JP7434433B2 - Payment device and payment program - Google Patents

Description

Embodiments of the present invention relate to a payment device and a payment program for causing a computer to function as the payment device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Payment devices that process payments for transactions or service provision, that is, amounts paid by buyers to sellers, include a type that is operated by a person who is not a clerk, such as a shopper or a facility user. Furthermore, this type of payment device includes a self-service system in which the payer performs even the registration necessary to calculate the price, and a semi-self-system in which the registration is performed by a store clerk.

When paying in cash using a self-service or semi-self-service payment device, the user first selects cash as the payment method. Next, the settler inserts cash into the cash slot. As a result, when the amount of cash exceeds the price, the payment ends. At that time, if change is generated, the change is paid out from the change payout port, and the user collects the change.

By the way, in addition to cash, electronic money, credit cards, etc. can generally be used as payment methods. Therefore, in self- or semi-self payment devices, a first screen is displayed on the touch panel for allowing the payer to select one of the payment methods. For example, button images corresponding to each payment method are displayed on the first screen, so the settler touches the button image corresponding to the desired payment method. Then, the touch panel screen switches to a second screen for accepting input of payment data by the selected payment means.

Here, assuming that there is a settler who has selected one of the payment methods but wants to change to another payment method, the second screen has a screen for accepting instructions to return to the first screen. The "Back" button is displayed. For this reason, some settlers take advantage of the fact that if they select cash as their payment method and press the "back" button after inserting less cash than the amount paid, the cash they inserted will be returned from the change outlet, and they leave without paying the amount. There is. In this type of fraud, the act of the settler is similar to the act of legitimately paying the price in cash and collecting change, so there is a possibility that the clerk may overlook the fraud.

JP2017-58744A

The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention relates to a payment device and a payment program that can prevent fraud by a payer who leaves without payment.

In one embodiment, the payment device includes a first reception means, a second reception means, a payment means, and a return means. The first receiving means sends the payment to one payment method from at least two payment methods: a second payment method in which fraud may occur by leaving the payment unpaid, and a first payment method other than the second payment method. Display on the display device a payment method selection screen for accepting a declaration of payment. The second reception means is a screen for accepting input of payment data using the first payment means when a declaration to pay the price using the first payment means is received via the payment means selection screen. Display on the display device a first reception screen with a back button to be operated when canceling the operation and returning to the previous screen, and declare that the payment will be made using the second payment method via the payment method selection screen. If accepted , the second reception screen, which is a screen for accepting input of payment data by the second payment means and does not include a return button, is displayed on the display device. When the payment method accepts input of payment data using the first payment method with the first reception screen displayed on the display device, the payment method settles the price based on the payment data from the first payment method. However, when input of payment data by the second payment means is accepted with the second reception screen displayed on the display device, the payment is made based on the payment data by the second payment means. The return means returns the screen of the display device to the first reception screen when the return button is input before accepting input of payment data by the first payment means with the first reception screen displayed on the display device. Return to the payment method selection screen from the screen .

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a checkout system in one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configurations of a registration device and a payment device included in the checkout system. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the payment device as viewed from above. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing main data memory areas formed in RAMs of each of the registration device and the payment device. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing main data memory areas formed in the RAM and auxiliary storage device of the registration device. 5 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by the CPU of the registration device according to the registration program. 5 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by the CPU of the registration device according to the registration program. 5 is a flowchart showing the main steps of reception interrupt processing executed by the CPU of the payment device according to the payment program. 9 is a flowchart specifically showing the procedure of accounting processing in FIG. 8; 9 is a flowchart specifically showing the processing procedure of the CPU of the payment device after the cash button is touched in FIG. 9; 9 is a flowchart specifically showing the processing procedure of the CPU of the payment device after the credit button is touched in FIG. 9; The schematic diagram which shows an example of the payment means selection screen displayed on the touch panel of a payment device. The schematic diagram which shows an example of the electronic money reception screen displayed on the touch panel of a payment device. The schematic diagram which shows an example of the cash reception screen displayed on the touch panel of a payment device. The schematic diagram which shows an example of the checkout waiting screen displayed on the touch panel of a payment device. 12 is a flowchart specifically showing the processing procedure of the CPU of the payment device after the cash button is touched in the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a cash reception screen displayed on the touch panel of the payment device in the second embodiment.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of a payment device that can prevent fraud by a payer who leaves without paying the payment will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that this embodiment exemplifies a payment device in a semi-self checkout system introduced in a retail store such as a supermarket.

[First embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a checkout system 10 in the first embodiment. The checkout system 10 includes a plurality of registration devices 11 and a larger number of payment devices 12 than the registration devices 11. The registration device 11 and the payment device 12 are arranged in each checkout lane of the store.

In FIG. 1, two registration devices 11 (11-1, 11-2) and six payment devices 12 (12-1, 12-2, 12-3, 12-4, 12-5, 12- 6) and are placed in two checkout lanes. One registration device 11 (11-1) and three payment devices 12 (12-1, 12-2, 12-3) are arranged in one checkout lane. Three payment devices 12 (12-1, 12-2, 12-3) arranged in the same checkout lane are grouped with respect to the registration device 11 (11-1). Similarly, one registration device 11 (11-2) and three payment devices 12 (12-4, 12-5, 12-6) are arranged in the other checkout lane. Three payment devices 12 (12-4, 12-5, 12-6) arranged in the same checkout lane are grouped with respect to the registration device 11 (11-2).

Note that the number of registration devices 11 and payment devices 12 included in the checkout system 10 is arbitrary. Furthermore, the ratio of the number of registration devices 11 and payment devices 12 arranged in the checkout lane is arbitrary.

The registration device 11 is operated by a store clerk 21 who plays a role called a checker, that is, a so-called registrant. The operator of the payment device 12 is a shopper 22 who purchases products sold at a store, ie, a so-called payment person. However, there are cases where the clerk becomes the person making the payment.

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

The registration device 11 has the functions of registering sales products, generating accounting data, transferring accounting data to the payment device 12, and payment processing. Registering a product for sale means registering a product purchased by the shopper 22 in the registration device 11 as a product for sale. For example, by scanning a barcode attached to a product with a scanner, the product is registered in the registration device 11 as a sales product. Accounting data is data related to accounting for sold products registered as one transaction. Accounting data includes a product code, which is an identification code of a sold product, product name, unit price, quantity, amount, etc. Settlement processing refers to settling the price of a transaction, which is an act of buying and selling products, based on accounting data. The price is, for example, the total amount of purchased products. If one item is purchased, the price of that item can be the price. Further, if there is a discount or discount on the total amount, the price will be the amount after the discount or discount. For payment, cash, credit card, electronic money, etc. are used as payment.

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

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

The registration device 11 and the payment device 12 exchange information via the LAN 13. Note that, instead of the LAN 13, another communication network such as the Internet or a wireless LAN may be used as the network. Further, a configuration may be adopted in which information is exchanged between the registration device 11 and the payment device 12 via a server.

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

The CPU 11a is connected to a ROM 11b, a RAM 11c, and an auxiliary storage unit 11d via a transmission system 11k to form a computer.
The CPU 11a corresponds to the central part of the computer. The CPU 11a controls each part to realize various functions of the 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 above operating system. The ROM 11b may also store the above middleware or application program. The ROM 11b may also store data that the CPU 11a refers to when performing various processes.

The RAM 11c corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer. The RAM 11c stores data that the CPU 11a refers to when performing various processes. The RAM 11c is also used as a so-called work area in which data temporarily used by the CPU 11a is stored.

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

The application programs stored in the ROM 11b or the auxiliary storage unit 11d include a control program written regarding information processing executed by the registration device 11, such as a registration program. Generally, the registration device 11 is transferred with the control program stored in the ROM 11b or the auxiliary storage unit 11d. However, the registration device 11 may be transferred without the control program being 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, etc. 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 separately transferred registration device 11.

