JP2012164137A - Settlement system, registration device, and settlement device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a settlement system in which a registration device and a settlement device are separated, which can highly efficiently perform a settlement process as a store while suppressing an introduction cost and dispenses with an extra space.SOLUTION: The registration device includes: first registration means that, in a first registration mode, stores information related to a registered article in a predetermined storage area; and second registration means that, in a second registration mode, outputs medium including an accounting code for specifying the information related to the registered article, to an output section. The settlement device includes: first settlement means that, in a first settlement mode, performs a settlement based on the information related to the article stored in the predetermined storage area; and second settlement means that, in a second settlement mode, performs the settlement based on the information read from the accounting code by a reading section.

Description

  The present invention relates to a payment system, a registration device, and a payment device.

As a general payment system used in supermarkets and the like, there is a system consisting of a registration device for purchasing a product and a payment device for payment based on data registered by the registration device. This device is also operated by a store clerk. Therefore, when the number of customers increases, the store clerk must perform both the registration operation and the checkout, and cannot perform processing quickly, resulting in a so-called cash register waiting in front of the registration device. End up.
In addition, in the above general payment system, there are also operations where registration and payment are performed by two store clerk. Even in this case, for example, registration has been completed, but it takes time to send and receive money at the payment stage. When the customer who is present is on the spot, the customer who has completed the next registration cannot be settled, causing a waiting for the cash register as described above.
In order to solve this problem, there is a settlement system in which a registration device and a settlement device are separated, a store clerk performs product registration with the registration device, and a customer himself / herself with a settlement device arranged at a separate location (for example, a patent) Reference 1). In this system, since the settlement apparatus is located at a position away from the registration apparatus, the customer moves to the settlement apparatus as soon as registration is completed. Therefore, it is possible to shorten the waiting time of the customer who waits for the transaction in front of the registration device, and to reduce the waiting time for the register.

JP 2010-86202 A

However, the general settlement system is a dedicated system for the store clerk to operate both the registration device and the settlement device. The system disclosed in Patent Document 1 is also operated by the store clerk. The device is a dedicated system that is always operated by the customer. Therefore, for example, when it is desired to introduce a system as disclosed in Patent Document 1 in a store where the general payment system is introduced, the dedicated system must be introduced. Moreover, even if the system is introduced, even in a time zone when there are few customers, the system requires a customer who is unfamiliar with the settlement operation to perform the settlement process, and the settlement process cannot be performed efficiently.
In such a time zone, in order to increase the settlement efficiency, it is conceivable that the system is not operated and the settlement is performed by the general settlement system. In that case, it is necessary to install a system that does not operate as a store, and the limited store space cannot be used effectively. In the past, each of the dedicated systems had to be introduced, and the introduction cost was high.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object of the present invention is to efficiently perform a settlement process as a store while suppressing introduction costs in a settlement system in which a cash register is separated into a registration apparatus and a settlement apparatus. An object of the present invention is to provide a settlement system, a registration device and a settlement device that do not require extra space.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and one aspect of the present invention is a registration device for registering a product purchased by a customer, and a settlement device for paying the price of the product registered by the registration device. The registration apparatus includes: an output unit that outputs a medium that can be held; and a first registration unit that stores and registers information on the registered product in a predetermined storage area in a freely readable manner. And a second registration means for registering the medium including the accounting code for specifying information relating to the registered product by outputting the medium from the output unit, and the settlement apparatus obtains the accounting code from the medium. A reading unit that reads, and information related to the product stored in the predetermined storage area, corresponding to the first registration unit, is read in the order of registration in the first registration unit, and the read quotient First settlement means for settlement based on information about the second settlement means corresponding to the second registration means, and second settlement means for settlement based on information read from the accounting code by the reading unit; It is characterized by providing.

According to this invention, in the first registration means and the first settlement means, the registration device stores information relating to the registered product in a predetermined storage area, and the settlement device relates to the product stored in the storage area. Information is read out in the registered order and settled. For this reason, the first registration means and the first settlement means are operated by a store clerk like a normal cash register. In the second registration unit and the second settlement unit, the registration unit outputs a medium including an accounting code for specifying information on the registered product, and the settlement unit adds information read from the accounting code. Check out based on. For this reason, since the settlement is performed by reading the medium of the accounting code, the order does not necessarily have to be registered. In the second registration means and the second settlement means, the clerk operates the registration device, The customer can operate the payment apparatus. Thereby, in one settlement system, registration and settlement can be performed by two methods. When the first registration means and the first settlement means, which are ordinary cashier settlement systems, are operated, for example, when the number of customers at the store increases and the number of customers in front of the registration device increases, 2 registration means and second settlement means.
As a result, the store clerk who operates the registration device can start the next customer's registration operation as long as the registration operation is executed, and the registered customer receives the voucher with the accounting code printed from the store clerk. You can move to the device and check it out yourself. Therefore, the time that customers stay in front of the registration device is shortened. As a result, even if the number of customers increases, the number of customers waiting in front of the registration device can be reduced, and the number of customers It is possible to prevent giving so-called cash register waiting time.
Further, for example, in the time zone when the number of customers visiting the store is small, the first registration means and the first settlement means are used. Thereby, since it is operated by a store clerk who is used to registration and settlement operations, the settlement process can be efficiently performed as a store. And since it has two types of settlement systems in this way, both systems can be used, so there is no time zone during which the system does not operate, and there is no need for extra spaces. Moreover, since it is not necessary to introduce a dedicated system as in the prior art, the introduction cost can be reduced.
In this case, both the first registration means and the second registration means are enabled, and after all products to be purchased are registered, the end of registration is declared, for example, the first key is pressed. If the second key is pressed, it is processed by the first registration means, and if the second key is pressed, the second registration means may be processed. Further, in the settlement means, both the first settlement means and the second settlement means are validated. For example, when the accounting code is read by the reading unit, the settlement is performed by the second settlement means, For example, when a predetermined key on the settlement apparatus 20 is pressed, the first settlement unit may perform settlement.

According to another aspect of the present invention, in the payment system described above, the first registration unit and the second registration unit can be switched, and the first settlement unit and the second settlement unit are switched. It is characterized by comprising switching means for freely performing the switching.
Thereby, it is possible to switch between the first registration means and the second registration means, and to switch between the first settlement means and the second settlement means. You can change the checkout system. Further, the switching means may be a switching means for switching each of switching between the first registration means and the second registration means and switching between the first settlement means and the second settlement means. Either a switching unit that switches between the switching between the first registration unit and the second registration unit and the switching between the first settlement unit and the second settlement unit may be used. Further, this switching means may be included in a registration device, a payment device, or a management device or a host device that can communicate with each device.
Even if the second registration means is switched, the store operation is performed by the store clerk. That is, merchandise registration is performed mainly by causing the scanner unit to read a barcode attached to the merchandise. However, the clerk accustomed to the operation can perform the entire checkout process quickly.

