JP7124158B2 - Checkout system, input processing device and its control program - Google Patents

Description

The embodiments of the present invention relate to an input processing device that constitutes a checkout system, and a control program that causes a computer to function as the input processing device.

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 device waits for input of data relating to product sales. Then, when data is input by the operator, the input processing device generates payment information based on the data, and transmits this payment information to the payment device. The settlement device waits for input of payment data for settlement information. Then, when the payment data is input by the operator, the payment device processes the payment based on the payment information and the payment data. Such a checkout system in which the input processing device and the settlement device are separated can adopt a so-called semi-self system in which the input processing device is operated by the store clerk and the settlement device is operated by the shopper.

In the case of adopting the semi-self system, we would like to minimize the situation where the shopper waits for the payment because the shopper takes time to operate the payment device. Therefore, conventionally, the number of settlement devices is greater than the number of input processing devices. In this case, the input processing device monitors the status of each payment device, automatically selects an available payment device, and transmits payment information to that payment device. display, and the clerk selects an available payment device and transmits the payment information to that payment device.

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

JP 2013-242839 A

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

In one embodiment, the checkout system comprises a network connection between an input processing device and a plurality of payment devices . The input processing device includes first display means, second display means, transmission means, and third display means . The first display means displays, on the display device, a registration screen showing information on the product for which purchase registration has been made, based on the input data. The second display means displays, on the display device, a transmission screen indicating transmission of payment information for the transaction of the product for which purchase registration has been made to one of the plurality of payment devices. The transmission means transmits the payment information to one of the plurality of payment devices through the network in accordance with the instruction on the transmission screen . The third display means displays, on the display device, a guidance screen for guiding the shopper to one of the plurality of payment devices that has received a notification that payment processing can be executed. Each settlement device comprises notification means and settlement means. The notification means notifies the input processing device that payment processing is possible when the payment device is in a state in which the payment processing of the payment information received via the network can be executed. The settlement means processes settlement of settlement information.

1 is a schematic diagram of a checkout system according to the present embodiment; FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing circuit configurations of main parts of a product registration device and a settlement device according to the present embodiment; FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing main memory areas formed in the RAM of the product registration device; FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing main memory areas formed in the RAM of the settlement device; 4 is a flowchart showing main steps of control processing executed by a CPU of the product registration device according to a control program; 4 is a flow chart showing main steps of main processing executed by the CPU of the product registration device according to the control program; FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a registration screen displayed on the touch panel of the product registration device; FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a transmission screen displayed on the touch panel of the product registration device; 4 is a flow chart showing main procedures of main processing executed by the CPU of the settlement apparatus according to the control program; 4 is a flow chart showing main procedures of reception interrupt processing executed by the CPU of the settlement apparatus according to the control program; FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a payment screen displayed on the touch panel of the payment registration device; FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a guidance screen displayed on the touch panel of the product registration device;

An embodiment of a checkout system in which the input processing device does not need to collect status information of each payment device will be described below with reference to the drawings.
This embodiment exemplifies a semi-self checkout system built in a store such as a mass retailer. In this system, a store clerk operates a product registration device, which is one aspect of an input processing device, and a shopper operates a settlement device.

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

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

The product registration device 11 is operated by a store clerk 21 who plays a role called a checker. The settlement device 12 is operated by a shopper 22 who purchases a product sold at the store. Note that the payment device 12 may be operated by the store clerk 21 in some cases.

The product registration device 11 is attached to the work table 23 in FIG. The work table 23 has a rectangular top plate. A passage (checkout lane) for shoppers 22 is formed by arranging a plurality of work tables 23 such that the longitudinal directions of the top plates are substantially parallel.

The product registration device 11 has functions of registration processing of purchased products, generation of payment information, payment processing, and transmission of payment information to the payment device 12 . The registration process is a process of registering the product brought by the shopper 22 who has entered the aisle as a purchased product. Settlement processing is processing for settling a transaction, which is an act of buying and selling products. Payment information is information necessary for payment processing.

When payment information is received from the product registration device 11, the payment device 12 performs payment processing based on the payment information.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the essential circuit configurations of the product registration device 11 and the settlement device 12. As shown in FIG. Both the product registration device 11 and the payment device 12 are connected to a LAN (local area network) 13, which is a network. The network can also use another communication network such as the Internet or a wireless LAN instead of the LAN 13 . Alternatively, information may be exchanged between the product registration device 11 and the settlement device 12 via a server.

