JP2020138550A - Printer, recording medium, and sales data processing device - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a printer which can keep recognizing a near end of a record medium which is recognized once, a recording medium and a sales data processing device.SOLUTION: A printer includes: a conveyance part for conveying a long recording medium on which a belt-like mark is formed to predetermined length from a terminal end part continuously; a mark detection part for detecting presence/absence of the mark on the recording medium on a conveyance passage in which the conveyance part conveys the recording medium toward a printing part; and near end recognition means for recognizing that the recording medium is at the near end based on the detection of the presence of the mark by the mark detection part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

Embodiments of the present invention relate to printers, recording media and sales data processing devices.

Conventionally, there are printers mounted or connected to POS (Point of Sales) or the like. These printers print product information and payment information of products sold at stores while transporting long receipt paper. When such a printer detects the near-end mark printed near the end of the receipt paper, it is possible to recognize that the receipt paper is near-end.

However, conventional printers detect near-end marks printed on receipt paper at a plurality of locations at predetermined intervals. Therefore, for example, if the receipt paper is displaced in the transport direction when the cover of the printer is opened after detecting the near end mark, the conventional printer may not detect the near end mark again when the cover is closed thereafter. .. Therefore, the conventional printer may not recognize the near end of the receipt paper once recognized as the cover is opened and closed.

An object to be solved by the present invention is to provide a printer, a recording medium, and a sales data processing apparatus capable of continuing to recognize the near end of a recording medium once recognized.

The printer of the embodiment has a transport unit that transports a long recording medium having a strip-shaped mark having a predetermined length longer than a deviation that occurs continuously in the transport direction from the terminal portion, and the transport unit is the recording unit. Based on the mark detection unit that detects the presence or absence of the mark on the recording medium on the transport path that conveys the medium toward the printing unit, and the detection by the mark detection unit that the mark is present, the recording medium is the terminal portion. It is provided with a near-end recognition means for recognizing that it is approaching.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the self-POS terminal. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a state in which the printer cover is opened. FIG. 4 is a view of the end portion of the receipt paper as viewed from the back side. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of a self-POS terminal. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the printer. FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration of the printer. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the flow of control processing in the printer. FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration of the self-POS terminal. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of control processing. FIG. 11 is a view of the end portion of another receipt paper viewed from the back side.

Hereinafter, the printer, the recording medium, and the sales data processing apparatus according to the embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings of FIGS. 1 to 11. In the embodiment, a self-POS (Point of Sales) terminal in which the customer himself / herself executes a sales registration operation and a payment operation will be described as a sales data processing device. Further, in the embodiment, the printer will be described as a device incorporated in the self-POS terminal. Further, in the embodiment, the product will be described as an example of the sales target. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a system including a self-POS terminal according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the system includes a plurality of self-POS terminals 1 and an attendant PC (Personal Computer) 2. Each self-POS terminal 1 and the attendant PC 2 are electrically connected by a communication line NT such as a LAN (Local Area Network) line.

The self-POS terminal 1 includes a registration unit that reads a product code that identifies a product to be purchased, and a payment unit that performs a payment operation based on product information corresponding to the read product code. Both the sales registration operation in the registration department and the payment operation in the payment department are performed by the customer himself. The self-POS terminal 1 executes the sales registration process based on the sales registration operation performed by the customer. Further, the self-POS terminal 1 executes the payment process based on the payment operation performed by the customer. The detailed configuration of the self-POS terminal 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
Here, the sales registration process refers to a process of displaying and storing product information such as a product name and price of the product based on the input product code. The settlement process is a process of displaying the total amount of money and the amount of change related to the transaction with the customer based on the product information of the sales registration process.

In the vicinity of each self-POS terminal 1, a camera (not shown) that monitors how a customer performs a sales registration operation and a payment operation is provided. The attendant PC 2 displays images of the customer's sales registration operation and payment operation on each self-POS terminal 1 captured by the camera. The attendant, who is a store clerk, sees the image projected on the attendant PC2, monitors the customer's sales registration operation and payment operation, and checks for fraud by the customer, for example. Further, the attendant PC 2 displays the status of the printer built in the self-POS terminal 1 such that the receipt paper R is near-end (that is, the receipt paper R is approaching the end portion), no paper, and the cover is open. To do. The attendant who sees the display performs operations such as replenishment of receipt paper on the corresponding self-POS terminal 1.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the self-POS terminal 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the self-POS terminal 1 includes a first housing 41 and a second housing 42. The first housing 41 houses a coin and banknote change machine 27 (see FIG. 5) and a control device inside. The change machine 27 stores coins and banknotes entrusted by the customer by denomination. The change machine 27 pays out change to the customer.