Further, one aspect of the present invention is characterized in that in the above-described payment system, payment by the first payment means is prohibited at the time of the second registration means.
According to this invention, when the registration is performed by the second registration unit, the settlement by the first settlement unit is prohibited. As a result, when the customer pays, the first checkout means will not be charged by mistake, resulting in no confusion.

  According to another aspect of the present invention, in the payment system described above, the switching unit includes switching between the first registration unit and the second registration unit, and the first settlement unit and the second settlement unit. It is also characterized by switching between means. As a result, the registration means and the settlement means can be switched by a single operation, so that the operability is improved, and the corresponding switching means can be switched, so that the registration device is switched to the second registration means. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the trouble that the settlement apparatus operates in the state of the first settlement means or vice versa.

  According to another aspect of the present invention, in the above settlement system, the second registration unit and the second settlement unit are selected, and the second registration unit is registered while the second registration unit is selected. Registration storage means for storing information relating to transactions, and settlement storage means for storing information relating to transactions settled while the second settlement means is selected, and stored in the registration storage means Based on the information relating to the transaction and the information relating to the transaction stored in the settlement storage means, it is determined whether all the transactions registered in the second registration means have been settled, and all the transactions are settled. In the case where it is determined that the registration information is not registered, only the registration is permitted to be switched from the second registration unit to the first registration unit.

According to the present invention, since there is a customer who is in the process of settlement or not yet settled, the settlement apparatus can be settled without confusion by letting the customer settle with the second settlement means, and the registration apparatus can By using the first registration means, it is possible to start registration with the first registration means without waiting for the customer's payment to be completed, and a quick registration device can be achieved. The registered registration data is stored in a predetermined storage unit of the registration device in the order of registration. Then, after the settlement of the customer of the settlement apparatus is completed, the second settlement means is switched to the first settlement means, and the settlement apparatus and the registration apparatus can communicate with each other, so that the code information of the registered product is registered. In order, the payment may be read out by the payment apparatus 20 and adjusted. In this case, the storage means is not limited to the registration means, and is stored in a communicable higher-level device, and the registration data stored in the storage means of the higher-level device is read when switching to the first settlement means. You may make it settle.

  One embodiment of the present invention is a registration device in a checkout system having a registration device for registering a product purchased by a customer and a checkout device for paying the price of the product registered by the registration device. An output unit for outputting a medium; first registration means for storing and registering information relating to the registered product in a predetermined storage area so as to be readable; and a medium for accounting that specifies information relating to the registered product Is output to the output unit and registered, and the first registration unit and the second registration unit are switchable.

  According to this invention, the 1st registration means which memorize | stores the information regarding the registered goods in a predetermined storage area, and the 2nd registration means which outputs the medium containing the code for accounting which specifies the information regarding the registered goods Therefore, there is no need to prepare a dedicated registration device for each.

  Another aspect of the present invention is a settlement apparatus in a settlement system having a registration apparatus for registering a product purchased by a customer and a settlement apparatus for settlement of the price of the product registered by the registration apparatus, wherein the registration apparatus Information relating to the product registered and registered in the predetermined storage area, and information relating to the registered product registered in the registration device is read out based on the read information relating to the product. A second settlement unit that is output to the medium as an accounting code and settles based on the accounting code read by the reading unit, wherein the first settlement unit and the second settlement unit are It is switchable.

  According to the present invention, since the first settlement means performs settlement based on the information read from the storage area, the clerk can operate the settlement apparatus like a normal cash register. On the other hand, in the second settlement means, the settlement apparatus performs settlement based on information read from the accounting code, so that the customer can operate the settlement apparatus. Since the first settlement means and the second settlement means can be switched, there is no need to prepare a dedicated registration device for each.

According to the present invention, in the first registration means and the first settlement means, the registration device stores information relating to the registered product in a predetermined storage area, and the settlement device relates to the product stored in the storage area. Information is read out in the registered order and settled. For this reason, the first registration means and the first settlement means are operated by a store clerk like a normal cash register. In the second registration unit and the second settlement unit, the registration unit outputs a medium including an accounting code for specifying information on the registered product, and the settlement unit adds information read from the accounting code. Check out based on. For this reason, in the second registration means and the second settlement means, the store clerk can operate the registration apparatus, and the customer can operate the settlement apparatus. Thereby, in one settlement system, registration and settlement can be performed by two methods. When the first registration means and the first settlement means, which are ordinary cashier settlement systems, are operated, for example, when the number of customers at the store increases and the number of customers in front of the registration device increases, 2 registration means and second settlement means.
As a result, the store clerk who operates the registration device can start the next customer's registration operation as long as the registration operation is executed, and the registered customer receives the voucher with the accounting code printed from the store clerk. You can move to the device and check it out yourself. Therefore, the time that customers stay in front of the registration device is shortened. As a result, even if the number of customers increases, the number of customers waiting in front of the registration device can be reduced, and the number of customers It is possible to prevent giving so-called cash register waiting time.
Further, for example, in the time zone when the number of customers visiting the store is small, the first registration means and the first settlement means are used. Thereby, since it is operated by a store clerk who is used to registration and settlement operations, the settlement process can be efficiently performed as a store. And since it has two types of payment systems in this way, both systems can be used, the time zone when a system does not operate does not arise, and an unnecessary super space becomes unnecessary.

It is the schematic which shows a mode that the payment system by embodiment of this invention is operating. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the registration apparatus by this embodiment. It is the schematic which shows the data structure of the registration file which memorize | stores the registration data by this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the payment apparatus by this embodiment. It is the schematic which shows the adjustment file which the adjustment apparatus by this embodiment produces | generates. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of the goods registration process in the registration apparatus by this embodiment. It is the schematic which shows the example of the accounting sheet which the registration apparatus by this embodiment issues. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of the adjustment process in the adjustment apparatus by this embodiment. It is a sequence diagram which shows the operation | movement of the mode switching process by this embodiment.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a state in which a settlement system according to an embodiment of the present invention is operating. The payment system is installed in a store or the like, and includes a registration device 10 that performs product registration and a payment device 20 that performs payment settlement. In the settlement system in the present embodiment, the first mode in which the clerk T operates both the registration apparatus 10 and the settlement apparatus 20, the registration apparatus 10 is operated by the clerk T, and the settlement apparatus 20 is operated by the customer C. And two modes of operation. That is, the registration device 10 and the payment device 20 each have a registration unit and a payment unit that operate in accordance with each of the above modes, and can be switched and used as described later.

