JP7588813B2 - Payment system, payment device, program - Google Patents

Description

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

Multiple services related to the sale of goods may coexist. For example, a system that provides multiple payment methods in a store is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2016-081072 A

However, problems may arise where the service is not used as intended.

One aspect of the present invention that solves the above-mentioned problems is a settlement system that includes a first settlement means that performs settlement processing based on registered product information, a second settlement means that is different from the first settlement means, and an output means that outputs information about the second settlement means when settlement is performed by the first settlement means.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a product sales data processing system. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the state near the entrance of a store that has mobile terminals installed. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a mobile terminal placed in a shopping cart. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a settlement device. 1 is an example of information stored in a transaction management device. A sequence diagram showing an example of processing by a mobile terminal, a settlement device, and a transaction management device. 13 is a display example on a display unit of a mobile terminal. 13 shows examples of displays on a display unit of a mobile terminal. 13 is an example of a display on the display unit of a settlement device. 13 is an example of a display on the display unit of a settlement device. 13 is an example of a display on the display unit of a settlement device. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of a registration settlement device. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a registration settlement device. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the registration settlement device. 2A and 2B are diagrams illustrating examples of the appearance of a registration device and a settlement device. FIG. 2 illustrates an example of the configuration of a registration device. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a settlement device. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the registration device and the settlement device. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of a registration settlement device. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a registration settlement device. 13 is an example of a display on the display unit of a registration settlement device. 1 is an example of a receipt. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the registration settlement device. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the registration settlement device.

Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of a product sales data processing system 1 of this embodiment. The product sales data processing system 1 includes a management device 10 (e.g., a store controller), a transaction management device 20 (e.g., a cloud server installed outside a data center or the like. It may be a server prepared by the user), a registration settlement device 30, a registration settlement device 31, a registration device 32, a settlement device 33, a registration settlement device 34, a settlement device 40, a monitoring device 50 (e.g., a personal computer, etc.), a mobile terminal 60, and a registration terminal 62. The management device 10, the registration settlement device 30, the registration settlement device 31, the registration device 32, the settlement device 33, the registration settlement device 34, the settlement device 40, and the monitoring device 50 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other via a LAN 19 (which may be wired or wireless). The management device 10 is capable of communicating with the transaction management device 20. The product sales data processing system 1 can be introduced into various stores, etc. (supermarkets, convenience stores, drug stores, home centers, home appliance retailers, etc.).

In FIG. 1, the number of each device (terminal) is an example. For example, one registration and settlement device 30 is illustrated in FIG. 1, but the number of registration and settlement devices 30 installed in one store may be two or more. Also, for example, two mobile terminals 60 are illustrated in FIG. 1, but the number of mobile terminals 60 used in the store changes depending on the number of customers. The same applies to the other devices (terminals).

1 includes a registration and settlement device 30, a registration and settlement device 31, a registration device 32, a settlement device 33, a registration and settlement device 34, a settlement device 40, a mobile terminal 60, and a registration terminal 62 as devices having at least one of a registration function and a settlement function, but for ease of explanation, they are classified into the following six groups A to F. Note that the settlement device 40 may be part of either group A or group B.
(Group A) Mobile terminal 60, settlement device 40
(Group B) Registration terminal 62, settlement device 40
(Group C) Registration settlement device 30
(Group D) Registration settlement device 31
(Group E) Registration device 32, settlement device 33
(Group F) Registration settlement device 34

(Overview of the mobile terminal 60 and settlement device 40 (Group A))
Group A is composed of one or more mobile terminals 60 and one or more settlement devices 40. The mobile terminals 60 are used when registering products in the store (specifically, the display positions of each product). The mobile terminals 60 are used by customers. The mobile terminals 60 are owned by the customers themselves (such as personal smartphones). The mobile terminals 60 are placed in the shopping cart 70 (the mobile terminals 60 are set in the holders 71) (see Figures 2 and 3).

The settlement device 40 is installed in the checkout area (the place in the store where checkout takes place) and is used when settling for products registered using the mobile terminal 60. The settlement device 40 is mainly used by customers. If a store clerk is required to assist with the settlement, a store clerk may be called and the called store clerk may operate the settlement device 40. The same applies to other devices operated by customers. The settlement device 40 is also used when settling for products registered using the registration terminal 62, as described below.

In other words, Group A is configured for full self-service operation (registering products at each display location) in which the customer registers the product using the mobile terminal 60 and pays for it using the payment device 40.

(Overview of the registration terminal 62 and settlement device 40 (Group B))
Group B is composed of one or more registration terminals 62 and one or more settlement devices 40. The registration terminal 62 is used when registering products within the store (specifically, the display position of each product). The registration terminal 62 is used by customers. The registration terminal 62 is owned by the store (loaned to customers who visit the store, such as a tablet terminal). The registration terminal 62 is installed (for example, permanently installed) in the shopping cart 72.

The settlement device 40 is installed in the accounting area (the place in the store where payments are made) and is used to settle payments for products registered using the registration terminal 62. The settlement device 40 is primarily used by customers. Note that the settlement device 40 is also used to settle payments for products registered using the mobile terminal 60 as described above.

In other words, Group B is configured for full self-service operation (registering products at each display location) in which the customer registers the product using the registration terminal 62 and pays for it using the payment device 40.

(Overview of the registered settlement device 30 (group C))
Group C is made up of one or more registration and settlement devices 30. The registration and settlement devices 30 are installed in the checkout area and are used to register products and settle payments. The registration and settlement devices 30 are used by store clerks.

In other words, group C is a non-self-operated configuration in which a store clerk uses the registration and settlement device 30 to register and settle products.

(Overview of the registered settlement device 31 (Group D))
Group D is made up of one or more registration and settlement devices 31. The registration and settlement devices 31 are installed in the checkout area and are used to register products and settle payments. The registration and settlement devices 31 are mainly used by customers.

In other words, Group D is configured for full self-service operation (where products are registered all at once in the checkout area) in which customers use the registration and settlement device 31 to register and settle products.

(Overview of the registration device 32 and the settlement device 33 (Group E))
Group E is made up of one or more registration devices 32 and one or more settlement devices 33. The registration devices 32 are installed in the accounting area and are used to register products. The registration devices 32 are used by store clerks.

The settlement device 33 is installed in the accounting area and is used to settle payments for products registered using the registration device 32. The settlement device 33 is mainly used by customers.

In other words, Group E is a semi-self-service configuration in which a store clerk uses the registration device 32 to register products and the customer uses the payment device 33 to make payment.

(Overview of the registered settlement device 34 (Group F))
Group F is composed of one or more registration and settlement devices 34. The registration and settlement devices 34 are installed in the checkout area and are used at least when registering products or when settling. The registration and settlement devices 34 are used by store clerks or customers. Specifically, the registration and settlement devices 34 are equipped with a display unit and a scanner unit on each side (store clerk side, customer side), and a payment unit (card payment unit, cash payment unit) on one side (customer side). The registration and settlement devices 34 have multiple operating modes that can be switched depending on, for example, the operating status, etc. Specifically, they have the following operating modes.

(Semi-self-operation mode using one device (face-to-face))
As a first operation mode, the registration and settlement device 34 has an operation mode in which a store clerk uses one side (store clerk side) of the registration and settlement device 34 to register merchandise, and a customer uses the other side (customer side) of the registration and settlement device 34 to make payment. That is, in this operation mode, the store clerk and the customer face each other across the registration and settlement device 34, the store clerk registers merchandise, and the customer makes payment. In other words, this operation mode is, so to speak, a face-to-face semi-self-service configuration using one registration and settlement device 34.

(Full self-operation mode)
As a second operation mode, the registration and settlement device 34 has an operation mode in which a customer registers products and makes a payment using one side (customer side) of the registration and settlement device 34. That is, this operation mode is an operation mode in which a customer registers products and makes a payment by himself/herself without using the other side (store clerk side) of the registration and settlement device 34. That is, this operation mode is, so to speak, a configuration for full self-operation.

(Semi-self-operation mode with multiple units)
As a third operation mode, the registration and settlement device 34 has an operation mode in which a store clerk registers a commodity using one side (the store clerk side) of the registration and settlement device 34. In other words, this is an operation mode in which a store clerk registers a commodity without using the other side (the customer side) of the registration and settlement device 34.

As a fourth operating mode, the registration settlement device 34 has an operating mode in which the customer settles the bill using one side (customer side) of the registration settlement device 34. In other words, this is an operating mode in which the customer settles the bill without using the other side (clerk side) of the registration settlement device 34.

The registered settlement device 34 in the third operation mode transmits registration data to the other registered settlement device 34 (registered settlement device 34 in the fourth operation mode) (either indirectly via another device or directly) to cause the other registered settlement device 34 (registered settlement device 34 in the third operation mode) to settle the merchandise registered by the registered settlement device 34 (registered settlement device 34 in the third operation mode). In other words, the registered settlement device 34 in the fourth operation mode receives (either indirectly via another device or directly) the registration data transmitted by the other registered settlement device 34 (registered settlement device 34 in the third operation mode) to settle the merchandise registered by the other registered settlement device 34 (registered settlement device 34 in the third operation mode). In other words, the third and fourth operating modes are, so to speak, semi-self-operation configurations using multiple registered settlement devices 34 (one or more registered settlement devices 34 in the third operating mode, and one or more registered settlement devices 34 in the fourth operating mode).

The registered settlement device 34 in the third operation mode may issue a medium (receipt (registered trademark)) on which a code (barcode, two-dimensional code, etc.) that can be read by the other registered settlement device 34 (registered settlement device 34 in the fourth operation mode) to obtain registration data, thereby causing the other registered settlement device 34 (registered settlement device 34 in the third operation mode) to settle the merchandise registered by the registered settlement device 34 (registered settlement device 34 in the fourth operation mode). In other words, the registered settlement device 34 in the fourth operation mode may settle the merchandise registered by the other registered settlement device 34 (registered settlement device 34 in the third operation mode) by reading a code (barcode, two-dimensional code, etc.) printed on a receipt issued by the other registered settlement device 34 (registered settlement device 34 in the third operation mode).

Note that the operation of the registered settlement device 34 in each operation mode is an example. For example, the registered settlement device 34 in the third operation mode may transmit registration data to other registered settlement devices 34 (registered settlement devices 34 in the first and second operation modes) or issue a bill. In other words, the registered settlement device 34 (for example, the registered settlement device 34 in the first and second operation modes) may settle for products registered by other registered settlement devices (registered settlement device 34 in the third operation mode). Also, for example, the registered settlement device 34 in the first operation mode may transmit registration data to other registered settlement devices 34 (registered settlement devices 34 in the first, second, and fourth operation modes) or issue a bill. In other words, a registered settlement device 34 (e.g., a registered settlement device 34 in the first, second, or fourth operating mode) may settle for products registered by another registered settlement device (a registered settlement device 34 in the first operating mode).

The management device 10 is a device that manages various devices that are mainly installed in a store. For example, the management device 10 has a communication function with an external device, and receives a product file (product master) from an external device (e.g., a headquarters server not shown, which may be the transaction management device 20) and supplies it to the registered settlement device 30, etc., or receives transaction information from the settlement device 40, etc. and transmits it to an external device (e.g., the transaction management device 20, etc.).

The transaction management device 20 is a server that provides various services. For example, the transaction management device 20 manages various information corresponding to self-operation (e.g., transaction information (cart information), etc.).

The monitoring device 50 is a device that mainly monitors various devices within the LAN 19. The monitoring device 50 monitors the operating status of other devices (e.g., the registration settlement device 30, the settlement device 40, etc.), displays various information on the other devices, and outputs various commands to the other devices.

As an example of the configuration of the product sales data processing system 1, FIG. 1 illustrates a configuration including registration and settlement devices 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 40, mobile terminal 60, and registration terminal 62 as devices having registration or settlement functions, but the product sales data processing system 1 does not necessarily have to include all of these. Specifically, the product sales data processing system 1 needs to have at least two of the six groups A to F described above.

Because there are many combinations when extracting two or more groups from the six groups, only the following two examples are given. First, the product sales data processing system 1 may have two groups, A and B. In other words, the product sales data processing system 1 may have a mobile terminal 60, a registration terminal 62, and a settlement device 40 as devices having a registration function or a settlement function. Second, the product sales data processing system 1 may have three groups, A, C, and E. In other words, the product sales data processing system 1 may have a mobile terminal 60, a settlement device 40, a registration settlement device 30, a registration device 32, and a settlement device 33 as devices having a registration function or a settlement function.

(Full self-service operation using the mobile terminal 60 and the settlement device 40)
Of the above-mentioned groups A to F, group A, that is, full self-service operation using mobile terminal 60 and settlement device 40 (a mode in which products are registered at each display position), will be described below.

The mobile terminal 60 has a communication function, an imaging function (camera), and a recognition function for recognizing various codes (barcodes, two-dimensional codes, etc.). For example, the mobile terminal 60 recognizes the barcode attached to a product. In other words, the mobile terminal 60 reads product identification information (product code). The mobile terminal 60 may extract feature points in an image captured by the imaging function (an image acquired as a through image) and recognize objects (various codes). In addition, a shopping application (an application for using the shopping service provided by the transaction management device 20) is installed on the mobile terminal 60. The mobile terminal 60 displays, for example, various screens using the shopping application.

Figure 2 shows an example of the state near the entrance of a store that has introduced mobile terminals 60. As shown in Figure 2, near the entrance (or the entrance if the entrance and exit are separate), rental shopping carts 70, rental shopping baskets 80, and shopping bags 90 for sale are prepared (shopping bags 90 are not necessary if, for example, a customer brings their own bag). When a customer visits the store, they place their shopping basket 80 in the shopping cart 70, place their shopping bag 90 in the shopping basket 80, and proceed inside the store. At this time, customers who wish to shop using full self-service operation using the mobile terminal 60 place their mobile terminal 60 in the shopping cart 70.

Figure 3 is a diagram explaining the mobile terminal 60 set in the shopping cart 70. Figure 3 (A) is a diagram showing the mobile terminal 60 set in the shopping cart 70 as viewed from the side. Figure 3 (B) is a diagram showing the mobile terminal 60 set in the shopping cart 70 as viewed from above.

As shown in FIG. 3(A), a holder 71 for setting a mobile terminal 60 is attached to the top of the shopping basket 80 of the shopping cart 70. When a customer comes to the store, he or she sets the mobile terminal 60 in the holder 71. As shown in FIG. 3(B), the mobile terminal 60 set in the holder 71 captures an image of the shopping basket 80 (shopping bag 90) from above using an imaging unit.

Figure 4 is a diagram explaining the settlement device 40. Figure 4 (A) is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the settlement device 40 (front view seen from the customer side). Figure 4 (B) is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the settlement device 40. In Figures 4 (A) and 4 (B), the same parts are given the same reference numerals.

