JP7511945B2 - Registration device and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a registration device and a program.

Currently, there are point-of-sales (POS) systems in which the registration device for registering products and the settlement device for settling the registered products are separate (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2011-158993 A

In the above-mentioned POS system, it is possible for customers to operate the payment device themselves, which is expected to reduce the workload of store clerks, but in reality, there is a problem in that the workload of store clerks is not reduced sufficiently.

The present invention was made in consideration of the above points, and its purpose is to provide technology that reduces the workload of store clerks.

In order to solve the above problems, the POS system according to one aspect of the present invention is a POS system having a registration device operated by a store clerk to register products to be purchased by a customer, and multiple settlement devices operated by customers themselves to settle the payment, the registration device has an input means for inputting a voucher amount, and a transmission means for transmitting transaction information corresponding to the voucher amount input by the input means so that the settlement device can settle the payment, the settlement device has a receiving means for receiving the transaction information transmitted from the registration device, and based on the transaction information received by the receiving means, different control is performed depending on whether the voucher amount input by the input means is greater than the transaction amount of the registered product or the transaction amount of the registered product is greater than the voucher amount input by the input means.

The present invention reduces the workload of store staff.

1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a POS system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a registration POS register in the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a settlement POS register in the present embodiment. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of a registration POS register and a settlement POS register in this embodiment. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of a registration POS register in this embodiment. 13 is an image diagram showing an example of a settlement slip issued by a registration POS register in this embodiment. 13 is an image diagram showing an example of a selection screen displayed by a registration POS register in this embodiment. An image diagram showing an example of a withdrawal instruction screen displayed by a registration POS register in this embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing the operational steps of a gift certificate settlement process executed by a registration POS register in this embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of a settlement POS register in the present embodiment.

The following describes an embodiment of the present invention with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an embodiment of a POS system 1 according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, in this embodiment, the POS system 1 includes a store controller 10, a registration POS register 20 (registration device), three settlement POS registers 30 (settlement devices), and a settlement monitoring device 40. The store controller 10, the registration POS register 20, the three settlement POS registers 30, and the settlement monitoring device 40 are interconnected by a wired or wireless LAN (Local Area Network) 11.

The configuration of the POS system 1 shown in FIG. 1 is one example, and it is possible to provide multiple registration POS registers 20, increase the number of settlement POS registers 30, or reduce the number of settlement POS registers 30 to two. Also, the store controller 10 does not necessarily need to be connected to the registration POS registers 20, the settlement POS registers 30, and the settlement monitoring device 40 via the LAN 11. In that case, data can be exchanged using power line communication that utilizes electrical wiring to achieve high-speed communication. It is also possible to omit the store controller 10 by having the registration POS registers 20 have the functions of the store controller 10.

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

The settlement monitoring device 40 is a device that mainly monitors the settlement status at the settlement POS register 30. For example, if there is an outstanding transaction that has not been settled even after a certain amount of time has passed since registration at the registration POS register 20 was completed, the settlement monitoring device 40 notifies the user of such a transaction in a specified display format. By looking at this display, the store clerk can understand the settlement status of all transactions that have been registered in the current store.

The registration POS register 20 performs a process of registering data on products that a customer wishes to purchase. The data is registered, for example, by reading a barcode attached to the product. For this reason, the registration POS register 20 is provided with a scanner that, when operated by a store clerk, reads the barcode (product code) attached to the product that the customer wishes to purchase. In this application, the data related to the products that is registered by the registration POS register 20 and used in the settlement process is referred to as transaction information. The transaction information includes the price of all the products to be purchased, i.e., the total price, and information on the unit price and quantity of each product.
In addition, the registration POS register 20 receives and manages status information from each settlement POS register 30 .

Furthermore, the registration POS register 20 selects the settlement POS register 30 to which the transaction information is to be sent, according to the status information. At that time, the registration POS register 20 determines, based on the status information, which settlement POS register 30 the customer currently registering the product should use to settle the payment, so as to minimize waiting time. That is, the registration POS register 20 selects the most suitable one from the multiple settlement POS registers 30. The registration POS register 20 selects, for example, an available settlement POS register 30. Alternatively, if all settlement POS registers 30 are occupied with customers, the registration POS register 20 selects the settlement device that is likely to become available first. Then, the registration POS register 20 transmits the transaction information to the selected settlement POS register 30. A customer who wishes to purchase the product indicated by the transaction information can operate the settlement POS register 30 to which the transaction information was transmitted and perform the settlement process himself. The checkout process is the process of paying for the product you wish to purchase by selectively using cash, electronic money, credit card, etc.

