JP6434173B2 - Checkout system, settlement apparatus and control program - Google Patents

Description

  Embodiments described herein relate generally to a checkout system, a settlement apparatus constituting the system, and a control program for causing a computer to realize a function as the settlement apparatus.

  As a checkout system for mass retailers, there is a type in which a product data input processing device and a transaction settlement device are separated. The input processing apparatus waits for input of data related to product sales. When data is input by the operator, the input processing device generates payment information based on the data and transmits the payment information to the payment device. The settlement apparatus waits for input of payment data for settlement information. When the payment data is input by the operator, the payment apparatus processes the payment based on the payment information and the payment data. Such a type of checkout system in which the input processing device and the payment device are separated can employ a so-called semi-self system in which a store clerk operates the input processing device and a shopper operates the payment device.

  In the case of adopting the semi-self method, it is desirable to minimize the situation where the shopper waits for settlement because the shopper takes time to operate the settlement apparatus. Therefore, conventionally, the number of settlement devices is made larger than the number of input processing devices. In this case, the input processing device monitors the state of each payment device, automatically selects an available payment device, and transmits the payment information to the payment device, and the state of each payment device. The payment clerk selects a vacant payment device and transmits payment information to the payment device.

  In any form, in order for the input processing device to monitor the state of each payment device, the input processing device needs an information analysis function for collecting and analyzing state information (status) from the payment device.

JP 2013-242839 A

  The problem to be solved by an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a checkout system that can eliminate the need for an information analysis function for the input processing device to monitor the state of each settlement device.

In one embodiment, the checkout system includes an input processing unit and the receiving means having a transmission means, notifying means, and a plurality of settling apparatus comprising a transfer means and settlement means formed by connecting a network. The transmission means transmits information for requesting transaction settlement to one set settlement apparatus among the plurality of settlement apparatuses. The receiving means receives information for requesting settlement of the transaction via the network. The notifying means receives the information by the receiving means , and notifies the input processing device that the payment processing is possible when the payment device is ready to execute the payment processing. The transfer means transfers the received information to another payment apparatus connected via the network when the information is received by the reception means but the payment apparatus cannot execute the payment process. The settlement means executes a settlement process based on the information .

The schematic diagram of the checkout system in this embodiment. The block diagram which shows the principal part circuit structure of the goods registration apparatus and payment apparatus in this embodiment. The schematic diagram which shows the main memory area | region formed in RAM of a merchandise registration apparatus. The schematic diagram which shows the main memory areas formed in RAM of a payment apparatus. The flowchart which shows the main procedures of the control processing which CPU of a goods registration apparatus performs according to a control program. The flowchart which shows the main procedures of the main process which CPU of goods registration apparatus performs according to a control program. The schematic diagram which shows an example of the registration screen displayed on the touchscreen of goods registration apparatus. The schematic diagram which shows an example of the transmission screen displayed on the touch panel of a goods registration apparatus. The flowchart which shows the main procedures of the main process which CPU of a payment apparatus performs according to a control program. The flowchart which shows the main procedures of the reception interruption process which CPU of a payment apparatus performs according to a control program. The schematic diagram which shows an example of the payment screen displayed on the touch panel of a payment registration apparatus. The schematic diagram which shows an example of the guidance screen displayed on the touchscreen of a goods registration apparatus.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of a checkout system that does not require the input processing device to collect status information of each settlement device will be described with reference to the drawings.
This embodiment illustrates a semi-self checkout system built in a store such as a mass retailer. In this system, a store clerk operates a merchandise registration apparatus which is an aspect of an input processing apparatus, and a shopper operates a settlement apparatus.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a checkout system 10 in the present embodiment. The checkout system 10 includes a plurality of product registration devices 11 and a payment device 12 having a larger number than the product registration devices 11. The merchandise registration device 11 and the settlement device 12 are arranged for each checkout lane of the store.

  FIG. 1 shows a case where two product registration apparatuses 11 and six settlement apparatuses 12 are arranged in two checkout lanes. In FIG. 1, one product registration device 11 and three payment devices 12 are arranged for one checkout lane. The number of the merchandise registration device 11 and the payment device 12 included in the checkout system 10 is arbitrary. Further, the ratio of the number of product registration devices 11 and settlement devices 12 arranged in the checkout lane is also arbitrary.

  The merchandise registration apparatus 11 is operated by a store clerk 21 who has a role called a checker. In the settlement apparatus 12, a shopper 22 who purchases merchandise sold at a store is the operator. The payment apparatus 12 may be operated by the store clerk 21.

  The merchandise registration apparatus 11 is attached to the work table 23 in FIG. The work table 23 has a rectangular top plate. By arranging the plurality of work tables 23 so that the longitudinal directions of the top plates are substantially parallel, a passage (checkout lane) for the shopper 22 is formed.

  The merchandise registration apparatus 11 has functions of a purchase merchandise registration process, generation of payment information, a payment process, and transmission of payment information to the payment apparatus 12. The registration process is a process of registering a product brought by the shopper 22 entering the aisle as a purchased product. The settlement process is a process for settlement of a transaction that is an act of buying and selling goods. The payment information is information necessary for the payment process.

  When the payment apparatus 12 receives payment information from the merchandise registration apparatus 11, the payment apparatus 12 performs a payment process based on the payment information.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a main circuit configuration of the merchandise registration apparatus 11 and the settlement apparatus 12. The merchandise registration apparatus 11 and the settlement apparatus 12 are both connected to a LAN (local area network) 13 that is a network. Instead of the LAN 13, another network such as the Internet or a wireless LAN can be used as the network. Or it is good also as a structure which transfers information between the goods registration apparatus 11 and the payment apparatus 12 via a server.

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

The CPU 11a, ROM 11b, RAM 11c and auxiliary storage unit 11d are connected by a transmission system 11k to constitute a computer.
The CPU 11a corresponds to the central part of the computer. CPU11a controls each part in order to implement | achieve various functions as the merchandise registration apparatus 11 based on the operating system, middleware, and application program which were memorize | stored in ROM11b and RAM11c.

