JP5880419B2 - POS system, registration device and program - Google Patents

Description

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

  Currently, there is a POS (Point Of Sales) system in which a registration device for registering a product and a settlement device for settlement of the registered product are separated (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In such a POS system, as a method of passing information related to transactions from the registration device to the settlement device, an operation in which a clerk operates the registration device instead of an accounting ticket and designates a specific settlement device according to the settlement status. Has also been done.

JP2011-158993A

By the way, when a customer who completes the settlement by the settlement apparatus and completes the transaction offers a return transaction, the customer must return the returned cash. In a POS system that performs such operations, in such a situation, the return process is performed by the store clerk calling the store clerk operation screen in the checkout apparatus, or by the registration apparatus. However, basically, no change is prepared in the registration device, so even if a return process is performed by the registration device, it is necessary to withdraw cash for refund from the settlement device.
In addition, when a cash voucher such as a rice voucher or a gift certificate cannot be handled by the checkout device, the voucher is exchanged by the registration device. At this time, if the amount paid by the cash voucher exceeds the transaction amount and the portion of the change to be refunded in cash (hereinafter, such transaction is referred to as “transaction with change”), the change of payment is settled as above. It is necessary to withdraw money with the device.
In the conventional POS system, if there is a return transaction as described above or a “transaction with change” due to the use of a cash voucher, etc., even if the clerk performs the processing with the registration device, The store clerk had to take out the change manually by operating the clerk operation screen in the checkout device, which caused a delay in the registration / checkout process.

The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object of the present invention is to provide a return-to-goods service or a “fishing change” in a POS system in which a registration device and a settlement device are arranged at different positions and the settlement device is designated by the registration device. It is an object of the present invention to provide a POS system , a registration device, and a program that can easily perform refund / change processing in “transaction”.

The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and includes a registration device for registering a product to be purchased by a customer, and a plurality of settlements based on transaction information of the product registered by the registration device. A POS system having a settlement apparatus, a refund information generating means for generating refund information to be refunded to a customer in a predetermined process, a selection means for selecting a settlement apparatus to be refunded based on the refund information, Refund information transmitting means for transmitting the refund information so that a refund can be made by the selected settlement apparatus, wherein the settlement apparatus receives the refund information, and the refund information received by the reception means. And a withdrawal means for withdrawing money according to the amount to be refunded to the customer.

  According to this invention, when a return or “transaction with change” occurs, the store clerk designates a settlement apparatus to be refunded in the registration apparatus, and the selected settlement apparatus withdraws. Thereby, the clerk can withdraw the change without going to the position of the checkout device and operating it.

  In the POS system, the present invention further comprises a withdrawal instruction means for determining a withdrawal timing based on the refund information, and the withdrawal means is at a timing determined by the withdrawal instruction means. Based on the refund information received by the receiving means, a withdrawal is made according to the amount to be refunded to the customer.

  According to the present invention, the registration device determines the withdrawal timing based on the refund information, and the settlement device dispenses money at the determined timing. Thereby, after the store clerk visually confirms that the customer has stood in front of the settlement apparatus, the withdrawal can be made in the settlement apparatus, so that safety is improved.

  According to the present invention, when a return or “transaction with change” occurs, the store clerk designates a settlement apparatus to be refunded in the registration apparatus, and the selected settlement apparatus withdraws money. Thereby, the clerk can withdraw the change without going to the position of the checkout device and operating it.

It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the POS system in embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the POS register for registration in this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the POS register for adjustment in this embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the external appearance structure of the POS register for registration in this embodiment, and the POS register for adjustment. It is a flowchart showing the operation | movement procedure of the POS register for registration in this embodiment. It is an image figure which shows an example of the payment slip which the POS register for registration in this embodiment issues. It is an image figure which shows an example of the selection screen which the POS register for registration in this embodiment displays. It is an image figure which shows an example of the payment instruction | indication screen which the POS register for registration in this embodiment displays. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of the voucher settlement process which the POS register for registration in this embodiment performs. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of the POS register for adjustment in this embodiment.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an embodiment of a POS system 1 according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, in this embodiment, the POS system 1 includes a store controller 10, a registration POS register 20 (registration device), three POS registers for settlement 30 (a settlement device), and a settlement monitoring device. 40. The store controller 10, the registration POS register 20, the three settlement POS registers 30, and the settlement monitoring apparatus 40 are connected to each other via a wired or wireless LAN (Local Area Network) 11.

  The configuration of the POS system 1 shown in FIG. 1 is an example. For example, a plurality of registration POS registers 20 are provided, the number of settlement POS registers 30 is further increased, or the number of settlement POS registers 30 is increased. Can be reduced to two. Further, the store controller 10, the registration POS register 20, the settlement POS register 30, and the settlement monitoring apparatus 40 are not necessarily connected via the LAN 11. In this case, data exchange can be performed using power line communication that realizes high-speed communication using electric wiring. It is also possible to omit the store controller 10 by making the registration POS register 20 have the function of the store controller 10.

  The store controller 10 is a computer that controls the POS system 1 and manages various information such as a product master. The store controller 10 appropriately transmits the latest product master to the registration POS register 20 and the settlement POS registers 30. Here, the product master is a file that stores product information such as product identification information, product name, and sales price of each product, and is appropriately updated.

  The settlement monitoring device 40 is a device for mainly monitoring the settlement status in the settlement POS register 30. For example, in the settlement monitoring device 40, for example, when there is an unfinished transaction that has not been settled even after a predetermined time has elapsed since registration in the registration POS register 20 is completed, such transaction is displayed in a predetermined display mode. Notify by. By looking at this display, the store clerk can grasp the state of settlement in the entire transaction that has been registered in the current store.