Below, an example of the configuration of the settlement device 40 shown in FIG. 4(B) will be described with reference to FIG. 4(A). The settlement device 40 comprises a CPU 401, a ROM 402, a RAM 403, a hard disk 404, a display unit 405, a scanner unit 406, a card payment unit 408, a change dispenser 409, a printing unit 413, an audio output unit 414, a communication unit 415, and an imaging unit 416 (camera). These can communicate with each other via a bus. The settlement device 40 may further include a key operation unit and an alarm unit (for example, a lamp on a sign pole, etc.).

The CPU 401 is a central processing unit, and controls the operation of the settlement device 40 by reading and executing programs stored in the ROM 402 .
The ROM 402 is a read-only memory, and stores various types of information used by the CPU 401, including programs.

RAM 403 is a read/write memory, and stores various information as a main storage device. For example, RAM 403 stores information read from ROM 402 or hard disk 404, information acquired from the outside, information generated during processing, etc.

The hard disk 404 stores various information as an auxiliary storage device. For example, the hard disk 404 may store programs executed by the CPU 401 instead of the ROM 402. Also, instead of the RAM 403, the hard disk 404 may store information read from the ROM 402, information obtained from the outside, information generated during processing, etc. Note that a storage device such as an SSD (Solid State Drive) may be provided instead of the hard disk 404.

The display unit 405 is a touch display that displays various information and accepts various inputs.

The scanner unit 406 optically reads various information. For example, the scanner unit 406 scans a code (barcode, two-dimensional code, etc.) displayed on the display unit of the mobile terminal 60 and reads the information required for the settlement process. The scanner unit 406 may also scan a code printed on a receipt issued by another device (for example, the registered settlement device 30) and read the information required for the settlement process. The scanner unit 406 may also scan a code attached to a product and read the product code. The scanner unit 406 may also scan a code attached to a store clerk's name tag and read the store clerk code. The scanner unit 406 may also scan codes attached to gift certificates (gift certificates, coupons, complimentary tickets) and various cards (for example, membership cards, point cards, etc.) and read the respective information.

The card payment unit 408 is a payment mechanism that uses various cards (credit cards, prepaid cards such as transportation cards, cash cards for debit payments, point cards for point payments, etc.). The card payment unit 408 is equipped with a card recognition unit (reading unit), a display unit, and an operation unit, but it is sufficient that it is equipped with at least the card recognition unit. The card recognition unit may recognize various cards (e.g., point cards, membership cards, shareholder cards, etc.) for the purpose of granting benefits, discounts, etc.

The change dispenser 409 (cash settlement unit) is a cash settlement mechanism that has an input port for banknotes and coins and an output port for banknotes and coins, calculates the amount of money inserted into the input port, calculates the change amount, which is the difference between the input amount and the purchase amount, and outputs the change from the output port. When banknotes or coins are inserted into the input port, they are detected by a sensor (detecting that they have been inserted, detecting the number of coins by denomination, etc.).

The printing unit 413 prints and issues various media (receipts, etc.).
The audio output unit 414 outputs audio. For example, the audio output unit 414 outputs a confirmation sound, a warning sound, audio guidance, etc.
The communication unit 415 transmits and receives information to and from other devices.
The imaging unit 416 is provided to capture an image of, for example, the hands of a customer operating the change machine.

Figure 5 is an example of information stored by the transaction management device 20. Figure 5 (A) shows an example of customer information stored by the transaction management device 20. The customer information shown in Figure 5 (A) includes customer identification information, customer name, customer registration date, cancellation information, customer rank, number of points, etc. The customer identification information is identification information that uniquely identifies a customer. As the customer identification information (or instead of the customer identification information), for example, application identification information that is uniquely (for example, sequentially) assigned to each installed shopping application may be used. Also, as the customer identification information (or instead of the customer identification information), terminal identification information unique to the mobile terminal 60 on which the shopping application is installed may be used. The terminal identification information may be hardware identification information uniquely assigned to the hardware of the mobile terminal 60, such as a telephone number assigned to a customer who is a user of the mobile terminal 60, or a MAC (Media Access Control) address. The customer name is the customer's name or nickname. The customer registration date is the date and time of customer registration. The cancellation information is information regarding the cancellation (cancellation) of a registered product after registration. Customer rank is a rank according to the customer's purchasing history. When generating customer information for a new customer, customer identification information, customer name, and customer registration date are generated, but since this is before the start of actual transactions (product registration), other information (cancellation information, etc.) is not generated.

The transaction management device 20 generates and stores customer identification information, for example, when registering a customer (for example, when the mobile terminal 60 downloads or installs a shopping application from an external device (for example, a specified server that provides all applications, the transaction management device 20)). In addition, the transaction management device 20 acquires information entered into the name field of a registration form (input form) using the mobile terminal 60, for example, when registering a customer, and stores it as the customer name. In addition, the transaction management device 20 acquires the current date and time when registering the customer, and stores it as the customer registration date.

In addition, instead of or in addition to storing the customer information in its own memory, the transaction management device 20 may store some or all of the customer information in another device (such as a file server accessible to the transaction management device 20).

Figure 5 (B) shows an example of store information stored by the transaction management device 20. The store information shown in Figure 5 (B) includes store identification information, store name (branch name), store specific information 1, and store specific information 2. Store identification information is identification information that uniquely identifies a store. Store name is the name of the store. Store specific information 1 is information on a two-dimensional code (QR code (registered trademark), etc.) for identifying the store in which the transaction takes place (the store where the product is bought and sold). Store specific information 2 is store location information (GPS information) for identifying the store in which the transaction takes place. Note that in the example shown in Figure 5 (B), the store identification information and store specific information 1 are different, but the store identification information and store specific information 1 may be the same.

The transaction management device 20 may obtain and store store information from an external source (such as a server (not shown) at a headquarters that manages each store). Also, instead of or in addition to storing the store information in its own memory, the transaction management device 20 may store some or all of the store information in another device (such as a file server accessible by the transaction management device 20).

Figure 5 (C) is an example of cart information stored by the transaction management device 20. Cart information is information for managing individual transactions. The transaction management device 20 generates cart information at the start of a transaction. In addition, the transaction management device 20 updates the cart information as the transaction progresses (each time a product is registered) (a product may be considered to have been registered when the product is stored in the cart information). The cart information shown in Figure 5 (C) includes cart identification information, transaction start date and time, transaction end date and time, customer identification information, registered product information, pending product information, cancellation information, etc. The cart identification information is identification information that uniquely identifies the cart information. For example, the cart identification information includes store identification information, date, and serial number (e.g., a serial number for each store and date). The transaction start date and time is the start date and time of the transaction.

The transaction start date and time may be, for example, the date and time when the cart information is generated. The transaction start date and time may be the date and time when the first item of product is registered (the date and time when the registered product information (registered product 1) in FIG. 5(C) is stored). The date and time when the cart information is generated and the date and time when the first item of product is registered may both be stored separately. The transaction end date and time is the date and time when the transaction ends. For example, the transaction start date and time may be the settlement date and time. The customer identification information is customer identification information that identifies the customer of the transaction. When the cart information is generated, the cart identification information, the transaction start date and time, and the customer identification information are generated, but since this is before the start of the actual transaction (product registration), other information (such as the transaction end date and time) is not generated. The settlement date and time may be the settlement start date and time or the settlement end date and time. The settlement start date and time and the settlement end date and time may both be stored separately as the transaction end date and time.

Registered product information (total) is information that is updated each time a product is registered. Registered product information (total) includes the number of products (number of products), estimated subtotal amount (e.g., subtotal amount before discounts, etc. are reflected), subtotal amount, etc. Registered product information (registered product 1) is the registration information for one product item. Registered product information (registered product 2) is the registration information for two products. In the example shown in Figure 5 (C), registered product information (registered product 3) to registered product information (registered product 5) are omitted from the illustration. Registered product information (N; N is an integer) includes the product code, product name (product name), price, etc.

The registered product information (N) may include the registration date and time of the Nth item of product. In other words, the transaction management device 20 may store the registration date and time of the registered product as the registered product information. The registration date and time of each product may also be used as a basis for determining whether or not to apply a service such as a time service and the effect of applying the service.

Pending product information (total) is information that is updated each time a pending product (described below) is registered. Pending product information (total) includes the number of pending products (number of products), the number of pending products that are NON-FILE, the number of pending products that could not be read, etc.

A NON-FILE is an item where the barcode or product code was successfully scanned at the store (the product code was read) but the product code is not stored in the product information, or the product code is not stored in the product information (a product with no registered product information).

A "read NG" refers to a case where the product code could not be scanned at the store (the product code could not be read), or a product where the product code could not be scanned at the store. In other words, a product that cannot be read is also considered a product that requires confirmation due to the risk of tampering (a product that requires confirmation of tampering).

Pending product information (pending product 1) is information on pending product 1. Pending product information (pending product 2) is information on pending product 2. Pending product information (pending product 3) is information on pending product 3.

The reserved product information (reserved product N; N is an integer) includes the reserved product type. For example, if the Nth item is a reserved product due to NON-FILE, the reserved product information (reserved product N) includes the reserved product type "1 (NON-FILE)" and the product code. Also, if the Nth item is a reserved product due to reading NG, the reserved product information (reserved product N) includes the reserved product type "2 (reading NG)" and image data (image captured by the mobile terminal 60). Note that the reserved product information for a NON-FILE reserved product may include image data in addition to the reserved product type "1 (NON-FILE)" and the product code.

Note that the information shown in FIG. 5 is an example of information stored by the transaction management device 20, and the transaction management device 20 may store other information (e.g., product files).

Figure 6 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the processing of the mobile terminal 60, settlement device 40, and transaction management device 20. Specifically, Figure 6 shows an example of the processing flow of each of the mobile terminal 60, settlement device 40, and transaction management device 20 from when a customer comes to a store, registers an item using the mobile terminal 60, until settlement for the registered item is completed. The left side of Figure 6 shows the processing of the mobile terminal 60, the center shows the processing of the settlement device 40, and the right side shows the processing of the transaction management device 20.

In the explanation of the sequence diagram in Figure 6, it is assumed that a two-dimensional code (a two-dimensional code that encodes store-specific information, etc.) is displayed near the entrance of the store to identify the store.

Step S1: The mobile terminal 60 acquires store-specific information. Specifically, a customer who visits a store scans a two-dimensional code displayed near the store entrance with the mobile terminal 60, and the mobile terminal 60 acquires the store-specific information.

Step S2: The mobile terminal 60 that has acquired the store identification information transmits the store identification information together with the customer identification information (user ID) to the transaction management device 20.

The address (destination information) of the transaction management device 20 is stored in the mobile terminal 60. For example, the mobile terminal 60 may store the address of the transaction management device 20 when registering a customer (for example, when installing a shopping application on the mobile terminal 60).

The customer identification information is also stored in the mobile terminal 60. For example, the mobile terminal 60 may store the customer identification information when registering a customer. In customer registration, information entered into a registration form using the mobile terminal 60 is stored as customer information in the transaction management device 20. In the case of an aspect in which customer identification information is entered into a registration form (an aspect in which the customer specifies customer identification information), the customer identification information entered into the registration form is stored in the memory of the mobile terminal 60 and is also transmitted to the transaction management device 20 and stored as customer information in the transaction management device 20. On the other hand, in the case of an aspect in which customer identification information is not entered into a registration form (an aspect in which the transaction management device 20 generates customer identification information), the customer identification information generated by the transaction management device 20 is stored as customer information in the transaction management device 20 and is also transmitted to the mobile terminal 60 and stored in the memory of the mobile terminal 60.

Step S3: The transaction management device 20 receives the customer identification information and store identification information sent by the mobile terminal 60 and generates cart information for the transaction. Note that when the cart information is generated, the cart identification information, transaction start date and time, and customer identification information are generated, but since this is before the start of the actual transaction (product registration), no other information is generated.

Step S4: The transaction management device 20, which has generated the cart information for the transaction, generates screen information (screen information for the start screen, screen information for the initial registration screen) and transmits the generated screen information to the mobile terminal 60 together with the cart identification information.

Step S5: The mobile terminal 60 receives the cart identification information and screen information sent by the transaction management device 20, stores the cart identification information, and displays the start screen (see FIG. 7(A)) on the display unit.

Step S6: The mobile terminal 60 accepts a shopping start instruction as an operation by the customer. Specifically, the mobile terminal 60 accepts the operation of the shopping start button 600 (see FIG. 7(A)).

Step S7: Having received the instruction to start shopping, the mobile terminal 60 displays a registration screen (initial registration screen; see FIG. 7(B)) on the display unit.

In the sequence diagram of FIG. 6, the screen information of the initial registration screen is transmitted and received together with the screen information of the start screen, but the screen information of the initial registration screen may be transmitted and received after the screen information of the start screen is transmitted and received. That is, the above step S6 may operate, for example, as in the following (1) to (3). (1) The mobile terminal 60 transmits information indicating that a shopping start instruction has been issued to the transaction management device 20 together with customer identification information. (2) The transaction management device 20, which has received the information indicating that a shopping start instruction has been issued and the customer identification information transmitted by the mobile terminal 60, generates screen information (screen information of the initial registration screen) and transmits the generated screen information to the mobile terminal 60. (3) The mobile terminal 60, which has received the screen information transmitted by the transaction management device 20, displays the initial registration screen on the display unit.

Step S8: In response to the customer's reading operation, the mobile terminal 60 scans the barcode attached to the product and reads the product code (see Figure 7 (C)).

Step S9: The mobile terminal 60 transmits the read product code together with the cart identification information to the transaction management device 20.

Step S10: The transaction management device 20 receives the cart identification information and product code sent by the mobile terminal 60 and identifies the cart information of the transaction from the cart identification information.

Step S11: The transaction management device 20 updates the identified cart information (adds product data). For example, when the transaction management device 20 receives a product code as the Nth item, it stores the product code as the product code of the registered product information (registered product N) in the identified cart information, obtains the product name and price corresponding to the product code from the product information, and stores them as the product and price of the registered product information (registered product N). The transaction management device 20 also updates the registered product information (total) in the identified cart information.

Step S12: After updating the cart information, the transaction management device 20 generates screen information after product registration (screen information of the registration screen corresponding to the updated cart information) and transmits the generated screen information to the mobile terminal 60 together with the cart identification information.

Step S13: The mobile terminal 60 receives the cart identification information and screen information sent by the transaction management device 20, and after confirming whether the cart identification information matches the cart identification information stored therein, displays a registration screen based on the screen information on the display unit. In other words, the product is added to the registration screen of the mobile terminal 60 (see FIG. 7(D)).

Note that while FIG. 6 has simplified the process for ease of explanation, steps S8 to S13 are repeated each time a product code is read in step S8 until a checkout instruction is received in step S14 below. In other words, after step S13, there are cases where a checkout instruction is received (proceeding to step S14 below) and cases where a product code is read again (returning to step S8 above).