  The ROM 11b corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The ROM 11b stores the operating system. The ROM 11b may store the middleware and application programs. The ROM 11b may store data that is referred to when the CPU 11a performs various processes.

  The RAM 11c corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The RAM 11c stores data that is referred to when the CPU 11a performs various processes. Further, the RAM 11c is used as a so-called work area that stores data temporarily used when the CPU 11a performs various processes.

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

  The application program stored in the ROM 11b or the auxiliary storage unit 11d includes a control program described regarding control processing described later. The product registration apparatus 11 is generally transferred in a state where the control program is stored in the ROM 11b or the auxiliary storage unit 11d. However, the merchandise registration apparatus 11 may be transferred in a state where the control program is not stored in the ROM 11b or the auxiliary storage unit 11d. In this case, the control program is transferred after being recorded on a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk, or a semiconductor memory. Alternatively, the control program may be transferred via a network, and the control program may be written in the auxiliary storage unit 11d of the separately-registered product registration apparatus 11.

The drawer opening unit 11e automatically opens a drawer for storing money.
The scanner 11f reads product information and obtains a product code of the product. As the scanner 11f, various known types can be used as they are. The scanner 11f may correspond to only one of various well-known types, or may correspond to a plurality of types. That is, the scanner 11f may include a fixed or handy two-dimensional code scanner. The scanner 11f may include a scanner that identifies a product from an image of the product using an image recognition technique.

  The touch panel 11g includes a display device and a touch sensor. The display device uses an arbitrary screen such as a GUI screen as its display screen. As the display device, for example, a known device such as a color LCD can be used. The touch sensor is disposed so as to overlap the display surface of the display device. The touch sensor detects the touch position of the operator on the display surface of the display device, and sends the position information to the CPU 11a. As the touch sensor, a known device can be used.

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

  The card reader / writer 11i has a function of reading data recorded on the card and a function of writing data to the card. The card may include a membership card called a member's card or a point card in addition to a settlement card such as a credit card, a debit card, an electronic money card, or a prepaid card. The member card records information for identifying at least the member who owns the card. The card reader / writer 11i may be any one of a magnetic type, a contact type, and a non-contact type device, and may include a plurality of types of devices.

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

  The transmission system 11k transmits data exchanged among the CPU 11a, ROM 11b, RAM 11c, auxiliary storage unit 11d, drawer opening unit 11e, scanner 11f, touch panel 11g, printer 11h, card reader / writer 11i, and communication unit 11j. As the transmission system 11k, a well-known system including various buses such as a system bus and various interface circuits that connect these buses and respective units can be used.

  As the hardware of such a commodity registration apparatus 11, for example, a POS terminal compatible with an existing face-to-face sales method can be used.

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

  The CPU 12a, ROM 12b, RAM 12c and auxiliary storage unit 12d are connected by a transmission system 12k to constitute a computer.

  The CPU 12a corresponds to the central part of the computer. The CPU 12a controls each unit to realize various operations as the settlement apparatus 12 based on the operating system, middleware, and application program stored in the ROM 12b and the RAM 12c.

  The ROM 12b corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The ROM 12b stores the operating system. The ROM 12b may store the middleware and application programs. The ROM 12b may store data that is referred to when the CPU 12a performs various processes.

  The RAM 12c corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The RAM 12c stores data that is referred to when the CPU 12a performs various processes. Furthermore, the RAM 12c is used as a so-called work area that stores data temporarily used when the CPU 12a performs various processes.

  The auxiliary storage unit 12d corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. The auxiliary storage unit 12d stores data used when the CPU 12a performs various processes, or data generated by the processes in the CPU 12a. As the auxiliary storage unit 12d, for example, an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD can be used.

  The application program stored in the ROM 12b or the auxiliary storage unit 12d includes a control program described regarding control processing described later. The transfer of the settlement apparatus 12 is generally performed in a state where the control program is stored in the ROM 12b or the auxiliary storage unit 12d. However, the settlement apparatus 12 may be transferred in a state where the control program is not stored in the ROM 12b or the auxiliary storage unit 12d. In this case, the control program is transferred after being recorded on a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk, or a semiconductor memory. Alternatively, the control program may be transferred via a network, and the control program may be written in the auxiliary storage unit 12d of the settlement apparatus 12 that is separately transferred.

  The automatic change machine 12e receives coins and bills that are input. Moreover, the automatic change machine 12e discharge | releases the coin and banknote as change.

  The scanner 12f reads product information and obtains a product code of the product. As the scanner 12f, various known types can be used as they are. The scanner 12f may correspond to only one of various well-known types, or may correspond to a plurality of types. That is, the scanner 12f may include a fixed or handy type two-dimensional code scanner. The scanner 12f may include a type that identifies a product from an image of the product using an image recognition technique.

  The touch panel 12g includes a display device and a touch sensor. The display device makes the screen an arbitrary screen such as a GUI screen. As the display device, for example, a known device such as a color LCD can be used. The touch sensor is disposed so as to overlap the display surface of the display device. The touch sensor detects the touch position of the operator on the display surface of the display device and sends the position information to the CPU 12a. As the touch sensor, a known device can be used.

  The printer 12h issues a receipt by printing various character strings and images on the receipt paper. For example, a thermal printer or a dot impact printer can be used as this type of printer.

  The card reader / writer 12i has a function of reading data recorded on the card and a function of writing data to the card. The card may include a membership card called a member's card or a point card in addition to a settlement card such as a credit card, a debit card, an electronic money card, or a prepaid card. The member card records information for identifying at least the member who owns the card. The card reader / writer 12i may be any of a magnetic type, a contact type, or a non-contact type device, and may include a plurality of types of devices.

