JP7486850B2 - SALES DATA PROCESSING DEVICE, PROGRAM, AND SALES DATA PROCESSING METHOD - Google Patents

Description

Article 30, paragraph 2 of the Patent Act applies https://www.teraokaseiko.com/jp/news/press-release/2017/20171013101648/ October 17, 2017 Press demonstration and explanation session Teraoka Seiko Co., Ltd. Osaki Building Tokyo Showroom Main Conference Room (2-3-13 Osaki, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo) October 31, 2017

The present invention relates to a sales data processing device, a program, and a sales data processing method.

Convenience stores, supermarkets, and other places generally have multiple POS registers. POS registers that can operate in multiple operating modes have also been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2017-102856 A

However, even though multiple POS registers are installed, there is a problem that the number of store staff is insufficient, limiting the number of customers that can be processed, making it difficult to process transactions efficiently.

The present invention was made in consideration of these circumstances, and its purpose is to provide technology that allows for efficient processing.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a sales data processing device according to one aspect of the present invention is a sales data processing device capable of operating in multiple operating modes, and includes an instruction receiving means for receiving an operating mode switching instruction for switching the operating mode of the device itself, and a control means for controlling the device itself, and the control means controls the execution of an operating mode switching process for switching the operating mode of the device itself if the state of the device itself is in an initial state when the operating mode switching instruction is received, and executes another process different from the operating mode switching process instead of or in addition to the operating mode switching process if the state of the device itself is not in an initial state when the operating mode switching instruction is received.

FIG. 1 is a network configuration diagram of a POS system. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of installation of a POS terminal. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of a POS terminal. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a POS terminal. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an outline of operation modes of the POS terminal. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an outline of operation modes of the POS terminal. 13 is a display example of a POS terminal in a full self-service mode. 13 is a display example of a POS terminal in a full self-service mode. 13 is a display example on a POS terminal. 13 is a display example on a POS terminal. 13 is a display example on a POS terminal. 13 is a display example on a POS terminal. 13 is a display example on a POS terminal. 13 is a display example on a POS terminal. 13 is a display example on a POS terminal. 13 is a display example on a POS terminal. 13 is a display example on a POS terminal. 13 is a display example on a POS terminal. 11A to 11C are explanatory diagrams illustrating various operations after a mode switching operation. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining processes that can be executed after a mode switching operation. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of a POS terminal. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of a POS terminal. 11A to 11C are explanatory diagrams illustrating various operations after a mode switching operation. 11A to 11C are explanatory diagrams illustrating various operations after a mode switching operation. 11A to 11C are explanatory diagrams illustrating various operations after a mode switching operation. 1 is an example of a layout of POS terminals. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining mode switching. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining mode switching. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a bag receiver.

Figure 1 is a network configuration diagram of a POS (Point Of Sales) system according to one embodiment of the present invention. The POS system 1 shown in Figure 1 includes three POS terminals 20-1, 20-2, and 20-3, and a store controller (store computer, management device) 10, all of which are connected to each other via a LAN 11 so as to be able to communicate with each other. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the POS terminals 20-1, 20-2, and 20-3, they will be collectively referred to as the POS terminal 20. The POS system 1 may further include a monitoring terminal (not shown) that displays the status of the POS terminal 20 (operation mode, processing status, etc.) and controls the POS terminal 20.

The POS system 1 can be installed in various stores (convenience stores, supermarkets, etc.).

Figure 2 shows an example of the installation of the POS terminal 20. Figure 2(A) is an oblique view of the POS terminal 20, etc., as seen from the customer side. Figure 2(B) is an oblique view of the POS terminal 20, etc., as seen from the store clerk side. As shown in Figure 2(A), a counter is placed to the right of the POS terminal 20 as seen from the customer side.

Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the POS terminal 20. Figure 3(A) is an oblique view of the POS terminal 20 as seen from the customer side. Figure 3(B) is an oblique view of the POS terminal 20 as seen from the store clerk side. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the POS terminal 20. In Figures 3 and 4, the same parts are given the same reference numerals.

Below, an example of the configuration of the POS terminal 20 shown in FIG. 4 will be described with reference to FIG. 3. The POS terminal 20 comprises a CPU 201, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, a hard disk 204, a customer display unit 205, a customer scanner unit 206, a card payment unit 208, a change dispenser 209, a store clerk display unit 210, a key operation unit 211, a store clerk scanner unit 212, a printing unit 213, an audio output unit 214, and a communication unit 215. These can communicate with each other via a bus. The reference characters 211a, 211b, and 211c will be described later.

The CPU 201 is a central processing unit that controls the operation of the POS terminal 20 by reading and executing programs stored in the ROM 202 .
The ROM 202 is a read-only memory, and stores various types of information used by the CPU 201, including programs.

RAM 203 is a read/write memory that stores various information. For example, RAM 203 stores information acquired from the outside (e.g., product master data acquired from store controller 10) and information generated during processing (e.g., registration information (registration data) generated during a registration process that registers products, settlement information generated during a settlement process that settles (pays) purchased products, etc.).

The hard disk 204 stores various information. For example, the hard disk 204 may store programs executed by the CPU 201 instead of the ROM 202. Also, instead of the RAM 203, the hard disk 204 may store information acquired from the outside and information generated during processing.

The customer-side display unit 205 is a touch display for customers, which displays various information to customers and accepts various inputs from customers.
The customer-side scanner unit 206 is a scanner unit for customers, and optically reads various information. For example, the customer-side scanner unit 206 optically reads barcodes (product codes, etc.) attached to products and codes (barcodes, two-dimensional codes, etc.) printed on bills (registered trademarks). In addition to the above, the customer-side scanner unit 206 may also read codes (barcodes, two-dimensional codes, etc.) printed on gift certificates (gift certificates, coupons, and complimentary coupons) and various cards (for example, membership cards, point cards, etc.).

The customer-side scanner unit 206 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 205, the customer may operate (press) the preset key to register the item.

The card payment unit 208 is a payment mechanism using various cards (credit cards, prepaid cards such as transportation cards, point cards, etc.). The card payment unit 208 is equipped with a card recognition unit (reading unit), a display unit, and an operation unit. The card recognition unit magnetically or electrically reads information from various cards. The read information is used to settle (settle) the purchased items. The card recognition unit may recognize various cards not only when the recognized information is used to settle (settle) the purchased items (i.e., in the case of credit card payment, prepaid card payment, using (consuming) points on a point card, etc.), but also when the recognized information is not used to settle (settle) the purchased items (for example, when a bonus is given by presenting a credit card, when points are given to a point card, etc.). The card payment unit 208 of this embodiment is equipped with a card recognition unit (reading unit), a display unit, and an operation unit, but the card payment unit 208 may be equipped with at least a card recognition unit. In addition, the card recognition unit of this embodiment is compatible with contact cards (IC cards, magnetic cards), but it may also be compatible with non-contact cards (IC cards) instead of or in addition to contact cards.

The change machine 209 (cash settlement section) 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 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. The change machine 209 faces the customer and is operated by the customer. 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 store clerk's display unit 210 is a touch display for the store clerk, which displays various information to the store clerk and receives various inputs from the store clerk.
The key operation unit 211 is made up of various keys (hardware keys, buttons) and receives various inputs from the store clerk.
The store clerk scanner unit 212 is a scanner unit for store clerks, and optically reads various information. For example, the store clerk scanner unit 212 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 212 may also read codes printed on bills, gift certificates, and various cards.

The clerk-side scanner unit 212 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 211, 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 210, the clerk may operate that preset key to register the product.

The printing unit 213 prints and issues various media (receipts, bills, etc.). The printing unit 213 can freely rotate to change its orientation (direction of the media issuing port) from the clerk side to the customer side and from the customer side to the clerk side. The orientation of the printing unit 213 may be changed manually, or it may be changed automatically (mechanically controlled, etc.) based on, for example, a change in operating mode (details described later). The correctness of the orientation of the printing unit 213 may be detected by a sensor or the like. Switching between operating modes is also referred to as a transition in operating mode.

The audio output unit 214 outputs audio. For example, the audio output unit 214 outputs audio guidance and the like.
The communication unit 215 transmits and receives information to and from other terminals (other POS terminals 20, store controller 10).

(Overview of each operation mode)
Next, a description will be given of the operation modes of the POS terminal 20. The POS terminal 20 has a plurality of operation modes. Specifically, the POS terminal 20 has at least three types of operation modes (normal mode, full self-service mode, and semi-self-service mode).

The above-mentioned operating modes are operating modes during normal business operations (operating modes related to registration processing and settlement processing), and do not include a calculation mode in which sales and inventory are calculated and inquired, a maintenance mode in which store clerks or maintenance personnel perform setup and maintenance work, a training mode in which new employees are trained, etc.

In addition, in the following description, as a separate aspect from the above-mentioned classification of operating modes (normal mode, full self-service mode, semi-self-service mode), the mode in which the POS terminal 20 executes the registration process may be referred to as the registration mode, and the mode in which the POS terminal 20 executes the settlement process as the accounting mode.

Figures 5 and 6 are diagrams outlining the operating modes of the POS terminal 20. Figure 5 is a diagram outlining the normal mode. Figure 5 (A) is a schematic diagram showing the flow of processes (registration process, settlement process) and the actions of people (store clerks, customers) in the normal mode, and Figure 5 (B) is a flowchart showing the basic flow of operations of the POS terminal 20 in the normal mode. Figure 6 is a diagram outlining the full self-service mode. Figure 6 (A) is a schematic diagram showing the flow of processes (registration process, settlement process) and the actions of people (customers) in the full self-service mode, and Figure 6 (B) is a flowchart showing the basic flow of operations of the POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode.

(Normal mode)
As shown in Fig. 5(A), normal mode is an operating mode in which the clerk executes the registration process and the customer executes the settlement process. That is, as shown in Fig. 5(B), in normal mode, the POS terminal 20 is in registration mode on the clerk side and in accounting mode on the customer side. In other words, when viewed from the entire process from registration to settlement, the POS terminal 20 in normal mode operates in the registration and accounting mode.

In normal mode, the store clerk registers the items purchased by the customer on the store clerk side (store clerk scanner unit 212, store clerk display unit 210, key operation unit 211). In other words, the POS terminal 20 executes the registration process of the purchased items through the operations of the store clerk (scanning with the store clerk scanner unit 212, touching the store clerk display unit 210, operating the key operation unit 211) (upper part of FIG. 5(A)).

When the store clerk has completed the registration process, the customer checks the total amount of the purchased items on the store clerk display unit 210 and settles the bill by inserting currency (cash) into the change machine 209 or by operating the card payment unit 208 (lower part of FIG. 5(A)). In other words, the POS terminal 20 executes the settlement process based on the customer's operation (inserting cash into the change machine 209, operating the card payment unit 208) (lower part of FIG. 5(A)).

That is, in normal mode, as shown in FIG. 5(B), first the clerk scans the product (step S10: YES) and registers the product (step S11). After the clerk presses a subtotal key (e.g., a subtotal key displayed on the clerk display unit 210 or a subtotal key located on the key operation unit 211) (step S30: YES), the customer uses, for example, the change dispenser 209 to settle the amount (step S50), and the process is completed. The subtotal key in step S30 is an operation key for completing the registration process, and may also be called a subtotal button, registration completion key, registration completion button, checkout key, checkout button, etc.

The customer may wait until the registration process is completed by the store clerk (until the total amount is finalized), but may also insert cash into the change dispenser 209 before the registration process is completed. In other words, the POS terminal 20 can accept deposits during the registration process (top row of FIG. 5(A)).

The customer may also select a payment method (also called a payment type, settlement method, or payment type) before completing the registration process. In other words, the POS terminal 20 can accept the selection of a payment method during the registration process (details will be described later).

The store clerk may wait until the customer has completed the payment (until the customer has received their change and receipt), but may also register the items purchased by the next customer. In other words, the POS terminal 20 can register the items purchased by the next customer during the payment process (lower part of FIG. 5(A)). The store clerk may also be absent while the customer is paying (lower part of FIG. 5(A)). In other words, the store clerk may finish serving the customer while the customer is paying.

In addition, when there is change, the POS terminal 20 may control the dispenser 209 to dispense the change and change tag to prevent the customer from forgetting to take the change, and after recognizing with a sensor or the like that the customer has removed the change and change tag, control the printing unit 213 to print a receipt. The same applies to other operating modes.

In addition, in the normal mode, in addition to the above-mentioned process of performing the registration process on the store clerk side and performing the settlement process on the customer side of the terminal using the registration information generated in the registration process (see FIG. 5), the clerk side can also perform the process of performing the registration process on the store clerk side and sending the registration information generated in the registration process to another terminal (another terminal capable of performing the settlement process, for example, another POS terminal 20) (directly to the other terminal via the LAN 11, or via the store controller 10 or a monitoring terminal (not shown); the same applies below), and the process of converting the registration information generated in the registration process into a code (barcode, two-dimensional code, etc.), printing it on a medium, and issuing it as a bill. In other words, in the normal mode, the POS terminal 20 has the function of registering products on the terminal itself and settling the payment on the terminal itself, as well as the function of registering products on the terminal itself and having the payment settled on the other terminal.