The status information indicates the progress of the settlement process in the settlement POS register 30. The progress is divided into statuses such as waiting, settlement, issuing a receipt, available, pending accounting, and trouble. Based on this progress, the registration POS register 20 performs a determination process to determine which settlement POS register 30 to select. For example, the registration POS register 20 preferentially selects an available settlement POS register 30. If there is no available settlement POS register 30, it selects one that is issuing a receipt. The above three progress statuses, waiting, settlement, and issuing a receipt, indicate the stage of settlement processing, and the progress status changes from waiting to settlement, and from settlement to issuing a receipt. Therefore, the status issuing a receipt is more advanced than the status issuing a settlement, and if there is no available POS register 30, the settlement POS register 30 that is likely to become available the soonest can be selected by selecting one that is issuing a receipt.

When the registration POS register 20 transmits the transaction information currently being registered to the settlement POS register 30 selected as described above, the following display process is performed. For example, the registration POS register 20 displays the status information received from each settlement POS register 30 on a display screen such as a touch panel of the registration POS register 20. This display may be performed not only when transmitting transaction information, but also during registration processing or during free time, and may be updated continuously or as needed. Furthermore, when the registration POS register 20 transmits transaction information, it displays the status information so that the store clerk or customer can understand which settlement POS register 30 the transaction information was transmitted to. For example, when the status information is displayed to the store clerk, the store clerk can verbally inform the customer. In this case, the display method is arbitrary. For example, the status information of each settlement POS register 30 can be displayed on a touch panel or the like installed toward the store clerk in the registration POS register 20, and the status information corresponding to the settlement POS register 30 that transmitted the status information can be highlighted. Also, a guide indicating the destination settlement POS register 30 may be displayed on a display unit of the registration POS register 20 facing the customer. Also, a receipt indicating the corresponding settlement POS register 30 (for example, a numbered receipt with the number of the settlement POS register 30 printed on it) may be issued and handed to the customer.

The selection of the checkout POS register 30 may be performed manually by a store clerk. For example, the store clerk may look at the status information, make a judgment, and select the checkout POS register 30 by pressing the checkout POS register 30 button selected on the touch panel. Also, to help the store clerk make a judgment, the status information may be displayed with emphasis on checkout POS registers 30 that are available (or look likely to be available).

The registration POS register 20 may also print all purchase details of the products purchased by the customer. In this case, the customer can check the registration details using the registration POS register 20 by looking at the printout before operating the checkout POS register 30 to perform the checkout process.

The registration POS register 20 also performs return processing for products that the customer has requested to be returned (hereinafter referred to as returned products). For example, the registration POS register 20 first inputs the transaction number printed on the receipt for the returned product, and then reads the barcode attached to the returned product. The transaction number is transaction identification information for identifying each transaction. The registration POS register 20 then reads out the transaction information corresponding to the input transaction number to identify the returned product, calculates the refund amount to be refunded to the customer, and generates refund information. The refund information is data for dispensing cash to the settlement POS register 30, including the refund amount. The registration POS register 20 then selects a settlement POS register 30 to refund the customer, and transmits the generated refund information to the selected settlement POS register 30. In addition, the registration POS register 20 determines the timing for the settlement POS register 30 to make a withdrawal based on the refund information in response to the operation of the store clerk, and transmits withdrawal instruction data to the selected settlement POS register 30 so that the settlement POS register 30 will make a withdrawal at the determined timing. The withdrawal instruction data is data that instructs the settlement POS register 30 to withdraw the amount based on the refund information.

When a customer requests payment using a gift certificate such as a rice coupon or gift certificate, the clerk receives the gift certificate from the customer at the registration POS register 20. The registration POS register 20 determines the amount to be settled at the settlement POS register 30 according to the amount of the gift certificate received by the clerk from the customer. For example, if the total amount of the registered products (hereinafter referred to as the transaction amount) is greater than the amount of the gift certificate (hereinafter referred to as the gift certificate amount), the registration POS register 20 sets the difference between the transaction amount and the gift certificate amount as the payment amount to be paid by the customer, adds the payment amount to the transaction information, and transmits it to the selected settlement POS register 30. Furthermore, if the transaction amount and the gift certificate amount are equal, the registration POS register 20 issues a receipt for the customer to take home. In this case, the customer does not need to go to the settlement POS register 30 to settle the payment. Furthermore, if the voucher amount is greater than the transaction amount, the registration POS register 20 determines the difference between the voucher amount and the transaction amount as the refund amount to be returned to the customer, and transmits refund information including the refund amount to the selected settlement POS register 30. In this case, the registration POS register 20 determines the timing for the settlement POS register 30 to make a withdrawal based on the refund information in response to the operation of the store clerk, and transmits withdrawal instruction data to the selected settlement POS register 30 so that the settlement POS register 30 will make a withdrawal at the determined timing.

The settlement POS register 30, on the other hand, is a device that customers operate to carry out settlement processing, and is equipped with payment devices such as an automatic change dispenser, a card reader (e.g., for credit cards and point cards), and an RF (Radio Frequency) reader (e.g., for electronic money). The settlement POS register 30 also transmits status information to the registration POS register 20 at any time.