  The communication unit 12j performs data communication with a plurality of product registration apparatuses 11 connected via the LAN 13. The communication unit 12j can also perform data communication with another settlement apparatus 12 via the LAN 13.

  The transmission system 12k transmits data exchanged among the CPU 12a, ROM 12b, RAM 12c, auxiliary storage unit 12d, automatic change machine 12e, scanner 12f, touch panel 12g, printer 12h, card reader / writer 12i, and communication unit 12j. As the transmission system 12k, a well-known system including various buses such as a system bus and various interface circuits that connect these buses and respective units can be used.

  As the hardware of the settlement apparatus 12, it is possible to use, for example, a POS terminal that supports an existing self method.

  FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing main memory areas formed in the RAM 11 c of the merchandise registration apparatus 11. In FIG. 3, a memory area 31 is an area for storing a plurality of records each consisting of data of a product code, a product name, a unit price, a number, and an amount. The product code is a unique code for identifying each product individually. For example, a product code represented by a barcode is attached to each product. The product name and unit price are the name of the product specified by the product code of the same record and the price per point. The number and the amount of money are the sales data of the product specified by the product code of the same record, that is, the sales number and the sales amount for the number.

  The checkout system 10 connects a database server via the LAN 13 (not shown). This database server has a product database for setting product information such as product name and unit price in association with the product code of each product. When the product code is acquired in the product registration device 11, the CPU 11a inquires of the database server for product information using the product code. Upon receiving this inquiry, the database server accesses the product database, reads the product information associated with the product code from the product database, and notifies the product registration apparatus 11 via the LAN 13. The CPU 11 a of the product registration device 11 stores the product information notified from the database server in the memory area 31. Hereinafter, the memory area 31 is referred to as a registered product table 31.

  The memory area 32 is an area for storing the total number and the total amount. The total number is the sum of the numbers indicated in each record stored in the registered product table 31. The total amount is the sum of the amounts indicated in each record stored in the registered product table 31. Hereinafter, the memory area 32 is referred to as a total table 32.

  The memory area 33 is an area for storing a transmission destination ID for specifying the payment apparatus 12 as a transmission destination of payment information. The merchandise registration apparatus 11 transmits the settlement information generated based on the purchase merchandise registration process to the settlement apparatus 12 via the LAN 13. At this time, the merchandise registration apparatus 11 transmits settlement information to the preset settlement apparatus 12 via the LAN 13. Specifically, the merchandise registration apparatus 11 transmits the payment information to one payment apparatus 12 determined from among a plurality of payment apparatuses 12 (three in FIG. 1) arranged in the same checkout lane. To do. That is, in the memory area 33, an ID for identifying the determined one settlement apparatus 12 is stored as a transmission destination ID.

  FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing main memory areas formed in the RAM 12 c of the settlement apparatus 12. In FIG. 4, a memory area 41 is an area for temporarily storing payment information received from the merchandise registration apparatus 11. Hereinafter, the memory area 41 is referred to as a settlement buffer 41.

  The memory area 42 is an area for the processing flag F. The processing flag F is information for identifying whether or not a payment process based on the payment information is being executed. In the present embodiment, the processing flag F is reset to “0” when the payment information is not being executed, and is set to “1” when the payment information is being executed.

  The memory area 43 is an area for storing a transfer destination ID for specifying another payment apparatus 12 that is a transfer destination of payment information. When the payment apparatus 12 is executing a payment process based on the payment information stored in the payment buffer 41, the payment apparatus 12 cannot perform the payment process even if another payment information is received. At this time, the payment apparatus 12 transfers the payment information received during the payment process to another payment apparatus 12 via the LAN 13. Specifically, the payment apparatus 12 sends the payment information to one other payment apparatus 12 set in advance from among a plurality of payment apparatuses 12 (three in FIG. 1) arranged in the same checkout lane. Forward. That is, the memory area 43 stores an ID for identifying the other set settlement apparatus 12 as a transfer destination ID.

  Note that, among the plurality of payment apparatuses 12 arranged in the same checkout lane, the transfer destination ID is not stored in the memory area 43 in the payment apparatus 12 to which the payment information is transferred last. Alternatively, information indicating that the transfer destination ID is not set is stored. In addition, the communication address of the commodity registration device 11 arranged in the same checkout lane is stored in an area different from the memory area 43.

  5 and 6 are flowcharts showing main procedures of main processing executed by the CPU 11a of the commodity registration apparatus 11 according to the control program. 7, 8, and 12 are schematic diagrams illustrating various screen examples displayed on the touch panel 11 g of the commodity registration apparatus 11 by the main process. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the main procedure of the main process executed by the CPU 12a of the settlement apparatus 12 according to the control program. FIG. 10 shows the main process of the reception interrupt process executed by the CPU 12a according to the control program. It is a flowchart which shows a procedure. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a payment screen displayed on the touch panel 12g of the payment apparatus 12 by the main process. Hereinafter, the operation of the checkout system 10 will be described with reference to these drawings. Note that the content of the processing described below is an example, and various processing that can obtain the same result can be used as appropriate.

First, the operation of the merchandise registration apparatus 11 will be described.
When the merchandise registration apparatus 11 is activated in a mode for registering purchased merchandise, the CPU 11a starts control processing of the procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. First, the CPU 11a clears the registered product table 31 and the total table 32 (Act1). Next, the CPU 11a displays a registration screen SC1 (see FIG. 7) on a part of the screen of the touch panel 11g (Act 2).

  The registration screen SC1 represents the contents of the registered product table 31a and the total table 32a, and allows the clerk 21 to confirm the implementation status of the registration process. An example of the registration screen SC1 is shown in FIG. Registration screen SC1 includes display areas R1 and R2. The display area R1 displays the product name, number, and unit price of the product that is most recently registered for purchase, and the total number and total price of the purchased product after the product is registered. The display area R2 displays a list of product names, numbers, unit prices, and amounts regarding products for which purchase registration has been made before the products shown on the registration screen SC1.