The above-mentioned function of registering products at one's own terminal and having the payment made at another terminal is an inherent function of the semi-self-service mode. The semi-self-service mode is classified into a registration-only mode and a checkout-only mode. The POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode (registration-only mode) has the function of registering products at one's own terminal and having the payment made at another terminal. Specifically, the POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode (registration-only mode) executes the registration process on the store clerk's side and transmits the registration information generated in the registration process to the other terminal (or encodes the registration information generated in the registration process, prints it on a medium, and issues it as a checkout ticket). The POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode (checkout-only mode) has the function of paying for products registered at another terminal. Specifically, the POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) receives registration information sent from the POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode (registration only mode) (or reads the accounting ticket issued by the POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode (registration only mode)) and executes the settlement process.

The POS terminal 20 in normal mode, like the POS terminal 20 in semi-self-service mode (registration-only mode), has the function of registering products at its own terminal and having them paid for at another terminal, but the POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode (like the POS terminal 20 in normal mode) may have the function of paying for products registered at another terminal, like the POS terminal 20 in semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode). In other words, the POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode and the POS terminal 20 in normal mode may receive registration information (or read an accounting ticket) from another terminal (such as the POS terminal 20 in semi-self-service mode (registration-only mode) or the POS terminal 20 in normal mode) and perform the payment process.

(Full selfie mode)
As shown in Fig. 6(A), the full self-service mode is an operating mode in which the customer executes the registration process and the settlement process. That is, as shown in Fig. 6(B), the POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode can be in both the registration mode and the accounting mode on the customer side. In other words, the POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode operates in the registration and accounting mode from the overall process from registration to settlement.

In the full self-service mode, the customer registers the items he or she has purchased on the customer side (customer scanner unit 206, customer display unit 205). In other words, the POS terminal 20 executes the registration process for the purchased items through the customer's operation (scanning with the customer scanner unit 206, touching the customer display unit 205) (top of FIG. 6(A)).

When the registration process is complete, the customer checks the total amount of the purchased items on the customer display unit 205 and settles the bill by inserting cash into the change machine 209 or operating the card payment unit 208 (lower part of FIG. 6(A)). In other words, the POS terminal 20 executes the settlement process based on the customer's operation (inserting cash into the change machine 209, operating the card payment unit 208) (lower part of FIG. 6(A)).

That is, in the full self-service mode, as shown in FIG. 6(B), the customer scans the product (step S20: YES) and registers the product (step S21). After pressing a registration completion key (e.g., a registration completion key displayed on the customer display unit 205) (step S40: YES), the customer uses, for example, the change dispenser 209 to settle the bill (step S50), completing the process. The registration completion key in step S40 is an operation key for completing the registration process, and may also be called a registration completion button, subtotal key, subtotal button, bill key, bill button, etc.

As mentioned above, in full self-service mode, both the registration process and the settlement process are performed by the customer, but this does not mean that the store clerk cannot do anything. In other words, even when the POS terminal 20 is operating in full self-service mode, it is possible, for example, to scan the store clerk code with the store clerk scanner unit 212, display various information, and register products. The state (operation mode) in which registration processes are performed on both the store clerk and customer sides is sometimes called double scan mode.

(Operation mode notification)
Each POS terminal 20 may notify the current operation mode of the terminal. For example, each POS terminal 20 may display the current operation mode of the terminal on the clerk display unit 210. Specifically, each POS terminal 20 may display a screen having an operation mode display field of the terminal on the clerk display unit 210, and display the current operation mode of the terminal in the operation mode display field on the screen. Also, each POS terminal 20 may display a screen on which images corresponding to each operation mode (e.g., button-like images) are arranged on the clerk display unit 210, and display the images corresponding to the current operation mode of the terminal on the screen in a different display mode (e.g., a display mode that is more prominent than the display mode of other images) from images that do not correspond to the current operation mode. For example, a normal mode image and a full self-service mode image may be always displayed, and when the current operation mode of the terminal is the normal mode, the normal mode image may be displayed in a more prominent display mode than the full self-service mode image, and when the current operation mode of the terminal is the full self-service mode, the full self-service mode image may be displayed in a more prominent display mode than the normal mode image. Each POS terminal 20 may also display its own current operating mode on the customer side display unit 205 in a similar manner.

Also, each POS terminal 20 may report the current operating mode of the other terminal instead of or in addition to its own current operating mode. That is, each POS terminal 20 may report the current operating mode of the other terminal by recognizing the current operating mode of the other terminal. One example of a method for each POS terminal 20 to recognize the current operating mode of the other terminal is a method in which each POS terminal 20 notifies the other terminal of the new operating mode (latest operating mode) after switching the operating mode (by directly notifying the other terminal via the LAN 11, or by notifying the other terminal via the store controller 10 or a monitoring terminal (not shown)). Also, each POS terminal 20 may report the current processing status of the other terminal as well as the current operating mode of the other terminal.

Each POS terminal 20 may also report information according to its own current operating mode (operating mode, processing status, etc.). For example, when the current operating mode of the POS terminal 20 is a full self mode, for example when it is in standby, the POS terminal 20 may display a predetermined message (see, for example, FIG. 7(A)) on the customer side display unit 205. The POS terminal 20 may also report information according to the current operating mode of other terminals instead of or in addition to information according to its own current operating mode.

(Switching (transitioning) operation modes)
Next, a description will be given of the transition of the operation mode of the POS terminal 20. The operation mode of the POS terminal 20 is switched (the operation mode is transitioned) in accordance with an explicit mode switching operation (also referred to as a mode transition operation) by a store clerk. Specifically, the operation mode is switched in accordance with the operation of the mode switching button 211a (see FIG. 3B) located at the top and rightmost end of the key operation unit 211.

In addition, since the mode switching button 211a is located at a corner of the key operation unit 211, it is possible to reduce operational errors when switching between operation modes and to easily switch between operation modes. In other words, when the mode switching button 211a is located at a corner of the key operation unit 211, compared to when the mode switching button 211a is located near the center of the key operation unit 211, for example, there are fewer other buttons adjacent to the mode switching button 211a that is the object of operation. This makes it less likely that an operational error will occur, such as hastily operating another button, and also makes it possible to instantly identify the position of the mode switching button 211a that is the object of operation, allowing for stress-free mode switching operations.

Furthermore, because the mode switching button 211a is located in the upper right corner (top row and rightmost) of the key operation unit 211, mode switching can be performed not only when the store clerk is on the store clerk side but also when the store clerk is on the customer side. In other words, a store clerk on the customer side cannot normally see the buttons on the key operation unit 211, but the mode switching button 211a located on the upper right corner of the key operation unit 211 can be easily recognized as the mode switching button 211a to be operated by reaching out from the customer side and feeling around (by touch), so the store clerk on the customer side can perform mode switching without moving to the store clerk side.

In this embodiment, the mode switching button 211a is located in the upper right corner of the key operation unit 211, but the mode switching button 211a may be located in a position other than the upper right corner of the key operation unit 211 as long as the position is recognizable by touch alone (a position that is relatively easy to recognize). Also, instead of or in addition to locating the mode switching button 211a in a position that can be recognized by touch alone (for example, the upper right corner), the mode switching button 211a may be formed so that it can be distinguished from other buttons even from the customer's side. For example, the size of the mode switching button 211a may be different from the size of the other buttons, the shape of the mode switching button 211a may be different from the shape of the other buttons, or the height of the mode switching button 211a may be different from the height of the other buttons (for example, the mode switching button 211a may protrude further than the other buttons), or the feel of all or part of the surface of the mode switching button 211a (the surface that the hand touches) may be different from the feel of the other buttons (for example, only the surface of the mode switching button 211a may be made rough or bumpy to the touch, or only the surface of the mode switching button 211a may be provided with protrusions or depressions).

In this embodiment, taking into consideration the various advantages described above, the mode switching button 211a is provided on the key operation unit 211. However, instead of or in addition to providing the mode switching button 211a on the key operation unit 211, a mode switching button (not shown) may be provided on the screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 210.

The POS terminal 20 can also switch operating modes without an explicit mode switching operation. For example, the POS terminal 20 switches operating modes based on time-related conditions such as elapsed time (e.g., time since the last operation) or a specified time (schedule), and conditions related to sending and receiving information such as mode switching instructions (mode switching commands) from other terminals (POS terminal 20, monitoring terminal, mobile terminal, etc.).

When the POS terminal 20 switches its own operating mode, whether or not the mode switching is performed by an explicit mode switching operation performed by a store clerk, the POS terminal 20 may notify other terminals of the operating mode after the switch (the most recent operating mode).

In the following explanation, it is assumed that POS terminal 20-1 and POS terminal 20-2 are in normal mode. Furthermore, it is assumed that POS terminal 20-3 is in full self-service mode. Furthermore, in the following explanation, it is assumed that the POS terminal 20 switches its own operating mode each time the mode switching button 211a is operated (pressed). However, in the following explanation, for the sake of convenience, a description of the semi-self-service mode is omitted, so it is assumed that basically, each time the mode switching button 211a is operated, the operating mode switches from normal mode to full self-service mode, and from full self-service mode to normal mode.

(Display example of POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode)
7 and 8 are examples of displays on the POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode. Specifically, Fig. 7(A), Fig. 7(B), and Fig. 8(A) to Fig. 8(F) are all examples of displays on the customer-side display unit 205 of the POS terminal 20-3 in the full self-service mode.

Figure 7 (A) shows the display contents of the registration start screen before the start of the registration process. In Figure 7 (A), the registration start button BT30 on the right of the screen is a button for instructing the start of product registration. The customer operates the registration start button BT30 when starting product registration. Buttons BT35 to BT37 on the bottom left of the screen are buttons for switching the display language between English, Chinese, and Korean, respectively.

Figure 7 (B) shows the display contents of the registration screen when the second product (daifuku mochi) has been registered. Note that when the registration start button BT30 is operated on the registration start screen shown in Figure 7 (A), the POS terminal 20-3 displays a registration screen in which no products have yet been registered, but for ease of explanation, Figure 7 (B) shows the registration screen after the products (tea, daifuku mochi) have already been registered.

In FIG. 7 (B), image GA01 at the bottom left of the screen shows the state of the other terminal (POS terminal 20-1) (specifically, that it is in normal mode). Image GA02 at the bottom left of the screen shows the state of the other terminal (POS terminal 20-2) (specifically, that it is in normal mode). The checkout button BT32 at the bottom right of the screen is a button for instructing the end of product registration. The customer operates the checkout button BT32 after product registration is complete. The store clerk call button BT33 is a button for calling a store clerk. The customer operates the store clerk call button BT33 when calling a store clerk (for example, when the customer needs the support of a store clerk).

As mentioned above, buttons BT35 to BT37 are buttons for switching the display language between English, Chinese, and Korean, respectively. Also, the "Vegetables" button BT38 is a button for displaying each preset key for vegetables (see FIG. 9).

Figure 8 (A) shows the display contents of the settlement screen (payment method selection screen) that is displayed when the settlement process is started. For example, when the checkout button BT32 is operated on the registration screen (see Figure 7 (B)), the POS terminal 20-3 displays the payment method selection screen as shown in Figure 8 (A).

Figure 8 (B) shows the display contents of the settlement screen (deposit screen) displayed when starting a cash payment. For example, when cash is operated on the payment method selection screen (see Figure 8 (A)), the POS terminal 20-3 displays the deposit screen as shown in Figure 8 (B).

Figure 8 (C) shows the display contents of the settlement screen (deposit screen) displayed when deciding the deposit amount. For example, when cash (deposit) equal to or greater than the payment amount (purchase amount) is inserted, the POS terminal 20-3 displays the deposit screen as shown in Figure 8 (C).

Figure 8 (D) shows the display contents of the settlement screen (change screen) displayed when dispensing change. For example, when the End (receipt) button BT40 is operated on the deposit screen (Figure 8 (C)), the POS terminal 20-3 displays the change screen as shown in Figure 8 (D).

Figure 8 (E) shows the display contents of the settlement screen (receipt screen) displayed when change has been removed. For example, when change has been removed from the outlet of the change dispenser 209, the POS terminal 20-3 displays a receipt screen such as that shown in Figure 8 (E). The POS terminal 20 may be provided with a sensor such as a photosensor near the outlet, and determine that change has been removed when the sensor recognizes an object (presumably a customer's hand). Figure 8 (F) shows the pause screen displayed when in pause mode (pause state).

After displaying the receipt screen (Fig. 8(E)), the POS terminal 20-3 displays the registration start screen (Fig. 7(A)). For example, the POS terminal 20-3 displays the registration start screen after the receipt is removed from the issuing port of the printing unit 213. The POS terminal 20 may be equipped with a sensor that can recognize that the receipt has been removed from the issuing port. Also, if no change is to be made, the screen may transition from the deposit screen (Fig. 8(C)) to the receipt screen (Fig. 8(E)) without displaying the change screen (Fig. 8(D)).