In addition, when the checkout POS register 30 receives the transaction information from the registration POS register 20, it notifies (i.e., guides) the customer so that the customer knows that they should come to the checkout POS register 30. An example of such a notification is, for example, displaying text information such as a specified number on the entire screen of the display unit of the checkout POS register 30. This text information such as a number is information that the registration POS register 20 (or the store clerk operating the registration POS register 20) has separately notified to the customer. The customer then simply goes to the checkout POS register 30 that displays the number that the customer has been notified of. Another example of such a notification is to guide the customer by turning on a specified lamp on the checkout POS register 30. For example, the lamp may be lit in a specific color, and the customer may go to the checkout POS register 30 of the specified color. It may also be blinking. Another example of notification is to display the member card number on the screen of the settlement POS register 30. This member card number is read, for example, by the registration POS register 20. The customer goes to the settlement POS register 30 that is displaying their member card number.

In addition, the settlement POS register 30 goes into a standby state after the notification. That is, after the notification, the settlement POS register 30 goes into a standby state for an instruction to start the settlement process corresponding to the received transaction information. As an example of releasing the standby state, for example, when a customer touches the display screen of the settlement POS register 30 (or presses a button), the settlement process may start automatically. Until touched, nothing is displayed on the screen, or, for example, only a number is displayed as in the above notification example. Alternatively, the settlement POS register 30 may use a human detection sensor to detect whether a customer is approaching and then start the settlement process. In this case, too, the screen can be blank or display a number until detection. The settlement POS register 30 starts the settlement process when the human detection sensor detects the approach of a person. Alternatively, a camera can be used instead of the human detection sensor. For example, cameras could be installed at the settlement POS register 30 and the registration POS register 20, and the settlement process could begin only if facial recognition detects that the same person is approaching.

The flow of the settlement process for the checkout POS register 30 in standby mode can be, for example, as follows: (1) First, the payment method is selected. Either cash, credit card, electronic money, etc. or a combination of these is selected in response to the customer's operation. (2) Next, the settlement is executed. The settlement is executed by inserting cash into the bill and coin slot of the checkout POS register 30, paying the change, reading the card with a card reader, etc. (3) Next, a receipt is issued using the printing unit of the checkout POS register 30. For example, a list of purchased items, the total purchase amount, the amount received, the change, etc. are printed on the receipt. (4) Then, the checkout POS register 30 finishes the settlement process and becomes idle.

The payment method at the checkout POS register 30 may be declared at the registration POS register 20. In this case, the registration POS register 20 sends the payment method information to the checkout POS register 30, and the checkout POS register 30 starts processing from the operation (2) above.

When the settlement POS register 30 receives the above refund information based on a return or settlement using a voucher, it issues an alert (i.e., guidance to the customer) so that the customer knows to come to the settlement POS register 30. After issuing the alert, the settlement POS register 30 goes into a standby state. Then, when the standby state is released and the settlement POS register 30 receives the above withdrawal instruction data, it dispenses cash (banknotes and coins) from the change dispenser according to the refund amount based on the refund information.

Next, referring to Figures 2 to 4, an example of the configuration of the registration POS register 20 and the settlement POS register 30 in Figure 1 will be described. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the registration POS register 20. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the settlement POS register 30. And Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of the registration POS register 20 and the settlement POS register 30.

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

The ROM 202 is a read-only memory and stores programs in advance.
The CPU 201 is a central processing unit, and controls the operation of the registration POS register 20 by reading and executing a program stored in the ROM 202. For example, the CPU 201 (refund information generating means) generates refund information to be refunded to a customer in a predetermined process. The predetermined process is a return process for returning a product purchased by a customer, a process for settling a registered product with a cash voucher, etc. The CPU 201 (selecting means) also selects the settlement POS register 30 that should make a refund based on the refund information. The CPU 201 (withdrawal instruction means) also determines the timing of withdrawal based on the refund information. The CPU 201 (refund information transmitting means) also transmits the refund information via the communication unit 207 so that the selected settlement POS register 30 can make a refund.

The scanner unit 204 optically reads the barcode (product code) attached to the product.
The RAM 203 is a read/write memory that can be used at any time and stores various information. For example, the RAM 203 stores product information based on barcodes read by the scanner unit 204, status information received from the checkout POS register 30, etc. The RAM 203 may also store a history of which operation buttons have been operated.

The display unit (for store clerk) 205 and the display unit (for customer) 205a display various information. For example, the display unit (for store clerk) 205 and the display unit (for customer) 205a display information obtained from the product master (e.g., product name, price, etc.). The display unit (for store clerk) 205 is a touch panel (e.g., a liquid crystal touch panel) and displays various information for the store clerk. Furthermore, the display unit (for store clerk) 205 accepts operational input for pre-registered product information (product code, etc.) by operating operation buttons (preset buttons) displayed in an area within the screen.

The operation unit 206 has various operation buttons (subtotal key, current total key, number entry key, correction key, coupon key, preset key, etc.) for operating the registration POS register 20. For example, when an operation button (preset key) is operated, the operation unit 206 accepts operation input for product information (product code, etc.) that is previously set and registered in that preset key.