The product registration device 11 includes a CPU (central processing unit) 11a, a ROM (read-only memory) 11b, a RAM (random-access memory) 11c, an auxiliary storage unit 11d, a drawer opening unit 11e, a scanner 11f, 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 form a computer.
The CPU 11a corresponds to the central portion of the computer. The CPU 11a controls each part to realize various functions of the product registration device 11 based on the operating system, middleware, and application programs stored in the ROM 11b and RAM 11c.

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

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

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

The application programs stored in the ROM 11b or the auxiliary storage unit 11d include control programs describing control processing to be described later. The transfer of the product registration device 11 is generally performed with the control program stored in the ROM 11b or the auxiliary storage unit 11d. However, the product registration device 11 may be transferred without the control program stored in the ROM 11b or the auxiliary storage unit 11d. In this case, the control program is recorded on a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, magneto-optical disk, optical disk, semiconductor memory, or the like and transferred. Alternatively, the control program may be transferred via a network, and this control program may be written in the auxiliary storage unit 11d of the product registration device 11 separately transferred.

The drawer opening unit 11e automatically opens a drawer for storing money. The scanner 11f reads the product information and obtains the product code of the product. As the scanner 11f, various known types can be used as they are. The scanner 11f may be compatible with only one of various known types, or may be compatible with a plurality of types. That is, scanner 11f may include a fixed or handheld two-dimensional code scanner. Further, the scanner 11f may include a type that identifies products from product images using image recognition technology.

The touch panel 11g includes a display device and a touch sensor. The display device has a display screen of any screen such as a GUI screen. A well-known device such as a color LCD can be used as the display device. The touch sensor is arranged over the display surface of the display device. The touch sensor detects the operator's touch position on the display surface of the display device, and sends the position information to the CPU 11a. A well-known device can be used as the touch sensor.

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

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

The communication unit 11j performs data communication with a plurality of settlement devices 12 connected via the LAN13. The communication unit 11j can also perform data communication with another product registration device 11 via the LAN 13. FIG.

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 connecting these buses and various units can be used.

As hardware for such a product registration device 11, for example, a POS terminal compatible with an existing face-to-face sales system can be used.

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

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

The CPU 12a corresponds to the central portion of the computer. Based on the operating system, middleware, and application programs stored in the ROM 12b and RAM 12c, the CPU 12a controls each section to realize various operations of the settlement apparatus 12. FIG.

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

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

The auxiliary memory unit 12d corresponds to the auxiliary memory portion of the computer. The auxiliary storage unit 12d stores data used by the CPU 12a in performing various processes or data generated by the processes performed by the CPU 12a. An EEPROM, HDD, or SSD, for example, can be used as the auxiliary storage unit 12d.

The application programs stored in the ROM 12b or the auxiliary storage unit 12d include control programs describing control processing to be described later. The transfer of payment device 12 is generally performed with the control program stored in ROM 12b or auxiliary storage unit 12d. However, the settlement apparatus 12 may be transferred without the control program stored in the ROM 12b or the auxiliary storage unit 12d. In this case, the control program is recorded on a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, magneto-optical disk, optical disk, semiconductor memory, or the like and transferred. Alternatively, the control program may be transferred via a network, and this control program may be written in the auxiliary storage unit 12d of the separately transferred settlement apparatus 12 described above.

The automatic change dispenser 12e receives inserted coins and bills. Also, the automatic change dispenser 12e ejects coins and banknotes as change.

The scanner 12f reads the product information and obtains the product code of the product. As the scanner 12f, various known types can be used as they are. The scanner 12f may be compatible with only one of various known types, or may be compatible with multiple types. That is, scanner 12f may include a fixed or handheld two-dimensional code scanner. Further, the scanner 12f may include a type that identifies products from product images using image recognition technology.

The touch panel 12g includes a display device and a touch sensor. The screen of the display device is an arbitrary screen such as a GUI screen. A well-known device such as a color LCD can be used as the display device. The touch sensor is arranged over the display surface of the display device. The touch sensor detects the operator's touch position on the display surface of the display device and sends the position information to the CPU 12a. A well-known device can be used as the touch sensor.

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

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

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

The transmission system 12k transmits data exchanged among the CPU 12a, ROM 12b, RAM 12c, auxiliary storage unit 12d, automatic change dispenser 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 connecting these buses and each unit can be used.