(Display example of POS terminal 20 in normal mode)
Figures 9 to 14 are display examples on the POS terminal 20 in normal mode. Specifically, Figures 9(A), 10(A), 11(A), 12(A), 13(A), and 14(A) are all display examples on the clerk display unit 210 of the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode. Figures 9(B), 10(B), 11(B), 12(B), 13(B), and 14(B) are all display examples on the customer display unit 205 of the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode.

Figure 9 (A) shows the display contents on the registration screen in the initial state on the store clerk display unit 210. In the following explanation, unless otherwise specified, the initial state refers to a state in which no processing is progressing, for example, a state in which no products have yet been registered, and no payment (settlement) has yet been made (no payment method has been selected, no cash has been inserted, no gift certificates have been registered, etc.), and no customer has yet been made (no membership card, etc. has been read, etc.).

In FIG. 9(A), the tab area T1 in the upper right corner of the screen is a tab corresponding to each display content (display screen). The POS terminal 20-1 can suspend the registration process for the current customer (the reason for suspension may be to return to the store to add an item to the purchase, for example) and perform the registration process for the next customer. In other words, based on the operation of the store clerk, the POS terminal 20-1 displays a new registration screen for the next customer while retaining (storing) the display content (registration content) of the registration screen for the current customer. In the example shown in FIG. 9(A), there is one tab (tab area T1), but the POS terminal 20-1 displays a number of tabs according to the number of registration screens (number of customers) in progress (tab areas T1, T2, T3, ...), and switches the registration screen to be enabled (active) according to the operation (pressing) of the tab.

In the tab area T1, information that distinguishes the tab from other tabs (the number "1" in the example of FIG. 9(A)) is displayed. In addition, the tab area T1 is provided with a display field HR01 that displays the amount of money deposited by the customer. In addition to the above, various other information (described below) is also displayed in the tab area T1, although this is not shown in the example shown in FIG. 9(A).

Image GA02 at the bottom left of the screen shows the state of the other terminal (POS terminal 20-2) (specifically, that it is in normal mode). Image GA03 at the bottom left of the screen shows the state of the other terminal (POS terminal 20-3) (specifically, that it is in full self-service mode).

Figure 9 (B) shows the display contents on the customer display unit 205 in the initial state. In other words, when the POS terminal 20-1 is displaying the registration screen on the store clerk display unit 210 as shown in Figure 9 (A), it displays the small screen (small window) SG01 on the customer display unit 205 superimposed on the settlement screen (deposit screen) as shown in Figure 9 (B).

The small screen SG01 allows the customer to select a payment method. On the small screen SG01, the customer selects either cash, credit, or electronic money as the payment method. If the customer desires cash as the payment method, he or she may insert cash (a deposit) before selecting cash as the payment method on the small screen SG01. The POS terminal 20-1 will clear the small screen SG01 if any payment method is selected on the small screen SG01. Also, if cash is inserted before a payment method is selected on the small screen SG01, the POS terminal 20-1 will process this as cash being selected as the payment method and clear the small screen SG01.

When the POS terminal 20-1 is displaying the registration screen shown in FIG. 9(A) on the clerk display unit 210 and a can of beer is registered by the clerk, the POS terminal 20-1 displays a registration screen as shown in FIG. 10(A) on the clerk display unit 210.

In FIG. 10(A), the subtotal button BT10 at the bottom right of the screen is a button for instructing the user to finish registering the product. The store clerk operates (touches) the subtotal button BT10 after completing the product registration.

The 20-2 register button BT12 is a button for specifying the 20-2 register (POS terminal 20-2). When the store clerk wants to specify the POS terminal 20-2 as the terminal to which registration information is to be sent, he or she operates the 20-2 register button BT12. The "(Normal)" displayed on the 20-2 register button BT12 indicates that the operating mode of the POS terminal 20-2 corresponding to the 20-2 register button BT12 is normal mode.

The 20-3 register button BT13 is a button for specifying the 20-3 register (POS terminal 20-3). When the store clerk wants to specify the POS terminal 20-3 as the terminal to which registration information is to be sent, he or she operates the 20-3 register button BT13. The "(Full self-service)" displayed on the 20-3 register button BT13 indicates that the operating mode of the POS terminal 20-3 corresponding to the 20-3 register button BT13 is the full self-service mode.

The receipt button BT15 is a button for issuing a receipt in the printing unit 213. The store clerk operates the receipt button BT15 when executing a process on the POS terminal 20 that read the receipt (the POS terminal 20 on which the customer has read the receipt).

When comparing a POS terminal 20 in normal mode with a POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode as a destination of registration information, a POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode is more preferable than a POS terminal 20 in normal mode as a destination of registration information. A POS terminal 20 in normal mode is basically operated by a store clerk (see FIG. 5(A)), so there is a continuous process (e.g., registration process, customer service, etc.) and it is highly likely that the registration information cannot be processed immediately even if it is sent, and even if it is free (even if there is no store clerk or customer), it is basically preferable to keep it free so that customers who request support from a store clerk can be immediately served, whereas a POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode can send and process registration information immediately if there is no customer, and even if there is a customer, the above-mentioned problems are unlikely to occur because the process can be simply performed in order.

In view of the above, the clerk is notified as to whether or not the POS terminal 20 to which the registration information is to be sent is preferable, or which of the multiple destinations to which the registration information is to be sent is more preferable. As an example, in FIG. 10(A), the outline of the 20-3 register button BT13 corresponding to the POS terminal 20-3 in the full self-service mode, which is a relatively preferable destination to which the registration information is to be sent, is shown in solid lines, and the outline of the 20-2 register button BT12 corresponding to the POS terminal 20-2 in the normal mode, which is a relatively unpreferable destination to which the registration information is to be sent, is shown in dashed lines. Note that the above-mentioned notification by the outline is only an example, and the notification mode is not limited as long as the clerk can recognize whether or not the POS terminal 20 to which the registration information is to be sent is preferable, or which of the multiple destinations to which the registration information is to be sent is more preferable. For example, the background color of the button for the relatively unpreferable one may be grayed out, or a penalty mark or a diagonal line may be added to the entire button. Additionally, the display size, shape, and display position of the button may be varied depending on whether or not the POS terminal 20 is preferable as a destination for sending the registration information, and some information (such as a badge-like image saying "Preferred" or "Recommended") may be added to the button.

When the POS terminal 20-1 displays a registration screen such as that shown in FIG. 10(A) on the store clerk display unit 210, it displays the small screen SG01 on the customer display unit 205, superimposed on the settlement screen (deposit screen) as shown in FIG. 10(B). Note that in the settlement screen (deposit screen) of FIG. 9(B), no products were registered so the total amount was 0 yen, but in the settlement screen (deposit screen) of FIG. 10(B), a can of beer costing 215 yen has been registered so the total amount is 215.

When a customer inserts 500 yen while the registration screen in FIG. 10(A) is displayed on the store clerk display unit 210, the POS terminal 20-1 displays a registration screen as shown in FIG. 11(A) on the store clerk display unit 210.

As the customer has inserted 500 yen, the number 500 is displayed in the display field HR01 in the upper right corner of the screen in FIG. 11(A). In addition, as the customer has inserted 500 yen, the payment will be settled at the customer's own terminal (POS terminal 20-1), and so the buttons (20-2 register button BT12, 20-3 register button BT13, and bill button BT15) used to settle at other terminals (POS terminal 20-2, POS terminal 20-3) are not displayed (are erased).

When the POS terminal 20-1 displays a registration screen such as that shown in FIG. 11(A) on the store clerk display unit 210, it displays a settlement screen (deposit screen) such as that shown in FIG. 11(B) on the customer display unit 205. Note that the small screen SG01 is cleared because the customer has inserted 500 yen.

When the POS terminal 20-1 is displaying the registration screen in FIG. 11(A) on the clerk display unit 210 and the clerk registers the second product (asparagus) and the third product (seaweed bento), and the customer then inserts an additional 500 yen, the POS terminal 20-1 displays a registration screen as shown in FIG. 12(A) on the clerk display unit 210. As the customer has inserted an additional 500 yen, the display field HR01 in the upper right corner of the screen in FIG. 12(A) shows 1000.

When the POS terminal 20-1 displays a registration screen such as that shown in FIG. 12(A) on the store clerk display unit 210, it displays a settlement screen (deposit screen) such as that shown in FIG. 12(B) on the customer display unit 205.

When the POS terminal 20-1 is displaying the registration screen of FIG. 12(A) on the clerk display unit 210 and the clerk operates the subtotal button BT10, the clerk display unit 210 displays a small screen (small window) SG02 superimposed on the registration screen as shown in FIG. 13(A), and displays a settlement screen (deposit screen) as shown in FIG. 13(B) on the customer display unit 205. The small screen SG02 notifies the clerk of settlement-related information (total amount, amount deposited in the device (deposit amount)).

When the customer operates the Finish (receipt) button BT40 while the settlement screen (deposit screen) of FIG. 13 (B) is displayed on the customer display unit 205, the POS terminal 20-1 displays the message screen MG1 superimposed on the registration screen as shown in FIG. 14 (A) on the store clerk display unit 210, and displays the settlement screen (change screen) as shown in FIG. 14 (B) on the customer display unit 205.

The message screen MG1 notifies the store clerk about the change. The POS terminal 20-1 erases the message screen MG1 that is displayed superimposed on the registration screen without any operation by the store clerk (for example, automatically after a predetermined time has passed). The POS terminal 20-1 may also erase the message screen MG1 that is displayed superimposed on the registration screen in response to an operation by the store clerk (such as touching the message screen MG1).

Although not shown in Figure 14 and subsequent figures, the POS terminal 20-1 displays a checkout screen similar to that shown in Figure 8 (E) and subsequent figures on the customer display unit 205, and displays a message corresponding to the checkout screen on the store clerk display unit 210.

(Operation after mode switching operation)
Next, the operation after the mode switching operation will be described. The mode switching button 211a (see FIG. 3B) is a hardware key provided on the key operation unit 211, so the store clerk can operate it no matter what situation (state) the POS terminal 20 is in (in extreme terms, the button can be pressed even if the POS terminal 20 is not turned on or is broken). In other words, the POS terminal 20 can switch modes under various circumstances. In other words, the situation of the POS terminal 20 when the mode switching operation is performed is various.

For the above reasons, the POS terminal 20 operates according to the situation at the time of the mode switching operation (various situations in which the terminal is operating normally, not the extreme cases described above). In other words, the POS terminal 20 generally switches the operation mode when the mode switching operation is performed (as explained above, the operation mode is basically switched from the normal mode to the full self-service mode and vice versa each time the mode switching button 211a is operated), but more specifically, the POS terminal 20 differs in its behavior, including whether or not to switch the operation mode, depending on the situation (state) in which the mode switching operation is performed. In other words, the POS terminal 20 controls the operation after the mode switching operation according to the situation (state) at the time of the mode switching operation.
A specific example will be given below for explanation.

(initial state)
When the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20-1 is in the initial state in normal mode, the POS terminal 20-1 executes a mode switching process that switches the operation mode from the normal mode to the full self-service mode. The mode switching process is also called a mode transition process. Therefore, to put it another way using the mode transition process, when the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20-1 is in the initial state in normal mode, the POS terminal 20-1 executes a mode transition process that transitions the operation mode from the normal mode to the full self-service mode.

As mentioned above, the initial state is a state in which no products have been registered, and no payment (settlement) has been made (no payment method has been selected, no cash has been inserted, no gift certificates have been registered, etc.), and no customer information has been made (no membership card has been read, etc.). In other words, the initial state is a state in which no products have been registered, no cash has been inserted, no payment type has been selected, no gift certificates have been registered, and no customer information has been obtained.

For example, when the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode is displaying the initial registration screen on the store clerk display unit 210 as shown in FIG. 9(A), the POS terminal 20-1 switches from normal mode to full self-service mode (executes the mode switching process) and displays the registration start screen on the customer display unit 205 as shown in FIG. 7(A).

(Cash only)
When the mode switch button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20 is in a state where only cash has been inserted (no product registered, cash inserted, no payment type selected, no gift certificates registered, no customer information acquired), the terminal ejects the inserted cash (executes a deposit information cancellation process) and returns to its initial state.

Figure 15 (A) is an example of a display on the POS terminal 20 in normal mode. Specifically, Figure 15 (A) shows the registration screen on the store clerk display unit 210 in a state where only cash has been inserted (no product registered, cash inserted (15 yen has been inserted in Figure 15 (A)), payment type not selected, gift certificate not registered, customer information not acquired).

Figure 15 (B) is an example of a display on the POS terminal 20 in normal mode. Specifically, Figure 15 (B) shows the message screen MG1 (see Figure 14 (B)) superimposed on the registration screen (see Figure 9 (A)) on the store clerk display unit 210 in the initial state.

