JP2022099708A - Commodity sales data processing system, clerk device, customer device, notification method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To assist a clerk who supports a customer appropriately.SOLUTION: A commodity sales data processing system includes a customer device and a clerk device. In the customer device, at least one of the registration of a commodity and the adjustment of the commodity is performed by a customer. The clerk device is operated by a clerk. The clerk device can receive an input for performing notification about an error in the customer device from the clerk. The customer device makes notification when the clerk device accepts the input.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

The present invention relates to a product sales data processing system, a store clerk device, a customer device, a notification method, and a program.

Conventionally, in stores such as supermarkets, POS (Point Of Sales) registers, in which customers perform self-payment without going through a clerk, have become widespread. In such a POS register, since the customer operates the POS register, the customer may be fraudulent or the customer may not be able to operate the POS register properly. Therefore, there is known a self-checkout system in which an attendant terminal displays an operating status of a self-checkout terminal and an error occurrence status (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2007-95026

However, even if there are suspicious customers or customers who are confused about the operation at the self-registration, if there is no error in the self-registration, there is no opportunity for the clerk to talk to the customer, so talk to the customer. You may hesitate. For this reason, there is a problem that a new clerk or a shy clerk may not be able to provide appropriate support to the customer.

The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of assisting a clerk to provide appropriate support to a customer.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the product sales data processing system according to one aspect of the present invention is operated by a customer device in which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by the customer, and a store clerk. In the product sales data processing system including the store clerk device, the store clerk device can receive an input from the store clerk for notifying an error in the customer device, and the customer device is the customer device. It is a product sales data processing system characterized in that when the store clerk device receives the input, the notification is performed.

It is a network block diagram of the POS (Point Of Sales) system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the installation example of a POS terminal apparatus 20. It is a block diagram which shows the hardware composition of a POS terminal apparatus 20. It is a block diagram which shows the hardware composition of a monitoring apparatus 11. It is a schematic diagram explaining the outline of the operation in a full self specification. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the processing of the error notification and the voice notification in the full self specification. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the monitoring screen 700 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the notification screen 800 for calling which is displayed on the POS terminal apparatus 20-3 of a full self mode. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the journal screen 900 displayed on the display part 305 of a monitoring apparatus 11. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the detail screen 1000 displayed on the display part 305 of a monitoring apparatus 11. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the image pickup screen 1100 displayed on the display part 305 of a monitoring apparatus 11. It is a schematic diagram explaining the outline of the operation in a semi-self specification. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the processing of the error notification and the voice notification in the semi-self specification. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the screen displayed on the store clerk side display part 210 of the registered POS terminal apparatus 20a in the semi-self specification. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the urgency table 1500 regarding error notification. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the processing of the error notification and the voice notification according to the modification 1. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the error confirmation screen 1700 displayed on the display part 305 of a monitoring apparatus 11. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the notification screen 1800 for a voice call of the modification 1 displayed in a self-registration. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the error selection screen 1900 displayed on the display part 305 of a monitoring apparatus 11. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the monitoring screen 2000 when an error occurs which is displayed on the display part 305 of a monitoring apparatus 11. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the screen in the modification 3. FIG.

(Embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a network configuration diagram of a POS (Point Of Sales) system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The POS system 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes a plurality of POS terminal devices 20-1, POS terminal devices 20-2, POS terminal devices 20-n (n ≧ 2), and a store controller (store computer, management device) 10. , The monitoring device 11 is provided. Hereinafter, when the POS terminal devices 20-1, 20-2, and 20-n are not particularly distinguished, they are collectively referred to as the POS terminal device 20. The store controller 10, the monitoring device 11, and the POS terminal device 20 are communicably connected via the LAN 55. In the present embodiment, the number "n" of the POS terminal devices 20 is "3", but the number is not limited to this, and may be, for example, "1".

The POS system 1 can be introduced in various stores such as supermarkets, home centers, convenience stores, and various supply stores. The store controller 10 stores various information necessary for transactions such as a product master. The product master is a file that stores product information such as product identification information (for example, JAN (Japanese Article Number) code), product name, and selling price of each product. In addition, the product master includes product identification information, product name, unit price of the product to be weighed, and the like of the product (product to be weighed) that needs to be weighed. In addition to the product master, the store controller 10 stores various information such as inventory status, sales history, and deposit / withdrawal records. Further, the store controller 10 may store the member information of the customer.

The monitoring device 11 is a device for the store clerk to monitor the POS terminal device 20. Specifically, the monitoring device 11 can display the status (operation mode, processing status, etc.) of the POS terminal device 20 and control the POS terminal device 20. In the POS system 1, one store clerk can be assigned to the monitoring device 11 and the store clerk can monitor the POS terminal device 20.

The POS terminal device 20 is a register for registering and paying for goods. The POS terminal device 20 can receive an operation related to settlement from a customer and perform settlement processing. The registration of the product may be performed by the clerk or by the customer.

The POS system 1 may be provided with a clerk terminal owned by the clerk. The clerk terminal can display the status (operation mode, processing status, etc.) of the POS terminal device 20 and control the POS terminal device 20. Further, the clerk terminal can also receive the notification information to call the clerk from the POS terminal device 20 and display that fact.

(Installation example of POS terminal device 20)
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an installation example of the POS terminal device 20. FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the POS terminal device 20 as viewed from the customer side. FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the POS terminal device 20 as viewed from the store clerk side. As shown in FIG. 2A, a counter is placed on the right side of the POS terminal device 20 when viewed from the customer side. Although omitted in the drawing, a counter is also placed on the left side of the POS terminal device 20 in FIG. 2A. That is, the counters are placed on both sides of the POS terminal device 20. The counter can carry a shopping cart.

Further, the POS terminal device 20 includes a barber's pole 220. The barber's pole 220 includes a light emitting unit. The light emitting unit of the barber's pole 220 is, for example, a lamp or an LED (light emitting diode), and can be lit in a predetermined color or in a predetermined lighting mode. Depending on the lighting mode of the barber's pole 220, the POS terminal device 20 may be in use or a warning may be indicated. The sign pole 220 is provided facing upward, and it is possible for a clerk who is not near the POS terminal device 20 to recognize the lighting mode.

(Configuration example of POS terminal device 20)
Next, the configuration of the POS terminal device 20 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the POS terminal device 20. In FIGS. 2 and 3, the same parts are designated by the same reference numerals.

Hereinafter, a configuration example of the POS terminal device 20 shown in FIG. 3 will be described with reference to FIG. 2. The POS terminal device 20 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 202, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 203, a hard disk 204, a customer side display unit 205, and a customer side scanner unit 206. , Card payment unit 208, change machine 209, store clerk side display unit 210, key operation unit 211, store clerk side scanner unit 212, printing unit 213, audio output unit 214, communication unit 215, camera 216. And. These can communicate with each other via the bus.

The CPU 201 is a central processing unit, and controls the operation of the POS terminal device 20 by reading and executing various programs stored in the ROM 202. The various programs include a product sales data processing program according to the present embodiment.
The ROM 202 is a read-only memory, and stores various information used by the CPU 201 including a program.

The RAM 203 is a memory that can be read and written, and stores various information. For example, the RAM 203 stores information acquired from the outside (for example, a product master acquired from the store controller 10) and information generated in the process. This information includes, for example, registration information (registration data) generated in the registration process for registering products, settlement information generated in the settlement process for settlement (settlement) of registered products (purchased products), and the like.

The hard disk 204 stores various information. For example, the hard disk 204 stores an image pickup result (for example, a moving image) imaged by the camera 216. The hard disk 204 may store various programs such as a product sales data processing program executed by the CPU 201, instead of the ROM 202, for example. Further, instead of the RAM 203, information acquired from the outside or information generated in the process may be stored.

The customer side display unit 205 is a touch display for the customer. The customer side display unit 205 displays various information to the customer and accepts various inputs from the customer.
The customer-side scanner unit 206 is a customer-use scanner unit that optically reads various types of information. For example, the customer-side scanner unit 206 optically scans a barcode (product code, etc.) attached to the product or a code (bar code, two-dimensional code, etc.) printed on the accounting ticket (registered trademark). read. In addition to the above, the customer-side scanner unit 206 has a code (bar code, 2) printed on gift certificates (gift certificates, coupons, complimentary tickets) and various cards (for example, membership cards, point cards, etc.). Dimension code etc.) may be read. The registration of the product is not limited to the registration by reading the code by the scanner unit 206 on the customer side. For example, it is possible to display a preset key (button for ordering a product) corresponding to a product on the customer side display unit 205, and register the product by operating (pressing) the preset key by the customer. be.

The card payment unit 208 is a payment mechanism using various cards (credit card, prepaid card such as transportation card, point card, etc.). The card settlement unit 208 includes a card recognition unit (reading unit), a display unit, and an operation unit. The card recognition unit magnetically or electrically reads information on various cards. The read information is used to settle the purchased product. The card recognition unit can also recognize the information used in the settlement of the purchased product, for example, when using the points held by the point card. Further, the card recognition unit can also recognize information that is not used for the settlement of the purchased product this time, for example, when giving points to the point card.

The card payment unit 208 of the present embodiment includes a card recognition unit, a display unit, and an operation unit, but is not limited to this, and may be at least provided with a card recognition unit. Further, the card recognition unit of the present embodiment may be compatible with a contact type card (IC card, magnetic card) or may be compatible with a non-contact type card (IC card). good.

The change machine 209 (cash settlement unit) is a cash settlement mechanism, and has a bill / coin slot and a bill / coin discharge port. The change machine 209 calculates the amount of money to be put into the slot, calculates the amount of change which is the difference between the amount of money to be put in and the amount of purchase, and discharges the change from the slot. The change machine 209 is aimed at the customer side, and accepts various operations and cash input from the customer. The change machine 209 has a sensor that detects banknotes and coins inserted into the slot. The sensor detects that bills or coins have been inserted into the slot, detects the number of coins by denomination, and the like.

The clerk side display unit 210 is a touch display for the clerk. The store clerk side display unit 210 displays various information to the store clerk and accepts various inputs from the store clerk. A preset key (button for ordering a product) corresponding to the product is displayed on the display unit 210 on the clerk side, and the product is registered by the operation (pressing) of the preset key by the clerk.

The key operation unit 211 is composed of various keys (hardware keys, buttons). The key operation unit 211 receives various inputs from the clerk. Specifically, the key operation unit 211 includes a mode switching button, a batch switching button, and an accounting-dedicated mode switching button. The mode switching button is a button for switching the operation mode. Further, the batch switching button is operated on a specific POS terminal device 20 (for example, the POS terminal device 20 to which the store manager or the like is logged in) to collectively switch the operation mode of each POS terminal device 20. Button. The accounting-only mode switching button is a button for switching to the "accounting-only mode" described later.

The mode switching button is a button that can switch the mode of the migration destination in a predetermined order each time the button is pressed. This order is preset, for example, as follows: normal mode-> full self-mode-> accounting-only mode-> normal mode->. Therefore, in order to switch from the normal mode to the accounting-only mode, the clerk needs to press the mode switching button twice.

The button for switching the mode is not limited to a hard key (mechanical key) such as a mode switching button, but may be a selection button (soft key) displayed on the clerk side display unit 210. This selection button may be, for example, one in which a plurality of buttons corresponding to the destination mode are displayed. Specifically, if the current mode is the normal mode, a button for shifting to the accounting-only mode and a button for shifting to the full self mode may be displayed. This makes it possible to switch modes with a single touch. That is, it is not necessary for the clerk to press the button a plurality of times, and it is sufficient to press the button of the mode to be transferred. However, the selection button displayed on the clerk side display unit 210 may be a single button as in the case of the mode switching button, and may be a button capable of switching to the transition destination mode in a predetermined order each time the button is pressed. ..