The drawer opening unit 11e automatically opens a drawer for storing coins.

The scanner 11f reads the barcode attached to the product 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, the scanner 11f may include a fixed or handheld two-dimensional code scanner. Further, the scanner 11f may include a type of scanner that identifies a product from an image of the product using image recognition technology.

Among the two touch panels 11g1 and 11g2, one touch panel 11g1 is for use by store staff, and the other touch panel 11g2 is for use by customers. Both touch panels 11g1 and 11g2 include 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 well-known device such as a color LCD can be used. The touch sensor is arranged to overlap the display surface of the display device. The touch sensor detects the touch position of the operator on the display surface of the display device, and sends the position information to the CPU 11a. A well-known device can be used as the touch sensor.

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

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 payment cards such as credit cards and electronic money cards, as well as membership cards called membership cards, point cards, and the like.

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

The transmission system 11k transmits data exchanged between the CPU 11a, ROM 11b, RAM 11c, auxiliary storage unit 11d, drawer opening unit 11e, scanner 11f, touch panels 11g1 and 11g2, 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 various parts can be used.

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

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

The automatic change machine 12e is provided with a coin inlet, a coin outlet, a bill inlet, and a bill outlet, respectively. The automatic change machine 12e receives coins and bills inserted from the coin slot and the bill slot. The automatic change machine 12e also discharges coins and banknotes as change from the coin dispensing port and the banknote dispensing port.

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

That is, the CPU 12a is connected to the ROM 11b, the RAM 11c, and the auxiliary storage unit 11d via the transmission system 11k to form a computer. The CPU 12a controls each part to realize various operations of the payment device 12 based on the operating system, middleware, and application programs stored in the ROM 12b and RAM 12c.

The application programs stored in the ROM 12b or the auxiliary storage unit 12d include a control program written regarding information processing executed by the payment device 12, such as a payment program. Generally, the payment device 12 is transferred with the control program stored in the ROM 12b or the auxiliary storage unit 12d. However, the payment device 12 may be transferred without the control program being 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, etc. and transferred. Alternatively, the control program may be transferred via a network and written in the auxiliary storage unit 12d of the separately transferred payment device 12.

As the hardware of such a payment device 12, it is possible to use, for example, a POS terminal compatible with an existing self-pay method.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the payment device 12 when viewed from above. The payment device 12 includes a first housing 121 that includes a scanner 12f, a touch panel 12g, and the like, and a second housing 122 that includes an automatic change machine 12e and the like. The first casing 121 is provided above the second casing 122 and integrally with the second casing 122 .
The second housing 122 is formed with a coin slot 123, a coin payout port 124, a bill slot 125, and a bill payout port 126. That is, a coin dispensing port 124, a bill dispensing port 126, and a bill inserting port 125 are provided in a stepwise manner in order from the back side where the coin inlet 123 is provided toward the front side. Specifically, the surface on which the coin inlet 123 is provided is on the upper stage, the stage on which the coin dispensing port 124 is provided is on the middle stage located below the upper stage, and the banknote dispensing port 126 and the bill inlet 125 are provided. The tier shown is the lower tier located below the middle tier. The coin dispensing port 124 located in the middle row is located closer to the front in the depth direction of the second housing 122 than the coin input port 123 located in the upper row. Further, the banknote dispensing port 126 and the banknote input port 125 located at the lower stage are located closer to the front in the depth direction of the second housing 122 than the coin dispensing port 124 located at the middle stage. By arranging the coin inlet 123, coin outlet 124, bill inlet 125, and bill outlet 126 in a stepped manner in this way, it is possible to see all the inlets and outlets from the back side to the front side. can.

The checkout system 10 including the registration device 11 and payment device 12 configured as described above forms data memory areas 31 and 32 shown in FIG. 4 in the RAMs 11c and 12c of the registration device 11 and payment device 12, respectively.

The data memory area 31 is an area for storing data of sales products in one transaction. The data includes items such as product code, product name, unit price, quantity, and amount. The product code is a unique code for individually identifying each product. A product code represented by a barcode, for example, is attached to each product, and the registration device 11 can acquire the product code by scanning the barcode with the scanner 11f. The product name and unit price are the name of the product identified by the corresponding product code and the price per item. The number of items is the number of items sold, and the amount is the amount of money (sales amount) for the number of items sold. Hereinafter, the data memory area 31 will be referred to as transaction memory. The data of the registration device 11 is represented by a transaction memory 31a, and the data of the payment device 12 is represented by a transaction memory 31b.

The data memory area 32 is an area for storing the total number and total amount. The total number is the total number of sold items stored in the transaction memory 31. The total amount is the total amount of sales stored in the transaction memory 31. Hereinafter, the data memory area 32 will be referred to as total memory. The data of the registration device 11 is represented by a total memory 32a, and the data of the payment device 12 is represented by a total memory 32b.

The checkout system 10 also forms a data memory area 41 shown in FIG. 5 in the RAM 11c of the registration device 11, and forms a data memory area 42 in the auxiliary storage unit 11d of the registration device 11.

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

The data memory area 42 stores payment device IDs and identification names in association with a series of list numbers (accounting data transfer order) starting from "1". The payment device ID is a unique ID assigned to each payment device 12 in order to identify each payment device 12 individually, and stored in the ROM 12b, for example. Incidentally, the same registered device ID for each registered device 11 is also stored in the ROM 11b. The identification name is a unique name individually set for each payment device 12. The operator of the registration device 11 can determine which payment device 12 is indicated from the identification name. Hereinafter, the data memory area 42 will be referred to as a list table 42.

The list number "1" of the list table 42 is preset with the payment device ID and identification name of the payment device 12 installed closest to the registration device 11, and the list number "2" is set in advance. The payment device ID and identification name of the payment device 12 installed at the second closest location to the registration device 11 are set in advance. In this way, the transfer order of accounting data is set in order of distance from the registration device 11. Note that such a setting is an example, and the transfer order does not necessarily have to be set in order of distance from the registration device 11.

6 and 7 are flowcharts showing the main steps of information processing that the CPU 11a of the registration device 11 executes according to the registration program. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing that the CPU 12a of the payment device 12 executes according to the payment program. 9 to 11 are flowcharts specifically showing the procedure of accounting processing during information processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 8. 12 to 15 are schematic diagrams showing various examples of images displayed on the touch panel 12g of the payment device 12. The operation of the checkout system 10 will be described below using these figures. Note that the content of the processing described below is an example, and various processing that can obtain similar results can be used as appropriate.

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

Next, the CPU 11a sets the screen of the touch panel 11g as a registration screen (Act 2). The registration screen shows the contents of the temporary buffer 41, transaction memory 31a, and total memory 32a, and allows the clerk 21 to confirm the implementation status of the registration process.

When the store clerk 21 confirms that the registration screen is displayed on the touch panel 11g, the store clerk 21 recognizes that it is possible for the shopper 22 to register the product to be purchased. When the shopper 22 comes to the work table 23 with the purchased products, the store clerk 21 sequentially inputs the product code of the product by operating the scanner 11f or product buttons, for example. After inputting the product codes of all products, the clerk 21 touches the subtotal button. With the above operations, the registration of products purchased by one shopper (sales registration for one transaction) is completed.