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

The printing unit 209 prints information indicating transaction information, etc. as necessary. However, in this embodiment, printing of transaction information can be omitted. As described above, the printing unit 209 may print information on a receipt (printing medium) indicating the settlement POS register 30 to which the transaction information (accounting data) selected according to the status information is to be sent.

The external configuration of the scanner unit 204, display unit (for store clerk) 205, operation unit 206, and printing unit 209 are shown in Figure 4.

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

The ROM 302 is a read-only memory that stores programs.
CPU 301 is a central processing unit, and controls the operation of settlement POS register 30 by reading and executing programs stored in ROM 302. For example, CPU 301 (receiving means) receives refund information via communication unit 307. Furthermore, CPU 301 (withdrawal means) causes a change dispenser provided in settlement unit 310 to dispense cash (banknotes or coins) corresponding to the amount to be refunded to a customer based on the received refund information, at a timing determined by registration POS register 20.

RAM 303 is a read/write memory that stores various information. For example, RAM 303 stores product master data acquired from store controller 10, and product purchase details indicated by a two-dimensional code or barcode read by scanner unit 304. An example of a case where a two-dimensional code or barcode is read by scanner unit 304 is when registration POS register 20 is unable to acquire status information of settlement POS register 30 for some reason (e.g., a problem is occurring), and therefore registration POS register 20 prints a two-dimensional code or barcode used for accounting on an accounting slip.

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

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

The communication unit 307 communicates with other devices via the LAN 11. For example, it connects to the store controller 10 and obtains the latest product master data from the store controller 10.

When an error or the like occurs, the buzzer 308 generates a buzzer sound to notify the user of the error.
When the payment process (i.e., the payment of the product purchase amount) is completed, the printing unit 309 prints and issues a payment receipt for the customer to take home.

The settlement unit 310 is configured with a change dispenser, a credit card reader, an electronic money reader, etc., and their respective control units, and settlement processing is performed using the settlement unit 310 with cash, credit, and electronic money. The settlement unit 310 executes settlement with cash using the change dispenser, and outputs the result of the settlement (for example, information indicating whether the settlement has been established) to the CPU 301 via the bus. The change dispenser is equipped with a bill insertion slot for inserting and ejecting bills, a coin insertion slot for inserting coins, and a change ejection slot for ejecting change. The settlement unit 310 also executes settlement with credit, and outputs the result of the settlement to the CPU 301 via the port and the bus. The settlement unit 310 also executes settlement with electronic money, and outputs the result of the settlement to the CPU 301 via the bus.

The sign pole 311 has indicator lights of multiple colors, and by turning on or blinking these indicator lights, it notifies users that the settlement POS register 30 is the selected device or that it can be operated.
The human detection sensor 312 (human presence sensor) is a sensor that detects the presence of a person (customer) within a specified range in front of the settlement POS register 30 .

The external configuration of the scanner unit 304, display unit 305, operation unit 306, printing unit 309, payment unit 310, and sign pole 311 is shown in Figure 4.

Next, the operation procedure of the registration POS register 20 of the POS system 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a flow chart showing the operation procedure of the registration POS register 20 in this embodiment.
First, the customer takes the product to be purchased to the registration POS register 20 operated by the store clerk. The CPU 201 judges whether the process is a registration process for registering the product to be purchased by the customer (step S1). The store clerk selects through the operation unit 206 whether the process is a registration process or a return process. If the process is a registration process for registering the product to be purchased (YES in step S1), the CPU 201 executes product registration by inputting the product code (step S2). That is, the CPU 201 writes the contents of the transaction information stored in the processing area of the RAM 203.

The CPU 201 determines whether product registration has been completed for all products purchased by the customer (step S3). For example, when the current total key is pressed, the CPU 201 determines that product registration has been completed for all products purchased by the customer. If product registration has not been completed (NO in step S3), the CPU 201 returns the process to step S2.

On the other hand, when product registration has been completed for all products (YES in step S3), the CPU 201 determines whether or not a gift certificate, such as a gift certificate or rice coupon, will be used to settle the transaction for which the products have been registered (step S4). If the customer requests settlement with a gift certificate, the store clerk presses the "gift certificate key." When the "gift certificate key" is pressed, the CPU 201 determines that a gift certificate will be used to settle the transaction. If a gift certificate will be used to settle the transaction (YES in step S4), the CPU 201 executes a gift certificate settlement process (step S5), and then ends the process. Details of the gift certificate settlement process will be described later.

On the other hand, if a cash voucher is not used for settlement (NO in step S4), the CPU 201 selects the settlement POS register 30 to which the transaction information is to be sent (step S6). Specifically, the CPU 201 refers to the status information of each settlement POS register 30 stored in a specified memory area of the RAM 203, and selects the settlement POS register 30 that has progressed the most in the settlement process (i.e., is free or is most likely to become free soon) based on the status information.