  In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, CPU11a displays various function buttons, such as a product button for the salesclerk 21 to specify goods, and a subtotal button outside the area | region used as registration screen SC1 among the screens of the touch panel 11g. To do.

  In the state where the registration screen SC1 is displayed, the store clerk 21 sequentially inputs, for example, the product codes of the products purchased by the shopper 22 by operating the scanner 11f and the product buttons. Then, after inputting the product codes of all the purchased products, the clerk 21 touches the subtotal button.

  The CPU 11a displaying the registration screen SC1 waits for the acquisition of the product code of the product to be registered for purchase (Act 3). When the product code input via the scanner 11f or the product button is acquired (YES in Act 3), the CPU 11a detects product information such as the product name and unit price set in the product database in association with the product code. To do. Further, the CPU 11a calculates a sales amount by multiplying the unit price by the number of sales. Then, the CPU 11a registers the product sales data including the product code, product name, unit price, sales quantity, and sales price as one record in the registered product table 31a (Act4). In addition, the CPU 11a adds the sales quantity and the sales price to the total table 32a. Then, the CPU 11a updates the registration screen SC1 in accordance with the contents of the registered product table 31a and the total table 32a (Act5).

  After updating the registration screen SC1, the CPU 11a confirms whether or not the product code of the product to be registered for purchase has been acquired (Act 6). If the product code has not been acquired (NO in Act 6), the CPU 11a checks whether or not the subtotal button has been touched (Act 7). When the subtotal button is not touched (NO in Act 7), the CPU 11a confirms again whether or not the product code has been acquired (Act 6). Therefore, the CPU 11a waits for a product code to be acquired or a subtotal button to be touched as Act6 and Act7. Note that the CPU 11a may confirm the occurrence of another event such as another operation being performed in the standby state, and may shift to processing according to the occurrence event.

  When the product code is acquired in the standby state of Act 6 and Act 7 (YES in Act 6), the CPU 11a returns to the processing of Act 4. Then, the CPU 11a repeats the subsequent processing in the same manner as described above.

  If the subtotal button is touched in the standby state of Act6 and Act7 (YES in Act7), the CPU 11a generates settlement information based on the contents of the registered product table 31a and the total table 32a at this time (Act8: Generating means). Then, the CPU 11a displays the transmission screen SC2 (see FIG. 8) on a part of the screen of the touch panel 11g (Act 9).

  An example of the transmission screen SC2 is shown in FIG. Transmission screen SC2 includes display areas R3 and R4 and buttons B1, B2, B3 and B4. The display area R3 displays the total number and total amount of the total table 32a. The display area R4 displays various messages. The buttons B1 and B2 are for the store clerk 21 to specify that the discount is applied to the total amount. The button B3 is for the store clerk 21 to specify that a partial area of the screen of the touch panel 11g is returned to the registration screen SC1. The button B4 is for the store clerk 21 to specify that the payment information is transmitted to the payment device 12. In the following description, the button B3 is referred to as a return button B3, and the button B4 is referred to as a transmission button B4.

  When the transmission screen SC2 is displayed, the CPU 11a confirms whether or not the return button B3 has been operated (Act10). When the return button B3 is not operated (NO in Act10), the CPU 11a checks whether or not the transmission button B4 is operated (Act11). When the send button B4 is not operated (NO in Act11), the CPU 11a checks again whether or not the return button B3 is operated (Act10). Therefore, the CPU 11a waits for the return button B3 or the transmission button B4 to be operated as Act10 and Act11. The CPU 11a may confirm the occurrence of another event such as another operation being performed in the standby state here, and may shift to processing according to the occurrence event. For example, when one of the buttons B1 and B2 is touched by the store clerk 21, the CPU 11a changes the total amount included in the settlement information according to an instruction from the store clerk 21 thereafter.

  When the return button B3 is operated in the standby state of Act10 and Act11 (YES in Act10), the CPU 11a returns a partial area of the screen of the touch panel 11g to the registration screen SC1 (Act12). Thereafter, the CPU 11a proceeds to the process of Act6 and repeats the subsequent processes in the same manner as described above.

  When the transmission button B4 is operated in the standby state of Act10 and Act11 (YES in Act11), the CPU 11a proceeds to the processing of Act13 in FIG. That is, the CPU 11a acquires the transmission destination ID set in the memory area 33 (Act 13). Then, the CPU 11a transmits the settlement information generated by the process of Act8 to one settlement apparatus 12 identified by the transmission destination ID (Act14: transmission unit).

  Specifically, the CPU 11a uses the communication address set for one settlement apparatus 12 identified by the transmission destination ID as the transmission destination address, sets the communication address set for itself as the transmission source address, and transfers the payment information to the LAN 13. The communication unit 11j is controlled to transmit. Thereby, the payment information is transmitted to one payment apparatus 12 identified by the transmission destination ID via the LAN 13. As described above, the transmission destination ID is associated with the communication address set in the settlement apparatus 12. Alternatively, the transmission destination ID may be the communication address itself set in the settlement apparatus 12.

  The settlement information transmitted via the LAN 13 is received by the settlement apparatus 12 whose transmission destination address matches the communication address. The payment apparatus 12 that has received the payment information can identify the product registration apparatus 11 that is the transmission source of the payment information by storing the transmission source address of the payment information.

  After transmitting the settlement information, the CPU 11a waits for a response signal from the settlement apparatus 12 (Act 15). As will be described later, in the payment apparatus 12 that has received the payment information, there are cases where a receipt response signal is returned to the product registration apparatus 11 and an error response signal is returned. When CPU 11a receives the response signal via communication unit 11j (YES in Act 15), CPU 11a identifies whether the response signal is a reception response or an error response (Act 16). In the case of a receipt response (YES in Act 16), the CPU 11a displays a guide screen SC4 (see FIG. 12) on a part of the screen of the touch panel 11g (Act 17: notification means).