In response to such a registration operation, the CPU 11a of the registration device 11 executes the following information processing. First, the CPU 11a displays the registration screen and waits for input of a product code (Act 3). When a product code is input via the scanner 11f or the product button (YES in Act 3), the CPU 11a acquires product information such as the product name and unit price that are associated with the product code and set in the product database. . Further, the CPU 11a multiplies this unit price by the number of pieces to calculate the amount for the number of pieces. If the number is entered using a numeric keypad or the like before the product code is input, the number is the numerical value, and if the number is not entered, it is "1". Once the CPU 11a has generated the product sales data including the product code, product name, unit price, quantity, and amount, it stores this product sales data in the temporary buffer 41 (Act 4). At this time, if the product sales data has already been stored in the temporary buffer 41, the CPU 11a moves the stored product sales data to the transaction memory 31, and then transfers the new product sales data to the temporary buffer 41. Store in.

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

After updating the registration screen, the CPU 11a checks whether the next product code has been input (Act 6). If the product code has not been input (NO in Act 6), the CPU 11a checks whether the subtotal button has been touched (Act 7). If the subtotal button is not touched (NO in Act 7), the CPU 11a checks again whether the product code has been input (Act 6). Thus, in Acts 6 and 7, the CPU 11a waits for the product code to be input or for the subtotal button to be touched. Note that when the CPU 11a confirms the occurrence of another event such as another operation being performed in this standby state, the CPU 11a shifts to processing corresponding to the event that has occurred. Such operations are similar in other standby states.

When the product code is input in the standby state of Act6 and Act7 (YES in Act6), the CPU 11a proceeds to the process of Act4. 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 executes the processing of Act8 and Act9. Note that the processing procedures of Act 8 and Act 9 are not limited to this order. The order may be reversed.

In Act 8, the CPU 11a moves the product sales data stored in the temporary buffer 41 to the transaction memory 31. Then, the CPU 11a generates accounting data from the data in the transaction memory 31a and the data in the total memory 32a. In Act 9, the CPU 11a sets the screen of the touch panel 11g as an accounting confirmation screen. The accounting confirmation screen displays the total number, total amount, etc. of the total memory 32a. The checkout screen displays button images including a back button and a checkout button. The return button is a button image for the store clerk 21 to specify to return the screen of the touch panel 11g to the registration screen. The checkout button is a button image used by the store clerk 21 to instruct the transaction to proceed to checkout after completing product registration for one transaction.

The CPU 11a that has displayed the checkout confirmation screen checks whether the checkout button has been input (Act 10). If the checkout button has not been input (NO in Act 10), the CPU 11a checks whether the back button has been input (Act 11). If the back button has not been input (NO in Act 11), the CPU 11a checks again whether the checkout button has been input (Act 10). In this manner, the CPU 11a waits for the checkout button or the return button to be input in Acts 10 and 11.

After checking the checkout confirmation screen, the store clerk 21 checks whether the product purchased by the shopper 22 remains registered. If there are any remaining items, the clerk 21 touches the back button. If there are none left, the clerk 21 touches the checkout button.

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

When the checkout button is touched in the standby state of Act10 and Act11 (YES in Act10), the CPU 11a proceeds to the process of Act13 in FIG. That is, the CPU 11a reads the list of IDs and identification names of the payment devices 12 from the list table 42 (Act 13). Next, the CPU 11a detects the payment device ID with list number "1" from the list table 42 (Act 14). Then, the CPU 11a instructs the communication unit 11j to send the accounting data generated in the process of Act 8 and the list data acquired in the process of Act 13 to the payment device ID of list number "1" (Act 15). In response to this command, the communication unit 11j transmits "accounting data + list data" on the LAN 13, with the payment device ID of list number "1" as the destination and the registered device ID stored in the ROM 11b as the transmission source. . This "accounting data + list data" is received by the payment device 12 whose destination payment device ID matches the payment device ID stored in the ROM 12b.

When the CPU 12a of each payment device 12 receives "accounting data + list data" via the communication unit 12j, it determines whether the payment device ID added to the data as a destination matches the payment device ID stored in the ROM 12b. confirm. If they do not match, the CPU 12a discards "accounting data+list data". If they match, the CPU 12a takes in "accounting data+list data". The CPU 12a then starts the reception interrupt process specifically shown in FIG.

When the reception interrupt process is started, the CPU 12a first checks the busy flag F (Act 21). The busy flag F is 1-bit data that is set to "1" while the CPU 12a is processing transaction settlement based on accounting data, and is reset to "0" when the processing is completed, and is stored in the RAM 12c. There is. In this way, while the busy flag F is set, the payment device 12 is executing the transaction payment. Therefore, the payment device 12 cannot settle new transactions.

When the busy flag F has been reset, that is, when the payment device 12 is in a state where it can execute transaction settlement (YES in Act 21), the CPU 12a executes the processes in Acts 22, 23, and 24. Note that the processing procedures of Act22, Act23, and Act24 are not limited to this order. The order may be reversed.

In Act22, the CPU 12a sets the busy flag F to "1".

In Act 23, the CPU 12a instructs the communication unit 12j to transmit the command data of the accounting possible response to the registration device 11 that is the data transmission source. In response to this command, the communication unit 12j sends command data of an accounting possible response whose destination is the registered device ID set as the source of the "accounting data + list data" and whose source is the payment device ID stored in the ROM 12b. is transmitted onto the LAN 13. This command data is received by the registration device 11 whose destination registration device ID matches the registration device ID stored in the ROM 11b.

In Act 24, the CPU 12a executes accounting processing based on the received accounting data. Accounting processing will be explained later. When the accounting process is completed, the CPU 12a resets the busy flag F to "0" (Act 25).

With this, the reception interrupt processing for "accounting data + list data" with the busy flag F being reset is completed.

On the other hand, if the busy flag F is set, that is, if the payment device 12 is in a state where it is not possible to settle the transaction (NO in Act 21), the CPU 12a searches the received list data (Act 26). . The CPU 12a then checks whether the payment device ID stored in the ROM 12b is associated with the final list number of the list data (Act 27).

If the payment device ID is not associated with the final list number (NO in Act 27), the CPU 12a selects a list number obtained by adding "1" to the list number associated with the payment device ID stored in the ROM 12b from the list data. The payment device ID associated with is detected (Act 28). Then, the CPU 12a instructs the communication unit 12j to send "accounting data + list data" to the detected payment device ID (Act 29). In response to this command, the communication unit 12j sends "accounting data+list data" onto the LAN 13, using the detected payment device ID as the destination and leaving the registered device ID indicating the sender unchanged. This "accounting data + list data" is received by the payment device 12 whose destination payment device ID matches the payment device ID stored in the ROM 12b.

On the other hand, if the payment device ID is associated with the final list number (maximum list number) (YES in Act 27), the CPU 12a sends an accounting failure response to the data transmission source registration device 11. The communication unit 12j is commanded to transmit command data (Act30). In response to this command, the communication unit 12j sends command data for an accounting failure response whose destination is the registered device ID set as the source of the "accounting data + list data" and whose source is the payment device ID stored in the ROM 12b. is transmitted onto the LAN 13. This command data is received by the registration device 11 whose destination registration device ID matches the registration device ID stored in the ROM 11b.

With the above, the reception interrupt processing of "accounting data + list data" with the busy flag F set is completed.

The CPU 11a of the registration device 11 that sent the "accounting data + list data" in Act 15 of FIG. 7 waits for a response from the payment device 12 (Act 16). When command data indicating a response is received via the communication unit 11j (YES in Act 16), the CPU 11a identifies whether the command data is a response that allows accounting or a response that does not allow accounting (Act 17).

In the case of a transaction possible response (YES in Act 17), the CPU 11a searches the list table 42 and reads out the identification name stored in association with the payment device ID that is the source of the command data. Then, the CPU 11a causes a message indicating that the payment device 12 with this identification name is ready for payment to be displayed in a part of the checkout confirmation screen (Act 18). After confirming this message, the store clerk notifies the shopper to pay with the payment device 12 specified from the identification name.