Next, the CPU 201 adds the confirmed transaction information to the log file in the RAM 203, associates the confirmed transaction information with the transaction number, and transmits the transaction information to the settlement POS register 30 selected in step S6 and the store controller 10 via the communication unit 207 (step S7). The store controller 10 writes the transaction information into the log file and stores it.

Next, the CPU 201 issues a payment slip (a numbered receipt with the number of the payment POS register 30 printed on it, a bill, or a POS register guide receipt) on which information indicating the destination payment POS register 30 is printed (step S8). More specifically, the CPU 201 causes the printing unit 209 to issue a receipt on which the number of the selected payment POS register 30 and the transaction number are printed, as shown in FIG. 6. The CPU 201 then ends the process (or may return to step S1).

Figure 6 is an image diagram showing an example of a settlement slip issued by the registration POS register 20 in this embodiment. In this Figure 6, the words "Please pay at register number 1" (see reference number 3051) are printed on the receipt as guidance to the settlement POS register 30 to which the slip is to be sent. In addition, "1234567" (see reference number 3052) is printed on the receipt as the transaction number.

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

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

Next, the CPU 201 inputs the code information attached to the returned product (step S13). For example, a store clerk, with the transaction information displayed on the screen, causes the scanner unit 204 to read the code information attached to the returned product.

The CPU 201 compares the code information attached to the returned product with the transaction information on the receipt (step S14) and checks whether the same code information (e.g., JAN code) exists in the transaction information on the receipt, i.e., whether the same product exists on the receipt (step S15). In other words, it checks whether the returned product is indeed the product listed on the receipt.

If the same code information does not exist (NO in step S15), the CPU 201 notifies the user of an error by displaying a warning on the display unit (for store clerk) 205 and the display unit (for customer) 205a, sounding the buzzer 208, or the like (step S16). The CPU 201 displays a message on the display unit (for store clerk) 205 and the display unit (for customer) 205a prompting the user to re-enter the number, and determines whether or not re-entering has been instructed (step S17). If the store clerk instructs the user to re-enter the number (YES in step S17), the CPU 201 returns to step S11 and starts the process again by inputting the transaction number written on the receipt. On the other hand, if the store clerk does not instruct the user to re-enter the number (NO in step S17), the CPU 201 ends the process (or may return to step S1).

On the other hand, if the same code information exists in the transaction information of the receipt (YES in step S15), the product is treated as a returned product, and the refund amount is calculated from the price and quantity of the returned product (step S18). Next, it is determined whether the "Deposit/Cash Total Key" has been pressed (step S19). Then, when the "Deposit/Cash Total Key" has been pressed (YES in step S19), the CPU 201 selects a settlement POS register 30 for the refund (step S20). Specifically, the CPU 201 refers to the status information of each settlement POS register 30 stored in a specified memory area of the RAM 203, and displays a selection screen for settlement POS registers 30 on the display unit (for store clerk) 205 as shown in FIG. 7. The store clerk selects a settlement POS register 30 for the refund while referring to the status information of each settlement POS register 30 displayed on the selection screen.

Figure 7 is an image diagram showing an example of a selection screen displayed by the registration POS register 20 in this embodiment. In the display example of Figure 7, "selection keys" 7001 to 7003 are displayed for selecting a settlement POS register 30 for making a refund. Each of the "selection keys" 7001 to 7003 displays the number and status information of the corresponding settlement POS register 30. The store clerk selects a settlement POS register 30 for making a refund by pressing one of the "selection keys" 7001 to 7003 displayed on the selection screen.

Next, the CPU 201 issues a return slip on which the number of the selected settlement POS register 30 and the transaction number are printed (step S21). The store clerk hands the issued return slip to the customer and instructs the customer to go to the selected settlement POS register 30. The customer takes the return slip and goes to the instructed settlement POS register 30.

Next, the CPU 201 displays a withdrawal instruction screen on the display unit (for store clerk) 205 as shown in FIG. 8, and determines whether the "confirmation key" displayed on the withdrawal instruction screen has been pressed (step 22). When the store clerk confirms that the customer has reached the settlement POS register 30, he or she presses the "confirmation key" displayed on the withdrawal instruction screen. When the "confirmation key" is pressed (YES in step S22), the CPU 201 additionally stores the refund information in the log file of the RAM 203, associates the refund information with the transaction number, and transmits the information to the store controller 10 and the selected settlement POS register 30 via the communication unit 207 (step S23). The refund information includes the refund amount calculated in step S18. At this time, the CPU 201 transmits the withdrawal instruction data together with the refund information to the settlement POS register 30. The store controller 10 writes and stores the refund information in a log file. The CPU 201 then ends the process (or may return to step S1).

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

Next, the cash voucher settlement process in step S5 in Fig. 5 will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a flow chart showing the operational procedure of the cash voucher settlement process executed by the registration POS register 20 in this embodiment.
First, the CPU 201 inputs the coupon amount, which is the amount of the coupon handed over by the customer to the store clerk (step S101). For example, the store clerk inputs the coupon amount by pressing the number of items placed + the "coupon key". Next, the CPU 201 compares the input coupon amount with the transaction amount, which is the total amount of the products registered in the transaction (step S102).