As the hardware of such a settlement device 12, for example, an existing POS terminal compatible with the self-service system can be used.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing main memory areas formed in the RAM 11c of the product registration device 11. As shown in FIG. In FIG. 3, the memory area 31 is an area for storing a plurality of records each of which includes product code, product name, unit price, quantity, and price. A product code is a unique code for individually identifying each product. Each product has a product code represented by, for example, a bar code. The product name and unit price are the product name and price per item specified by the product code of the same record. The quantity and price are the sales data of the product specified by the product code of the same record, that is, the number of products sold and the sales price for that quantity.

The checkout system 10 is connected to a database server via a 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 obtained in the product registration device 11, the CPU 11a inquires about the product information to the database server using the product code. The database server that receives this inquiry accesses the product database, reads product information associated with the product code from the product database, and notifies the product registration device 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 . The memory area 31 is hereinafter referred to as a registered product table 31 .

The memory area 32 is an area for storing the total number of items and the total amount of money. The total number is the total number of items indicated in each record stored in the registered product table 31 . The total amount is the total amount indicated in each record stored in the registered product table 31 . The memory area 32 is hereinafter referred to as a total table 32 .

The memory area 33 is an area for storing a destination ID for specifying the settlement device 12 to which settlement information is to be transmitted. The product registration device 11 transmits payment information generated based on the registration processing of the purchased product to the payment device 12 via the LAN 13 . At this time, the product registration device 11 transmits the settlement information via the LAN 13 to one preset settlement device 12 . Specifically, the product registration device 11 transmits the payment information to one payment device 12 selected from a plurality of payment devices 12 (three in FIG. 1) arranged in the same checkout lane. do. That is, in the memory area 33, an ID for identifying the determined single payment apparatus 12 is stored as a destination ID.

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

A memory area 42 is an area for the in-process flag F. FIG. The in-process flag F is information for identifying whether or not payment processing based on payment information is being executed. In this embodiment, the in-process flag F is reset to "0" when payment information is not being executed, and is set to "1" when it is being executed.

The memory area 43 is an area for storing a transfer destination ID for specifying another payment device 12 to which payment information is transferred. While the payment apparatus 12 is executing payment processing based on the payment information stored in the payment buffer 41, the payment device 12 cannot perform payment processing even if it receives other payment information. 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 settlement device 12 transmits the settlement information to the other settlement device 12 preset from among the plurality of settlement devices 12 (three in FIG. 1) arranged in the same checkout lane. transfer. That is, in the memory area 43, an ID for identifying the other set settlement apparatus 12 is stored as a transfer destination ID.

Note that the transfer destination ID is not stored in the memory area 43 of the payment apparatus 12 to which the payment information is transferred last among the plurality of payment apparatuses 12 arranged in the same checkout lane. Alternatively, information indicating that the forwarding destination ID has not been set is stored. A communication address of the product 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 product registration device 11 according to the control program. 7, 8 and 12 are schematic diagrams showing various screen examples displayed on the touch panel 11g of the product registration device 11 by the main process. FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing main procedures of main processing executed by the CPU 12a of the settlement apparatus 12 according to the control program, and FIG. It is a flow chart showing a procedure. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a settlement screen displayed on the touch panel 12g of the settlement device 12 by the main processing. The operation of the checkout system 10 will be described below with reference to these figures. Note that the contents of the processing described below are only examples, and various processing that can obtain similar results can be used as appropriate.

First, the operation of the product registration device 11 will be described.
When the product registration device 11 is activated in a mode for registering purchased products, the CPU 11a starts the control process shown in the flow chart of FIG. First, the CPU 11a clears the registered product table 31 and the total table 32 (Act 1). Next, the CPU 11a causes the registration screen SC1 (see FIG. 7) to be displayed on part of the screen of the touch panel 11g (Act2).

The registration screen SC1 displays the contents of the registered product table 31a and the total table 32a, and allows the store clerk 21 to confirm the implementation status of the registration process. An example of the registration screen SC1 is shown in FIG. The registration screen SC1 includes display areas R1 and R2. The display area R1 displays the product name, quantity and unit price of the product most recently registered for purchase, as well as the total quantity and total price of the purchased product after the registration of the product. The display area R2 displays a list of product names, quantities, unit prices, and amounts of products registered for purchase prior to the product displayed on the registration screen SC1.

Although not shown, the CPU 11a displays various function buttons such as a product button for the store clerk 21 to specify a product and a subtotal button outside the area of the screen of the touch panel 11g that serves as the registration screen SC1. do.