The registration POS register 20 performs a process of registering data of a product that the customer intends to purchase. Data registration is performed, for example, by reading a barcode attached to a product. Therefore, the registration POS register 20 is provided with a scanner that reads, for example, a bar code (product code) attached to a product purchased by a customer by a store clerk. In the present application, data relating to a product registered by the registration POS register 20 and used in the settlement process is referred to as transaction information. The transaction information includes information on the price of all the products to be purchased, that is, the total price, and the unit price and number of each product.
The registration POS register 20 receives and manages status information from each settlement POS register 30.

  Further, the registration POS register 20 selects the settlement POS register 30 as a transaction information transmission destination in accordance with the status information. At that time, the registration POS register 20 determines which settlement POS register 30 should be used by the customer who is currently registering the product based on the status information so as to reduce the waiting time as much as possible. That is, the registration POS register 20 selects an optimum one from the plurality of settlement POS registers 30. The registration POS register 20 selects, for example, a free adjustment POS register 30. Alternatively, when all the settlement POS registers 30 are filled with customers, the registration POS register 20 selects the settlement apparatus that seems to be freed earliest. Then, the registration POS register 20 transmits the transaction information to the selected settlement POS register 30. A customer who wants to purchase a product indicated by the transaction information can operate the settlement POS register 30 to which the transaction information is transmitted and perform the settlement process by himself / herself. The checkout process is a process of paying and paying for a product to be purchased by selectively using cash, electronic money, a credit card, or the like.

  The status information is information indicating the progress of the settlement process in the settlement POS register 30. The progress status is divided into statuses such as standby status, settlement, receipt issuance, vacancy status, accounting suspension, and trouble occurrence. Based on this progress, the registration POS register 20 determines which settlement POS register 30 is to be selected. For example, the registration POS register 20 preferentially selects the checkout POS register 30 in an empty state. Further, if there is no vacant settlement POS register 30, a receipt issuance is selected. The above three progress states of the standby state, during settlement, and during receipt issuance indicate the stage during the settlement process, and the progress state shifts from the standby state during settlement and from settlement to receipt issuance. Therefore, the progress is progressing when the receipt is issued than when the payment is being made. If there is no vacant item, the receipt POS register that seems to be available first is selected by selecting the receipt issue. 30 can be selected.

  Further, the registration POS register 20 performs the following display processing when transmitting transaction information during the current product registration work to the settlement POS register 30 selected as described above. For example, the registration POS register 20 displays the status information received from each settlement POS register 30 on a display screen such as a touch panel of the registration POS register 20. This display is not limited to when the transaction information is transmitted, but may be performed constantly or at any time during the registration process or during free time. Further, when the transaction information is transmitted, the registration POS register 20 displays to which clerk or customer knows which settlement POS register 30 has transmitted the transaction information. For example, when displayed to the store clerk, the store clerk can verbally tell the customer. The display method in this case is arbitrary. For example, the status information of each settlement POS register 30 is displayed on the touch panel or the like installed for the store clerk in the registration POS register 20, and the status information corresponding to the transmitted settlement POS register 30 is highlighted. Can be done. In addition, guidance indicating the settlement POS register 30 of the transmission destination may be displayed on the display unit facing the customer side of the registration POS register 20. Further, a receipt for guiding the corresponding settlement POS register 30 (for example, a number tag receipt on which the number of the settlement POS register 30 is printed) may be issued and handed to the customer.

  The payment POS register 30 may be manually selected by a store clerk. For example, the store clerk may judge from the status information, and the settlement POS register 30 may be selected by pressing a settlement POS register 30 button selected on the touch panel. Further, in order to help the store clerk to judge, the POS register 30 for adjustment which is vacant (or seems to be vacant) may be highlighted in the display of status information.

  Further, the registration POS register 20 may print all purchase contents of the products purchased by the customer. In this case, the customer can confirm the registered contents using the registration POS register 20 by looking at the print result before operating the settlement POS register 30 and performing the settlement process.

  Further, the registration POS register 20 performs a return process for a product for which a customer has requested a return (hereinafter referred to as a returned product). For example, first, the registration POS register 20 inputs a transaction number printed on a receipt relating to a returned product, and then reads a barcode attached to the returned product. The transaction number is transaction identification information for identifying each transaction. Then, the registration POS register 20 reads the transaction information corresponding to the input transaction number, identifies the returned product, calculates a refund amount to be refunded to the customer, and generates refund information. The refund information is data for allowing the settlement POS register 30 to withdraw cash, including the refund amount. Subsequently, the registration POS register 20 selects the settlement POS register 30 for refunding the customer, and transmits the generated refund information to the selected settlement POS register 30. Further, the registration POS register 20 determines the timing at which the settlement POS register 30 makes a withdrawal based on the refund information in accordance with the operation of the store clerk, and the settlement POS register 30 withdraws at the determined timing. The withdrawal instruction data is transmitted to the selected settlement POS register 30. The withdrawal instruction data is data for instructing to withdraw an amount based on the refund information.

  In addition, when the customer applies for payment using a cash voucher such as a rice voucher or a gift certificate, the store clerk receives the cash voucher from the customer at the registration POS register 20. The registration POS register 20 determines the amount to be settled in the settlement POS register 30 according to the amount of the voucher received by the store clerk from the customer. For example, the registration POS register 20 indicates the difference between the transaction amount and the voucher amount when the total amount of the registered products (hereinafter referred to as the transaction amount) is larger than the amount of the voucher (hereinafter referred to as the voucher amount). The payment amount paid by the customer is added, and the payment amount is added to the transaction information and transmitted to the selected settlement POS register 30. Also, the registration POS register 20 issues a receipt for the customer to take home when the transaction amount and the voucher amount are equal. In this case, the customer does not need to go to the settlement POS register 30 and perform settlement. The registration POS register 20 sets the difference between the voucher amount and the transaction amount as a return amount to be refunded to the customer when the amount of the voucher is larger than the transaction amount, and selects the refund information including the return amount as the selected settlement POS register. 30. In this case, the registration POS register 20 determines the timing at which the settlement POS register 30 makes a withdrawal based on the refund information in accordance with the operation of the store clerk, and the settlement POS register 30 withdraws at the determined timing. The withdrawal instruction data is transmitted to the selected settlement POS register 30.

