JP2019046510A - Registration device and control program - Google Patents

Abstract

To eliminate the need for an information analysis function for a registration device to monitor the state of each settlement device.SOLUTION: The registration device transmits accounting data to at least two or more settlement devices. Upon receipt of the accounting data, each settlement device returns a response about whether or not settlement processing can be performed to the registration device. The registration device transmits data indicating a response result from each settlement device to each settlement device. Upon receipt of the data indicating the response result, each settlement device determines whether or not to execute settlement processing on the basis of the data. Then, when it is determined that the settlement processing is to be executed, it is notified to the registration device to bring about a state in which settlement can be started. Upon receipt of a notification from any one settlement device, the registration device reports the settlement device having made that notification.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

  Embodiments of the present invention relate to a checkout system, a registration device and a payment device included in the system, and a control program for causing a computer to function as a registration device or a payment device.

  As a checkout system for mass retailers, there is a type in which a registration device for generating accounting data necessary for settlement of the transaction for each transaction and a settlement device for processing the settlement of the transaction based on the accounting data are separated. . The registration device waits for input of data related to product sales. Then, when data is input by the operator, the registration device generates accounting data based on the data, and transmits the accounting data to the settlement device. The settlement device waits for the input of payment data for the accounting data. Then, when payment data is input by the operator, the settlement device processes transaction settlement based on the accounting data and the payment data. In a checkout system of a type in which the registration device and the settlement device are separated, a two-person system in which the clerk operates the registration device and the settlement device, and a shop clerk operates the registration device and the shopper is a shopper There is a so-called semi-self system, a sharing system operated by

  In the case of the semi-self method, if the shopper takes time to operate the settlement apparatus, the subsequent shopper will wait for settlement. In order to avoid such a situation, a plurality of payment devices are usually connected to one registration device. Then, the registration device monitors the state of each settlement device, automatically selects a vacant settlement device, and transmits the settlement information to the settlement device. Alternatively, the registration device causes the display to display the status of each settlement device, selects a settlement device with a vacant clerk, and transmits settlement information to the settlement device.

  However, in any case, the registration device needs an information analysis function to collect and analyze status information (status) from the payment device in order to monitor the status of each payment device.

JP, 2013-242839, A

  The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a checkout system that can eliminate the need for an information analysis function for the registration device to monitor the state of each settlement device, and a registration device and a settlement device used in this system. It is said that.

In one embodiment, the checkout system connects, via a network, a registration device that generates, for each transaction, accounting data required to settle the transaction and a plurality of settlement devices that process transaction settlement based on the accounting data. It will be done.
The registration device includes storage means, transmission means, and notification means. The storage means waits for a response indicating whether or not settlement processing from at least two settlement devices is possible with respect to the generated accounting data, and stores data indicating the result of the response together with the priority for each settlement device. The transmission means transmits the data stored by the storage means to two or more settlement devices. The notification means waits for notification of execution of the settlement process from the two or more settlement devices that has transmitted the data stored in the storage means, and when the notification is received from any one of the settlement devices, the settlement device that has received the notification To inform
The settlement apparatus includes response means, determination means, and processing means. The response means transmits, to the registration device, a response as to whether or not payment processing is possible. Whether the determination device is the highest priority payment device that has made a response that processing of payment is possible from the data in response to receiving the data stored in the storage device from the registration device is the own device or not Determine The processing means notifies the registration device that processing of the settlement process is to be performed and the settlement can be started when the settlement apparatus having the highest priority in response to processing of the settlement is the own apparatus. Do.

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a checkout system in one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of a registration device and a payment device included in the checkout system. The schematic diagram which shows the main data memory area | region formed in RAM of each of a registration apparatus and a payment apparatus. FIG. 3 is a schematic view showing main data memory areas formed in a registration device RAM and an auxiliary storage device. The flowchart which shows the main procedure of the information processing which CPU of a registration device performs according to a control program. The flowchart which shows the main procedure of the information processing which CPU of a registration device performs according to a control program. The flowchart which shows the main procedure of the information processing which CPU of a payment apparatus performs according to a control program. FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing an example of a registration screen displayed on the touch panel of the registration device. The schematic diagram which shows an example of the accounting confirmation screen displayed on the touch panel of a registration apparatus. The schematic diagram which shows an example of the accounting confirmation screen when an accountable response is received. The schematic diagram which shows an example of the accounting confirmation screen when an accounting impossibility response is received. The schematic diagram which shows an example of the payment method selection screen displayed on the touch panel of a payment apparatus. The schematic diagram which shows an example of the payment screen displayed on the touch panel of a payment apparatus. The schematic diagram which shows an example of the completion screen displayed on the touch panel of a payment apparatus. The flowchart which shows the main procedure of the information processing which CPU of a registration apparatus performs according to a control program in 2nd Embodiment. The flowchart which shows the main procedure of the information processing which CPU of a payment apparatus performs according to a control program in 2nd Embodiment.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of a checkout system in which the registration device can dispense with the information analysis function for monitoring the state of each settlement device will be described using the drawings. In the present embodiment, a semi-self checkout system is exemplified in which a clerk operates a registration device and a shopper operates a settlement device.

First Embodiment
FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a checkout system 10 according to the first embodiment. The checkout system 10 includes a plurality of registration devices 11 and payment devices 12 having a larger number than the registration devices 11. The registration device 11 and the settlement device 12 are arranged for each checkout lane of the store.

  In FIG. 1, two registration devices 11 (11-1, 11-2) and six payment devices 12 (12-1, 12-2, 12-3, 12-4, 12-5, 12- 6) shows the case where two checkout lanes are arranged. In one checkout lane, one registration device 11 (11-1) and three settlement devices 12 (12-1, 12-2, 12-3) are arranged. Then, three settlement devices 12 (12-1, 12-2, 12-3) arranged in the same checkout lane are grouped with respect to the registration device 11 (11-1). Similarly, in the other checkout lane, one registration device 11 (11-2) and three settlement devices 12 (12-4, 12-5, 12-6) are arranged. Then, with respect to the registration device 11 (11-2), three payment devices 12 (12-4, 12-5, 12-6) arranged in the same checkout lane are grouped. Incidentally, simultaneous transmission of data from the registration device 11 to each settlement device 12 is possible between one registration device 11 and a plurality of settlement devices 12 grouped by grouping. The data transmitted from each settlement device 12 is received by the registration device 11 or the settlement device 12 in the same group.

  Note that how many checkout systems 10 each include the registration device 11 and the payment device 12 is optional. Further, the ratio of the number of registration devices 11 and the number of payment devices 12 arranged in the checkout lane is also arbitrary.

  In the registration device 11, a store clerk 21 who plays a role called a checker is the operator. The settlement apparatus 12 operates as a shopper 22 who purchases a product to be sold at a store. However, the settlement apparatus 12 may be operated by the store clerk 21.

  The registration device 11 is attached to the work table 23 in FIG. The work table 23 has a rectangular top. A plurality of work tables 23 are arranged so that the longitudinal directions of the top plates are substantially parallel to each other, thereby forming a passage (checkout lane) for the shopper 22.