While the registration screen SC1 is displayed, the store clerk 21 sequentially inputs the product codes of the products that the shopper 22 purchases by, for example, operating the scanner 11f and product buttons. When the product codes of all purchased products have been entered, the store clerk 21 touches the subtotal button.

After displaying the registration screen SC1, the CPU 11a waits for 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 associated with the product code and set in the product database. do. The CPU 11a multiplies the unit price by the number of sales to calculate the sales amount. Then, the CPU 11a registers the product sales data including the product code, product name, unit price, sales quantity and sales amount as one record in the registered product table 31a (Act 4). In addition, the CPU 11a adds the sales quantity and the sales amount to the total table 32a. Then, the CPU 11a updates the registration screen SC1 according to the contents of the registered product table 31a and the total table 32a (Act 5).

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 confirms whether or not the subtotal button has been touched (Act 7). If the subtotal button has not been touched (NO in Act 7), the CPU 11a checks again whether or not the product code has been acquired (Act 6). Therefore, in Act6 and Act7, the CPU 11a waits for the product code to be acquired or the subtotal button to be touched. It should be noted that the CPU 11a may confirm the occurrence of another event such as another operation being performed during the standby here, and shift to processing according to the occurrence event.

In the standby state of Act6 and Act7, when the product code is acquired (YES in Act6), the CPU 11a returns to the process of Act4. Then, the CPU 11a repeats subsequent processing in the same manner as described above.

In the standby state of Act6 and Act7, if the subtotal button is touched (YES in Act7), the CPU 11a generates payment 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 causes the transmission screen SC2 (see FIG. 8) to be displayed on part of the screen of the touch panel 11g (Act9).

An example of the transmission screen SC2 is shown in FIG. Send 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 money in the total table 32a. Display area R4 displays various messages. Buttons B1 and B2 are for the store clerk 21 to specify that a discount should be applied to the total amount. The button B3 is for the store clerk 21 to specify to return a partial area of the screen of the touch panel 11g to the registration screen SC1. The button B4 is for the store clerk 21 to specify that the payment information should be sent to the payment device 12 . In the following description, button B3 will be referred to as return button B3, and button B4 will be referred to as send button B4.

When the transmission screen SC2 is displayed, the CPU 11a confirms whether or not the return button B3 has been operated (Act 10). If the return button B3 has not been operated (NO in Act10), the CPU 11a confirms whether or not the send button B4 has been operated (Act11). If the send button B4 has not been operated (NO in Act11), the CPU 11a checks again whether the return button B3 has been operated (Act10). Therefore, the CPU 11a waits for the return button B3 or the send button B4 to be operated in Act10 and Act11. Note that the CPU 11a may confirm the occurrence of another event such as another operation being performed in this standby state, and shift to a process corresponding 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 payment information in accordance with subsequent instructions from the store clerk 21. FIG.

In the standby state of Act10 and Act11, when the return button B3 is operated (YES in Act10), the CPU 11a returns the partial area of the screen of the touch panel 11g to the registration screen SC1 (Act12). After that, the CPU 11a proceeds to the processing of Act 6, and repeats the subsequent processing in the same manner as described above.

In the standby state of Act10 and Act11, when the send button B4 is operated (YES in Act11), the CPU 11a proceeds to the processing of Act13 in FIG. That is, the CPU 11a acquires the destination ID set in the memory area 33 (Act 13). Then, the CPU 11a transmits the settlement information generated by the processing of Act 8 to one settlement device 12 identified by this transmission destination ID (Act 14: transmitting means).

Specifically, the CPU 11a sends the payment information to the LAN 13 using the communication address set in one settlement device 12 identified by the destination ID as the destination address and the communication address set for itself as the source address. Control the communication unit 11j to transmit. Thereby, the payment information is transmitted to one payment device 12 identified by the destination ID via the LAN 13 . In this way, the destination ID is associated with the communication address set in the settlement device 12 . Alternatively, the destination ID may be the communication address set in the settlement device 12 itself.

The settlement information transmitted via the LAN 13 is received by the settlement device 12 whose transmission destination address matches the communication address. The payment apparatus 12 that has received the payment information can specify 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 payment information, the CPU 11a waits for a response signal from the payment device 12 (Act 15). As will be described later, the settlement device 12 that has received the settlement information may return an acknowledgment signal or an error response signal to the product registration device 11 . When the CPU 11a receives the response signal via the communication unit 11j (YES in Act 15), it identifies whether the response signal is a reception response or an error response (Act 16). In the case of a receipt response (YES in Act16), the CPU 11a displays the guidance screen SC4 (see FIG. 12) on a part of the screen of the touch panel 11g (Act17: notification means).