Further, the button for switching the mode is displayed on the clerk side display unit 210 in principle, but the button is not limited to this and may be displayed on the customer side display unit 205. For example, if it can be clearly determined that the clerk is on the customer side, it is possible to display the button on the customer side display unit 205. The situation where the clerk is clearly on the customer side means that the customer side scanner unit 206 is used to transition to the clerk-dedicated maintenance screen, or the customer side display unit 205 is operated to switch to the clerk-dedicated maintenance screen. There are cases and so on.

The clerk-side scanner unit 212 is a clerk-side scanner unit that optically reads various types of information. For example, the clerk-side scanner unit 212 optically reads the bar code attached to the product or the clerk code attached to the clerk's name tag. In addition to the above, the clerk-side scanner unit 212 may read the code printed on the checkout ticket, the gift certificate, and the code printed on various cards.

The registration of the product is not limited to the registration by reading the code by the scanner unit 212 on the clerk side. For example, a key corresponding to a product (for example, XX newspaper) may be arranged in the key operation unit 211, and the product may be registered by being operated (pressed) by a clerk. ..

The printing unit 213 prints and outputs various media (receipts, checkout tickets, etc.). The printing unit 213 can change the direction of the media issuing port. Specifically, the printing unit 213 has a rotatable mechanism, and is configured so that the medium issuing port faces from the clerk side to the customer side and from the customer side to the clerk side. The orientation of the media issuing port may be manually changeable or may be automatically changed according to the switching of the operation mode. The printing unit 213 may be provided with a sensor for detecting the correctness of the orientation of the printing issuing port.

The audio output unit 214 outputs audio. For example, the voice output unit 214 outputs voice guidance, a warning sound, and the like. Voice guidance and horns are related to product registration and settlement.
The communication unit 215 is an interface for transmitting / receiving information to / from other devices (store controller 10, monitoring device 11, and other POS terminal device 20).

The camera 216 is attached to the upper right of the customer side display unit 205 when viewed from the customer side. The camera 216 is a camera that continuously captures moving images or still images. A CCD (charge coupled device) camera or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) camera can be used as the camera 216. The camera 216 captures the operation status of the customer at the time of payment. Specifically, the camera 216 captures the banknotes and coins possessed by the customer, the change machine 209, the movement of the hand, and the like. Further, the camera 216 captures the operation status of the customer at the time of product registration. Specifically, the camera 216 can also capture the inside (product) of the shopping cart on the counters provided on both sides of the POS terminal device 20 and the operation status of the customer at the time of registration.

(Overview of each operation mode)
Subsequently, the operation mode of the POS terminal device 20 will be described. The POS terminal device 20 has a plurality of operation modes. The plurality of operation modes are operation modes during normal business (operation modes related to registration processing and settlement processing), and include a normal mode, an accounting-only mode, and a full self mode. The POS terminal device 20 is controlled to one of a plurality of operation modes.

In addition to the above modes, the operation mode includes an aggregation mode, a maintenance mode, a training mode, and the like. The aggregation mode is a mode for totaling, inquiring, etc., such as sales and sales. The maintenance mode is a mode in which a store clerk, a maintenance clerk, or the like performs setting work or maintenance work. The training mode is a mode for a new clerk to perform training.

In the following, each mode of the normal mode, the accounting-only mode, and the full self mode will be mainly described in detail. In the following, the POS terminal device 20 operating in the accounting-only mode and the POS terminal device 20 operating in the full self-mode may be collectively referred to as "self-registration".

(Normal mode)
The normal mode is an operation mode in which the product registration on the clerk side (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "product registration") is enabled and the product registration on the customer side is invalidated. That is, the normal mode is an operation mode in which the registration process on the clerk side is executed without executing the registration process on the customer side. In the product registration on the clerk side, the purchased product is registered using the scanner unit 212 on the clerk side, the display unit 210 on the clerk side, and the key operation unit 211.

In the normal mode, the customer can insert money (banknotes and coins), read various cards, and make other payments. Specifically, in the normal mode, for example, it is possible to accept a cash settlement operation (insertion of money into the change machine 209).

Further, in the normal mode, the registration information can be transmitted to the other POS terminal device 20. The transmission of the registration information to the other POS terminal device 20 is to transmit the registration information generated in the registration process to another POS terminal device 20 (self-registration) capable of executing the settlement process. The registration information may be transmitted directly from the POS terminal device 20 to the other POS terminal device 20, or indirectly via another device such as the store controller 10 or the monitoring device 11. It may be transmitted to the terminal device 20. In the following description, the transmission / reception of information between each device will not be described in detail, but may be direct transmission / reception between each device or indirect transmission / reception via another device.

Also, in the normal mode, it is possible to issue a checkout ticket. Issuing a bill is to encode the registration information generated in the registration process, print it on a print medium (sheet), and output it. The other POS terminal device 20 (self-registration) can acquire registration information and perform settlement processing by reading the code of the checkout ticket.

(Accounting-only mode)
The accounting-only mode is an operation mode in which reception of registration information from another POS terminal device 20, reading of accounting tickets, and insertion of money are enabled, and product registration on the clerk side and the customer side is invalidated. Receiving the registration information from the other POS terminal device 20 is specifically a function of receiving the registration information generated in the registration process of the POS terminal device 20 in the normal mode.

Reading a checkout is to read the code printed on the checkout. The accounting-only mode is an operation mode in which the registration process is not executed in the own terminal, but the settlement process is executed exclusively using the registration information generated in the other POS terminal device 20. Since the accounting-only mode is an operation mode in which the registration process is not executed, that is, the registration information is not generated, the transmission of the registration information to the other POS terminal device 20 and the issuance of the accounting ticket are invalidated. The operating mode is.

(Full self mode)
The full self mode is an operation mode in which product registration on the customer side is enabled. That is, the full self mode is an operation mode premised on the registration process on the customer side. In the customer-side product registration, the purchased product is registered by the customer's operation using the customer-side scanner unit 206 and the customer-side display unit 205.

In the full self mode, it is possible to enable product registration on the clerk side. That is, the full self mode is an operation mode that allows the registration process on the clerk side while premising the registration process on the customer side. In the full self mode, the product registration on the clerk side may be invalidated.

Further, the full self mode is an operation mode in which the settlement process can be performed on the own terminal. Specifically, the full self-mode is an operation mode in which the input of money is enabled and the transmission of registration information to the other POS terminal device 20 and the issuance of a checkout ticket are invalidated.

Further, the full self mode is an operation mode in which both the reception of registration information from the other POS terminal device 20 and the reading of the accounting ticket are valid, as in the accounting-only mode. That is, as in the accounting-only mode, in the full self-mode, the settlement process can be executed using the registration information generated in the other POS terminal device 20.

(About enabling and disabling various functions)
In the above description, the POS terminal device 20 has various functions included in the POS terminal device 20 (product registration on the clerk side, product registration on the customer side, money insertion, reading of accounting tickets, etc., depending on the operation mode. ) Was explained to be valid or invalid. In other words, in the above description, it has been described that the POS terminal device 20 sets the operation mode according to enabling or disabling a part of all the functions included in the POS terminal device 20. ..

However, the POS terminal device 20 may have different functions that can be executed for each operation mode, and may not necessarily have all the functions. For example, the POS terminal device 20 can acquire and execute a program for realizing a function required for each operation mode from an external device (for example, a store controller 10, a monitoring device 11, a server outside the store, etc.). In addition to the state, when a program for realizing an unnecessary function is held for each operation mode, the program may be in an unexecutable state (for example, erasing). In this case, the POS terminal device 20 externally provides a program for realizing the function required in the operation mode after making all the programs in an unexecutable state regardless of the operation mode of the migration destination. It may be obtained from and made executable.

(Configuration example of monitoring device 11)
Next, the configuration of the monitoring device 11 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the monitoring device 11. As shown in FIG. 4, the monitoring device 11 includes a CPU 301, a ROM 302, a RAM 303, a hard disk 304, a display unit 305, an audio output unit 306, and a communication unit 307. These can communicate with each other via the bus.

The CPU 301 is a central processing unit, and controls the operation of the monitoring device 11 by reading and executing various programs stored in the ROM 302. The various programs include a product sales data processing program according to the present embodiment.
The ROM 302 is a read-only memory, and stores various information used by the CPU 301 including a program.

The RAM 303 is a memory that can be read and written, and stores various information. For example, the RAM 303 displays information acquired from the outside (for example, registration information and settlement information acquired from the POS terminal device 20) and information generated in the process.

The hard disk 304 stores various information. For example, the hard disk 304 stores registration information and settlement information acquired from the POS terminal device 20. The hard disk 304 may store various programs such as a product sales data processing program executed by the CPU 301 instead of the ROM 302, for example. Further, instead of the RAM 303, information acquired from the outside or information generated in the process may be stored.

The display unit 305 is a touch display. The display unit 305 displays various information to the clerk and accepts various inputs from the clerk.
The audio output unit 306 outputs audio.
The communication unit 307 is an interface for transmitting / receiving information to / from other devices (store controller 10 and POS terminal device 20).

(About customer support by the clerk)
Here, in the self-checkout (full self-mode or self-payment mode), the clerk provides support to the customer (hereinafter referred to as "customer support"). Specifically, the customer support is, for example, that the store clerk supports the operation related to the product registration and the settlement performed by the customer. In addition, customer support includes an operation performed by a clerk to resolve various errors in the POS terminal device 20 when various errors occur. Various errors include, for example, an error of running out of paper on a receipt, a change near full number that is close to the number of sheets that can be stored in a predetermined storage unit of the change machine 209 (the number of sheets that can be accommodated), and a number of sheets that have a small amount of money in the storage unit. It is a change near end and so on.

Here, even if there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation in the self-checkout, if there is no error in the POS terminal device 20 operated by the customer, there is no opportunity for the clerk to talk to the customer. For this reason, the clerk may hesitate to speak to the customer. In particular, new salesclerks and shy salesclerks may not be able to provide appropriate support to customers.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, when there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused by the operation, the store clerk creates an opportunity to talk to the customer. Hereinafter, the functional configuration of the POS system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

(Functional configuration in full self-specification of POS system 1)
First, the functional configuration of the POS system 1 in the full self specification will be described. In the present embodiment, the POS system 1 may take any one of a plurality of specifications including a full self specification and a semi-self specification described later.

The full self specification is a specification in which the POS terminal device 20 operates in the full self mode, and the monitoring device 11 monitors the customer's operation by the store clerk. The POS system 1 includes a customer device and a clerk device. The customer device is realized by the POS terminal device 20 in full self-mode.

In the customer device, at least one of the registration of the product and the settlement of the product is performed by the customer. The customer device includes a mode control unit and a notification unit. The mode control unit operates in at least one of a plurality of operation modes including an operation mode in which the payment of the product is performed by the customer. In the full self specification, the mode control unit controls the POS terminal device 20 to the full self mode. In the semi-self specification described later, the mode control unit controls the POS terminal device 20 to the accounting-only mode.