  The guidance screen SC4 allows the store clerk 21 to confirm the settlement apparatus 12 that is the destination of settlement information. An example of the guidance screen SC4 is shown in FIG. Guide screen SC4 includes a display area R5 and a button B5. The display area R5 displays a message together with the total number and the total amount of the total table 32a. The message causes the clerk 21 to recognize the settlement apparatus 12 that is the transmission destination of the settlement information, for example, “Please settle with the settlement apparatus B”. Note that the content of the message is not particularly limited. For example, “sent to settlement apparatus B” may be used, or only “settlement apparatus B” or “B” may be used. The button B5 is for the clerk 21 to specify that the guidance screen SC4 is closed. When this button B5 is operated, the CPU 11a closes the guidance screen SC4 and ends the information processing for one transaction. Thereafter, the CPU 11 restarts the process from Act1.

  On the other hand, when the response signal is not a receipt response but an error response (NO in Act 16), the CPU 11a executes a transmission disable process (Act 18). The transmission disabling process is a process for notifying the store clerk 21 that the payment information transmitted in the process of Act 14, for example, has not been stored in all the payment apparatuses 12 arranged in the same checkout lane. Further, for example, the merchandise registration device 11 notifies the store clerk 21 that the payment processing for the payment information is performed, and executes the payment processing. Note that the transmission disabling process is not limited to executing the settlement process by the commodity registration device 11. For example, a payment device that shares each checkout lane may be installed in a store service counter, and payment information that cannot be transmitted to the payment device may be transmitted via the LAN 13.

  When the transmission disabling process ends, the CPU 11a ends the information processing for one transaction. Thereafter, the CPU 11 restarts the process from Act1.

  The store clerk 21 who has received a receipt response signal from the settlement apparatus 12 and confirms the guidance screen SC4 displayed on the touch panel 11g indicates to the shopper 22 that the settlement apparatus 12 guided by the guidance screen SC4 should make a settlement. Notice. Upon receiving this notification, the shopper 22 moves to the settlement apparatus 12 and performs an operation for settlement.

Next, the operation of the settlement apparatus 12 will be described.
When the settlement apparatus 12 is activated, the CPU 12a starts main processing of the procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. First, the CPU 12a initializes the processing flag F in the memory area 42 to “0” (Act 21). The CPU 12a sets the screen of the touch panel 12g as a standby screen (Act22). The standby screen represents that there is no payment processing status, and what information is represented may be arbitrary. For example, it is assumed that the standby screen displays a message indicating that payment processing cannot be performed, or displays an arbitrary image indicating an advertisement or the like as a screen saver.

  Note that the processing procedure of Act21 and Act22 is not limited to the procedure shown in FIG. For example, the process of Act22 may be executed first, and the process of Act21 may be executed later.

  On the other hand, the CPU 12a that started the main process can execute the reception interrupt process shown in FIG. 10 in parallel with the main process. The reception interrupt process is started when the communication unit 12j receives information having the communication address set to itself as the transmission destination address.

  When the reception interrupt process is started, the CPU 12a first identifies whether or not the reception information is settlement information (Act 31). The received information includes a type code indicating the type of information. The CPU 12a identifies whether or not the received information is payment information by this type code. When the received information is other than the payment information (NO in Act 31), the CPU 12a executes information processing according to the type of the received information.

  When the received information is payment information (YES in Act 31), the CPU 12a checks the processing flag F (Act 32). Here, when the processing flag F is reset to “0” (NO in Act 32), that is, when the payment processing is not executed in the payment apparatus 12, the CPU 12a indicates that the payment information has been received. The process is notified (Act 33).

  On the other hand, when the processing flag F is set to “1” (YES in Act 32), that is, when the payment processing is being executed in the payment apparatus 12, the CPU 12a stores the transfer destination ID in the memory area 43. It is confirmed whether or not it is done (Act 34). When the transfer destination ID is not stored in the memory area 43 (NO in Act 34), the CPU 12a transmits an error response signal to the commodity registration device 11 arranged in the same checkout lane (Act 35).

  Specifically, the CPU 12a uses the communication address set in the merchandise registration apparatus 11 as the transmission destination address, the communication address set in itself as the transmission source address, and transmits the error response signal to the LAN 13 so as to transmit the error response signal to the LAN 13. To control. As a result, an error response signal is transmitted to the commodity registration apparatus 11 via the LAN 13.

  On the other hand, when the transfer destination ID is stored in the memory area 43 (YES in Act 34), the CPU 12a acquires the transfer destination ID from the memory area 43 (Act 36). Then, the CPU 12a transfers the payment information to the other one payment apparatus 12 identified by this transfer destination ID (Act 37: transfer means).

  Specifically, the CPU 12a receives the data via the LAN 13 with the communication address set for one settlement apparatus 12 identified by the transfer destination ID as the transmission destination address and the communication address set for itself as the transmission source address. The communication unit 12j is controlled so that the payment information is transmitted to the LAN 13 as it is. Thereby, payment information is transmitted to one payment apparatus 12 identified by the transfer destination ID via the LAN 13. As described above, the transfer destination ID is associated with the communication address set in the settlement apparatus 12. Alternatively, the transfer destination ID may be the communication address itself set in the settlement apparatus 12.

Returning to the description of FIG.
The CPU 12a that has finished the processes of Act21 and Act22 waits to receive payment information (Act23). When receiving the notification that the payment information has been received by the process of Act 33 of the reception interrupt process, the CPU 12a stores the payment information received by the communication unit 12j as the receiving means in the payment buffer 41 (Act 24: storage). means). Further, the CPU 12a sets the processing flag F to “1” (Act 25).

  Note that the processing procedure of Act 24 and Act 25 is not limited to the procedure shown in FIG. For example, the processing of Act 25 may be executed first, and the processing of Act 24 may be executed later.