If the transaction amount is greater than the voucher amount, the CPU 201 subtracts the voucher amount from the transaction amount, determines the difference as the payment amount to be paid by the customer at the settlement POS register 30 (step S103), and writes the payment amount into the transaction information. Next, the CPU 201 selects the settlement POS register 30 to which the transaction information will be sent (step S104).

Next, the CPU 201 adds the confirmed transaction information to the log file in the RAM 203, associates the confirmed transaction information with the transaction number, and transmits the information to the settlement POS register 30 selected in step S104 and the store controller 10 via the communication unit 207 (step S105). The store controller 10 writes and stores the transaction information in the log file. Next, the CPU 201 issues a settlement slip (step S106). The CPU 201 then ends the process.

On the other hand, if the transaction amount is equal to the voucher amount, the CPU 201 stores the confirmed transaction information in the log file of the RAM 203, associates the confirmed transaction information with the transaction number, and transmits it to the store controller 10 via the communication unit 207 (step S107). Next, the CPU 201 issues a receipt by ejecting a paper medium on which the date and time, transaction number, purchased item, quantity, unit price, total amount, deposit amount, etc. are printed from the printing unit 209 (step S108). The store clerk hands the issued receipt to the customer and informs the customer that the settlement is complete. In other words, if the transaction amount is equal to the voucher amount, the customer can complete the settlement without going to the settlement POS register 30. Note that the above steps S107 to S108 are processed not only when the transaction amount is equal to the voucher amount, but also in stores that do not pay change if the voucher amount is greater than the transaction amount.

On the other hand, if the voucher amount is greater than the transaction amount, the CPU 201 determines the difference between the voucher amount and the transaction amount as the refund amount to be returned to the customer at the settlement POS register 30 (step S109). The CPU 201 writes the determined refund amount in the transaction information.

Next, the CPU 201 selects a settlement POS register 30 for making a refund (step S110). Specifically, the CPU 201 refers to the status information of each settlement POS register 30 stored in a specified memory area of the RAM 203, and displays a selection screen for settlement POS registers 30 on the display unit (for store clerk) 205, as shown in FIG. 7. The store clerk selects a settlement POS register 30 for making a refund while referring to the status information of each settlement POS register 30 displayed on the selection screen.

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

Next, the CPU 201 displays a withdrawal instruction screen on the display unit (for store clerk) 205 as shown in FIG. 8, and determines whether the "confirmation key" displayed on the withdrawal instruction screen has been pressed (step 112). When the store clerk confirms that the customer has reached the front of the settlement POS register 30, he or she presses the "confirmation key" displayed on the withdrawal instruction screen. When the "confirmation key" is pressed (YES in step S112), the CPU 201 adds the confirmed transaction information to the log file of the RAM 203, associates the transaction information to which the refund information has been added with the transaction number, and transmits the transaction information to the store controller 10 and the selected settlement POS register 30 via the communication unit 207 (step S113). The refund information includes the refund amount calculated in step S109. At this time, the CPU 201 transmits the withdrawal instruction data together with the refund information to the settlement POS register 30. The store controller 10 writes and stores the transaction information in a log file. The CPU 201 then ends the process.

When a customer uses the registration POS register 20 to register the product they are purchasing, they receive a checkout slip and go to the checkout POS register 30 with the number printed on the checkout slip. When a customer uses the registration POS register 20 to return a product, they receive a return slip and go to the checkout POS register 30 with the number printed on the return slip. If a return slip is not issued, the checkout POS register 30 may call the customer. When the customer is called, he or she goes to the called checkout POS register 30. Alternatively, identification information such as a number to guide and guide the customer may be displayed on the screen of the checkout POS register 30, and a store clerk may guide the customer to the checkout POS register 30.

Next, the operation procedure of the settlement POS register 30 of the POS system 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a flow chart showing the operation procedure of the settlement POS register 30 according to this embodiment.
First, the CPU 301 judges whether or not transaction information has been received (step S201). If transaction information has been received (YES in step S201), the CPU 301 notifies the user that the transaction information has been received and transitions to a standby state for settlement processing (step S202).

When a customer arrives at the checkout POS register 30 and performs a predetermined operation on the operation unit 306, etc., or when the human approach is detected by the human detection sensor 312, the CPU 301 starts the checkout process (step S203). In the checkout process, the operation method is displayed on the display unit 305, and the customer selects a payment method and makes a payment using the selected payment method in response to the customer's operation. When the checkout process using the predetermined payment method is completed at the checkout POS register 30, the CPU 301 issues a receipt by ejecting a paper medium from the printing unit 309 on which the date and time, transaction number, purchased item, quantity, unit price, total amount, deposit amount, etc. are printed (step S204). The CPU 301 then ends the process (or may return to step S201).