FIG. 1A shows the arrangement of the devices in the first mode, and the clerk T operates both the registration device 10 and the payment device 20. In the first mode, the registration device 10 is installed on the table 30 operated by the store clerk T, and the settlement device 20 is installed near the registration device 10.
The clerk T registers the product by operating the registration device 10 and causing the scanner 104 of the registration device 10 to read a barcode (code information) attached to the product purchased by the customer C. Then, when the product registration of all the products purchased by the customer C is completed, the store clerk T calls the registered product at the settlement device 20 and performs the settlement of the customer C in a well-known normal settlement system. It is a form. That is, in this case, the registration data registered by the registration apparatus 10 is always settled by the settlement apparatus 20 located in the vicinity of the registration apparatus 10, so that the registration apparatus 10 and the settlement apparatus 20 have a one-to-one relationship. It becomes a relationship. In the case of this system, the store clerk T has to operate both the registration device 10 and the checkout device 20. If the number of customers increases, for example, in the evening hours, the store clerk T The number of customers lined up will increase, and being lined up will cause discomfort.
In addition, there is an operation in which two clerk T operate the registration apparatus 10 and the settlement apparatus 20, but in this case, when there is a customer who is taking time to send and receive money at the settlement apparatus. As described above, the number of customers lined up in front of the recording device 10 increases.

FIG. 1B shows the arrangement of each device in the second mode, and when the settlement apparatus 20 is moved from the position in FIG. 1A and arranged at a position away from the registration apparatus 10. The installation position of the registration apparatus 10 and the adjustment apparatus 20 is shown. In this case, the clerk T operates the registration device 10, and the customer C operates the checkout device 20.
In the second mode, the settlement apparatus 20 in FIG. 1A moves to a position away from the registration apparatus 10, but the registration apparatus 10 and the settlement apparatus 20 do not have to be one-to-one. The number of checkout devices 20 may be larger than that of the device 10. That is, in addition to the settlement apparatus 20 moved from FIG. 1A, the customer C registered by the registration apparatus 10 is one of the plurality of settlement apparatuses 20 by preparing a dedicated settlement apparatus 20. Since the payment can be made by the checkout device 20, the number of customers lined up in front of the registration device 10 can be further reduced.
The store clerk T operates the registration device 10 to register the product by causing the registration device 10 to read the barcode attached to the product purchased by the customer C. When the registration of all the products purchased by the customer C is completed, the registration device 10 converts the code information about the registered products into a two-dimensional code (accounting code), and a slip (medium) on which the code is printed ). The clerk T hands the issued slip to the customer C, the customer receives the issued slip, moves to the place where the checkout device 20 is installed, and sets the two-dimensional code printed on the slip to the checkout device 20. The scanner unit 204 is caused to read the data so that the payment is executed.
That is, in FIG. 1 (a), when the number of customers in the store increases and the number of customers who are lined up in front of the registration device 10 increases, the next customer is switched to the checkout system as shown in FIG. As described above, the registered customer receives the slip printed with the accounting code from the store clerk T and moves it to the checkout apparatus 20. Therefore, the time in which the customer C stays in front of the registration device 10 is shortened. As a result, even if the number of customers increases, the number of customers waiting in front of the registration device 10 can be reduced. It is possible to prevent customers from giving a lot of so-called cash register waiting time.

  In addition, in the evening time zone when the number of customers visiting the store is relatively high and late at night, by switching from the payment system shown in FIG. 1 (b) to the payment system shown in FIG. 1 (a), When the store clerk who is used to the registration and settlement is performed, the settlement process can be performed efficiently. In addition, by switching and using the same device, there is no time zone when it does not operate, and no extra space is required.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the registration apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment.
The registration device 10 is operated by the store clerk T, reads the product code from the barcode attached to the product purchased by the customer C, and registers the product. The product code is identification information for identifying each product, and is, for example, a JAN code. Then, the registration device 10 reads the barcode and generates registration data indicating the registered product. The registration device 10 includes a first registration mode (first registration unit) corresponding to the first mode, and a second registration mode (second registration unit) corresponding to the second mode. The program corresponding to each mode switched by a switching button described later is read from the ROM 102 and operated.

  The registration device 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, a scanner unit 104, a store clerk display unit 105, a customer display unit 106, A hard disk 107, a store clerk operation unit 108, a communication unit 109, a buzzer 110, a printing unit 111, and a bus 112. These are connected to each other via a bus 112.

The ROM 102 stores a product registration program corresponding to the first registration mode and the second registration mode for causing the CPU 101 to execute a product registration process.
A product registration program read from the ROM 102 is expanded in the RAM 103. The RAM 103 temporarily stores various variables and data generated by executing the product registration program. Further, the RAM 103 temporarily stores registration data in the processing area. In addition, the RAM 103 stores the current operation mode (first registration mode or second registration mode) of the registration device 10. The RAM 103 stores an employee number table indicating employee numbers of employees whose operation modes can be switched.

  The scanner unit 104 is a scanner that optically reads a barcode. The scanner unit 104 optically reads the product code from the barcode attached to the product by the operation of the store clerk T, and stores the read product code in the RAM 103.

The CPU 101 reads the product registration program stored in the ROM 102, expands it in the RAM 103, and executes the steps of the expanded product registration program, thereby controlling the registration device 10 as a whole.
In the first registration mode, the CPU (first registration means) 101 transmits registration data (product code information, transaction number, etc.), which is information related to the product registered, to the settlement apparatus 20 after the product registration is completed. Then, the data is stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 203 of the settlement apparatus 20, and the stored registration data is read by a predetermined key operation of the settlement apparatus 20. In this embodiment, the CPU (first registration unit) 101 transmits registration data to the settlement apparatus 20, but for example, a common storage area in which both the registration apparatus 10 and the settlement apparatus 20 can read and write. The registration data may be stored in. This common storage area may be provided in either the registration device 10 or the payment device 20. On the other hand, in the second registration mode, the CPU 101 (second registration unit) issues a slip by causing the printing unit 111 to print a two-dimensional code for specifying registration data after the product registration is completed. That is, in the first registration mode, registration is performed without driving the printing unit 111, and in the second registration mode means, the printing unit 111 is driven to print and register the two-dimensional code on the slip. This is because, in the first settlement mode corresponding to the first registration mode, the registration data is read in the order registered by the key operation on the settlement apparatus 20, so that it is not necessary to print the registration data as a two-dimensional code in the first place. There is no need to issue useless paper. In the second settlement mode corresponding to the second registration mode, since the customer himself / herself moves to the settlement apparatus 20 and settles, the settlement is not necessarily performed in the registered order. It is printed with a two-dimensional code that can specify registered data.
Further, the CPU 101 displays the product name, subtotal amount, etc. of the purchased product on the salesclerk display unit 105 based on the product code read by the scanner unit 104 and the product file (not shown) stored in the hard disk 107. Let The product file is a file including data related to products handled by the store, and stores, for example, code information of products, product names and sales prices in association with each other.

  The clerk display unit 105 is, for example, a liquid crystal display device, and displays information to the clerk T. Here, the information displayed by the clerk display unit 105 is, for example, the product name of the purchased product, the number of purchases, and the sales price.

  The customer display unit 106 is, for example, a liquid crystal display device, presents information to the customer C, and displays, for example, the product name, the number of purchases, and the price of the purchased product.

  The hard disk 107 is, for example, a magnetic recording device, and stores a product file in which a sales price and a product name are set corresponding to the code information of the product in order to specify each product. In the second registration mode, a registration file for storing code information of products registered for each transaction described later is stored.