  The registration device 11 has functions of registration of a sales product, generation of accounting data and transfer of accounting data to the settlement device 12, and settlement processing. The registration of the sale item is to register the item purchased by the shopper 22 in the registration device 11 as the sale item. For example, by scanning a barcode attached to a product with a scanner, the product is registered in the registration device 11 as a sales product. The accounting data is data relating to the accounting of sales products registered as one transaction. The accounting data includes a product code, which is an identification code of a sales product, a product name, a unit price, a quantity, an amount, and the like. The settlement process is to process settlement of a transaction which is a commodity buying and selling act based on accounting data. For payment, cash, a credit card, electronic money, etc. are used as the payment.

  The settlement device 12 has a settlement processing function. That is, when the accounting data is transferred from the registration device 11, the settlement apparatus 12 processes transaction settlement based on the accounting data.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the registration device 11 and the settlement device 12. The registration device 11 and the settlement device 12 are both connected to a LAN (local area network) 13 which is a network. Although not shown, a server is connected to the LAN 13. The server has a product database in which product information such as product name and unit price is set in association with the product code of each product.

  The registration device 11 and the settlement device 12 exchange information via the LAN 13. The network may use another communication network such as the Internet or a wireless LAN instead of the LAN 13. Further, information may be exchanged between the registration device 11 and the payment device 12 via the server.

  The registration device 11 includes a CPU (central processing unit) 11a, a ROM (read-only memory) 11b, a RAM (random-access memory) 11c, an auxiliary storage unit 11d, a drawer opening unit 11e, a scanner 11f, and two touch panels 11g1 and 11g2. , A printer 11h, a card reader / writer 11i, a communication unit 11j, and a transmission system 11k.

The CPU 11a is connected to the ROM 11b, the RAM 11c, and the auxiliary storage unit 11d via the transmission system 11k to configure a computer.
The CPU 11a corresponds to the central part of the computer. The CPU 11a controls each unit to realize various functions as the registration device 11 based on the operating system, the middleware, and the application program stored in the ROM 11b and the RAM 11c.

  The ROM 11 b corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The ROM 11 b stores the operating system. The ROM 11 b may store the above middleware or application program. The ROM 11 b may store data to be referred to when the CPU 11 a performs various processes.

  The RAM 11 c corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The RAM 11 c stores data to be referred to when the CPU 11 a performs various processes. The RAM 11 c is also used as a so-called work area in which data temporarily used when the CPU 11 a performs various processes is stored.

  The auxiliary storage unit 11d corresponds to an auxiliary storage portion of the computer. The auxiliary storage unit 11d stores data used when the CPU 11a performs various processes, or data generated by the process of the CPU 11a. For example, an EEPROM (electric erasable programmable read-only memory), an HDD (hard disk drive), an SSD (solid state drive), or the like can be used as the auxiliary storage unit 11 d.

  The application program stored in the ROM 11 b or the auxiliary storage unit 11 d includes a control program described regarding the information processing executed by the registration device 11. Transfer of the registration device 11 is generally performed in a state where the control program is stored in the ROM 11 b or the auxiliary storage unit 11 d. However, the registration device 11 may be transferred in a state where the control program is not stored in the ROM 11 b or the auxiliary storage unit 11 d. In this case, the control program is transferred to a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk, a semiconductor memory or the like. Alternatively, the control program may be transferred via the network, and the control program may be written to the auxiliary storage unit 11 d of the registration device 11 separately transferred.

The drawer opening unit 11e automatically opens the drawer for storing money.
The scanner 11 f reads the barcode attached to the product to obtain the product code of the product. Various known types of scanners can be used as the scanner 11 f as they are. The scanner 11 f may correspond to only one of various known types, or may correspond to a plurality of types. That is, the scanner 11 f may include a fixed or handy two-dimensional code scanner. The scanner 11 f may also include a scanner of a type that identifies an item from an image of the item using image recognition technology.

  Of the two touch panels 11g1 and 11g2, one touch panel 11g1 is for the store clerk, and the other touch panel 11g2 is for the customer. The touch panels 11g1 and 11g2 each include a display device and a touch sensor. The display device sets the display screen as an arbitrary screen such as a GUI screen. As a display device, for example, a known device such as a color LCD can be used. The touch sensor is disposed so as to overlap the display surface of the display device. The touch sensor detects the touch position of the operator on the display surface of the display device, and sends the position information to the CPU 11a. A well-known device can be used as a touch sensor.

  The touch panel 11g1 for the store clerk is provided on the work table 23 so that the display screen faces the work space side of the store clerk 21. The touch panel 11g2 for customers is provided on the work table 23 so that the display screen faces the aisle side for the shopper 22.

  The printer 11 h issues a receipt by printing various character strings or images on receipt paper. For example, a thermal printer or a dot impact printer can be used as this type of printer 11 h.

  The card reader / writer 11i has a function of reading data recorded in a card and a function of writing data in the card. The card may include a payment card such as a credit card, a debit card, an electronic money card, a prepaid card, etc., as well as a membership card called a members' card or a point card. The card reader / writer 11i reads and rewrites data (such as balance) of electronic money stored in the electronic money card. The card reader / writer 11i may be any device of magnetic type, contact type or non-contact type, and may include a plurality of types of devices.

  The communication unit 11 j performs data communication with a plurality of payment devices 12 connected via the LAN 13. The communication unit 11 j can also perform data communication with another registration device 11 via the LAN 13.

  The transmission system 11k transmits data transferred between the CPU 11a, the ROM 11b, the RAM 11c, the auxiliary storage unit 11d, the drawer opening unit 11e, the scanner 11f, the touch panels 11g1 and 11g2, the printer 11h, the card reader / writer 11i and the communication unit 11j. . As the transmission system 11k, known ones can be used including various buses such as a system bus and various interface circuits connecting the buses and the respective units.

  As hardware of such a registration device 11, it is possible to use, for example, an existing POS terminal.

  The settlement apparatus 12 includes a CPU 12a, a ROM 12b, a RAM 12c, an auxiliary storage unit 12d, an automatic change machine 12e, a scanner 12f, a touch panel 12g, a printer 12h, a card reader / writer 12i, a communication unit 12j and a transmission system 12k.

  The automatic change machine 12e receives coins and bills to be inserted. The automatic change machine 12e also discharges coins and bills as change.

  The other functions of the CPU 12a, the ROM 12b, the RAM 12c, the auxiliary storage unit 12d, the scanner 12f, the touch panel 12g, the printer 12h, the card reader / writer 12i, the communication unit 12j and the transmission system 12k are the CPU 11a, the ROM 11b, the RAM 11c and the auxiliary storage of the registration device 11. It is equivalent to the unit 11d, the touch panels 11g1 and 11g2, the printer 11h, the card reader / writer 11i, the communication unit 11j, and the transmission system 11k.

  That is, the CPU 12a is connected to the ROM 11b, the RAM 11c, and the auxiliary storage unit 11d via the transmission system 11k to configure a computer. Then, the CPU 12a controls each unit to realize various operations as the settlement apparatus 12 based on the operating system, the middleware, and the application program stored in the ROM 12b and the RAM 12c.