The first housing 41 includes a deposit unit 271 for depositing coins, an discharge unit 273 for paying out change of coins, and a saucer 272 for receiving the paid out coins. In addition, the first housing 41 includes a banknote deposit unit 274 and a banknote withdrawal unit 275 for paying out change.
Further, the first housing 41 is provided with a mounting table 25 and a mounting table 26 on the left and right sides of the side surface. The mounting table 25 has a first measuring unit 251. The mounting table 26 has a second measuring unit 261.

The mounting table 25 is a table on which a basket containing products for purchase is placed. The first weighing unit 251 weighs the total weight of the basket placed on the mounting table 25 and the products in the basket. The mounting table 26 is a table for setting a bag for loading products taken out from the mounting table 25. The second measuring unit 261 measures the total weight of the bag set on the mounting table 26 and the products in the bag.
Further, the mounting table 26 includes two columns 43 extending upward from the upper surface of the mounting table 26, a temporary table 44 formed on the upper part of the columns 43, and two extension rods 45. The extension bar 45 is a bar for setting a bag (not shown) for storing a product whose product code has been read by the reading unit 23 (see FIG. 5). The bag is opened with the handle of the bag hooked on the extension rod 45 to facilitate loading of products. Further, the temporary stand 44 is a stand on which fragile products (tofu and eggs) among the products whose product code is read by the reading unit 23 (see FIG. 5) are temporarily placed. The product placed on the temporary stand 44 is finally put in a bag.

The second housing 42 is provided above the first housing 41. The second housing 42 houses the reading unit 23, the printer 24, and the card unit 28 (all of which see FIG. 5). The reading unit 23 optically reads, for example, a symbol such as a bar code or a two-dimensional code attached to the product. The printer 24 prints the product information and the payment information of the product registered for sales by the self-POS terminal 1 on the receipt paper and issues the receipt. The card unit 28 reads customer identification information from, for example, an inserted credit card. When making a payment with a credit card, the self-POS terminal 1 executes the payment process based on the customer identification information read by the card unit 28.
Further, the second housing 42 includes a reading window 4212 of the reading unit 23, an discharging unit 55 for discharging the receipt issued from the printer 24, and an inserting unit 4211 for inserting the card into the card unit 28.

Further, the second housing 42 is provided with a display unit 22 at the top. The display unit 22 displays the product information of the product associated with the sales registration operation by the customer. In addition, the display unit 22 displays payment information associated with the payment operation by the customer.
The display unit 22 is provided with a touch panel 21 on the surface. The touch panel 21 serves as a key. The key is operated by operating the touch panel 21 at a position corresponding to the various keys displayed on the display unit 22.

Further, the second housing 42 is provided with a columnar pole 46 extending to the upper part at the rear. A light emitting portion 29 is provided at the upper tip portion of the pole 46. The light emitting unit 29 emits light when the customer performs an operation of calling an attendant. Further, the light emitting unit 29 emits light when the receipt paper of the printer 24 reaches the near end, and notifies the attendant.

The customer takes out the product from the basket placed on the mounting table 25, passes it in front of the reading window 4212, and causes the reading unit 23 to read the code attached to the product. Then, the customer puts the product into the bag placed on the mounting table 26. The customer correctly operates the self-POS terminal 1 depending on whether or not the weight change before and after the product is taken out by the first measuring unit 251 and the weight change before and after the product is put in by the second measuring unit 261 match. Determine if you are doing it. If the weight changes match, the self-POS terminal 1 executes the sales registration process.