The clerk device is operated by the clerk. The clerk device is realized by the monitoring device 11. The clerk device is provided with a reception section. The reception unit can receive an input from the store clerk for performing notification regarding an error (hereinafter referred to as "calling notification") in the POS terminal device 20 in the full self mode. Specifically, the reception unit displays the voice-calling notification button 710a (see FIG. 7) for accepting the input, and accepts the pressing of the voice-calling notification button 710a. For example, when there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation, the clerk presses the voice notification button 710a. When the voice-calling notification button 710a is pressed, the monitoring device 11 transmits a notification instruction for performing the voice-calling notification to the POS terminal device 20.

Here, the notification unit of the customer device performs error notification when an error occurs. In the error notification, for example, the lock state is set so that the customer cannot operate the POS terminal device 20. In addition, the error notification includes various notifications (notification that an error has occurred, the type of error that has occurred, that a clerk is being called, and the like).

Further, when the monitoring device 11 receives the notification input, the notification unit performs a voice notification. Specifically, when the POS terminal device 20 receives the notification instruction from the monitoring device 11, the notification unit performs a voice notification. The voice-calling notification is, for example, a notification that pretends to be an error state, although it is not actually in an error state. In addition, the notification for calling out is the same notification as the error notification. Specifically, various notifications (error occurred, type of error occurred, clerk are called) so that the customer cannot operate the notification. Notification of things being done) is included. The notification unit performs voice or display notification for calling.

Further, the notification unit may light the barber's pole 220 in a predetermined lighting mode to perform voice notification. The predetermined lighting mode includes, for example, a normal lighting mode for notification and a special lighting mode. The special lighting mode is, for example, a lighting mode in which the customer is less likely to be noticed when there is a possibility that the customer is cheating.

The voice notification does not have to be the same as the error notification. For example, the voice notification is not limited to the locked state, and may be operated by the customer. Further, the call notification is not limited to automatically calling the clerk, but may be a notification urging the customer to call the clerk, for example, "Please call the clerk." Further, the notification for calling may be a notification indicating the stage before the error, for example, "The paper is about to run out."

Further, the error notified in the voice call notification is set in advance. For example, a communication error is preset as an error notified in the voice notification. Therefore, when the voice-calling notification button 710a is pressed on the monitoring device 11, the notification unit performs the voice-calling notification indicating a communication error. The preset error may be changed by the operation of the clerk. That is, for example, the preset error is not limited to the communication error, and can be changed to an error related to the change machine (change near full).

The termination condition of the call notification is, for example, that the POS terminal device 20 accepts the input of predetermined information from the clerk. The input of predetermined information is, for example, input of a clerk code, input of login information, input of a password, and the like. Here, the condition for terminating the error notification is different from the condition for terminating the notification for calling, and it is necessary to eliminate the error state in addition to inputting predetermined information. On the other hand, since the condition for terminating the voice call notification is not an error state, it is not necessary to resolve the error state, and only input of predetermined information is required.

The reception unit is realized by the CPU 301 of the monitoring device 11. That is, the function of the reception unit is realized by the CPU 301 of the monitoring device 11 executing a predetermined program (product sales data processing program).

Further, the mode control unit and the notification unit are realized by the CPU 201 of the POS terminal device 20. That is, the CPU 201 of the POS terminal device 20 executes a predetermined program (product sales data processing program) to realize the functions of the mode control unit and the notification unit.

(Operation in full self specification)
Next, the operation in the full self specification will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating an outline of operation in the full self specification. Specifically, FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of processing and the operation of a person (clerk, customer) in the full self mode. As shown in the upper part of FIG. 5, in the full self mode, the POS terminal device 20 accepts the customer's operation by using the customer side display unit 205 and the customer side scanner unit 206, and registers the purchased product by the customer himself / herself.

While the customer is registering the purchased product, the POS terminal device 20 displays the total price of the purchased product on the customer side display unit 205. Then, when the registration of the purchased product is completed and the registration completion key is pressed (instruction to start the settlement), the POS terminal device 20 performs the settlement process as shown in the lower part of FIG. In the settlement process, the customer confirms the total amount of the purchased products displayed on the customer side display unit 205 and makes the settlement. Specifically, the customer inserts cash into the change machine 209 or operates the card settlement unit 208 to perform payment. As described above, in the full self mode, the POS terminal device 20 performs the registration process and the settlement process by the operation of the customer.

Further, in the full self specification, a store clerk is assigned to the monitoring device 11, and the store clerk monitors the customer. In addition, the store clerk handles errors and provides support to customers when there are suspicious customers or customers who are confused about operations.

(Notification processing in full self specification)
FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of processing of error notification and voice notification in the full self specification. Each process performed by the monitoring device 11 and the POS terminal device 20 shown in FIG. 6 is always started (regularly at very short time intervals) in each device. In FIG. 6, the monitoring device 11 determines whether or not the press of the voice notification button 710a (see FIG. 7) has been accepted (step S601).

When the monitoring device 11 does not accept the pressing of the voice notification button 710a (step S601: NO), the monitoring device 11 ends a series of processes. When the monitoring device 11 receives the pressing of the voice-calling notification button 710a (step S601: YES), the monitoring device 11 transmits a notification instruction for performing the voice-calling notification to the POS terminal device 20 (step S602), and a series of notifications. End the process.

The POS terminal device 20 in the full self mode determines whether or not an error has been detected (step S603). If no error is detected (step S603: NO), the POS terminal device 20 proceeds to step S605. When an error is detected (step S603: YES), the POS terminal device 20 notifies the error according to the detected error and stops the operation (step S604).

Then, the POS terminal device 20 determines whether or not the notification instruction has been received from the monitoring device 11 (step S605). If the notification instruction is not received from the monitoring device 11 (step S605: NO), the POS terminal device 20 proceeds to step S607. When the notification instruction is received from the monitoring device 11 (step S605: YES), the POS terminal device 20 performs a voice notification and stops the operation (step S606). In the voice-calling notification, the POS terminal device 20 displays, for example, a voice-calling notification screen 800 (see FIG. 8) indicating a communication error.

Then, the POS terminal device 20 determines whether or not the error notification or the voice notification is being notified (step S607). If the notification is not in progress (step S607: NO), the POS terminal device 20 ends a series of processes. When the notification is in progress (step S607: YES), the POS terminal device 20 determines whether or not the notification end operation has been performed (step S608). The notification end operation is, for example, an operation of inputting a clerk code or login information when ending the voice notification, and an operation of eliminating the error state in addition to these inputs when ending the error notification. included. The POS terminal device 20 waits until there is a notification end operation (step S608: NO), and when there is a notification end operation (step S608: YES), the notification of the error notification or the voice notification is terminated (step S609). , Ends a series of processes.

(Screen example in full self specification)
Next, a screen example in the full self specification will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the monitoring screen 700 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. As shown in FIG. 7, the monitoring screen 700 is a screen including a status display 701 and a function button 710, which are displayed corresponding to each of the three POS terminal devices 20 in the full self mode. The function button 710 includes a voice notification button 710a, a journal switching button 710b, and a Web camera button 710c.

In FIG. 7, the status display 701 corresponding to the POS terminal device 20 having the registration number 1 indicates waiting. Further, the status display 701 corresponding to the POS terminal device 20 having the registration number 2 indicates that the settlement is in progress. Further, the status display 701 corresponding to the POS terminal device 20 having the registration number 3 indicates that registration is in progress.

The voice-calling notification button 710a is a button that receives a notification input for performing notification regarding an error (calling notification). For example, when there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation, when the store clerk presses the voice notification button 710a, the customer side display unit 205 of the corresponding POS terminal device 20 is shown in FIG. The notification screen 800 for calling out is displayed.

In the figure, the voice-calling notification button 710a can accept the designation of the POS terminal device 20 and the voice-calling notification instruction with one touch, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the voice call notification button 710a can be received with a plurality of touches. You may. Specifically, for example, a button for accepting a voice call notification is displayed, and after the button (one-touch eye) is pressed, a designation (two-touch eye) of the POS terminal device 20 for performing the voice call notification is specified. You may accept it.

The journal switching button 710b is a button that accepts switching to the display screen of journal information. When the journal switching button 710b is pressed, the corresponding POS terminal device 20 is switched to the journal screen 900 shown in FIG. Further, the Web camera button 710c is a button for switching to the image pickup screen captured by the camera 216. When the Web camera button 710c is pressed, the corresponding POS terminal device 20 is switched to the image pickup screen 1100 shown in FIG.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a voice-calling notification screen 800 displayed on the POS terminal device 20 in the full self-mode. The voice notification screen 800 shows a communication error. In addition, the voice notification screen 800 indicates that the store clerk is being called and that the store clerk is to wait until the store clerk arrives. When the clerk arrives at the POS terminal device 20, he / she can talk to the customer and visually check for fraudulent activities in the name of a communication error. Further, when the clerk code or the login information is input on the voice call notification screen 800, the display of the voice call notification screen 800 is canceled and the screen returns to the original screen (for example, the registration screen or the settlement screen).

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the journal screen 900 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. Note that FIG. 9 describes the journal of the POS terminal device 20 (for example, the POS terminal device 20-3) having the registration number 3. In FIG. 9, the journal screen 900 includes a registration number display area 901, an operation display area 902, a status display area 903, a journal display area 904, and a function button 710.

The registration number display area 901 is an area for displaying the registration number of the POS terminal device 20. The operation display area 902 is an area for displaying operations on the POS terminal device 20 and messages displayed on the POS terminal device 20. The status display area 903 is an area for displaying any of the current statuses (registration, settlement, standby) (for example, registration) of the POS terminal device 20.

The journal display area 904 is an area for displaying the operation contents of the POS terminal device 20, registered products, each error message, and the like. The function button 710 includes a voice notification button 710a, a Web camera button 710c, a log search button 710d, a change information button 710e, a notification release button 710f, and a start screen button 710g.

The functions of the voice notification button 710a and the Web camera button 710c are the same as those in FIG. 7. The log search button 710d is a button for accepting a search for a past journal and displaying the past journal by inputting a predetermined keyword or date and time, for example. The change information button 710e is a button that accepts switching to display of change information (for example, information regarding a near full state or a near end state) of the change machine 209.

The notification release button 710f is a button that accepts the release of the notification for calling. In the present embodiment, when the standby POS terminal device 20 is notified for calling, it is possible (effective) to press the notification release button 710f. On the other hand, when the POS terminal device 20 is notified for calling during the registration process or the settlement process, the notification release button 710f is not accepted (disabled), and the POS terminal is notified for calling. A clerk goes to the device 20 to cancel the call notification.

The start screen button 710g is a button that accepts the return of the screen of the POS terminal device 20 to the start screen (remote control). When the registration number display area 901 is pressed on the journal screen 900, the journal details screen is displayed. It is possible to display various buttons (log search button 710d, change information button 710e, notification release button 710f, start screen button 710g) not shown on the monitoring screen 700 shown in FIG. 7. ..

FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a detailed screen 1000 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. As shown in FIG. 10, the detail screen 1000 includes a journal detail display area 1001, a display switching button 1002, and a function button 710. The journal detail display area 1001 is an area for displaying details such as operation details of the POS terminal device 20-3, registered products, and each error message. Further, in the journal detail display area 1001, the character color and the background color change according to the current situation of the displayed POS terminal device 20-3. For example, the journal detail display area 1001 is displayed in a background color according to the current situation such as registration, settlement, waiting, error notification, and voice notification.