On the other hand, if the transaction information has not been received (No in step S201), the CPU 301 judges whether or not the refund information has been received (step S211). If the refund information has not been received (No in step S211), the CPU 301 returns to the process of step S201.
On the other hand, if refund information has been received (Yes in step S211), the CPU 301 notifies the user that the transaction information has been received, and transitions to a standby state for settlement processing (step S212).

When a customer arrives at the settlement POS register 30 and performs a predetermined operation on the operation unit 306 or the human approach is detected by the human detection sensor 312, the CPU 301 releases the standby state and determines whether or not it has received a withdrawal instruction data (step S213). If it has received a withdrawal instruction data (Yes in step S213), the CPU 301 performs a refund process (calculation of the currency type according to the refund amount) based on the received refund information and displays the refund amount on the display unit 305 (step S214). The CPU 301 then dispenses bills or coins according to the refund amount from the change dispenser provided in the settlement unit 310 (step S215).
Next, the CPU 301 adds information indicating completion of the return processing to the return information, stores the information as return processing completion information, and transmits the information to the store controller 10 (step S216). The store controller 10 writes and stores the refund processing completion information in a log file. The CPU 201 then issues a receipt by ejecting a paper medium, on which the date and time, transaction number, purchased item, quantity, unit price, total amount, deposit amount, etc. are printed, from the printing unit 309 (step S217). The CPU 301 then ends the process (or may return to step S201).

In this way, according to this embodiment, when a return or "change transaction" occurs, the store clerk designates the settlement POS register 30 to which the refund is to be made at the registration POS register 20, and the designated settlement POS register 30 dispenses the change. This allows the store clerk to dispense the change without having to go to the settlement POS register 30 and operate it.

If the settlement POS register 30 dispenses change immediately after the registration POS register 20 specifies the settlement POS register 30, a third party may take the dispensed change while the customer is moving from the registration POS register 20 to the settlement POS register 30, creating a crime prevention problem. In response to this, according to this embodiment, the registration POS register 20 displays a confirmation screen when sending withdrawal information for a withdrawal transaction, and prompts the customer to wait until the move. Then, the registration POS register 20 issues a withdrawal instruction when the store clerk confirms that the customer has moved to the settlement POS register 30 and is standing in front of the settlement POS register 30 and presses the "confirmation key". When a withdrawal instruction is received, the settlement POS register 30 dispenses based on the withdrawal information. This improves safety because the store clerk can visually confirm that the customer has reached the settlement POS register 30 before withdrawing money.

The above describes an embodiment of the present invention in detail with reference to the drawings, but the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and includes designs that do not deviate from the gist of the present invention.

For example, in the embodiment described above, when the "confirmation key" is pressed, the registration POS register 20 transmits the withdrawal instruction data at the same time as the refund information such as the transaction number and the refund amount, but this is not limited to this. The refund information may be transmitted when the settlement POS register 30 is selected and designated, and then the withdrawal instruction data may be transmitted separately by pressing the confirmation key.

In this case, when the human detection sensor 312 equipped on the settlement POS register 30 reacts, the confirmation key may be displayed in a different manner (blinking, changing color), or a sound may be emitted from near the registration POS register 20, or a vibrator may be used to notify the user. Specifically, when the settlement POS register 30 detects a person using the human detection sensor 312 after receiving the refund information, it transmits the detection information to the registration POS register 20 that sent the withdrawal information. When the registration POS register 20 receives the detection information, it notifies the user using one of the above methods (such as displaying the confirmation key in a different manner (blinking, changing color), outputting a sound from near the registration POS register 20, or vibrating the vibrator). In this case, even if the store clerk is serving the next customer, the store clerk is notified by a conspicuous display screen, sound, or vibrator, so that the store clerk can know that a customer who needs change is standing in front of the settlement POS register 30. This will improve the efficiency of registration and settlement.

In addition, in the above-described embodiment, a confirmation key (withdrawal instruction key) is displayed on the screen, but this is not limiting, and the withdrawal instruction key may be assigned to one of the keyboards (mechanical keys) provided on the operation unit 206.

In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the store clerk selects the settlement POS register 30 from which to withdraw money on the selection screen, but the registration POS register 20 may automatically select the settlement POS register 30 based on the status information of each settlement POS register 30.

In the above embodiment, the registration POS register 20 designates the settlement POS register 30, but this is not limiting, and the settlement monitoring device 40 that monitors the settlement status of the settlement device, or the store controller 10 may designate the POS register. In other words, the "refund information generation means," "selection means," "withdrawal instruction means," and "refund information transmission means" may be provided in a device other than the registration POS register 20 (the service counter register, the settlement monitoring device 40, or the store controller 10). This allows not only the clerk in charge of the registration POS register 20, but also the clerk in charge of the settlement monitoring device 40 or the store controller 10 to handle returns and the like.

The program for implementing the POS register (the registration POS register or the settlement POS register) and POS system described above may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program recorded on the recording medium may be read into a computer system and executed to perform the execution process. Note that the "computer system" referred to here may include hardware such as the OS and peripheral devices.