  The application program stored in the ROM 12 b or the auxiliary storage unit 12 d includes a control program described regarding the information processing executed by the settlement apparatus 12. Transfer of the settlement apparatus 12 is generally performed in a state where the control program is stored in the ROM 12 b or the auxiliary storage unit 12 d. However, the settlement apparatus 12 may be transferred in a state where the control program is not stored in the ROM 12 b or the auxiliary storage unit 12 d. In this case, the control program is transferred to a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk, a semiconductor memory or the like. Alternatively, the control program may be transferred via the network, and the control program may be written to the auxiliary storage unit 12 d of the separately transferred settlement device 12 described above.

  As hardware of such a settlement apparatus 12, it is possible to use, for example, a POS terminal compatible with the existing self system.

  The checkout system 10 including the registration device 11 and the settlement device 12 configured as described above forms the data memory areas 31 and 32 shown in FIG. 3 in the registration devices 11 and the RAMs 11 c and 12 c of the settlement device 12 respectively.

  The data memory area 31 is an area for storing data of a sale item in one transaction. The data includes items of product code, product name, unit price, quantity, and amount. The product code is a unique code for identifying each product individually. For example, a product code represented by a barcode is attached to each product, and the registration device 11 can obtain the product code by scanning the barcode with the scanner 11 f. The item name and unit price are the item name and the price per point of the item identified by the corresponding item code. The number is the number of pieces sold of the same product, and the amount is the amount for the number of pieces sold (sales amount). Hereinafter, the data memory area 31 is referred to as transaction memory. Then, the one of the registration device 11 is represented by the transaction memory 31a, and the one of the settlement device 12 is represented by the transaction memory 31b.

  The data memory area 32 is an area for storing the total number and the total amount. The total number is the sum of the sales number stored in the transaction memory 31. The total amount is the sum of the sales amounts stored in the transaction memory 31. Hereinafter, the data memory area 32 is referred to as a total memory. Then, the one of the registration device 11 is represented by the total memory 32a, and the one of the settlement device 12 is represented by the total memory 32b.

  Further, the checkout system 10 forms the data memory area 41 shown in FIG. 4 in the RAM 11 c of the registration device 11 and forms the data memory area 42 in the auxiliary storage unit 11 d of the registration device 11.

  The data memory area 41 is an area for temporarily storing a product code, a product name, a unit price, a quantity, and an amount of one sales product. The data memory area 41 is hereinafter referred to as a temporary buffer 41.

  The data memory area 42 is an area for storing information on the plurality of payment devices 12 grouped in the registration device 11. That is, in FIG. 1, the data memory area 42 of the registration device 11 (11-1) stores information on the three settlement devices 12 (12-1, 12-2, 12-3). In the data memory area 42 of the registration device 11 (11-2), information on the three settlement devices 12 (12-4, 12-5, 12-6) is stored.

  The information on the settlement device 12 includes a priority number, a settlement device ID, an identification name, and response data. The priority number is an integer starting from “1”, and the numerical value indicates the priority. That is, the priority number "1" indicates the first priority, and the priority number "2" indicates the second priority. The settlement device ID is assigned to each settlement device 12 in order to identify each settlement device 12 individually, and is, for example, a unique ID stored in the ROM 12 b. Incidentally, the same registration device ID is stored in the ROM 11 b for each registration device 11. The identification name is a unique name set individually for each settlement device 12. The operator of the registration device 11 can determine which payment device 12 is indicated from the identification name. The response data indicates whether settlement processing is possible in the settlement apparatus 12 identified by the corresponding settlement apparatus ID. For example, the response data "OK" indicates that payment processing is possible. The response data "NG" represents that payment processing is impossible. The response data “OK” or “NG” is described for convenience of explanation, and actual data is not limited to this. For example, the response data is 1-bit flag data, and “1” may indicate that settlement processing is possible, and “0” may indicate that settlement processing is impossible. The data memory area is hereinafter referred to as a group table 42.

  In the group table 42, payment device IDs and identification names of the payment devices 12 grouped with respect to the registration device 11 having the group table 42 are stored in advance. At this time, for the priority number "1", the settlement device ID and the identification name of the settlement device 12 whose priority is set to the first place in the registration device 11 are stored. Similarly, for the priority number "2", the settlement device ID and identification name of the settlement device 12 for which the priority is set to the second place are stored, and in the area of the priority number "3", the priority is 3 The settlement device ID and identification name of the settlement device 12 set to the rank are stored. The priority is set higher, for example, as the distance from the registration device 11 is shorter. In addition, the setting method of a priority is not limited to the distance of the registration apparatus 11 and the payment apparatus 12. FIG.

  FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 are flowcharts showing the main procedures of information processing executed by the CPU 11a of the registration device 11 in accordance with the control program. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by the CPU 12a of the settlement apparatus 12 in accordance with the control program. FIGS. 8 to 11 are schematic views showing various screen examples displayed on the touch panels 11g1 and 11g2 of the registration device 11, respectively. 12 to 14 are schematic views showing various screen examples displayed on the touch panel 12 g of the settlement apparatus 12. Hereinafter, the operation of the checkout system 10 will be described using these figures. The contents of the processes described below are merely examples, and various processes that can obtain similar results can be appropriately used.

  The registration device 11 has a registration mode as one of the operation modes. When the registration device 11 is activated in this registration mode, the CPU 11a starts control processing of the procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. First, the CPU 11a initializes the RAM 11c (Act 1). By this initialization, the transaction memory 31a, the total memory 32a and the temporary buffer 41 are cleared.

  Next, the CPU 11a causes the registration screen SC1 (see FIG. 8) to be displayed on part of the screen of the touch panel 11g (Act 2).

  The registration screen SC1 displays the contents of the temporary buffer 41, the transaction memory 31a, and the total memory 32a, and causes the store clerk 21 to confirm the implementation status of the registration process. An example of the registration screen SC1 is shown in FIG. The registration screen SC1 includes display areas R1 and R2. The display area R1 includes a display field r11 in which the product name and unit price of the most recently registered product are displayed, a display field r12 in which the number is displayed, a display field r13 in which the amount is displayed, and one transaction. A display field r14 is formed in which the total number and the total amount of each product registered for sale are displayed. In the display area R2, a list of product names, numbers, unit prices and amounts of products sold and registered prior to the products shown in the display area R1 is formed.

  Although not shown, the CPU 11a instructs the store clerk 21 to designate a product outside the area set as the registration screen SC1 in the screen of the touch panel 11g, and instructs the store clerk 21 to output the subtotal. It also displays various function buttons such as subtotal buttons.

  If the store clerk 21 confirms that the registration screen SC1 is displayed on the touch panel 11g, it recognizes that the registration of the product purchased by the shopper 22 is possible. Then, when the shopper 22 brings the purchased item and comes to the work table 23, the store clerk 21 operates the scanner 11f and the item button, for example, to sequentially enter the item code of the item. Then, when the commodity codes of all the commodities have been input, the clerk 21 touches the subtotal button. By the above operation, registration of a product purchased by one shopper (sales registration of one transaction) is completed.