The clerk operation unit 108 is provided with a switching button (switching means) for switching between the first registration mode and the second registration mode, a number key for designating and inputting an amount of money, and registration of all products purchased by the customer. It has a current total key for designating and inputting completion. Note that the registration device 10 and the settlement device 20 are either in the case of FIGS. 1A and 1B, via a wired or wireless LAN connection, or via a higher-level device that can communicate with each device. Since it is configured to be communicable, by switching from the first registration mode to the second registration mode with the switching button, the first settlement mode and the second settlement mode in the settlement apparatus 20 described later are simultaneously performed. It is controlled to be switched.
Further, the clerk operation unit 108 may include a product designation key set in advance for inputting product data of a specific product that is frequently used. As a result, for a specific product, the product code of the specific product is registered by an operation of pressing the product designation key corresponding to the product instead of the operation of causing the scanner unit 104 to read the barcode attached to the product. Register products in addition to data.

The communication unit 109 is a communication interface for communicating with an external apparatus (for example, the payment apparatus 20) via the LAN.
The buzzer 110 is a sound generator for generating a confirmation sound and a warning sound. The buzzer 110 generates a sound, for example, when the scanner unit 104 normally reads a barcode, when each key of the store clerk operation unit 108 is pressed, or when an incorrect operation is performed. .
The printing unit (output unit) 111 prints and discharges the two-dimensional code generated by the CPU 101 on a slip (paper medium).

FIG. 3 shows the structure of a registration file that stores, for each transaction, the code information of the product registered in the registration device 10 together with the date and time data when the transaction was performed when the second registration mode is selected. FIG.
The transaction number is identification information for identifying each transaction. When registration of the previous transaction is completed by pressing the current key, the transaction number is incremented by “1” and temporarily stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 103. When registration of the next transaction is started, the code information of the products registered in a predetermined area of the RAM 103 is temporarily stored in sequence, and when the registration is completed and the current key is pressed, the code information of the product is stored in the predetermined area of the RAM 103. The transaction number temporarily stored and the code information of the product are stored in the registration file of FIG. As described above, the transaction number is incremented by “1”, temporarily stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 103, and prepared for the next transaction.
In the first registration mode, the transaction number temporarily stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 103 and the code information of the registered product are stored in the RAM 203 of the settlement apparatus 20 so as to be callable. It is not stored in the registration file. In the first registration mode, both the registration device 10 and the settlement device 20 are operated by the store clerk, so the registered transaction cannot be settled, and is temporarily stored in the RAM 203 and stored as a result of being called and settled. In the settlement file, which product is settled in which transaction is stored.
For example, even when the transaction number is changed from the first registration mode to the second registration mode, the transaction number counted up and temporarily stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 103 is continuously used.
On the other hand, in the second registration mode, since the settlement is performed by the customer at the settlement apparatus 20, the registered transaction is traded to confirm whether or not the registered transaction has been settled as described later. I remember it every time.

  Further, as the “current” flag in FIG. 3, “1” is stored when currently registered in the second registration mode. Thereby, the registration apparatus 10 and the payment apparatus 20 can grasp | ascertain the transaction registered in the present 2nd registration mode, and the number of cases by the transaction in which "1" is memorize | stored. “0” means not a transaction in the current second registration mode but a transaction in the second registration mode performed in the past. Then, when the mode is switched from the second registration mode to the first registration mode with the switching button of the clerk operation unit 108, the CPU 101 changes “1” to “0” and stores it. Thereafter, when registration is newly started in the second registration mode, “1” is stored in the “current” flag from the transaction in which the second registration mode is started as described above. As a result, the transaction number of the transaction in which “1” is stored in the current flag in the registration file becomes the transaction registered in the current second registration mode, and all of them are stored in the settlement apparatus 20 described later. By determining whether or not it is included in the transaction number of the settlement file to be stored, it is possible to determine whether or not all settlement of transactions registered during the current second registration mode has been completed. Thereby, it is possible to perform control so as to permit the change from the second registration mode to the first registration mode by the switching button only when all payments have been completed. In other words, even if the registration has been completed but the customer has left the checkout area for another purpose, the checkout mode can be switched after the checkout is surely completed by the customer. Further, since the transaction number is stored, it is possible to know which transaction customer has not been completed, and the store clerk is a clue to find that customer. Also, if the customer is not found, that is, if it is determined that the customer has left the store without payment, the mark is stored in the corresponding transaction number in the registration file, and the mode is forcibly switched. Means may be provided.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the settlement apparatus 20 according to the present embodiment.
The settlement apparatus 20 performs payment settlement based on the registration data generated by the registration apparatus 10. The payment apparatus 20 includes a first payment mode (first payment means) corresponding to the first registration mode and a second payment mode (first payment means) corresponding to the second registration mode. There are two modes of operation.

  The settlement apparatus 20 includes a CPU 201, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, a scanner unit 204, a first display unit 205, a second display unit 206, a communication unit 207, a buzzer 208, a printing unit 209, and a change machine 210. A bus 211 and a key operation unit 212. These are connected to each other via a bus 211.

The ROM 202 is an accounting program to be executed by the CPU 201. Programs corresponding to the first settlement mode and the second settlement mode are stored. When a switching signal from the switching button of the registration apparatus 10 is received, each program is read out.
The RAM 203 stores a product file in which a price and a product name are defined for each product code information. The RAM 203 has a temporary storage area where the accounting program read from the ROM 202 is expanded.
The RAM 203 temporarily stores the registration data (product code information, transaction number, etc.) registered by the registration device 10 in the first registration mode so that it can be read out, for example, registration data for five customers. For example, when the subtotal key is pressed, it is read in the order registered in the registration device 10.
The RAM 203 temporarily stores various variables and data (for example, change amount) generated by executing the accounting program. Further, the RAM 203 stores the current operation mode (whether the first settlement mode or the second settlement mode) in the settlement apparatus 20. In addition, the RAM 203 stores a settlement file that stores settlement data in the settled transaction. The settlement data is data indicating the result of the payment settlement, and indicates the deposit amount, change amount, and item code information of the settlement product in the transaction. In addition, the total purchase amount of the transaction may be stored.

  The scanner unit 204 optically reads the two-dimensional code and outputs information represented by the read two-dimensional code to the CPU 201.

The CPU 201 reads the accounting program stored in the ROM 202, expands it in the RAM 203, and executes the expanded accounting program steps to control the entire settlement apparatus 20.
In the first settlement mode, the CPU (first settlement means) 201 reads the registration data received from the registration device 10 and temporarily stored in the RAM 203, and executes the price settlement. In the second settlement mode, the CPU (second settlement unit) 201 executes price settlement based on the two-dimensional code read by the scanner unit 204. Specifically, the CPU (second settlement means) 201 acquires the code information of the product by reversely converting the two-dimensional code into registration data that is code information of each product, and acquires the code information of the acquired product. The payment is executed based on the product file stored in the RAM 203.