The display switching button 1002 is a button that accepts switching to the detail screen 1000 of the POS terminal device 20 indicated by the displayed number. The display switching button 1002 is displayed in a character color or a background color according to the current situation such as error notification and voice notification. In FIGS. 7, 9 and 11, when the Web camera button 710c is pressed, the screen transitions to the image pickup screen 1100 shown in FIG.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the imaging screen 1100 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. As shown in FIG. 11, the image pickup screen 1100 includes an image pickup display area 1101, a display switching button 1002, and a function button 710. The image pickup display area 1101 shows an image captured by the camera 216. For example, the clerk looks at the image pickup display area 1101 and presses the voice notification button 710a when there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation. As a result, the POS terminal device 20 (No. 3 POS terminal device 20 in the figure) is used to notify the customer, so that a trigger for the store clerk to talk to the customer can be created.

(Functional configuration of POS system 1 in semi-self specification)
Next, the functional configuration of the POS system 1 in the semi-self specification will be described. The semi-self specification is a specification in which the store clerk device is realized by the POS terminal device 20 in the normal mode and the customer device is realized by the POS terminal device 20 in the accounting-only mode. In the following, the POS terminal device 20 in the normal mode in the semi-self specification may be referred to as "registered POS terminal device 20a", and the POS terminal device 20 in the accounting-only mode may be referred to as "payment POS terminal device 20b, 20c". be.

In the semi-self specification, the mode control unit and the notification unit are realized by the CPU 201 of the settlement POS terminal devices 20b and 20c. That is, the functions of the mode control unit and the notification unit are realized by the CPU 201 of the settlement POS terminal devices 20b and 20c executing a predetermined program (product sales data processing program). The customer device is not limited to being realized by the settlement POS terminal devices 20b and 20c, and may be realized by a dedicated device for performing settlement.

Further, in the semi-self specification, the reception unit is realized by the CPU 201 of the registered POS terminal device 20a. That is, the function of the reception unit is realized by the CPU 201 of the registered POS terminal device 20a executing a predetermined program (product sales data processing program). The clerk device is not limited to the registered POS terminal device 20a, but may be realized by a dedicated device for registering products.

The reception unit can receive a notification input (for example, pressing the voice notification buttons 1420a and 1420b in FIG. 14) for performing a voice notification on the settlement POS terminal devices 20b and 20c from the store clerk. For example, when there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation, the clerk presses the voice-calling notification button 1420 (calling notification buttons 1420a, 1420b). When the voice call notification button 1420 is pressed, the registered POS terminal device 20a transmits a notification instruction for performing the voice call notification to the POS terminal device 20 (payment POS terminal device 20b) in the accounting-only mode. ..

Here, the POS terminal device 20 can accept the notification input according to the operating mode of operation. Specifically, the POS terminal device 20 can receive the broadcast input only when it is controlled to the normal mode. That is, the POS terminal device 20 does not accept the pressing of the voice notification button 1420 when controlled in the full self mode or the accounting-only mode. In other words, the POS terminal device 20 can accept the pressing of the voice-calling notification button 1420 according to the operation mode.

Further, the notification unit performs a voice notification when the registered POS terminal device 20a receives the notification input. Specifically, when the voice-calling notification button 1420 is pressed, the registered POS terminal device 20a transmits a notification instruction to the settlement POS terminal device 20b. The settlement POS terminal device 20b receives a notification instruction from the registered POS terminal device 20a. When the notification instruction is received, the notification unit performs a voice notification. The error indicated by the voice notification is, for example, a communication error.

(Operation in semi-self specification)
Next, the operation in the semi-self specification will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating an outline of operation in the semi-self specification. Specifically, FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of processing and the operation of people (clerks, customers) in the semi-self specification. FIG. 12 describes a case where the POS terminal device 20-1 is set to the normal mode (registered POS terminal device 20a) and the POS terminal devices 20-2 and 20-3 are set to the accounting-only mode (payment POS terminal device 20b, 20c). do.

As shown in FIG. 12A, the registered POS terminal device 20a registers the purchased product of the customer on the clerk side. Further, in the registered POS terminal device 20a, when the product is registered by the clerk, the settlement POS terminal devices 20b and 20c are in the standby state.

Then, when the registration of the purchased product is completed and the registration of the settlement start button (for example, the subtotal button) is accepted, the registration POS terminal device 20a performs the settlement process as shown in FIG. 12B. In the settlement process, the customer confirms the total amount of the purchased products displayed on the customer side display unit 205 and makes the settlement. Specifically, the customer inserts cash into the change machine 209 or operates the card settlement unit 208 to perform payment.

As described above, in the normal mode, the registered POS terminal device 20a can execute the settlement process by the operation of the customer. Further, the registered POS terminal device 20a can accept the selection of the payment type (payment method) from the customer and the insertion of cash into the change machine 209 before the registration process is completed. For example, the registered POS terminal device 20a may accept cash input to the change machine 209 when the product is registered, that is, when the registration data is displayed and output.

The registered POS terminal device 20a can register the next customer's purchased product even before the payment by the customer is completed (even before the change is taken out or the receipt is output). That is, the registered POS terminal device 20a can register the purchased product of the next customer during the settlement process in the own device. In addition, the clerk may be absent during the payment by the customer. That is, during the settlement of the customer, the clerk may finish the reception of the customer.

Further, the registered POS terminal device 20a can also transmit the registration information to the settlement POS terminal devices 20b and 20c as shown in FIG. 12C when the registration process by the clerk is completed. For example, the registered POS terminal device 20a accepts the designation of one of the settlement POS terminal devices 20b and 20c (for example, the settlement POS terminal device 20b) from the clerk. Alternatively, the registered POS terminal device 20a accepts the issuance of a checkout ticket to be read by the settlement POS terminal devices 20b and 20c.

When the settlement POS terminal device 20b receives the registration information from the registered POS terminal device 20a or reads the code of the accounting ticket, the settlement POS terminal device 20b displays the total amount of the purchased products and the like on the customer side display unit 205. Then, as shown in FIG. 12C, the customer moves to the settlement POS terminal device 20b, confirms the total amount of the purchased products displayed on the customer side display unit 205 of the settlement POS terminal device 20b, and makes the settlement. conduct. Specifically, the customer inserts cash into the change machine 209 of the settlement POS terminal device 20b, or operates the card settlement unit 208 to perform settlement.

(Notification processing in semi-self specification)
FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of processing of error notification and voice notification in the semi-self specification. It should be noted that each process performed by the registered POS terminal device 20a and the settlement POS terminal device 20b shown in FIG. 13 is always started (regularly at very short time intervals) in each device. In FIG. 13, the registered POS terminal device 20a determines whether or not the press of the voice notification button 1420 (see FIG. 14) has been accepted (step S1301).

When the registered POS terminal device 20a does not accept the pressing of the voice notification button 1420 (step S1301: NO), the registered POS terminal device 20a ends a series of processes. When the registered POS terminal device 20a receives the press of the voice call notification button 1420 (step S1301: YES), the registered POS terminal device 20a transmits a notification instruction for performing the voice call notification to the settlement POS terminal device 20b (step S1302). , Ends a series of processes.

The settlement POS terminal device 20b determines whether or not an error has been detected (step S1303). If no error is detected (step S1303: NO), the settlement POS terminal device 20b proceeds to step S1305. When an error is detected (step S1303: YES), the settlement POS terminal device 20b notifies the error according to the detected error and stops the operation (step S1304).

Then, the settlement POS terminal device 20b determines whether or not the notification instruction has been received from the registered POS terminal device 20a (step S1305). When the notification instruction is not received from the registered POS terminal device 20a (step S1305: NO), the settlement POS terminal device 20b proceeds to step S1307. When the notification instruction is received from the registered POS terminal device 20a (step S1305: YES), the settlement POS terminal device 20b gives a voice notification and stops the operation (step S1306). In the voice call notification, for example, a voice call notification screen indicating a communication error is displayed.

Then, the settlement POS terminal device 20b determines whether or not the error notification or the voice notification is being notified (step S1307). If the notification is not in progress (step S1307: NO), the settlement POS terminal device 20b ends a series of processes. When the notification is in progress (step S1307: YES), the settlement POS terminal device 20b determines whether or not the notification end operation has been performed (step S1308). The notification end operation is, for example, an operation of inputting a clerk code or login information when ending the voice notification, and an operation of eliminating the error state in addition to these inputs when ending the error notification. included. The settlement POS terminal device 20b waits until there is a notification end operation (step S1308: NO), and when there is a notification end operation (step S1308: YES), ends the error notification or the voice notification (step S1309). Ends a series of processes.

(Screen example in semi-self specification)
Next, a screen example in the semi-self specification will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the store clerk side display unit 210 of the registered POS terminal device 20a in the semi-self specification. In FIG. 14, the registered product display 1401 shows the product most recently registered by the clerk. The registered product list display 1402 shows a list of products registered by the clerk. The total price display 1403 indicates the total price of the products registered by the clerk.

The preset key 1404 includes a product display key 1404a indicating a plurality of products, respectively. The product display key 1404a accepts the registration of the product corresponding to the display by pressing each of the clerk. Further, the preset key 1404 includes a type change key 1404b that accepts switching of each type such as vegetables, fruits, and meat. In FIG. 14, the type change key 1404b indicates a state in which the vegetable type is pressed. When the type change key 1404b indicating fruit or meat is operated, the product display key corresponding to the operated type change key 1404b is switched.

The mode display 1405 indicates the current mode (for example, the accounting-only mode) of the POS terminal device 20-2. The mode display 1405 includes a voice notification button 1420a. The voice notification button 1420a is a button that receives a notification input for performing notification regarding an error. For example, when the customer who operates the POS terminal device 20-2 is suspicious or is confused about the operation, when the clerk presses the voice notification button 1420a, the customer side display unit of the POS terminal device 20-2. On 205, a screen corresponding to the voice-calling notification screen 800 shown in FIG. 8 is displayed.

Mode display 1406 indicates the current mode of the POS terminal device 20-3 (eg, accounting-only mode). The mode display 1406 includes a voice notification button 1420b. The voice notification button 1420b is a button that receives a notification input for performing notification regarding an error. For example, when the customer who operates the POS terminal device 20-3 is suspicious or is confused about the operation, when the clerk presses the voice notification button 1420b, the POS terminal device 20-3 in the accounting-only mode can be used. The customer-side display unit 205 displays a screen similar to the voice-calling notification screen 800 shown in FIG.

In the figure, the voice-calling notification buttons 1420a and 1420b can receive the designation of the POS terminal device 20 and the voice-calling notification instruction with one touch, but are not limited to this, and receive with a plurality of touches. You may do so. Specifically, for example, a button for accepting a voice call notification is displayed, and after the button (one-touch eye) is pressed, a designation (two-touch eye) of the POS terminal device 20 for performing the voice call notification is specified. You may accept it.

The subtotal button 1407 is a button that accepts the end of product registration. When the registration of all products is completed, the clerk presses the subtotal button 1407. The checkout button 1408 is a button that accepts the issuance of checkout tickets. When making a payment with another POS terminal device 20, the clerk presses the checkout button 1408.

The registration designation button 1409 and the registration designation button 1410 are buttons for accepting the designation of the settlement POS terminal devices 20b and 20c to which the registration information is transmitted. The registration designation button 1409 is a button that accepts the designation of the POS terminal device 20-2 as the transmission destination of the registration information. When the registration designation button 1409 is pressed, the registration information is transmitted to the POS terminal device 20-2, and the settlement is performed by the POS terminal device 20-2. The registration designation button 1410 is a button that accepts the designation of the POS terminal device 20-3 as the transmission destination of the registration information. When the cash register designation button 1410 is pressed, the registration information is transmitted to the POS terminal device 20-3, and the settlement is performed by the POS terminal device 20-3.

