JP2016206702A - Receipt printing system, receipt management device and control program therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To appropriately restrict issuance of a receipt by a print medium after issuing an electronic receipt.SOLUTION: A receipt management device constituting a receipt printing system with a print processor includes a management unit, a confirmation unit and a permission unit. The management unit stores receipt data generated as data indicating the contents of a commercial transaction in a storage device for the management. The confirmation unit confirms that receipt data which is an object of a print permission required by the print processor satisfies conditions to allow printing. The permission unit permits the print processor to process receipt printing based on the receipt data which is the object of print permission in response to the confirmation by the confirmation unit that the conditions to allow printing are satisfied.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  Embodiments described herein relate generally to a receipt printing system, a receipt management apparatus, and a control program therefor.

  It has already been proposed to issue an electronic receipt at first and then issue a receipt on a printing medium (hereinafter referred to as a paper receipt) with a receipt printer as necessary.

  However, if paper receipts are issued unconditionally, there may be situations where electronic receipts and paper receipts representing the same content exist at the same time, or situations where multiple paper receipts representing the same content exist simultaneously. obtain. In such a situation, various problems such as complicated or difficult management of returned goods may occur.

  Under such circumstances, it has been desired to be able to appropriately limit the issue of receipts by the printing medium after issuing the electronic receipt.

JP 2009-151518 A

  The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a receipt printing system, a receipt management apparatus, and a control program therefor that can appropriately limit the issuance of a receipt by a printing medium after issuing an electronic receipt.

  The receipt management apparatus of the embodiment constitutes a receipt printing system together with the print processing apparatus, and includes a management unit, a confirmation unit, and a permission unit. The management unit stores and manages the receipt data generated as representing the contents of the commercial transaction in the storage device. The confirmation unit confirms that the receipt data that is the target of the print permission requested by the print processing apparatus satisfies the printable condition. The permission unit permits the print processing apparatus to perform receipt printing based on the receipt data that is the object of print permission in response to the confirmation unit confirming that the printable condition is satisfied.

1 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of an electronic receipt system according to an embodiment. The block diagram which shows the principal part structure of the POS terminal in FIG. The block diagram which shows the principal part structure of the portable information terminal in FIG. The block diagram which shows the principal part structure of the receipt server in FIG. The figure which shows the data structure of receipt data. The figure which shows the structure of the data record which condition data contain. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of the print processing apparatus in FIG. The flowchart of the process based on the payment program by the processor in FIG. 5 is a flowchart of processing based on a receipt client application by the processor in FIG. 4. FIG. 8 is a flowchart of processing based on a print processing application by the processor in FIG. 7. The figure which shows the transition of the display in the touch panel in FIG. 5 is a flowchart of processing based on a print control application by the processor in FIG. 5 is a flowchart of processing based on a print control application by the processor in FIG.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of an electronic receipt system including a receipt printing system will be described with reference to the drawings.

[Description of electronic receipt system]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the electronic receipt system 100.

  The electronic receipt system 100 includes a POS (point-of-sale) terminal 10, a portable information terminal 20, a receipt server 30, a print processing device 40, and a relay server 50. In FIG. 1, each of the POS terminal 10, the portable information terminal 20, the receipt server 30, the print processing device 40, and the relay server 50 is shown, but each number is arbitrary. The POS terminal 10, the receipt server 30, and the print processing apparatus 40 are each connected to the relay server 50 via a dedicated line. Data can be exchanged between the portable information terminal 20 and the receipt server 30 via the network 200. The network 200 includes, for example, the Internet and a mobile communication network. The network 200 may include a local area network (LAN). Note that the receipt server 30 and the print processing device 40 correspond to first and second servers, respectively.

  The POS terminal 10, the receipt server 30, the print processing apparatus 40, and the relay server 50 may be communicable by communication means other than a dedicated line. For example, the POS terminal 10, the receipt server 30, the print processing device 40, and the relay server 50 may be connected to a communication network such as a LAN (local area network) or the Internet. This communication network may be common with the network 200. When the POS terminal 10, the receipt server 30, and the print processing device 40 are connected to the communication network as described above, the relay server 50 may be omitted.

  The POS terminal 10 is installed in a facility that conducts commercial transactions. A commercial transaction can include all of the acts that involve the transfer of money, such as the sale of goods or the provision of services. Therefore, the above facilities are, for example, various stores such as merchandise stores or restaurants, or service providing stores such as entertainment facilities. The POS terminal 10 performs an accounting process that is a data process for accounting for a price related to a commercial transaction. Note that the accounting includes the calculation and settlement of the above price. The POS terminal 10 generates receipt data during the accounting process. When a plurality of POS terminals 10 are included in the electronic receipt system 100, the plurality of POS terminals 10 may be installed in the same store or may be distributed in different stores.

  The portable information terminal 20 displays an image for browsing the electronic receipt based on an operation by the user of the electronic receipt system 100. When a plurality of portable information terminals 20 are included in the electronic receipt system 100, the plurality of portable information terminals 20 may be used by the same user or individually by different users. Alternatively, one portable information terminal 20 may be shared by a plurality of users. The user refers to a person who uses the electronic receipt system 100 to browse a receipt. Typically, a user is a payer for a commercial transaction, that is, a customer in a commercial transaction.

  The receipt server 30 collects, accumulates, and manages receipt data generated by the POS terminal 10 from the POS terminal 10. The receipt server 30 generates screen data for allowing the user to view the contents of the receipt data, and transmits this data to the portable information terminal 20.

  The print processing apparatus 40 issues a paper receipt based on the receipt data stored in the receipt server 30 under an instruction from the user.

  The relay server 50 relays data transmission among the POS terminal 10, the receipt server 30, and the print processing device 40.