On the other hand, if the transaction is not possible (NO in Act 17), the CPU 11a displays a message indicating that the transaction data could not be transmitted in a part of the transaction confirmation screen (Act 19). After that, the CPU 11a executes the transmission prohibition process.

The transmission prohibition process, for example, waits for the checkout button to be input again, and when the checkout button is input, the processes from Act 13 onwards are executed again. In this case, the clerk who confirms the message touches the checkout button.

The transmission prohibition process includes, for example, attaching a unique identification code to accounting data and transmitting it to the server, and driving the printer 11h to issue an accounting ticket on which a barcode indicating the identification code is printed. In this case, the store clerk confirms the message and hands the checkout ticket to the shopper. The shopper reads the barcode of the checkout ticket using the scanner 12f of the payment device 12, which is provided at a location other than the checkout lane, for example. Then, the CPU 12a of the payment device 12 acquires accounting data attached with an identification code obtained from the barcode from the server. Then, the CPU 12a executes the processes in Acts 22, 24, and 25 in FIG. 8 based on this accounting data.

In this way, the store clerk 21 registers the products purchased by the shopper 22 in the registration device 11. After completing the registration, the clerk 21 touches the checkout button on the checkout confirmation screen. Then, the accounting data necessary for settling the transaction with this shopper 22 is transmitted together with the list data of the list table 42. The destination of this "accounting data + list data" is the payment device 12 (referred to as payment device 12-1) identified by the payment device ID of list number "1".

Here, if the payment device 12-1 is able to execute the payment of the transaction (busy flag F=0), the payment device 12-1 transmits command data of an accounting possible response to the registration device 11. As a result, on the checkout confirmation screen of the registration device 11, a message indicating that the checkout is ready is displayed together with the identification name representing the payment device 12-1. The device 12-1 notifies the user to pay the bill.

On the other hand, if the payment device 12-1 is unable to settle the transaction (busy flag F = 1), the "accounting data + list data" is transferred from the payment device 12-1 to the other payment device 12. Ru. The destination is the payment device 12 (referred to as payment device 12-2) identified by the payment device ID of list number “2”.

Here, if the payment device 12-2 is able to execute the payment of the transaction (busy flag F=0), the payment device 12-2 transmits command data of an accounting possible response to the registration device 11. As a result, on the checkout confirmation screen of the registration device 11, a message indicating that the checkout is ready is displayed together with the identification name representing the payment device 12-2. The device 12-2 notifies the user to pay the bill.

On the other hand, if the payment device 12-2 is unable to settle the transaction (busy flag F = 1), the "accounting data + list data" is further transferred from the payment device 12-2 to another payment device 12. be done. The destination is the payment device 12 (referred to as payment device 12-3) identified by the payment device ID of list number "3".

Here, if the payment device 12-3 is capable of executing the payment of the transaction (busy flag F=0), the payment device 12-3 transmits command data of an accounting possible response to the registration device 11. As a result, on the checkout confirmation screen of the registration device 11, a message indicating that the checkout is ready is displayed together with the identification name representing the payment device 12-3. The device 12-3 notifies the user to pay the bill.

On the other hand, if the settlement device 12-3 is unable to settle the transaction (busy flag F = 1), all three settlement devices 12-1, 12-2, and 12-3 will settle the transaction. is not possible. In this case, the payment device 12-3 sends command data indicating a non-accounting response to the registration device 11. As a result, a message indicating that transmission is not possible is displayed on the checkout confirmation screen of the registration device 11, so the clerk 21 touches the checkout button again. Alternatively, since a checkout ticket is issued with a message indicating that it cannot be sent, the clerk 21 hands the checkout ticket to the shopper 22.

A shopper 22 who is notified by a store clerk 21 to pay at one of the payment devices 12 moves to the location of that payment device 12. At this time, the payment device 12 starts accounting processing according to the payment program. When the accounting process is started, the CPU 12a of the payment device 12 sets the screen of the touch panel 12g to the payment means selection screen SC1 (see FIG. 12) (Act31).

FIG. 12 is an example of the payment means selection screen SC1. The payment means selection screen SC1 includes display areas R1 and R2 and buttons B1 and B2. Display area R1 displays operational guidance for a payer (usually shopper 22) who operates payment device 12. The display area R2 displays the total number and total amount stored in the total memory 32b. Similar to the registration device 11, the total number and total amount stored in the total memory 32b are values calculated by the payment device 12 based on the unit price, number, and amount of sales items included in the accounting data. Note that the value calculated by the registration device 11 may be used as is. Button B1 is a payment button B1 for the settler to select one of the payment methods from among a plurality of payment methods.

The payment button B1 is a cash button B11 operated by the settler when the means of payment is cash, a credit button B12 operated by the settler when the means of payment is a credit card, and a credit button B12 operated by the settler when the means of payment is electronic money. and an electronic money button B13 operated by the user. Button B2 is a clerk call button B2 that is operated by the payer when calling the clerk 21.

After checking the payment means selection screen SC1, the settler decides the means of payment, and touches the payment button B1 corresponding to the payment means.

The CPU 12a that has displayed the payment means selection screen SC1 checks whether the cash button B11 has been touched (Act32). If the cash button B11 is not touched (NO in Act 32), the CPU 12a checks whether the credit button B12 is touched (Act 33). If the credit button B12 is not touched (NO in Act 33), the CPU 12a checks whether the electronic money button B13 is touched (Act 34). If the electronic money button B13 is not touched (NO in Act 34), the CPU 12a checks again whether the cash button B11 is touched (Act 32). Thus, in Acts 32 to 34, the CPU 12a waits for any one of the cash button B11, credit button B12, and electronic money button B13 to be touched.

In this embodiment, cash, credit card, and electronic money are exemplified as payment means. When paying by credit card or electronic money, the card data of the credit card or electronic money card is read via the card reader/writer 12i. By reading these card data, the personal information of the payer who is the card owner is taken into the payment device 12. Here, the payment means by credit card or electronic money corresponds to the first payment means. On the other hand, when paying by cash, the settler inserts cash into the bill slot 125 or the coin slot 123. When the payment in cash is completed and there is change, the banknotes as change are dispensed from the bill dispensing port 126, and the coins are dispensed from the coin dispensing port 124. Here, the cash payment means corresponds to the second payment means.

Therefore, the computer mainly composed of the CPU 12a declares whether to pay the price using the first payment means or the second payment means by cooperating with the touch panel 12g and executing the processing in Acts 32, 33, and 34. This means that it is accepted. In other words, the first reception means is realized.

When the CPU 12a detects that the electronic money button B13 has been touched in the standby state of Acts 32 to 34 (Act 34, YES), the CPU 12a sets the screen of the touch panel 12g to the electronic money reception screen SC2 (see FIG. 13) (Act 35). .

FIG. 13 is an example of the electronic money reception screen SC2. The electronic money reception screen SC2 includes a button B3 in addition to the same display areas R1 and R2 as the payment means selection screen SC1 and a clerk call button B2. Button B3 is a back button B3 operated by the payer to cancel the previous operation and return to the previous screen.

When the payer confirms the electronic money acceptance screen SC2 and continues to pay with electronic money, the payer causes the card reader/writer 12i to read the data of the electronic money card. On the other hand, when canceling the payment using electronic money, the payer touches the back button B3. Further, in order to call the clerk, the payer touches the clerk call button B2.

The CPU 12a that has displayed the electronic money reception screen SC2 determines whether or not the return button B3 has been touched (Act36). If the return button B3 is not touched (Act 36, NO), the CPU 12a determines whether the clerk call button B2 is touched (Act 37). If the clerk call button B2 is not touched (Act 37, NO), the CPU 12a determines whether payment data using electronic money has been input (Act 38). Electronic money payment data is electronic money balance data recorded on an electronic money recording medium such as an electronic money card. Inputting the payment data means that the electronic money balance data recorded on the electronic money recording medium is read by the card reader/writer 12i. If payment data using electronic money has not been input (Act 38, NO), the CPU 12a again checks whether the return button B3 has been touched (Act 36). Thus, in Acts 36 to 38, the CPU 12a waits for the return button B3 or the clerk call button B2 to be touched, or for payment data using electronic money to be input.