  In response to such a registration operation, the CPU 11a of the registration device 11 executes the following information processing. First, the CPU 11a that has displayed the registration screen SC1 waits for an input of a product code (Act 3). When a product code is input via the scanner 11f or the product button (YES in Act 3), the CPU 11a acquires product information such as a product name, a unit price, etc., which is set in the product database in association with the product code. . Further, the CPU 11a multiplies this unit price by the number to calculate the amount of money for the number. The number is a numerical value when it is substituted by a ten key or the like before the product code is input, and is “1” when it is not substituted. After the CPU 11a generates commodity sales data including the commodity code, the commodity name, the unit price, the number and the amount, the CPU 11a stores the commodity sales data in the temporary buffer 41 (Act 4). At this time, if the commodity sales data is already stored in the temporary buffer 41, the CPU 11a moves the stored commodity sales data to the transaction memory 31, and then temporarily stores the new commodity sales data in the temporary buffer 41. Store in

  The CPU 11a adds the number and the amount stored in the temporary buffer 41 to the total memory 32a. Then, the CPU 11a updates the registration screen SC1 so that the contents of the temporary buffer 41 and the total memory 32a are displayed in the display area R1 and the contents of the transaction memory 31a are displayed in the display area R2 (Act 5).

  After updating the registration screen SC1, the CPU 11a checks whether the next product code has been input (Act 6). If the product code is not input (NO in Act 6), the CPU 11a checks whether the subtotal button is touched (Act 7). If the subtotal button is not touched (NO in Act 7), the CPU 11a checks again if the product code is input (Act 6). Thus, the CPU 11a waits for the commodity code to be input or the subtotal button to be touched as Act 6 and Act 7. When the CPU 11a confirms the occurrence of another event such as another operation being performed in the standby state, the CPU 11a shifts to processing according to the occurrence event. Such an operation is the same in other standby states.

  In the standby state of Act 6 and Act 7, when the product code is input (YES in Act 6), the CPU 11a proceeds to the process of Act 4. Then, the CPU 11a repeats the subsequent processing in the same manner as described above.

  If the subtotal button is touched in the standby state of Act 6 and Act 7 (YES in Act 7), the CPU 11a executes the processing of Act 8 and Act 9. The processing procedure of Act 8 and Act 9 is not limited to this order. The order may be reversed.

  In Act 8, the CPU 11 a moves the commodity sales data stored in the temporary buffer 41 to the transaction memory 31. Then, the CPU 11a generates accounting data from the data of the transaction memory 31a and the data of the total memory 32a (generation means). At this time, the CPU 11a generates accounting data in a text file format. In Act 9, the CPU 11a causes the accounting confirmation screen SC2 (see FIG. 9) to be displayed on part of the screen of the touch panel 11g.

  An example of the accounting confirmation screen SC2 is shown in FIG. The accounting confirmation screen SC2 includes a display area R3 and buttons B1, B2, B3 and B4. The display area R3 displays the total number of the total memory 32a, the total amount of money, and the like. Buttons B1 and B2 are a subtotal discount button B1 and a subtotal discount button B2 for the store clerk 21 to designate that the discount or discount is applied to the total amount. The button B3 is a return button B3 for the store clerk 21 to designate that a partial area of the screen of the touch panel 11g be returned to the registration screen SC1. The button B4 is an accounting button B4 for the store clerk 21 to instruct the shift to the accounting after the registration of the product for one transaction is completed.

  The CPU 11a that has displayed the accounting confirmation screen SC2 confirms whether the accounting button has been input (Act 10). If the accounting button is not input (NO in Act 10), the CPU 11a confirms whether the back button B3 is input (Act 11). If the back button B3 is not input (NO in Act 11), the CPU 11a checks again whether the accounting button is input (Act 10). Thus, the CPU 11a waits for either the accounting button B4 to be input or the return button B3 to be input as Act10 and Act11.

  The clerk 21 who has confirmed the accounting confirmation screen SC2 confirms whether or not the product purchased by the shopper 22 is still registered. If it remains, the store clerk 21 touches the back button B3. If not, the store clerk 21 touches the accounting button B4.

  When the back button B3 is input in the standby state of Act10 and Act11 (YES in Act11), the CPU 11a returns a partial area of the screen of the touch panel 11g to the registration screen SC1 (Act12). Thereafter, the CPU 11a proceeds to the process of Act 6 and repeats the subsequent processes in the same manner as described above.

  When the accounting button B4 is touched in Act 10 and Act 11 standby states (YES in Act 10), the CPU 11a proceeds to the process of Act 13 of FIG. That is, the CPU 11a instructs the communication unit 11j to collectively transmit the accounting data in the text file format to the grouped payment devices 12 (Act 13). In response to this command, the communication unit 11 j sets each settlement device ID set in the group table 42 as a transmission destination, sets the registration device ID stored in the ROM 11 b as a transmission source, and transmits accounting data in text file format on the LAN 13. Send to The accounting data is received by the plurality of settlement devices 12 whose settlement device ID as the transmission destination matches the settlement device ID stored in the ROM 12 b. Here, the CPU 11a cooperates with the communication unit 11j to constitute a first transmission means.

  When the CPU 12a of each settlement device 12 receives the accounting data in the text file format via the communication unit 12j, whether or not the settlement device ID added to the data as a transmission destination matches the settlement device ID stored in the ROM 12b Make sure. If they do not match, the CPU 12a discards the accounting data. If they match, the CPU 12a takes in accounting data and stores it in the text file format in a predetermined area of the RAM 12c. Then, the CPU 12a starts the reception interrupt process specifically shown in FIG. Here, the CPU 12a cooperates with the communication unit 12j to configure receiving means.

  When the reception interrupt process is started, the CPU 12a first checks the busy flag F (Act 31). The busy flag F is 1-bit data which is set to "1" while the CPU 12a is processing the settlement of the transaction based on the accounting data, and reset to "0" when the processing is completed, and is stored in the RAM 12c There is. Thus, while the busy flag F is set, the settlement apparatus 12 is executing settlement processing. For this reason, the settlement device 12 can not process settlement of a new transaction.

  When busy flag F is reset (YES in Act 31), that is, when settlement device 12 is ready to execute settlement processing of a new transaction, CPU 12a notifies that settlement processing is possible. The communication unit 12 j is instructed to transmit an accounting-possible (OK) response to the registration apparatus 11 of the accounting data transmission source (Act 32). In response to this command, the communication unit 12 j sets command data of an accounting-enabled response on the LAN 13 with the registered device ID set as the transmission source of the accounting data as the transmission destination and the settlement device ID stored in the ROM 12 b as the transmission source. Send. The command data is received by the registration device 11 whose registration device ID as the transmission destination matches the registration device ID stored in the ROM 11 b.

If the busy flag F is set (NO in Act 31), that is, if the settlement apparatus 12 can not execute the settlement process of the new transaction, the CPU 12a determines that the settlement process is impossible. The communication unit 12 j is instructed to transmit the accounting non-permission (NG) response to be notified to the registration device 11 of the accounting data transmission source (Act 33). In response to this command, the communication unit 12 j sets the command data of the accounting impossible response having the registration device ID set as the transmission source of the accounting data as the transmission destination and the settlement device ID stored in the ROM 12 b as the transmission source. Send. The command data is received by the registration device 11 whose registration device ID as the transmission destination matches the registration device ID stored in the ROM 11 b.
Here, the CPU 12a cooperates with the communication unit 12j to configure a response means.