For example, when the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode is displaying a registration screen for when only cash has been inserted on the clerk display unit 210 as shown in FIG. 15(A), the POS terminal 20-1 dispenses the inserted cash (and executes the deposit information cancellation process) and displays the initial registration screen with the message screen MG1 superimposed on it on the clerk display unit 210 as shown in FIG. 15(B). Note that because the cash has been dispensed, the display field HR01 in the tab area T1 in FIG. 15(B) displays 0.

(Payment type selection only)
When the mode switch button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20 is in a state where only a payment type has been selected (no product registered, no cash inserted, payment type selected, no gift certificates registered, and no customer information obtained), the terminal cancels the selected payment type (executes a payment type information cancellation process) and returns to its initial state.

Figure 16 (A) is an example of the display on the POS terminal 20 in normal mode. Specifically, Figure 16 (A) shows the registration screen on the store clerk display unit 210 in a state where only a payment type has been selected (no product registered, no cash inserted, payment type selected ("credit" has been selected in Figure 16 (A)), no gift certificates registered, and no customer information acquired). Icon I1 in tab area T1 indicates that the payment type "credit" has been selected.

Figure 16 (B) is an example of a display on the POS terminal 20 in normal mode. Specifically, Figure 16 (B) shows the message screen MG2 superimposed on the registration screen (see Figure 9 (A)) on the store clerk display unit 210 in the initial state.

The message screen MG2 notifies the store clerk about the payment type (specifically, that the selection of the payment type has been canceled). The POS terminal 20 erases the message screen MG2 that is displayed superimposed on the registration screen without any operation by the store clerk (for example, automatically after a predetermined time has passed). The POS terminal 20 may also erase the message screen MG2 that is displayed superimposed on the registration screen in response to an operation by the store clerk (such as touching the message screen MG2).

For example, when the mode switch button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode is displaying a registration screen for selecting only the payment type on the store clerk display unit 210 as shown in FIG. 16(A), the selected payment type is cancelled (the payment type information cancellation process is executed) and the initial registration screen with the message screen MG2 superimposed is displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 as shown in FIG. 16(B). Note that because the payment type has been cancelled, the icon I1 in the tab area T1 is erased in FIG. 16(B).

(Voucher registration only)
When the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20 is in a state where only gift certificates are registered (no product registered, no cash inserted, no payment type selected, gift certificates registered, no customer information acquired), the terminal cancels the registered gift certificates (executes a gift certificate information cancellation process) and returns to its initial state.

For example, in normal mode, the POS terminal 20-1 (not shown) displays a registration screen for registering gift certificates only on the store clerk display unit 210. When the mode switch button 211a is operated, the registered gift certificates are cancelled (a gift certificate information cancellation process is executed), and (also not shown) the store clerk display unit 210 displays an initial registration screen with a superimposed message screen informing the store clerk about the gift certificates (specifically, that the registration of the gift certificates has been cancelled).

(Product registration only)
When the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20 is in a product registration only state (product registered, no cash inserted, no payment type selected, no gift certificates registered, no customer information acquired), the product information is cancelled (product information cancellation process is executed) and the terminal returns to its initial state.

For example, as shown in FIG. 10(A), when the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode is displaying a registration screen for product registration only on the store clerk display unit 210, it cancels the registered product (executes the product information cancellation process) and, although not shown in the figure, displays on the store clerk display unit 210 the initial registration screen with a superimposed message screen informing the store clerk about the product (specifically, that the product registration has been cancelled).

(Customer information acquisition only)
When the POS terminal 20 is in a state where customer information has only been acquired (no product registered, no cash inserted, no payment type selected, no gift certificates registered, and customer information acquired), if the mode switching button 211a is operated, the terminal will take over the acquired customer information (execute customer information transfer process) and switch from normal mode to full self-service mode (execute mode switching process).

Figure 17 (A) is an example of the display on the POS terminal 20 in normal mode. Specifically, Figure 17 (A) shows the registration screen on the store clerk display unit 210 in a state where customer information has only been acquired (no product registered, no cash inserted, no payment type selected, no gift certificates registered, and customer information has been acquired (in Figure 17 (A) membership card information has been acquired)). Icon I2 in tab area T1 indicates that membership card information has been acquired.

Figure 17 (B) is an example of a display on the POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode. Specifically, Figure 17 (B) shows "Membership number XXX" being displayed on the registration start screen (see Figure 7 (A)) on the customer display unit 205. "Membership number XXX" is the carried-over customer information (specifically, information on the membership card).

For example, as shown in FIG. 17(A), when the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode is displaying a registration screen for acquiring customer information only on the store clerk display unit 210, the terminal takes over the acquired customer information (membership number, which is information on the member's card) (executes customer information takeover processing), switches from normal mode to full self-service mode (executes mode switching processing), and displays a registration start screen showing "membership number XXX" on the customer display unit 205 as shown in FIG. 17(B). Note that the customer information may also be taken over (displayed) on screens following the registration start screen (the registration screen in FIG. 7(B) and all or part of each of the settlement screens in FIG. 8(A) to FIG. 8(E)).

(Cash-in product registration status)
When the POS terminal 20 is in a cash-in product registration state (product registered, cash inserted, payment type not selected, gift certificates not registered, customer information not acquired) and the mode switching button 211a is operated, the terminal takes over the deposit information and product information (executes the deposit information transfer process and the product information transfer process) and switches from normal mode to full self-service mode (executes the mode switching process).

Figure 18 (A) is an example of the display on the POS terminal 20 in normal mode. Specifically, Figure 18 (A) shows the registration screen on the store clerk display unit 210 in the cash-inserted product registration state (product registered (in Figure 18 (A) a can of beer has been registered), cash has been inserted (in Figure 18 (A) 15 yen has been inserted), payment type not selected, gift certificate not registered, customer information not acquired).

Figure 18 (B) is an example of a display on the POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode. Specifically, Figure 18 (B) shows the customer-side display unit 205 displaying the registration information for a can of beer and "Deposit 15 yen" on the registration screen (see Figure 7 (B)). The registration information for a can of beer is the carried-over product information. "Deposit 15 yen" is the carried-over deposit information.

For example, when the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode is displaying a registration screen showing the cash-inserted product registration status on the clerk display unit 210 as shown in FIG. 18(A), the POS terminal 20-1 takes over the inserted cash deposit information (15 yen) and the registered product information (information on canned beer) (executes the deposit information takeover process and the product information takeover process), switches from normal mode to full self-service mode (executes the mode switching process), and displays a registration screen showing the registered information for canned beer and "deposit of 15 yen" on the customer display unit 205 as shown in FIG. 18(B). Note that the customer information may be carried over (displayed) on the screens following the registration screen. Also, since a "deposit of 15 yen" already exists (since cash is treated as having been selected), the payment method selection screen (see FIG. 8(A)) may not be displayed.

(Cash-inserted gift certificates registration status)
When the POS terminal 20 is in a cash-in/gift-certificate-registration state (product not registered, cash inserted, payment type not selected, gift certificates registered, customer information not acquired) and the mode switching button 211a is operated, the terminal takes over the deposit information and gift certificate information (executes the deposit information transfer process and the gift certificate information transfer process) and switches from normal mode to full self-service mode (executes the mode switching process).

For example, when the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode is displaying a registration screen showing the cash-inserted gift certificate registration status on the clerk display unit 210 (not shown), the terminal takes over the deposited cash information and the registered gift certificate information (executes the deposit information transfer process and the gift certificate information transfer process), switches from normal mode to full self-service mode (executes the mode switching process), and displays a registration screen showing the gift certificate information and the deposit on the customer display unit 205 (not shown).

(Customer detection related)
The POS terminal 20 may be equipped with a sensor (e.g., a camera that takes pictures of the customer side) that can detect whether or not there is a customer around the terminal (particularly on the customer side). Alternatively, the POS terminal 20 may be equipped with a sensor (e.g., a camera that takes pictures of the customer side) on the ceiling, wall, etc. that can detect whether or not there is a customer around the POS terminal 20 (particularly on the customer side). If the POS terminal 20 is configured to be able to detect whether or not there is a customer around the POS terminal 20 (particularly on the customer side), the POS terminal 20 may differ in its behavior, including whether or not to switch operation modes, depending on whether or not there is a customer around the terminal when the mode switching button 211a is operated.

In addition to or instead of the above-mentioned sensor-based method, the POS terminal 20 may determine whether or not there is a customer around the terminal based on whether or not it has been operated for a predetermined time (based on either or both of these) (whether or not a predetermined time has passed since the last time it was operated).

(Customer detection only state)
When the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode is in a customer detection only state (customer detected, product not registered, cash not inserted, payment type not selected, gift certificates not registered, customer information not acquired), it simply switches from normal mode to full self-service mode (executes mode switching processing) and displays a registration start screen on the customer display unit 205. Note that this state is the initial state (product not registered, cash not inserted, payment type not selected, gift certificates not registered, customer information not acquired), but for convenience of explanation it is referred to as the customer detection only state.

(Cash insertion customer detection status)
When the POS terminal 20 is in a cash deposit customer detection state (customer detected, product not registered, cash deposited, payment type not selected, gift certificates not registered, customer information not acquired) and the mode switching button 211a is operated, the POS terminal 20 takes over the deposit information (executes the deposit information transfer process), switches from normal mode to full self-service mode (executes the mode switching process), and displays a registration screen showing the deposit on the customer display unit 205.

(Product registration customer detection status)
When the POS terminal 20 is in a product registration customer detection state (customer detected, product registered, cash not inserted, payment type not selected, gift certificates not registered, customer information not acquired) and the mode switching button 211a is operated, the POS terminal 20 takes over the product information (executes product information transfer processing), switches from normal mode to full self-service mode (executes mode switching processing), and displays a registration screen showing the product information on the customer side display unit 205.

Figure 19 is an explanatory diagram that explains various operations after a mode switching operation from normal mode to full self-service mode. Specifically, Figure 19 summarizes various behaviors (operations) after a mode switching operation from normal mode to full self-service mode in each state, including each of the states exemplified above (initial state, cash insertion only state, payment type selection only state, gift certificate registration only state, product registration only state, customer information acquisition only state, cash insertion product registration state, cash insertion gift certificate registration state, customer detection only state, cash insertion customer detection state, product registration customer detection state).

As shown in the upper right of Figure 19, when the operating mode is switched from normal mode to full self-service mode, customer registration, which was previously prohibited, is permitted, the transmission of registration information to other terminals, which was previously permitted, is prohibited, and the issuance of payment tickets, which was previously permitted, is prohibited.

In the above, the display field HR01 (i.e., the deposit amount), icon I1 (i.e., the payment type "credit" has been selected), and icon I2 (i.e., the membership card information has been obtained) have been described as specific examples of information displayed in tab area T1, but tab area T1 may also display, for example, that a payment type other than "credit" has been selected or that a gift certificate has been registered. Also, instead of or in addition to the above, tab area T1 may display that a customer has been detected, that the total amount deposited (or the total amount deposited plus the total amount of gift certificates) is equal to or greater than the total amount of merchandise, etc.

Figure 20 is an explanatory diagram explaining the processes that may be executed after a mode switching operation. Specifically, Figure 20 (A) summarizes the processes that are executed depending on the state after a mode switching operation. Figure 20 (B) summarizes the messages that are displayed depending on the state after a mode switching operation.

The "payment type information transfer process" shown in FIG. 20 (A) is executed in the "payment related + customer detection related" of FIG. 19. Specifically, it is executed when the "payment type selection customer detection state (not shown)" is in (b) + (e). The "customer information cancellation process" will be described later.

As shown in Figures 20(A) and 20(B), processes and messages correspond to each other. For example, the message on message screen MG1 in Figure 15(B) corresponds to the "deposit cancellation message" shown in Figure 20(B) and is displayed when the "deposit information cancellation process" shown in Figure 20(A) is performed. Also, for example, the message on message screen MG2 in Figure 16(B) corresponds to the "payment type cancellation message" shown in Figure 20(B) and is displayed when the "payment type information cancellation process" shown in Figure 20(A) is performed.

(Example of operation of POS terminal 20)
Fig. 21 (A) is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the POS terminal 20. Specifically, the flowchart in Fig. 21 (A) shows an example of the operation when a mode switching operation is performed on the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode. That is, the flowchart in Fig. 21 (A) starts when the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode detects the operation of the mode switching button 211a.

Step S100: The POS terminal 20-1 checks the registration status of the product. In other words, the POS terminal 20-1 determines whether the product is registered or not. The POS terminal 20-1 stores (temporarily stores) the check result (determination result) in the RAM 203 or the like.

Step S110: The POS terminal 20-1 checks the cash insertion status. That is, the POS terminal 20-1 determines whether or not cash has been inserted. The POS terminal 20-1 stores (temporarily stores) the confirmation result (determination result) in the RAM 203, etc.

Step S120: The POS terminal 20-1 checks the selection of the payment type (payment method). That is, the POS terminal 20-1 determines whether a payment type has been selected. The POS terminal 20-1 stores (temporarily stores) the check result (determination result) in the RAM 203, etc.