When the CPU 12a detects that the return button B3 has been touched in the standby state of Acts 36 to 38 (Act 36, YES), the CPU 12a returns to the process of Act 31. That is, the CPU 12a returns the screen of the touch panel 12g from the electronic money reception screen SC2 to the payment means selection screen SC1.

Therefore, by cooperating with the touch panel 12g and executing the process of Act 36, the computer mainly composed of the CPU 12a accepts the declaration to pay the price using electronic money, which is a type of the first payment means, through the first reception means. In this case, an instruction to return to a state where a declaration of whether to pay the price using the first payment means or the second payment means is accepted is being accepted.

Furthermore, by executing the processes in Acts 36 and 31, the computer mainly including the CPU 12a receives a declaration that the payment will be made using electronic money, which is a type of first payment means, through the first receiving means, and then sends the declaration. It will be returned to a state where it is accepted. In other words, a return means is realized.

Now, in the standby state of Acts 36 to 38, when the CPU 12a detects that the clerk call button B2 is touched (Act 37, YES), the CPU 12a controls the communication unit 12j to transmit a clerk call signal to the registration device 11. (Act 39). Under this control, a clerk calling signal is transmitted from the communication unit 12j to the registration device 11 via the LAN 13. In the registration device 11 that has received this clerk call signal, a message is displayed on the touch panel 11g1 on the clerk side, for example, to inform the operator of the payment device 12 that is currently being called by the clerk.

The CPU 12a that has controlled the transmission of the clerk call signal sets the screen of the touch panel 12g as the clerk call screen (Act 40). The clerk call screen includes, for example, a message to notify the payer that a clerk is being added. With this, the CPU 12a ends the accounting process.

Further, in the standby state from Act 36 to Act 38, when the CPU 12a detects that the card reader/writer 12i reads the electronic money balance data recorded on the electronic money recording medium such as the electronic money card, the CPU 12a reads the electronic money payment data. It is determined that the input has been made. When determining that payment data using electronic money has been input (Act 38, YES), the CPU 12a executes electronic money payment processing (Act 41). Since this process is a well-known process of deducting the transaction price from the electronic money balance, a detailed explanation will be omitted.

Therefore, the computer mainly including the CPU 12a executes the process in Act 38 in cooperation with the card reader/writer 12i, thereby declaring that the first receiving means will pay the price using electronic money, which is a type of first payment means. If accepted, it means that input of payment data using electronic money has been accepted. In other words, part of the second reception means is realized.

In addition, by executing the process in Act 41, the computer mainly including the CPU 12a determines that when the second reception means receives input of payment data using electronic money, which is a type of first payment means, the computer uses the electronic money. Payment will be made based on the payment data. In other words, a part of the payment method is realized.

When the electronic money payment process ends in this way, the CPU 12a sets the screen of the touch panel 12g as the payment end screen (Act42). The payment completion screen includes a message for notifying the settler that the payment has been completed. With this, the CPU 12a ends the accounting process.

When the CPU 12a detects that the credit button B12 has been touched in the standby state in Acts 32 to 34 (Act 33, YES), the process proceeds to Act 51 in FIG. That is, the CPU 12a sets the screen of the touch panel 12g as a card acceptance screen (Act 51). The card reception screen is the same as the electronic money reception screen SC2 except for the messages in the display area R1. In the case of the electronic money reception screen SC2, a message such as "Please let the reader read the electronic money" is displayed in the display area R1, but in the case of the card reception screen, for example, the message "Please read the credit card data" is displayed in the display area R1. Please allow the department to read it.'' is displayed. The card reception screen is also the same as the electronic money reception screen SC2 in that a return button B3 is displayed in addition to the clerk call button B2.

When the payer confirms the card acceptance screen and continues paying by credit card, the payer causes the card reader/writer 12i to read the credit card data. On the other hand, when canceling payment by credit card, the payer touches the back button B3. Further, in order to call the clerk, the payer touches the clerk call button B2.

The CPU 12a that has displayed the card reception screen determines whether or not the return button B3 has been touched (Act 52). If the return button B3 is not touched (Act 52, NO), the CPU 12a determines whether the clerk call button B2 is touched (Act 53). If the clerk call button B2 is not touched (Act 53, NO), the CPU 12a determines whether credit card data has been input (Act 54). If credit card data has not been input (Act 54, NO), the CPU 12a again checks whether the return button B3 has been touched (Act 52). Thus, in Acts 52 to 54, the CPU 12a waits for the return button B3 or the clerk call button B2 to be touched or for credit card data to be input.

When the CPU 12a detects that the return button B3 has been touched in the standby state of Acts 52 to 54 (Act 52, YES), the process returns to Act 31. That is, the CPU 12a returns the screen of the touch panel 12g from the card acceptance screen to the payment means selection screen SC1.

Therefore, by cooperating with the touch panel 12g and executing the process in Act 52, the computer mainly composed of the CPU 12a accepts the declaration to pay the price using a credit card, which is a type of first payment means, using the first reception means. In this case, an instruction to return to a state where a declaration of whether to pay the price using the first payment means or the second payment means is accepted is accepted.

Furthermore, by executing the processing in Acts 52 and 31, the computer mainly including the CPU 12a receives a declaration that the payment will be made using a credit card, which is a type of first payment means, through the first reception means, and then sends the declaration. It will be returned to a state where it is accepted. In other words, a return means is realized.

Now, when the CPU 12a detects that the clerk call button B2 has been touched in the standby state of Acts 52 to 54 (Act 53, YES), the CPU 12a sends a clerk call signal to the registration device 11 in the same way as in the process of Act 39 described above. The communication unit 12j is controlled to transmit (Act 55). Further, the CPU 12a sets the screen of the touch panel 12g as a clerk call screen (Act 56), similar to the process of Act 40 described above. With this, the CPU 12a ends the accounting process.

Further, when the CPU 12a detects that credit card data has been read by the card reader/writer 12i in the standby state of Acts 52 to 54, it determines that payment data by credit card has been input. Credit card payment data is authentication data recorded on a credit card. When determining that credit card payment data has been input (Act 54, YES), the CPU 12a executes credit card payment processing (Act 57). Since this process is a well-known process that includes credit card authentication, detailed explanation will be omitted.

Therefore, the computer mainly composed of the CPU 12a cooperates with the card reader/writer 12i and executes the process in Act 54 to declare that the first reception means will pay the price using a credit card, which is a type of first payment means. If accepted, it means that input of payment data by credit card has been accepted. In other words, part of the second reception means is realized.

In addition, by executing the process in Act 57, the computer mainly including the CPU 12a determines that when the second reception means receives input of payment data using a credit card, which is a type of first payment means, the computer uses the credit card. Payment will be made based on the payment data. In other words, a part of the payment method is realized.

When the credit card payment process is thus completed, the CPU 12a sets the screen of the touch panel 12g as the payment end screen (Act 58). The payment completion screen includes a message for notifying the settler that the payment has been completed. With this, the CPU 12a ends the accounting process.

When the CPU 12a detects that the cash button B11 has been touched in the standby state in Acts 32 to 34 (Act 32, YES), the process proceeds to Act 61 in FIG. 11. That is, the CPU 12a sets the screen of the touch panel 12g to the cash reception screen SC3 (see FIG. 14) (Act61).