  As an example, at least one POS terminal 10, a print processing device 40, and a relay server 50 are installed in one facility. The receipt server 30 is installed in an electronic receipt center operated by a company different from the company that operates the facility. Even when the electronic receipt system 100 includes a plurality of POS terminals 10 operated by different companies, the receipt data generated by each of the plurality of POS terminals 10 is received by one receipt server 30. to manage. However, it is arbitrary how the POS terminal 10, the portable information terminal 20, the receipt server 30, the print processing device 40, and the relay server 50 are operated.

[Description of POS terminal 10]
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of the POS terminal 10.

  The POS terminal 10 includes a processor 101, a main storage device 102, an auxiliary storage device 103, a communication interface 104, an I / O (input / output) interface 105, a system transmission path 106, and the like. The processor 101, the main storage device 102, the auxiliary storage device 103, the communication interface 104, and the I / O interface 105 are connected by a system transmission path 106. The system transmission path 106 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, and the like.

  In the POS terminal 10, a computer is constituted by the processor 101, the main storage device 102, the auxiliary storage device 103, and the system transmission path 106 connecting them.

  The processor 101 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 101 controls each unit to implement various functions as the POS terminal 10 according to an operating system and application programs.

  The main storage device 102 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main storage device 102 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main storage device 102 stores an operating system and application programs in a nonvolatile memory area. The main storage device 102 may store data necessary for the processor 101 to execute processing for controlling each unit in a nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main storage device 102 uses a volatile memory area as a work area in which data is appropriately rewritten by the processor 101.

  The auxiliary storage device 103 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. The auxiliary storage device 103 is, for example, an EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), an HDD (hard disc drive), or an SSD (solid state drive). The auxiliary storage device 103 stores data used when the processor 101 performs various processes and data generated by the process in the processor 101. The auxiliary storage device 103 stores application programs.

  The application program stored in the auxiliary storage device 103 includes a settlement program P11. However, the payment program P11 may be downloaded via the Internet, for example, and written to the auxiliary storage device 103 in response to an operation by the administrator of the POS terminal 10 or the installation operator of the POS terminal 10. That is, the transfer of the POS terminal 10 to the user of the POS terminal 10 may be performed in a state where the payment program P11 is not stored in the auxiliary storage device 103.

  The communication interface 104 is an interface for data communication with the relay server 50. As the communication interface 104, for example, a known communication device for performing data communication via a LAN can be used.

  The I / O interface 105 is an interface for data communication with various input / output devices. Although not shown, for example, a handy scanner, a touch panel, a card reader, a printer, and the like are appropriately connected to the I / O interface 105.

  As the hardware of the POS terminal 10, an existing similar device can be used.

[Description of portable information terminal 20]
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of the portable information terminal 20.

  The portable information terminal 20 is a portable information processing device such as a smartphone, a mobile phone, or a tablet terminal.

  The portable information terminal 20 includes a processor 201, a main storage device 202, an auxiliary storage device 203, a touch panel 204, a communication interface 205, a wireless interface 206, a system transmission path 207, and the like. The processor 201, the main storage device 202, the auxiliary storage device 203, the touch panel 204, the communication interface 205, and the wireless interface 206 are connected via a system transmission path 207. The system transmission path 207 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, and the like.

  In the portable information terminal 20, a computer is configured by the processor 201, the main storage device 202, the auxiliary storage device 203, and the system transmission path 207 that connects them.

  The processor 201 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 201 controls each unit to implement various functions as the portable information terminal 20 according to an operating system and application programs.

  The main storage device 202 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main storage device 202 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main storage device 202 stores an operating system and application programs in a nonvolatile memory area. The main storage device 202 may store data necessary for the processor 201 to execute processing for controlling each unit in a nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main storage device 202 uses a volatile memory area as a work area in which data is appropriately rewritten by the processor 201.

  The auxiliary storage device 203 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. The auxiliary storage device 203 is, for example, an EEPROM. The auxiliary storage device 203 stores data used when the processor 201 performs various processes and data generated by the process in the processor 201. The auxiliary storage device 203 stores application programs.

  The application program stored in the auxiliary storage device 203 includes a receipt client application P21. The receipt client application P21 is a control program for operation as a receipt client. Typically, the receipt client application P21 is downloaded via the Internet, for example, and written to the auxiliary storage device 203 in response to an operation by the user of the portable information terminal 20. That is, the transfer of the portable information terminal 20 to the user of the portable information terminal 20 is performed in a state where the receipt client application P21 is not stored in the auxiliary storage device 203. However, the portable information terminal 20 with the receipt client application P21 stored in the auxiliary storage device 203 may be transferred to the user of the portable information terminal 20.

  The touch panel 204 functions as an input device and a display device of the portable information terminal 20.

  The communication interface 205 is an interface for data communication via the network 60. As the communication interface 205, for example, a known communication device for performing data communication via a mobile communication network or the Internet can be used.

  The wireless interface 206 is an interface for data communication using wireless communication. As the wireless interface 206, for example, a known communication device compliant with standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi, or NFC (near field communication) can be used. The wireless interface 206 may include only a communication device that conforms to any one of the standards, or may include a plurality of communication devices that conform to a plurality of standards.

[Description of Receipt Server 30]
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of the receipt server 30.

  The receipt server 30 includes a processor 301, a main storage device 302, an auxiliary storage device 303, a communication interface 304, a system transmission path 305, and the like. The processor 301 is connected to the main storage device 302, the auxiliary storage device 303, and the communication interface 304 by a system transmission path 305. The system transmission path 305 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, and the like.

  In the receipt server 30, a computer is constituted by the processor 301, the main storage device 302, the auxiliary storage device 303, and the system transmission path 305 connecting them.

  The processor 301 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 301 controls each unit to implement various functions as the receipt server 30 according to the operating system and application programs.

  The main storage device 302 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main storage device 302 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main storage device 302 stores an operating system and application programs in a nonvolatile memory area. The main storage device 302 may store data necessary for the processor 301 to execute processing for controlling each unit in a nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main storage device 302 uses a volatile memory area as a work area in which data is appropriately rewritten by the processor 301.