Further, the CPU 201 causes the first display unit 205 to display the product name, the number of purchases, the sales price, and the total amount of the purchased product based on the acquired code information of the product. In addition, the CPU 201 acquires the amount of cash inserted into the change machine 210 (hereinafter referred to as “payment amount”) from the change machine 210, and causes the first display unit 205 to display the payment amount. In addition, the CPU 201 displays the change amount on the first display unit 205.
Then, if the deposit amount is equal to or greater than the total amount, the CPU 201 calculates a change amount and causes the change machine 210 to discharge a cash amount equal to the change amount. Then, the CPU 201 stores the adjusted payment data in the adjustment file shown in FIG. Further, the CPU 201 issues a receipt from the printing unit 209 when the payment is completed.

The first display unit 205 is, for example, a touch panel type liquid crystal display device. In FIG. 1A (corresponding to the first checkout mode), the information for the clerk is read according to the clerk program read from the ROM 202. Is displayed. Here, the information displayed by the first display unit 205 is, for example, the product name, the number of purchases, the sales price, the deposit amount, the total amount, the change amount, etc. of the purchased product for the product read from the registration file. .
Further, in FIG. 1B (corresponding to the second settlement mode), since the settlement apparatus 20 is operated by the customer C, a display including a guidance display for the customer to operate is displayed from the ROM 202, and the customer is displayed according to the guidance. By operating, customers can pay for themselves without hesitation. In addition, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) operation button is displayed, and an operation signal is output to the CPU 201 in response to an operation on the button. Here, as the GUI operation buttons, for example, an accounting key for causing the CPU 201 to start the payment settlement, a settlement key for causing the change machine 210 to start the change process, and the like are displayed.

The second display unit 206 is, for example, a dot display device, and is a display unit for showing the total purchase amount and the change amount to the customer. That is, in FIG. 1A (corresponding to the first settlement mode), the customer waiting for settlement is located at the opposite position of the display unit. Is displayed.
However, in FIG. 1B (corresponding to the second checkout mode), the customer is positioned in front of the first display unit, so the second display unit 206 is not used and is controlled not to be displayed. The

The key operation unit 212 is an input device that is activated only in the first checkout mode and is operated by the store clerk T. For example, a subtotal key for causing the CPU 201 to start the payment check and a change machine 210 A checkout key for starting the processing is provided. That is, in the second settlement mode, a program is set up so that settlement is performed only by the guidance display displayed on the first display unit 205 and the operation buttons displayed on the display unit as described above. . As a result, the customer can definitely perform the settlement operation.
That is, in the second checkout mode, the key operation unit 212 is not electrically effective. However, in order to eliminate the chance that the customer touches the key operation unit in the first place, the key operation unit 212 is used in the second checkout mode. You may make it provide the cover part which covers.
The communication unit 207 is a communication interface for communicating with an external device (for example, the registration device 10 or a host device) via the LAN.

The buzzer 208 is a sound generator for generating a confirmation sound and a warning sound. For example, the buzzer 208 generates a sound when the scanner unit 204 normally reads a barcode or when an erroneous operation is performed.
When notified from the CPU 201 that the payment has been completed, the printing unit 209 prints a receipt on a paper medium based on the data stored in the RAM 203 and discharges it.

  The change machine 210 has a cash inlet and outlet, counts the cash (at least one of coins and banknotes) inserted into the inlet, and notifies the CPU 201 of the deposit amount. Moreover, the change machine 210 discharges | emits the amount of cash equivalent to the change amount from a discharge port based on the change amount notified from CPU201.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a settlement file that stores settlement data generated by the settlement apparatus 20 according to the present embodiment.
The items of settlement data include a transaction number, a deposit amount, a change amount, a product code, and a date and time. The deposit amount is the amount deposited from the customer C at the time of payment, and is the amount of cash inserted into the insertion port of the change machine 210. The change amount is the amount of change given to the customer C at the time of payment, and is a value obtained by subtracting the total amount of transactions from the deposit amount. The date and time is date and time data output from a clock unit (not shown) of the settlement apparatus 20 that has been settled. Thereby, the goods purchased by transaction of each transaction number can be specified, and the amount of money and the amount of change at that time can also be checked.

Next, the operation procedure of the settlement system will be described.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the product registration process in the registration apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment.

  In S1 (step S1), the scanner 104 scans the barcode of the product, the CPU 101 sequentially stores the code information of the product registered in a predetermined area of the RAM 103, and the transaction number stored in the predetermined area of the RAM 103. Is identified.

In S2 (step S2), the CPU 101 determines whether or not the current total key has been pressed. If YES, the process proceeds to S3, and the transaction number stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 103 is incremented by “1”. In the case of NO, the process returns to S1 and product registration is repeated.
In S3 (step S3), the CPU 101 determines whether or not the operation mode stored in the RAM 103 is the first registration mode. If YES, the process proceeds to S4, and if NO, the process proceeds to S5.
In S4 (step S4), the CPU 101 transmits the product code information registered in the predetermined area of the RAM 103 in S1 and the transaction number specified in S1 to the settlement apparatus 20.

In S5 (step S5), the CPU 101 determines that the registration mode is the second registration mode.
In S <b> 6 (step S <b> 6), the CPU 101 stores the code information of the product registered in the predetermined area of the RAM 103 in S <b> 1 and the identified transaction number in a registration file stored in the hard disk 107 of the registration device 10.
In S7 (step S7), the CPU 101 prints an accounting sheet which is a slip on which the code information of the product stored in S6 and the transaction number are converted into a two-dimensional barcode and the two-dimensional barcode is printed. 111 is issued.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the accounting sheet issued in S7 (step S7) of FIG.
The transaction date, transaction number, and two-dimensional code are printed on this accounting sheet. In the two-dimensional code, as described above, the transaction number of the transaction and the code information of the registered product are recorded as registration data. Then, the customer moves to the checkout apparatus 20 with this billing sheet and pays itself.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the settlement process in the settlement apparatus 20 according to the present embodiment.
In the first settlement mode, the settlement apparatus 20 receives registration data for each transaction from the registration apparatus 10 and stores the received registration data in the RAM 203 before performing the settlement process shown in FIG. Then, the settlement apparatus 20 stores, for example, in a predetermined area of the RAM 203 for transactions of five customers, and sequentially reads out old registration data when a subtotal key is pressed, as will be described later.