Next, the printer 24 will be described. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a state in which the cover 56 of the printer 24 is opened from the main body 58. As shown in FIG. 3, the printer 24 includes a main body 58 and a cover 56. The main body 58 includes a storage unit 51 for storing a roll-shaped wound long receipt paper R (recording medium). Further, the main body 58 includes a transport path 52. Further, the main body 58 is provided with a platen 53 facing the transport path 52. The transport path 52 is provided with guides (not shown) on both sides. The transport path 52 provided with this guide guides the receipt paper R pulled out from the storage portion 51 toward the platen 53. The platen 53 is rotated by a platen motor 37 (see FIG. 6) to convey the receipt paper R. Further, the main body 58 is provided with a cutter 54 on the downstream side of the platen 53 in the transport direction of the receipt paper R. The cutter 54 cooperates with the cutter 59 described later to cut the receipt paper R. Further, the main body 58 includes a discharge unit 55 for discharging the cut receipt paper R.

Here, the receipt paper R will be described. FIG. 4 is a view of the vicinity of the end portion R2 of the receipt paper R as viewed from the back surface. The end portion R2 refers to the end portion at the beginning of winding of the roll-shaped receipt paper R. The receipt paper R is white on both the front and back surfaces. The surface side develops a black color when heat is applied. A black black mark R3, which is a mark, is printed (formed) on the back surface R1. The black mark R3 is continuously printed from the terminal portion R2 of the receipt paper R toward a predetermined length (about 1 m to 2 m) in the long direction of the receipt paper R. This predetermined length is longer than the length at which the receipt paper R is displaced in the transport direction, which occurs when the cover 56 is opened.

Returning to the description of FIG. Further, the main body 58 is provided with a near-end sensor 40 which is a mark detection unit so as to face the transport path 52. The near-end sensor 40 is provided at a position facing the printing position of the black mark R3 on the receipt paper R that carries the transport path 52. The near-end sensor 40 is a reflection type sensor including a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit (neither of them is shown). The near-end sensor 40 outputs a voltage corresponding to the amount of light received by the light receiving unit. When the receipt paper R having a sufficient length is on the transport path 52, the near-end sensor 40 receives the light reflected at the position of the white background of the receipt paper R on the transport path 52 by the light receiving unit. Then, the near-end sensor 40 outputs a voltage corresponding to the amount of light received by the light receiving unit. In this case, the near-end sensor 40 outputs a voltage of about 5V. In this way, the near-end sensor 40 detects that the receipt sheet R is present in the transport path 52.

Further, when the receipt paper R is not on the transport path 52, the near-end sensor 40 does not receive most of the light emitted by the light emitting unit at the light receiving unit. In this case, the near-end sensor 40 outputs a voltage of about 0 V. In this way, the near-end sensor 40 detects that there is no receipt paper R in the transport path 52.
Further, when there is a receipt paper R on which the black mark R3 is printed on the transport path 52, the near-end sensor 40 receives the light reflected by the black mark R3 of the receipt paper R that conveys the transport path 52 at the light receiving unit. The amount of light reflected by the black mark R3 and received by the light receiving unit is about half the amount of light reflected at the position of the white background. Therefore, the near-end sensor 40 outputs a voltage of about 2.5V. In this way, the near-end sensor 40 detects the black mark R3 printed on the receipt paper R that carries the transport path 52.

The cover 56 is rotatably coupled to the main body 58 via a hinge 57. When the lock (not shown) that locks the cover 56 to the main body 58 is released, the cover 56 rotates upward around the hinge 57 and is released from the main body 58. Further, when the opened cover 56 is rotated downward to lock, the cover 56 closes to the main body 58. The cover 56 includes a thermal head 38 and a cutter 59, which are printing portions. The thermal head 38 and the platen 53 come into contact with each other with the cover 56 closed to the main body 58. Further, the cutter 54 and the cutter 59 come into contact with each other with the cover 56 closed to the main body 58. The receipt paper R is sandwiched between the thermal head 38 and the platen 53. The cover 56 is opened when a new receipt paper R is attached to the printer 24 or when a paper jam occurs in the main body 58. When the cover 56 is opened, the receipt paper R is slightly displaced in the transport direction due to the influence of the curl or the like attached to the receipt paper R itself.

The printer 24 conveys the receipt paper R sandwiched between the thermal head 38 and the platen 53 by rotating the platen 53, and prints product information and payment information using the thermal head 38. Further, the printer 24 drives the cutter 54 and the cutter 59 by the cutter motor 39 (see FIG. 6) to cut the printed receipt paper R.