As described above, in the POS system 1 according to the present embodiment, an input (for example, a voice notification button) for the store clerk device (for example, the monitoring device 11 or the registered POS terminal device 20a) to perform a voice notification is performed. (Pressing of 710a and 1420) was accepted from the store clerk, and the customer device (self-registration) was made to give a voice notification. Therefore, even though the customer device is not in the error state, it can be made to look like the error state. As a result, the customer can call the clerk, or the clerk can go to the suspicious customer or the customer who is confused by the operation, so that the clerk can create an opportunity to talk to the customer. In addition, the store clerk can immediately go to the customer's device by pressing the voice notification button, so that the customer can respond quickly. Therefore, even a new clerk or a shy clerk can support the customer to provide appropriate support.

Further, in the present embodiment, the clerk device is the monitoring device 11. As a result, when there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation, it is possible to create an opportunity for the clerk who is monitoring by the monitoring device 11 to talk to the customer. Therefore, even a new clerk or a shy clerk can support the customer to provide appropriate support in the full self-specification.

Further, in the present embodiment, the clerk device is a POS terminal device 20 in a normal mode for registering products. As a result, when there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation, the clerk who registers the product can create an opportunity to talk to the customer. Therefore, even a new clerk or a shy clerk can support the customer to provide appropriate support in the semi-self specification.

Further, in the present embodiment, the notification input can be accepted according to the operation mode of the POS terminal device 20. As a result, it is possible to accept the notification input when the POS terminal device 20 is in the normal mode and not to accept the notification input when it is in the accounting-only mode or the full self mode. Therefore, since the notification input can be received according to the operation mode of the POS terminal device 20 when the store clerk is arranged, it is possible to support the store clerk to provide appropriate support to the customer in the semi-self specification. ..

Further, in the present embodiment, the customer device is a self-checkout (POS terminal device 20 in accounting-only mode or POS terminal device 20 in full self-mode) in which at least the settlement of goods is performed by the customer. As a result, it is possible to perform a voice call notification at the self-registration. Therefore, when there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation, it is possible to create an opportunity for the store clerk to talk to the customer who is performing the settlement operation. Therefore, even a new clerk or a shy clerk can support the customer in providing appropriate support at the self-checkout.

(Modified example of the embodiment)
Hereinafter, modifications 1 to 5 of the embodiment will be described. In each of the following modifications, the contents described in the above-described embodiment will be omitted as appropriate. Further, it is also possible to combine the above-described embodiments and the configurations shown in the modified examples 1 to 5 respectively. Specifically, the configuration may include all of the above-described embodiment and the modified examples 1 to 5, or the configuration may be a combination of the above-described embodiment and the modified examples 1 to 5. May be.

(Modification 1)
First, a modification 1 of the embodiment will be described. In the above-described embodiment, the customer device is provided with a voice notification indicating a communication error. In addition to or in place of such a configuration, in the first modification, a configuration in which the customer device performs a voice notification selected according to the urgency of error notification will be described.

First, the urgency table 1500 regarding error notification will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the urgency table 1500 regarding error notification. The urgency table 1500 is stored in each POS terminal device 20. As shown in FIG. 15, the urgency table 1500 includes items of an error type and an urgency related to error notification.

The error type indicates, for example, one of a paper out error, a change near end, a change near full, a time error, a communication error, and an unscanned error. An out-of-paper error indicates an out-of-paper receipt. A time error is that a certain period of time or more has passed since the registration operation or the settlement operation was started. A communication error is a communication failure that prevents communication with another device. An unscanned error is, for example, an error that puts a product in a basket that normally puts the product after scanning without scanning.

Here, a threshold value is set for each error. For example, in the case of a paper out error, the remaining several tens of centimeters are set as the threshold value. The degree of urgency regarding error notification is a degree indicating whether or not the threshold value of error notification is approaching for each type of error. Specifically, the degree of urgency regarding error notification indicates any of "low", "medium", and "high". An "low" urgency for error notification indicates that it is not close to the error notification threshold, that is, the urgency is low. “High” indicates that the error notification is close to the threshold value, that is, the degree of urgency is high. "Medium" indicates that the error notification threshold is neither near nor far, that is, the urgency is medium.

As an example, in the urgency table 1500 shown in FIG. 15, the urgency related to the error notification is "high" for the error type "paper out error". That is, although the paper out error has not occurred, it indicates that the paper out error is approaching.

Further, in the first modification, the store clerk device can receive the notification input from the store clerk depending on whether the customer device is in the error state or the non-error state. Specifically, the store clerk device does not accept the notification input from the store clerk when the customer device is in an error state. For example, when the customer's device is in an error state, the store clerk's device may hide the voice notification button or disable the pressing. On the other hand, the store clerk device receives the notification input from the store clerk when the customer device is not in the error state (when it is in the non-error state). For example, the store clerk's device may display a voice notification button when the customer's device is not in an error state.

The processing of the modification 1 will be described below. In the following, since the full self specification and the semi-self specification will be described together, the main body of the processing will be described as a store clerk device and a self-checkout. In the full self specification, the store clerk device is the monitoring device 11, and the self-registration is the POS terminal device 20. Further, in the semi-self specification, the clerk device is the registered POS terminal device 20a, and the self-registration is the settlement POS terminal device 20b, 20c.

(Notification processing according to modification 1)
FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of processing of error notification and voice notification according to the first modification. In addition, each process performed by the store clerk device and the self-registration shown in FIG. 16 is always started (regularly at a very short time interval) in each device.

In FIG. 16, the self-registration determines whether or not an error has been detected (step S1601). If no error is detected (step S1601: NO), self-registration proceeds to step S1608. When an error is detected (step S1601: YES), the self-registration transmits the error content including the error and the error type to the monitoring device 11 (step S1602). Then, the self-registration performs an error notification according to the detected error and stops the operation (step S1603).

The clerk device determines whether or not the error content has been received from the self-checkout (step S1604). If the error content is not received (step S1604: NO), the clerk device proceeds to step S1606. When the error content is received (step S1604: YES), the store clerk device disables the voice notification button of the POS terminal device 20 in the error state (step S1605).

Then, the store clerk device determines whether or not the press of the voice-calling notification button has been accepted (step S1606). If the store clerk device does not accept the pressing of the voice notification button (step S1606: NO), the process proceeds to step S1610. When the store clerk device receives the pressing of the voice notification button (step S1606: YES), the store clerk device makes an urgent transmission request regarding the error notification (step S1607).

The self-registration determines whether or not the urgent transmission request regarding the error notification has been received from the store clerk device (step S1608). If the transmission request of the urgency related to the error notification is not received (step S1608: NO), the self-registration proceeds to step S1615. When the transmission request of the urgency related to the error notification is received (step S1608: YES), the self-registration transmits the urgency related to the error notification to the monitoring device 11 (step S1609).

The clerk device determines whether or not the urgency related to the error notification has been received from the self-registration (step S1610). When the urgency related to the error notification is not received from the self-registration (step S1610: NO), the clerk device proceeds to step S1612. When the urgency related to the error notification is received from the self-registration (step S1610: YES), the clerk device identifies the error based on the urgency (step S1611). Specifically, the clerk device identifies an error with a "high" urgency. Then, the store clerk device displays an error selection screen or the like and prompts the store clerk to select an error (step S1612). It should be noted that the error specified based on the degree of urgency may be notified as it is without prompting the selection of the error.

Next, the clerk device determines whether or not there is an error selection (step S1613). If no error is selected (step S1613: NO), the clerk device ends a series of processes. When there is an error selection (step S1613: YES), the store clerk device transmits a notification instruction for making a voice notification to the self-registration (step S1614), and ends a series of processes.

The self-registration determines whether or not a notification instruction has been received from the store clerk device (step S1615). If the notification instruction is not received from the clerk device (step S1615: NO), the self-registration proceeds to step S1617. When a notification instruction is received from the store clerk device (step S1615: YES), the self-registration performs a voice notification and stops the operation (step S1616). In the call notification, the self-checkout displays a call notification screen indicating the error selected in the store clerk device.

Then, the self-registration determines whether or not the error notification or the voice notification is being notified (step S1617). If the notification is not in progress (step S1617: NO), the self-registration ends a series of processes. When the notification is in progress (step S1617: YES), the self-registration determines whether or not the notification end operation has been performed (step S1618). The notification end operation is, for example, an operation of inputting a clerk code or login information when ending the voice notification, and an operation of eliminating the error state in addition to these inputs when ending the error notification. included. The self-registration waits until there is a notification end operation (step S1618: NO), and when there is a notification end operation (step S1618: YES), the notification of the error notification or the voice notification is terminated (step S1619), and a series of notifications are terminated. End the process.

(Screen example in variant 1)
Next, the screen example in the modified example 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 20. In the following, as a screen example of the store clerk device, a screen example of the monitoring device 11 will be described, and a screen example of the registered POS terminal device 20a will be omitted.

FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the error confirmation screen 1700 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. As shown in FIG. 17, the error confirmation screen 1700 is displayed to prompt notification of a paper out error. This is based on the fact that, as shown in the urgency table 1500 (see FIG. 15), the urgency for error notification is "high" for the error type "paper out".

When the "Yes" button is pressed on the error confirmation screen 1700, the POS terminal device 20 displays the voice-calling notification screen 1800 shown in FIG. On the other hand, when the "No" button is pressed on the error confirmation screen 1700, the screen of the monitoring device 11 transitions to the error selection screen 1900 shown in FIG.

FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a voice-calling notification screen 1800 of the modification 1 displayed on the self-registration. The call notification screen 1800 shows a paper out error. In addition, the voice notification screen 1800 indicates that the store clerk is being called and that the store clerk is to wait until the store clerk arrives. When the clerk comes to the POS terminal device 20, he / she can talk to the customer and visually check for fraudulent activities under the pretext of exchanging paper. Further, when the clerk code and the login information are input on the voice call notification screen 1800 and the paper is exchanged, the display of the voice call notification screen 1800 is canceled and the screen returns to the original screen.

FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the error selection screen 1900 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. As shown in FIG. 19, the error selection screen 1900 shows a screen on which various errors can be selected. In this way, the clerk can also select the voice notification by himself / herself. For example, if the store clerk selects a communication error, the call notification screen 800 (see FIG. 8) indicating the communication error is displayed on the customer side display unit 205 of the POS terminal device 20.

(Monitoring screen when an error occurs)
FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a monitoring screen 2000 when an error occurs, which is displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. As shown in FIG. 20, the monitoring screen 2000 is a screen including a status display 701 and a function button 710 for each of the three POS terminal devices 20 in the full self mode.

In FIG. 20, the status display 701 corresponding to the POS terminal device 20 having the registration number 1 indicates waiting. Further, the status display 701 corresponding to the POS terminal device 20 having the registration number 2 indicates that the settlement is in progress. Further, the status display 701 corresponding to the POS terminal device 20 having the registration number 3 indicates that the error status is near-end.

Since the POS terminal device 20 of the registration number 3 is in the near-end error state, the voice notification button 710a corresponding to the POS terminal device 20 of the registration number 3 is displayed in gray out, that is, disabled. There is. In the monitoring screen 2000, the voice-calling notification button 710a corresponding to the POS terminal device 20 having the registration number 3 may not be displayed. As described above, in the modification 1, since the error screen is already displayed for the POS terminal device 20 in the error state, it is not possible to accept the pressing of the voice notification button 710a.