Step S130: The POS terminal 20-1 checks the registration status of the gift certificate (coupon, etc.). In other words, the POS terminal 20-1 determines whether the gift certificate has been registered. The POS terminal 20-1 stores (temporarily stores) the check result (determination result) in the RAM 203, etc.

Step S140: The POS terminal 20-1 checks whether customer information (membership number, etc.) has been acquired. In other words, the POS terminal 20-1 determines whether customer information has been acquired. The POS terminal 20-1 stores (temporarily stores) the check result (determination result) in the RAM 203, etc.

Step S150: The POS terminal 20-1 checks the customer detection status. That is, the POS terminal 20-1 determines whether a customer has been detected. The POS terminal 20-1 stores (temporarily stores) the check result (determination result) in the RAM 203, etc.

Step S160: The POS terminal 20-1 executes the operation (see FIG. 19) according to the above-mentioned confirmation result. Then, the flowchart in FIG. 21 (A) ends.

In FIG. 21(A), the order of confirmation is the product registration status, the cash insertion status, the payment type selection status, the gift certificate registration status, the customer information acquisition status, and the customer detection status, but the order of confirmation is not limited to the order shown in FIG. 21(A). In other words, any status can be confirmed first. Also, in FIG. 21(A), the product registration status, the cash insertion status, the payment type selection status, the gift certificate registration status, the customer information acquisition status, and the customer detection status are confirmed, but if the operation to be processed is confirmed, the subsequent confirmation processes may be omitted.

The processes (steps S160A, S160B, S160C, and S160D) shown in the flowcharts of Figs. 21(B), 21(C), 22(A), and 22(B) are examples of the process of step S160 in Fig. 21(A) (operation according to the confirmation result). The process shown in the flowchart in Fig. 22(C) is a modified example of the process (step S160B) shown in the flowchart in Fig. 21(C).

(Initial state)
The flowchart in FIG. 21B shows, as an example of step S160 in FIG. 21A, processing (step S160A) according to the confirmation result (initial state) when the confirmation result is the initial state.

Step S170A: The POS terminal 20-1 executes a mode switching process. In other words, the POS terminal 20-1 switches from normal mode to full self-service mode. Then, the process of the flowchart in FIG. 21(B) (step S160A) ends.

As shown above in FIG. 21(B), if the state at the time of the mode switching operation is the initial state (if the mode switching operation is performed when the state is the initial state), the mode switching process is executed and the mode is switched to full self mode.

(When only cash is inserted)
The flowchart in Figure 21 (C) is an example of step S160 in Figure 21 (A), and shows processing (step S160B) according to the confirmation result (cash deposit only state) when the confirmation result is a cash deposit only state.

Step S161B: The POS terminal 20-1 executes the deposit information cancellation process.
Step S162B: The POS terminal 20-1 executes the deposit cancellation message.

Step S163B: The POS terminal 20-1 determines whether the cash has been removed. That is, the POS terminal 20-1 determines by a sensor or the like whether the cash dispensed in the deposit information cancellation process has been removed. If it has not been removed, the process is repeated, and if it has been removed, the process of the flowchart in FIG. 21(C) (step S160B) ends.

As shown in FIG. 21(C), if the state at the time of the mode switching operation is the cash insertion only state (if the mode switching operation is performed when the state is the cash insertion only state), the mode switching process is not executed and the mode does not switch to the full self-service mode, but the deposit information cancellation process is executed and the initial state is restored. Therefore, if the mode switching operation is performed again, the mode switching process is executed and the mode switches to the full self-service mode (see FIG. 21(B)).

(In the case of a single product registration)
The flowchart in FIG. 22A shows, as an example of step S160 in FIG. 21A, processing (step S160C) according to the confirmation result (product registration only state) when the confirmation result indicates that the product is registered only.

Step S161C: The POS terminal 20-1 executes the product information cancellation process.
Step S162C: The POS terminal 20-1 displays a product cancellation message, and the process of the flowchart in Fig. 22(A) (step S160C) ends.

As shown in FIG. 22(A) above, if the state at the time of the mode switching operation is the product registration only state (if the mode switching operation is performed when the state is the product registration only state), the mode switching process is not executed and the mode does not switch to full self mode, but the product information cancellation process is executed and the mode returns to the initial state. Therefore, if the mode switching operation is performed again, the mode switching process is executed and the mode switches to full self mode (see FIG. 21(B)).

(When cash-in product registration is in progress)
The flowchart in FIG. 22(B) is an example of step S160 in FIG. 21(A), and shows processing (step S160D) according to the confirmation result (cash-deposited product registration status) when the confirmation result is a cash-deposited product registration status.

Step S161D: The POS terminal 20-1 executes a deposit information transfer process and a product information transfer process.
Step S162D: The POS terminal 20-1 displays a payment transfer message and a product transfer message.

Step S170D: The POS terminal 20-1 executes a mode switching process. In other words, the POS terminal 20-1 switches from normal mode to full self-service mode. Then, the process of the flowchart in FIG. 22(B) (step S160D) ends.

As shown in FIG. 22(B) above, if the state at the time of the mode switching operation is the cash-in product registration state (if the mode switching operation is performed when the state is the cash-in product registration state), the mode switching process is executed and the mode is switched to the full self-service mode. In addition, the deposit information transfer process and product information transfer process are executed, so that the deposit information and product information are transferred to the full self-service mode.

It has been explained that after the mode switching operation, the initial state is restored, but in cases where the mode is not switched (for example, in the case of only cash insertion state in FIG. 21(C) or only product registration state in FIG. 22(A)), the mode can be switched by performing the mode switching operation again after returning to the initial state. In other words, it has been explained that after the series of processes starting from step S100 in FIG. 21(A) is completed, the mode switching operation can be performed again as necessary. Alternatively, the mode may be switched during the series of processes described above.

(Select whether or not you want to switch modes from the screen)
The flowchart of Fig. 22C is a modification of the process (step S160B) shown in the flowchart of Fig. 21C. Specifically, it shows the process after step S163B (YES) in the flowchart of Fig. 21C.

Step S164B: Following step S163B (YES), the POS terminal 20-1 displays a small screen (not shown; displays "Yes" and "No" buttons) that allows the store clerk to decide whether or not to switch modes.

Step S165B: The POS terminal 20-1 determines whether the "No" button on the small screen has been operated. In other words, it determines whether the store clerk has expressed an intention not to switch modes. If the "No" button has been operated, the process of the flowchart in FIG. 22(C) ends. If the "No" button has not been operated, the process proceeds to step S166B.

Step S166B: The POS terminal 20-1 determines whether the "Yes" button on the small screen has been operated. In other words, it determines whether the store clerk has expressed an intention to switch modes. If the "Yes" button has been operated, proceed to step S170B. If the "Yes" button has not been operated, return to step S166B.

Step S170B: The POS terminal 20-1 executes a mode switching process. In other words, the POS terminal 20-1 switches from normal mode to full self-service mode. Then, the process of the flowchart in FIG. 22(C) ends.

According to the example shown in FIG. 22(C), the mode is switched as necessary during a series of processes, without the need to perform a new mode switching operation. Note that FIG. 22(C) illustrates an example in which only cash has been inserted, but the same applies when only a product has been registered. Also, when switching from full self-service mode to normal mode (see FIG. 23) or when using other criteria (e.g., whether processing is by the store clerk or the customer) (see FIG. 24 and FIG. 25), the mode may be switched as necessary during a series of processes.

In the example shown in FIG. 22(C), the mode is switched as necessary (according to the selection of the store clerk), but the mode may also be switched automatically (not depending on the selection of the store clerk). In other words, step S170B may always be executed after step S163B (YES). Note that the same applies when only a product is registered, when switching from full self mode to normal mode (see FIG. 23), or when using other criteria (processing by the store clerk or the customer, etc.) (see FIG. 24, FIG. 25).

Figure 23 is an explanatory diagram that explains various operations after a mode switching operation from full self mode to normal mode. While the previous Figure 19 summarizes the behavior (operation) after operating the mode switching button 211a when the current operating mode is normal mode, this Figure 23 summarizes the behavior (operation) after operating the mode switching button 211a when the current operating mode is full self mode.

As shown in the upper right of Figure 23, when the operating mode is switched from full self-service mode to normal mode, customer registration, which was permitted, is prohibited, the transmission of registration information to other terminals, which was prohibited, is permitted, and the issuance of accounting tickets, which was prohibited, is permitted.

As shown in FIG. 23, when the current operating mode is full self-service mode, the behavior when the situation is "payment-related + product-related", "payment-related + customer detection-related", "product-related + customer detection-related", or "multiple payment-related" is different from the behavior when the current operating mode is normal mode as shown in FIG. 19. In other words, when the current operating mode is full self-service mode, the information is carried over and the mode is switched to full self-service mode (see FIG. 19), but when the current operating mode is normal mode, the information is retained and the mode is not switched to normal mode (see FIG. 23).

As shown outside the table in FIG. 23, when the conditions are "payment-related + product-related", "payment-related + customer detection-related", "product-related + customer detection-related", or "multiple payment-related", the information may be inherited and the mode may be switched to normal. For example, a small screen (not shown, with "Yes" and "No" buttons) may be displayed that allows the store clerk to decide whether or not to switch modes, and the information may be inherited and the mode may be switched to normal depending on the selection of the store clerk (indication of the store clerk's intention) (when the "Yes" button is operated). The information may also be inherited and the mode may be switched to normal automatically (irrespective of the selection of the store clerk).

Note that taking over and retaining are similar in that they are not canceled. For example, taking over and retaining inserted cash are similar in that the cash is not dispensed, and taking over and retaining a selected payment type are similar in that the payment type is not canceled. Therefore, each process corresponding to "retaining information" in FIG. 23 (for example, each process named "XX information retention process") is the same as or similar to the "XX information taking over process" in FIG. 20(A) (the difference is at most whether the mode is switched or not).

(Customer information cancellation process)
In the above, it has been described that when customer information is acquired (for example, when customer information is acquired only) when the mode switching button 211a is operated, the acquired customer information is carried over (see FIG. 19, FIG. 23, etc.), but the acquired customer information may be cancelled. That is, when customer information has already been acquired when the mode switching operation is performed, the POS terminal 20 may execute a customer information cancellation process instead of the customer information transfer process. For example, when customer information has already been acquired when the mode switching operation is performed, the POS terminal 20 may display a small screen (not shown; "take over" button and "cancel" button are arranged) that allows the store clerk to decide whether to take over or cancel the acquired customer information, and may take over or cancel the customer information according to the store clerk's intention. When customer information is cancelled (when customer information cancellation process is executed), the mode may be switched or not (see FIG. 22(C)).

As described above, the POS terminal 20 behaves differently (operates) after the mode switching button 211a is operated depending on the operating mode, cash deposit status, payment type selection status, gift certificate registration status, product registration status, customer information acquisition status, and customer detection status at the time of the operation (see Figures 19, 23, etc.).

When the mode switching button 211a is operated, the POS terminal 20 executes, depending on the situation, other processes different from the mode switching process (e.g., deposit information cancellation process, deposit information transfer process, payment type information cancellation process, payment type information transfer process, gift certificate information cancellation process, gift certificate information transfer process, product information cancellation process, product information transfer process, customer information cancellation process, customer information transfer process) instead of or in addition to the mode switching process that should normally be performed by operating the mode switching button 211a.

(Other examples)
24 and 25 are explanatory diagrams for explaining various operations after a mode switching operation. The above-mentioned Figs. 19 and 23 explain that the behavior (operation) after the operation of the mode switching button 211a differs depending on the state of cash insertion, the state of payment type selection, the state of coupon registration, the state of product registration, the state of customer information acquisition, and the state of customer detection at the time of the operation, but Figs. 24 and 25 explain that the behavior (operation) after the operation of the mode switching button 211a differs depending on the state of operation, etc., of the store clerk side and the state of operation, etc., of the customer side at the time of the operation. Specifically, Fig. 24 is an explanatory diagram for explaining various operations after a mode switching operation from the normal mode to the full self-service mode. Fig. 25 is an explanatory diagram for explaining various operations after a mode switching operation from the full self-service mode to the normal mode.

In Figure 24 (similar to Figure 25), the "state of only clerk operation, etc." is, for example, a state where clerk operation, etc. is performed, customer operation, etc. is not performed, and no customer is detected. The "state of only customer operation, etc." is, for example, a state where clerk operation, etc. is performed, customer operation, etc. is performed, and no customer is detected. The "state of only customer detection, etc." is, for example, a state where clerk operation, etc. is not performed, customer operation, etc. is not performed, and a customer is detected.

Operation by the store clerk is present means that there is an operation by the store clerk (see FIG. 2, etc.) (for example, one or more of the following: operation of the store clerk display unit 210, operation of the key operation unit (excluding the mode switching button 211a), operation of the store clerk scanner unit 212, etc.).

"Customer operation, etc." means that there is operation, etc., on the customer side (see FIG. 2, etc.) (for example, one or more of operation of the customer display unit 205, operation of the customer scanner unit 206, operation of the card payment unit 208, operation of the change machine 209, etc.).