From here, the hardware configuration of the self-POS terminal 1 and the printer 24 will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the self-POS terminal 1. In FIG. 5, the self-POS terminal 1 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, a memory unit 14, and the like. The CPU 11 is the control subject. The ROM 12 stores various programs. The RAM 13 develops various data. The memory unit 14 stores various programs. The CPU 11, ROM 12, RAM 13, and memory unit 14 are connected to each other via the data bus 15. The CPU 11, ROM 12, and RAM 13 form the control unit 100. That is, the control unit 100 executes the control process described later by operating the CPU 11 according to the control program stored in the ROM 12 or the memory unit 14 and expanded in the RAM 13.

The memory unit 14 is composed of a non-volatile memory such as an HDD (Hard Disc Drive) or a flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off, and includes a control program unit 141 that stores a control program.

Further, the control unit 100 uses the touch panel 21, the display unit 22, the reading unit 23, the printer 24, the first measuring unit 251 and the second measuring unit 261, the change machine 27, and the card unit 28 via the data bus 15 and the controller 16. , Is connected to the light emitting unit 29.

The touch panel 21 includes keys such as a start key 211 and an end key 212 corresponding to the display of the keys on the display unit 22. The start key 211 is operated by the customer when starting the sales registration operation of the product. The end key 212 is operated by the customer when the sales registration operation of the product is completed. When the end key 212 is operated, the self-POS terminal 1 starts the payment process.

Further, the control unit 100 connects to the communication unit 48 via the data bus 15. The communication unit 48 connects to another self-POS terminal 1 or attendant PC 2 via the communication line NT.

The hardware configuration of the attendant PC 2 (not shown) is a computer including a CPU, ROM, RAM, a memory unit, a display unit, and the like. The CPU, ROM, and RAM form a control unit. That is, the control unit executes the control process described later according to the control program.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the printer 24. As shown in FIG. 6, the printer 24 includes a CPU 31, a ROM 32, a RAM 33, a memory unit 34, and the like. The CPU 31 is the control subject. The ROM 32 stores various programs. The RAM 33 develops various data. The memory unit 34 stores various programs. The CPU 31, ROM 32, RAM 33, and memory unit 34 are connected to each other via the data bus 35. The CPU 31, ROM 32, and RAM 33 constitute the control unit 300. That is, the control unit 300 executes the control process described later by operating the CPU 31 according to the control program stored in the ROM 32 or the memory unit 34 and expanded in the RAM 33.

The memory unit 34 is composed of a non-volatile memory such as an HDD or a flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off, and includes a control program unit 341 that stores a control program.

Further, the control unit 300 is connected to the platen motor 37, the thermal head 38, the cutter motor 39, the near-end sensor 40, and the cover opening sensor 47 via the data bus 35 and the controller 36. The cover opening sensor 47 is a sensor that detects that the cover 56 has been released from the main body 58 and that the cover 56 has closed to the main body 58.
Further, the control unit 300 connects to the communication unit 49 via the data bus 35. The communication unit 49 is connected to the controller 16 via the communication cable NK.

From here on, the control of the printer 24 and the self-POS terminal 1 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 7 to 10. FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration of the printer 24. The control unit 300 functions as the near-end recognition means 301 by following the control program stored in the control program unit 341 of the ROM 32 and the memory unit 34.

The near-end recognition means 301 has a function of recognizing the receipt paper R near-end based on the detection of the presence of the black mark R3 by the near-end sensor 40. Specifically, the near-end recognition means 301 recognizes that the receipt paper R is near-end based on the fact that the near-end sensor 40 detects the presence of the black mark R3 from the output of the near-end sensor 40.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the flow of control processing in the printer 24. At this point, the control unit 300 recognizes that the receipt sheet R is present. As shown in FIG. 8, the control unit 300 determines whether or not print information such as product information and payment information has been input from the self-POS terminal 1 (S11). The print information is input from the controller 16 of the self-POS terminal 1. When it is determined that the print information has been input (Yes in S11), the control unit 300 rotates the platen 53 to convey the receipt paper R (S12). Then, the control unit 300 executes a printing process of printing information on the front surface side of the receipt paper R using the thermal head 38 (S13). When the printing process is completed, the control unit 300 makes the cutter 54 and the cutter 59 work together to cut the printed receipt paper R and discharges it from the discharge unit 55 (issues a receipt) (S14). Then, the control unit 300 returns to S11.