  In Act 13 of FIG. 6, the CPU 11a of the registration device 11 that has transmitted the accounting data confirms whether the command data of the accounting enablement response or the accounting non-ability response from the settlement device 12 has been received as Act14. If the command data has not been received (NO in Act 14), the CPU 11a checks whether the time elapsed since the transmission of the accounting data as Act 15 has reached a preset timeout time. The timeout time is set to a time sufficient to receive the command data. From the plurality of settlement devices 12 having received the accounting data, command data of an accounting-enabled response or an accounting-non-accountable response is transmitted, respectively. At this time, since a data collision may occur, the timeout time is set in consideration of the data collision.

  If the elapsed time has not reached the timeout time (NO in Act 15), the CPU 11a checks again whether command data has been received (Act 14). Thus, as Act 14 and Act 15, the CPU 11a receives command data of an accounting enablement response or an accounting non-availability response, or waits for the elapsed time to reach the timeout time.

  When command data of an accounting enablement response or an accounting non-availability response is received (YES in Act 14), the CPU 11a writes the response data in the group table 42 based on the command data as Act 16. That is, the CPU 11a detects the payment apparatus ID that is the transmission source from the received command data. Then, the CPU 11a writes "OK" for the response data associated with the payment apparatus ID in the group table 42 if the command data is an accounting-enabled response, and "NG" if it is an accounting-impossible response. Write

  The CPU 11a that has written the response data in the group table 42 determines whether the response is completed or not as Act17. When the command data of the accountable response or the non-accountable response is received from all the settlement apparatuses 12 that have transmitted the accounting data, the CPU 11a recognizes that the response is completed. When the command data of the accountable response or the non-accountable response is not received from at least one payment apparatus 12, the CPU 11a determines that the response is not completed.

  If the response has not been completed (NO in Act 17), the CPU 11a returns to Act 14, and waits for command data to be received or for the elapsed time to reach the timeout time.

  If the response is completed (YES in Act 17), or if the elapsed time has reached the timeout time (YES in Act 15), the CPU 11a creates data indicating the response result from the settlement apparatus 12 as Act 18. Specifically, the CPU 11a reads the priority number, the payment apparatus ID and the response data as one set from the group table 42 in the ascending order of the priority number, and arranges each set, for example, in the ascending order of the priority number. I assume. The CPU 11a instructs the communication unit 11j to collectively transmit data indicating the response result to the grouped payment devices 12. In response to this command, the communication unit 11 j sets all the settlement device IDs set in the group table 42 as the transmission destination, the registration device ID stored in the ROM 11 b as the transmission source, and data indicating the response result on the LAN 13 Send. The data indicating the response result is received by the plurality of settlement devices 12 whose settlement device ID as the transmission destination matches the settlement device ID stored in the ROM 12 b. Here, the CPU 11a cooperates with the communication unit 11j to configure a second transmission unit.

  The CPU 12a of the settlement apparatus 12 that has transmitted command data of an accounting-enabled response or accounting-non-enabled response as Act 32 or Act 33 processing waits for data indicating a response result from the registration apparatus 11 as Act 34. If the data indicating the response result is received (YES in Act 34), the CPU 12a searches the data for a payment device ID satisfying the execution condition of the payment processing as Act 35.

  Specifically, the CPU 12a first detects a set having the smallest priority number from the data indicating the response result. Then, the CPU 12a confirms whether or not the response data of this set is data “OK” of the accounting enabled response. When it is data "OK" of the accountable response, the CPU 12a sets the settlement device ID of this group as a settlement device ID satisfying the execution condition of the settlement process. On the other hand, if it is data "NG" of the accounting impossibility response, the CPU 12a detects a group having the next lowest priority number. Then, the CPU 12a confirms whether or not the response data of this set is data “OK” of the accounting enabled response. When it is data "OK" of the accountable response, the CPU 12a sets the settlement device ID of this group as a settlement device ID satisfying the execution condition of the settlement process. On the other hand, if it is data "NG" of the accounting impossibility response, the CPU 12a detects a group whose priority number is the second smallest.

  As described above, the CPU 12a examines the response data for each pair in ascending order of priority number, and first sets the settlement device ID of the pair for which the data “OK” of the accountable response is detected to a settlement device ID satisfying the execution condition I assume. In addition, when all the response data of a group whose priority number is the largest is the data “NG” of the accounting impossible response, the CPU 12a can not detect a payment device ID that satisfies the execution condition of payment processing.

  When the settlement device ID satisfying the execution condition of the settlement process is retrieved, the CPU 12a confirms in Act 36 whether the settlement device ID matches the settlement device ID stored in the ROM 12b. If the settlement device IDs do not match, or if the settlement device ID satisfying the execution condition of the settlement process can not be detected (NO in Act 36), the CPU 12a ends the reception interrupt process.

  On the other hand, when the settlement device ID satisfying the settlement processing execution condition matches the settlement device ID stored in the ROM 12b (YES in Act 36), the CPU 12a executes the processes of Act 37, Act 38, Act 39, Act 40 and Act 41 Do. The processing procedure from Act 37 to Act 39 is not limited to this order. The order may be reversed.

At Act 37, the CPU 12a sets the busy flag to "1".
In Act 38, the CPU 12a instructs the communication unit 12j to transmit a command notifying accounting execution to the registration device 11 which is a transmission source of data indicating a response result. In response to this instruction, the communication unit 12 j sets the registered device ID set as the transmission source of the data indicating the response result as the transmission destination, and the accounting execution notification command data with the settlement device ID stored in the ROM 12 b as the transmission source. It transmits on LAN13. The command data is received by the registration device 11 whose registration device ID as the transmission destination matches the registration device ID stored in the ROM 11 b.

  In Act 39, the CPU 12a converts the accounting data in text file format stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 12c into accounting data in file format used in the settlement process. Specifically, the CPU 12a converts text file format accounting data into DAT file format data (a data file with an extension of ".dac"). Since the accounting data is in DAT file format, the settlement apparatus 12 can start settlement.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the DAT file format is defined as the file format used in the settlement process, and the text file format is defined as the file format other than the file format used in the settlement process. The file format used in the settlement process is not limited to the DAT file format. Moreover, it goes without saying that file formats other than the file format used in the settlement process are not limited to the text file format.
Here, the CPU 12a configures determination means and processing means by the processes of Act 35 to Act 38.

In Act 40, the CPU 12a executes settlement processing based on the accounting data converted into the DAT file format. The settlement process will be described later.
At Act 41, the CPU 12a resets the busy flag F to "0". Above, CPU12a ends reception interruption processing.

  In Act 18 of FIG. 6, the CPU 11a of the registration device 11 that has transmitted the data indicating the response result confirms whether the command data of the accounting execution notification has been received as Act 19 or not. If the command data has not been received (NO in Act 19), the CPU 11a confirms whether an elapsed time from transmitting data indicating a response result as Act 20 has reached a preset timeout time. The timeout time is set to a time sufficient to receive accounting execution notification command data. In the plurality of settlement devices 12 having received the data indicating the response result, it is determined whether or not the settlement process is to be performed. Then, after this determination, the command data of the accounting execution notification is transmitted from any one of the settlement apparatuses 12 that carry out the settlement process. The timeout time is set in consideration of the time required for determining the settlement apparatus 12 to carry out the settlement process.

  If the elapsed time has not reached the timeout time (NO in Act 20), the CPU 11a checks again whether or not the command data of the accounting execution notification has been received (Act 19). Thus, as Act 19 and Act 20, the CPU 11a receives command data of an accounting execution notification or waits for the elapsed time to reach the timeout time.