Step S14: The mobile terminal 60 accepts payment instructions as an operation by the customer. Specifically, the mobile terminal 60 accepts operation of the Proceed to Payment button 604 (see FIG. 7(D)).

Step S15: The mobile terminal 60 that has received the accounting instruction generates a two-dimensional code for settlement (two-dimensional code for settlement; two-dimensional code for settlement 605 in FIG. 8(A)) by converting information required to execute the settlement process for the items purchased by the mobile terminal 60 (e.g., cart identification information) into a two-dimensional code. The mobile terminal 60 that has generated the two-dimensional code displays the generated two-dimensional code on the display unit (see FIG. 8(A)).

Step S16: In response to the customer's reading operation, the settlement device 40 scans the two-dimensional code displayed on the display unit of the mobile terminal 60 and reads the two-dimensional code (see Figure 8 (B)).

Step S17: The settlement device 40, which has read the two-dimensional code, requests the transaction management device 20 to calculate the subtotal amount. For example, the settlement device 40 sends a calculation request (subtotal calculation request information) requesting calculation of the subtotal amount, together with the cart identification information obtained from the two-dimensional code, to the transaction management device 20 via the management device 10.

Step S18: The transaction management device 20 receives the cart identification information and the sub-calculation request information sent by the settlement device 40 and identifies the cart information of the transaction from the cart identification information.

Step S19: After identifying the cart information, the transaction management device 20 calculates the subtotal amount for the identified cart information.

Step S20: After calculating the subtotal, the transaction management device 20 updates the cart information (stores the subtotal (calculated subtotal)) and transmits the subtotal information indicating the calculated subtotal together with the cart identification information to the settlement device 40 via the management device 10.

Step S21: The settlement device 40 receives the cart identification information and subtotal information sent by the transaction management device 20 and displays the subtotal amount on the display unit 405. Specifically, the settlement device 40 displays the subtotal amount on the settlement screen (product list screen (see FIG. 10)).

Step S22: The settlement device 40, which has displayed the subtotal amount on the display unit 405, executes the payment (settlement). Specifically, the settlement device 40 accepts the selection of the payment type on the settlement screen (payment type selection screen (Figure 11)). In the case of cash, it accepts the deposit, calculates the change amount, and, if there is change, dispenses the change and issues a receipt. In addition, when the settlement is completed, the settlement device 40 sends settlement completion information together with the cart information via the management device 10 to the transaction management device 20, and the transaction management device 20 stores the transaction end date and time (settlement date and time) of the cart information.

Figures 7 and 8 are examples of displays on the display unit of the mobile terminal 60. Figure 7 (A) is an example of a start screen. When the mobile terminal 60 acquires store-specific information, it displays a start screen as shown in Figure 7 (A). On the start screen, various buttons are arranged as shown in Figure 7 (A). For example, on the start screen, a start shopping button 600 that accepts an instruction to start shopping is arranged. When a customer starts shopping, he or she operates the start shopping button 600. When the start shopping button 600 is operated, the mobile terminal 60 displays the registration screen shown in Figure 7 (B) and subsequent figures instead of the start screen.

Figure 7 (B) is a display in a scene following Figure 7 (A). Specifically, Figure 7 (B) is a registration screen (initial registration screen) that is displayed after the start shopping button 600 is operated on the start screen of Figure 7 (A). The upper side of the registration screen is a captured image display area 601 that mainly displays captured images. The lower side of the registration screen is a registration information display area 602 that mainly displays product registration information.

Figure 7 (C) is a display following the scene in Figure 7 (B). Specifically, Figure 7 (C) is a registration screen when capturing an image of the barcode attached to "XX bread" as the first item of product on the registration screen (initial registration screen) in Figure 7 (B). In other words, when a customer registers a desired product (a product to be purchased), he or she captures an image of the barcode attached to the product, as shown in Figure 7 (C).

Figure 7 (D) is a display in a scene following Figure 3 (C). Specifically, Figure 7 (D) is a display in a scene where registration of the first item of product (XX bread) has been completed. Note that Figure 7 (D) is an example of a display immediately after the product has been identified (i.e., while the barcode is still being captured). Therefore, in the display example of Figure 7 (D), the barcode of the product is displayed in the captured image display area 601.

The mobile terminal 60 displays the registration information of the product identified by imaging the barcode in the registration information display area 602. For example, as shown in FIG. 7(D), the mobile terminal 60 displays the registration information (product name, quantity, price) of the product identified by imaging the barcode (XX bread) (symbol a). The mobile terminal 60 displays part of the registration information (quantity) as a quantity button 603. The quantity button 603 is a button for changing the quantity. The mobile terminal 60 also displays total information (total points, total price) (symbol b). The mobile terminal 60 also displays a Proceed to Checkout button 604 that accepts accounting instructions. When the customer wishes to proceed to payment (checkout) (when completing product registration), the customer operates the Proceed to Checkout button 604.

Figure 8 (A) is a display in a scene following Figure 7 (D). Specifically, Figure 8 (A) is a two-dimensional code display screen that is displayed after the Proceed to Checkout button 604 is operated on the registration screen of Figure 7 (D). The two-dimensional code display screen displays a two-dimensional code 605 for checkout. The two-dimensional code 605 for checkout is a two-dimensional code of information required to execute the checkout process. For example, the two-dimensional code 605 for checkout may be a two-dimensional code of information (cart information) that identifies the cart information of a particular customer (transaction information registered by the customer using the mobile terminal 60) from among multiple pieces of cart information (respective transaction information registered by each customer using their respective mobile terminals 60) stored in the transaction management device 20.

The two-dimensional code display screen also has an estimated total display field 606 and a back button 607. The back button 607 is a button for returning to shopping (restarting shopping). When the back button 607 is operated, the mobile terminal 60 displays a registration screen (the registration screen shown immediately before the Proceed to Checkout button 604 is operated) instead of the two-dimensional code display screen. Figure 8 (B) shows how the settlement two-dimensional code 605 is read by the settlement device 40.

Figures 9 to 11 are examples of displays on the display unit 405 of the settlement device 40. Figure 9 is the settlement screen (initial settlement screen). As shown in Figure 9, the settlement screen (initial settlement screen) displays a message instructing the user to read the two-dimensional settlement code 605 (in the figure, a QR code (registered trademark)) displayed on the mobile terminal 60. When the two-dimensional settlement code 605 displayed on the mobile terminal 60 is read on the settlement screen (initial settlement screen), a list of products registered by the mobile terminal 60 is displayed.

Figure 10 shows the checkout screen (product list screen) that is displayed when the two-dimensional checkout code 605 displayed on the customer's mobile terminal 60 is read on the checkout screen (initial checkout screen) of Figure 9. In other words, the customer's cart information is identified based on the two-dimensional checkout code 605 displayed on the customer's mobile terminal 60, and each product stored in the cart information (each product registered by the customer's mobile terminal 60) is displayed on the checkout screen (product list screen) as shown in Figure 10.

The checkout screen (product list screen) in FIG. 10 also includes a display field 1400 for the estimated total, a display field 1401 for the number of products by price range (over 1,000 yen, between 500 yen and 1,000 yen, between 300 yen and 500 yen, and under 300 yen), a display field 1403 for the captured image, and a checkout button 1404.

In the display area 1403 for the captured image, a captured image of the periphery of the change machine 409 of the settlement device 40 is displayed. For example, the settlement device 40 may have a camera at a position where it can capture an image of the periphery of the change machine 409, and may display an image captured by the camera (i.e., an image captured by the settlement device 40 itself) in the display area 1403. The settlement device 40 may also display an image captured by a camera installed at a position where it can capture an image of the periphery of the change machine 409 (i.e., an image acquired from outside) in the display area 1403. The captured image may be an image obtained from the camera that is output in real time (live view/through image), or may be an image obtained from the camera that is temporarily stored and then played back. The captured image may be a video or a still image (e.g., still images displayed continuously).

Note that, although the checkout screen (product list screen) shown in FIG. 10 displays products in price order, it is not necessary to display the products in price order. For example, the products may be displayed in the order in which they were registered. Also, although the checkout screen (product list screen) shown in FIG. 10 displays products in different background colors according to price range, it is not necessary to display products in different background colors according to price range. For example, the background colors may be different alternately (every other line).

Figure 11 shows a display following the scene in Figure 10. Specifically, Figure 11 shows a checkout screen (payment type selection screen) that is displayed after the checkout button 1404 is operated on the checkout screen (product list screen) in Figure 10. The checkout screen (payment type selection screen) in Figure 11 has various buttons arranged according to the payment method.

The back button 1607 on the checkout screen (payment type selection screen) is a button for returning to the previous display. In other words, operating the back button 1607 switches the display to the checkout screen (product list screen) of FIG. 10.

(Full self-service operation using the registration terminal 62 and settlement device 40)
Next, of the above-mentioned groups A to F, group B, that is, full self-service operation using registration terminal 62 and settlement device 40 (a mode in which products are registered at each display position), will be described.

The configuration of Group B (registered terminals 62 and settlement devices 40) differs from the configuration of Group A (mobile terminals 60 and settlement devices 40) described above in the following ways, but is basically the same. The difference between the two is that the mobile terminals 60 in Group A are owned by the customer and set in the shopping cart 70, whereas the registered terminals 62 in Group B are attached to the shopping cart 72 and are the property of the store. In other words, the mobile terminals 60 in Group A are dedicated terminals for each customer, whereas the registered terminals 62 in Group B are shared terminals that are lent to any customer who visits the store.

In other words, near the entrance of the store, there are prepared a rental shopping cart 72 (a cart in which the registration terminal 62 is set from the beginning), a rental shopping basket 80, and a shopping bag 90 for sale (the shopping bag 90 is not necessary if, for example, the customer brings their own bag). When a customer arrives at the store, they place the shopping basket 80 in the shopping cart 72, place the shopping bag 90 in the shopping basket 80, and proceed inside the store.

In addition, a shopping application is installed on the registration terminal 62, just like the mobile terminal 60.

(Store identification)
The registration terminal 62 is attached to a shopping cart 72 prepared for each store. In other words, the mobile terminals 60 in group A are used in a plurality of stores, whereas the registration terminals 62 in group B are used in a single store. Therefore, in the case of group B, it is not necessary to identify the store (obtain store identification information).

In Group A, the mobile terminal 60 communicates with the transaction management device 20 (sending store-specific information, etc.), the transaction management device 20 generates cart information, and the mobile terminal 60 displays the start screen (steps S2 to S5 in FIG. 6), but in Group B, the registration terminal 62 may simply display the start screen without communicating with the transaction management device 20, and after reading the product code of the first item, the registration terminal 62 may communicate with the transaction management device 20 (sending the product code of the first item, etc.), the transaction management device 20 generates cart information, and the registration terminal 62 may add the item to the registration screen.

(Customer Identification)
As described above, the registration terminal 62 is a shared terminal. Therefore, when a customer simply uses the loaned registration terminal 62, the store (the registration terminal 62, the transaction management device 20, etc.) cannot recognize who the customer is, that is, which customer is registered. For this reason, the customer may be identified, for example, as follows.

The start screen of the registration terminal 62 may be provided with input fields for a customer number and a password, and a customer using the registration terminal 62 may be required to input a customer ID (information determined when registering the customer) and a password. This allows the registration terminal 62 and the transaction management device 20 communicating with the registration terminal 62 to recognize who the customer is.

Facial recognition or the like may be performed using the imaging function of the registration terminal 62, so that it is possible to recognize who the customer is. Also, a card recognition device (capable of communicating with the registration terminal 62) may be installed in the shopping cart 72, and the card recognition unit may recognize a membership card (a card distributed to a registered customer), so that it is possible to recognize who the customer is.

(Linkage with payment device)
The mobile terminals 60 in group A can be removed from the shopping cart 70 (holder 71), whereas the registered terminals 62 in group B cannot be removed from the shopping cart 72. This makes the link between the registered terminals 62 and the settlement device 40 an issue. Specifically, even if the registered terminals 62 in group B display a two-dimensional settlement code 605, the displayed two-dimensional settlement code 605 cannot be read by the settlement device 40, as shown in Fig. 8 (B). For this reason, the registered terminals 62 and the settlement device 40 may be linked, for example, as follows.

The registration terminal 62 may be attached with a lead (string, chain) so that the registration terminal 62 can be moved away from the shopping cart 72 within a predetermined distance (e.g., 1 meter). This allows the settlement device 40 to read the two-dimensional settlement code 605 displayed by the registration terminal 62, as shown in FIG. 8 (B).

In addition, a send button may be provided on the registration terminal 62 (if there are multiple settlement devices 40, a send button corresponding to each of them) so that, by operating this button, information similar to the information obtained when the two-dimensional settlement code 605 is read is sent from the registration terminal 62 to the settlement device 40. In addition, a printing device (capable of communicating with the registration terminal 62) may be provided on the shopping cart 72, and a medium on which the two-dimensional settlement code 605 is printed may be issued by this printing device, and the settlement device 40 may read the two-dimensional settlement code 605 printed on this medium.

(Non-self-service operation by registered settlement device 30)
Next, of the above groups A to F, group C, that is, non-self-service operation by the registered settlement device 30, will be described.

Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the registration settlement device 30. Figure 12 (A) is a diagram showing the registration settlement device 30 as viewed from the front. Figure 12 (B) is a diagram showing the registration settlement device 30 as viewed from the side. Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the registration settlement device 30. In Figures 12 and 13, the same parts are given the same symbols.

Below, an example of the configuration of the registration and settlement device 30 shown in FIG. 13 will be described with reference to FIG. 12. The registration and settlement device 30 comprises a CPU 301, a ROM 302, a RAM 303, a hard disk 304, a customer display unit 305, a scanner unit 306, a card payment unit 308, a change machine 309, a store clerk display unit 310, a key operation unit 311, a printing unit 313, an audio output unit 314, and a communication unit 315. These can communicate with each other via a bus. The registration and settlement device 30 may further include an imaging unit (camera).

Registered settlement device 30 has a CPU 301, ROM 302, RAM 303, hard disk 304, card settlement unit 308, change machine 309, printing unit 313, audio output unit 314, and communication unit 315, which are similar to the CPU 401, ROM 402, RAM 403, hard disk 404, card settlement unit 408, change machine 409, printing unit 413, audio output unit 414, and communication unit 415 of settlement device 40, and therefore their descriptions will be omitted in part or in whole.

The customer-side display unit 305 is a touch display that displays various information to the customer and accepts various inputs from the customer. Note that the appearance of the customer-side display unit 305 shown in FIG. 12 is an example (it may have a larger display area).