FIG. 14 is an example of the cash reception screen SC3. In addition to the display area R1 similar to the payment means selection screen SC1, the cash reception screen SC3 includes a display area R3 and a clerk call button B2. However, the return button B3 that was displayed on the electronic money reception screen SC2 or the credit card reception screen is not displayed. Display area R3 is an area for displaying the total amount, input amount, and change amount.

When the payer confirms the cash acceptance screen SC3 and continues paying in cash, the payer inserts cash into the bill slot 125 or coin slot 123 of the automatic change machine 12e. On the other hand, when canceling the cash payment or calling the clerk, the payer touches the clerk call button B2.

The CPU 12a that has displayed the cash reception screen SC3 determines whether or not the clerk call button B2 has been touched (Act62). If the clerk call button B2 is not touched (Act 62, NO), the CPU 12a determines whether cash has been inserted into the automatic change machine 12e (Act 63). If cash has not been inserted (Act 63, NO), the CPU 12a again checks whether the clerk call button B2 has been touched (Act 62). Thus, in Acts 62 and 63, the CPU 12a waits for the clerk call button B2 to be touched or for cash to be inserted.

When the CPU 12a detects that the clerk call button B2 has been touched in the standby state in Acts 62 and 63 (Act 62, YES), the CPU 12a transmits the clerk call signal to the registration device 11 in the same way as in the processing in Acts 39 and 55 described above. The communication unit 12j is controlled to transmit to (Act 69). Further, the CPU 12a sets the screen of the touch panel 12g as a clerk call screen (Act 70), similarly to the processes in Acts 40 and 56 described above. With this, the CPU 12a ends the accounting process.

Incidentally, the called clerk can return the screen of the touch panel 12g to the payment means selection screen SC1 by performing a predetermined return operation after switching the operation mode of the payment device 12 to the clerk mode. That is, the payment device 12 has a second return means different from the return means. Therefore, a payer who has stopped paying by cash can pay by other means of payment, such as a credit card or electronic money, by calling a clerk. The return means is a means by which any payer can return the screen of the touch panel 12g to the payment means selection screen SC1. On the other hand, the second return means is a means that can only be returned by a limited number of people, such as store staff.

When the CPU 12a detects that a banknote or coin has been inserted into the banknote slot 125 or coin slot 123 of the automatic change machine in the standby state of Act62 and Act63, it determines that payment data in cash has been input. When determining that cash payment data has been input (Act 63, YES), the CPU 12a calculates the deposit amount (Act 64). Then, the CPU 12a determines whether the deposit amount is equal to or greater than the payment amount (Act 65). If the deposit amount is less than the payment amount (Act 65, NO), the CPU 12a returns to the standby state in Acts 62 and 63. Therefore, if cash is further input (Act 63, YES), the deposited amount is added. When the CPU 12a confirms that the deposit amount is equal to or greater than the payment amount (Act 65, YES), the CPU 12a sets the screen of the touch panel 12g to the checkout waiting screen SC4 (see FIG. 15) (Act 66).

FIG. 15 is an example of the checkout waiting screen SC4. The checkout waiting screen SC4 is a screen in which a checkout button B4 is added to the cash reception screen SC3.

Therefore, the computer mainly including the CPU 12a cooperates with the automatic change machine 12e and executes the process of Act 63, thereby accepting a declaration to pay the amount in cash, which is a type of second payment means, through the first reception means. In this case, the input of payment data in cash is accepted. In other words, part of the second reception means is realized. On the other hand, when the computer mainly including the CPU 12a receives a declaration to pay the price in cash, which is the second payment method, by the first reception means, it determines whether the payment can be made by the first payment method or by the second payment method. We will not accept instructions to return to the state of accepting declarations of payment by means.

The settler who confirms the checkout waiting screen SC4 touches the checkout button B4 to complete the payment in cash. On the other hand, in order to call the clerk, the payer touches the clerk call button B2.

The CPU 12a that has displayed the checkout waiting screen SC4 determines whether or not the clerk call button B2 has been touched (Act 67). If the clerk call button B2 is not touched (Act 67, NO), the CPU 12a determines whether the checkout button B4 is touched (Act 68). If the checkout button B4 is not touched (Act 68, NO), the CPU 12a again checks whether the clerk call button B2 is touched (Act 67). Thus, in Acts 67 and 68, the CPU 12a waits for the clerk call button B2 to be touched or the checkout button B4 to be touched.

In the standby state of Acts 67 and 68, when the CPU 12a detects that the clerk call button B2 is touched (Act 67, YES), the CPU 12a controls the communication unit 12j to transmit a clerk call signal to the registration device 11. (Act 69). Further, the CPU 12a sets the screen of the touch panel 12g as a clerk call screen (Act 70). With this, the CPU 12a ends the accounting process.

On the other hand, when the CPU 12a detects that the checkout button B4 has been touched in the standby state in Acts 67 and 68 (Act 68, YES), it executes the cash payment process (Act 71). This process is a well-known process that calculates the amount of change by subtracting the payment amount from the deposited amount, which is cash inserted from the bill slot 125 or the coin slot 123. Note that cash corresponding to the amount of change is dispensed from the bill dispensing port 126 or the coin dispensing port 124 of the automatic change machine 12e. Further, the printer 12h is driven to print and issue a receipt.

Therefore, by executing the process in Act 71, the computer mainly including the CPU 12a receives input of payment data in cash, which is a type of second payment means, by the second reception means. Payment will be made based on. In other words, a part of the payment method is realized.

When the cash payment process ends in this way, the CPU 12a sets the screen of the touch panel 12g as the payment end screen (Act72). The payment completion screen includes a message for notifying the settler that the payment has been completed. With this, the CPU 12a ends the accounting process.

As described above, according to the payment device 12 of the present embodiment, when the payer selects a credit card or electronic money as a payment method on the payment method selection screen SC1, the screen of the touch panel 12g is displayed as a credit acceptance screen or an electronic money acceptance screen. The screen becomes SC2. A return button B3 is displayed on this credit reception screen or electronic money reception screen SC2. Therefore, the payer can return the screen of the touch panel 12g to the payment method selection screen SC1 by touching the return button B3.

On the other hand, when the settler selects cash as the means of payment, the screen of the touch panel 12g becomes the cash reception screen SC3, but the return button B3 is not displayed on this cash reception screen SC3. Therefore, the settler cannot return the screen on the touch panel 12g to the payment method selection screen SC1. In other words, even if the settler chooses cash as the payment method, inserts less cash than the amount paid, presses the "back" button, and leaves without paying the amount, it will not work. Therefore, when cash is used as a means of payment, fraud in non-payment of payments can be prevented.

In general, such fraud is caused by the medium for inputting payment data, that is, the cash slot (coin slot 123, bill slot 125), and the medium associated with inputting the payment data, that is, changing payment. Since the exits (coin dispensing port 124, bill dispensing port 126) are different, it is difficult for store staff to notice. According to this embodiment, since the return button B3 is not displayed on the cash reception screen SC3 as described above, this type of fraud can be reliably prevented.
The medium for inputting payment data is cash in the case of cash payment, a credit card in the case of credit card payment, and an electronic money recording medium such as an electronic money card in the case of electronic money payment. be. In the case of cash payment, the medium related to inputting the payment data is change or money of the same amount as the amount inserted, in the case of credit payment, the inserted credit card, and in the case of electronic money payment, is the inserted electronic money recording medium.

On the other hand, when a credit card or electronic money is used as a payment means, the payment device 12 can obtain information on a payer who is a card holder. The information on the payer includes, for example, name, address, telephone number, etc. Therefore, it is unlikely that the settler will commit fraud by abusing the return button B3 and leaving without paying the payment, as in the case of cash. Therefore, there is no problem even if the return button B3 is displayed on the credit reception screen or electronic money reception screen SC2, so a payer who has selected a credit card or electronic money as a payment method can use another payment method without calling a clerk. can be changed to . Further, even in the case of cash payment, a return button may be displayed as long as information on the payer can be obtained. For example, after the payment device 12 acquires a membership card from which information about the payer can be obtained, a return button may be displayed.
Note that this acquired settler information is stored in the auxiliary storage unit 11d in association with an identifier for identifying the transaction.