  CPU12a which complete | finished the process of Act24 and Act25 transmits a receipt response signal with respect to the merchandise registration apparatus 11 arrange | positioned in the same checkout lane (Act26: notification means).

  Specifically, the CPU 12a uses the communication address set in the merchandise registration apparatus 11 as the transmission destination address, the communication address set in itself as the transmission source address, and transmits the reception response signal to the LAN 13 so as to transmit the reception response signal to the LAN 13. To control. As a result, a receipt response signal is transmitted to the commodity registration apparatus 11 via the LAN 13.

  Thereafter, the CPU 12a displays the settlement screen SC3 (see FIG. 11) on a part of the screen of the touch panel 12g (Act 27).

  An example of the settlement screen SC3 is shown in FIG. Settlement screen SC3 includes display areas R6 and R7 and buttons B6, B7 and B8. The display area R6 displays operation guidance for the shopper 22 who operates the settlement apparatus 12. The display area R7 displays the total number and total amount included in the payment information stored in the payment buffer 41. The button B6 is for the shopper 22 to specify that the payment method is cash. The button B7 is for the shopper 22 to specify that the payment method is electronic money. The button B8 is for the shopper 22 to specify that the clerk 21 is called. In the following description, the button B6 is referred to as a cash button B6, the button B7 is referred to as an electronic money button B7, and the button B8 is referred to as a clerk call button B8.

  The shopper 22 confirming the settlement screen SC3 decides whether to pay with cash or electronic money. And when paying with cash, the cash button B6 is touched and the cash more than the total amount is thrown into the automatic change machine 12e. On the other hand, when paying with electronic money, the electronic money button B7 is touched to cause the card reader / writer 12i to read the data of the electronic money card.

  The CPU 12a displaying the settlement screen SC3 waits for the cash button B6 or the electronic money button B7 to be touched (Act 28: accepting means). When the cash button B6 or the electronic money button B7 is touched, the CPU 12a executes a settlement process by the payment method selected by the touched button (Act29: settlement means). That is, when the cash button B6 is touched, the CPU 12a executes a settlement process for cash payment. When the electronic money button B7 is touched, the CPU 12a executes a settlement process for electronic money payment. Since these payment processes are well-known matters in the existing self-POS terminal, the description thereof is omitted here.

  The settlement method is not limited to cash or electronic money. For example, the settlement apparatus 12 can cope with a settlement method using a credit card or a gift certificate such as a gift certificate.

  When the settlement process ends, the CPU 12a executes a receipt issue process (Act30). That is, the CPU 12 a edits the receipt print data based on the payment information stored in the payment buffer 41. Then, the CPU 12a operates the printer 12h to issue a receipt. When the receipt is issued, the CPU 12a returns to the process of Act4. Then, the CPU 12a repeats the subsequent processing in the same manner as described above.

  As described above, in the checkout system 10 of the present embodiment, when the registration operation of the purchased product by the store clerk 21 is completed in the product registration device 11 and the store clerk 21 touches the transmission button B4 on the transmission screen SC2, the purchased product The payment information including the sales data is one payment device 12 identified by the transmission ID set in the memory area 33 among the plurality of payment devices 12 arranged in the same checkout lane as the product registration device 11. Sent to.

  Here, for convenience of explanation, as shown in FIG. 1, the number of payment devices arranged in the same checkout lane as the product registration device 11 is three, and each is denoted by reference numerals 12-1, 12-2, 12-3. Shall be identified. In addition, it is assumed that the transmission destination ID stored in the memory area 33 of the merchandise registration apparatus 11 identifies the settlement apparatus 12-1. In this case, the payment information is first transmitted to the payment apparatus 12-1.

  In the settlement apparatus 12-1, when the settlement process is not executed, that is, when the processing flag F is reset to “0”, the settlement information is stored in the settlement buffer 41 of the settlement apparatus 12-1. . In addition, a receipt response signal is transmitted from the settlement apparatus 12-1 to the commodity registration apparatus 11. As a result, a guidance screen SC4 is displayed on the touch panel 11g of the merchandise registration apparatus 11 to guide that the payment information transmission destination is the payment apparatus 12-1. Therefore, the clerk 21 tells the shopper 22 to make a payment with the payment device 12-1.

  The shopper 22 goes to the settlement apparatus 12-1. At this time, since the payment screen SC3 is displayed on the touch panel 12g of the payment apparatus 12-1, the shopper 22 makes a payment using cash, electronic money, or the like.

  On the other hand, when the payment process is executed in the payment apparatus 12-1, that is, when the processing flag F is set to "1", the transfer destination ID is stored in the memory area 43 of the payment apparatus 12-1. Processing is divided depending on whether or not is stored. Here, it is assumed that what identifies the settlement apparatus 12-2 is stored as the transfer destination ID. In this case, the memory area 43 of the settlement apparatus 12-2 stores what identifies the settlement apparatus 12-3 as a transfer destination ID. Further, the transfer area ID is not stored in the memory area 43 of the settlement apparatus 12-3.

  Since the transfer destination ID for identifying the settlement apparatus 12-2 is stored in the memory area 43 of the settlement apparatus 12-1, the settlement information transmitted from the commodity registration apparatus 11 to the settlement apparatus 12-1 is transmitted via the LAN 13. It is transferred to the settlement apparatus 12-2.

  When the payment process is not executed in the payment apparatus 12-2, that is, when the processing flag F is reset to “0”, the payment information is stored in the payment buffer 41 of the payment apparatus 12-2. . In addition, a receipt response signal is transmitted from the settlement apparatus 12-2 to the commodity registration apparatus 11. As a result, a guidance screen SC4 is displayed on the touch panel 11g of the merchandise registration apparatus 11 to guide that the payment information transmission destination is the payment apparatus 12-2. Therefore, the clerk 21 tells the shopper 22 to make a payment with the payment device 12-2.