In the first modification, when the store clerk's device accepts the pressing of the voice-calling notification button 710a, an error corresponding to the urgency of the error notification is selected and the voice-calling notification is performed. Therefore, as a trigger for the clerk to talk to the customer, it is possible to pretend that an error has occurred for an error type that is likely to cause an error. As a result, it is possible to support the provision of appropriate support to the customer while preventing the occurrence of the error.

Further, in the first modification, the store clerk's device can accept the pressing of the voice notification button 710a from the store clerk depending on whether the customer's device is in the error state or the non-error state. As a result, if an error state occurs, it is necessary to eliminate the error state, and there is a chance for the clerk to talk to the customer, so the press of the voice notification button 710a should not be accepted. can do.

(Modification 2)
Next, the second modification will be described. In the above-mentioned modification 1, the configuration in which the voice notification screen is displayed by the self-registration when the voice notification button 710a is pressed has been described. In the second modification, the configuration in which the voice notification screen is displayed according to the self-registration state when the voice notification button 710a is pressed will be described.

In the second modification, when the call notification button 710a is pressed by the store clerk device while the self-registration state is in the standby state, the self-registration is put into the hibernation state, that is, the state is changed to the state where the customer cannot use it. Let me. As a result, for example, the clerk can perform maintenance and the like. On the other hand, when the clerk's device presses the voice-calling notification button 710a while the self-registration status is being registered or settled, the self-registration is made to perform the voice-calling notification.

It should be noted that the voice-calling notification button 710a of the clerk's device when the self-registration state is in the standby state and the voice-calling notification button 710a of the clerk's device when the self-registration state is in the registration or settlement state. May be in a different display mode. For example, the voice notification button 710a of the store clerk device when the self-registration state is in the standby state may be used as the display mode of the “emergency lock button”.

As described above, in the second modification, when the voice-calling notification button 710a is pressed, the voice-calling notification is performed by the self-registration according to the state of the self-registration. As a result, it is possible to perform a voice notification when the customer is performing a registration operation or a settlement operation at the self-checkout. Further, when the self-registration is on standby, the store clerk can put the POS terminal device 20 into a hibernation state by pressing the voice-calling notification button 710a to maintain the POS terminal device 20.

(Modification 3)
Next, a modification 3 will be described. In the above-described embodiment, the shopping system in which the customer operates the POS terminal device 20 to register or settle the product has been described. In the third modification, a shopping system in which a customer operates a customer terminal to register a product and a customer operates a POS terminal device 20 to make a payment will be described.

In the third modification, the shopping system includes a customer terminal, a cloud server, a payment device, and a monitoring device 11. The customer terminal is, for example, a smartphone or a tablet terminal. The customer terminal may be a terminal device owned by the customer or a terminal device rented by the store. Further, the customer terminal may be installed in a shopping cart or may be held by the customer.

The cloud server registers the product read by the customer terminal. Then, the settlement device performs settlement by receiving the registration information used for settlement from the cloud server. The checkout device is realized by the POS terminal device 20 in the accounting-only mode or the full self-mode. However, the settlement device may be realized by a dedicated device for performing settlement. Further, the monitoring device 11 is a device for the store clerk to monitor the customer registration operation and the settlement operation.

The flow from product registration to payment in the shopping system will be briefly explained below.
(1) The customer uses the camera function of the customer terminal to read the product code (for example, a barcode) attached to the product. When the customer terminal reads the product code, the customer terminal transmits the product code information indicated by the read product code to the cloud server. The customer terminal may send the product code information to the cloud server each time the product code is read, or the read product code information is sequentially stored and collectively when the payment start is accepted. Then, the product code information may be sent to the cloud server.
(2) The cloud server stores cart information including cart identification information that identifies a customer (customer terminal). When the cloud server receives the product code information from the customer terminal, the cloud server stores the product information corresponding to the product code information in the cart information.
(3) When the registration of the product to be purchased is completed, the customer presses the settlement start button displayed on the customer terminal. When the customer terminal receives the press of the payment start button, the customer terminal displays a payment code (for example, a two-dimensional code) in which the cart identification information is coded on the display unit (touch panel) of the customer terminal.
(4) Then, the customer causes the reading unit of the POS terminal device 20 (payment device) to read the payment code. When the POS terminal device 20 reads the settlement code, it requests the cloud server to transmit the registration information necessary for settlement. The transmission request includes the cart identification information indicated by the read checkout code.
(5) When the cloud server receives the transmission request of the registration information from the POS terminal device 20, the cloud server identifies the cart information using the cart identification information included in the transmission request and generates the registration information. Then, the cloud server transmits the generated registration information to the POS terminal device 20.
(6) When the POS terminal device 20 receives the registration information from the cloud server, the POS terminal device 20 starts the settlement using the received registration information.

Next, in the third modification, it will be described that the notification for calling is performed. In the third modification, the store clerk device is realized by the monitoring device 11. However, the clerk device may be realized by a mobile terminal owned by the clerk. In the third modification, the reception unit is realized by the CPU 301 of the monitoring device 11. That is, the function of the reception unit is realized by the CPU 301 of the monitoring device 11 executing a predetermined program (product sales data processing program).

Further, in the third modification, the customer device is realized by the customer terminal at the time of product registration. The notification unit is realized by the CPU of the customer terminal. That is, the function of the notification unit is realized by the CPU 201 of the POS terminal device 20 of the customer terminal executing a predetermined program (product sales data processing program).

Further, the customer device is realized by the POS terminal device 20 at the time of payment. The mode control unit and the notification unit are realized by the CPU 201 of the POS terminal device 20 in the accounting-only mode or the full self-mode. That is, the functions of the mode control unit and the notification unit are realized by the CPU 201 of the POS terminal device 20 in the accounting-only mode or the full self-mode executing a predetermined program (product sales data processing program).

The reception unit (device for the clerk) accepts the pressing of the voice notification button 2111 (see FIG. 21) from the clerk. For example, when there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation, the clerk presses the voice notification button 2111. When the voice-calling notification button 2111 is pressed, the monitoring device 11 transmits a notification instruction for performing the voice-calling notification to the customer terminal when the product is registered. Further, when the voice call notification button 2111 is pressed, the monitoring device 11 transmits a notification instruction for performing the voice call notification to the POS terminal device 20 at the time of payment.

(Screen example in variant 3)
FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the screen in the modified example 3. FIG. 21A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the monitoring screen 2100 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. The monitoring screen 2100 includes a transaction number area AR30 (AR30-1, AR30-2, AR30-3), a display instruction button BT30 (BT30-1, BT30-2, BT30-3), and a transaction list area AR40. ..

The first transaction number area AR30-1 shows the total number of customer terminals that are currently shopping by activating the shopping application (predetermined application program). Specifically, the first transaction number area AR30-1 shows the total number of customer terminals (total number of transactions) during transactions from the start of one transaction to the end (for example, the completion of settlement). ..

The second transaction number area AR30-2 indicates the number of customer terminals that are engaged in transactions in which reserved products are registered (hereinafter referred to as “unusual transactions”) among the total number of transactions. A pending product is a product that requires confirmation from a clerk. For example, reserved products include NO-FILE products, unscanned products, products that require age confirmation, products that require the removal of security tags, and pharmaceutical products.

The NO file product is, for example, a product that is not registered in the product master. Unscanned products include read NG products that failed to read when there were wrinkles on the product package, pseudo-scan products that were thrown into the basket by scanning parts without codes, and camera imaging ranges. Includes non-scanned items that have been placed in the shopping cart without the need to position the item.

The age-confirmed product is a product such as alcohol or cigarette, which requires the salesperson to confirm the age of the customer before selling. The security tag product is, for example, a product to which a security tag is attached, such as a product having a certain amount of money or more. A pharmaceutical product is, for example, a product that requires a qualified person such as a pharmacist to explain the product to the purchaser.

The third transaction number area AR30-3 indicates the number of customer terminals that are engaged in transactions (hereinafter referred to as “normal transactions”) in which the reserved product is not registered, out of the total number of transactions.

The transaction list area AR40 shows a list screen of a customer terminal performing any one of abnormal transactions, normal transactions, and total transactions. In FIG. 21, the transaction list area AR40 shows a list screen of abnormal transactions. The second transaction number area AR30-2 is highlighted in a predetermined mode (for example, a thick frame mode) in order to make it easier to recognize that the list screen of abnormal transactions is being displayed.

The display instruction button BT30 (BT30-1, BT30-2, BT30-3) is a button that accepts an operation to switch to the list screen of any of the abnormal transaction, the normal transaction, and the total transaction.
The first display instruction button BT30-1 is a button that accepts switching to the list screen of total transactions (all customer terminals).
The second display instruction button BT30-2 is a button that accepts switching to the list screen of customer terminals that are engaged in abnormal transactions. In the figure, since the list screen of the abnormal transaction is displayed, it is displayed that the second display instruction button BT30-2 cannot be operated due to an aspect such as gray out.
The third display instruction button BT30-3 is a button that accepts switching to the list screen of customer terminals that are conducting normal transactions.

In the transaction list area AR40, the transaction details 2110 of each customer terminal are displayed. The transaction details 2110 include "transaction start time", "membership number", "type of abnormal transaction", "number of purchases", "total amount", "elapsed time", and "terminal type". , Includes a voice notification button 2111.
The “transaction start time” indicates the time when the transaction using the shopping ring is started (for example, the registration time of one item).
The "membership number" is, for example, customer identification information.

The "type of abnormal transaction" is represented by an icon. The icons include, for example, "ho", "year", "missing basket", and "caution".
The "ho" icon indicates that, for example, a reserved product of either a NO file product or a read NG product is registered. It should be noted that different icons may be displayed for the NO file product and the read NG product. Specifically, for example, the icon of "n" may be displayed for the NO file product, and the icon of "read" may be displayed for the read NG product.
The "year" icon indicates, for example, that a pending product of the age confirmation product is registered.

The "missing basket" icon indicates that a so-called missing basket may have been committed. Specifically, the icon of "missing basket" is registered as a reserved product of either a pseudo-scan input product or a non-scan input product. It should be noted that different icons may be displayed for the pseudo-scanned product and the non-scanned product. Specifically, for example, a "suspicious" icon may be displayed for a pseudo-scanned product, and a "non" icon may be displayed for a non-scanned product.

The "attention" icon indicates, for example, a transaction performed by a member registered as a person requiring attention (specifically, a member with a low customer rank) in the customer information stored in the transaction management server. The person requiring attention is, for example, a person who has cheated before, a person who may have cheated, a settlement operation on the POS terminal device 20 or a registration operation on the customer terminal every time shopping is performed. It is a person who takes time and effort. It is desirable for a clerk to monitor such a person requiring attention. Therefore, transactions of people requiring attention are included in abnormal transactions.

"Purchased items" indicates the number of registered products at the present time. "Total amount" indicates the total amount at the present time. "Elapsed time" indicates the elapsed time from the start of the transaction.

The "terminal type" indicates either a "customer-owned terminal" or a "store terminal". The "customer-owned terminal" indicates that the customer terminal used by the customer is the property of the customer. The "store terminal" indicates that the customer terminal used by the customer is a rental item of the store.

Each transaction content 2110 is displayed, for example, in the order (in order from the newest one) according to the transaction start time (registration start time). In the figure, the transaction contents 2110 of the newest 1st to 10th abnormal transactions are displayed. Since the number of abnormal transactions is 11 or more, the transaction list area AR40 is displayed over a plurality of pages. Therefore, it is possible to accept operations such as scrolling and page turning for displaying a page (transaction list area AR40) that is not displayed on the screen.