  The auxiliary storage device 303 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. The auxiliary storage device 303 is, for example, an EEPROM, HDD, SSD, or the like. The auxiliary storage device 303 stores data used when the processor 301 performs various types of processing and data generated by the processing in the processor 301. The auxiliary storage device 303 may store the above application program. One of the application programs stored in the auxiliary storage device 303 is a control program (hereinafter referred to as a receipt server application) P31 for operation as the receipt server 30. One of the application programs stored in the auxiliary storage device 303 is a control program (hereinafter referred to as a print control application) P32 for an operation for controlling printing of a paper receipt.

  The communication interface 304 is an interface for data communication via the network 200. As the communication interface 304, for example, a known communication device for performing data communication via the Internet can be used.

  The receipt server 30 can use, for example, a general-purpose server device or computer device as basic hardware. In the receipt server 30, a server device or a computer device in which the receipt server application P31 is not stored in the auxiliary storage device 303 and the receipt server application P31 may be individually transferred to the operator of the receipt server 30. At this time, the transfer of the receipt server application P31 can be realized by recording on a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk, or a semiconductor memory, or by downloading via a network. In this case, the receipt server application P31 and the print control application P32 are written in the auxiliary storage device 303 in accordance with an operation by the administrator of the receipt server 30 or the installation operator of the receipt server 30.

  The processor 301 allocates a part of the storage area of the auxiliary storage device 303 to the electronic receipt area W31 and the condition data area W32 in order to execute processing based on the receipt server application P31 and the print control application P32. The electronic receipt area W31 stores receipt data. The condition data area W32 stores condition data.

  FIG. 5 shows the data structure of receipt data.

  The receipt data is a data file having the data structure shown in FIG. The receipt data includes a receipt ID, a member ID, a company code, a store code, the number of times of printing, and detailed data.

  The receipt ID is a unique code for identifying receipt data including the receipt ID.

  The member ID is a unique code that identifies the user of the electronic receipt system 100.

  The company code is a unique code that identifies the company that operates the POS terminal 10 that has generated the receipt data including the company code.

  The store code is a unique code that identifies the store where the POS terminal 10 that has generated the receipt data including the store code is installed.

  The number of times of printing is the number of times that a paper receipt is printed based on receipt data including information on the number of times of printing.

  The detail data is a set of data representing details of the contents of the settlement. What kind of data is included in the detailed data is arbitrary. The data included in the detail data includes, for example, transaction date / time, cash register number, transaction type, product name, unit price, quantity, and total amount.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the structure of the data record included in the condition data.

  The condition data is a data file including a plurality of data records having the structure shown in FIG. Each data record included in the condition data represents a condition (hereinafter referred to as a printable condition) for determining whether or not a paper receipt can be printed for each company.

  The data record included in the condition data includes fields for printability, company code, company check, store check, valid period, allowable number of times, and guide print.

  In the company code field, the company code of the company to which the printable condition represented by the data record is applied is described. Whether or not to permit printing of the paper receipt in the print processing device 40 is described in the field of printability. In the company check field, whether or not to check the match of the company is described. In the store check field, whether or not the store matches is checked is described. The valid period field describes a period during which printing is permitted. The allowable number of times field describes the number of times printing is permitted. In the guidance print field, it is described whether or not a predetermined guide is printed on a paper receipt in the second and subsequent printing based on the same receipt data.

  Thus, in the condition data, different conditions can be set for each of a plurality of companies.

  The auxiliary storage device 303 is an example of a storage unit. The receipt server 30 has a function as a receipt management device.

[Description of Print Processing Device 40]
FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of the print processing apparatus 40.

  The print processing apparatus 40 includes a processor 401, a main storage device 402, an auxiliary storage device 403, a touch panel 404, a printer 405, a communication interface 406, a wireless interface 407, a system transmission path 408, and the like. The processor 401, the main storage device 402, the auxiliary storage device 403, the touch panel 404, the printer 405, the communication interface 406, and the wireless interface 407 are connected by a system transmission path 408. The system transmission path 408 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, and the like.

  In the print processing apparatus 40, a processor 401, a main storage device 402, an auxiliary storage device 403, and a system transmission path 408 connecting them constitute a computer.

  The processor 401 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 401 controls each unit to implement various functions as the print processing apparatus 40 in accordance with an operating system and application programs.

  The main storage device 402 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main storage device 402 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main storage device 402 stores an operating system and application programs in a nonvolatile memory area. The main storage device 402 may store data necessary for the processor 401 to execute processing for controlling each unit in a nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main storage device 402 uses a volatile memory area as a work area in which data is appropriately rewritten by the processor 401.

  The auxiliary storage device 403 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. The auxiliary storage device 403 is, for example, an EEPROM, an HDD, an SSD, or the like. The auxiliary storage device 403 stores data used when the processor 401 performs various processes, and data generated by the processes in the processor 401. The auxiliary storage device 403 stores application programs. One of the application programs stored in the auxiliary storage device 403 is a control program (hereinafter referred to as a print processing application) P41 for operation as the print processing apparatus 40.

  The touch panel 404 functions as an input device and a display device for the print processing apparatus 40.

  The printer 405 prints an image representing the contents of receipt data on a print medium. The print medium is typically paper, but may be anything as long as the printer 405 can print an image.

  The communication interface 406 is an interface for data communication with the relay server 50. As the communication interface 406, for example, a known communication device for performing data communication via a LAN can be used.

  The wireless interface 407 is an interface for data communication using wireless communication. As the wireless interface 407, for example, a known communication device compliant with standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi, or NFC can be used. The wireless interface 407 may include only a communication device that conforms to any one of the standards, or may include a plurality of communication devices that conform to a plurality of standards. However, at least one communication device that conforms to the same standard as the communication device included in the wireless interface 206 of the portable information terminal 20 is included.