[Second embodiment]
In the first embodiment, the return button B3 is not displayed on the cash reception screen SC3 displayed on the touch panel 12g when the settler selects cash as the payment method. However, it is assumed that some settlers may wish to change to another payment method after selecting cash as a payment method and before inserting cash. Before inserting cash, cash will not be dispensed from the bill dispensing port 126 or coin dispensing port 124 of the automatic change machine 12e even if the return button is operated, so there is no possibility of fraud in which the user leaves without paying the amount.

Therefore, in the second embodiment, when cash is selected as a payment method, a button B3 to return to the payment method selection screen SC1 is displayed until cash is inserted, making it possible to return to the payment method selection screen SC1. will be explained using FIGS. 16 and 17. Note that FIGS. 1 to 11, FIGS. 12, 13, and 15 described in the first embodiment will be used as they are in the second embodiment, and their descriptions will be omitted here.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing that the CPU 12a of the payment device 12 executes according to the payment program after the cash button B11 is touched in Act 32 of FIG. Note that the content of the processing described below is an example, and various processing that can obtain similar results can be used as appropriate.

When the CPU 12a detects that the cash button B11 has been touched in the standby state in Acts 32 to 34 (Act 32, YES), the process proceeds to Act 81 in FIG. 16. That is, the CPU 12a sets the screen of the touch panel 12g to the cash reception screen SC5 (see FIG. 17) (Act81).

FIG. 17 is an example of the cash reception screen SC5. The cash reception screen SC5 is a screen with a return button B3 added to the cash reception screen SC3 of the first embodiment.

When the payer confirms the cash acceptance screen SC5 and continues paying in cash, the payer inserts cash into the bill slot 125 or coin slot 123 of the automatic change machine 12e. On the other hand, when canceling the payment in cash, the settler touches the back button B3. Further, in order to call the clerk, the payer touches the clerk call button B2.

The CPU 12a that has displayed the cash reception screen SC5 determines whether the return button B3 has been touched (Act82). If the return button B3 is not touched (Act 82, NO), the CPU 12a determines whether the clerk call button B2 is touched (Act 83). If the clerk call button B2 is not touched (Act 83, NO), the CPU 12a determines whether cash has been inserted into the automatic change machine 12e (Act 84). If cash has not been inserted (Act 84, NO), the CPU 12a again checks whether the return button B3 has been touched (Act 82). Thus, in Acts 82 to 84, the CPU 12a waits for the return button B3 or the clerk call button B2 to be touched, or for payment data in cash to be input.

When the CPU 12a detects that the return button B3 has been touched in the standby state in Acts 82 to 84 (Act 82, YES), the process returns to Act 31. That is, the CPU 12a returns the screen of the touch panel 12g from the cash reception screen SC5 to the payment means selection screen SC1.

On the other hand, when the CPU 12a detects that the clerk call button B2 has been touched in the standby state in Acts 82 to 84 (Act 83, YES), the CPU 12a causes the communication unit 12j to transmit a clerk call signal to the registration device 11. Control (Act95). Further, the CPU 12a sets the screen of the touch panel 12g as a clerk call screen (Act 96). With this, the CPU 12a ends the accounting process.

Further, when the CPU 12a detects that a bill or coin has been inserted into the bill slot 125 or coin slot 123 of the automatic change machine in the standby state of Acts 82 to 84, it determines that cash has been input as payment data. When determining that cash has been input ( Act84 , YES), the CPU 12a erases the return button B3 from the cash reception screen SC5 ( Act85 ). The CPU 12a also calculates the deposited amount (Act86). Then, the CPU 12a determines whether the deposit amount is equal to or greater than the payment amount (Act 87). If the deposit amount is less than the payment amount (Act 87, NO), the CPU 12a determines whether or not the clerk call button B2 has been touched (Act 88). If the clerk call button B2 is not touched (Act 88, NO), the CPU 12a determines whether cash has been inserted into the automatic change machine 12e (Act 89). If cash has not been inserted (Act 89, NO), the CPU 12a again checks whether the clerk call button B2 has been touched (Act 88). Thus, in Acts 88 and 89, the CPU 12a waits for the clerk call button B2 to be touched or for payment data in cash to be input.

When the CPU 12a detects that the clerk call button B2 is touched in the standby state in Acts 88 and 89 (Act 88, YES), it executes the processes in Acts 95 and 96 described above.

Further, when the CPU 12a detects that cash payment data has been input in the standby state in Acts 88 and 89, it executes the processes in Acts 86 and 87 described above. Therefore, if more cash is input (Act 89, YES), the deposited amount is added. When the CPU 12a confirms that the deposit amount is equal to or greater than the payment amount (Act 87, YES), the CPU 12a sets the screen of the touch panel 12g as the checkout waiting screen SC4 (Act 90).

Thereafter, the CPU 12a executes the same processing as Acts 67 to 72 of the first embodiment as Acts 91 to 96.

Therefore, by cooperating with the touch panel 12g and executing the processes in Acts 81 to 89, the computer mainly composed of the CPU 12a accepts a declaration to pay the price in cash, which is the second payment means, through the first reception means, and If the second accepting means accepts input of payment data in cash, it does not accept an instruction to return to the state of accepting the declaration.

As described above, in the second embodiment, when the cash button B11 is touched and cash is selected as the payment method, a button B3 is displayed to return to the cash reception screen SC5 that will be displayed thereafter. The return button B3 is deleted from the cash reception screen SC5 when cash is inserted into the automatic change machine 12e. Therefore, the payer who has selected cash as the payment method can return the screen on the touch panel 12g to the payment method selection screen SC1 by touching the return button B3 before inserting cash.

On the other hand, when cash is inserted, the back button B3 disappears, so the payer cannot operate the back button B3. Therefore, in the second embodiment as well, it is possible to prevent fraud in which the customer leaves without paying the fee.

Other embodiments will be described below.

In the first embodiment, a first operation in which the return button B3 is not displayed on the cash reception screen SC3 is illustrated, and in the second embodiment, cash is displayed in a state where the cash reception screen SC3 including the return button B3 is displayed. The second operation is illustrated in which the return button B3 is erased when it is turned on. In another embodiment, the first operation and the second operation can be selected as options of the payment device 12. By doing so, a store that has introduced the payment device 12 can easily select whether to adopt the first operation or the second operation.

In the first and second embodiments, cash, credit card, and electronic money are exemplified as payment means, but payment means are not limited to these. Other payment methods may be added. Further, any payment means may be omitted.

In that case, the first payment means is not limited to credit cards and electronic money. Similarly, the second means of payment is not limited to cash. In short, the second payment means may be used for payment means in which fraud may occur by operating the return button B3 and leaving the payment unpaid, and the other payment means may be used as the first payment means.

In the first and second embodiments, a semi-self checkout system in which the registration device 11 sends "accounting data + list data" to the payment device 12 was exemplified, but a semi-self checkout system to which the payment device 12 can be applied The out system is not limited to this. For example, the registration device 11 transmits accounting data to one payment device 12 set in advance. If payment is possible, payment device 12 performs payment processing based on the accounting data, but if payment is not possible, it transmits the accounting data to another preset payment device. This type of semi-self checkout system may also be used. Alternatively, it may be a semi-self checkout system of a type in which accounting data is transmitted to one payment device 12 selected by a clerk in the registration device 11, for example. In short, there are no particular restrictions on the type of semi-self checkout system. Furthermore, the same configuration as this embodiment can be applied to a payment device of a self-checkout system in which even the registration operation necessary for calculating the price is performed by a payment person who is not a store clerk.