  When the command data of the accounting execution notification is received (YES in Act 19), the CPU 11a searches the group table 42 as Act 21 and stores the identification name stored in association with the payment apparatus ID that is the transmission source of the command data. read out. Then, as shown in FIG. 10, the CPU 11a displays a message indicating that preparation for settlement processing is completed by the settlement apparatus 12 of this identification name in a partial area R4 of the accounting confirmation screen SC2. Here, the CPU 11a configures a notification unit by the process of Act 21.

  On the other hand, when the elapsed time has reached the timeout time (YES in Act 20), there is no settlement device 12 that performs the settlement process. In this case, as shown in FIG. 11, the CPU 11a displays a message indicating that the accounting data could not be transmitted in part of the area R5 of the accounting confirmation screen SC2, as shown in FIG. Thereafter, the CPU 11a executes a transmission disabling process.

  In the transmission disabling process, for example, the process waits for the accounting button B4 to be input again, and when it is input, the process after Act 13 is executed again. In this case, the clerk who has confirmed the message touches the accounting button B4.

  In the transmission disabling process, for example, the accounting data is attached with a unique identification code and transmitted to the server address, and the printer 11h is driven to issue an accounting ticket on which a bar code indicating the identification code is printed. In this case, the clerk who has confirmed the message gives a bill to the shopper. The shopper, for example, causes the scanner 12f of the settlement apparatus 12 prepared at a place different from the chuck out lane to read the barcode of the bill. Then, the CPU 12a of the settlement apparatus 12 acquires, from the server, the accounting data attached by the identification code obtained from the bar code. Then, the CPU 12a executes the processes of Act 37, Act 39, Act 40, and Act 41 of FIG. 7 based on the accounting data.

  Thus, the store clerk 21 registers the product purchased by the shopper 22 in the registration device 11. Then, when the registration is completed, the store clerk 21 touches the accounting button B4 on the accounting confirmation screen SC2. Then, accounting data necessary for settlement of the transaction with the shopper 22 is created in a text file format. Then, the accounting data is transmitted from the registration device 11 to the plurality of payment devices 12 grouped.

  In the settlement apparatus 12 that has received the accounting data in the text file format, it is determined whether settlement processing is possible. Then, from the settlement apparatus 12 capable of the settlement process, an accountable response is transmitted to the registration apparatus 11. An accounting impossible response is sent to the registration device 11 from the settlement device 12 which can not perform the settlement process.

  The registration device 11 updates the response data of the group table 42 based on the accountable response or the non-accountable response from the settlement device 12. Then, data indicating the response number created by the priority number, the settlement device ID and the response data of the group table 42 is transmitted from the registration device 11 to the plurality of settlement devices 12 grouped. Based on the data indicating the response result, one settlement apparatus 12 satisfying one of the settlement processing execution conditions is determined. Specifically, it is determined that the settlement device 12 having the smallest priority number among the settlement devices 12 that has transmitted the accountable response when the accounting data is received satisfies the execution condition of the settlement process.

  For example, in the example of the group table 42 shown in FIG. 4, when the settlement apparatus A is capable of settlement processing when it receives accounting data, even if other settlement apparatuses B and C are capable of settlement processing. It is the settlement apparatus A that satisfies the execution condition of the settlement process. On the other hand, when the settlement apparatus A can not perform the settlement process, if the settlement apparatus B can perform the settlement process, it is the settlement apparatus B that satisfies the execution condition of the settlement process. Further, if the settlement apparatus B is also unable to perform the settlement process, if the settlement apparatus C can perform the settlement process, it is the settlement apparatus C that satisfies the execution condition of the settlement process. If the settlement apparatus C is also unable to perform the settlement process, the settlement apparatus that satisfies the execution condition of the settlement process can not be determined. In this case, since the registration device 11 times out, the transmission disable processing is executed.

  When the settlement apparatus 12 satisfying the execution condition of the settlement process is determined, a command to notify the accounting execution to the registration apparatus 11 is transmitted from the settlement apparatus 12. By this command, in the registration device 11, together with the identification name of the settlement device 12, a message indicating that preparation for accounting is ready is displayed in a partial region R4 of the accounting confirmation screen SC2. Therefore, the clerk guides the shopper to perform accounting with the settlement device 12 identified from the identification name.

  The shopper 22 who has been instructed by the store clerk 21 to make an account with one of the settlement devices 12 moves to the location of the settlement device 12. At this time, in the settlement apparatus 12, settlement processing has started. When the settlement process starts, in the settlement apparatus 12, a payment method selection screen SC3 (see FIG. 12) is displayed on a part of the screen of the touch panel 12g.

  An example of the payment method selection screen SC3 is shown in FIG. Payment method selection screen SC3 includes display areas R11 and R12 and buttons B11 and B12. The display area R11 displays operation guidance for the shopper 22 who operates the settlement apparatus 12. The display area R12 displays the total number and the total amount stored in the total memory 32b. The button B11 is a payment method button B11 for the shopper to designate one of a plurality of payment methods. The button B12 is a store clerk call button B13 for the shopper 22 to designate calling of the store clerk 21.

  Although cash, a credit card, and electronic money are illustrated as a payment method in this embodiment, a payment method is not limited to these. Other payment methods may be added. Also, any payment method may be omitted.

  The shopper 22 who has confirmed the payment method selection screen SC3 determines the payment method of the price, and touches the payment method button B11. When the payment method button B11 is touched, the payment apparatus 12 displays a payment screen SC4 (see FIG. 13) of the payment method selected by the payment method button B11 on a part of the screen of the touch panel 12g.

  An example of the payment screen SC4 is shown in FIG. FIG. 13 is a payment screen SC4 when cash is selected as the payment method. Payment screen SC4 includes display areas R13 and R14 and a button B13. The display area R13 displays operation guidance for the shopper 22 who operates the settlement apparatus 12. Display area R14 displays the total amount, the input amount, and the remaining amount. A button B13 is a settlement button B13 for a shopper who has finished inserting cash to specify execution of settlement.

  The shopper who has selected cash as the payment method inserts cash into the automatic change machine 12e. And if cash more than the total amount is inserted, the settlement button B13 is touched. When the settlement button B13 is touched, the settlement apparatus 12 executes a settlement process by the selected payment method. Since such payment processing is well known, detailed description is omitted.

  When the settlement process is completed, the settlement apparatus 12 displays a completion screen SC5 (see FIG. 14) on part of the screen of the touch panel 12g.

  An example of the completion screen SC5 for cash payment is shown in FIG. The completion screen SC5 includes display areas R15, R16, and R17. The display area R15 displays operation guidance for the shopper 22 who operates the settlement apparatus 12. Display area R16 displays a guidance image. The guidance image is an image for guiding the shopper 22 of the issue opening of the receipt and the payout opening of the change. Therefore, the shopper can easily know from the guide image the place where the receipt is issued and the place where the change is paid out. Display area R16 displays the amount of change. Therefore, the shopper can know the amount of change from the data of the display area R16.

  The shopper who confirms the completion screen SC8 receives a receipt and a change in accordance with the guide image. In response to this, in the settlement apparatus 12, the busy flag F is reset to "0", and an accounting standby state is established.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the registration device 11 may transmit the accounting data to the plurality of grouped payment devices 12 regardless of the state of each payment device 12. Therefore, the information analysis function for the registration device 11 to monitor the state of each settlement device 12 becomes unnecessary.