  On the other hand, the POS register 30 for settlement is a device for the customer to perform the settlement process by himself / herself, and includes an automatic change bill machine, a card reader (for example, for a credit card or a point card), an RF (Radio Frequency) reader. A payment device such as (for example, for electronic money) is provided. Further, the settlement POS register 30 transmits status information to the registration POS register 20 as needed.

  Further, when the settlement POS register 30 receives the transaction information from the registration POS register 20, the settlement POS register 30 notifies the customer (that is, guidance to the customer) so that the customer can come to the settlement POS register 30. ) As an example of notification, for example, character information such as a predetermined number is displayed on the entire screen of the display unit included in the settlement POS register 30. The character information such as the number is information that the registration POS register 20 (or the store clerk operating the registration POS register 20) separately notifies the customer. For example, the customer can go to the POS register 30 for settlement which displays his / her number notified. As another notification example, there is guidance by turning on a predetermined lamp of the POS register 30 for settlement. For example, it lights up with a specific color, and the customer goes to the POS register 30 for checkout of the designated color. Further, it may be flashing. As another notification example, the member card No may be displayed on the screen of the settlement POS register 30. This membership card No. is read by the registration POS register 20, for example. The customer goes to the POS register 30 for payment which is reporting his / her membership card number.

  Further, the settlement POS register 30 enters a standby state after notification. That is, the settlement POS register 30 is in a state of waiting for an instruction to start the settlement process corresponding to the received transaction information after performing the notification. As an example of canceling the standby state, for example, when the customer touches the display screen of the settlement POS register 30 (or presses any button), the settlement process is automatically started. Until the screen is touched, nothing is displayed on the screen, or for example, only the number is displayed as in the above notification example. Alternatively, the settlement POS register 30 may detect whether or not the customer has approached using a human sensor and start the settlement process. Also in this case, the screen can be made non-displayed or number-displayed until it is detected. The settlement POS register 30 starts the settlement process when the human sensor detects the approach of a person. Alternatively, a camera can be used instead of the human sensor. For example, cameras may be installed in the settlement POS register 30 and the registration POS register 20, and the settlement process may be started only when the same person approaches in face recognition.

  The flow of the settlement process for the settlement POS register 30 in the standby state can be performed, for example, as follows. (1) First, a payment method is selected. Either cash, credit card, electronic money or the like is selected according to the customer's operation. (2) Next, settlement is executed. Settlement is executed by inserting cash into a bill / coin insertion / exit port of the settlement POS register 30, paying change, reading a card with a card reader, or the like. (3) Next, a receipt is issued using the printing unit of the settlement POS register 30. On the receipt, for example, a list of purchased products, a total purchase amount, a received amount, a fishing amount, and the like are printed. (4) Then, the settlement POS register 30 finishes the settlement process and enters an empty state.

  The settlement method in the settlement POS register 30 may be reported in the registration POS register 20. In this case, payment method information is sent from the registration POS register 20 to the settlement POS register 30, and the settlement POS register 30 starts processing from the operation (2).

  Further, when the payment POS register 30 receives the above-described refund information based on the returned goods or the payment using the cash voucher, the payment POS register 30 informs the customer that he / she only needs to come to the payment POS register 30 (that is, the customer To guide). Further, the settlement POS register 30 enters a standby state after notification. Then, when the waiting state is released and the withdrawal instruction data is received, the settlement POS register 30 pays out cash (banknotes and coins) according to the refund amount based on the refund information from the change bill machine. .

  Next, configuration examples of the registration POS register 20 and the settlement POS register 30 shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the registration POS register 20. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the settlement POS register 30. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of the registration POS register 20 and the settlement POS register 30.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the registration POS register 20 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 202, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 203, a scanner unit 204, a display unit (sales clerk). ) 205, a display unit (for customer) 205a, an operation unit 206, a communication unit 207, a buzzer 208, and a printing unit 209. These can communicate with each other via a bus.

The ROM 202 is a read-only memory and stores a program in advance.
The CPU 201 is a central processing unit, and controls the operation of the registration POS register 20 by reading and executing a program stored in the ROM 202. For example, the CPU 201 (refund information generation means) generates refund information to be refunded to the customer in a predetermined process. The predetermined process includes a return process related to the return of the product purchased by the customer, a process of paying the registered product using a cash voucher, and the like. Further, the CPU 201 (selection means) selects the settlement POS register 30 to be refunded based on the refund information. Further, the CPU 201 (withdrawal instruction unit) determines the timing of withdrawal based on the refund information. Further, the CPU 201 (refund information transmission means) transmits the refund information via the communication unit 207 so that the selected POS register 30 can be refunded.

The scanner unit 204 optically reads a barcode (product code) attached to a product.
The RAM 203 is a read / write memory as needed, and stores various information. For example, the RAM 203 stores product information based on the barcode read by the scanner unit 204, status information received from the settlement POS register 30, and the like. For example, the RAM 203 may store a history of operating the operation buttons.