Although several other embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and gist of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention described in the claims and its equivalents.
Below, the invention described in the original claims of the present application will be added.
[1] A first receiving means that receives a declaration that the price will be paid by one of at least two payment means, a first payment means or a second payment means; If a declaration to pay the amount by the first payment means is accepted, input of payment data by the first payment means is accepted, and the first reception means declares to pay the price by the second payment means. a second reception means that accepts input of payment data by the second payment means if the payment data is received by the first payment means; If the payment is made based on the payment data by the first payment means, and the second reception means accepts the input of the payment data by the second payment means, the payment data by the second payment means is accepted. and a return means for returning the declaration to a state where the declaration is accepted after the first receiving means receives a declaration to pay the amount using the first payment means. and a payment device in which, after the first reception means receives a declaration to pay the price using the second payment means, the return means cannot return the declaration to a state where the declaration is accepted.
[2] The method further includes a second return means different from the return means, for returning the declaration to a state of accepting the declaration after the first reception means receives a declaration to pay the price using the second payment means. The payment device described in Supplementary Note [1].
[3] A first receiving means that accepts a declaration that the price will be paid by one of at least two payment means, a first payment means or a second payment means; If a declaration to pay the amount by the first payment means is accepted, input of payment data by the first payment means is accepted, and the first reception means declares to pay the price by the second payment means. a second reception means that accepts input of payment data by the second payment means if the payment data is received by the first payment means; If the payment is made based on the payment data by the first payment means, and the second reception means accepts the input of the payment data by the second payment means, the payment data by the second payment means is accepted. a payment means that settles the price based on the payment method; means for returning the declaration to a state of accepting the declaration after receiving the declaration of payment using the payment means and before the second reception means receives input of payment data using the second payment means. However, after the first reception means receives a declaration to pay the price using the second payment means, and after the second reception means receives input of payment data by the second payment means, , a payment device that cannot be returned to a state in which it accepts the declaration by the return means;
[4] After the first reception means receives a declaration to pay the price using the second payment means, and after the second reception means receives input of payment data by the second payment means. , the payment device according to appendix [3], further comprising a second return means different from the return means for returning the declaration to a state of accepting the declaration.
[5] The payment device according to any one of appendices [1] to [4], wherein the first payment means is a payment means capable of acquiring information of a settler who pays the price.
[6] The second payment means is a payment means in which a medium input port for inputting the payment data and a medium payout port related to inputting the payment data are different from each other. The payment device according to any one of [4].
[7] The payment device according to any one of appendices [1] to [4], wherein the second payment means is a payment means using cash.
[8] a first reception means for accepting a declaration of payment; a second reception means for accepting input of payment data when the first reception means accepts the declaration of payment; and the second reception means; If the means accepts the input of the payment data, the payment means settles the price based on the payment data, and after the first reception means receives the payment declaration, the payment declaration is put into a state of accepting the payment declaration. and a return means for returning the payment, and when the first reception means receives the payment declaration and the second reception means receives the input of the payment data, the return means returns the payment. A payment device that cannot be returned to a state where it can accept declarations.
[9] The computer is connected to a first receiving means that receives a declaration of payment of the price, a second receiving means that receives input of payment data when the first receiving means accepts the payment declaration, and a second receiving means that receives the input of payment data. a payment means that settles the price based on the payment data when the input of the payment data is received by the reception means, and a payment declaration that accepts the payment declaration after the first reception means accepts the payment declaration; further, after the first reception means has accepted the payment declaration and the second reception means has accepted the input of the payment data, the return means A payment program that functions in such a way that it cannot be returned to a state in which it accepts the payment declaration.

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

Claims (6)

To accept a declaration to pay the price using one payment method from at least two payment methods: a second payment method that may lead to fraud in leaving the payment unpaid, and a first payment method other than the second payment method. a first reception means for displaying a payment method selection screen on a display device;
If a declaration to pay the price using the first payment method is accepted through the payment method selection screen, the screen is for accepting input of payment data using the first payment method, and cancels the previous operation. display on the display device a first reception screen that includes a back button that is operated to return to the previous screen, and declare that the payment will be made using the second payment method via the payment method selection screen. If accepted, a second reception means causes the display device to display a second reception screen that is a screen for accepting input of payment data by the second payment means and includes the return button;
If input of payment data by the first payment means is accepted while the first reception screen is displayed on the display device, the price is settled based on the payment data by the first payment means. However, if input of payment data by the second payment means is accepted while the second reception screen is displayed on the display device, the payment is made based on the payment data by the second payment means. a payment method for paying the
With the first reception screen displayed on the display device, if the return button is input before accepting input of payment data by the first payment means, the screen of the display device is displayed on the first reception screen. a first return means for returning from the reception screen to the payment means selection screen;
With the second reception screen displayed on the display device, if the return button is input before accepting input of payment data by the second payment means, the screen of the display device is displayed on the second reception screen. a second return means for returning from the reception screen to the payment means selection screen;
If input of payment data by the second payment means is accepted before the return button is input with the second reception screen displayed on the display device, the amount to be paid by the second payment means is erasing means for erasing the back button from the second reception screen even if the amount is insufficient for the amount ;
Display means for calculating a payment amount by the second payment means and displaying the payment amount on the second reception screen after the return button is deleted from the second reception screen by the deletion means;
A payment device equipped with The second reception screen includes a clerk call button that is operated when calling a clerk, and after the return button is erased from the second reception screen by the erasing means, the operation mode is changed by the operation of the clerk. 2. The payment device according to claim 1, further comprising second return means for returning the screen of the display device from the second reception screen to the payment means selection screen by switching the screen to clerk mode. 3. The payment device according to claim 1, wherein the first payment means is a payment means capable of acquiring information of a settler who pays the price. 3. The payment device according to claim 1, wherein the second payment means is a payment means in which a medium input port for inputting the payment data and a medium payout port related to input of the payment data are different. . 5. The payment device according to claim 4, wherein the second payment means is a payment means using cash. Payment device computer with display device,
To accept a declaration to pay the price using one payment method from at least two payment methods: a second payment method that may lead to fraud in leaving the payment unpaid, and a first payment method other than the second payment method. a first reception means for displaying a payment means selection screen on the display device;
If a declaration to pay the price using the first payment method is accepted through the payment method selection screen, the screen is for accepting input of payment data using the first payment method, and cancels the previous operation. display on the display device a first reception screen that includes a back button that is operated to return to the previous screen, and declare that the payment will be made using the second payment method via the payment method selection screen. If accepted, a second reception means causes the display device to display a second reception screen that is a screen for accepting input of payment data by the second payment means and includes the return button;
If input of payment data by the first payment means is accepted while the first reception screen is displayed on the display device, the price is settled based on the payment data by the first payment means. However, if input of payment data by the second payment means is accepted while the second reception screen is displayed on the display device, the payment is made based on the payment data by the second payment means. payment method for paying
With the first reception screen displayed on the display device, if the return button is input before accepting input of payment data by the first payment means, the screen of the display device is displayed on the first reception screen. a first return means for returning from the reception screen to the payment means selection screen;
With the second reception screen displayed on the display device, if the return button is input before accepting input of payment data by the second payment means, the screen of the display device is displayed on the second reception screen. a second return means for returning from the reception screen to the payment means selection screen;
If input of payment data by the second payment means is accepted before the return button is input with the second reception screen displayed on the display device, the amount to be paid by the second payment means is erasing means for erasing the back button from the second reception screen even if the amount is insufficient for the amount ; and
display means for calculating a payment amount by the second payment means and displaying the payment amount on the second reception screen after the return button is deleted from the second reception screen by the deletion means;
Payment program to function as.