The scanner unit 306 optically reads various information. For example, the scanner unit 306 scans a code attached to a product and reads the product code. The scanner unit 306 may also scan a code attached to a store clerk's name tag and read the store clerk code. The scanner unit 306 may also scan codes attached to gift certificates (gift certificates, coupons, complimentary coupons) and various cards (e.g., membership cards, point cards, etc.) and read the respective information.

The store clerk display unit 310 is a touch display that displays various information to the store clerk and accepts various inputs from the store clerk. Note that the appearance of the store clerk display unit 310 shown in FIG. 12 is one example (it may have a larger display area).

The key operation unit 311 has various buttons operated by the store clerk (numeric buttons for inputting figures such as the amount, buttons corresponding to products, a subtotal button, a billing button, etc.).

The change dispenser 309 includes a bill insertion port (not shown) for inserting currency (banknotes), a coin insertion port (reference symbol 309b in FIG. 12) for inserting currency (coins), a bill ejection port (not shown) for ejecting currency (banknotes), a coin ejection port (reference symbol 309a in FIG. 2) for ejecting currency (coins), a counting unit (not shown) for counting the inserted or ejected currency, and a currency transport mechanism (not shown) between the insertion port or ejection port and the storage unit 300. The bill insertion port and the coin insertion port are also referred to as deposit insertion ports. The bill ejection port and the coin ejection port are also referred to as change ejection ports. The bill insertion port and the bill ejection port may be common, and the coin insertion port and the coin ejection port may be common.

Figure 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the registration settlement device 30. Specifically, Figure 14 shows an example of the flow of operation of the registration settlement device 30 from registering a product to completing settlement. Note that at the start of the processing in Figure 14, the registration settlement device 30 has not registered a single product.

Step S31: The registered settlement device 30 determines whether or not the barcode attached to the product has been scanned. If the barcode has been scanned (step S31 (YES)), proceed to step S32. If the barcode has not been scanned (step S31 (NO)), return to step S31. In other words, the registered settlement device 30 repeats the process of step S31 until the barcode attached to the product is scanned as one item. Note that instead of or in addition to scanning the barcode, it may also determine whether or not a button corresponding to the product (e.g., fruits and vegetables) has been operated. The same applies to step S34.

Step S32: The registration settlement device 30 registers the product. Then, proceed to step S33.

Step S33: As in step S31, the registered settlement device 30 determines whether the barcode attached to the product has been scanned. If the barcode has been scanned (step S33 (YES)), the process returns to step S32. If the barcode has not been scanned (step S33 (NO)), the process proceeds to step S34.

Step S34: The registration and settlement device 30 determines whether the subtotal button (a button that completes the registration of the product) has been operated. If the subtotal button has been operated (step S34 (YES)), the process proceeds to step S35. If the subtotal button has not been operated (step S34 (NO)), the process returns to step S33.

Step S35: The registered settlement device 30 accepts the insertion of coins. In other words, the clerk inserts the coins (the amount of the deposit) received from the customer into the registered settlement device 30 (change machine 309), so the registered settlement device 30 accepts the insertion of coins (the amount of the deposit) by the clerk. Note that if the customer has not inserted coins (e.g., if the amount inserted is equal to or greater than the total amount and no additional coins are being inserted and the cashier button is simply being pressed), this process is omitted. Next, proceed to step S36.

Step S36: The registered settlement device 30 determines whether the deposited amount is equal to or greater than the total amount (total amount of registered products). If the deposited amount is equal to or greater than the total amount (step S36 (YES)), proceed to step S37. If the deposited amount is not equal to or greater than the total amount (step S36 (NO)), return to step S35.

Step S37: The registered settlement device 30 determines whether the accounting button (a button that confirms the deposit and advances the process) has been operated. If the accounting button has been operated (step S37 (YES)), proceed to step S38. If the accounting button has not been operated (step S37 (NO)), return to step S35.

Step S38: The registered settlement device 30 prints and issues a receipt. If there is any change, the registered settlement device 30 dispenses it. Then, this flowchart ends.

(Full self-service operation using the registered settlement device 31)
Next, of the above-mentioned groups A to F, group D, that is, full self-service operation using the registration and settlement device 31 (a mode in which products are registered all at once in the checkout area), will be described.

The appearance and configuration of the registered settlement device 31 may be the same as, for example, the settlement device 40 shown in FIG. 4. However, the difference is that the settlement device 40 does not basically register products in the settlement device 40, but settles for products registered in other devices (mobile terminal 60, registration terminal 62), whereas the registered settlement device 31 registers products in the device and settles for them.

In other words, the scanner unit 406 of the settlement device 40 basically scans the two-dimensional settlement code displayed on the display unit of the mobile terminal 60 (or the registration terminal 62) and reads the information necessary for the settlement process, while the scanner unit of the registration settlement device 31 scans the code attached to the product and reads the product code.

As mentioned above, the scanner unit 406 of the settlement device 40 may scan things other than two-dimensional settlement codes (codes printed on bills, codes attached to products, codes attached to store clerk nametags), and the scanner unit of the registered settlement device 31 may also scan things other than codes attached to products.

The operation of the registration and settlement device 31 may be the same as that of the registration and settlement device 30 shown in FIG. 14, for example. However, the difference is that the registration and settlement device 30 is operated by a store clerk (operations related to registration and settlement), whereas the registration and settlement device 31 is operated by a customer (operations related to registration and settlement).

(Semi-self-service operation using the registration device 32 and the settlement device 33)
Next, of the above groups A to F, group E, that is, semi-self-service operation using the registration device 32 and the settlement device 33, will be described.

Figure 15 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the registration device 32 and the settlement device 33. Figure 16 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the registration device 32. Figure 17 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the settlement device 33.

Below, an example of the configuration of the registration device 32 shown in FIG. 16 will be described with reference to FIG. 15. In FIG. 15 and FIG. 16, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals.

As shown in FIG. 16, the registration device 32 includes a CPU 101, a ROM 102, a RAM 103, a scanner unit 104, a clerk display unit 105, a customer display unit 106, a hard disk 107, a key operation unit 108, a communication unit 109, an audio output unit 110, a printing unit 111, and a bus 115. These are connected to each other via the bus 115.

ROM 102 stores various information. For example, ROM 102 stores a product registration program for causing CPU 101 to execute a registration process. RAM 103 temporarily stores various information. For example, RAM 103 temporarily stores information read from ROM 102 or hard disk 107, and information generated by executing the product registration program.

The scanner unit 104 is a scanner that optically reads barcodes. The scanner unit 104 optically reads the barcode attached to the product, acquires a product code from the read barcode, and stores the acquired product code in the RAM 103.

The CPU 101 controls the entire registration device 32. For example, the CPU 101 controls the execution of the registration process by executing a product registration program. As an example, the CPU 101 displays the product name and price of the purchased product on the display unit (clerk display unit 105, customer display unit 106) based on the product code read by the scanner unit 104 and the product file stored in the hard disk 107. The CPU 101 also generates registration data including the product codes of all registered products. The CPU 101 controls the communication unit 109 to transmit the generated registration data to the settlement device 33. In addition to transmitting the generated registration data to the settlement device 33, the CPU 101 may store it in the RAM 103 or the hard disk 107.

The clerk display unit 105 is, for example, an LCD touch display device. The clerk display unit 105 displays various information (such as a registration screen) to the clerk. The clerk display unit 105 also displays various buttons (various keys) that the clerk operates. For example, the clerk display unit 105 displays a subtotal button for instructing the clerk to end product registration, a settlement device designation button for designating (selecting) the destination to which registered data is to be sent, etc.

The customer display unit 106 is, for example, an LCD touch display device. The customer display unit 106 displays various information to the customer (such as the price of each product). The customer display unit 106 also displays various buttons that the customer can operate. For example, the customer display unit 106 can display an OK button for age verification.

The hard disk 107 stores various information. For example, the hard disk 107 stores information acquired from the outside (e.g., product files, etc.) and information generated by the product registration program.

The key operation unit 108 has various buttons (such as numeric buttons for inputting figures such as the amount) that the store clerk operates. Note that instead of or in addition to displaying on the store clerk display unit 105, the various buttons described as being displayed on the store clerk display unit 105 (such as the subtotal button described above) may be arranged on the key operation unit 108.

The communication unit 109 is a communication interface for communicating with external devices (other registration devices 32, settlement devices 33, management devices 10, monitoring devices 50) via the LAN 11. The audio output unit 110 outputs confirmation sounds, warning sounds, audio guidance, etc. The printing unit 111 prints and issues various media.

The registration device 32 may further include a card payment unit (card reading unit), an imaging unit (camera), a timing unit (clock), etc.

Next, an example of the configuration of the settlement device 33 shown in FIG. 17 will be described with reference to FIG. 15. In FIG. 15 and FIG. 17, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals.

As shown in FIG. 4, the settlement device 33 includes a CPU 201, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, a scanner unit 204, a display unit 206, a hard disk 207, a communication unit 209, an audio output unit 210, a printing unit 211, a change machine (automatic change machine) 212, a sign pole 213, and a bus 215. These are connected to each other via the bus 215.

The ROM 202 stores various information. For example, the ROM 202 stores an accounting program for causing the CPU 201 to execute a settlement process. The RAM 203 temporarily stores various information. For example, the RAM 203 temporarily stores information read from the ROM 202 or the hard disk 207, and information generated by executing the accounting program. The scanner unit 204 is a scanner that optically reads barcodes, etc.

The CPU 201 controls the entire settlement device 33. For example, the CPU 201 controls the execution of the settlement process by executing an accounting program. As an example, the CPU 201 displays the total amount on the display unit 206 based on the registration data transmitted from the registration device 32. The CPU 201 also obtains information on the amount of money inserted into the change machine 212 from the change machine 212 and displays it on the display unit 206 as the deposit amount (deposit amount). The CPU 201 also calculates the change amount based on the total amount and the deposit amount and displays it on the display unit 206. When the settlement process is completed, the CPU 201 also issues a receipt from the printing unit 211 and ejects money from the change machine 212 in an amount equal to the change amount. When the settlement process is completed, the CPU 201 also generates settlement data (settlement information) including the total amount, etc., and controls the communication unit 209 to transmit the data to an external device (e.g., the management device 10). In addition to transmitting the generated settlement data to an external device, the CPU 201 may also store the data in the RAM 203 or the hard disk 207.

The display unit 206 is, for example, a liquid crystal touch display device. The display unit 206 displays various information to the customer (operation information, total amount, deposit amount, change amount, etc.). The display unit 206 also accepts various operations from the customer (operation to select a payment method, operation to confirm the deposit amount and execute the settlement, etc.).

The hard disk 207 stores various information. For example, the hard disk 207 stores information acquired from the outside (e.g., registration data, etc.) and information generated by the accounting program.

The communication unit 209 is a communication interface for communicating with external devices (the registration device 32, other settlement devices 33, the management device 10, the monitoring device 50) via the LAN 11. The audio output unit 210 outputs confirmation sounds, warning sounds, audio guidance, etc. The printing unit 211 prints and issues various media.

The change machine 212 is an automatic change machine (cash settlement unit) that controls the deposit and withdrawal of coins (money) into a storage unit (not shown) in which coins (money) are stored. In the examples shown in Figures 15 and 17, the change machine 212 is built into the settlement device 33, but the change machine 212 may be connected to the settlement device 33.

The sign pole 213 has indicator lights of multiple colors, and each display mode (off, on, flashing, etc.) notifies the store clerk and customers of the state of the self-adjustment device 33 (a store clerk is being called, change is near end, etc.) and whether the self-adjustment device 33 is a specific adjustment device 33 (for example, a adjustment device 33 designated by a store clerk).

The settlement device 33 may further include a card payment unit (card reading unit), an imaging unit (camera), a timing unit (clock), etc.

Figure 18 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the registration device 32 and the settlement device 33. Specifically, Figure 18 (A) shows an example of the flow of operation of the registration device 32. Note that at the start of the processing in Figure 18 (A), the registration device 32 has not registered any products.

Step S41: The registration device 32 determines whether or not the barcode attached to the product has been scanned. If the barcode has been scanned (step S41 (YES)), the process proceeds to step S42. If the barcode has not been scanned (step S41 (NO)), the process returns to step S41. Note that instead of or in addition to scanning the barcode, it may be determined whether or not a button corresponding to the product (e.g., fruits and vegetables) has been operated. The same applies to step S44.

Step S42: The registration device 32 registers the product. Then, proceed to step S44.

Step S43: As in step S41, the registration device 32 determines whether the barcode attached to the product has been scanned. If the barcode has been scanned (step S43 (YES)), the process returns to step S42. If the barcode has not been scanned (step S43 (NO)), the process proceeds to step S44.

Step S44: The registration device 32 determines whether the subtotal button has been operated. If the subtotal button has been operated (step S44 (YES)), the process proceeds to step S45. If the subtotal button has not been operated (step S44 (NO)), the process returns to step S43.

Step S45: The registration device 32 determines whether the settlement device designation button (a button for designating the settlement device 33 that will execute the settlement process) has been operated. If the settlement device designation button has been operated (step S45 (YES)), the process proceeds to step S46. If the settlement device designation button has not been operated (step S45 (NO)), the process returns to step S45. In other words, the registration device 32 repeats the process of step S45 until the settlement device designation button is operated.

Step S45: The registration device 32 transmits the registration data to the settlement device 33 corresponding to the settlement device designation button operated in step S45 (either indirectly via another device such as the management device 10, or directly). Then, this flowchart ends.

Figure 18 (B) shows an example of the flow of operations of the settlement device 33. Note that at the start of the processing in Figure 18 (B), the settlement device 33 has not received any registration data.

Step S51: The settlement device 33 determines whether or not registration data has been received. If registration data has been received (step S51 (YES)), the process proceeds to step S52. If registration data has not been received (step S51 (NO)), the process returns to step S51. In other words, the settlement device 33 repeats the process of step S51 until registration data is received.

Step S52: The settlement device 33 accepts the insertion of coins. That is, the customer inserts coins (coins equivalent to the deposited amount) into the settlement device 33 (change machine 212), so the settlement device 33 accepts the insertion of coins (coins equivalent to the deposited amount) by the customer. Note that if the customer has not inserted coins (e.g., if the amount inserted is equal to or greater than the total amount and no additional coins are being inserted and the device is simply waiting for the cashier button to be pressed), this process is omitted. Next, proceed to step S53.

Step S53: The settlement device 33 determines whether the deposited amount is equal to or greater than the total amount (total amount of registered products). If the deposited amount is equal to or greater than the total amount (step S53 (YES)), the process proceeds to step S54. If the deposited amount is not equal to or greater than the total amount (step S53 (NO)), the process returns to step S52.

Step S54: The settlement device 33 determines whether the billing button has been operated. If the billing button has been operated (step S54 (YES)), the process proceeds to step S55. If the billing button has not been operated (step S54 (NO)), the process returns to step S52.