Note that membership cards and the like may be read either by the store clerk (store clerk scanner unit 212, etc.) or by the customer (customer scanner unit 206, etc.). In the full self-service mode, purchased items are generally registered by the customer (customer scanner unit 206, etc.), but may also be registered by the store clerk (store clerk scanner unit 212, etc.) (double scan mode).

In Figure 24 (similar to Figure 25), the "both sides operation state" is, for example, a state where there is operation on the store clerk side, operation on the customer side, and no customer detection. The "customer detection state for store clerk operation, etc." is, for example, a state where there is operation on the store clerk side, no operation on the customer side, and a customer detection. The "customer detection state for customer operation, etc." is, for example, a state where there is no operation on the store clerk side, operation on the customer side, and a customer detection.

For example, when the mode switching button 211a is operated while in normal mode, the POS terminal 20 may operate as shown in FIG. 24 instead of operating as shown in FIG. 19. Also, when the mode switching button 211a is operated while in full self mode, the POS terminal 20 may operate as shown in FIG. 25 instead of operating as shown in FIG. 23.

The POS terminal 20 may operate as shown in FIG. 19 when the mode switching button 211a is operated in the normal mode, and may operate as shown in FIG. 25 when the mode switching button 211a is operated in the full self-service mode. In other words, when the mode switching button 211a is operated in the normal mode, the behavior (operation) after the mode switching button 211a is operated may differ depending on the state of cash insertion, the state of payment type selection, the state of gift certificate registration, the state of product registration, the state of customer information acquisition, and the state of customer detection at the time of the operation, and when the mode switching button 211a is operated in the full self-service mode, the behavior (operation) after the mode switching button 211a is operated may differ depending on the state of the store clerk's operation, the state of the customer's operation, etc. at the time of the operation.

The POS terminal 20 may operate as shown in FIG. 24 when the mode switching button 211a is operated in the normal mode, and may operate as shown in FIG. 23 when the mode switching button 211a is operated in the full self-service mode. In other words, when the mode switching button 211a is operated in the normal mode, the behavior (operation) after the mode switching button 211a is operated may differ depending on the state of the clerk's operation and the state of the customer's operation at the time of the operation, and when the mode switching button 211a is operated in the full self-service mode, the behavior (operation) after the mode switching button 211a is operated may differ depending on the state of cash insertion, the state of payment type selection, the state of gift certificate registration, the state of product registration, the state of customer information acquisition, and the state of customer detection at the time of the operation.

In FIG. 19, there are cases where information is cancelled (for example, cash-in only state, product-registered only state, etc.) and cases where information is inherited without being cancelled (cash-in and product-registered state, cash-in customer detected state, etc.). In cases where information is cancelled, it is generally more likely that the information is unnecessary than when information is inherited.

For example, in a state where only cash has been inserted (cash-input only state), the possibility that the cash insertion was intended or that the deposit information will actually be used in a transaction immediately is low, so in this state (cash-input only state), the deposit information cancellation process is executed to cancel the deposit information. This is particularly true when the mode switching operation is originally performed in the initial state. In other words, when the mode switching operation is performed in a situation where it is believed that there is no deposit and no product registration is in progress (for example, a situation where there are no customers), if only the deposit information remains, it is unlikely that the deposit information will be used as information to be carried over, so the deposit is discharged and the deposit information is canceled. Also, for example, in a state where only a product has been registered (product registration only state), the possibility that the product registration was intended or that the product information will actually be used in a transaction immediately is low, so in this state (product registration only state), the product information cancellation process is executed to cancel the product information. This is particularly true when the mode switching operation is originally performed in the initial state. In other words, if the mode is switched when there are no customers present, and only the product information remains, it is unlikely that the product information will be carried over and used, so the product information is deleted.

On the other hand, for example, when cash is inserted and a product is registered (cash-input product registration state), it is highly likely that this is intentional because two operations have been performed, and in this state (cash-input product registration state), the deposit information transfer process and product information transfer process are executed to transfer the deposit information and product information.

In FIG. 23, the case where information is cancelled and the case where information is retained without being cancelled are similar to those in FIG. 22.

Similarly, in FIG. 24, there are cases where the information is cancelled (for example, when the clerk is operating alone, or when the customer is operating alone) and cases where the information is carried over without being cancelled (when both sides are operating), but when the information is cancelled, it is basically more likely that the information is unnecessary than when the information is carried over.

In other words, when only one of the clerk or customer is performing operations (clerk operation only, customer operation only) there is a lower chance that the state is the intended state or that the information will actually be used immediately, compared to when both the clerk and customer are performing operations (both operations, etc.). Therefore, when only one of the clerk or customer is performing operations (clerk operation only, customer operation only), the information is canceled, and when both the clerk and customer are performing operations (both operations, etc.), the information is carried over.

In Figure 25, the same principle applies to the cases where information is cancelled and where information is retained without being cancelled.

In the above explanation, the focus is on the overall processing in the POS terminal 20, and a state in which no processing is in progress (a state in which no product is registered, no cash is inserted, no payment type is selected, no gift certificates are registered, and no customer information is obtained) is referred to as the initial state; however, there may be cases in which the focus is on a portion of the processing and the state is referred to as the initial state. For example, the cash-inserted product registration state (a state in which products are registered, cash is inserted, no payment type is selected, no gift certificates are registered, and no customer information is obtained) cannot be called the initial state when the focus is on the overall processing, but it may be called the initial state when the focus is only on the state of the payment type selection. Also, it cannot be called the initial state when the focus is on the two states of the product registration state and the payment type selection state, but it may be called the initial state when the focus is on the two states of the payment type selection state and the gift certificate registration state.

(Layout)
Figure 26 shows an example of the layout of the POS terminals 20. Specifically, Figure 26(A) shows a configuration consisting of four POS terminals 20 in full self-service mode (hereinafter, this configuration will be referred to as configuration A). Configuration A is suitable for relatively less busy times.

When a customer has finished shopping on the sales floor, they go to one of the four POS terminals 20 in full self-service mode, register their products, and make the payment. The customer may choose a POS terminal 20 (such as an available POS terminal 20) to carry out the process (registration and payment) at their own discretion, or a store clerk (not shown in FIG. 26(A)) may instruct the customer who has finished shopping. Alternatively, a dedicated attendant terminal (not shown) may be installed, and a display screen of the attendant terminal may be used to guide a customer who has finished shopping to the POS terminal 20 that they should use for the process. In the case of configuration A, four payment pathways (traffic flows) are formed, as shown in FIG. 26(A).

Note that a configuration consisting of multiple POS terminals 20 (configuration A above or configuration B described below) may be referred to as an "island."

Figure 26 (B) shows a configuration consisting of two POS terminals 20 in normal mode and two in semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) (hereinafter, this configuration will be referred to as configuration B). Configuration B is a configuration suitable for relatively busy times. In the case of configuration B, as shown in Figure 26 (B), two accounting lines are formed (two lanes), but the POS terminal 20 on the upstream side of each accounting line is in normal mode, and the POS terminal 20 on the downstream side of each accounting line is in semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode).

When a customer has finished shopping at the sales floor, they go to one of the two POS terminals 20 in normal mode, where a store clerk registers the products. After the store clerk has completed the registration, the registration information is sent to the POS terminal 20 in semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode), and the customer then pays for the items themselves. Note that, to avoid disrupting the accounting wiring shown in the figure, registration information is generally sent to a POS terminal 20 in semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) in the same lane, but it is also possible to send it to a POS terminal 20 in semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) in another lane.

Next, we will explain the general operation when sending registration information to a POS terminal 20 in semi-self mode (accounting-only mode) in the same lane.

(1) The POS terminal 20 in normal mode (or a store clerk at the device; hereafter the same will be used in the following description) starts registering products for a certain customer (customer 1) on the store clerk side. After completing product registration for customer 1, the POS terminal 20 in normal mode transmits the registration information for customer 1 to another terminal, the POS terminal 20 in semi-self mode (accounting-only mode).
(2) The POS terminal 20 in normal mode, which has transmitted the registration information for customer 1, starts registering products for the next customer (customer 2) on the clerk's side. After completing product registration for customer 2, if the previous customer, customer 1, is still in semi-self mode (accounting-only mode) (if customer 1's payment at the other terminal has not been completed), the POS terminal 20 in normal mode will carry out payment for customer 2 on the customer's side of its own terminal. Note that if the next customer (customer 3) appears during customer 2's payment, the clerk's side is free, so registration of products for customer 3 will start. In other words, the POS terminal 20 in normal mode can carry out payment processing for customer 2 on the customer side while carrying out registration processing for customer 3 on the clerk's side (it can process customer 2's payment and customer 3's registration in parallel).
(3) After completing product registration for customer 3, if the previous customer, customer 2, is still on the customer side of the terminal (if customer 2's payment at the terminal has not been completed), the POS terminal 20 in normal mode sends the registration information for customer 3 to another terminal, the POS terminal 20 in semi-self mode (accounting-only mode).

Next, we will explain switching from configuration A to configuration B, and from configuration B to configuration A.

There are two types of methods for switching from configuration A to configuration B (methods for switching from configuration B to configuration A). One is a method (individual method) in which a mode switching operation is performed individually on each of the multiple POS terminals 20 that make up the "island" (four terminals in the examples of configurations A and B). The other is a method (collective method) in which a mode switching operation is performed on any one POS terminal 20 that makes up the "island" (one of the four terminals in the examples of configurations A and B), and the mode switching operation on one terminal also switches the modes of the other POS terminals 20 that make up the "island" collectively.

Figure 27 is an explanatory diagram for explaining mode switching. Specifically, Figure 27 (A) is an explanatory diagram for explaining mode switching, etc., when switching from configuration A to configuration B. More specifically, section (a) of Figure 27 (A) explains the individual method for switching from configuration A to configuration B described above. Section (b) of Figure 27 (A) explains the collective method for switching from configuration A to configuration B described above. Figure 27 (B) is an explanatory diagram for explaining mode switching, etc., when switching from configuration B to configuration A. More specifically, section (c) of Figure 27 (B) explains the individual method for switching from configuration B to configuration A described above. Section (d) of Figure 27 (B) explains the collective method for switching from configuration B to configuration A described above.

As shown in Figures 27(A) and 27(B), the batch method is advantageous compared to the individual method because it does not require much effort to switch from configuration A to configuration B or from configuration B to configuration A.

To realize the batch method, each POS terminal 20 stores information indicating how to switch modes when a switching operation is performed or a switching instruction is received (or by querying another terminal), and switches to an appropriate operating mode (the operating mode shown in column (b) of FIG. 27(A) or column (d) of FIG. 27(A)) in response to the switching operation or switching instruction.

As shown outside the table in FIG. 27, the mode switching operation in the individual method (similar to the batch method) may be performed using a hardware key or a software key (described below). In addition, in the individual method (similar to the batch method), instead of or in addition to the mode switching operation, individual operating modes may be switched by a mode switching command from a monitoring terminal or a store clerk's mobile terminal.

In addition, in the batch method, switching of the batch method may be enabled not in any one POS terminal 20 but in a specific POS terminal 20 (for example, a POS terminal 20 frequently used by a store manager (a POS terminal 20 located in a certain location), a POS terminal 20 to which the store manager is logged in, etc.). For example, when the switching button 211a is operated in a specific POS terminal 20, switching using the batch method is executed, but when the switching button 211a is operated in a POS terminal 20 other than the specific POS terminal 20, switching using the batch method may not be executed.

In addition, in the batch method, a dedicated button for the batch method may be provided (for example, batch switching button 211b (see FIG. 3B)).

Operation using the collective switching button 211b may be effective on a specific POS terminal 20. For example, the collective switching button 211b may be arranged on a specific POS terminal 20 (e.g., a POS terminal 20 frequently used by a store manager or the like (a POS terminal 20 located in a certain place) and the collective switching button 211b may not be arranged on a POS terminal 20 that is not a specific POS terminal 20. Also, although the collective switching button 211b is arranged on all POS terminals 20, when the collective switching button 211b is operated on a specific POS terminal 20 (e.g., a POS terminal 20 where a store manager or the like is logged in), switching using the collective method may be performed, but when the collective switching button 211b is operated on a POS terminal 20 that is not a specific POS terminal 20, switching using the collective method may not be performed. The same applies to operation using the accounting-only mode switching button 211c (described later).

Next, the individual switching method will be described. Figure 27 is an explanatory diagram for explaining mode switching. Note that while configurations A and B have been described above, the individual switching method described in Figure 27 is also applicable when appropriately switching to a configuration other than configuration A and configuration B. For example, it is also applicable to a situation where switching is made to a configuration in which there is one POS terminal 20 in normal mode and one POS terminal 20 in semi-self-service (accounting-only mode), and two POS terminals 20 in full-self-service mode.

Assuming an example of two types of operation modes (normal mode, full self mode), the operation modes are switched in sequence each time the mode switching button 211a is operated. However, even if there are three or more types of operation modes, each time the mode switching button 211a is operated, each operation may be switched in sequence to each operation mode, just as in the case where there are two types of operation modes. When there are three or more types of operation modes, multiple operations are required to switch to the desired operation mode.