If it is determined that no print information has been input (No in S11), the control unit 300 keeps the output from the near-end sensor 40 within a certain range (for example, 2V to 3V) centered on 2.5V. It is determined whether or not there is (S21). It is desirable that the output of the near-end sensor 40 when the black mark R3 passes the installation position of the near-end sensor 40 in the transport path is 2.5V. However, due to the influence of printing unevenness of the black mark R3 printed on the receipt paper R, the output of the near-end sensor 40 when the black mark R3 passes may fluctuate around 2.5V. Therefore, the control unit 300 determines in S21 whether or not the output from the near-end sensor 40 is within a certain range centered on 2.5V. When the output from the near-end sensor 40 is within a certain range centered on 2.5 V, the control unit 300 determines that the near-end sensor 40 has detected the black mark R3 in the transport path 51. When it is determined that the black mark R3 is detected (Yes in S21), the control unit 300 cancels the recognition of the presence of paper (S22). Next, the control unit 300 recognizes that the receipt sheet R is near-end (S23). Then, the control unit 300 outputs information indicating that the receipt sheet R is near-end to the self-POS terminal 1 (S24).

Next, the control unit 300 determines whether or not the cover 56 has been opened (S25). When the cover opening sensor 47 detects the opening of the cover 56, the control unit 300 determines that the cover 56 has been opened. When it is determined that the cover 56 has been opened (Yes in S25), the control unit 300 outputs information indicating that the cover has been opened to the self-POS terminal 1 (S26). Then, the control unit 300 returns to S11. On the other hand, when it is determined that the cover 56 is not open (No in S25), the control unit 300 determines whether or not the cover 56 is closed (S27). When the cover open sensor 47 detects that the cover 56 is closed, the control unit 300 determines that the cover 56 is closed. When it is determined that the cover 56 is closed (Yes in S27), the control unit 300 outputs information indicating that the cover is closed to the self-POS terminal 1 (S28). Then, the control unit 300 returns to S11. When the cover 56 is opened and the cover 56 is closed without replacing the receipt paper R, even if the receipt paper R is slightly displaced, the near-end sensor 40 keeps the black mark continuously printed on the receipt paper R. In order to detect R3, the control unit 300 continues to recognize that the receipt sheet R is near-end.

If it is determined that the output from the near-end sensor 40 is not within a certain range centered on 2.5V (No in S21), the control unit 300 determines that the output from the near-end sensor 40 is constant centering on 0V. It is determined whether or not it is within the range (for example, 0V to 0.5V) (S41). When the output of the near-end sensor 40 is 0V to 0.5V, the near-end sensor 40 detects that there is no receipt paper R. When it is determined that the output from the near-end sensor 40 is within a certain range (for example, 0V to 0.5V) centered on 0V (Yes in S41), the control unit 300 determines that the receipt sheet R is near-end. (S42). Then, the control unit 300 outputs the near-end release information to the self-POS terminal 1 (S43). Next, the control unit 300 recognizes that there is no receipt sheet R in the transport path 51 (S44). Then, the control unit 300 outputs information indicating that there is no receipt sheet R to the self-POS terminal 1 (S45).

Next, the control unit 300 determines whether or not the cover 56 has been opened (S46). When the cover opening sensor 47 detects the opening of the cover 56, the control unit 300 determines that the cover 56 has been opened. When it is determined that the cover 56 has been opened (Yes in S46), the control unit 300 outputs information indicating that the cover has been opened to the self-POS terminal 1 (S47). Then, the control unit 300 returns to S11. On the other hand, when it is determined that the cover 56 is not open (No in S46), the control unit 300 determines whether or not the cover 56 is closed (S48). When the cover open sensor 47 detects that the cover 56 is closed, the control unit 300 determines that the cover 56 is closed. When it is determined that the cover 56 is closed (Yes in S48), the control unit 300 outputs information indicating that the cover 56 is closed to the self-POS terminal 1 (S49).