The order of arrangement of each transaction content 2110 is not limited to the order according to the transaction start time. For example, the order according to the number of reserved products, the order according to the number of purchased items, the order according to the type of reserved products, the order according to the positional relationship between the customer terminal and the POS terminal device 20 (closest order), and the like. May be good. The positional relationship can be obtained by using the positional information obtained by the GPS unit of the customer terminal, the communication result between the customer terminal and the beacon provided at a predetermined position in the store, and the like.

Each transaction content 2110 can accept an operation (press). When the transaction content 2110 is pressed, a detailed screen of the transaction content (product name of registered product, product unit price, etc.) is displayed. Although explanation is omitted, it is possible to display a list screen similar to the list screen of abnormal transactions for normal transactions and total transactions.

The voice-calling notification button 2111 is a button that accepts the voice-calling notification. For example, on the monitoring screen 2100, when the customer who possesses the customer terminal indicated by the transaction content 2110 of No. 10 is found to be suspicious, the clerk presses the call notification button 2111. When the call notification button 2111 is pressed, the confirmation display 2120 is displayed. The confirmation display 2120 includes a "yes" button and a "no" button. When the "Yes" button is pressed by the clerk, the customer terminal is made to give a voice notification if the product is being registered, and the POS terminal device 20 is made to give a voice notification if the product is being settled.

FIG. 21B is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a voice-calling notification screen 2130 displayed on the customer terminal Ct. The voice notification screen 2130 indicates a communication error. In addition, the voice notification screen 2130 indicates that the store clerk is being called and that the store clerk is to wait until the store clerk arrives. When a clerk comes to a customer, he / she can talk to the customer and visually check for fraud in the name of a communication error. Further, when the clerk performs a predetermined operation on the voice call notification screen 2130 and the store clerk code, login information, password, etc. are input, the display of the voice call notification screen 2130 is canceled and the original screen ( Return to the product registration screen).

FIG. 21C is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a voice-calling notification screen 2140 displayed on the POS terminal device 20. The voice notification screen 2140 indicates a communication error. In addition, the voice notification screen 2140 indicates that the store clerk is being called and that the store clerk is to wait until the store clerk arrives. When a clerk comes to a customer, he / she can talk to the customer and visually check for fraud in the name of a communication error. Further, when the clerk code, login information, password, etc. are input on the voice call notification screen 2140, the display of the voice call notification screen 2140 is canceled and the screen returns to the original screen (payment screen).

According to the third modification, in the shopping system, the monitoring device 11 receives an input for performing a voice call notification (pressing the voice call notification button 2111) from the clerk who is monitoring, and the customer terminal receives the voice call notification. I tried to do it. As a result, when there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation in the product registration, it is possible to create an opportunity for the clerk who is monitoring by the monitoring device 11 to talk to the customer. Therefore, even a new clerk or a shy clerk can support the customer to provide appropriate support in the product registration of the shopping system.

Further, in the shopping system, the monitoring device 11 accepts an input for performing a voice call notification (pressing of the voice call notification button 2111) from the clerk who is monitoring, and the customer terminal Ct performs the voice call notification. .. As a result, when there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation in the product registration, it is possible to create an opportunity for the clerk who is monitoring by the monitoring device 11 to talk to the customer. Therefore, even a new clerk or a shy clerk can support the customer to provide appropriate support in the product registration of the shopping system.

Further, in the shopping system, the monitoring device 11 accepts an input (pressing the voice-calling notification button 2111) for performing the voice-calling notification from the clerk who is monitoring, and the POS terminal device 20 performs the voice-calling notification. did. As a result, when there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation in the settlement, the clerk who is monitoring by the monitoring device 11 can create an opportunity to talk to the customer. Therefore, even a new clerk or a shy clerk can support the customer to provide appropriate support in the settlement of the shopping system.

(Modification example 4)
Next, a modification 4 will be described. In the above-described embodiment, the product registered by the customer is mainly a normal product with a barcode attached. In the fourth modification, in addition to or instead of such a configuration, a case where the product registered by the customer is targeted for a product to be weighed (self-weighing) using a scale will be described.

In the fourth modification, for example, in the shopping system shown in the third modification, a weighing device and a clerk terminal are further provided. The weighing device is a computer device that weighs the product to be weighed. The weighing device calculates the amount of the product to be weighed by using the weighed weight (or the number) and the unit price of the product to be weighed. The product to be weighed is a product different from a normal product. Here, the normal product is, for example, a product to which a JAN (Japanese Article Number) code is attached. When the customer terminal reads the JAN code, it queries the cloud server for the read JAN code and acquires the price data associated with the JAN code.

On the other hand, the products to be weighed are products whose prices differ depending on the weight and quantity of the products. Specifically, the products to be weighed are, for example, fresh foods such as vegetables, fruits, fresh fish, and meat, and delicatessen. The weighing device prints and outputs a label encoding the amount, weight, etc. of the product to be weighed. The label includes the price. That is, the NON-PLU (Price Look Up) method is used for the label (bar code) attached to the product to be weighed.

The clerk terminal is a portable computer device owned by the clerk, for example, a smartphone.

Next, in the modified example 4, it will be described that the notification for calling is performed. The clerk terminal is an example of a clerk device. The clerk terminal can display, for example, a monitoring screen 2100 (see FIG. 21) including a voice-calling notification button 2111. In the fourth modification, the reception unit is realized by the CPU of the clerk terminal. That is, the function of the reception unit is realized by the CPU of the clerk terminal executing a predetermined program (product sales data processing program).

Further, in the fourth modification, the customer device is realized by the weighing device at the time of weighing. That is, the notification unit is realized by the CPU of the weighing device. That is, the function of the notification unit is realized by the CPU of the weighing device executing a predetermined program (product sales data processing program).

Here, in the weighing using the weighing device, when there is a customer who commits fraud such as further packing the product in a bag after the weighing is completed or a customer who is confused about the operation, the clerk notifies the clerk terminal for calling out. Press the button 2111. When the voice-calling notification button 2111 is pressed, the store clerk terminal transmits a notification instruction for making the voice-calling notification to the weighing device if the product is registered by self-weighing. Then, the weighing device gives a voice notification. The voice notification performed by the weighing device is an error related to the weighing function, and examples thereof include an error for correcting a tare value (value of a container). Further, the store clerk may be able to select the notification for calling out by the weighing device.

In the fourth modification, the store clerk device is not limited to being realized by the store clerk terminal, but may be realized by a monitoring device. Specifically, the monitoring device according to the modified example 4 monitors the self-weighing by the customer. Further, the monitoring device displays a monitoring screen 2100 (see FIG. 21) including a voice-calling notification button 2111. In addition, a clerk is assigned to the monitoring device. When the clerk presses the voice-calling notification button 2111 of the monitoring device, the monitoring device may send a notification instruction for performing the voice-calling notification to the weighing device if the product is registered by self-weighing. Even in this way, the weighing device can perform the notification for calling.

Further, the modified example 4 is premised on the shopping system shown in the modified example 3, but is not limited to this. For example, the modification 4 can be applied to a POS terminal device 20 in which a customer performs self-weighing and a POS system in which a clerk is present or a POS system in which payment is made at a self-checkout. However, in this case, the store clerk device is realized by the above-mentioned monitoring device. That is, when the store clerk arranged in the monitoring device presses the voice-calling notification button 2111 displayed on the monitoring device, the weighing device can be made to perform the voice-calling notification.

Further, in the modification 4, the customer device is not limited to being realized by the weighing device, but may be realized by the customer terminal Ct. For example, when the voice-calling notification button 2111 is pressed on the store clerk terminal, the store clerk terminal sends a notification instruction to the customer terminal Ct to perform the voice-calling notification when the product is registered by self-weighing. You may. Then, the customer terminal Ct may perform a voice-calling notification. The voice notification performed by the customer terminal Ct is, for example, an error related to the weighing function.

According to the fourth modification, in the self-weighing using the weighing device, the store clerk device (for example, the store clerk terminal) accepts an input (pressing the voice call notification button 2111) for performing a voice call notification from the store clerk. The customer terminal (for example, a weighing device) is made to perform a voice notification. As a result, when registering a product by self-weighing, if there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation, a clerk can create an opportunity to talk to the customer. Therefore, even a new clerk or a shy clerk can support the customer to provide appropriate support in the product registration by self-weighing.

(Modification 5)
Next, a modification 5 will be described. In the above-described embodiment, the customer is monitored by the monitoring device 11 in the case of the full self specification. In the modification 5, in addition to or instead of such a configuration, the monitoring device 11 may monitor the customer in the case of the semi-self specification.

In the modification 5, a store clerk is arranged in the monitoring device 11. The monitoring device 11 monitors the customer's settlement operation in the POS terminal device 20 (payment POS terminal device 20b, 20c) in the accounting-only mode. Then, the monitoring device 11 receives the pressing of the voice-calling notification button 710a (see FIG. 7) from the clerk who is monitoring. Upon receiving the press, the settlement POS terminal devices 20b and 20c are made to perform a voice call notification based on the instruction from the monitoring device 11.

Even if this is done, if there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation in the semi-self-specification settlement, the clerk who is monitoring with the monitoring device 11 can create an opportunity to talk to the customer. Therefore, even a new clerk or a shy clerk can support the customer to provide appropriate support in the settlement of the semi-self-specific POS system 1.

Further, in the semi-self specification, the monitoring device 11 can monitor the customer's settlement (face-to-face settlement) in the registered POS terminal device 20a. However, when face-to-face settlement is performed, since a clerk is assigned to the registered POS terminal device 20a, it is not necessary for the clerk of the monitoring device 11 to bother to call the customer who is performing face-to-face settlement. Therefore, the monitoring device 11 may not display the voice-calling notification button 710a (see FIG. 7) corresponding to the registered POS terminal device 20a. Specifically, in the monitoring device 11, the voice-calling notification button 710a corresponding to the registered POS terminal device 20a may be darkened to make it impossible to press, or an error may be displayed when the button is pressed.

Further, in the monitoring device 11, the voice notification button 710a corresponding to the registered POS terminal device 20a may be pressed. For example, even if the clerk who is arranged in the registered POS terminal device 20a does not see any fraudulent activity in the customer who is performing the face-to-face settlement, the clerk who is arranged in the monitoring device 11 can see the face-to-face settlement. It is assumed that fraudulent activity is seen in the customers who are doing it. In this case, in order to notify the clerk arranged in the registered POS terminal device 20a, when the voice notification button 710a corresponding to the registered POS terminal device 20a is pressed, the monitoring device 11 is the clerk of the registered POS terminal device 20a. Only the side display unit 210 may be notified to that effect. That is, the customer side display unit 205 may not be notified to that effect.

Further, in the semi-self specification, the monitoring device 11 is not limited to not displaying the voice notification button 710a on the monitoring screen 700 (see FIG. 7), but also hides the registered POS terminal device 20a. , May be dimmed.

Further, while the registered POS terminal device 20a (normal mode POS terminal device 20) is hidden or darkened, the full self-mode POS terminal device 20, the settlement POS terminal device 20b, and the modification 3 The POS terminal device 20 dedicated to payment in the shopping system may be displayed on one screen as a monitoring target. Further, the monitoring device 11 may display the POS terminal device 20 for each controlled mode by using a button, a tab, or the like.