Figure 28 is an explanatory diagram explaining mode switching. The individual method (1) shown in Figure 28 explains an example in which three operating modes (normal mode, full self-service mode, semi-self-service (accounting only mode)) are switched in sequence. In the case of the individual method (1) shown in Figure 28, the mode switches from "normal mode" → "full self-service mode" → "semi-self-service (accounting only mode)", so for example, if the current operating mode is normal mode, two operations are required to switch to semi-self-service (accounting only mode).

Providing multiple mode switching operations reduces the number of operations required when switching to the desired operating mode. In the individual method (2) shown in FIG. 28, when mode switching operation 1 (e.g., operation of switching button 211a in FIG. 3) is performed, the mode switches between normal mode and full self-service mode in sequence, and when mode switching operation 2 (e.g., operation of accounting-only mode switching button 211c in FIG. 3) is performed, the mode switches to "semi-self-service (accounting-only mode)". The POS terminal 20 may switch the operating mode of each POS terminal 20 using the individual method (2) instead of the individual method (1).

As shown outside the table in FIG. 28, when mode switching operation 1 is performed (similarly when mode switching operation 2 is performed), if the current operating mode is "semi-self (accounting only mode)", the operating mode may be switched to the operating mode before it became "semi-self (accounting only mode)" ("normal mode" or "full self mode").

In addition, instead of the individual method (1) or the individual method (2), a number of mode switching buttons corresponding to each of the operation modes may be provided, and the operation mode may be switched to the operation mode corresponding to the operated mode switching button.

The mode switching buttons 211a and the like for switching the operation modes are hardware keys, but instead of or in addition to the hardware keys, the operation modes may be switched by software keys displayed on the display unit (such as the store clerk display unit 210). That is, instead of or in addition to the switching button 211a, a software key equivalent to the switching button 211a may be displayed, instead of or in addition to the all-switching button 211b, a software key equivalent to the all-switching button 211b may be displayed, or instead of or in addition to the accounting-only mode switching button 211c, a software key equivalent to the accounting-only mode switching button 211c may be displayed. The same applies to each button when a number of mode switching buttons corresponding to each of the operation modes are provided.

Figure 29 is an explanatory diagram explaining the bag receiver. Figure 29(A) shows the state of the bag receiver suitable for when the POS terminal 20 is in full self-service mode. Figure 29(B) is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 29(A) (bag receiver plate 300). In Figure 29(A), the right side is the upstream side of the checkout lead, and the left side is the downstream side. The same is true for Figures 29(C) and 29(D).

In the full self-service mode, customers bag their own purchased items. The person (customer) bagging the purchased items hangs a bag (shopping bag, bag for personal use) on arm 301 that stands up from bag receiving plate 300, as shown in Figures 29(A) and 29(B). In this bag-receiving state, since arm 301 stands up on the side of the person (customer) bagging the purchased items (i.e., the customer side (see Figure 2)), it is easy for the person (customer) to hang the bag, and since the bag is downstream, it is easy to pack the purchased items.

Figure 29 (C) shows the bag receiver state suitable for when the POS terminal 20 is in normal mode. In normal mode, the purchased items are basically bagged by a store clerk (for example, every time an item is registered, the items are bagged while the customer is paying). The person bagging the purchased items (store clerk) bags the purchased items by hanging the bags on the arm 302 that stands up from the side of the POS terminal 20, as shown in Figure 29 (C). In this bag receiver state, the bag receiver plate 300 does not get in the way, making it easy for the person bagging the purchased items (store clerk) to hang the bags, and because the bags are on the downstream side, it is also easy to pack the purchased items.

Figure 29 (D) shows the state when the bag hanger is not in use. When the bag hanger is not in use, as shown in Figure 29 (D), the bag receiving plate 300 rotates (rotates toward the front in the figure) to fit against the side of the housing, and the arm 302 is folded against the side of the housing. Note that a storage section (recess, groove, etc.) for storing the arm 301 may be provided at a position opposite the arm 301 on the side of the housing so that the bag receiving plate 300 fits neatly against the side of the housing of the POS terminal 20.

When necessary (for example, when switching the POS terminal 20 from another operating mode to the full self-service mode), the store clerk rotates the bag receiving plate 300, which has been stored as shown in FIG. 29(D), to the position shown in FIG. 29(A). Note that by providing a drive unit that controls the rotation of the bag receiving plate 300, the bag receiving plate 300 may be rotated automatically (rather than manually by the store clerk). When switching from the full self-service mode to another operating mode, the reverse operation may be performed automatically.

Also, when necessary (for example, when switching the POS terminal 20 from another operating mode to the normal mode), the store clerk raises the arm 302, which was folded as shown in FIG. 29(D), to the position shown in FIG. 29(C). Note that the arm 302 may be raised automatically by providing a drive unit that controls the raising of the arm 302. When switching from the normal mode to another operating mode, the reverse operation may be performed automatically.

In semi-self-service (accounting-only mode), the state shown in Fig. 29(A) or the state shown in Fig. 29(D) is suitable. For example, the state shown in Fig. 29(D) is suitable in situations where the purchased items have already been bagged when the customer moves to the terminal after the store clerk has registered the items (for example, when the store clerk bags the items when registering the items in the bag receiving state of Fig. 29(C)). On the other hand, the state shown in Fig. 29(A) is suitable in situations where the purchased items have not yet been bagged when the customer moves to the terminal after the store clerk has registered the items (when the customer moves to the terminal with the shopping basket still in place).

The above describes an embodiment using the drawings. According to the above embodiment, when a mode switching operation is performed, the POS terminal 20 can be operated appropriately according to the situation (state) at the time of operation.

For example, as shown in Figures 19 and 23, when a mode switching operation is performed, the POS terminal 20 operates appropriately depending on the operating mode, the cash deposit status, the payment type selection status, the gift certificate registration status, the product registration status, the customer information acquisition status, and the customer detection status at the time of the operation.

For example, as shown in Figures 24 and 25, when a mode switching operation is performed, the POS terminal 20 operates appropriately depending on the operating mode, the state of the store clerk's operation, the state of the customer's operation, and the state of customer detection at the time of operation.

Alternatively, as shown in Figures 19, 23, 24, and 25, when a mode switching operation is performed, the POS terminal 20 executes other suitable processes different from the mode switching process (e.g., deposit information cancellation process, deposit information transfer process, payment type information cancellation process, payment type information transfer process, gift certificate information cancellation process, gift certificate information transfer process, product information cancellation process, product information transfer process, customer information cancellation process, customer information transfer process) instead of or in addition to the mode switching process, depending on the situation at the time of the operation.

Alternatively, if any information remains when a mode switching operation is performed (if the state is not the initial state), the POS terminal 20 will differ in its behavior after the operation based on whether the state is the intended state or not.

For example, when only cash has been inserted (cash inserted only state) or when only a product has been registered (product registered only state), it is determined that the state is unlikely to be the intended state, and the information is cancelled. However, when cash has been inserted and a product has been registered (cash inserted and product registered state), it is determined that the state is likely to be the intended state, and the information is not cancelled (see Figures 19 and 23).

In addition, for example, when an operation is being performed by either the store clerk or the customer (a state in which the store clerk is operating alone, or a state in which the customer is operating alone), it is determined that the state is unlikely to be intended, and the information is cancelled. However, when an operation is being performed by both the store clerk and the customer (a state in which both sides are operating), it is determined that the state is likely to be intended, and the information is not cancelled (see Figures 24 and 25).

The above embodiment is merely an example, and the specific configuration is not limited to the above embodiment, and includes designs that do not deviate from the gist of the invention.

For example, in the above embodiment, if multiple pieces of information exist when a mode switching operation is performed and the information is not canceled, not all of the multiple pieces of information that exist are canceled, but it is also possible to cancel some of the multiple pieces of information that exist and not cancel some of the information.
For example, in the above embodiment, when cash is inserted and a product is registered (cash inserted product registration state), both the deposit information and product information are carried over (see FIG. 19) or retained (see FIG. 23), but it is also possible to cancel the deposit information and carry over (or retain) the product information.

In other words, when a mode switching operation is performed, one cancellation process (e.g., in the above example, the deposit information cancellation process) and one transfer process (e.g., in the above example, the product information transfer process) shown in FIG. 20(A) may be executed.

In addition, in the above embodiment, if the state when the mode switching operation is performed is the cash-only insertion state, the deposit information is always canceled (see Figures 19 and 23), but the processing may be different depending on the cash insertion status (inserted amount, number of inserted bills, whether bills or coins are inserted, etc.).

For example, if the total amount deposited is less than a specified amount, it may be determined that the deposit was unlikely to have been intentional, and the deposit information may be cancelled, whereas if the total amount deposited is equal to or greater than a specified amount, it may be determined that the deposit was likely intentional, and the deposit information may be carried over or retained.

For example, if the total number of inserted coins, bills, etc. is less than a predetermined number, it may be determined that the insertion is unlikely to have been intentional, and the deposit information may be cancelled, whereas if the total number of inserted coins is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, it may be determined that the insertion is likely to have been intentional, and the deposit information may be carried over or retained.

For example, if coins have been inserted, it may be determined that the insertion was unlikely to have been intentional, and the deposit information may be cancelled, whereas if paper money has been inserted, it may be determined that the insertion was likely intentional, and the deposit information may be carried over or retained.

For example, regardless of the total number of coins inserted, if only coins or only banknotes are inserted, it may be determined that the insertion is unlikely to have been intentional, and the deposit information may be cancelled, whereas if both coins and banknotes are inserted, it may be determined that the insertion is likely to have been intentional, and the deposit information may be carried over or retained.

In addition, in the above embodiment, if the state when the mode switching operation is performed is the voucher registration only state, the voucher information is always cancelled (see Figures 19 and 23), but the processing may be different depending on the voucher registration status (amount, number, type, etc.).

For example, if the total value of the vouchers (the total value of the registered vouchers) is less than a specified amount, it may be determined that the registration is unlikely to have been intentional, and the voucher information may be cancelled, whereas if the total value of the vouchers is equal to or greater than a specified amount, it may be determined that the registration is likely to have been intentional, and the voucher information may be carried over or retained.

For example, if the total number of vouchers (total number of registered vouchers) is less than a predetermined number, it may be determined that the registration is unlikely to have been intentional, and the voucher information may be cancelled, whereas if the total number of vouchers is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, it may be determined that the registration is likely to have been intentional, and the voucher information may be carried over or retained.

Also, for example, regardless of the total number of gift certificates, if only a single type of gift certificate is registered (e.g., two gift certificates A), it may be determined that the registration is unlikely to have been intentional, and the gift certificate information may be cancelled, whereas if multiple types of gift certificates are registered (e.g., one gift certificate A and one gift certificate B), it may be determined that the registration is likely to have been intentional, and the gift certificate information may be carried over or retained.

In addition, in the above embodiment, if the state when the mode switching operation is performed is the product registration only state, the product information is always cancelled (see Figures 19 and 23), but the processing may be different depending on the product registration status (price, number of items, etc.).

For example, if the total product price (total price of registered products) is less than a specified amount, it may be determined that the registration is unlikely to have been intended, and the product information may be cancelled, whereas if the total product price is equal to or greater than a specified amount, it may be determined that the registration is likely to have been intended, and the product information may be taken over or retained.

For example, if the total number of products (total number of registered products) is less than a predetermined number, it may be determined that the registration is unlikely to have been intended, and the product information may be cancelled, whereas if the total number of products is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, it may be determined that the registration is likely to have been intended, and the product information may be taken over or retained.

In the above embodiment, the operation after the mode switching operation is different depending on the state at the time of the mode switching operation, but the operation after the mode switching operation may be different taking into account the duration of the state. In other words, the operation may be different depending on the time that has passed since each state was entered. As an example, if the state when the mode switching operation is performed is a cash-only insertion state, the operation may be different depending on the time that has passed since cash insertion.

For example, the POS terminal 20 may store the time when cash was inserted, and if the state when the mode was switched was a cash-only state, it may cancel the deposit information if the time elapsed since the time of cash insertion (or the time of the last cash insertion if multiple cash insertions have been made) is greater than a predetermined time, but may take over or retain the deposit information if the time elapsed since the time of cash insertion is less than the predetermined time. Note that the processing may be different depending on the cash insertion status (amount inserted, number of inserted bills, whether bills or coins, etc.) and the time elapsed since the cash insertion. Alternatively, the time elapsed since the cash insertion may be considered as one of the cash insertion statuses.

For example, the POS terminal 20 may store the time when the product was registered, and if the state when the mode was switched was a state in which only the product was registered, it may cancel the product information if the time that has elapsed since the product was registered (or the last product registration time if multiple registrations have been performed) is greater than a predetermined time, but may take over or retain the product information if the time that has elapsed since the time the cash was inserted is less than the predetermined time. The above-mentioned product registration status (amount, points, etc.) may be combined with the time that has elapsed since the product was registered to differentiate the processing. Alternatively, the time that has elapsed since the product was registered may be considered as one of the product registration statuses.