Next, the control unit 300 determines whether or not the output from the near-end sensor 40 is within a certain range (for example, 4.5V to 5.5V) centered on 5V (S51). When the output of the near-end sensor 40 is 4.5V to 5.5V, the near-end sensor 40 detects that the receipt paper R is present in the transport path 51. When it is determined that the output from the near-end sensor 40 is within a certain range centered on 5V (Yes in S51), the control unit 300 cancels the recognition of no receipt paper R (S51). Then, the control unit 300 recognizes that there is paper (S53). Then, the control unit 300 outputs information indicating that there is paper to the self-POS terminal 1 (S50). In this case, a new receipt paper R is replenished from the state without paper. Then, the control unit 300 returns to S11. If it is determined in S48 that the cover 56 is not closed (No in S48), the control unit 300 returns to S11. If it is determined in S51 that the output from the near-end sensor 40 is not within a certain range centered on 5V (No in S51), the control unit 300 returns to S11.
FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration of the self-POS terminal 1. The control unit 100 functions as the notification means 101 by following the control program stored in the control program unit 141 of the ROM 12 and the memory unit 14.

The notification means 101 has a function of notifying that the printer 24 has recognized the near end of the receipt paper R.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of control processing of the self-POS terminal 1. First, the control unit 100 determines whether or not the start key 211 displayed on the display unit 22 has been operated while the self-POS terminal 1 is in the standby state (S61). The start key is operated by the customer when starting the operation of the self-POS terminal 1. It waits until it is operated (No in S61), and if it is determined that it has been operated (Yes in S61), then the control unit 100 inputs a product code that identifies the product from the reading unit 23 by the customer's sales registration operation. It is determined whether or not the product has been acquired (S62). When it is determined that the product has been acquired (Yes in S62), the control unit 100 reads the product information corresponding to the acquired product code from the product master (not shown) and stores it in the product information unit 131. Is executed (S63). Then, the control unit 100 returns to S62.

If it is determined that the product code has not been acquired (No in S62), the control unit 100 determines whether or not the end key 212 for ending the sales registration process has been operated (S64). The end key is operated by the customer when the sales registration operation on the self-POS terminal 1 is completed. If it is determined that the operation has been performed (Yes in S64), the control unit 100 executes the settlement process based on the product information stored in the product information unit 131 (S65). Then, the control unit 100 outputs the print information based on the product information and the payment information to the printer 24 (S66). Then, the control unit 100 returns to S61.

If it is determined that the end key 212 has not been operated (No in S64), the control unit 100 determines whether or not the information indicating the near end has been input from the printer 24 (S71). When it is determined that the information indicating the near end has been input (Yes in S71), the control unit 100 displays a message indicating that the printer 24 is near end on the display unit 22 (S72). Then, the control unit 100 outputs a signal indicating that the printer 24 is near-end (S73). Specifically, the control unit 100 lights or blinks the light emitting unit 29 in red. In addition, the control unit 100 transmits information indicating that it is near-end to the attendant PC2. Upon receiving this information, the attendant PC 2 displays a message on the display unit indicating that the receipt paper R of the printer 24 is near-end. Then, the control unit 100 returns to S61.
If it is determined that the information indicating the near end has not been input (No in S71), the control unit 100 determines whether or not the information indicating the near end cancellation has been input from the printer 24 (S74). When it is determined that the information indicating the near-end cancellation has been input (Yes in S74), the control unit 100 erases the display of the message indicating that the printer 24 is near-end displayed on the display unit 22 (Yes). S75). Then, the control unit 100 turns off the light emitting unit 29. Then, the control unit 100 transmits information indicating that the printer 24 has released the near end to the attendant PC 2 (S76). Upon receiving this information, the attendant PC 2 erases the display of the message indicating that the receipt paper R of the printer 24 is near-end. Then, the control unit 100 returns to S61.