  In the print processing device 40, the server device or computer device in which the print processing application P41 is not stored in the auxiliary storage device 403 and the print processing application P41 may be individually transferred to the operator of the print processing device 40. At this time, the transfer of the print processing application P41 can be realized by recording on a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk, or a semiconductor memory, or by downloading via a network. In this case, the print processing application P41 is written in the auxiliary storage device 403 in accordance with an operation by the administrator of the print processing apparatus 40 or the installation operator of the print processing apparatus 40.

[Description of Operation of Electronic Receipt System 100]
Next, the operation of the electronic receipt system 100 will be described. Note that the contents of the various processes described below are examples, and various processes capable of obtaining similar results can be used as appropriate.

  The user of the electronic receipt system 100 installs the receipt client application P21 on the portable information terminal 20. The user performs member registration with respect to the receipt server 30 by a predetermined method. With this member registration, the receipt server 30 determines a unique member ID for identifying the user.

  The user uses the POS terminal 10 to pay for a commercial transaction at a store where the POS terminal 10 belonging to the electronic receipt system 100 is installed.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the processing of the processor 101 based on the payment program P11 in the POS terminal 10.

  In Act 101, the processor 101 clears the product list area set in the main storage device 102. The product list area is a storage area for describing a list of information about products for which purchase registration has been completed (hereinafter referred to as a product list).

  In Act 102, the processor 101 confirms whether or not a product to be registered for purchase has been designated. If the processor 101 determines No because the product is not designated, the processor 101 proceeds to Act 103.

  In Act 103, the processor 101 confirms whether or not a member ID is input. If it is determined No because the processor 101 does not input a member ID, the process proceeds to Act 104.

  In Act 104, the processor 101 confirms whether or not the purchase registration should be closed. If the processor 101 determines No because the operation for specifying the closing of purchase registration has not been performed, the processor 101 returns to Act 102.

  Thus, in Acts 102 to 104, the processor 101 waits for any of operations for specifying a product, inputting a member ID, or specifying closing.

  In the case of a merchandise store, the user brings a product to be purchased and goes to the accounting corner. A user who has finished eating and drinking at a restaurant brings an order slip and goes to the accounting corner. A store clerk in charge of the accounting corner operates an input / output device connected to the I / O interface 105 in order to designate a product to be purchased or a product to be eaten or eaten. For example, a store clerk touches a product selection button displayed on a touch panel that is one of input / output devices. If the processor 101 determines that the result of Act 102 is Yes in Act 102, the processor 101 proceeds to Act 105.

  In Act 105, the processor 101 updates the product list to include the specified product. Thereafter, the processor 101 returns to the standby state of Act102 to Act104. Note that an order list created based on product designation at another order terminal may be taken in as a product list. Thereafter, the processor 101 returns to the standby state of Act102 to Act104.

  Although detailed explanation is omitted, the receipt server 30 confirms that the user who uses the portable information terminal 20 is registered as a member by a well-known authentication process or the like, and displays the member ID on the touch panel 204 of the portable information terminal 20. A bar code indicating is displayed. The user presents the mobile information terminal 20 on which the barcode is displayed to the store clerk. The store clerk causes the handy scanner that is one of the input / output devices connected to the I / O interface 105 of the POS terminal 10 to read the barcode.

  In the POS terminal 10, when the barcode is read by the handy scanner as described above, the processor 101 determines the member ID from the barcode. In response to this, the processor 101 determines Yes in Act 103, and proceeds to Act 106.

  In Act 106, the processor 101 stores the member ID determined as described above in the main storage device 102 or the auxiliary storage device 103. Then, the processor 101 returns to the standby state of Act 102 to Act 104. For this reason, the processor 101 may repeatedly execute Act 106 when the barcode is read a plurality of times. In this case, the processor 101 overwrites the member ID already stored in the main storage device 102 or the auxiliary storage device 103 with the member ID represented by the last read barcode.

  When the clerk has specified all of the products to be accounted for, the clerk touches a subtotal button displayed on a touch panel, which is one of the input / output devices, for example. If the processor 101 determines that the result of Act 104 is Yes in Act 104, the processor 101 proceeds to Act 107.

  In Act 107, the processor 101 performs a settlement process for settlement of the price related to the provision of the products shown in the product list. For this settlement process, a process executed by an existing POS device or the like can be used as it is.

  In Act 108, the processor 101 confirms whether or not the member ID is stored in the main storage device 102 or the auxiliary storage device 103. If the processor 101 determines Yes because the member ID is stored, the processor 101 proceeds to Act 109.

  In Act 109, the processor 101 creates receipt data having a configuration as shown in FIG. The processor 101 stores the created receipt data in the main storage device 102 or the auxiliary storage device 103. Note that the processor 101 sets the number of prints included in the receipt data to “0” here.

  In Act 110, the processor 101 confirms whether or not to issue a paper receipt. Specifically, the processor 101 displays a screen for inquiring whether the user wishes to issue a paper receipt on the touch panel. The processor 101 proceeds to Act 111 when it is determined Yes in Act 110 because an input for issuing a paper receipt is made by an operation on the touch panel. The processor 101 proceeds to Act 111 also when it is determined No in Act 108 because the member ID is not stored.

  In Act 111, the processor 101 controls a printer, which is one of input / output devices connected to the I / O interface 105, and issues a paper receipt.

  In Act 112, the processor 101 updates the receipt data stored in the main storage device 102 or the auxiliary storage device 103 so that the number of prints is “1”. Then, the processor 101 proceeds to Act 113 thereafter. The processor 101 proceeds to Act 113 also when it is determined No in Act 110 because an input indicating that a paper receipt is not issued is made by an operation on the touch panel. Note that Act 109 and Act 110 may be omitted, and if it is determined Yes in Act 108, the process may proceed to Act 113.