  The display unit (for clerk) 205 and the display unit (for customer) 205a display various information. For example, the display unit (for store clerk) 205 and the display unit (for customer) 205a display information acquired from the product master (for example, product name, price, etc.). The display unit (for a store clerk) 205 is a touch panel (for example, a liquid crystal touch panel), and displays various information for the store clerk. Further, the display unit (for a store clerk) 205 accepts an operation input for product information (product code or the like) set and registered in advance by operating an operation button (preset button) displayed in an area in the screen. .

  The operation unit 206 includes various operation buttons (such as a subtotal key, a current total key, a numeric key, a correction key, a gift certificate key, and a preset key) for operating the registration POS register 20. For example, when the operation button (preset key) is operated, the operation unit 206 receives an operation input for product information (product code or the like) preset and registered in the preset key.

The communication unit 207 communicates with other devices via the LAN 11.
The buzzer 208 generates a buzzer sound when the store clerk needs to confirm the operation.

  The printing unit 209 prints information indicating transaction information and the like as necessary. However, in the present embodiment, printing of transaction information can be omitted. Note that, as described above, the printing unit 209 may print the information for guiding the settlement POS register 30 serving as the transmission destination of the transaction information (accounting data) selected according to the status information on the receipt (print medium). Good.

  The appearance configuration of the scanner unit 204, the display unit (for store clerk) 205, the operation unit 206, and the printing unit 209 are shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 3, the settlement POS register 30 includes a CPU 301, a ROM 302, a RAM 303, a scanner unit 304, a display unit 305, an operation unit 306, a communication unit 307, a buzzer 308, and a print. 309, a settlement unit 310, a sign pole 311, and a human sensor 312. These can communicate with each other via a bus.

The ROM 302 is a read-only memory that stores a program.
The CPU 301 is a central processing unit, and controls the operation of the settlement POS register 30 by reading and executing a program stored in the ROM 302. For example, the CPU 301 (reception unit) receives the refund information via the communication unit 307. Further, the CPU 301 (withdrawing means) allows the settlement unit 310 to provide cash (banknotes or coins) according to the amount to be refunded to the customer based on the received refund information at the timing determined by the registration POS register 20. Withdraw money to the change bill machine.

  The RAM 303 is a read / write memory that stores various information as needed. For example, the RAM 303 stores the product master acquired from the store controller 10 and the purchase contents of the product indicated by the two-dimensional code or barcode read by the scanner unit 304. As an example of reading a two-dimensional code or barcode by the scanner unit 304, for example, in the registration POS register 20, the status information of the settlement POS register 30 cannot be acquired for some reason (for example, a trouble is occurring). For example, the registration POS register 20 may print a two-dimensional code or barcode used for accounting on an accounting slip.

The scanner unit 304 optically reads, for example, a barcode (member code) attached to a member card or the like.
The display unit 305 displays various information on the screen in accordance with control from the CPU 301. Further, the display unit 305 stores a history of operating the operation buttons displayed on the screen (for example, the number of operations, the operation order, etc.) in the RAM 303 for each operation button.

  The operation unit 306 includes various operation buttons (such as a correction key and a preset key) for operating the settlement POS register 30. For example, the operation unit 306 accepts correction of an operation input by operating an operation button (correction key).

  The communication unit 307 communicates with other devices via the LAN 11. For example, the latest product master is acquired from the store controller 10 by connecting to the store controller 10.

When an error or the like occurs, the buzzer 308 generates a buzzer sound that notifies the error.
When the settlement process (that is, settlement of the purchase price of the product) is completed, the printing unit 309 prints and issues a settlement receipt that the customer takes home.

  The settlement unit 310 includes a change bill machine, a credit card reader, an electronic money reader, and the like, and a control unit thereof. The settlement unit 310 is used to perform settlement processing using cash, credit, and electronic money. Done. The settlement unit 310 performs settlement with cash using a change bill machine, and outputs a result of the settlement (for example, information indicating whether or not settlement has been established) to the CPU 301 via the bus. The change bill machine includes a bill insertion slot for inserting and discharging banknotes, a coin insertion slot for inserting coins, and a change discharge outlet for discharging change. Further, the settlement unit 310 performs settlement with credit, and outputs a result of the settlement to the CPU 301 via a port and a bus. Further, the settlement unit 310 performs settlement with electronic money, and outputs a result of the settlement to the CPU 301 via the bus.

The sign pole 311 has indicator lights of a plurality of colors, and by lighting or blinking these indicator lights, information indicating that the payment POS register 30 is a selected device can be notified or operated. Inform you that there is.
The human sensor 312 (human sensor) is a sensor that detects that a person (customer) is within a predetermined area in front of the settlement POS register 30.

  The appearance configuration of the scanner unit 304, the display unit 305, the operation unit 306, the printing unit 309, the settlement unit 310, the sign pole 311 and the like is shown in FIG.

Next, the operation procedure of the registration POS register 20 of the POS system 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the registration POS register 20 in this embodiment.
First, the customer takes the purchased product to the registration POS register 20 operated by the store clerk. The CPU 201 determines whether or not it is a registration process for registering a product purchased by a customer (step S1). The store clerk selects and operates the operation unit 206 as to whether the process is a registration process or a return process. If it is a registration process for registering the product to be purchased (YES in step S1), the CPU 201 executes product registration by inputting the product code (step S2). That is, the CPU 201 writes the contents in the item of transaction information stored in the processing area of the RAM 203.

  CPU201 determines whether goods registration was completed about all the goods which a customer buys (Step S3). For example, when the current key is pressed, the CPU 201 determines that the product registration has been completed for all products purchased by the customer. If the product registration has not ended (NO in step S3), the CPU 201 returns the process to step S2.