If it is determined that the information indicating the near-end cancellation has not been input (No in S74), the control unit 100 determines whether or not the information indicating that there is no paper has been input from the printer 24 (S81). .. When it is determined that the information indicating that there is no paper has been input (Yes in S81), the control unit 100 displays a message on the display unit 22 indicating that there is no receipt paper R for the printer 24 (S82). Then, the control unit 100 outputs a signal indicating that the printer 24 is out of paper (S83). Specifically, the control unit 100 lights or blinks the light emitting unit 29 in red. Further, the control unit 100 transmits information indicating that there is no paper to the attendant PC2. Upon receiving this information, the attendant PC 2 displays a message on the display unit indicating that there is no receipt paper R for the printer 24. Then, the control unit 100 returns to S61.
If it is determined that the information indicating that there is no paper has not been input (No in S81), the control unit 100 determines whether or not the information indicating that there is paper has been input from the printer 24 (S84). .. When it is determined that the information indicating that there is paper has been input (Yes in S84), the control unit 100 erases the display of the message indicating that the printer 24 has no paper, which was displayed on the display unit 22. (S85). Then, the control unit 100 turns off the light emitting unit 29. Then, the control unit 100 transmits information indicating that the printer 24 has paper to the attendant PC 2 (S86). Upon receiving this information, the attendant PC 2 erases the display of the message indicating that the receipt paper R of the printer 24 does not exist. Then, the control unit 100 returns to S61.

If it is determined that the information indicating that the paper is present has not been input (No in S84), the control unit 100 determines whether or not the information indicating the opening of the cover 56 has been input from the printer 24 (No). S91). When it is determined that the information indicating the opening of the cover 56 has been input (Yes in S91), the control unit 100 displays a message on the display unit 22 indicating that the cover 56 of the printer 24 is open (Yes). S92). Then, the control unit 100 outputs information indicating that the cover 56 of the printer 24 is open to the attendant PC 2 (S93). Upon receiving this information, the attendant PC 2 displays a message on the display unit indicating that the cover 56 of the printer 24 is open. Then, the control unit 100 returns to S61.
If it is determined that the information indicating that the cover 56 has been opened has not been input (No in S91), the control unit 100 determines whether or not the information indicating that the cover 56 of the printer 24 has been closed has been input. Judgment (S94). When it is determined that the information indicating that the cover 56 of the printer 24 has been closed has been input (Yes in S94), the control unit 100 opens the cover 56 of the printer 24 displayed on the display unit 22. The display of the message indicating that the message is displayed is deleted (S95). Then, the control unit 100 transmits information indicating that the cover 56 of the printer 24 is closed to the attendant PC 2 (S96). Upon receiving this information, the attendant PC 2 erases the display of the message indicating that the cover 56 of the printer 24 has been opened. Then, the control unit 100 returns to S61. If it is determined that the information indicating that the cover 56 of the printer 24 has been closed has not been input (No in S94), the control unit 100 returns to S61.

According to the printer 24 of the embodiment, the control unit 300 of the printer 24 detects the band-shaped black mark R3 continuously printed from the end portion R2 of the receipt paper R, and the receipt paper R is near-end. Recognize that. Therefore, for example, even if the cover 56 is opened after recognizing that the receipt paper R is near-end and the receipt paper R is displaced in the transport direction, the control unit 300 again marks the black mark with the cover 56 closed. It is possible to detect R3 and recognize that the receipt sheet R is near-end. Therefore, the control unit 300 can continue to recognize the near end of the recording medium once recognized.

Further, in the printer 24 of the embodiment, once the receipt paper R is recognized as near-end, the control unit 300 recognizes that the new receipt paper R has been replenished or that there is no paper until the receipt paper R is recognized. Maintain the perception that R is near-end. Therefore, for example, even if the output of the near-end sensor 40 changes within a certain range (for example, within the range of 1V) from 2.5V due to printing unevenness of the black mark R3, the receipt paper R of the printer 24 is near-end. Can be maintained.

Further, in the receipt paper R of the embodiment, since the band-shaped black mark R3 is formed continuously from the end portion R2 of the receipt paper R to a predetermined length, for example, even if the cover 56 of the printer 24 is opened and closed, The printer 24 can continuously recognize the near end of the receipt paper R.

Further, in the self-POS terminal 1 of the embodiment, the control unit 300 of the printer 24 built inside detects the strip-shaped black mark R3 continuously printed from the terminal portion R2 of the receipt paper R, and the receipt paper. Recognize that R is near-end. Therefore, for example, even if the cover 56 is opened and closed after recognizing that the receipt paper R is near-end and the receipt paper R is displaced in the transport direction, the control unit 300 continues to recognize the near-end of the recording medium once recognized. Therefore, the control unit 100 can continuously notify that the receipt sheet R is near-end.