  In Act 113, the processor 101 transmits the receipt data stored in the main storage device 102 or the auxiliary storage device 103 to the receipt server 30. Specifically, the processor 101 generates a transmission file including receipt data stored in the main storage device 102 or the auxiliary storage device 103. Then, the processor 101 transmits the transmission file to the relay server 50 from the communication interface 104 to the receipt server 30. Then, the processor 101 returns to Act 101 and repeats the subsequent processing in the same manner as described above. The relay server 50 transfers the transmission file to the receipt server 30.

  When the transmission file including the receipt data is transmitted to the receipt server 30, the communication interface 304 receives the transmission file. The communication interface 304 stores the receipt data included in the received transmission file in the main storage device 302 or the auxiliary storage device 303.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the processing of the processor 201 based on the receipt client application P21 in the portable information terminal 20. However, illustration of processing for logging in to the receipt server 30 is omitted, and processing after login is completed is shown.

  In Act 201, the processor 201 confirms whether or not a list display instruction has been issued. If the processor 201 determines No because the instruction is not made, the processor 201 proceeds to Act 202.

  In Act 202, the processor 201 confirms whether or not an instruction other than list display is given. If the instruction is not No because the instruction has not been made, the processor 201 returns to Act 201.

  Thus, in Act 201 and Act 202, the processor 201 waits for either a list display instruction or another instruction. If the processor 201 determines Yes in Act 202 because another instruction is given by the user, the processor 201 proceeds to processing according to the instruction. A description of the processing in this case is omitted.

  When the processor 201 is in the standby state of Act 201 and Act 202, the processor 201 displays a button for instructing a list display on the screen of the touch panel 204. When the user wants to view a receipt managed by the receipt server 30, the user touches the button. If such a touch is detected by the touch panel 204 and the processor 201 determines Yes in Act 201, the processor 201 proceeds to Act 203.

  In Act 203, the processor 201 acquires list data related to the receipt data including the user ID of the user from the receipt server 30 in the same manner as in a known electronic receipt system, for example. At this time, in the receipt server 30, the processor 301 transmits the list data to the portable information terminal 20 by a known process, for example.

  The processor 301 stores the receipt data in the main storage device 302 or the auxiliary storage device 303 and transmits the list data to the portable information terminal 20 based on the receipt server application P31. Thus, when the processor 301 executes the control process based on the receipt server application P31, the computer having the processor 301 as a central part functions as a management unit.

  In Act 204, the processor 201 sets the display on the touch panel 204 as a list display based on the list data.

  In Act 205, the processor 201 confirms whether one of the receipt data indicated in the list data is designated. Then, the processor 201 repeats Act 205 if the designation is not made. Thus, in Act 205, the processor 201 waits for one of the receipt data to be designated.

  The user confirms the list display and touches the touch panel 204 so as to designate one of the receipt data. If the processor 201 determines Yes in Act 205 because the corresponding operation has been detected by the touch panel 204, the processor 201 proceeds to Act 206.

  In Act 206, the processor 201 acquires designated receipt data from the receipt server 30.

  In Act 207, the processor 201 displays the content of the acquired receipt data on the touch panel 204. The processor 201 includes a print button in the screen for displaying the contents of the receipt data.

  In Act 208, the processor 201 confirms whether or not a print instruction has been issued. If the processor 201 determines No because no print instruction has been issued, the processor 201 proceeds to Act 209.

  In Act 209, the processor 201 confirms whether or not an instruction other than the print instruction is given. If the instruction is not No because the instruction is not given, the processor 201 returns to Act 208.

  Thus, in Act 208 and Act 209, the processor 201 waits for either a print instruction or another instruction to be made. If the processor 201 determines Yes in Act 209 because another instruction is given by the user, the processor 201 proceeds to processing according to the instruction. A description of the processing in this case is omitted.

  After confirming the display on the touch panel 204, the user touches the print button if he / she wants to print it as a paper receipt. If the processor 201 determines Yes in Act 208 because the touch on the print button is detected by the touch panel 204, the processor 201 proceeds to Act 210.

  In Act 210, the processor 201 confirms whether the print processing apparatus 40 is detected. If the processor 201 determines No because the print processing apparatus 40 is not detected, the processor 201 repeats Act 210. Thus, in Act 201, the processor 201 waits for the print processing apparatus 40 to be detected.

  After the user touches the print button, the user brings the portable information terminal 20 close to the print processing device 40. Thus, when wireless communication between the wireless interface 206 and the wireless interface 407 is enabled, the wireless interface 206 notifies the processor 201 that the print processing apparatus 40 has been detected. Upon receiving this notification, the processor 201 determines Yes in Act 210, and proceeds to Act 211.

  In Act 211, the processor 201 wirelessly transmits print request data including the member ID and the receipt ID of the receipt data displaying the contents from the wireless interface 206. Then, the processor 201 returns to the standby state of Act 208 and Act 209.

  When the print request data is wirelessly transmitted to the print processing apparatus 40, the wireless interface 407 receives the print request data. The wireless interface 407 saves the received print request data in the main storage device 302 or the auxiliary storage device 303 and notifies the processor 301 to that effect.

  The processor 301 starts processing based on the print processing application P41 in response to the print request data being received in this way.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart of the processing of the processor 401 based on the print processing application P41 in the print processing apparatus 40.

  In Act 301, the processor 401 sets the display on the touch panel 404 as the first guidance display.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram showing display transition on the touch panel 404.

  A screen SC1 shown in FIG. 11 is an example of a screen for displaying a first guidance.

  The screen SC1 represents a text message for prompting the user to confirm whether or not to print a paper receipt based on the currently selected receipt data. The screen SC1 represents buttons B11 and B12.

  After confirming the display on the screen SC1, the user touches the button B11 to execute printing, and touches the button B12 to cancel printing.

  In Act 302, the processor 401 confirms whether execution of printing has been instructed. If the processor 401 determines No in Act 302 because a touch on the button B12 is detected by the touch panel 404, the processor 401 ends the processing illustrated in FIG. That is, in this case, printing of a paper receipt based on the receipt data selected by the portable information terminal 20 is not performed. However, if the processor 401 determines Yes in Act 302 because a touch on the button B11 is detected by the touch panel 404, the processor 401 proceeds to Act 303.