  On the other hand, when the product registration has been completed for all products (YES in step S3), the CPU 201 determines whether or not to use a cash voucher such as a gift certificate or a rice certificate for the settlement of the registered transaction (step S4). . The clerk presses the “gift key” when the customer asks for payment using a cash voucher. When the “gift key” is pressed, the CPU 201 determines that a cash voucher is used for payment. When using a cash voucher for settlement (YES in step S4), a cash voucher settlement process is executed (step S5), and then the process ends. Details of the voucher settlement process will be described later.

  On the other hand, when a cash voucher is not used for settlement (NO in step S4), the CPU 201 selects the settlement POS register 30 that is a transmission destination of transaction information (step S6). Specifically, the CPU 201 refers to each status information of each settlement POS register 30 stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 203, and the progress of the settlement processing is most advanced based on each status information (that is, empty). The POS register 30 for settlement is selected, which is in a state or is most likely to be empty first.

  Next, the CPU 201 additionally stores the confirmed transaction information in the log file of the RAM 203, associates the confirmed transaction information with the transaction number, and communicates with the settlement POS register 30 and the store controller 10 selected in step S6. Transmission is performed via the unit 207 (step S7). The store controller 10 writes and stores transaction information in a log file.

  Next, the CPU 201 issues a checkout slip (a number tag receipt on which the number of the checkout POS register 30 is printed, an accounting ticket, a POS register guide receipt) on which a guide indicating the checkout POS register 30 of the transmission destination is printed. (Step S8). More specifically, the CPU 201 causes the printing unit 209 to issue a receipt on which the number of the selected settlement POS register 30 and the transaction number are printed as shown in FIG. Then, the CPU 201 ends the process (or may return to step S1).

  FIG. 6 is an image diagram showing an example of a checkout slip issued by the registration POS register 20 in the present embodiment. In FIG. 6, as a guide indicating the settlement POS register 30 of the transmission destination, the characters “please check out at the first register” (see reference numeral 3051) are printed on the receipt. Further, “1234567” (see reference numeral 3052) is printed on the receipt as the transaction number.

  On the other hand, when the customer returns the product, the customer takes the product to be returned to the registration POS register 20 operated by the store clerk. The store clerk confirms the product that the customer has requested to return, and switches the registration POS register 20 to the return processing mode (for example, selecting the return processing from the menu screen). If it is not the registration process, that is, in the return process mode (NO in step S1), the CPU 201 inputs the transaction number described in the receipt (step S11). For example, a store clerk collects a receipt brought by a customer and inputs a transaction number described in the receipt.

  The CPU 201 displays the same information as the transaction information corresponding to the receipt on the display unit (for clerk) 205 and the display unit (for customer) 205a (step S12). Specifically, the CPU 201 transmits a transaction number to the store controller 10 via the communication unit 207, receives transaction information corresponding to the transaction number transmitted from the store controller 10, receives the display unit (for clerk) 205, and the display Displayed on the department (customer) 205a.

  Next, the CPU 201 inputs the code information attached to the returned merchandise (step S13). For example, the store clerk causes the scanner unit 204 to read the code information attached to the returned merchandise in the state of the screen on which the transaction information is displayed.

  The CPU 201 collates the code information attached to the returned merchandise with the transaction information of the receipt (step S14), and whether or not the same code information (for example, JAN code) exists in the transaction information of the receipt, that is, the receipt. It is confirmed whether or not there is the same product (step S15). That is, it is confirmed whether the returned product is a product described in the receipt.

  If the same code information does not exist (NO in step S15), the CPU 201 displays a warning on the display unit (for clerk) 205 and the display unit (for customer) 205a or sounds the buzzer 208. Or the like to notify the error (step 16). The CPU 201 performs a display for re-inputting or prompting the display unit (for clerk) 205 and the display unit (for customer) 205a, and determines whether or not an operation instruction is given for re-input (step S17). If a re-input is instructed by the store clerk (YES in step S17), the CPU 201 returns to step S11 and proceeds with the process again from the input of the transaction number described in the receipt. On the other hand, when a re-input operation instruction is not given from the store clerk (NO in step S17), the CPU 201 ends the process (or may return to step S1).

  On the other hand, if the same code information is present in the transaction information of the receipt (YES in step S15), the product is regarded as a returned product, and the return amount is calculated from the price and number of the returned product (step S18). Next, it is determined whether or not the “deposit / cash total key” has been pressed (step S19). When the “deposit / cash key” is pressed (YES in step S19), the CPU 201 selects the settlement POS register 30 for refunding (step S20). Specifically, the CPU 201 refers to each status information of each settlement POS register 30 stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 203, and displays a selection screen for the settlement POS register 30 as shown in FIG. Displayed on the department (for clerk) 205. The store clerk selects the settlement POS register 30 for refund while referring to the status information of each settlement POS register 30 displayed on the selection screen.

  FIG. 7 is an image diagram showing an example of a selection screen displayed by the registration POS register 20 in the present embodiment. In the display example of FIG. 7, “selection keys” 7001 to 7003 for selecting the settlement POS register 30 for refunding are displayed. Each “selection key” 7001 to 7003 displays the number of the corresponding settlement POS register 30 and status information. The store clerk selects the settlement POS register 30 for refund by pressing any of the “selection keys” 7001 to 7003 displayed on the selection screen.

  Next, the CPU 201 issues a return slip printed with the selected POS register 30 number and transaction number printed (step S21). The store clerk hands the returned return slip to the customer and instructs the customer to go to the settlement POS register 30 selected by the customer. The customer goes to the instructed POS register 30 with the return slip.