Step S55: The settlement device 33 prints and issues a receipt. If there is any change, the settlement device 33 dispenses it. Then, this flowchart ends.

In FIG. 18(A), the registration device 32 accepts operation of the settlement device designation button after accepting operation of the subtotal button, but it may also accept operation of the settlement device designation button without accepting operation of the subtotal button. For example, by displaying both the subtotal button and the settlement device designation button as operable, it may be possible to accept operation of the settlement device designation button before operation of the subtotal button, or it may be possible not to display (position) the subtotal button in the first place.

In addition, in Fig. 18 (A) and (B), registration data is transmitted and received between the registration device 32 and the settlement device 33, but instead of transmitting and receiving the registration data, a bill may be used. In other words, the registration device 32 may issue a bill on which a code (barcode, two-dimensional code, etc.) capable of obtaining the registration data is printed, and the settlement device 33 may obtain the registration data by reading the bill.

(Semi-self-service operation/full-self-service operation by the registration settlement device 34)
Next, of the above groups A to F, group F, that is, semi-self-service operation/full-self-service operation by the registered settlement device 34, will be described.

Figure 19 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the registration and settlement device 34. Figure 19 (A) is a diagram showing the registration and settlement device 34 as seen from the customer's side. Figure 19 (B) is a diagram showing the registration and settlement device 34 as seen from the store clerk's side. Figure 20 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the registration and settlement device 34. In Figures 19 and 20, the same parts are given the same symbols.

Below, an example of the configuration of the registration and settlement device 34 shown in FIG. 20 will be described with reference to FIG. 19. The registration and settlement device 34 comprises a CPU 501, a ROM 502, a RAM 503, a hard disk 504, a customer display unit 505, a customer scanner unit 506, a card payment unit 508, a change machine 509, a store clerk display unit 510, a key operation unit 511, a store clerk scanner unit 512, a printing unit 513, an audio output unit 514, and a communication unit 515. These can communicate with each other via a bus.

The CPU 501, ROM 502, RAM 503, hard disk 504, card payment unit 508, change machine 509, audio output unit 514, and communication unit 515 of the registered settlement device 34 are similar to the CPU 401, ROM 402, RAM 403, hard disk 404, card payment unit 408, change machine 409, audio output unit 414, and communication unit 415 of the settlement device 40, so some or all of the description will be omitted.

The customer display unit 505 is a touch display that displays various information to the customer and accepts various inputs from the customer.

The customer-side scanner unit 506 is a scanner unit for customers, and optically reads various information. For example, the customer-side scanner unit 506 optically reads barcodes (product codes, etc.) attached to products and codes (barcodes, two-dimensional codes, etc.) printed on bills. In addition to the above, the customer-side scanner unit 506 may also read gift certificates (gift certificates, coupons, preferential coupons) and codes (barcodes, two-dimensional codes, etc.) printed on various cards (e.g., membership cards, point cards, etc.).

The customer-side scanner unit 506 is used when a customer registers an item, but the customer may register the item using other methods. For example, if a preset key (a button for ordering the item) corresponding to the item is displayed on the customer-side display unit 505, the customer may operate (press) the preset key to register the item.

The store clerk display unit 510 is a touch display for the store clerk, which displays various information to the store clerk and accepts various inputs from the store clerk.

The key operation section 511 has various buttons that the store clerk can operate. Reference numeral 511a is a mode switching button that switches between operation modes.

The store clerk scanner unit 512 is a scanner unit for store clerks, and optically reads various types of information. For example, the store clerk scanner unit 512 optically reads barcodes attached to products and store clerk codes attached to store clerk nametags. In addition to the above, the store clerk scanner unit 512 may also read codes printed on bills, gift certificates, and various cards.

The clerk-side scanner unit 512 is used when the clerk registers a product, but the clerk may register the product using other methods. For example, if a key corresponding to a product (such as a key corresponding to a sports newspaper) is located on the key operation unit 511, the clerk may operate (press) that key to register the product. Also, if a preset key corresponding to a product is displayed on the clerk-side display unit 510, the clerk may operate that preset key to register the product.

The printing unit 513 prints and issues various media (receipts, bills, etc.). The printing unit 513 can be freely rotated to face from the store clerk side to the customer side, or from the customer side to the store clerk side (the direction of the media issuing port). The orientation of the printing unit 513 may be changed manually, or may be changed automatically (mechanically controlled, etc.) based on, for example, a change in operating mode. The correct orientation of the printing unit 513 may be detected by a sensor or the like.

Above, we have explained each of groups A to F of the product sales data processing system 1 shown in Figure 1.

In the following, for ease of explanation, one of groups A through F may be referred to as group X, and one or more of groups A through F that are different from group X may be referred to as group Y.

If the product sales data processing system 1 has two groups, then group Y is one group. For example, if the product sales data processing system 1 has two groups (e.g., two groups, A and C), then group Y is one (if group X is group A, then group Y is one of group C; if group X is group C, then group Y is one of group A).

On the other hand, if the number of groups in the product sales data processing system 1 is three or more, the group Y may be one group, or two or more groups. For example, if the number of groups in the product sales data processing system 1 is three (for example, three groups: A, B, and C), the group Y may be one (if group X is group A, group Y is one of group B or one of group C, if group X is group B, group Y is one of group A or one of group C, if group X is group C, group Y is one of group A or one of group B), or two (if group X is group A, group Y is two groups B and C, if group X is group B, group Y is two groups A and C, if group X is group C, group Y is two groups A and B). Also, for example, if the number of groups in the product sales data processing system 1 is four (group A, group B, group C, and group D), group Y may be one (if group X is group A, group Y is one of group B, group C, or group D; if group X is group B, group Y is one of group A, group C, or group D; if group X is group C, group Y is one of group A, group B, or group D; if group X is group D, group Y is one of group A, group B, or group C), or group Y may be two (if group X is group A, group Y is two of groups B and C, two of groups B and D, or two of groups C and D; if group X is group B, group Y is one of groups A, group B, or group C). If group X is group C, group Y can be either A and C, or A and D, or C and D; if group X is group C, group Y can be either A and B, or A and D, or B and D; if group X is group D, group Y can be either A and B, or A and C, or B and C), or group Y can be three (if group X is group A, group Y can be B, C, and D; if group X is group B, group Y can be A, C, and D; if group X is group C, group Y can be A, B, and D; if group X is group D, group Y can be A, B, and C).

The product sales data processing system 1 can provide information about group Y to customers who use group X. In other words, the product sales data processing system 1 can provide information about one group to customers who use another group.

(Information about another group, group Y)
The information about group Y provided to customers who use group X is, for example, information for promoting the use of group Y. Specifically, the information for promoting the use of group Y may be information about the merits of using group Y, information about how to use group Y, campaign information for promoting the use of group Y, and the like.

The information on the merits of using group Y may be information on the merits of using group Y compared to group X currently being used (relative merits), or information on the merits of using group Y regardless of group X currently being used (absolute merits). For example, with regard to time, a message such as "group Y has an average processing time shorter than group X by xx seconds" is information on relative merits, while a message such as "group Y has an average processing time of xx seconds" is information on absolute merits. Furthermore, the information on merits may appeal directly (for example, a message such as "group Y has an average processing time shorter than group X by xx seconds," or "group Y has an average processing time of xx seconds"), or may be information from which merits can be read (data such as "group X has an average processing time of xx seconds," and "group Y has an average processing time of xx seconds").

The information provided regarding time (such as a message that the processing time for group Y is shorter by an average of xx seconds than for group X, a message that the processing time for group Y is an average of xx seconds, or data such as the average processing time for group X is xx seconds and the average processing time for group Y is xx seconds) may be, for example, waiting time (waiting time for the device installed in the checkout area; waiting time at the register), product registration time, total time required (time from registering one item to issuing the receipt), etc.

The waiting time for Group A (fully self-operated mobile terminal 60 and settlement device 40) is the waiting time when the settlement device 40 is free (the time from when the two-dimensional settlement code is displayed on the mobile terminal 60 until the settlement device 40 reads the two-dimensional settlement code). Since the settlement device 40 does not generally register products (i.e., the processing time per person is relatively short), if there are a fair number of settlement devices 40 installed, the waiting time (waiting time when the settlement device 40 is free) is zero or is relatively short. The same is true for the waiting time for Group B (fully self-operated registration terminal 62 and settlement device 40).

The product registration time for group A is the time it takes to register the product using the mobile terminal 60. The same applies to the time required for group B (full self-operation of the registration terminal 62 and settlement device 40).

The total time required for Group A is roughly the sum of the time to select the product to be purchased, the time to register the product using the mobile terminal 60, the time from displaying the two-dimensional checkout code on the mobile terminal 60 (waiting time) to reading the two-dimensional checkout code at the checkout device 40, and the checkout time at the checkout device 40. The total time required for Group B (full self-service operation of the registration terminal 62 and checkout device 40) is similar.

In the case of Group C (non-self-operated registration and settlement devices 30), the waiting time is the waiting time when the registration and settlement device 30 is free (the time from when the purchased item is selected until the clerk starts registering one item at the registration and settlement device 30). Because the registration and settlement device 30 handles both product registration and settlement (i.e. the processing time per person is relatively long), the waiting time (waiting time when the registration and settlement device 30 is free) is relatively long, although it depends on the number of registration and settlement devices 30 installed, etc.

The product registration time for group C is the time it takes to register the product using the registration and settlement device 30. The total time required for group C is roughly the sum of the time to select the product to be purchased, the waiting time, the time to register the product, and the time to settle the payment.

In the case of Group D (full self-operation of the registration and settlement device 31), the waiting time is the waiting time when the registration and settlement device 31 is free (the time from when the customer selects the product to be purchased until the customer starts registering one product at the registration and settlement device 31). Because the registration and settlement device 31 both registers and settles products (i.e. the processing time per person is relatively long), the waiting time (waiting time when the registration and settlement device 31 is free) is relatively long, although it depends on the number of registration and settlement devices 31 installed, etc.

The product registration time for group D is the time it takes to register the product using the registration and settlement device 31. The total time required for group D is roughly the sum of the time to select the product to be purchased, the waiting time, the product registration time, and the settlement time.

In the case of Group E (semi-self-operation of registration device 32 and settlement device 33), the waiting time is the sum of the waiting time when the registration device 32 is idle (the time from when the purchase item is selected until the clerk starts registering one item at the registration device 32) and the waiting time when the settlement device 33 is idle (the time from when the clerk finishes registering all items until the settlement device 33 starts settlement). However, the latter time (the waiting time when the settlement device 33 is idle) is zero or relatively short if the number of settlement devices 33 installed is not small.

The product registration time for group E is the time it takes to register the product using the registration device 32. The total time required for group E is roughly the sum of the time it takes to select the product to be purchased, the waiting time, the product registration time, the travel time from the registration device 32 to the checkout device 33, and the checkout time.

Note that explanations for group F (registered settlement device 34) are omitted because the waiting time and total time required differ for each operating mode.

The above-mentioned times can be calculated (collected) and stored within the product sales data processing system 1 (e.g., the transaction management device 20, etc.) so that they can be referenced as needed, such as when outputting.

As an example, the waiting time in the case of group A (fully self-operated mobile terminal 60 and settlement device 40) can be calculated and collected based on the time when the two-dimensional settlement code is displayed on the mobile terminal 60 (or the time when the Proceed to Checkout button 604 (see FIG. 7(D)) is pressed) and the time when the two-dimensional settlement code is read on the settlement terminal 40 (or the time when the product list screen (see FIG. 10) is displayed).

The registration time of the product in group A may be calculated and collected based on the registration time of the first product item and the completion time of the checkout process at the checkout terminal 40 (such as the time when the Finish button on the subsequent screen in FIG. 11 is pressed).

Note that, since the registration of products in group A is not done in the checkout area but on the sales floor (in front of the product shelves), the registration time for products in group A may be set to zero. In other words, the registration time for products in a certain group may be the time required for registration in the checkout area, and since there is no registration in the checkout area for group A, this may be set to zero.

For convenience, the total required time for group A may be calculated and collected based on the registration time of the first item and the completion time of the checkout process at the checkout terminal 40 (such as the operation time of the END button on the subsequent screen of FIG. 11), ignoring the selection time of the first item. Alternatively, it may be calculated and collected based on the operation time of the Start Shopping button 600 (see FIG. 7(A)) and the completion time of the checkout process at the checkout terminal 40. Alternatively, the registration time at the mobile terminal 60 may be ignored, and the time of the checkout process at the checkout terminal 40 may be used as the total required time for group A.

As another example, the waiting time in Group C (non-self-operated registered settlement device 30) may be measured visually by a store clerk, but it may also be possible to monitor (observe) customers waiting at the register using a camera installed in the store, and calculate and collect the time from when a customer joins the line to when processing begins as the waiting time. In addition, as a survey (sample), a medium indicating the distribution time (such as a card with the distribution time stamped on it) may be distributed to a customer when he or she reaches the end of the line, and the medium may be collected after the settlement process is completed, with the collection time recorded, and the waiting time may be calculated and collected based on the distribution time and collection time.

For Group C, the registration time of the product may be calculated and collected, for example, based on the registration time of the first item and the operation time of the subtotal button.

In the case of group C, the total time required may be measured visually by a store clerk, but for example, a camera installed in the store may be used to monitor (observe) customers, and the time from when a customer registers one item to when the checkout process is completed may be calculated and collected as the total time required. The total time required may be from the time of entry to the time of completion of checkout. The total time required (from the time of entry to the time of completion of checkout) may be calculated and collected using a camera, or a medium indicating the distribution time may be distributed when a customer enters the store, and the medium may be collected after the checkout process is completed and the collection time recorded, and the total time required (from the time of entry to the time of completion of checkout) may be calculated and collected based on the distribution time and the collection time.

For groups D to F, waiting time and total time required may be calculated and collected using button operations, cameras, media, etc.

For example, when group Y is group A, the information on how to use group Y may be announcement information (alert information) regarding an explanatory meeting (or a permanent meeting of an explanatory person) regarding how to use group A, or it may be information regarding a shopping application to be downloaded/installed on the mobile terminal 60 (for example, a two-dimensional code that, when read, accesses a screen regarding the download/installation of a shopping application, or a two-dimensional code that, when read, starts the download/installation of a shopping application). In other words, the information on how to use group Y can be said to be information to remove obstacles when considering using group Y (such as concerns that the settings, etc., when using group Y will be troublesome, or that it will be difficult to actually use).

Campaign information aimed at promoting the use of group Y includes advantageous information such as point allocation information that can be obtained when group Y is used. In addition, campaign information aimed at promoting the use of group Y may be considered to belong to the category of information regarding the benefits of using group Y.