  In Act 303, the processor 401 transmits the print request ticket to the receipt server 30. Specifically, the processor 401 generates a print request ticket including a member ID, a receipt ID, a reception time, and a company code. Then, the processor 401 generates a transmission file including the print request ticket, and transmits the transmission file from the communication interface 406 to the receipt server 30 to the relay server 50.

  The processor 401 includes the member ID and receipt ID included in the paper print request received by the wireless interface 407 and stored in the main storage device 302 or the auxiliary storage device 303 in the print request ticket. Thus, the processor 401 selects receipt data designated by a user operation on the portable information terminal 20 as a printing target. Therefore, when the processor 401 executes control processing based on the print processing application P41, the computer having the processor 401 as a central part functions as a selection unit. The processor 401 includes, for example, the time when the paper print request is received or the time determined as “Yes” in Act 302 as the reception time in the print request ticket. The processor 401 includes the company code and the store code that are determined in advance and stored in the main storage device 302 or the auxiliary storage device 303 in the print request ticket. What kind of code is stored as the company code may be arbitrarily determined by the administrator of the print processing apparatus 40, but the company code assigned to the company that operates the facility where the print processing apparatus 40 is installed. Is the principle. What code is stored as the store code may be arbitrarily determined by the administrator of the print processing apparatus 40, but may be a store code assigned to the facility where the print processing apparatus 40 is installed. It is a principle.

  The relay server 50 transfers the transmission file to the receipt server 30. When the transmission file including the print request ticket is transmitted to the receipt server 30, the communication interface 304 receives the transmission file. The communication interface 304 stores the print request ticket included in the received transmission file in the main storage device 302 or the auxiliary storage device 303. Thereby, receipt printing based on the receipt data selected as a printing target is requested. Thus, when the processor 401 executes the control process based on the print processing application P41, the computer having the processor 401 as a central part functions as a request unit.

  The processor 301 starts processing based on the print control application P32 in response to the reception of the print request ticket in this way.

  12 and 13 are flowcharts of processing of the processor 301 based on the print control application P32 in the receipt server 30. FIG.

  In Act 401, the processor 301 confirms whether there is receipt data that is a target of the print request in the print request ticket. If the processor 301 determines Yes because the receipt data identified by the receipt ID included in the print request ticket (hereinafter referred to as target receipt data) is stored in the electronic receipt area W31, the process proceeds to Act 402. Proceed with

  In Act 402, the processor 301 confirms whether or not the company operating the print processing apparatus 40 that has transmitted the print request ticket permits printing of paper receipts in the print processing apparatus 40. Specifically, the processor 301 extracts a data record (hereinafter referred to as a target record) including a company code included in the target receipt data from the condition data. If the result of the determination is “Yes” because “permitted” is described in the field “printability” of the data record, the processor 301 proceeds to Act 403.

  In Act 403, the processor 301 confirms whether it is necessary to perform a company check. If the description of the company check field in the target record is “Yes” because the processor 301 determines “Yes”, the processor 301 proceeds to Act 404.

  In Act 404, the processor 301 confirms whether or not the company code included in the print request ticket matches the company code included in the target receipt data. If the processor 301 determines Yes because the two company codes match, the processor 301 proceeds to Act 405. If it is determined No in Act 403, the processor 301 passes Act 404 and proceeds to Act 405.

  In Act 405, the processor 301 confirms whether or not it is necessary to perform a store check. If the processor 301 determines Yes because the description of the store check field of the target record is “Yes”, the processor 301 proceeds to Act 406.

  In Act 406, the processor 301 confirms whether or not the store code included in the print request ticket matches the store code included in the target receipt data. If the processor 301 determines Yes because both store codes match, the processor 301 proceeds to Act 407. If it is determined No in Act 405, the processor 301 passes Act 406 and proceeds to Act 407.

  In Act 407, the processor 301 confirms whether or not it is before the allowable expiration date related to printing of the target receipt data. Specifically, the processor 301 obtains the allowable time limit as the date and time when the period described in the valid period field of the target record has elapsed from the transaction date and time included in the detailed data of the target receipt data. Then, the processor 301 determines Yes if the current date and time is earlier than the allowable time limit, and proceeds to Act 408.

  In Act 408, the processor 301 confirms whether or not the number of prints of the paper receipt based on the target receipt data is less than the allowable number. If the processor 301 determines Yes because the number of times of printing included in the target receipt data is less than the number of times described in the allowable number of times field of the target record, the processor 301 proceeds to Act 409.

  In Act 409, the processor 301 transmits permission / prohibition data indicating permission of printing to the print processing apparatus 40.

  On the other hand, if the processor 301 determines No in any of Act 401, Act 402, Act 404, Act 406, Act 407, and Act 408, the processing proceeds to Act 410.

  In Act 410, the processor 301 transmits permission / prohibition data indicating rejection of printing to the print processing apparatus 40. In this case, the processor 301 ends the process shown in FIG.

  Specifically, the processor 301 generates a transmission file including the permission data regardless of whether permission data is permitted or rejected, and transmits the transmission file from the communication interface 304 to the print processing device 40. To the relay server 50.

  Thus, when the processor 301 executes the control process based on the print control application P32, the computer having the processor 301 as a central part functions as a confirmation unit and a permission unit.

  The relay server 50 transfers the transmission file to the print processing device 40. When the transmission file including the availability data is transmitted to the print processing apparatus 40, the communication interface 406 receives the transmission file. The communication interface 406 stores the availability data included in the received transmission file in the main storage device 402 or the auxiliary storage device 403.

  In the print processing device 40, the processor 401 proceeds to Act 304 after transmitting the print request ticket as described above in Act 303 in FIG.

  In Act 304, the processor 401 confirms whether availability data has been received. If the processor 401 determines No because the availability data is not received, it repeats Act 304. Thus, in Act 304, the processor 401 waits for the availability data to be received. If the processor 401 determines Yes because the availability data has been received as described above, the processor 401 proceeds to Act 305.