  Next, the CPU 201 displays a withdrawal instruction screen as shown in FIG. 8 on the display unit (for clerk) 205 and determines whether or not the “confirmation key” displayed on the withdrawal instruction screen has been pressed. (Step 22). When the store clerk confirms that the customer has reached the settlement POS register 30, the store clerk presses the “confirmation key” displayed on the withdrawal instruction screen. When the “confirmation key” is pressed (YES in step S22), the CPU 201 additionally stores the refund information in the log file of the RAM 203, associates the refund information with the transaction number, and selects the store controller 10 for the settlement. The data is transmitted to the POS register 30 via the communication unit 207 (step S23). The refund information includes the refund amount calculated in step S18. At this time, the CPU 201 sends the withdrawal instruction data together with the refund information to the settlement POS register 30. In the store controller 10, the refund information is written and stored in the log file. Then, the CPU 201 ends the process (or may return to step S1).

  FIG. 8 is an image diagram showing an example of a withdrawal instruction screen displayed by the registration POS register 20 in the present embodiment. In the display example of FIG. 8, a “confirmation key” 8001 for instructing the timing of withdrawal to the settlement POS register 30 and a transaction number “2631” 8002 of the transaction are displayed.

Next, with reference to FIG. 9, the above-described cash voucher settlement process in step S5 of FIG. 5 will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the cash voucher settlement process executed by the registration POS register 20 in the present embodiment.
First, the CPU 201 inputs a voucher amount that is the amount of a voucher handed to the store clerk by the customer (step S101). For example, the store clerk inputs the voucher amount by pressing the number + “gift key”. Next, the CPU 201 compares the input voucher amount with a transaction amount that is a total amount of products registered in the transaction (step S102).

  When the transaction amount is larger than the voucher amount, the CPU 201 sets a difference amount obtained by subtracting the voucher amount from the transaction amount as a payment amount to be paid by the customer using the settlement POS register 30 (step S103), and writes the payment amount in the transaction information. Next, the CPU 201 selects the settlement POS register 30 that is the transmission destination of transaction information (step S104).

  Next, the CPU 201 additionally stores the confirmed transaction information in the log file of the RAM 203, associates the confirmed transaction information with the transaction number, and communicates with the settlement POS register 30 and the store controller 10 selected in step S104. Transmission is performed via the unit 207 (step S105). The store controller 10 writes and stores transaction information in a log file. Next, the CPU 201 issues a checkout slip (step S106). Then, the CPU 201 ends the process.

  On the other hand, when the transaction amount is equal to the voucher amount, the CPU 201 additionally stores the confirmed transaction information in the log file of the RAM 203, associates the confirmed transaction information with the transaction number, and sets the communication unit 207 to the store controller 10. (Step S107). Next, the CPU 201 issues a receipt by discharging from the printing unit 209 a paper medium on which the date and time, transaction number, purchased product, number, unit price, total amount, deposit amount, and the like are printed (step S108). The store clerk hands the issued receipt to the customer and informs the customer that the payment is complete. That is, when the transaction amount is equal to the voucher amount, the customer can complete the settlement without going to the settlement POS register 30. Note that not only when the transaction amount and the voucher amount are the same amount, but also at a store that does not pay the change when the voucher amount is larger than the transaction amount, the processing from step S107 to S108 is performed.

  On the other hand, if the voucher amount is larger than the transaction amount, the CPU 201 sets a difference amount obtained by subtracting the transaction amount from the voucher amount as a return amount to be refunded to the customer in the settlement POS register 30 (step S109). The CPU 201 writes the determined refund amount in the transaction information.

  Next, the CPU 201 selects the settlement POS register 30 for refund (step S110). Specifically, the CPU 201 refers to each status information of each settlement POS register 30 stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 203, and displays a selection screen for the settlement POS register 30 as shown in FIG. Displayed on the department (for clerk) 205. The store clerk selects the settlement POS register 30 for refund while referring to the status information of each settlement POS register 30 displayed on the selection screen.

  Next, the CPU 201 issues a return slip printed with the number of the selected settlement POS register 30 and the transaction number (step S111). The store clerk hands the returned return slip to the customer and instructs the customer to go to the settlement POS register 30 selected by the customer. The customer goes to the instructed POS register 30 with the return slip.

  Next, the CPU 201 displays a withdrawal instruction screen as shown in FIG. 8 on the display unit (for clerk) 205 and determines whether or not the “confirmation key” displayed on the withdrawal instruction screen has been pressed. (Step 112). When the clerk confirms that the customer has reached the POS register 30 for settlement, the clerk presses the “confirmation key” displayed on the withdrawal instruction screen. When the “confirmation key” is pressed (YES in step S112), the CPU 201 additionally stores the confirmed transaction information in the log file of the RAM 203, associates the transaction information with the refund information and the transaction number, The data is transmitted to the store controller 10 and the selected settlement POS register 30 via the communication unit 207 (step S113). The refund information includes the refund amount calculated in step S109. At this time, the CPU 201 sends the withdrawal instruction data together with the refund information to the settlement POS register 30. The store controller 10 writes and stores transaction information in a log file. Then, the CPU 201 ends the process.

  When the customer performs registration processing of the purchased product using the registration POS register 20, the customer receives the payment slip and goes to the payment POS register 30 of the number printed on the payment slip. When the customer returns the merchandise using the registration POS register 20, the customer receives a return slip and goes to the settlement POS register 30 of the number printed on the return slip. If the return slip is not issued, the customer may be called from the settlement POS register 30. When the customer is called, the customer goes to the called POS register 30 for checkout. Alternatively, identification information such as a number for guiding the customer may be displayed on the screen of the settlement POS register 30, and the store clerk may guide the settlement POS register 30.

Next, the operation procedure of the POS register 30 for settlement of the POS system 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the settlement POS register 30 according to the present embodiment.
First, the CPU 301 determines whether or not transaction information has been received (step S201). When the transaction information has been received (YES in step S201), the CPU 301 notifies that the transaction information has been received, and shifts to a standby state for the settlement process (step S202).