First, in S10 (step S10), the CPU 201 reads the current operation mode from the RAM 203 and determines whether or not the current operation mode is the first settlement mode. If yes, then continue with S11, otherwise continue with S16.
In S11 (step S11), since the payment system is in the first payment mode, the CPU 201 causes the first display unit 205 to display an operation display screen for the store clerk. The operation display screen for the store clerk is a display screen for the store clerk to operate the settlement apparatus 20.
In S12 (step S12), the CPU 201 determines whether or not the subtotal key of the key operation unit 212 is pressed. If yes, then continue with S13, otherwise return to step S12.
In S <b> 13 (step S <b> 13), the CPU 201 reads out the registration data (transaction and product code information) stored in the RAM 203 in the oldest order.
In S14 (Step S14), the CPU 201 calculates the total amount based on the registration data read out in S13 and the product file stored in the RAM 203, and accepts the input of the price. When cash is inserted into the insertion slot, the change machine 210 counts the amount of cash inserted (cash amount).
In S15 (step S15), the CPU 201 calculates a change amount based on the counted deposit amount and the calculated total amount, outputs the change amount to the change machine 210, and discharges the cash of the change amount to the discharge port. To discharge from Further, the CPU 201 writes the input deposit amount, the calculated change amount, and the settlement data such as the product code information and the transaction number in the settlement file, issues a detailed receipt, and ends the processing.

On the other hand, if the operation mode is not the first settlement mode in step S10, the CPU 201 determines in S16 (step S16) that the operation mode is the second settlement mode.
In S <b> 17 (step S <b> 17), the CPU 201 displays a customer operation display screen on the first display unit 205. The customer operation display screen is a display screen for the customer to operate the settlement apparatus 20, and displays, for example, guidance for prompting the customer C to proceed with payment settlement. In addition, the CPU 201 electrically disables the key operation unit 212. Specifically, the CPU 201 does not accept input from the key operation unit 212.
In S18 (step S18), the CPU 201 determines whether or not the scanner unit 204 has read the two-dimensional code printed on the check sheet. If YES, the process proceeds to S19, and if NO, the process returns to S18.

In S19 (step S19), the CPU 201 acquires registration data such as code information and transaction number read by the scanner unit 204 from the two-dimensional code.
In S <b> 20 (step S <b> 20), the CPU 201 calculates the total amount based on the acquired code information and the product file stored in the RAM 203, and accepts input of a price. When cash is inserted into the insertion slot, the change machine 210 counts the amount of cash inserted (cash amount).
In S21 (step S21), the CPU 201 calculates a change amount based on the deposit amount and the calculated total amount, outputs the change amount from the change machine 210, and instructs to discharge the cash of the change amount from the discharge port. To do. Further, the CPU 201 writes the input deposit amount, the calculated change amount, and the settlement data such as the product code information and the transaction number in the settlement file, issues a detailed receipt, and ends the processing.

Next, with reference to FIG. 9, the mode switching process by a payment system is demonstrated. FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the mode switching process according to the present embodiment.
In the present embodiment, the registration device 10 and the payment device 20 are communicably connected via, for example, a LAN. Therefore, when the switch button provided in the clerk operation unit 108 of the registration device 10 is pressed, the registration mode is switched. And the checkout mode are switched at the same time.

In (Step S101), the CPU 101 of the registration apparatus 10 accepts pressing of a switching button.
In (Step S102), when the button is pressed in S101, the CPU 101 displays the display on the display clerk display unit 105 that accepts the input of the employee number, and waits for the input of the employee number from the display.
In (step S103), when the employee number is input, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the input employee number is registered in an employee number table (not shown) in the RAM 103. If YES, the process proceeds to S104. If NO, the process proceeds to S106.
In (step S104), the switching message “switching the operation mode” is displayed on the display for clerk 105. That is, only a specific employee can switch the operation mode.
At this time, when the CPU 101 switches from the first registration mode to the second registration mode, for example, “After pressing the current key, an accounting sheet will be issued. , A message notifying the store clerk T that the slip is output is also displayed. Thereby, even an inexperienced operator can prevent forgetting to hand over the accounting sheet when switching to the second registration mode.
Next, in (Step S <b> 107), the CPU 101 transmits a switching instruction for instructing switching of the operation mode to the settlement apparatus 20. That is, an instruction command for switching to a mode different from the operation mode stored in the RAM 203 is transmitted.
On the other hand, in (step S106), an error message “mode cannot be switched” is displayed on the display for clerk 105, and the process returns to step S102.

In (Step S201), when the CPU 201 of the settlement apparatus 20 receives the switching notification, the switching is performed from the second settlement mode in comparison with the current operation mode stored in the RAM 203 based on the received switching notification. It is determined whether or not the mode is switched to the 1 settlement mode. If YES, the process proceeds to S201. If NO, the process proceeds to S203.
In (Step S202), the CPU 201 reads all the transaction numbers in the transaction whose current flag is “1” in the registration file stored in the hard disk 107 of the registration device 20, and stores the read transaction numbers in the RAM 203 of the settlement device 10. Determine whether it is stored in the checkout file. That is, it is determined whether or not all customer C payments have been completed since registration was started in the second registration mode. If YES, the process proceeds to S203, and if NO, the process returns to S202.
In other words, the second settlement mode corresponding to the second registration mode is a settlement method in which the customer himself / herself settles with the settlement apparatus 20, so that the registration is completed in the registration apparatus 10, but for example from the settlement area Since there is a customer who is away for some reason, or because the customer cannot switch over the payment system while the payment device 20 is checking out, the customer C who is surely registered in the second registration mode You can switch after confirming that the checkout is over.
Also, if any of the transaction numbers for transactions with the current flag in the registration file as “1” has not been settled and the customer cannot be found at the store, it can be determined that the customer has made an unauthorized settlement. In that case, means for forcibly switching the operation mode may be provided.
In addition, in the case of NO in S201, when changing from the first registration mode to the second registration mode, that is, when switching from the first settlement mode to the second settlement mode, the customer from the settlement at the store clerk. Since the clerk switches the mode after completing the registration and settlement by himself, the above confirmation is unnecessary.

In (Step S203), the operation mode in the settlement apparatus 20 is switched. Specifically, the CPU 201 rewrites the current operation mode stored in the RAM 203 to the other operation mode.
In (Step S204), the CPU 201 of the settlement apparatus 20 transmits a switching instruction for switching the operation mode to the other mode to the CPU 101 of the registration apparatus 10 based on the operation mode switching in the settlement apparatus 20 being completed.

  In (Step S <b> 105), when the CPU 101 of the registration apparatus 10 receives a switching instruction from the settlement apparatus 20, the CPU 101 switches the current mode to the other mode. Specifically, when the current operation mode is the first registration mode, the operation mode is changed from the first registration mode to the second registration mode by rewriting the operation mode stored in the RAM 103 to the second registration mode. Switch to 2 registration mode. On the other hand, when the current operation mode is the second registration mode, the CPU 101 rewrites the operation mode stored in the RAM 103 to the first registration mode, thereby changing the operation mode from the second registration mode to the first registration mode. Switch to 1 registration mode.

  As described above, when the settlement apparatus 20 switches from the second settlement mode to the first settlement mode, the operation mode after all settlement of the customer C registered in the current second registration mode is completed. Switch. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the settlement system from being switched even though there are unsettled customers or customers in the middle of settlement, so there is no confusion in settlement.