The guidance screen SC4 is for allowing the store clerk 21 to confirm the settlement device 12 to which the settlement information is transmitted. An example of the guidance screen SC4 is shown in FIG. Guidance screen SC4 includes display area R5 and button B5. The display area R5 displays a message together with the total number and total amount of money in the total table 32a. The message makes the store clerk 21 recognize the settlement device 12 to which the settlement information is transmitted, for example, "Please make a settlement with the settlement device B." Note that the content of the message is not particularly limited. For example, it may be "transmitted to payment device B", or simply "payment device B" or "B". The button B5 is for the store clerk 21 to specify to close the guidance screen SC4. When this button B5 is operated, the CPU 11a closes the guide screen SC4 and ends the information processing for one transaction. Thereafter, the CPU 11 resumes processing from Act1.

On the other hand, if the response signal is not a reception response but an error response (NO in Act 16), the CPU 11a executes transmission disapproval processing (Act 18). The transmission prohibition process is, for example, a process of notifying the store clerk 21 that the payment information transmitted in the process of Act 14 was not stored in all the payment devices 12 arranged in the same checkout lane. Furthermore, for example, it includes notifying the store clerk 21 that the product registration device 11 will perform payment processing for the payment information, and executing the payment processing. Note that the transmission disabling process is not limited to the payment process executed by the product registration device 11 . For example, a payment device shared by each checkout lane may be installed at the service counter of the store, and the payment information that cannot be transmitted to the payment device may be transmitted via the LAN 13 .

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

After receiving a receipt response signal from the payment device 12 and confirming the guidance screen SC4 displayed on the touch panel 11g, the clerk 21 informs the shopper 22 that payment should be made with the payment device 12 guided by the guidance screen SC4. Notice. The shopper 22 who received this notification moves to the payment device 12 and performs an operation for payment.

Therefore, next, the operation of the settlement device 12 will be described.
When the settlement device 12 is activated, the CPU 12a starts the main processing of the procedure shown in the flow chart of FIG. First, the CPU 12a initializes the in-process flag F of the memory area 42 to "0" (Act 21). The CPU 12a also sets the screen of the touch panel 12g as a standby screen (Act 22). The standby screen indicates that the settlement process is not in progress, and any information may be displayed. For example, it is assumed that the standby screen displays a message indicating that payment processing cannot be performed, or displays an arbitrary image representing an advertisement as a screen saver.

The processing procedures of Act21 and Act22 are not limited to those shown in FIG. For example, the process of Act22 may be executed first, and then the process of Act21 may be executed.

On the other hand, the CPU 12a that has 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 with 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 received information is payment information (Act 31). The received information includes a type code representing the type of information. The CPU 12a identifies whether or not the received information is payment information based on this type code. If the received information is other than payment information (NO in Act 31), the CPU 12a executes information processing according to the type of the received information.

If the received information is payment information (YES in Act 31), the CPU 12a checks the in-process flag F (Act 32). Here, when the processing flag F is reset to "0" (NO in Act 32), that is, when the settlement apparatus 12 is not executing the settlement process, the CPU 12a receives the settlement information. Notify the process (Act 33).

On the other hand, if the in-process flag F is set to "1" (YES in Act 32), that is, when the payment processing is being executed by the payment device 12, the CPU 12a stores the transfer destination ID in the memory area 43. It is confirmed whether or not it is set (Act 34). If 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 product registration device 11 arranged in the same checkout lane (Act 35).

Specifically, the CPU 12a sets the communication address set in the product registration device 11 as the transmission destination address, sets the communication address set for itself as the transmission source address, and causes the communication unit 12j to transmit the error response signal to the LAN 13. to control. As a result, an error response signal is transmitted to the product registration device 11 via the LAN 13 .

On the other hand, if 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 another payment device 12 identified by this transfer destination ID (Act 37: transferring means).

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

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

Note that the processing procedures of Act24 and Act25 are not limited to those shown in FIG. For example, the process of Act25 may be executed first, and then the process of Act24 may be executed.

After completing Act24 and Act25, the CPU 12a transmits an acknowledgment signal to the product registration device 11 located in the same checkout lane (Act26: notification means).

Specifically, the CPU 12a sets the communication address set in the product registration device 11 as the transmission destination address and the communication address set for itself as the transmission source address, and causes the communication unit 12j to transmit the receipt response signal to the LAN 13. to control. As a result, an acknowledgment signal is transmitted to the product registration device 11 via the LAN 13 .