  Here, when the customer arrives at the settlement POS register 30 and a predetermined operation is performed on the operation unit 306 or the like, or the approach of a person is detected by the human sensor 312, the CPU 301 starts the settlement process. (Step S203). In the checkout process, an operation method or the like is shown on the display unit 305, and a payment method is selected or payment is performed according to the selected payment method in accordance with a customer operation. When the settlement processing by the predetermined settlement method is completed in the settlement POS register 30, the CPU 301 reads a paper medium on which the date and time, the transaction number, the purchased product, the number, the unit price, the total amount, the deposit amount, etc. are printed from the printing unit 309. By discharging, a receipt is issued (step S204). Then, the CPU 301 ends the process (or may return to step S201).

On the other hand, when transaction information has not been received (No in step S201), the CPU 301 determines whether or not refund information has been received (step S211). When the refund information has not been received (No in step S211), the CPU 301 returns to the process in step S201.
On the other hand, when the refund information is received (Yes in step S211), the CPU 301 notifies that the transaction information has been received and shifts to a standby state of the settlement process (step S212).

Here, when the customer arrives at the settlement POS register 30 and a predetermined operation is performed on the operation unit 306 or the like, or the human sensor 312 detects the approach of the person, the CPU 301 cancels the standby state. Then, it is determined whether or not withdrawal instruction data has been received (step S213). When the withdrawal instruction data is received (Yes in step S213), the CPU 301 performs a refund process (calculation of money type corresponding to the refund amount) based on the received refund information, and displays the return amount on the display unit 305. It is displayed (step S214). Then, the CPU 301 pays out banknotes or coins according to the return amount from the change bill machine included in the settlement unit 310 (step S215).
Next, the CPU 301 adds information indicating completion of the return processing to the return information, stores it as return processing completion information, and transmits it to the store controller 10 (step S216). The store controller 10 writes and stores refund processing completion information in a log file. Then, the CPU 201 issues a receipt by discharging the paper medium on which the date / time, transaction number, purchased product, number, unit price, total amount, deposit amount, etc. are printed from the printing unit 309 (step S217). Then, the CPU 301 ends the process (or may return to step S201).

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the store clerk designates the POS register 30 for reimbursement to be refunded in the registration POS register 20 when a return or “transaction with change” occurs, and the designated POS register 30 for reimbursement is designated. Withdraws money. As a result, the clerk can withdraw the change without going to the position of the settlement POS register 30 and operating it.

  Note that when the POS register 30 for payment immediately after the POS register 30 for adjustment is designated in the POS register 20 for registration, the customer moves from the POS register 20 for registration to the POS register 30 for adjustment. In addition, there is a problem that a problem in crime prevention arises because a third party can collect the changed change. On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, the registration POS register 20 displays a confirmation screen when sending withdrawal information in a transaction to withdraw, and prompts to wait until it moves. The registration POS register 20 issues a withdrawal instruction when the clerk confirms that the customer has moved to the settlement POS register 30 and has stood in front of the settlement POS register 30 and presses the “confirmation key”. . The settlement POS register 30 makes a withdrawal based on the withdrawal information when a withdrawal instruction is given. Thereby, after the store clerk visually confirms that the customer has reached the settlement POS register 30, the withdrawal can be made, so that safety is improved.

  The embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and includes designs and the like that do not depart from the gist of the present invention.

  For example, in the embodiment described above, the registration POS register 20 transmits the withdrawal instruction data simultaneously with the refund information such as the transaction number and the refund amount when the “confirmation key” is pressed. Alternatively, when the settlement POS register 30 is selected and designated, the refund information is transmitted, and then the withdrawal instruction data may be transmitted separately by pressing the confirmation key.

  Also, in this case, when the human detection sensor 312 included in the settlement POS register 30 reacts, the confirmation key is changed from a normal mode (flashing, color is changed), or a sound is generated from the vicinity of the registration POS register 20 with sound. It may be notified or may be notified by a vibrator or the like. More specifically, when the payment sensor POS register 30 detects a person after receiving the refund information, the payment POS register 30 transmits the detection information to the registration POS register 20 that is the sender of the withdrawal information. Upon receipt of the detection information, the registration POS register 20 outputs a sound from the vicinity of the registration POS register 20 in which one of the methods described above (the confirmation key is changed to a different mode (flashing, color is changed)), or Or by vibrating the vibrator). In this case, even if the store clerk is handling the next customer, the store clerk is notified in the form of a conspicuous display screen, sound, or vibrator, so the store clerk is fishing before the POS register 30 for checkout. You can know that the customer you need has stood. Therefore, the efficiency of registration and settlement can be increased.

  In the above-described embodiment, the confirmation key (withdrawal instruction key) is displayed on the screen. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the withdrawal instruction key is assigned to one of the keyboards (mechanical keys) provided in the operation unit 206. May be.

  In the above-described embodiment, the store clerk selects the settlement POS register 30 to be withdrawn on the selection screen, but the registration POS register 20 automatically settles based on the status information of each settlement POS register 30. The POS register 30 may be selected.

  In the above-described embodiment, the registration POS register 20 designates the settlement POS register 30. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the settlement monitoring apparatus 40 that monitors the cashier status of the service counter and the settlement apparatus. Or, the store controller 10 may specify. In other words, devices other than the registration POS register 20 (service counter cash register / payment monitoring device 40, store controller 10) are used for “refund information generation means”, “selection means”, “withdrawal instruction means”, and “refund information transmission means”. You may prepare. As a result, not only the clerk in charge of the registration POS register 20, but also the clerk in charge of the checkout monitoring device 40 and the store controller 10 can handle the return processing.

  The POS register (registration POS register or settlement POS register) and the program for realizing the POS system described above are recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program recorded on the recording medium is stored in the computer. Execution processing may be performed by causing the system to read and execute. Here, the “computer system” may include an OS and hardware such as peripheral devices.