  As described above, in the settlement system according to the present embodiment, the clerk T operates the registration device 10 and the settlement device 20 in the first mode, and the store clerk operates the registration device 10 to register the code information and the transaction. A slip with the number encoded and printed is issued, and the customer can switch to the second mode in which the slip is read by the scanner unit of the checkout device 20 and the checkout device 20 is operated. That is, if one settlement system consisting of one registration device 10 and one settlement device 20 is prepared, the mode can be switched and used as described above, so that each device corresponding to each mode is used. There is no need to introduce. Further, as in the above embodiment, an optimal operation mode can be selected and switched according to the store situation such as the number of visitors.

For example, in the evening time when the number of visitors is large, the number of customers lined up in front of the registration device 10 increases, so the store clerk T is settled by the customer C in the second registration mode in which only the operation of the registration device is performed. Change to the second checkout mode. As a result, the store clerk T can start the next customer's product registration operation only by executing the operation of the registration device, so the time during which the customer C stays in front of the registration device 10 can be reduced. As a result, so-called cash register waiting can be reduced.
Also, in the late night hours when the number of visitors is low, the store clerk returns to the mode where both product registration and checkout are performed, so that the store clerk T who is used to both product registration and checkout is done efficiently and quickly. Also in the second registration mode, since the time-consuming registration operation is performed by the store clerk T who is accustomed to the operation, the registration operation can be performed quickly, and the accounting process as a whole is processed quickly. be able to

As described above, the embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to the above, and various design changes and the like can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. It is possible to
For example, in the present embodiment, the operating mode of the settlement system is switched by the switch button. For example, a switching instruction for switching the operation mode is sent from the store controller that controls the settlement system to the registration apparatus 10 and the settlement apparatus 20. You may send it. In this case, the registration device 10 and the payment device 20 switch the operation mode when receiving this switching instruction. In addition, when receiving the switching instruction, the registration device 10 displays a message on the clerk display unit 105 informing that the operation mode is switched. Further, when switching from the first registration mode to the second registration mode, the registration device 10 sends a message “A billing sheet will be output from the subsequent transaction. It is displayed on the display unit 105. At this time, as in FIG. 9, when switching from the second registration mode to the first registration mode, it is determined whether or not the settlement of all registered customers in the second registration mode has been completed. It may be.

In addition, a time zone in which the settlement system operates in the first mode or the second mode may be set, and the operation modes of the registration apparatus 10 and the settlement apparatus 20 may be automatically switched when the set time comes. Alternatively, when the set time comes, a message instructing to switch the operation mode (for example, “Please switch from the first registration mode to the second registration mode” or “From the second registration mode to the first registration mode. Or the like ”may be displayed on the display 105 for the clerk of the registration device 10. Thereby, the salesclerk T can grasp that it is the switching time of the operation mode. Here, since the time zone where the store is crowded within a day is almost determined, the crowded time zone is operated in the second mode, and the relatively vacant time zone is operated in the first mode. It is possible to set.
Further, a camera capable of imaging the entire store may be installed, and the operation modes of the registration device 10 and the settlement device 20 may be automatically switched based on the degree of congestion of the store monitored by this camera. Specifically, the store controller acquires an image captured by the camera, and extracts a person from the acquired image by pattern matching or the like. Then, the store controller counts the number of extracted persons, and switches the operation mode from the first mode to the second mode when the counted number exceeds a predetermined threshold. On the other hand, the store controller switches the operation mode from the second mode to the first mode when the counted number becomes smaller than a predetermined threshold.

In the present embodiment, the registration device 10 includes a switching button, and the settlement apparatus 20 switches the operation mode in conjunction with the registration apparatus 10. However, each of the registration apparatus 10 and the settlement apparatus 20 has a switching button. The operation mode may be switched individually. A switching button may be provided in a host device or a dedicated management device that can communicate with both the settlement device 20 and the registration device 10 via a LAN or the like, and a switching operation may be performed on the device.
In this case, the higher-level device or the management device can refer to the current operation mode of each of the registration device 10 and the payment device 20, and the registration file stored in the registration device 10 and the payment file stored in the payment device 20. Can be referred to. Therefore, when switching from the second registration mode to the first registration mode, it is possible to determine whether the transaction has the current flag “1” in the registration file and whether all of the transactions are stored in the settlement file.
Further, even when there are a plurality of registration apparatuses 10 in the second registration mode and a plurality of settlement apparatuses 20 in the second settlement mode, registration files in the plurality of registration apparatuses 10 in the host apparatus or the like are used. It is possible to determine whether there is an unsettled transaction by referring to the settlement file in the plurality of settlement apparatuses 20.
In the present embodiment, the registration device 10 outputs an accounting sheet as a medium to be delivered to the customer. However, for example, an IC card that specifies registration data may be output. When the medium is an IC card, the registration device 10 includes an IC card writer instead of the printing unit 111, and the checkout device 20 includes an IC card reader instead of the scanner unit 204.
In this embodiment, the two-dimensional code in which the registered data is recorded is printed on the accounting sheet. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a one-dimensional bar code (accounting code) indicating only the transaction number is used for accounting. You may print on a sheet. In this case, the registration data is stored in another device such as a store controller that can communicate with both the registration device 10 and the payment device 20. Specifically, the registration device 10 transmits registration data to the store controller when the product registration is completed. The store controller stores the received registration data. When the checkout device 20 reads the transaction number from the barcode, the checkout device 20 requests registration data corresponding to the read transaction number from the store controller. The store controller transmits the requested registration data to the settlement apparatus 20. The settlement apparatus 20 performs settlement based on the registration data received from the store controller.

Further, in the present embodiment, the settlement with cash is exemplified, but the settlement may be made with electronic money or the like, for example.
In the present embodiment, the settlement apparatus 20 electrically disables the key operation unit 212 during the second settlement mode. However, for example, a cover may be attached to cover the key operation unit 212.
Moreover, when switching from the first mode to the second mode, the number of the settlement apparatuses 20 may be increased. That is, the settlement system may be configured so that the number of the settlement apparatuses 20 is larger in the second mode than in the first mode.

  In the above embodiment, the first registration unit performs the registration operation without driving the printing unit 111, and the second registration unit drives the printing unit 111 to print the two-dimensional code. . This is because the first registration means does not require the printing unit 111 to be driven in the original product registration operation, but for the customer who has made a purchase of a certain amount or more in the first registration means, for example, The printing unit 111 may be driven so as to issue a sheet on which a bar code indicating a discount is printed. That is, the printing unit 111 is not necessarily prohibited from operating in the first registration mode.

In the above embodiment, the salesclerk operation unit 108 of the registration apparatus 10 has an example of having a switching button (switching means) for switching between the first registration mode and the second registration mode. A means for switching the mode together with the registration mode may be provided.
In the above-described embodiment, the registration apparatus 10 includes the CPU 101. In the first and second registration modes, the CPU 101 controls each case, but communication is possible in the first registration mode. The CPU 201 of the settlement apparatus 20 may control the registration apparatus 10 so that the registration apparatus 10 and the settlement apparatus 20 are integrated.
In the above embodiment, the transaction number for identifying one transaction generated by the registration device 10 has been described as an example in which sequential numbers are used without dividing the first registration mode and the second registration mode. For example, the number of the transaction number to be used may be changed in the first registration mode and the second registration mode, and a sequential number may be assigned in each mode.
Further, the settlement data settled by the first settlement mode and the second settlement mode may be stored in separate settlement files.