  The shopper 22 goes to the settlement apparatus 12-2. At this time, since the payment screen SC3 is displayed on the touch panel 12g of the payment apparatus 12-2, the shopper 22 makes a payment using cash, electronic money, or the like.

  On the other hand, when the payment process is executed in the payment apparatus 12-2, that is, when the processing flag F is set to “1”, the transfer destination ID is stored in the memory area 43 of the payment apparatus 12-2. Processing is divided depending on whether or not is stored. Here, since the transfer destination ID for identifying the settlement apparatus 12-3 is set in the memory area 43, the settlement information transferred from the settlement apparatus 12-1 is further transferred to the settlement apparatus 12-3 via the LAN 13. Transferred.

  In the settlement apparatus 12-3, when the settlement process is not executed, that is, when the processing flag F is reset to “0”, the settlement information is stored in the settlement buffer 41 of the settlement apparatus 12-3. . In addition, a receipt response signal is transmitted from the settlement apparatus 12-3 to the product registration apparatus 11. As a result, a guidance screen SC4 is displayed on the touch panel 11g of the merchandise registration apparatus 11 to guide that the payment information transmission destination is the payment apparatus 12-3. Therefore, the clerk 21 tells the shopper 22 to make a payment with the payment device 12-3.

  The shopper 22 goes to the settlement apparatus 12-3. At this time, since the payment screen SC3 is displayed on the touch panel 12g of the payment device 12-3, the shopper 22 makes a payment using cash, electronic money, or the like.

  On the other hand, when the payment process is executed in the payment apparatus 12-3, that is, when the processing flag F is set to “1”, the transfer destination ID is stored in the memory area 43 of the payment apparatus 12-3. Processing is divided depending on whether or not is stored. Here, since the transfer destination ID is not stored in the memory area 43, an error response signal is transmitted from the settlement apparatus 12-3 to the commodity registration apparatus 11. As a result, the product registration apparatus 11 performs a transmission disable process. By this transmission disabling process, for example, the clerk 21 operates the merchandise registration apparatus 11 to process the settlement of the shopper 22.

  As described above, according to the checkout system 10 of the present embodiment, the merchandise registration apparatus 11 transmits the payment information to one payment apparatus 12 that is set in advance as a transmission destination regardless of the state of each payment apparatus 12. . Therefore, in order for the merchandise registration apparatus 11 to monitor the state of each payment apparatus 12, an information analysis function for collecting and analyzing state information (status) from the payment apparatus 12 is not required.

  Payment information transmitted from the merchandise registration device 11 to one payment device 12 is transferred to another payment device 12 set in advance as a transfer destination when the payment information cannot be processed by the payment device 12. Is done. Therefore, since the salesclerk 21 who operates the merchandise registration apparatus 11 does not have to search for a vacant payment apparatus 12, work efficiency of the salesclerk 21 can be improved. Further, there is no mistake that the store clerk mistakenly transmits the payment information to the payment device 12 that is not intended.

  In the present embodiment, the payment apparatus 12 to which the merchandise registration apparatus 11 transmits payment information is determined by the transmission destination ID stored in the memory area 33. Similarly, another settlement apparatus 12 to which the settlement apparatus 12 that cannot perform settlement processing transfers settlement information is determined by the transfer destination ID stored in the memory area 43. Therefore, the merchandise registration apparatus 11 preferentially transmits the payment information to which payment apparatus 12 depending on the setting of the transmission destination ID and the transfer destination ID stored in the memory areas 33 and 43, and in which route There is an advantage that it is possible to easily set and change the transfer between the settlement apparatuses 12.

The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment.
For example, in the above-described embodiment, the case where it is determined whether or not the payment processing of the received payment information is possible depending on whether or not the payment processing is being executed in the payment device 12. The determination element as to whether or not settlement processing is possible is not limited to this. For example, even when an error that hinders settlement such as no receipt sheet of the printer 12h has occurred, it can be determined that the settlement processing of the received settlement information is impossible.

  In the embodiment, one checkout lane is regarded as one unit, and the commodity registration apparatus 11 arranged in the lane transmits settlement information to one settlement apparatus 12 arranged in the same lane. And when the payment process was impossible with the payment apparatus 12, the case where the payment apparatus 12 transferred payment information to another payment apparatus 12 arrange | positioned in the same lane was shown. In this regard, as the transfer destination ID stored in the memory area 43 of the payment apparatus 12, for example, an identification for identifying the payment apparatus 12 installed in the adjacent checkout lane may be included. By doing so, even when all the payment devices 12 arranged in the same lane are blocked, if the payment devices 12 in the adjacent lanes are vacant, the payment device 12 can make a payment.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, in the payment apparatus 12 to which payment information is transferred last, the case where transfer destination ID was not stored in the memory area 43 was shown. In this regard, the transmission destination ID stored in the memory area 33 of the commodity registration apparatus 11 may be stored in the memory area 43 of the payment apparatus 12 to which payment information is transferred last. By doing so, even if all the payment devices 12 arranged in the same lane are temporarily blocked, it is possible to guide the shopper to the vacant payment device 12 when the payment of one shopper is completed. become.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, the case where guidance screen SC4 was displayed with respect to the salesclerk 21 in the merchandise registration apparatus 11 was shown. In this regard, for example, a display device for a shopper may be connected to the product registration apparatus 11 and a guidance screen SC4 may be displayed on the display device to guide the shopper 22. Alternatively, it is possible to notify the shopper 21 by voice of the settlement device 22 that performs settlement by using a notification means such as a voice synthesis means.

  In the above-described embodiment, the merchandise buying and selling act has been described as a transaction. However, the deal may not involve a merchandise buying and selling act. For example, the checkout system of the present invention can also be applied to transactions in which charges are incurred for providing services (services) such as facility usage fees and rental fees for rental listings.