(Group Priority)
Priorities may be set for groups A through F as follows, and information on a group with a higher priority may be provided to a customer who uses a group with a certain priority. In other words, the product sales data processing system 1 may provide information on group Y, which has a higher priority than group X, to a customer who uses group X.

Highest priority: Group A (full self-operation of the mobile terminal 60 and settlement device 40)
Second highest priority: Group B (full self-operation of registration terminal 62 and settlement device 40)
Third highest priority: Group E (semi-self operation of registration device 32 and settlement device 33)
Fourth highest priority: Group D (full self-operation of the registered settlement device 31)
Lowest priority: Group C (non-self-operation of registered settlement device 30)

Group F (registered settlement devices 34) that have multiple operating modes may have a priority set for each operating mode. For example, a registered settlement device 34 that operates in the first operating mode (face-to-face semi-self-operation operating mode) may be assigned the third priority, on par with group E. A registered settlement device 34 that operates in the second operating mode (full-self-operation operating mode) may be assigned the fourth priority, on par with group D. A registered settlement device 34 that operates in the third or fourth operating mode (operation mode as a semi-self-operation settlement device using multiple devices) may be assigned the third priority, on par with group E.

Two specific examples of the above-mentioned priority will be explained. First, for example, if the product sales data processing system 1 has three groups, A, B, and C, the product sales data processing system 1 does not provide any information to customers who use the highest priority group A, provides information on the highest priority group A to customers who use the second highest priority group B, and provides information on the highest priority group A to customers who use the lowest priority group C (information on group B may be provided instead of or in addition to information on group A). Second, for example, if the product sales data processing system 1 has two groups, A and F (face-to-face semi-self-operation operation mode), the product sales data processing system 1 does not provide any information to customers who use the highest priority group A, and provides information on the highest priority group A to customers who use the third highest priority group F (face-to-face semi-self-operation operation mode).

(Providing information according to the type of Y group)
The information on group Y provided to a customer who uses group X may be different depending on the type of group Y, or may be the same regardless of the type of group Y. For example, the information on group A provided to a customer who uses group C and the information on group B provided to a customer who uses group C may be different or the same.

An example will be described in which information relating to group A provided to a customer using group C and information relating to group B provided to a customer using group C are the same.
(1) Both group A and group B register products in front of the product shelves using the camera of their terminals (mobile terminals 60, registration terminals 62). Therefore, if the information about group A (information about the advantages of using group A) provided to customers who use group C is, for example, "You can register using the camera of your terminal in front of the product shelves, so you do not need to register at the time of payment," and the information about group B (information about the advantages of using group B) provided to customers who use group C is, for example, "You can register using the camera of your terminal in front of the product shelves, so you do not need to register at the time of payment," then the two will be the same.
(2) Settlement for both group A and group B is performed by settlement device 40. Therefore, if the information on group A (information on how to use group A) provided to a customer using group C is, for example, "method of settlement after product registration using mobile terminal 60," and the information on group B (information on how to use group B) provided to a customer using group C is, for example, "method of settlement after product registration using registration terminal 62," then the two will be the same.

An example will be described in which information relating to group A provided to a customer who uses group C is different from information relating to group B provided to a customer who uses group C.
(1) Group A uses its own mobile terminal 60 and therefore does not need to set up customer identification when visiting the store, while Group B uses the store's registered terminal 62 and therefore does not need its own mobile terminal. Therefore, if information about Group A (information about the benefits of using Group A) provided to customers who use Group C is, for example, "You do not need to set up customer identification when visiting the store," and information about Group B (information about the benefits of using Group B) provided to customers who use Group C is, for example, "You do not need to prepare your own mobile terminal," then the two will be different.
(2) Group A requires the setting (downloading and installation) of a shopping application on the mobile terminal 60, while Group B requires the use of a registration terminal 62 prepared by the store. Therefore, if the information on Group A (information on how to use Group A) provided to customers using Group C is, for example, a "two-dimensional code for accessing a screen related to downloading/installing a shopping application," and the information on Group B (information on how to use Group B) provided to customers using Group C is, for example, a "screen explaining how to use the registration terminal 62," then the two will be different.

(Information provided according to type of X group)
The information on group Y provided to a customer who uses group X may be different depending on the type of group X, or may be the same regardless of the type of group X. For example, the information on group A provided to a customer who uses group B and the information on group A provided to a customer who uses group C may be different or the same.

Here is an example in which the information about group A provided to a customer who uses group B is the same as the information about group A provided to a customer who uses group C. For example, the information about the absolute merits of using group A (the merits of using group A regardless of whether group B is currently in use) provided to a customer who uses group B is the same as the information about the absolute merits of using group A (the merits of using group A regardless of whether group C is currently in use) provided to a customer who uses group C.

Here is an example in which the information about group A provided to a customer who uses group B is different from the information about group A provided to a customer who uses group C. For example, the information about the relative merits of using group A provided to a customer who uses group B (the merits of using group A compared to group B which they are currently using) will be different from the information about the relative merits of using group A provided to a customer who uses group C (the merits of using group A compared to group C which they are currently using).

(Provision of information to store clerks)
Although the product sales data processing system 1 has been described as providing information on group Y to a customer using group X, information on group Y may be provided to a store clerk (e.g., a store clerk serving a customer using group X) instead of or in addition to a customer using group X. For example, if a customer uses group C (registered settlement device 30), information on group A may be provided to a customer using group C, information on group A may be provided to a store clerk serving a customer using group C, or information on group A may be provided to a customer using group C and a store clerk serving that customer.

(Provision of information through labeling)
The product sales data processing system 1 may provide, by display, information about group Y to a customer, etc. (a customer or a salesperson serving the customer) who uses group X. In other words, the product sales data processing system 1 may display information about group Y to a customer, etc. who uses group X. The following (1) to (5) are specific examples in which group Y is group A.

(1) For customers using group B (registered terminal 62, settlement device 40), information regarding group A (mobile terminal 60, settlement device 40) is displayed (displayed on display unit 405 of settlement device 40).
(2) Information regarding group A is displayed (displayed on the customer-side display unit 305 of the registered settlement device 30) to customers who use group C (registered settlement device 30). Also, instead of or in addition to this, information regarding group A is displayed (displayed on the clerk-side display unit 310 of the registered settlement device 30) to clerks who serve customers who use group C.
(3) Information regarding group A is displayed (on the display unit of registered settlement device 31) to customers using group D (registered settlement device 31).
(4) Information regarding group A is displayed (displayed on the customer display unit 106 of the registration device 32, and on the display unit 206 of the payment device 33) to customers who use group E (registration device 32, settlement device 33). Also, instead of or in addition to this, information regarding group A is displayed (displayed on the clerk display unit 105 of the registration device 32) to store clerks who serve customers who use group E.
(5) Information regarding group A is displayed (displayed on the customer side display unit 505 of the registered settlement device 34) to customers using group F (registered settlement device 34; for example, registered settlement device 34 in the second operating mode (full self-operation operating mode)).

(Provision of information in print)
The product sales data processing system 1 may provide information about group Y to customers who use group X by printing. That is, the product sales data processing system 1 may print information about group Y to customers who use group X. For example, information about group A (mobile terminal 60, settlement device 40) may be printed (printed on a receipt issued by the printing unit 413 of the settlement device 40, or printed on a medium other than the receipt, etc.) to customers who use group B (registration terminal 62, settlement device 40). Printing on a medium other than the receipt means issuing a medium on which information about group Y is printed to customers who use group X, separate from a receipt describing a transaction using group X.

In addition, information about group Y may be printed (printed on the bonus medium issued by the printing unit 413 of the settlement device 40, or printed on a medium other than the special medium, etc.) together with a bonus medium (coupon, discount/discount voucher, point voucher, lottery ticket, etc.) that is useful to the customer. Printing on a medium other than the bonus medium means issuing a medium on which information about group Y is printed, separate from the bonus medium provided in transactions using group X, to customers who use group X. Providing it together with the bonus medium can increase the probability that the information about group Y will be visible (and printing it on the bonus medium can further increase the probability by reducing the possibility of it being discarded).

Although the above describes printing information about group Y together with the bonus medium that is originally provided (that is, the above describes printing information about group Y together with the bonus medium on the assumption that a bonus is granted for the transaction itself using group X, regardless of whether information about group Y is provided), a bonus may also be granted for the provision of information about group Y itself. The bonus granted for the provision of information about group Y itself may be, for example, a discount applied to a specific product, or a discount applied to the entire transaction.

The method of imparting a bonus to the provision of information about group Y itself can increase the probability of the information about group Y being viewed, as can the method of printing the information about group Y together with the bonus media originally provided. The method of imparting a bonus to the provision of information about group Y itself can also be used in cases where there is no bonus media originally provided. The bonus (cost for the store) for providing information about group Y can also be managed separately (independently) from the bonus originally provided. On the other hand, the method of printing the information about group Y together with the bonus media originally provided can reduce costs (the cost of the bonus granted separately) compared to the method of imparting a bonus to the provision of information about group Y itself.

A special offer may be given for a customer's actions (response) rather than for the provision of information on group Y (at the time of provision). For example, a special offer may be given when a two-dimensional code for downloading a shopping application that is printed and issued as information on group Y (e.g., group A) is read by the customer. In other words, a special offer may be given for the act of downloading (or installing) a shopping application. The granting of a special offer for the act of downloading (or installing) a shopping application is not limited to the act of reading a two-dimensional code on a medium. For example, a special offer may be given when a two-dimensional code on a screen (e.g., two-dimensional code 325 as shown in FIG. 21(B) described later) is read and a shopping application is downloaded (or installed). For promotion, a special offer given for the act of downloading (or installing) a shopping application may be presented to the customer before the customer actually performs the download (or installation) act, such as "If you read the QR code (registered trademark) and download the app now, you will receive XX."

(Provision of information by audio)
The product sales data processing system 1 may provide information about group Y by voice to a customer, etc., who uses group X. In other words, the product sales data processing system 1 may output information about group Y by voice to a customer, etc., who uses group X. For example, information about group A (mobile terminal 60, settlement device 40) may be output by voice (e.g., voice output by the voice output unit 414 of the settlement device 40) to a customer who uses group B (registration terminal 62, settlement device 40).

(Information provided on a conditional basis)
The product sales data processing system 1 may provide information about group Y to a customer using group X, etc., in accordance with a predetermined condition. In other words, the product sales data processing system 1 may provide information when the condition is met, and may not provide information when the condition is not met. The following conditions 1 to 7 are specific examples of providing information about group A (mobile terminals 60, settlement devices 40) to a customer using group C (registered settlement devices 30).

(Condition 1) Provide information when a store clerk operates the device (provide information based on the store clerk's operation)
For example, when a store clerk operates a specified key or the like (a specified key located on the key operation unit 311 of the registered settlement device 30, or a specified button displayed on the store clerk display unit 310) to a customer using group C, information regarding group A may be provided (e.g., displayed on the customer display unit 305), but if the store clerk does not operate the specified key or the like, information regarding group A may not be provided.

For example, the store clerk may operate a predetermined key or the like if he or she determines that the customer can use group A (a purchasing method using the mobile terminal 60 and the settlement device 40). Also, for example, the store clerk may operate a predetermined key or the like if requested by the customer.

When a store clerk operates a specific key, etc., instead of or in addition to providing information about group A to the customer, the store clerk may be provided with information about group A (e.g., displayed on the store clerk display unit 310). The same applies to the case where information is provided in response to a customer's operation (described below).

When there are multiple groups Y, information on the multiple types of groups Y may be provided based on the operation of a specified key or the like. For example, when the product sales data processing system 1 has groups A, B, and C, both information on group A and information on group B may be provided to a customer using group C based on the operation of a store clerk. Alternatively, when there are multiple groups Y, information on the group Y with the highest priority may be provided based on the operation of a specified key or the like. For example, when the product sales data processing system 1 has groups A, B, and C, information on group A may be provided to a customer using group C based on the operation of a store clerk. The same applies to the case where information is provided in response to a customer's operation (described below).

Also, when there are multiple groups Y, a key or the like may be prepared for each group, and information on group Y of a type corresponding to the operated key (or button) may be provided. For example, when the product sales data processing system 1 has groups A, B, and C, a key (or button) corresponding to group A and a key (or button) corresponding to group B may be prepared, and when the clerk operates the key corresponding to group A, information on group A may be provided to a customer using group C, and when the clerk operates the key corresponding to group B, information on group B may be provided to a customer using group C. In other words, a selection means (respective keys, etc.) may be presented to the clerk, and information may be provided according to the selection made by the clerk using the selection means. The same applies to the case where information is provided according to customer operation (described below).

(Condition 2) Provide information in response to customer operations (provide information based on customer operations)
For example, if a customer using group C operates a specified button displayed on the customer side display unit 305 of the registered settlement device 30, information regarding group A may be provided, and if the customer does not operate the specified button, information regarding group A may not be provided.

(Condition 3) Providing information according to purchased items (providing information based on purchased items)
For example, for a customer using group C, if the customer purchases a specific product (e.g., a product that the customer does not want others, including store clerks, to know about), information about group A may be provided, and if the customer does not purchase the specific product, information about group A may not be provided. In other words, if a specific product is included in the products purchased by a customer using group C, information about group A may be provided, and if the specific product is not included, information about group A may not be provided. Specific products are, for example, sanitary products, contraceptive products, products related to specific hobbies (e.g., magazines for young people), products needed due to health or physical conditions, etc., but may differ depending on the position of the product among all the products handled by the store. Whether or not a product is a specific product may be stored, for example, in the product master.

(Condition 4) Provide information according to the customer's purchasing history (provide information based on the customer's purchasing history)
For example, for a customer using group C, if the customer visits the store frequently (for example, if the average number of visits per month in the past three months is equal to or greater than a threshold value), information about group A may be provided, and if the customer visits the store infrequently (for example, if the average number of visits per month in the past three months is less than a threshold value), information about group A may not be provided. The threshold value may be stored in the product sales data processing system 1 (a place where a device that determines whether the threshold value is equal to or greater can refer to). Although an example of providing information according to the frequency of visits as a purchase history has been described, information may be provided according to one or more of the purchase amount, the previous (last) visit date, and the number of items purchased instead of or in addition to the frequency of visits. Each customer (customer purchase history) may be identifiable (recognizable), for example, by a membership card or the like.

(Condition 5) Providing information according to time of day, etc. (Providing information based on time of day, etc.)
For example, when the current date and time is within a preset busy period (e.g., a busy day, a busy time period, etc.), information on group A may be provided to a customer using group C, and when it is not within the preset period, information on group A may not be provided. Since group A is effective when it is crowded, group A, which is effective when it is crowded, may be introduced at an appropriate timing (timing that is effective for appeal). Conversely, when the current date and time is not within a preset busy period, information on group A may be provided to a customer using group C, and when it is within the preset period, information on group A may not be provided. In this case, group A is introduced when there is time to spare, so that, for example, it is easy to get a reaction from customers who see the introduction of group A, and the store clerk has time to give supplementary information to the customer, which is effective.