Second Embodiment
Next, a second embodiment will be described.
Note that FIGS. 1 to 5 and 8 to 14 used in the first embodiment are applied as they are to the second embodiment and will not be described except for differences from the first embodiment.

  One of the points in which the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment is to form a priority number memory in the auxiliary storage unit 12 d of each settlement device 12. The priority number assigned to the settlement device 12 is stored in the priority number memory. For example, taking the group table 42 shown in FIG. 4 as an example, a priority number "1" is stored in the priority number memory of the payment apparatus A, and a priority number "2" is stored in the priority number memory of the payment apparatus B. A priority number "3" is stored in the priority number memory of the settlement apparatus C.

  Another difference of the second embodiment from the first embodiment is that the accounting button B4 is touched while the CPU 11a of the registration device is in the standby state of Act 10 and Act 11, and accounting data of the text file format as Act 13 Is a procedure of information processing after collectively transmitting to a plurality of grouped payment devices 12. The processing procedure from Act 1 to Act 13 is the same as that of the first embodiment. Further, part of the reception interrupt process executed by the CPU 12a of the settlement apparatus 12 that has received the accounting data is also different from that of the first embodiment. Hereinafter, points different from the first embodiment will be described using FIGS. 15 and 16.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing main procedures of information processing executed after the accounting button B4 is touched in the second embodiment. That is, after instructing the communication unit 11 j to transmit the accounting data as Act 3, the CPU 11 a omits the processes of Act 14 to Act 18. That is, the CPU 11a waits for the command data of the accounting execution notice to be received from any one of the settlement apparatuses 12 as Act 19 or for the elapsed time from transmitting the accounting data as Act 20 to reach a preset timeout time. When the command data of the accounting execution notification is received, the CPU 11a executes the process of Act 21 as in the first embodiment. Also in the case where the elapsed time since the transmission of the accounting data has reached the timeout time, the CPU 11a executes the process of Act 22 as in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 16 is a flow chart showing a main procedure of reception interrupt processing executed by the CPU 12a of the settlement apparatus 12 which receives accounting data according to the control program in the second embodiment. The parts common to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  That is, when the reception interrupt process is started, the CPU 12a checks the busy flag F as Act 31. Here, if the busy flag F is set (NO in Act 31), that is, if the settlement apparatus 12 can not execute the settlement process of a new transaction, the CPU 12a ends the reception interrupt process. Do.

  On the other hand, when busy flag F is reset (YES in Act 31), that is, when payment apparatus 12 is ready to execute payment processing of a new transaction, CPU 12a sets Act 51 as a priority number memory. Read out the priority number stored in. Then, the CPU 12a instructs the communication unit 12j to transmit, to the other settlement apparatus 12, an accountable response notifying that settlement processing is possible together with the priority number.

In response to this command, the communication unit 12j sets the settlement device ID not matching the settlement device ID stored in the ROM 12b among the settlement device IDs set as the transmission destination of the accounting data as the transmission destination, and stores it in the ROM 12b. The command data of the accountable response having the settlement device ID as the transmission source is transmitted on the LAN 13. The command data also includes the priority number stored in the priority number memory. The command data is received by the settlement apparatus 12 whose settlement apparatus ID as the transmission destination matches the settlement apparatus ID stored in the ROM 12 b.
Here, the CPU 12a cooperates with the communication unit 12j to constitute a third transmission means.

  As Act 52, the CPU 12a of the settlement apparatus 12 that has transmitted the accountable response confirms whether or not the accountable response from the other settlement apparatus 12 has been received. If an accounting enablement response has not been received (NO in Act 52), the CPU 12a confirms in Act 53 whether the elapsed time from reception of the accounting data has reached a preset timeout period. The timeout time is set to a time sufficient for the settlement apparatus 12 that has received the accounting data to transmit an accounting enabled response to the other settlement apparatus 12. From a plurality of settlement devices 12 which have received accounting data, command data of an accounting enablement response may be transmitted substantially simultaneously. Therefore, the timeout time is set in consideration of data collisions.

  If the elapsed time has not reached the timeout time (NO in Act 53), the CPU 11a checks again whether command data has been received (Act 52). Thus, as Act 52 and Act 53, the CPU 11a receives command data of an accounting enabled response or waits for the elapsed time to reach the timeout time.

  If the command data of the accountable response is received (YES in Act 52), the CPU 12a compares the priority number included in the command data with the priority number stored in the priority number memory as Act 54. As a result, when the priority number included in the command data is larger than the priority number stored in the priority number memory (NO in Act 54), the settlement device 12 of the command data transmission source has a priority higher than itself. Low. In this case, the CPU 12a returns to Act 52, and again receives command data of an accounting enabled response or waits for an elapsed time to reach a timeout time.

  On the other hand, when the priority number included in the command data is smaller than the priority number stored in the priority number memory (NO in Act 54), the settlement device 12 of the command data transmission source is more than itself. High priority. In this case, the CPU 12a ends the reception interrupt process.

  If the elapsed time reaches the timeout time (YES at Act 53) without receiving command data of an accountable response including a priority number smaller than the priority number stored in the priority number memory, the CPU 12a generates The processes of Act 37 to Act 41 described in the embodiment are executed.

  As described above, also in the second embodiment, from the registration device 11, accounting data is simultaneously transmitted to the plurality of grouped payment devices 12. On the other hand, in each settlement device 12 that has received the accounting data, it is determined whether settlement processing is possible. Then, from the settlement apparatus 12 capable of the settlement process, command data of the accountable response is transmitted to the other settlement apparatus 12. The command data includes the priority number stored in the priority number memory of the settlement apparatus 12. On the other hand, no command data is transmitted from the settlement apparatus 12 which can not perform settlement processing.

  Therefore, when there is only one settlement device 12 capable of settlement processing, the settlement device 12 times out in Act 53, and therefore, it is determined that one settlement device 12 satisfies the execution condition of the settlement processing.

  In addition, when there are two or more payment devices 12 that can perform payment processing, one of the payment devices 12 with the smallest priority number stored in the priority number memory satisfies the execution condition of the payment processing. It is determined as

  From the settlement apparatus 12 satisfying the execution condition of the settlement process, a command for notifying the registration apparatus 11 of accounting execution is transmitted. By this command, in the registration device 11, together with the identification name of the settlement device 12, a message indicating that preparation for accounting is ready is displayed in a partial region R4 of the accounting confirmation screen SC2. Therefore, the clerk guides the shopper to perform accounting with the settlement device 12 identified from the identification name. The shopper 22 who has been instructed by the store clerk 21 to perform accounting with one of the settlement devices 12 moves to the location of the settlement device 12 and makes a settlement.

  Therefore, also in the second embodiment, the registration device 11 can dispense with the information analysis function for monitoring the state of each settlement device 12.

The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment.
For example, in the above embodiment, the settlement devices 12 disposed in the same checkout lane are grouped with respect to the registration device 11, but grouping is also performed including the settlement devices 12 disposed in other checkout lanes. It is also good.

  When a plurality of payment devices 12 are collectively arranged at a position different from the checkout lane, for example, the plurality of payment devices 12 located within a predetermined distance from the registration device 11 may be grouped.