Hereinafter, the summary of the embodiments will be described.
[Technical Field] Product Sales Data Processing System, Clerk Equipment, Customer Equipment, Notification Method, and Program The present invention relates to a product sales data processing system, store clerk device, customer device, notification method, and program.
[Background technology]
Conventionally, in stores such as supermarkets, POS (Point Of Sales) registers, in which customers perform self-payment without going through a clerk, have become widespread. In such a POS register, since the customer operates the POS register, the customer may be fraudulent or the customer may not be able to operate the POS register properly. Therefore, there is known a self-checkout system in which an attendant terminal displays an operating status of a self-checkout terminal and an error occurrence status (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).
[Prior Art Document]
[Patent Document]
[Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2007-95026 [Summary of the invention]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, even if there are suspicious customers or customers who are confused about the operation at the self-registration, if there is no error in the self-registration, there is no opportunity for the clerk to talk to the customer, so talk to the customer. You may hesitate. For this reason, there is a problem that a new clerk or a shy clerk may not be able to provide appropriate support to the customer.
The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of assisting a clerk to provide appropriate support to a customer.
[Means to solve problems]

(1) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the product sales data processing system according to one aspect of the present invention includes a customer device in which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by the customer. In a product sales data processing system including a clerk's device operated by a clerk, the clerk's device can receive an input from the clerk to notify an error in the customer's device, and the customer's device can be received. Is a product sales data processing system characterized in that when the store clerk device receives the input, the notification is performed.
According to the above configuration, the customer device can appear to be in an error state even though it is not in an error state. As a result, the clerk can be urged to call the clerk, or the clerk can go to a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation, so that the clerk can create an opportunity to talk to the customer. Therefore, even a new clerk or a shy clerk can support the customer to provide appropriate support.

(2) In the configuration of (1) above, the store clerk device may be a monitoring device for monitoring the customer device.
According to the above configuration, when there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation, it is possible to create an opportunity for the clerk who is monitoring by the monitoring device 11 to talk to the customer. Therefore, even a new clerk or a shy clerk can support the customer to provide appropriate support in the full self-specification.

(3) In the configuration of (1) or (2) above, the store clerk device may be a device for the store clerk to register a product.
According to the above configuration, when there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation, the clerk who registers the product can create an opportunity to talk to the customer. Therefore, even a new clerk or a shy clerk can support the customer to provide appropriate support in the semi-self specification.

(4) In the configuration of (3) above, the store clerk device operates and operates in any of a plurality of operation modes including at least an operation mode in which the product is registered by the store clerk. The input may be accepted according to the above.
According to the above configuration, it is possible to accept the notification input (calling notification button) when the POS terminal device 20 is in the normal mode, and not to accept the notification input when it is in the accounting-only mode or the full self mode. Therefore, since the notification input can be received according to the operation mode of the POS terminal device 20 when the store clerk is arranged, it is possible to support the store clerk to provide appropriate support to the customer in the semi-self specification. ..

(5) In any of the configurations (1) to (4) above, the customer device operates in any of a plurality of operation modes including an operation mode in which the payment of goods is performed by the customer. You may try to do it.
According to the above configuration, it is possible to perform a voice call notification at the self-registration. As a result, when there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation, it is possible to create an opportunity for the clerk to talk to the customer who is performing the settlement operation. Therefore, even a new clerk or a shy clerk can support the customer in providing appropriate support at the self-checkout.

(6) In any of the configurations (1) to (5) above, the storage means for storing the urgency indicating whether or not the threshold value of error notification is approaching for each type of error, and the customer device are , The notification may be performed for the type selected based on the urgency stored in the storage means.
According to the above configuration, as a trigger for the clerk to talk to the customer, it is possible to pretend that an error has occurred for an error type that is likely to cause an error. Therefore, it is possible to support the appropriate support to the customer while preventing the occurrence of the error.

(7) In any of the configurations (1) to (6) above, the store clerk device receives the input from the store clerk depending on whether the customer device is in an error state or a non-error state. It may be possible to accept.
According to the above configuration, it is possible not to accept the pressing of the voice-calling notification button 710a when an error state occurs. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the clerk from performing unnecessary operations.

(8) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the clerk device according to another aspect of the present invention includes a customer device in which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by the customer, and a clerk. The clerk's device operated by the clerk and the clerk's device of the product sales data processing system including the customer's device can receive an input for notifying an error in the customer's device from the clerk, and accept the input from the clerk. In this case, the device for a clerk is characterized in that an instruction for performing the notification is transmitted to the device for the customer.
According to the above configuration, the customer device can appear to be in an error state even though it is not in an error state. As a result, the clerk can be urged to call the clerk, or the clerk can go to a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation, so that the clerk can create an opportunity to talk to the customer. Therefore, even a new clerk or a shy clerk can support the customer to provide appropriate support.

(9) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the customer device according to another aspect of the present invention includes a customer device in which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by the customer, and a clerk. The customer device of the merchandise sales data processing system including the clerk device operated by the clerk device receives an input from the clerk to notify the customer of the error in the customer device. It is a customer device characterized by performing notification.
According to the above configuration, the customer device can appear to be in an error state even though it is not in an error state. As a result, the clerk can be urged to call the clerk, or the clerk can go to a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation, so that the clerk can create an opportunity to talk to the customer. Therefore, even a new clerk or a shy clerk can support the customer to provide appropriate support.

(10) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the notification method according to another aspect of the present invention is performed by a customer device in which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by the customer, and by a clerk. Execution of processing that allows the computer used for the customer device of the product sales data processing system including the device for the clerk to be operated to receive an input from the clerk for notifying the customer of the error in the customer device. However, the notification method is characterized in that the computer used for the customer device executes the process of performing the notification when the store clerk device receives the input.
According to the above configuration, the customer device can appear to be in an error state even though it is not in an error state. As a result, the clerk can be urged to call the clerk, or the clerk can go to a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation, so that the clerk can create an opportunity to talk to the customer. Therefore, even a new clerk or a shy clerk can support the customer to provide appropriate support.

(11) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the program according to another aspect of the present invention is operated by a customer device in which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by the customer, and a store clerk. The clerk's device and the computer used for the customer's device of the product sales data processing system including the customer's device are made to execute a process that allows the clerk to accept an input for notifying an error in the customer's device. The program is characterized in that a computer used for the customer device is made to execute a process of performing the notification when the store clerk device receives the input.
According to the above configuration, the customer device can appear to be in an error state even though it is not in an error state. As a result, the clerk can be urged to call the clerk, or the clerk can go to a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation, so that the clerk can create an opportunity to talk to the customer. Therefore, even a new clerk or a shy clerk can support the customer to provide appropriate support.

In addition, all or part of each function (input / output, storage, processing (including judgment)) in each device (monitoring device 11, POS terminal device 20, etc.) described above has been described as the execution subject of the function. It may be realized in another device different from the device.

For example, instead of the POS terminal device 20, the store controller 10 or a cloud server (not shown) may store the urgency table 1500. Further, for example, instead of the monitoring device 11 and the POS terminal device 20, the process executed by these devices (for example, see FIG. 6) may be executed.

Further, in the above description, the configuration in which the store clerk device includes the reception unit and the customer device includes the mode control unit and the notification unit has been described, but all or part of these functional units are other. It may be provided in the computer device of. For example, all or a part of these functional units may be provided in the store controller 10, may be provided in the cloud server, or may be provided in a computer device other than these. Further, the number of computer devices provided with these functional units is not limited to a plurality, and may be one. For example, one computer device may include all of these functional units.

In connection with the above, the monitoring device 11 and the POS terminal device 20 may function as a so-called thin client specialized in the input / output interface portion with respect to the notification regarding the error. That is, the monitoring device 11 and the POS terminal device 20 receive various inputs (operation by the operator, detection by a device such as a scanner), transmit input information (operation information, scan information, etc.) to the cloud server, and input the input. The processing result of the cloud server based on the information (update screen information, device control information, etc.) may be received and various outputs (display on the display unit, device control) may be performed.

Further, the program for realizing the POS system 1, the monitoring device 11, the POS terminal device 20, the cloud server, the shopping system, etc. described above is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program is recorded in the computer system. You may load it and execute it. The term "computer system" as used herein includes hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices. Further, the "computer-readable recording medium" refers to a portable medium such as a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disk, a ROM, or a CD-ROM, and a storage device such as a hard disk built in a computer system. Furthermore, a "computer-readable recording medium" is a volatile memory (RAM) inside a computer system that serves as a server or client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. Also includes those that hold the program for a certain period of time. Further, the program may be transmitted from a computer system in which this program is stored in a storage device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium or by a transmission wave in the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" for transmitting a program refers to a medium having a function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet or a communication line (communication line) such as a telephone line. Further, the above program may be for realizing a part of the above-mentioned functions. Further, it may be a so-called difference file (difference program) that can realize the above-mentioned function in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system.

1 ... POS system 10 ... Store controller 11 ... Monitoring device 20 ... POS terminal device 201, 301 ... CPU
202, 302 ... ROM
203, 303 ... RAM
204, 304 ... Hard disk 205 ... Customer side display unit 206 ... Customer side scanner unit 208 ... Card payment unit 209 ... Change machine 210 ... Clerk side display unit 211 ... Key operation unit 212 ... Clerk side scanner unit 213 ... Printing unit 214 ... Voice Output unit 215 ... Communication unit 216 ... Camera 305 ... Display unit 306 ... Audio output unit 307 ... Communication unit

Claims (11)

In a merchandise sales data processing system that includes a customer device in which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by the customer, and a clerk device operated by a clerk.
The store clerk device can receive an input from the store clerk for notifying an error in the customer device.
The customer device performs the notification when the store clerk device receives the input.
A product sales data processing system characterized by this. The store clerk device is a monitoring device that monitors the customer device.
The product sales data processing system according to claim 1. The clerk device is a device for a clerk to register a product.
The product sales data processing system according to claim 1 or 2. The clerk device is
At least one of the multiple operation modes including the operation mode in which the product is registered by the clerk operates in one of the operation modes.
The input can be accepted according to the operating mode.
The product sales data processing system according to claim 3, wherein the product sales data processing system is characterized in that. The customer device operates in any of a plurality of operation modes including at least an operation mode in which the payment of goods is performed by the customer.
The product sales data processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that. For each type of error, a storage means for storing the urgency indicating whether or not the threshold value of error notification is approaching, and a storage means.
The customer device performs the notification for the type selected based on the urgency stored in the storage means.
The product sales data processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that. The clerk device is
The input can be accepted from the clerk depending on whether the customer device is in an error state or a non-error state.
The product sales data processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that. The clerk device of the product sales data processing system including a customer device in which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by the customer and a clerk device operated by the clerk.
It is possible to receive an input from a store clerk for notifying an error in the customer's device.
When the input is received from the clerk, an instruction for performing the notification is transmitted to the customer device.
A device for clerk that is characterized by that. The customer device of the product sales data processing system includes a customer device in which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by the customer, and a clerk device operated by the clerk.
When the store clerk device receives an input from the store clerk for performing notification regarding an error in the customer device, the notification is performed.
A customer device that features that. A computer used in the customer device of a product sales data processing system, including a customer device in which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by the customer, and a salesperson device operated by a salesperson. However, the store clerk can accept an input for notifying the customer of the error in the customer's device.
Execute the process,
The computer used for the customer device performs the notification when the store clerk device receives the input.
A notification method characterized by executing processing. A computer used in the customer device of a product sales data processing system, including a customer device in which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by the customer, and a salesperson device operated by a salesperson. In addition, the store clerk can accept an input for notifying the customer of the error in the customer's device.
Execute the process,
When the store clerk device receives the input to the computer used for the customer device, the notification is performed.
A program characterized by executing processing.

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