(Condition 6) Provide information according to the number of times it has been provided in the past (provide information based on the number of times it has been provided in the past)
For example, when the number of times that information about group A has been provided to a customer who uses group C within a specified period in the past (for example, within the past week, within the past five visits) is N (N is an integer equal to or greater than 1), information about group A may be provided to that customer, and when the number of times is N or more, information about group A may not be provided to that customer. Each customer can be identified, for example, by a membership card, and the history of information provision may be stored for each customer.

(Condition 7) Provide information depending on whether or not it is used (provide information based on usage status)
When a customer who uses group C has no experience of using group A, information about group A may be provided to the customer, and when a customer has experience of using group A, information about group A may not be provided to the customer. In other words, for a customer who has used group A but is currently using group C (e.g., a customer who is not currently using group A due to a lack of battery in the mobile terminal 60), there is no need to provide information about group A, so information about group A may not be provided. The presence or absence of a history of use of group A may be determined, for example, by a membership card. Note that, when a customer has a history of use of group A but has used group A infrequently or has not used group A recently, information about group A may be provided.

Note that the above conditions 1 to 7 may be combined as appropriate. For example, as an example of combining condition 1 and condition 4, if a customer using group C (registered settlement device 30) visits the store frequently, a predetermined button may be displayed on the clerk display unit 310, and when the clerk operates the predetermined button, information regarding group A may be provided to the customer (displayed on the customer display unit 305, etc.). As another example of combining condition 2 and condition 3, if a customer using group C (registered settlement device 30) purchases a specific product, a predetermined button may be displayed on the customer display unit 305, and when the customer operates the predetermined button, information regarding group A may be provided to the customer (displayed on the customer display unit 305, etc.).

Figure 21 is an example of a display on the display unit of the registration and settlement device 30. Specifically, Figure 21 (A) is an example of a subtotal screen on the clerk's display unit 310 after a clerk operates the registration and settlement device 30, registers the products purchased by customer K (canned beer, asparagus), and operates the subtotal button. Figure 21 (B) is an example of a screen displayed on the customer's display unit 305 when the subtotal screen shown in Figure 21 (A) is displayed on the clerk's display unit 310. Customer K is a customer who uses group C (registration and settlement device 30).

At the bottom of the small-scale display screen in FIG. 21(A), a message display button BT21 and a registration screen button BT26 are located. The message display button BT21 is a button that indicates that a message is displayed on the customer display unit 305. The registration and settlement device 30 displays the button (places it on the small-scale display screen) when a message is displayed on the customer display unit 305, and does not display the button (places it on the small-scale display screen) when no message is displayed on the customer display unit 305. The operation when the message display button BT21 is operated will be described later. The registration screen button BT26 is a button for returning the screen from the small-scale display screen to the registration screen. When the registration screen button BT26 is operated, the registration and settlement device 30 returns the screen from the small-scale display to the registration screen. The registration screen button BT26 is used, for example, when changing (adding, canceling) a purchased item.

The information provision area R01 of the screen in FIG. 21(B) is an area that displays various information. In the example shown in FIG. 21(B), information about group A is displayed in the information provision area R01. Specifically, the information about group A includes a message MS1, a message MS2, and a two-dimensional code 325. The message MS1 is an example of information about the merits of using the mobile terminal 60 (group A). Specifically, the message MS1 indicates the time (xx minutes) required for registration in the registered settlement device 30 (group C), and that the time (xx minutes) will be eliminated (eliminated) when registration using the mobile terminal 60 (group A) is used. The message MS2 and the two-dimensional code 325 are examples of information about how to use group A. Specifically, the message MS2 is a message that explains the two-dimensional code 325. The two-dimensional code 325 is a two-dimensional code that starts the download/installation of a shopping application by reading it (or accesses a screen related to the download/installation of a shopping application). That is, when customer K reads the two-dimensional code 325 with his/her own smartphone or the like, the download/installation of the shopping application is started on the smartphone (or the smartphone accesses a screen related to the download/installation of the shopping application). Note that when the information providing area R01 is not displaying information related to group A, it may display, for example, advertising information about new products, services, etc.

When the message display button BT21 on the small-scale display in FIG. 21 (A) is operated, a message identical or similar to the message displayed on the customer display unit 305 (for example, a summary of the same gist) is displayed on the store clerk display unit 310 (small-scale display). In this example, a message identical or similar to the message MS1 displayed on the customer display unit 305 is displayed on the store clerk display unit 310. Note that instead of or in addition to the message MS1, a message identical or similar to the message MS2 or a two-dimensional code 325 (or a message indicating that the two-dimensional code 325 is being displayed) may be displayed on the store clerk display unit 310. Note that a message may be displayed directly on the small-scale display (displayed around the symbol a or around the symbol b. When displayed around the symbol b, a summary may be displayed or scrolled, etc.), or a pop-up screen may be displayed on the small-scale display and the message may be displayed on the pop-up screen.

The registration and settlement device 30 may erase the message displayed on the store clerk display unit 310 based on a specified operation (e.g., pressing the message display button BT21 again, or, if the message is to be displayed on a pop-up screen, pressing the OK button or the like located on the pop-up screen, etc.).

As explained above, the registration settlement device 30 displays the Message Displaying button BT21 (placed on the small display screen) when a message is displayed on the customer display unit 305, and does not display the Message Displaying button BT21 when no message is displayed on the customer display unit 305. However, the registration settlement device 30 may display the Message Displaying button BT21 in an operable manner when a message is displayed on the customer display unit 305, and display the Message Displaying button BT21 in an inoperable manner when no message is displayed on the customer display unit 305. Also, the registration settlement device 30 may always display the Message Displaying button BT21 in an operable manner on the customer display unit 305, and display an error or a message that no message is displayed on the customer display unit 305 if the Message Displaying button BT21 is operated when no message is displayed on the customer display unit 305.

Also, while it has been explained that the registration settlement device 30 displays the message display button BT21 when a message is displayed on the customer display unit 305, it may simply display a message on the clerk display unit 310 that is the same as or similar to the message displayed on the customer display unit 305. In other words, while Figures 21 (A) and (B) are examples of displaying a message that is the same as or similar to the message displayed on the customer display unit 305 via the message display button BT21 (based on the operation of the message display button BT21), instead, it may simply display a message that is the same as or similar to the message displayed on the customer display unit 305 on the clerk display unit 310 without (without) using the message display button BT21.

The messages shown in Figures 21(A) and (B) as information regarding group A are just examples. For example, different messages may be displayed as information regarding group A depending on the situation. For example, although the messages have been described as being displayed on a receipt, messages such as those shown in Figure 22(B) (MS5, MS6) may also be displayed.

Also, while Figures 21 (A) and (B) are examples when the subtotal screen is displayed (i.e., after the subtotal button is operated), the same applies when the registration screen is displayed (i.e., before the subtotal button is operated). In other words, instead of or in addition to after the subtotal key is operated, the registration and settlement device 30 may display a message on the customer display unit 305 as information about Group A, and may display the message display button BT21 on the store clerk display unit 310 before the subtotal key is operated.

Figure 22 is an example of a receipt. Specifically, Figure 22 (A) is an example of a receipt printed and issued by the registered settlement device 30 when settling the scene in Figure 21 (A) (total amount 383 yen) with a deposit (503 yen). At the bottom of the receipt shown in Figure 22 (A), message MS3, message MS4, and two-dimensional code 326 are displayed as information related to group A. Message MS3 is the same as message MS1 described above. Message MS4 is the same as message MS2 described above. Two-dimensional code 326 is the same as two-dimensional code 325 described above. Note that in this example, the message printed on the receipt as message MS3 is the same as message MS1 displayed on the customer display unit 305, but may be a different message with the same meaning. The same applies to the message printed on the receipt as message MS4.

22(B) is an example of a receipt printed and issued by the registration settlement device 30 when a specific product (e.g., a denture cleaner, which is a product that you do not want others, including store clerks, to know about) is purchased. At the bottom of the receipt shown in FIG. 22(B), messages MS5, MS6, and a two-dimensional code 327 are displayed as information about group A. The message MS5 is an example of information about the benefits of using the mobile terminal 60 (group A). Specifically, the message MS5 indicates that if registration is made using the mobile terminal 60 (group A), the specific product can be purchased alone (without being known to others). The message MS6 is the same as the message MS2 (MS4) described above. The two-dimensional code 327 is the same as the two-dimensional code 325 (326) described above. In this example, the message MS6 printed on the receipt is the same as the message MS2 displayed on the customer side display unit 305, but it may be a different message with the same meaning.

Figures 23 and 24 are flowcharts showing an example of the operation of the registered settlement device 30. Using Figures 23 and 24, an example will be described in which the product sales data processing system 1 provides information about group Y to a customer using group X, where group X is group C (registered settlement device 30) and group Y is group A (mobile terminal 60, settlement device 40).

Note that steps S31, S32, S33, S34, S35, S37, and S38 in FIG. 23 are similar to steps S31, S32, S33, S34, S35, S37, and S38 in FIG. 14, and therefore some or all of the description will be omitted.

Step S31A in FIG. 23: The registered settlement device 30 executes the information provision process (see FIG. 24(A) , described below). Then, proceed to step S31.

Step S31: The registered settlement device 30 determines whether or not the barcode attached to the product has been scanned. If the barcode has been scanned (step S31 (YES)), the process proceeds to step S32. If the barcode has not been scanned (step S31 (NO)), the process returns to step S31A.

Step S32: The registration settlement device 30 registers the product. Then, proceed to step S33A.

Step S33A: The registered settlement device 30 executes the information provision process (see FIG. 24(A) and described later). Then, proceed to step S33.

Step S33: The registered settlement device 30 determines whether the barcode attached to the product has been scanned. If the barcode has been scanned (step S33 (YES)), the process returns to step S32. If the barcode has not been scanned (step S33 (NO)), the process proceeds to step S34.

Step S34: The registration and settlement device 30 determines whether the subtotal button (a button that completes the registration of the product) has been operated. If the subtotal button has been operated (step S34 (YES)), the process proceeds to step S35A. If the subtotal button has not been operated (step S34 (NO)), the process returns to step S33A.

Step S35A: The registered settlement device 30 executes the information provision process (see FIG. 24(A) and described later). Then, proceed to step S35.

Step S35: The registered settlement device 30 accepts the insertion of coins. Then proceed to step S36.

Step S36: The registered settlement device 30 determines whether the deposited amount is equal to or greater than the total amount (total amount of registered products). If the deposited amount is equal to or greater than the total amount (step S36 (YES)), proceed to step S37. If the deposited amount is not equal to or greater than the total amount (step S36 (NO)), return to step S35A.

Step S37: The registered settlement device 30 determines whether the billing button has been operated. If the billing button has been operated (step S37 (YES)), proceed to step S38A. If the billing button has not been operated (step S37 (NO)), return to step S35A.

Step S38A: The registered settlement device 30 prints and issues a receipt (see Figure 24 (B) (described later)). This flowchart then ends.

Figure 24 (A) shows the information provision process (steps S31A, S33A, and S35A in Figure 23).

Step S100 in FIG. 24 (A): The registered settlement device 30 determines whether the value of the information provision flag is 1. The information provision flag is set (the value is 1) when it is determined that information regarding group A will be provided. The value of the information provision flag is 0 at the start of each transaction. If the value of the information provision flag is 1 (step S100 (YES)), proceed to step S103. If the value of the information provision flag is not 1 (step S100 (NO)), proceed to step S101.

Step S101: The registered settlement device 30 determines whether or not it is necessary to provide information about group A. For example, the registered settlement device 30 determines whether or not it is necessary to provide information about group A based on a predetermined condition. Note that the predetermined condition may be, for example, one or more of the above-mentioned conditions 1 to 7. If it is necessary to provide information about group A (step S101 (YES)), proceed to step S102. If it is not necessary to provide information about group A (step S101 (NO)), this flowchart ends (return to FIG. 23).

Step S102: The registered settlement device 30 sets the value of the information provision flag to 1. Then, proceed to step S103.

Step S103: The registration settlement device 30 displays information about group A. Note that if information about group A is already being displayed, the information about group A continues to be displayed. This flowchart then ends (returning to FIG. 23).

Figure 24 (B) shows the information provision process (step S38A in Figure 23).

Step S110 in FIG. 24 (B): The registered settlement device 30 determines whether the value of the information provision flag is 1. If the value of the information provision flag is 1 (step S110 (YES)), proceed to step S112. If the value of the information provision flag is not 1 (step S110 (NO)), proceed to step S111.

Step S111: The registered settlement device 30 prints and issues a receipt, similar to step S38 in FIG. 14. The registered settlement device 30 also dispenses any change that may be due. Then, proceed to step S113.

Step S112: The registered settlement device 30 prints and issues a receipt. Information about group A is printed on the receipt. The registered settlement device 30 also dispenses any change that is due. Then, proceed to step S113.

Step S113: The registered settlement device 30 sets the value of the information provision flag to 0. This flowchart then ends.

According to the flowcharts in Figures 23 and 24, for example, if the specified condition in step S101 is condition 1 (information about group A is provided when the store clerk operates a specified key, etc.), the establishment of condition 1 (operation of a specified key, etc. by the store clerk) is captured in the information provision process (steps S31A, S33A, S35A in Figure 23), and information about group A is displayed (step S103 in Figure 24 (A)), and the information about group A is printed on the receipt (step S112 in Figure 24 (B)).

(Example using video)
In the above, the information on group Y is provided to customers using group X by display, by printing, and by voice. However, although it is related to display and voice, it may be provided by video. For example, a video (such as a video showing how to use the new group Y, its merits, and features) may be displayed on a customer screen (e.g., the customer display unit 305 of the registration settlement device 30, the customer display unit 106 of the registration device 32, etc.), or a signage (electronic announcement device) may be installed in the row of each device (e.g., the registration settlement device 30, the registration settlement device 31, the registration device 32, the settlement device 33, etc.) and the video may be displayed on the signage. This allows information on group Y to be provided during waiting time. Alternatively, or in addition to the above, a video may be displayed on a screen that is mainly operated by customers (e.g., the screen of the registration settlement device 31, the display unit 206 of the settlement device 33, etc.).

Although the above description has been given of downloading/installing a shopping application by reading a two-dimensional code (printed on a medium or displayed on a screen), scanning a two-dimensional code (printed on a medium or displayed on a screen) may access a video site and allow the user to view a video as described above. The shopping application may also be downloaded while (or after) viewing a video. For example, the two-dimensional code may always be displayed as part of the video (the two-dimensional code may be displayed after the video is played).

