)
2 Store server (host device)
3, 3A-3N POS terminal (higher-level device)
4 LAN
5, 5A-5N Scanner device (code reader)
6, 6A-6N Checkout system (product registration system)
G product BC barcode 220 skill level information processing unit 221 data transmission / reception unit (transmission means)
222 Skill level information setting unit (storage means, skill level change means)
223 skill level identification part (acquisition means)
224 Setting value search unit (search means)
225 Threshold value search unit 320 Information relay unit 321 Data transmission / reception unit 322 Clerk number reception unit 520 Code reading processing unit 521 Data transmission / reception unit (reception means)
522 Product code acquisition unit 523 Normal notification unit 524 Multiple reading prevention processing unit 524a Code exit timer unit 524b Multiple reading prevention timer unit (time setting means)
524c Same code determination section 524d Multiple reading determination section 524e Multiple reading prevention execution section (multiple reading prevention means)
525 Update skill level determination unit (skill level update means)
T1 skill level value registration table T2 time width setting value registration table T3 skill level determination threshold value registration table T4 addition / subtraction specified value registration table

JP 2009-93289 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-14419

Claims (6)

A code reading device that reads a code attached to a product, acquires a product code from the read code, and transmits the product code to a host device,
Time setting means for changing and setting a multiple reading prevention time for preventing unnecessary multiple registration of the same product according to the skill level of the product registration work of the operator who uses the code reading device;
If the same product code as the product code transmitted to the host device is acquired within the multiple reading prevention time set by the time setting means, the predetermined error that does not transmit the acquired product code to the host device Multiple reading prevention means for executing processing;
A code reading device comprising:   The skill level update means for updating the skill level registered in advance in association with the identification information of the operator according to the contents of the actual product registration work of the operator. Code reader. The skill level update means includes:
Prior to the use of the operator's code reader, an initial value of the skill level determination value associated with the skill level of the operator is set,
During the product registration work of the operator, the specified value is added to or subtracted from the skill level determination value according to the content of the product registration work,
3. The code reading according to claim 2, wherein when the operator finishes using the code reading device, the skill level determination value is compared with a preset threshold value to determine the updated skill level. apparatus. A program for reading a code attached to a product, obtaining a product code from the read code, and transmitting the product code to a host device, and causing the computer to execute the program,
A time setting step in which the time setting means changes and sets the multiple reading prevention time according to the skill level of the product registration work of the operator who uses the code reading device;
When the multiple reading prevention means acquires the same product code as the product code transmitted to the upper device last time within the multiple reading prevention time set by the time setting step, the acquired product code is sent to the upper device. A multiple reading prevention execution step for executing predetermined error processing not transmitted to
For causing the computer to execute. Storage means for storing skill level information in which the skill level of the product registration work of the operator is associated with each operator's identification information, and setting information of a multiple reading prevention time predetermined according to the level of the skill level A program for causing a computer mounted on a host device to receive a product code transmitted from a code reader,
An obtaining step for obtaining identification information of an operator who uses the code reader;
A search step for searching for the setting information corresponding to the identification information acquired in the acquisition step from the storage unit;
A transmitting step for transmitting the setting information searched in the searching step to the code reading device;
For causing the computer to execute. Product registration comprising a code reading device that reads a code attached to a product, acquires a product code from the read code, and transmits the code to the outside, and a host device that receives the product code transmitted from the code reading device A system,
The host device is
Storage means for storing skill level information in which the skill level of the product registration work of the operator is associated with each operator's identification information, and setting information of a plurality of reading prevention times predetermined according to the level of the skill level; ,
Obtaining means for obtaining identification information of an operator who uses the code reader;
A search unit that searches the storage unit for the setting information corresponding to the identification information acquired by the acquisition unit;
Transmitting means for transmitting the setting information searched by the searching means to the code reader;
Have
The code reader is
Receiving means for receiving the setting information transmitted by the transmitting means;
Time setting means for changing and setting the multiple reading prevention time according to the setting information received by the receiving means;
If the same product code as the product code transmitted to the host device is acquired within the multiple reading prevention time set by the time setting means, the predetermined error that does not transmit the acquired product code to the host device Multiple reading prevention means for executing processing;
A product registration system characterized by comprising:

Images