  In Act 305, the processor 301 confirms whether or not the received availability data indicates printing permission. If the processor 401 determines Yes because the availability data indicates permission of printing, the processor 401 proceeds to Act 306.

  In Act 306, the processor 401 sets the display on the touch panel 404 as the second guidance display.

  A screen SC2 shown in FIG. 11 is an example of a screen for displaying a second guidance.

  The screen SC2 represents a text message for notifying the user that the paper receipt can be printed and prompting the user to finally confirm whether or not to execute printing. Screen SC2 represents buttons B21 and B22.

  After confirming the display on the screen SC2, the user touches the button B21 to execute printing, and touches the button B22 to cancel printing.

  In Act 307, the processor 401 confirms whether execution of printing has been instructed. If the processor 401 determines Yes in Act 307 because a touch on the button B21 is detected by the touch panel 404, the processor 401 proceeds to Act 308.

  In Act 308, the processor 401 transmits a predetermined request command to the receipt server 30. Specifically, the processor 401 generates a transmission file including the request command, and transmits the transmission file to the receipt server 30 from the communication interface 406 to the relay server 50.

  Note that if the processor 401 determines No in Act 307 because the touch on the button B22 is detected by the touch panel 404, the processor 401 proceeds to Act 312.

  In Act 312, the processor 401 transmits a predetermined stop command to the receipt server 30. Specifically, the processor 401 generates a transmission file including a cancel command, and transmits the transmission file from the communication interface 406 to the receipt server 30 to the relay server 50. Thereafter, the processor 401 ends the processing shown in FIG.

  The relay server 50 transfers the transmission file including the request command or the cancel command to the receipt server 30. When the transmission file including the request command or the cancel command is transmitted to the receipt server 30, the communication interface 304 receives the transmission file. The communication interface 304 stores the request command or the cancel command included in the received transmission file in the main storage device 302 or the auxiliary storage device 303.

  In the receipt server 30, the processor 301 proceeds to Act 411 in FIG. 13 after transmitting the availability data in Act 409 in FIG. 12.

  In Act 411, the processor 301 confirms whether or not a request command has been received. If the processor 301 determines No because the request command has not been received, the processor 301 proceeds to Act 412.

  In Act 412, the processor 301 confirms whether or not a stop command is received. If the processor 301 determines No because the cancel command has not been received, the processor 301 returns to Act 411. Thus, in Act 411 and Act 412, the processor 301 waits for either a request command or a cancel command to be received. If the processor 301 determines Yes in Act 412 because the cancel command has been received, the processor 301 ends the processing shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 as it is. However, if the processor 301 determines Yes in Act 411 because the request command has been received, the processor 301 proceeds to Act 413.

  In Act 413, the processor 301 confirms whether or not the number of times of printing included in the target receipt data is 1 or more. If the processor 301 determines Yes because the number of times of printing is 1 or more, the processor 301 proceeds to Act 414.

  In Act 414, the processor 301 confirms whether or not it is necessary to perform guide printing.

  Thus, in Act 413 and Act 414, the processor 301 confirms whether or not the number of times of printing is 1 or more and it is necessary to perform guide printing. If this condition is not satisfied, that is, if it is determined No in Act 413 or Act 414, the processor 301 proceeds to Act 415.

  In Act 415, the processor 301 generates first print data. The first print data is image data for issuing a paper receipt representing the content of the detailed data of the target receipt data. Thereafter, the processor 301 proceeds to Act 417.

  The processor 301 proceeds from Act 414 to Act 416 if both Act 413 and Act 414 determine Yes.

  In Act 416, the processor 301 generates second print data. The second print data represents the contents of the detailed data of the target receipt data, and is a paper receipt representing a message for guiding that it cannot be used for various certifications because it is the second and subsequent prints. Is the image data for issuing the. Thereafter, the processor 301 proceeds to Act 417.

  In Act 417, the processor 301 transmits print instruction data including the first print data or the second print data to the print processing apparatus 40. Specifically, the processor 301 generates print instruction data including the first print data when Act 415 is executed, and includes the second print data when Act 416 is executed. Then, the processor 301 generates a transmission file including the print instruction data, and transmits the transmission file from the communication interface 304 to the print processing device 40 to the relay server 50. Thereafter, the processor 301 ends the processes shown in FIGS. 12 and 13.

  The relay server 50 transfers the transmission file to the print processing device 40. When the transmission file including the print instruction data is transmitted to the print processing apparatus 40, the communication interface 406 receives the transmission file. The communication interface 406 stores the print instruction data included in the received transmission file in the main storage device 402 or the auxiliary storage device 403.

  In the print processing apparatus 40, the processor 401 proceeds to Act 309 after transmitting the request command as described above in Act 308 in FIG.

  In Act 309, the processor 401 confirms whether print instruction data has been received. If the processor 401 determines No because the print instruction data has not been received, the processor 401 repeats Act 309. Thus, in Act 304, the processor 401 waits for reception of print instruction data. If the processor 401 determines Yes because the print instruction data has been received as described above, the processor 401 proceeds to Act 310.

  In Act 310, the processor 401 sends the first or second print data included in the print instruction data to the printer 405, and instructs printing.

  The printer 405 prints a receipt image represented by the first or second print data on a print medium. Thereby, a paper receipt based on the target receipt is printed. Thus, when the processor 401 executes the control process based on the print processing application P41, the computer having the processor 401 as a central part functions as a print control unit.

  In Act 311, the processor 301 sets the display on the touch panel 404 as the third guidance display. Then, the processor 301 ends the processing shown in FIG.

  A screen SC3 shown in FIG. 11 is an example of a screen for displaying a third guidance.

  Screen SC3 represents a text message for notifying the user that printing of the paper receipt has been completed.