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

An example of the payment screen SC3 is shown in FIG. The payment 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 payment device 12. FIG. The display area R7 displays the total number and total price included in the payment information stored in the payment buffer 41. FIG. 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 to call the store clerk 21 . In the following description, the button B6 is called the cash button B6, the button B7 is called the electronic money button B7, and the button B8 is called the clerk call button B8.

After confirming the payment screen SC3, the shopper 22 decides whether to pay in cash or electronic money. When paying in cash, the cash button B6 is touched, and cash equal to or greater than the total amount is thrown into the automatic change dispenser 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 that displays the settlement screen SC3 waits for the cash button B6 or the electronic money button B7 to be touched (Act 28: accepting means). Then, when the cash button B6 or the electronic money button B7 is touched, the CPU 12a executes the 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 settlement processing for cash payment. When the electronic money button B7 is touched, the CPU 12a executes settlement processing for electronic money payment. These settlement processes are well known in the existing self-POS terminals, so descriptions thereof will be omitted here.

Note that the settlement method is not limited to cash or electronic money. For example, the settlement device 12 can also handle settlement methods using cash vouchers such as credit cards and gift certificates.

When the settlement process is completed, the CPU 12a executes receipt issuing process (Act 30). That is, the CPU 12 a edits the receipt print data based on the payment information stored in the payment buffer 41 . The CPU 12a then operates the printer 12h to issue a receipt. When the receipt is issued, the CPU 12a returns to the processing of Act4. Then, the CPU 12a repeats subsequent processing in the same manner as described above.

As described above, in the checkout system 10 of the present embodiment, when the store clerk 21 finishes registering the purchased product in the product registration device 11 and touches the send button B4 on the send screen SC2, the purchased product is displayed. is 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 assumed to be three, and each of them is denoted by reference numeral 12-1, 12-2, 12-3. shall be identified by Also, it is assumed that the destination ID stored in the memory area 33 of the product registration device 11 identifies the settlement device 12-1. In this case, the payment information is first transmitted to the payment device 12-1.

When settlement processing is not executed in the settlement device 12-1, that is, when the in-processing flag F is reset to "0", settlement information is stored in the settlement buffer 41 of the settlement device 12-1. . Also, a receipt response signal is transmitted from the settlement device 12-1 to the commodity registration device 11. FIG. As a result, on the touch panel 11g of the product registration device 11, a guidance screen SC4 is displayed to guide that the destination of the payment information is the payment device 12-1. Then, the store clerk 21 tells the shopper 22 to make a payment with the payment device 12-1.

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

On the other hand, when settlement processing is being executed in the settlement device 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 settlement device 12-1. The processing is divided depending on whether or not is stored. Here, it is assumed that an ID for identifying the settlement apparatus 12-2 is stored as the forwarding destination ID. In this case, the memory area 43 of the settlement device 12-2 stores the transfer destination ID that identifies the settlement device 12-3. Also, the transfer destination ID is not stored in the memory area 43 of the settlement device 12-3.

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

When settlement processing is not executed in the settlement device 12-2, that is, when the in-processing flag F is reset to "0", settlement information is stored in the settlement buffer 41 of the settlement device 12-2. . Also, a receipt response signal is transmitted from the settlement device 12-2 to the commodity registration device 11. FIG. As a result, on the touch panel 11g of the product registration device 11, a guidance screen SC4 is displayed to guide that the destination of the payment information is the payment device 12-2. Then, the store clerk 21 tells the shopper 22 to make a payment with the payment device 12-2.

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

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

When settlement processing is not executed in the settlement device 12-3, that is, when the in-process flag F is reset to "0", settlement information is stored in the settlement buffer 41 of the settlement device 12-3. . Also, a receipt response signal is transmitted from the settlement device 12-3 to the product registration device 11. FIG. As a result, on the touch panel 11g of the product registration device 11, a guidance screen SC4 is displayed to guide that the destination of the payment information is the payment device 12-3. Then, the store clerk 21 tells the shopper 22 to make a payment with the payment device 12-3.

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

On the other hand, when settlement processing is being executed in the settlement device 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 settlement device 12-3. The 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 device 12-3 to the product registration device 11. FIG. As a result, the product registration device 11 executes a transmission prohibition process. For example, the store clerk 21 operates the commodity registration device 11 to process the settlement of the shopper 22 by this transmission prohibition process.