Further, in the embodiment, the near-end sensor 40 detects the near-end of the receipt paper R and the absence of the receipt paper R. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide a dedicated sensor for each.

Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, this embodiment is presented as an example and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. This novel embodiment can be implemented in various other embodiments, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. This embodiment and its modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof.

For example, in the embodiment, the printer 24 uses a printer built in the self-POS terminal 1, but the printer 24 is not limited to this, and may be an external printer electrically connected to the self-POS terminal 1.
Further, in the embodiment, a self-POS terminal is used as the sales data processing device. However, the sales data processing device is not limited to this, and may be a semi-self-type payment device including a registration device in which a sales clerk performs a sales registration operation and a payment device in which a payment operation is performed by the customer himself / herself. Further, the sales data processing device may be a POS terminal in which a clerk performs a sales registration operation and a payment operation.
Further, as the receipt paper R of the embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, a paper having one black mark R3 printed on the back surface R1 was used. However, for example, as shown in FIG. 11, the receipt paper R on which two parallel black marks are printed, such as the black mark R31 and the black mark R32, may be used.
Depending on the type of printer 24, the mounting position of the near-end sensor 40 may differ. The receipt paper R shown in FIG. 11 prints black marks corresponding to the positions of the near-end sensors 40 of the two types of printers 24 having different positions of the near-end sensors 40. Therefore, one receipt sheet R can be used for two types of printers 24. The number of black marks R3 is not limited to two, and any number of black marks R3 may be printed.
Further, in the embodiment, the black black mark R3 is printed on the receipt paper R, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a mark that emits infrared rays or ultraviolet rays may be printed. In this case, the mark is detected by an infrared sensor or an ultraviolet sensor.
Further, in the embodiment, the roll-shaped receipt paper is used as the recording medium, but the recording medium is not limited to this, and the recording medium may be fanfold paper, ticket paper, label paper, or the like.
Further, in the embodiment, the product has been described as an example of the sales target, but the sales target is not limited to this, and the sales target may be, for example, a service.

1 Self-POS terminal 24 Printer 51 Transport path 100 Control unit 101 Notification means 300 Control unit 301 Near-end recognition means R Receipt paper R3 Black mark

JP 2013-31949

Printer embodiment, a conveying unit for conveying the elongated recording medium that mark of the strip from the end portion in the longitudinal direction is formed in the elongated direction, the carry section toward the printed portion of the recording medium Based on one mark detection sensor that detects the presence / absence of the mark on the recording medium and the presence / absence of the recording medium on the transport path to be conveyed, and the detection of the mark by the mark detection sensor , the recording medium A near-end recognizing means for recognizing that the terminal is approaching, and a recording medium presence / absence recognizing means for recognizing the presence / absence of the recording medium based on the detection of the presence / absence of the recording medium by the mark detection sensor .

Claims (5)

A transport unit that transports a long recording medium having a strip-shaped mark of a predetermined length longer than the deviation that occurs continuously in the transport direction from the end portion,
A mark detection unit that detects the presence or absence of the mark on the recording medium on the transport path in which the transport unit transports the recording medium toward the printing unit.
A near-end recognition means for recognizing that the recording medium is approaching the terminal portion based on the detection by the mark detection unit with the mark.
Printer equipped with. When the near-end recognition means recognizes that the recording medium is approaching the terminal portion, the near-end recognition means recognizes that the mark detection unit is approaching the terminal portion until the mark detection unit next detects that the recording medium is not marked. Maintain the state,
The printer according to claim 1. The mark detection unit further detects the presence or absence of the recording medium.
The printer according to claim 1 or 2. A recording medium supplied to the printer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a strip-shaped mark having a predetermined length longer than a deviation continuously occurring from the terminal portion in the transport direction is formed. Recording medium. A sales registration means that processes sales registration of the sales target based on the sales target information of the sales target to be sold, and
The printer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, which prints the sales target information of the sales target for which the sales registration process has been performed on the recording medium according to claim 4.
A notification means for notifying that the printer has recognized that the recording medium is approaching the terminal portion, and
Sales data processing device equipped with.

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