  Further, it is needless to say that the screens SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4, and SC5 illustrated and described in the above embodiment are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to the illustrated layout.

In addition, although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and the gist of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof.
In the following, the invention described in the original claims of the present application is appended.
[1] A checkout formed by connecting a registration device for generating accounting data necessary for settlement of the transaction for each transaction and a plurality of settlement devices for processing settlement of the transaction based on the accounting data by a network In the system, whether the registration device can process the settlement from the two or more settlement devices that have transmitted the accounting data and a first transmission unit that transmits the accounting data to at least two or more of the settlement devices. A second response means for waiting for a response indicating whether the response is not received and transmitting data indicating the response result to the two or more payment devices, and the payment from the two or more payment devices transmitting the data indicating the response result A notification means for waiting for a notification indicating that the processing is to be performed, and notifying the payment device that has received the notification from any one of the payment devices, And a response unit for returning to the registration device a response as to whether or not the settlement process is possible in response to receiving the accounting data from the registration device, and data indicating the response result from the registration device Determining means for determining whether or not to execute the settlement process based on the data in response to receiving the information, and when it is determined to execute the settlement process, the registration device And a processing means for notifying the user of the settlement and enabling the settlement to be started.
[2] The first transmission unit transmits the accounting data to the two or more settlement devices in a file format other than the file format used in the settlement process, and the processing unit is a file used in the settlement process The settlement can be started by converting the accounting data sent from the registration device in a file format other than a format into a file format used in the settlement process [1]. Checkout system described.
[3] Generating means for generating accounting data necessary for settlement of the transaction for each transaction, and transmitting the accounting data to at least two or more settlement devices for processing settlement of the transaction based on the accounting data Waiting for a response indicating whether or not processing of the settlement is possible from the two or more settlement devices that have transmitted the accounting data, and transmitting data indicating the result of the response to the two or more settlement devices Waiting for a notification indicating that the processing of the settlement is to be performed from the two or more settlement devices that transmitted the data indicating the response result, and when the notification is received from any one of the settlement devices A registration device comprising: notification means for notifying the payment device that has received a notification.
[4] The receiving means for receiving the accounting data via the network from the registration device for generating the accounting data necessary for settlement of the transaction for each transaction, and the settlement according to the reception of the accounting data Whether or not to execute the settlement process based on the response means for returning a response indicating whether the process is possible to the registration device and the data indicating the response result from the registration device. And determining means for determining the settlement, and processing means for notifying the registration device of the fact that execution of the settlement process is decided to start the settlement. Payment device.
[5] In response to reception of the accounting data from a registration device that generates accounting data necessary for settling the transaction for each transaction to a computer provided with reception means for receiving the accounting data via the network A function of causing the registration device to return a response indicating whether or not the processing of the settlement is possible, and in response to reception of data indicating a result of the response from the registration device, the processing of the settlement is performed based on the data Control program for realizing the function of determining whether or not to execute the processing of the settlement, and notifying the registration device of that effect to start the settlement. .

  11 Registration device 12 Settlement device 11a 12a CPU 11b 12b ROM 11c 12c RAM 11d 12d Auxiliary storage unit 11e Drawer opening unit 12e Automatic change machine 11f 12f: Scanner, 11g1, 11g2, 12g: Touch panel, 11h, 12h: Printer, 11i, 12i: Card reader / writer, 11j, 12j: Communication unit, 11k, 12k: Transmission system, 13: LAN, 31 (31a, 31b) ... Transaction memory, 32 (32a, 32b) ... Total memory, 41 ... Temporary buffer, 42 ... Group table.

Problems which an embodiment of the present invention is to solve is to registration device is to provide a registration apparatus and a control program Ru can be eliminated the information analysis function to monitor the status of each payment device.

In one embodiment, the registration device performs a registration process of a product, and configures a checkout system with a plurality of settlement devices that execute a settlement process of the product registered by the registration process. And a registration apparatus is provided with a reception means and an alerting | reporting means. The accepting means accepts a transition from the registration process to the settlement process in the settlement apparatus. The notification means notifies , based on the information received from the settlement device , the settlement device that performs the settlement process from among the plurality of settlement devices after accepting the shift by the reception means .

Claims (5)

A checkout system in which a registration device for generating accounting data necessary for settlement of a transaction for each transaction and a plurality of settlement devices for processing settlement of the transaction based on the accounting data are connected by a network,
The registration device
A storage unit that waits for a response indicating whether or not processing of the settlement from at least two of the settlement devices is possible with respect to the generated accounting data, and stores data indicating the response result together with the priority for each of the settlement devices When,
Transmission means for transmitting the data stored by the storage means to the two or more settlement devices;
Waiting for notification of execution of the processing of the settlement from the two or more settlement devices to which the data stored in the storage means has been transmitted, and receiving the notification from any one of the settlement devices Providing notification means for notifying the payment device;
The payment device
Response means for transmitting to the registration device a response as to whether or not the settlement process is possible;
In response to receipt of the data stored in the storage means from the registration device, whether or not the highest-ranked payment device that has made a response from the data that processing of the payment is possible is its own device Determining means for determining
When the highest priority payment apparatus that has made a response that processing of the payment is possible is the own apparatus, the registration apparatus is notified that processing of the payment is to be performed and the payment can be started A checkout system comprising processing means.   The checkout system according to claim 1, wherein the priority is higher for the payment device having a shorter distance to the registration device. Generating means for generating accounting data required to settle the transaction for each transaction;
Storage means for waiting for a response indicating whether or not processing of the settlement is possible from at least two settlement devices with respect to the generated accounting data, and storing data indicating the result of the response together with the priority for each of the settlement devices; ,
Transmission means for transmitting the data stored by the storage means to the two or more settlement devices;
Waiting for notification of execution of the processing of the settlement from the two or more settlement devices to which the data stored in the storage means has been transmitted, and receiving the notification from any one of the settlement devices And a notification unit for notifying a payment apparatus. A response indicating whether settlement processing from at least two or more settlement devices is possible is waited for generated accounting data, data indicating the response result is stored together with priority for each of the settlement devices, and the stored data Connected via a network with a registration device that sends the two or more payment devices,
Response means for transmitting to the registration device a response as to whether or not the settlement process is possible;
In response to reception of the stored data from the registration device, it is determined whether or not the highest-ranked payment device that has made a response from the data that processing of the payment is possible is the own device. Means,
When the highest priority payment apparatus that has made a response that processing of the payment is possible is the own apparatus, the registration apparatus is notified that processing of the payment is to be performed and the payment can be started And processing means for processing. A response indicating whether settlement processing from at least two or more settlement devices is possible is waited for generated accounting data, data indicating the response result is stored together with priority for each of the settlement devices, and the stored data To a registration device that transmits the two or more payment devices, and a computer of the payment device connected via a network,
A function of sending a response to the registration device indicating whether or not the payment can be processed;
A function of determining whether or not the highest-ranked payment apparatus is the own apparatus in response to reception of the stored data from the registration apparatus in response to the possibility of processing of the payment from the data ,
When the highest priority payment apparatus that has made a response that processing of the payment is possible is the own apparatus, the registration apparatus is notified that processing of the payment is to be performed and the payment can be started Control program to realize the function.