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

The payment information transmitted from the product 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 processing of the payment information is impossible in the payment device 12. be done. Therefore, the clerk 21 who operates the product registration device 11 does not have to search for an available settlement device 12, so that the working efficiency of the clerk 21 can be improved. In addition, the mistake of the store clerk erroneously transmitting payment information to an unintended payment device 12 is eliminated.

In this embodiment, the settlement device 12 to which the product registration device 11 transmits settlement information is determined by the transmission destination ID stored in the memory area 33 . Similarly, another payment apparatus 12 to which the payment apparatus 12 incapable of payment processing transfers payment information is determined by the transfer destination ID stored in the memory area 43 . Therefore, depending on the settings of the destination ID and transfer destination ID stored in the memory areas 33 and 43, respectively, the product registration device 11 preferentially transmits the settlement information to which settlement device 12, and by what route. There is an advantage that settings such as transfer between settlement devices 12 can be easily set and changed.

In addition, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment.
For example, in the above-described embodiment, it is determined whether or not the settlement processing of the received settlement information is possible depending on whether or not the settlement device 12 is executing the settlement processing. The determination element of whether or not settlement processing is possible is not limited to this. For example, even if there is an error that hinders settlement, such as when there is no receipt paper for the printer 12h, it can be determined that the settlement process of the received settlement information is impossible.

In the above embodiment, one checkout lane is one unit, and the product registration device 11 arranged in that lane transmits payment information to one payment device 12 arranged in the same lane. Then, a case is shown in which, when the settlement device 12 is unable to perform settlement processing, the settlement device 12 transfers the settlement information to another settlement device 12 arranged in the same lane. In this regard, the transfer destination ID stored in the memory area 43 of the payment device 12 may include, for example, an ID that identifies the payment device 12 installed in the adjacent checkout lane. By doing so, even when all the payment devices 12 arranged in the same lane are occupied, the payment can be made by the payment device 12 if the payment device 12 in the adjacent lane is vacant.

Further, in the above embodiment, the transfer destination ID is not stored in the memory area 43 in the payment device 12 to which the payment information is transferred last. Regarding this point, the destination ID stored in the memory area 33 of the product registration apparatus 11 may be stored in the memory area 43 of the payment apparatus 12 to which the payment information is finally transferred. By doing so, even if all the settlement devices 12 arranged in the same lane are temporarily occupied, the shopper can be guided to the empty settlement device 12 when the settlement of one shopper is completed. become.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the guide screen SC4 is displayed to the store clerk 21 in the product registration device 11 is shown. In this respect, for example, a display device for the shopper may be connected to the product registration device 11, and guidance may be given to the shopper 22 by displaying the guidance screen SC4 on this display device. Alternatively, it is also possible to notify the shopper 21 of the settlement device 22 for settlement by voice using notification means such as voice synthesis means.

In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the transaction was described as the transaction, but the transaction may not be accompanied by the transaction. For example, the checkout system of the present invention can also be applied to transactions in which fees are charged for the provision of services, such as facility usage fees and rental fees for rental items.

Additionally, although several embodiments have been described with respect to the present invention, these embodiments are provided by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and modifications 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 scope of the invention described in the claims and equivalents thereof.
The invention described in the original claims of the present application is appended below.
[1] An input processing device and a plurality of settlement devices are connected by a network, and the input processing device waits for input of data related to transactions, and based on the input data, calculates settlement information for the transactions. generating means for generating and transmitting means for transmitting the payment information via the network to one of the plurality of payment devices set, wherein 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 payment processing for the payment information received by the receiving means is possible; transfer means for transferring the payment information to another payment device connected to the network when payment processing of the payment information received by means is impossible; A checkout system comprising: a payment means to be processed;
[2] Each of the payment devices further comprises notification means for notifying the input processing device that payment processing is possible when the payment processing of the payment information received by the reception means is possible. , the input processing device further comprises notification means for guiding the shopper to the payment device that has notified that the payment processing is possible. out system.
[3] generation means for waiting for input of data related to a transaction and generating settlement information for the transaction based on the input data; 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, the reception receiving the payment information transmitted via the network storage means for storing the payment information in a storage area when payment processing of the payment information received by the reception means is possible; and when payment processing of the payment information received by the reception means is impossible. , transfer means for transferring the payment information to another payment device connected to the network, and payment means for processing the payment of the payment information stored in the storage area. Device. [4] A supplementary note characterized by further comprising notifying means for notifying said input processing device that payment processing is possible when said payment information received by said receiving means is ready for payment processing. [3] The settlement device described.
[5] storage means for storing the payment information in a storage area when payment processing of the payment information received by the reception means is possible; and payment processing when the payment information received by the reception means is not possible; Transfer means for transferring information to another payment device connected via a network, payment means for processing payment of the payment information stored in the storage area, and payment processing of the payment information received by the reception means. An input processing device constituting a checkout system connected to a plurality of settlement devices via a network and having notification means for notifying that settlement processing is possible when possible, and inputting data related to transactions. and generating means for generating payment information for the transaction based on the input data; and sending the payment information to one of the plurality of payment devices through the network. and a notification means for guiding the shopper to the settlement device that has notified that the settlement process is possible.
[6] generating means for waiting for input of data related to a transaction and generating settlement information for the transaction based on the input data; An input processing device comprising a transmission means for transmitting the payment information to one payment device and a checkout system, and a payment comprising a receiving means for receiving the payment information transmitted via the network. The computer of the device has a function of storing the payment information in a storage area when the payment processing of the payment information received by the receiving means is possible, and when the payment processing of the payment information received by the reception means is impossible. , a control program for realizing a function of transferring the payment information to another payment device connected to the network, and a function of processing the payment of the payment information stored in the storage area.