In S202 of the mode switching sequence diagram in FIG. 9 of the above embodiment, when all customers registered in the second registration mode have been settled, both the settlement apparatus 20 and the registration apparatus 10 operate. The mode has been described to be switched to the first registration mode and the first settlement mode. However, the present invention is not limited to this. In the case of NO in S202, that is, when all customers have not yet been settled, the registration device Only 10 may permit switching to the first registration means, and only the settlement apparatus 20 may be prohibited from switching to the first settlement means.
In other words, when there is a customer who is being settled or not yet settled, the settlement apparatus 20 can perform settlement without confusion by allowing the customer to settle in the second settlement mode. On the other hand, since the registration apparatus 10 can be registered in the first registration mode without having to wait for the customer's payment to be completed, the registration apparatus 10 can start registration in the first registration mode. it can. At this time, the registration device 10 buffers the registered data registered in the RAM 103, for example, in the order of registration. Then, the settlement apparatus 20 switches from the second settlement mode to the first settlement mode when all the settlement of the customer of the transaction in the second registration mode is completed. Since the settlement apparatus 20 and the registration apparatus 10 can communicate with each other, the settlement apparatus 20 reads the code information of registered products buffered in, for example, the RAM 103 in the order of registration and performs settlement in the first settlement mode. In this case, what is buffered is not limited to the RAM 103 but may be stored in a communicable host device, and the registration data may be read from the host device and settled when switching to the first settlement mode. .
Further, when the operation mode of the registration apparatus 10 is the second registration mode, the settlement apparatus 10 may prohibit the settlement in the first settlement mode. As a result, the customer is surely settled in the second settlement mode, and the settlement is not disrupted.
In addition, the switching instruction in S107 and S204 in FIG. 9 of the above-described embodiment is shown as an example in which instruction information for switching to an operation mode different from the currently stored operation mode out of the two modes is transmitted. Therefore, the switching instruction may include instruction information for switching to either mode.
Moreover, in the said embodiment, it demonstrated before selecting the mode which operate | moves with each of the registration apparatus 10 and the adjustment apparatus 20, and it demonstrated in the example which switches, For example, in the registration apparatus 10, a 1st registration means and a 2nd After registering all the products to be purchased and declaring the end of registration, for example, when the first key is pressed, the first registration means processes If the second key is pressed, the second registration unit may process the key.
Further, in the settlement means, both the first settlement means and the second settlement means are validated. For example, when the accounting code is read by the reading unit, the settlement is performed by the second settlement means, For example, when a predetermined key on the settlement apparatus 20 is pressed, the first settlement unit may perform settlement.

  Note that a program for realizing the settlement system described above may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program may be read into a computer system and executed. Here, the “computer system” includes an OS and hardware such as peripheral devices. The “computer-readable recording medium” refers to a storage device such as a flexible medium, a magneto-optical disk, a portable medium such as a ROM and a CD-ROM, and a hard disk incorporated in a computer system. Further, the “computer-readable recording medium” refers to a volatile memory (RAM) in a computer system that becomes a server or a client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. In addition, those holding programs for a certain period of time are also included. The program may be transmitted from a computer system storing the program in a storage device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium or by a transmission wave in the transmission medium. Here, the “transmission medium” for transmitting the program refers to a medium having a function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet or a communication line (communication line) such as a telephone line. The program may be for realizing a part of the functions described above. Furthermore, what can implement | achieve the function mentioned above in combination with the program already recorded on the computer system, what is called a difference file (difference program) may be sufficient.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Registration device, 20 ... Checkout device, 101, 201 ... CPU, 102, 202 ... ROM, 103, 203 ... RAM, 104 ... Scanner unit, 105 ... Display for store clerk, 106 ... Display for customer, 107 ... Hard disk , 108 ... Sales clerk operation unit, 109, 207 ... Communication unit, 110, 208 ... Buzzer, 111 ... Printing unit, 112, 211 ... Bus, 204 ... Scanner unit, 205 ... Display unit, 206 ... Customer operation unit, 209 ... Printing section, 210 ... Change machine, 212 ... Key operation section

Claims (7)

A payment system having a registration device for registering a product purchased by a customer and a payment device for paying for the price of the product registered by the registration device,
The registration device
An output unit for outputting a possessable medium;
First registration means for storing and registering information relating to the registered product in a predetermined storage area in a freely readable manner;
A second registration means for registering the medium including an accounting code for identifying information relating to the registered product by outputting the medium from the output unit;
With
The settlement apparatus is
A reading unit for reading the accounting code from the medium;
Corresponding to the first registration means, information relating to the product stored in the predetermined storage area is read out in the order of registration in the first registration means, and settlement is performed based on the read information relating to the product. 1 settlement method,
A second settlement means corresponding to the second registration means, for settlement based on information read from the accounting code by the reading unit;
A checkout system characterized by comprising:   The first registration means and the second registration means can be switched, the first settlement means and the second settlement means can be switched, and switching means for performing the switching is provided. The settlement system according to claim 1, characterized in that:   The settlement system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein during the second registration means, settlement in the first settlement means is prohibited.   The switching means serves as both switching between the first registration means and the second registration means and switching between the first settlement means and the second settlement means. The payment system according to claim 2 or 3. The second registration means and the second settlement means are selected,
Registration storage means for storing information relating to transactions registered while the second registration means is selected;
A settlement storage means for storing information relating to transactions settled while the second settlement means is selected;
And the transaction registered in the second registration unit is all settled based on the information on the transaction stored in the registration storage unit and the information on the transaction stored in the settlement storage unit. A determination is made as to whether or not all transactions have been settled, and only registration is permitted to be switched from the second registration means to the first registration means. The settlement system according to any one of 1 to 4. A registration device in a settlement system having a registration device for registering a product purchased by a customer and a settlement device for settlement of the price of the product registered by the registration device,
An output unit for outputting a possessable medium;
First registration means for storing and registering information relating to the registered product in a predetermined storage area in a freely readable manner;
A second registration means for outputting and registering the medium including the accounting code for specifying information on the registered product to the output unit;
With
A registration apparatus characterized in that the first registration means and the second registration means are switchable. A settlement device in a settlement system having a registration device for registering a product to be purchased by a customer and a settlement device for settlement of the price of the product registered by the registration device;
A first checkout unit that reads information related to the product registered in the registration device and stored in a predetermined storage area, and that settles based on the read information related to the product;
Information relating to the registered product registered in the registration device is output to the medium as an accounting code, and is settled based on the accounting code read by the reading unit;
With
A settlement apparatus characterized in that the first settlement means and the second settlement means are switchable.

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