  By the way, if the processor 401 determines No in Act 305 because the received availability data indicates rejection of printing, the processor 401 proceeds to Act 313.

  In Act 313, the processor 401 sets the display on the touch panel 404 as the fourth guidance display.

  A screen SC4 shown in FIG. 11 is an example of a screen for displaying a fourth guidance.

  Screen SC4 represents a text message for notifying the user that the paper receipt cannot be printed. Screen SC4 represents button B31.

  The user touches the button B31 after confirming the display on the screen SC4.

  In Act 314, the processor 401 confirms whether or not the user has accepted. If the processor 401 determines No because the touch on the button B31 is not detected by the touch panel 404, the processor 401 repeats Act 314. Therefore, in Act 314, the processor 401 waits for the user's consent. If the processor 401 determines Yes in Act 314 because a touch on the button B31 is detected by the touch panel 404, the processor 401 ends the processing illustrated in FIG.

  As described above, in the electronic receipt system 100, the print processing apparatus 40 prints a paper receipt based on the receipt data managed by the receipt server 30 in response to an operation by the user. However, if the condition defined in the condition data is not met, the paper receipt is not printed. For this reason, the issue of the paper receipt after issuing the electronic receipt can be appropriately limited.

  In the electronic receipt system 100, conditions for each company can be defined in the condition data, and the paper receipt can be printed based on the conditions defined for the company operating the print processing apparatus 40 that is going to print the paper receipt. Decide whether or not to allow. Therefore, it is possible to adapt to differences in policies for each company regarding printing of paper receipts.

  In the electronic receipt system 100, the print processing device 40 receives the print request data transmitted from the portable information terminal 20 and performs a process for printing a paper receipt. Accordingly, user operations for login and selection of receipt data to be printed can be performed on the portable information terminal 20 owned by the user. As a result, the time for one user to occupy the print processing apparatus 40 can be shortened. Further, it is possible to prevent the information for login, the contents of the receipt, and the like from being viewed by others around the print processing apparatus 40.

  This embodiment can be variously modified as follows.

  User operations for login and selection of receipt data to be printed may be accepted by the print processing apparatus 40.

  The condition data may be such that only one type of condition can be defined.

  The storage device that stores the receipt data and the receipt management apparatus that manages the receipt data stored in the storage device may be configured as separate apparatuses.

  The print processing apparatus 40 may not include the printer 405 and may cause a separate receipt printer to print a paper receipt.

  Receipt data may be sent from the receipt server 30 to the print processing apparatus 40 and an image for printing a paper receipt may be generated by the print processing apparatus 40.

  Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalents thereof.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... POS terminal, 20 ... Portable information terminal, 20 ... Portable information terminal, 30 ... Receipt server, 40 ... Print processing apparatus, 50 ... Relay server, 60 ... Network, 100 ... Electronic receipt system, 200 ... Network, 101 ... Processor DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 102 ... Main storage device 103 ... Auxiliary storage device 104 ... Communication interface 105 ... I / O interface 106 ... System transmission path 201 ... Processor 202 ... Main storage device 203 ... Auxiliary storage device 204 ... Touch panel , 205 ... Communication interface, 206 ... Wireless interface, 207 ... System transmission path, 301 ... Processor, 302 ... Main storage device, 303 ... Auxiliary storage device, 304 ... Communication interface, 305 ... System transmission path, 401 ... Processor, 402 ... main Memory device 403 Auxiliary storage device 404 Touch panel 405 Printer 406 Communication interface 407 Wireless interface 408 System transmission path P11 Payment program P21 Receipt client application P31 Receipt server application P32 ... Print control application, P41 ... Print processing application.

Claims (6)

In a receipt management device that constitutes a receipt printing system together with a print processing device,
A management unit for storing and managing receipt data generated as representing the contents of a commercial transaction in a storage device;
A confirmation unit for confirming that the receipt data subject to the print permission requested by the print processing apparatus satisfies the printable condition;
A permission unit for permitting the print processing apparatus to perform receipt printing based on the receipt data that is a target of the printing permission in response to confirming that the printable condition is satisfied by the confirmation unit;
A receipt management apparatus comprising: The permission unit uses a condition defined by condition data as the printable condition.
The receipt management apparatus according to claim 1. The permission unit uses, as the printable condition, a condition associated with a company operating the print processing apparatus among a plurality of conditions defined by condition data.
The receipt management apparatus according to claim 2. In a receipt printing system including a receipt management device and a print processing device,
A management unit that is provided in the receipt management device and stores and manages receipt data generated as representing the contents of a commercial transaction in a storage device;
A selection unit that is provided in the print processing apparatus and that selects one of the receipt data managed by the management unit according to a user's designation;
A request unit that is provided in the print processing apparatus and requests the receipt management apparatus to permit printing for the receipt data selected by the selection unit;
A confirmation unit that is provided in the receipt management device and that confirms that the receipt data that is a target of print permission requested by the request unit satisfies a printable condition;
Provided in the receipt management apparatus, and when the confirmation unit confirms that the printable condition is satisfied, the receipt processing based on the receipt data that is the object of the print permission is performed on the print processing apparatus. An authorization unit to authorize,
A print control unit that is provided in the print processing apparatus and controls the printer to print a receipt image based on the receipt data as a target on a print medium in response to receipt printing being permitted by the permission unit; ,
A receipt printing system comprising:   The said selection unit acquires the data about the receipt data designated by the said user with the terminal device from the said terminal device, and selects the receipt data shown by the said data Receipt printing system. A computer that controls a receipt management apparatus that constitutes a receipt printing system together with a print processing apparatus and that manages receipt data that is generated to represent the contents of a commercial transaction and stored in a storage device,
A confirmation unit for confirming that the receipt data subject to the print permission requested by the print processing apparatus satisfies the printable condition;
A permission unit for permitting the print processing apparatus to perform receipt printing based on the receipt data that is a target of the printing permission in response to confirming that the printable condition is satisfied by the confirmation unit;
Control program to function.