10 Checkout system 11 Product registration device 11a CPU 11b ROM 11c RAM 11d Auxiliary storage unit 11e Drawer opening unit 11f Scanner 11g Touch panel 11h Printer 11i Card reader/writer 11j Communication unit 11k Transmission system 12 Payment device 12a CPU 12b ROM 12c RAM 12d Auxiliary storage unit 12e Automatic change dispenser 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 for destination ID, 41... Settlement buffer, 42... Processing A memory area for flags, 43... A memory area for transfer destination IDs.

Claims (6)

An input processing device and a plurality of payment devices are connected via a network,
The input processing device is
a first display means for displaying, on a display device, a registration screen showing information of a product for which purchase registration has been made, based on the input data;
a second display means for displaying, on the display device, a transmission screen for instructing transmission of payment information for the transaction of the product for which purchase registration has been made to the payment device;
a transmission means for transmitting the payment information to one of the plurality of payment devices through the network in response to an instruction through the transmission screen;
third display means for displaying, on the display device, a guide screen for guiding the shopper to one of the plurality of payment devices that has received a notification that the payment processing of the payment information can be executed;
and
Each payment device is
notification means for notifying the input processing device that payment processing is possible when the payment device is in a state where the payment processing can be executed for the payment information received via the network;
a payment means for processing the payment of the payment information;
A checkout system with Notification means for notifying that transmission of the payment information is impossible when receiving a notification that the payment processing cannot be executed from one payment device other than the set payment device among the plurality of payment devices. ,
The checkout system of Claim 1, further comprising: An input processing device connected to a plurality of payment devices via a network,
a first display means for displaying, on a display device, a registration screen showing information of a product for which purchase registration has been made, based on the input data;
a second display means for displaying, on the display device, a transmission screen for instructing transmission of payment information for the transaction of the product for which purchase registration has been made to the payment device;
a transmission means for transmitting the payment information to one of the plurality of payment devices through the network in response to an instruction through the transmission screen;
third display means for displaying, on the display device, a guide screen for guiding the shopper to one of the plurality of payment devices that has received a notification that the payment processing of the payment information can be executed;
An input processor, comprising: Notification means for notifying that transmission of the payment information is impossible when receiving a notification that the payment processing cannot be executed from one payment device other than the set payment device among the plurality of payment devices. ,
4. The input processing device of claim 3, further comprising: The computer of the input processing device connected to multiple payment devices via a network,
a first display means for displaying on a display device a registration screen showing information of a product whose purchase has been registered, based on the input data;
second display means for displaying, on the display device, a transmission screen for instructing transmission of payment information for the transaction of the product for which purchase registration has been made to the payment device;
transmission means for transmitting the payment information to one of the plurality of payment devices through the network in response to an instruction via the transmission screen;
third display means for displaying, on the display device, a guide screen for guiding the shopper to one of the plurality of payment devices that has received a notification that payment processing can be executed for the payment information;
A control program for functioning as the computer of the input processing device,
Notification means for notifying that transmission of the payment information is impossible when receiving a notification that the payment processing cannot be executed from one payment device other than the set payment device among the plurality of payment devices. ,
6. The control program according to claim 5, further functioning as a

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