In addition, if a WWW system is used, the term "computer system" also includes the homepage provision environment (or display environment). Furthermore, "computer-readable recording media" refers to storage devices such as flexible disks, optical magnetic disks, ROMs, writable non-volatile memories such as flash memory, portable media such as CD-ROMs, and hard disks built into computer systems.

Furthermore, the term "computer-readable recording medium" also includes a storage medium that holds a program for a certain period of time, such as a volatile memory (e.g., a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory)) within a computer system that serves as a server or client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line.
The program may be transmitted from a computer system in which the program is stored in a storage device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium, or by a transmission wave in the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" that transmits the program refers to a medium that has a function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet or a communication line (communication line) such as a telephone line.
The program may be a program for implementing part of the above-mentioned functions, or may be a so-called differential file (differential program) that can implement the above-mentioned functions in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system.

(Appendix 1)
A POS system having a registration device which registers products to be purchased by a customer, and a plurality of settlement devices which perform settlement based on transaction information of the products registered by the registration device, the POS system further comprising a refund information generating means which generates refund information to be refunded to a customer in a specified process, a selection means which selects a settlement device which should perform a refund based on the refund information, and a refund information transmitting means which transmits the refund information so that the refund can be performed by the selected settlement device, the settlement device further comprising a receiving means which receives the refund information, and a withdrawal means which withdraws money in accordance with the amount to be refunded to the customer based on the refund information received by the receiving means.

(Appendix 2)
The POS system described in Appendix 1 further comprises a withdrawal instruction means for determining the timing of withdrawal based on the refund information, and the withdrawal means withdraws money according to the amount to be refunded to the customer based on the refund information received by the receiving means at the timing determined by the withdrawal instruction means.

(Appendix 3)
The POS system described in Appendix 2 is characterized in that the settlement device is equipped with a human presence sensor that detects a person, and a detection information transmission means that transmits detection information to the registration device when the human presence sensor detects a person after receiving the refund information, and the registration device is equipped with an alarm means that issues an alarm when it receives the detection information from the settlement device.

(Appendix 4)
The POS system described in any one of Appendices 1 to 3 is characterized in that the registration device is equipped with an acquisition means for acquiring status information regarding the settlement process from each of the settlement devices, and a display means for displaying the status information when selected by the selection means.

(Appendix 5)
5. The POS system according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined process is a process related to the return of an item purchased by the customer.

(Appendix 6)
5. A POS system as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the predetermined process is a process of settling the registered merchandise in the registration device using a cash voucher.

10...store controller, 11...LAN, 20...POS register for registration, 30...POS register for settlement, 201...CPU, 202...ROM, 203...RAM, 204...scanner unit, 205...display unit (for store clerk), 205a...display unit (for customers), 206...operation unit, 207...communication unit, 208...buzzer, 209...printing unit, 301...CPU, 302...ROM, 303...RAM, 304...scanner unit, 305...display unit, 306...operation unit, 307...communication unit, 308...buzzer, 309...printing unit, 310...payment unit, 311...sign pole, 312...human detection sensor

Claims (3)

A registration device in a system having a registration device operated by a store clerk to register products and a payment device operated by a customer to make a payment,
A transmitting means for transmitting transaction information so that the transaction can be settled by the settlement device;
a refund information generating means for receiving a coupon amount, calculating the difference between the coupon amount and the total price of the registered products, and generating refund information including the amount to be refunded to the customer;
a refund information transmitting means for transmitting the refund information so that the refund can be made by the settlement device;
Equipped with
The refund information sending means is
Transmitting the refund information so that the refund is made at a payment device selected based on an operation by a store clerk;
The transmitting means is
The transaction information is transmitted so that the transaction is settled at a settlement device selected based on information indicating the status of each settlement device without the operation of a store clerk.
A registration device comprising: A selection means for accepting the selection of a settlement device via a selection screen for accepting the selection of a settlement device
Equipped with
The refund information sending means is
transmitting the refund information so that the refund will be made at a payment device selected based on an operation by a store clerk on the selection screen;
2. The registration device according to claim 1 , wherein the selection screen displays the status of each settlement device . A program for causing a computer to function as a registration device in a system having a registration device operated by a store clerk to register products and a payment device operated by a customer to make a payment, comprising:
The computer,
A transmitting means for transmitting transaction information so that the transaction can be settled by the settlement device;
a refund information generating means for receiving a coupon amount, calculating the difference between the coupon amount and the total price of the registered products, and generating refund information including the amount to be refunded to the customer;
A refund information transmitting means for transmitting the refund information so that the refund can be made by the settlement device.
Function as a
The refund information sending means is
Transmitting the refund information so that the refund is made at a payment device selected based on an operation by a store clerk;
The transmitting means is
The transaction information is transmitted so that the transaction is settled at a settlement device selected based on information indicating the status of each settlement device without the operation of a store clerk.
program.

Images