The output forms of a two-dimensional code (e.g., a QR code (registered trademark)) for downloading a shopping application have been described as being displayed on a screen (including video), printed on a medium, and as audio. However, the following output forms of a two-dimensional code are also possible (including those already described):
(1) Printed on receipts and bonus media (or printed and issued separately)
(2) printed on flyers distributed by store staff at the store entrance (3) printed on posters or the like posted up inside the store (4) displayed on electronic advertising devices (signage) inside the store (5) printed on flyers distributed to households within the trade area (6) displayed on the store's homepage Any of the two-dimensional codes (1) to (6) above may be coded information that can identify each of them (the type (1) to (6)) in addition to information for downloading the shopping application (information on the access destination, etc.). In other words, the shopping application can be downloaded by reading any of the two-dimensional codes (1) to (6), but the store (service provider) may also be able to recognize (tally, etc.) which of the two-dimensional codes (1) to (6) was read and the shopping application was downloaded.

By tallying the data as described above, the store can determine which method is the most effective solicitation method leading to the download of the shopping application, and can optimize the solicitation method by shifting to a method that is deemed more effective. The aggregated information may also be incorporated into the system to control the output of the two-dimensional code. For example, with regard to (1), if it is determined that downloads via receipts are going well (for example, if the number of downloads within a specified period exceeds the initially planned target number), control information to increase the output frequency of the two-dimensional code by (1) may be sent to the settlement device 40, and if it is determined that downloads are going poorly (for example, if the number of downloads falls below one-third of the target number), it may be determined that the method is ineffective and the output frequency of the two-dimensional code by (1) may be reduced (or the output frequency may be increased as a reinforcement). In this regard, methods that are determined to be less effective may be scaled down or discontinued, so as not to leave a bad impression on the recipients due to excessive solicitation (advertising).

When optimizing solicitation methods, it is preferable to take into account the costs associated with each method. For example, in (1), if a medium on which a two-dimensional code is printed is issued separately from the receipt, the paper for that medium is considered as a cost. The same goes for electricity charges and lease fees. Also, if a special benefit is offered as a solicitation (the above-mentioned "method of offering a special benefit for the provision of information on group Y itself"), the special benefit is considered as a cost. These costs can also be incorporated into the system (set as parameters to be referenced in determining whether the evaluation is going well or not) to control the output of the two-dimensional code.

(Transaction information for each group is stored in a common memory area)
In the product sales data processing system 1, the transaction information processed by each group (groups A to F) may be stored in a common storage area. For example, the transaction information (cart information) of group A is stored in the transaction management device 20, but the transaction information of groups other than group A may also be stored in the transaction management device 20. The transaction information processed by each group (groups A to F) may be stored in the same file of the same device (for example, the transaction management device 20) or in different files of the same device.

Furthermore, regardless of whether the transaction information processed by each group (groups A to F) is stored in a common storage area or whether the transaction information processed by each group is stored in the same file when it is stored in a common storage area, information that can identify which group processed each piece of transaction information may be stored. Specifically, for example, identification information that can identify each group may be assigned (e.g., G01 for group A, G02 for group B, G03 for group C, G04 for group D, G05 for group E, G06 for group F, etc.), and identification information corresponding to the group that processed each transaction may be stored within the transaction information (or associated with the transaction information). In addition, identification information that can identify the type of device is assigned (for example, DM01 for registered settlement device 30, DM02 for registered settlement device 31, DM03 for registered device 32, DM04 for settlement device 33, DM05 for registered settlement device, DM06 for settlement device 40, DM07 for mobile terminal 60, DM08 for registered terminal 62, etc.), and instead of or in addition to the identification information corresponding to the group that processed each transaction, identification information that identifies the type of device that performed the registration process and settlement process in each transaction is stored (for example, DM01 and DM01 are stored when the registration process and settlement process are performed by registered settlement device 30, and DM07 and DM06 are stored when the registration process is performed by mobile terminal 60 and the settlement process is performed by settlement device 40).

(Modification)
In the above description, an example was described in which information on another group that the customer has not yet used (or another group that the customer has used but has used less frequently) is provided to a customer who uses a certain group. However, information on the group may be provided to a customer who uses a certain group. That is, the product sales data processing system 1 may provide information on group Z (one of groups A to F) to a customer who uses group Z. For example, the product sales data processing system 1 may provide information on group A to a customer who uses group A. The information on group Z provided in this case may be, for example, information that a privilege such as points will be given to the customer when the customer introduces group Z to another customer (specifically, another customer who does not use group Z). In addition, a medium on which a two-dimensional code (see FIG. 22) is printed may be issued separately from the receipt printed and issued to the customer, or in a manner that can be easily separated, so that the customer can easily hand it over to another customer (i.e., to prevent the customer from knowing the product he or she purchased).

<Overview of the embodiment>
[Technical field]
The present invention relates to a settlement system.
[Background Art]
There are cases where multiple services related to the sale of goods coexist. For example, a system that provides multiple payment methods in a store is known (see, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-233634).
[Prior Art Literature]
[Patent Documents]
[Patent Document 1] JP 2016-081072 A [Summary of the Invention]
[Problem to be solved by the invention]
However, problems may arise in that a service is not used as intended (for example, in a case where a new service is introduced and multiple services, both old and new, exist, the new service). The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and has an object to promote the use of services.

[Means for solving the problems]
(1) One aspect of this embodiment that solves the above-mentioned problems is a settlement system that includes a first settlement means that performs settlement processing based on registered product information, a second settlement means that is different from the first settlement means, and an output means that outputs information regarding the second settlement means when settlement is performed by the first settlement means.
The first settlement means is, for example, a registered settlement device 30 in group C (settlement for non-self-operation), a settlement device 33 in group E (settlement for semi-self-operation), a registered settlement device 31 in group D (settlement for full-self-operation), and a settlement device 40 in group B (settlement for full-self-operation using a loaned registered terminal 62).
The second settlement means is, for example, the settlement device 33 of group E (settlement for semi-self-operation), the registered settlement device 31 of group D (settlement for full self-operation), the settlement device 40 of group B (settlement for full self-operation using a rented registered terminal 62), and the settlement device 40 of group A (settlement for full self-operation using a personally owned mobile terminal 61).
The second settlement means is different from the first settlement means, so for example, if the first settlement means is group D, the second settlement means is group E, group B, or group A excluding group D.
Information relating to the second settlement means is, for example, information relating to the efficiency of the second settlement means (information relating to benefits), information relating to how to use it, a two-dimensional code, etc.
According to the above configuration, it is possible to promote the use of the service (second settlement means).
In recent years, for example, in many supermarkets, the service of product registration and payment (transaction method, transaction mode) is not the same. In addition to the traditional service in which the clerk performs all of the product registration and payment, multiple services are mixed in the same store, such as a service in which the clerk only registers the product and the customer performs the payment, and a service in which the customer performs all of the product registration and payment. Recently, product registration using a mobile terminal dedicated to registration loaned when entering the store, a shopping cart with a registration function, a product registration application that can be installed on the customer's mobile phone, etc. has become widespread, and customers' choices are increasing more and more. In such a situation, even if a new service is introduced, customers may not notice the existence of the new service. Or, even if they notice the existence of a new service, there are limited ways to know the features (especially the features) by simply recognizing its existence, and in fact, the only methods are flyers and posters distributed in stores and verbal announcements by store clerks. In addition, there are many customers who have a strong psychological resistance to new things, and it is not easy to attract customers' attention to the new service that has been introduced with such a notification method. In addition, when a new service is introduced, it is often given a distinctive name and advertised with that name prominently. For example, many companies have launched services using two-dimensional codes, and all of them are marketed with similar names. For this reason, when customers find out that a service uses two-dimensional codes, they often mistakenly assume that it is the same service as the many other services launched by various companies, even though it is actually a different service (for example, the above-mentioned service A), and it is very difficult to further interest such customers.
Under such circumstances, the above configuration can effectively promote the use of the service (second settlement means).

(2) The payment system according to (1) above, wherein the first payment means performs payment processing through an operation by a store clerk.
In addition, among Group C (non-self-service operation), Group E (semi-self-service operation), Group D (full self-service operation), and Group B (full self-service operation), in Group C, settlement processing is carried out by the operation of the store clerk (operation of the registered settlement device 30).
According to the above-mentioned configuration, it is possible to effectively promote the use of the service, that is, it is possible to recommend to a customer who does not use the self-operation system to settle the account by using another operation system.

(3) The settlement system according to (1) or (2) is characterized in that the first settlement means performs settlement processing through an operation by a customer.
In addition, among Group C (non-self-operation), Group E (semi-self-operation), Group D (full self-operation), and Group B (full self-operation), in Groups E, D, and B, settlement processing is carried out by customer operation (operation of the settlement device 33 in Group E, operation of the registration terminal 62 in Group D, and operation of the mobile terminal 60 in Group A).
According to the above-mentioned configuration, it is possible to effectively promote the use of the service, that is, it is possible to recommend a customer who is currently paying for his/her own bill to pay for his/her own bill using another method.

(4) The payment system according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein the second payment means performs payment for product information registered on a portable device that can be registered at the sales floor.
Of Group E (semi-self-service operation), Group D (full-self-service operation), Group B (full-self-service operation), and Group A (full-self-service operation), in Groups E and D products are registered using stationary devices (registration device 32 in Group E, registration and settlement device 31 in Group D), while in Groups B and A products are registered using portable devices that can be registered on the sales floor (registration terminal 62 in Group B, portable terminal 60 in Group A).
According to the above-mentioned configuration, it is possible to effectively promote the use of the service, that is, it is possible to recommend payment by registering a mobile device (a device other than a stationary device) that can be registered at the sales floor.

(5) A settlement system as described in any of (1) to (4), further comprising a calculation means for calculating the time required until settlement by the first settlement means (such as waiting time at the register), and the output means outputs information regarding the time calculated by the calculation means.
According to the above-described configuration, it is possible to effectively promote the use of the service by using the time required for payment.

(6) A settlement system described in any of (1) to (5), characterized in that the output means outputs information for downloading an application necessary to use the second settlement means (e.g., see Figures 21 (B), 22 (A) and (B)).
According to the above-described configuration, it is possible to preferably promote the use of the service. That is, the use of the service is promoted because a method of use is provided.

(7) A settlement system described in any of (1) to (6), further comprising a registration means for registering products, and the output means for outputting information based on information about the registered products (e.g., whether or not the products are specific products).
According to the above configuration, it is possible to effectively promote the use of the service. That is, the use of the service is promoted because information is provided appropriately when needed.

(8) A settlement system described in any of (1) to (7), further comprising a selection means (e.g., a button corresponding to the week type of the second settlement means) for outputting information regarding the second settlement means, and the output means outputs information regarding the second settlement means selected by the selection means.
According to the above-described configuration, it is possible to appropriately promote the use of services. That is, since appropriate selection is made and information is effectively provided in accordance with the selection, the use of services is promoted.

(9) The settlement system described in (1) is characterized in that it includes a storage means for storing transaction information settled by the first settlement means and transaction information settled by the second settlement means.
According to the above configuration, transaction information is shared, and cooperation between a plurality of services can be achieved.

In addition, a program for implementing one or more functions of each of the above-mentioned devices (management device 10, transaction management device 20, registration and settlement device 30, registration and settlement device 31, registration device 32, settlement device 33, registration and settlement device 34, settlement device 40, monitoring device 50, mobile terminal 60, registration terminal 62) 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 process each of the above-mentioned devices. Here, "reading a program recorded on a recording medium into a computer system and executing it" includes installing a program into a computer system. The "computer system" here includes hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices. In addition, the "computer system" may include multiple computer devices connected via a network including communication lines such as the Internet, WAN, LAN, and dedicated lines. In addition, the "computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, optical magnetic disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, and storage devices such as hard disks built into a computer system. In this way, the recording medium storing the program may be a non-transient recording medium such as a CD-ROM. The recording medium also includes a recording medium provided inside or outside the distribution server that can be accessed in order to distribute the program. The code of the program stored in the recording medium of the distribution server may be different from the code of the program in a format executable by the terminal device. In other words, the format in which the program is stored in the distribution server does not matter as long as it can be downloaded from the distribution server and installed in a format executable by the terminal device. Note that the program may be divided into multiple parts, downloaded at different times, and then combined on the terminal device, or each of the divided programs may be distributed by a different distribution server. Furthermore, the "computer-readable recording medium" includes a memory that holds a program for a certain period of time, such as a volatile memory (RAM) inside a computer system that becomes a server or client when a program is transmitted over a network. The above program may also be one for realizing part of the above-mentioned functions. Furthermore, the program may be one that can realize the above-mentioned functions in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system, a so-called difference file (difference program).

Reference Signs List 1 Product sales data processing system 10 Management device 20 Transaction management device 30 Registration and settlement device 31 Registration and settlement device 32 Registration device 33 Settlement device 34 Registration and settlement device 40 Settlement device 50 Monitoring device 60 Portable terminal 62 Registration terminal 70 Shopping cart 72 Shopping cart

Claims (5)

A first settlement means for performing a settlement process based on the registered product information;
A second settlement means different from the first settlement means;
and an output means for outputting information about the second settlement means when settlement is made by the first settlement means,
The second settlement means is
A payment process is carried out by the customer based on the product information registered by the customer's operation,
The output means includes:
A settlement system, characterized by outputting information for downloading an application required to use the second settlement means . The first settlement means is
2. The payment system according to claim 1, wherein payment processing is performed by an operation of a store clerk. A settlement device for performing settlement processing,
A settlement means for carrying out a settlement process based on the registered product information;
and an output means for outputting, when a payment is made by the payment means, information about a payment device other than the payment device that performs a payment process by an operation of a customer based on the product information registered by an operation of the customer ,
The output means includes:
and outputting information for downloading an application required for using a settlement device that is different from the settlement device and performs settlement processing by a customer's operation based on the product information registered by the customer's operation.
A settlement device characterized by: A program for causing a first computer to function as a first settlement device and a second computer to function as a second settlement device different from the first settlement device,
The first computer,
a first settlement means for carrying out settlement processing based on the registered product information; and a function as an output means for outputting information regarding the second settlement device when settlement is carried out by the first settlement means.
The second computer,
functioning as a second settlement means for carrying out settlement processing by a customer's operation based on the product information registered by the customer's operation ;
The output means includes:
Outputting information for downloading an application required for using the second settlement device
A program characterized by: A program for causing a computer to function as a settlement device,
The computer,
A settlement means for performing settlement processing based on the registered product information;
When the payment is made by the payment means, the payment means functions as an output means for outputting information about a payment means which is different from the payment means and which performs a payment process by an operation of the customer based on the product information registered by an operation of the customer ,
The output means includes:
and outputting information for downloading an application required for using a settlement device that is different from the settlement device and performs settlement processing by a customer's operation based on the product information registered by the customer's operation.
A program characterized by:

Images