In addition, although several embodiments have been described with respect to the present invention, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalents thereof.
Hereinafter, the invention described in the scope of claims of the present application will be appended.
[1] An input processing device and a plurality of payment devices are connected via a network, and the input processing device waits for input of data relating to the transaction, and sets payment information for the transaction based on the input data. Generating means for generating, and transmitting means for transmitting the payment information to the set one of the plurality of payment devices via the network, each payment device, Receiving means for receiving the payment information transmitted via the network; storage means for storing the payment information in a storage area when the payment information received by the receiving means is possible; and the reception A transfer means for transferring the payment information to another payment apparatus connected via the network when the payment processing of the payment information received by the means is impossible; Checkout system, characterized by comprising a means of payment, the for processing payment of the payment information.
[2] Each settlement apparatus further includes notification means for notifying the input processing apparatus that settlement processing is possible when settlement processing of the settlement information received by the receiving means is possible. The check according to [1], wherein the input processing device further comprises notification means for informing a shopper of information to the payment device that has notified that the payment processing is possible. Out system.
[3] Awaiting input of data related to a transaction, and based on the input data, a generation unit that generates settlement information for the transaction, and a set of a plurality of settlement devices connected via a network An input processing device having a transmission means for transmitting the payment information to one payment device, and a payment device constituting a checkout system for receiving the payment information transmitted via the network A means for storing the payment information received by the receiving means, a storage means for storing the payment information in a storage area, and a time for payment processing for the payment information received by the receiving means. A transfer means for transferring the payment information to another payment device connected via the network, and processing the payment of the payment information stored in the storage area. Settlement apparatus characterized by comprising a payment means.
[4] The supplementary note, further comprising notification means for notifying the input processing apparatus that the payment processing is possible when the payment processing of the payment information received by the receiving means is possible. [3] The settlement apparatus according to the above.
[5] A storage unit that stores the payment information in a storage area when the payment process of the payment information received by the receiving unit is possible, and a payment process that cannot be performed for the payment information received by the receiving unit. Transfer means for transferring information to another payment apparatus connected via a network, payment means for processing payment of the payment information stored in the storage area, and payment processing for the payment information received by the receiving means. An input processing device that constitutes a checkout system connected to a plurality of payment devices including a notification means for notifying that payment processing is possible when possible, and for inputting data relating to transactions And generating means for generating settlement information for the transaction based on the input data, and one set settlement among the plurality of settlement apparatuses And a transmission means for transmitting the payment information via the network, and a notification means for performing a notification for guiding the shopper to the payment apparatus that has notified that the payment processing is possible. An input processing device.
[6] Awaiting input of data related to a transaction, and based on the input data, a generating unit that generates settlement information for the transaction, and a plurality of settlement devices connected via a network are set Settlement comprising an input processing device and a checkout system having a transmission means for transmitting the payment information to one payment device, and a reception means for receiving the payment information transmitted via the network When payment processing of the payment information received by the receiving means is possible in the computer of the device, a function of storing the payment information in a storage area, and when payment processing of the payment information received by the receiving means is impossible A function of transferring the payment information to another payment apparatus connected via the network, and payment of the payment information stored in the storage area Control program for operating the process, the realization.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Checkout system, 11 ... Product registration apparatus, 11a ... CPU, 11b ... ROM, 11c ... RAM, 11d ... Auxiliary storage unit, 11e ... Drawer release unit, 11f ... Scanner, 11g ... Touch panel, 11h ... Printer, 11i ... Card reader / writer, 11j ... communication unit, 11k ... transmission system, 12 ... settlement device, 12a ... CPU, 12b ... ROM, 12c ... RAM, 12d ... auxiliary storage unit, 12e ... automatic change machine, 12f ... scanner, 12g ... touch panel , 12h ... printer, 12i ... card reader / writer, 12j ... communication unit, 12k ... transmission system, 31 ... registered product table, 32 ... total table, 33 ... memory area of destination ID, 41 ... settlement buffer, 42 ... processing Flag memory area, 43 ... of transfer destination ID Mori area.

Claims (6)

An input processing device and multiple payment devices are connected via a network.
The input processing device includes:
A transmitting means for transmitting information for requesting settlement of a transaction to one set settlement apparatus among the plurality of settlement apparatuses;
Comprising
The plurality of payment devices are:
Receiving means for receiving information for settlement of transactions via the network;
Notification means for receiving the information by the receiving means and notifying the input processing device that the payment processing is possible when the payment device is ready to execute the payment processing;
A transfer means for transferring the received information to another payment apparatus connected to the network when the information is received by the reception means but the payment apparatus cannot execute the payment processing;
A payment means for executing a payment process based on the information ;
A checkout system comprising: The checkout system according to claim 1, wherein the information for requesting settlement of the transaction is settlement information. A payment device that is connected to an input processing device and another payment device via a network to constitute a checkout system,
Receiving means for receiving information for settlement of transactions via the network;
Notification means for receiving the information by the receiving means and notifying the input processing device that the payment processing is possible when the payment device is ready to execute the payment processing;
A transfer means for transferring the received information to another payment apparatus connected to the network when the information is received by the reception means but the payment apparatus cannot execute the payment processing;
A payment means for executing a payment process based on the information ;
A settlement apparatus. 4. The settlement apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the information for requesting settlement of the transaction is settlement information. Storage means for receiving the information by the receiving means and storing the information in a storage area when the payment apparatus is ready to execute the payment processing;
Further comprising
  The settlement apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the settlement unit processes settlement based on the information stored in the storage area. A computer of a payment apparatus comprising a receiving means for connecting to an input processing apparatus and another payment apparatus via a network to constitute a checkout system and receiving information for requesting payment for a transaction via the network,
A function of receiving the information by the receiving means and notifying that the payment processing is possible to the input processing device when the payment device can execute the payment processing;
A function of transferring the received information to another payment apparatus connected to the network when the information is received by the receiving means but the payment apparatus cannot execute the payment process; and
A function of executing a payment process based on the information ;
Control program to realize.