  Further, the “computer system” includes a homepage providing environment (or display environment) if a WWW system is used. The “computer-readable recording medium” means a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disk, a ROM, a writable nonvolatile memory such as a flash memory, a portable medium such as a CD-ROM, a hard disk built in a computer system, etc. This is a storage device.

Further, the “computer-readable recording medium” refers to a volatile memory (for example, DRAM (Dynamic) in a computer system serving as a server or a client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. Random Access Memory)) that holds a program for a certain period of time is also included.
The program may be transmitted from a computer system storing the program in a storage device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium or by a transmission wave in the transmission medium. Here, the “transmission medium” for transmitting the program refers to a medium having a function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet or a communication line (communication line) such as a telephone line.
The program may be for realizing a part of the functions described above. Furthermore, what can implement | achieve the function mentioned above in combination with the program already recorded on the computer system, and what is called a difference file (difference program) may be sufficient.

  (Supplementary note 1) A POS system having a registration device for registering a product to be purchased by a customer, and a plurality of settlement devices for performing settlement based on transaction information of the product registered by the registration device. Refund information generating means for generating refund information to be refunded to a customer in processing, selection means for selecting a settlement apparatus to be refunded based on the refund information, and the refund information so that the selected settlement apparatus can perform a refund Repayment information sending means for sending the payment information, and the settlement apparatus outputs the refund information according to the amount of money to be refunded to the customer based on the receiving means for receiving the refund information and the refund information received by the receiving means. A POS system comprising a means for making a withdrawal.

(Appendix 2)
It further comprises withdrawal instruction means for determining the timing of withdrawal based on the refund information, and the withdrawal means is based on the refund information received by the receiving means at the timing determined by the withdrawal instruction means. The POS system according to appendix 1, wherein withdrawal is made in accordance with an amount to be refunded to the customer.

  (Additional remark 3) The said adjustment apparatus transmits the detection information which transmits a detection information to the said registration apparatus, when the said human sensor detects a person after receiving the human sensor and the said refund information which detect a person. The POS system according to appendix 2, wherein the registration device includes a notification unit that notifies when the detection information is received from the settlement apparatus.

  (Additional remark 4) The said registration apparatus is provided with the acquisition means which acquires the status information regarding a payment process from each said payment apparatus, and the display means which displays the said status information at the time of the selection by the said selection means. 4. The POS system according to any one of appendices 1 to 3, which is characterized.

  (Supplementary note 5) The POS system according to any one of supplementary notes 1 to 4, wherein the predetermined process is a process related to a return of a product purchased by the customer.

  (Supplementary Note 6) The POS system according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 4, wherein the predetermined process is a process of paying the registered product using a cash voucher in the registration device.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Store controller, 11 ... LAN, 20 ... Registration POS register, 30 ... Settlement POS register, 201 ... CPU, 202 ... ROM, 203 ... RAM, 204 ... Scanner part, 205 ... Display part (for shop assistant), 205a ... display unit (for customer), 206 ... operating unit, 207 ... communication unit, 208 ... buzzer, 209 ... printing unit, 301 ... CPU, 302 ... ROM, 303 ... RAM, 304 ... scanner unit, 305 ... display unit, 306 Operation unit 307 Communication unit 308 Buzzer 309 Printing unit 310 Payment unit 311 Sign pole 312 Human sensor

Claims (5)

A POS system having a registration device for registering a product to be purchased by a customer, and a plurality of payment devices for performing payment based on transaction information of the product registered by the registration device,
Refund information generating means for performing processing for specifying a product that accepts a return, calculating a refund amount of the specified product, and generating refund information to be refunded to the customer;
Selecting means for selecting a settlement apparatus to be refunded based on the refund information;
Refund information transmitting means for transmitting the refund information so that a refund can be made by the selected settlement apparatus;
With
The settlement apparatus is
Receiving means for receiving the refund information;
Based on the refund information received by the receiving means, withdrawing means according to the amount to be refunded to the customer;
A POS system comprising: A withdrawal instruction means for determining a withdrawal timing based on the refund information;
The withdrawal means is
Withdrawal according to the amount to be refunded to the customer based on the refund information received by the receiving means at the timing determined by the withdrawal instruction means ,
The registration device is a device operated by a store clerk,
The checkout device is a device operated by a customer,
The POS system according to claim 1, wherein the refund information generation unit and the selection unit are provided in the registration device .   The withdrawal instruction means is provided in the registration device.
  The POS system according to claim 2.   A registration device in a POS system comprising: a registration device for registering a product to be purchased by a customer; and a plurality of settlement devices that perform settlement based on transaction information of the product registered by the registration device,
  Refund information generating means for performing processing for specifying a product that accepts a return, calculating a refund amount of the specified product, and generating refund information to be refunded to the customer;
  Selecting means for selecting a settlement apparatus to be refunded based on the refund information;
  Refund information transmitting means for transmitting the refund information so that a refund can be made by the selected settlement apparatus;
  A registration device comprising:   In a POS system having a registration device for registering a product to be purchased by a customer, and a plurality of payment devices that perform payment based on transaction information of the product registered by the registration device,
  A refund information generation step of performing a process of identifying a product that accepts a return, calculating a refund amount of the identified product, and generating refund information to be refunded to the customer;
  A selection step of selecting a settlement apparatus to be refunded based on the refund information;
  A refund information transmission step of transmitting the refund information so that a refund can be made by the selected settlement apparatus;
  And execute
  In the settlement apparatus,
  A receiving step of receiving the refund information;
  Based on the refund information received in the receiving step, a withdrawal step of withdrawing according to the amount to be refunded to the customer;
  A program for running

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