In the above embodiment, when the mode switching button 211a is operated, a process corresponding to the state when the mode switching operation is performed is executed (the operation corresponds to the state when the mode switching operation is performed), but before the process is actually executed, the type of process to be executed (the type of operation) may be notified. For example, if a certain operation is to be performed after the mode switching operation, a small screen may be displayed before the operation is actually performed, indicating that the operation will be performed and displaying an OK button and an NG button to request the store clerk to reject the operation, and if the NG button is operated, the operation is not performed, and if the OK button is operated, the operation is performed. The same applies when the all-key switching button 211b or the accounting-only mode switching button 211c is operated. In a mode in which a software key (a software key corresponding to the switching button 211a, a software key corresponding to the all-key switching button 211b, or a software key corresponding to the accounting-only mode switching button 211c) is used, the same applies when the mode switching button of the software key is operated.

In addition, in a mode in which the operating mode is switched by a software key (such as a mode in which a software key is provided instead of or in addition to a hardware key), information may be displayed in association with the software key (for example, on the software key, superimposed on the software key, or in the vicinity of the display position of the software key) to notify the user of what process is actually executed (what operation is performed) when a mode switching operation is performed using the software key (which may include a case in which a mode switching operation is performed using the mode switching button 211a, if the device has the mode switching button 211a).

Furthermore, after a mode switching operation (operation of a hardware key, software key, etc.), multiple types of operation modes (individual operation modes, operation modes relating to the entire "island" such as configuration A and configuration B, etc.) may be displayed in a manner that the store clerk can select (for example, displayed on the store clerk's display unit 210, displayed on a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet device used by the store clerk), and the operation mode may be switched to the operation mode selected by the store clerk.

In addition to or instead of a mode switching operation (operation of a hardware key, software key, etc.) being performed (after a mode switching operation), multiple types of operation modes may be displayed in a manner selectable by the store clerk as described above even when no mode switching operation is performed. For example, multiple types of operation modes may be displayed in a manner selectable by the store clerk when the store clerk operates (presses) image GA02, image GA03, etc. in FIG. 9(A). That is, when image GA02 in FIG. 9(A) is operated, the operation mode of the switching destination (switching candidate) of the POS terminal 20-2 corresponding to image GA02, the switching destination configuration (configuration A, configuration B) of the island to which the POS terminal 20-2 corresponding to image GA02 belongs, etc. may be displayed so that the store clerk can select them. Also, for example, a dedicated area may be provided on the registration screen, and multiple types of operation modes may be displayed in the dedicated area basically at all times in a manner selectable by the store clerk as described above.

In addition to or instead of the above, information regarding the switching of the "island" may be notified. For example, depending on the congestion situation in the store, a notification urging the switching of the "island" mode may be made to the POS terminal 20 (a specific POS terminal 20 or all POS terminals in the store), a monitoring terminal, or a mobile terminal used by a store clerk. The store clerk may check and judge the congestion situation in the store, but the judgment may be made automatically using a camera in the store (a camera installed on the ceiling or the POS terminal 20), or may be made automatically based on the operating status of the POS terminal 20. In addition to or instead of the congestion situation in the store, information regarding the switching of the "island" may be notified according to a predetermined schedule. For example, in the case of a store where the number of customers starts to decrease after 8 p.m., a schedule may be set to make a notification at 8 p.m. to encourage switching from configuration B to configuration A, and a notification may be made according to the schedule (at 8 p.m.).

Also, instead of or in addition to the above-mentioned notifications, the system may be set to switch to "island" mode according to a predetermined schedule. For example, since there are many customers until 8 p.m., the system may be scheduled to operate in configuration B, and then switch to configuration A around 8 p.m. when the number of customers begins to decrease.

In addition, when a switching key that normally only switches the mode of the user's own device is determined to be used before or after the scheduled switching time (e.g., between 19:50 and 20:10) as described above, the key may be displayed so that the user can select whether to switch the user's own device or to switch the "island." In other words, a certain mode switching operation (operation of a hardware key, software key, etc.) may be used in some cases to only switch the user's own device, or in other cases to switch the user's own device or to switch the "island."

In addition, in a case where the operating mode is switched by a software key, information that notifies the various states described above (various states shown in Figures 19, 23, 24, 25, etc.) may be displayed in association with the software key instead of or in addition to information that notifies the type of processing that will actually be performed (the type of operation that will result). Note that information that is displayed in tab area T1 (information related to the selected payment type, acquired customer information, registered voucher information, etc.) may be displayed as information that notifies the various states.

In addition, the POS terminal 20 may accept operation of a button on an external device that can be connected to the POS terminal 20 by wire or wirelessly (a hardware key provided on the external device, or a software key displayed on the screen of the external device) instead of or in addition to a hardware key (mode switching button 211a) or the above-mentioned software key as a mode switching operation, and when operation of a button on the external device is accepted, the same control as when operation of the mode switching button 211a is accepted may be performed.

As already explained in part, when the POS terminal 20 receives a mode switching instruction (mode switching command) from another terminal (for example, a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or tablet terminal used by a store clerk), it may perform the same control as when it receives operation of the mode switching button 211a. Note that, as described above, in a mode in which a mode switching instruction is received from another terminal, the POS terminal 20 itself may have a mode switching means (hardware key, software key), but the POS terminal 20 itself does not have to have a mode switching means.

It may be possible to allow mode switching operations (including mode switching instructions from other terminals) only when the operator is a specific store clerk (depending on the operator's authority). For example, when the store manager or the like is logged in to the POS terminal 20, the mode switching operation may be enabled (specifically, controlled as shown in Figures 19, 23, 24, and 25), and when a part-time worker or the like is logged in, the mode switching operation may be disabled (an error may be generated unconditionally regardless of the state at the time of the mode switching operation).

In the above embodiment, when the subtotal key is operated, the POS terminal 20-1 displays the small screen SG02 superimposed on the registration screen (FIG. 13(A)). However, when the subtotal key is operated, the POS terminal 20-1 may display (switch to) a small screen that displays the information displayed on the small screen SG02 instead of the registration screen.

In addition, in the above embodiment, the POS terminal 20 is equipped with one printing unit 213 that can be rotated to face from the store clerk side to the customer side and vice versa (see Figures 2 to 4), but instead of one printing unit 213, it may be equipped with two printing units (one fixedly facing the store clerk side and one fixedly facing the customer side).

In the above embodiment, when sending registration information to another terminal, the store clerk specified (selected) the destination (destination) terminal of the registration information. However, when sending registration information to another terminal, the store clerk may simply specify that the registration information is to be sent without specifying the destination terminal. In other words, it is possible to simply provide only a send button. In an embodiment in which the store clerk specifies that the registration information is to be sent without specifying the destination terminal, the sending terminal selects one destination terminal according to a predetermined priority order and sends the registration information to the selected terminal.

For example, when sending registration information from POS terminal 20-1 to other terminals (POS terminal 20-2, POS terminal 20-3), the above-mentioned predetermined priority order may be set so that the POS terminal 20-3 in full self-service mode has a higher priority than the POS terminal 20-2 in normal mode (the registration information may be sent preferentially to the POS terminal 20-3 in full self-service mode).

Appendices 1 to 10 are disclosed below.
(Appendix 1)
A sales data processing device capable of operating in a plurality of operating modes,
An instruction receiving means for receiving an operation mode switching instruction for switching the operation mode of the device itself (for example, a mode switching operation using the mode switching button 211a or a software key, a mode switching command, etc.);
A control means for controlling the device itself,
The control means
When the state of the device itself at the time of receiving the operation mode switching instruction is an initial state (e.g., a state in which processing is not in progress, etc.), control is made to execute an operation mode switching process (such as the mode switching process of FIG. 20) for switching the operation mode of the device itself;
A sales data processing device characterized in that if the state of the device itself when the operation mode switching instruction is received is not an initial state, instead of or in addition to the operation mode switching process, another process different from the operation mode switching process (see Figure 20 (A)).

The configuration of Supplementary Note 1 allows for efficient processing. In other words, in general, the operating mode is switched to allow for efficient processing, but when switching operating modes, various confirmation tasks by the store clerk are required depending on the state of the device itself, which may actually result in poor efficiency. On the other hand, with the above configuration, the sales data processing device operates appropriately depending on the state of the device itself when it receives an instruction to switch operating modes, allowing for efficient processing.

(Appendix 2)
The sales data processing device described in Appendix 1, characterized in that the instruction receiving means receives an operation mode switching operation by a store clerk (e.g., a mode switching operation using a mode switching button 211a or a software key) as the operation mode switching instruction.

The configuration in Appendix 2 makes it easy to switch between operating modes.

(Appendix 3)
The control means
When the operation mode switching instruction is received, if the progress state of the payment processing in the own device (for example, the state of cash insertion, the state of payment type selection, the state of coupon registration, etc.) is an initial state, control the execution of the operation mode switching process;
A sales data processing device as described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2, characterized in that if the progress state of the payment processing in the device itself is not in an initial state when the operation mode switching instruction is received, instead of or in addition to the operation mode switching process, the device controls the execution of a payment cancellation process (e.g., the "deposit information cancellation process", "payment type information cancellation process", "gift certificate information cancellation process" in Figure 20 (A)), which resets the progress state of the payment processing in the device itself to its initial state.

The configuration of Appendix 3 allows efficient processing according to the progress of the payment process.

(Appendix 4)
The control means
When the operation mode switching instruction is received, if the progress state of the product registration process in the own device (e.g., the state of the product registration) is an initial state, control the execution of the operation mode switching process;
A sales data processing device as described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2, characterized in that if the progress state of the product registration process in the device itself is not in an initial state when the operation mode switching instruction is received, instead of or in addition to the operation mode switching process, the device controls the execution of a product registration cancellation process (e.g., the "product information cancellation process" in Figure 20 (A)) that resets the progress state of the product registration process in the device itself to an initial state.

The configuration of Appendix 4 allows efficient processing according to the progress of the product registration process.

(Appendix 5)
The control means
A sales data processing device as described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2, characterized in that when the progress states of both the payment processing and product registration processing in the device itself when the operation mode switching instruction is received are both in their initial states, or when the progress states of both the processing when the operation mode switching instruction is received are not in their initial states (for example, the ``cash-input product registration state'' in Figures 19 and 23, etc.).

The configuration of Appendix 5 allows efficient processing according to the progress of the payment process and product registration process.

(Appendix 6)
The control means
When the operation mode switching instruction is given, the progress state of the settlement processing in the own device is an initial state, but when the progress state of the product registration processing in the own device is not an initial state when the operation mode switching instruction is given, control is performed to execute a product registration cancellation process to reset the progress state of the product registration processing in the own device to an initial state instead of or in addition to the operation mode switching process;
A sales data processing device as described in Supplementary Note 1, Supplementary Note 2, and Supplementary Note 5, characterized in that when the operation mode switching instruction is received, the progress state of the product registration processing in the device itself is in an initial state, but when the progress state of the payment processing in the device itself is not in the initial state when the operation mode switching instruction is received, instead of or in addition to the operation mode switching processing, the device controls the execution of a payment cancellation processing that resets the progress state of the payment processing in the device itself to the initial state.

The configuration of Appendix 6 allows efficient processing according to the progress of the payment process and product registration process.

(Appendix 7)
The control means
A sales data processing device as described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2, characterized in that when the progress states of both processes, the process based on the clerk's operation and the process based on the customer's operation, are in their initial states when the operation mode switching instruction is given, or when the progress states of both processes, the process based on the clerk's operation and the process based on the customer's operation, are not in their initial states when the operation mode switching instruction is given (for example, the ``both sides operation state'' in Figures 24 and 25, etc.).

The configuration of Appendix 7 allows efficient processing according to the state of operations by store clerks and customers.

(Appendix 8)
The control means
when the operation mode switching instruction is given, the progress state of the process based on the operation of the store clerk is in an initial state, but when the progress state of the process based on the operation of the customer is not in the initial state, control is performed to execute a cancellation process to reset the progress state of the process based on the operation of the customer to the initial state instead of or in addition to the operation mode switching process;
A sales data processing device as described in Supplementary Note 1, Supplementary Note 2, and Supplementary Note 7, characterized in that, when the progress state of the processing based on the customer's operation when the operation mode switching instruction is given is in an initial state, but when the progress state of the processing based on the store clerk's operation when the operation mode switching instruction is given is not in the initial state, instead of or in addition to the operation mode switching process, the execution of a cancellation process that resets the progress state of the processing based on the store clerk's operation to the initial state.

The configuration of Appendix 8 allows efficient processing according to the state of operations by store clerks and customers.

(Appendix 9)
a detection means for detecting the presence of a customer of the device;
The control means
A sales data processing device as described in any one of appendices 1 to 8, characterized in that if the presence of a customer is detected when the operation mode switching instruction is received, the execution of the operation mode switching process is controllable.

The configuration of Appendix 9 allows efficient processing depending on whether or not the presence of a customer is detected.

(Appendix 10)
A program for causing a computer to function as a sales data processing device capable of operating in a plurality of operating modes,
The computer,
An instruction receiving means for receiving an operation mode switching instruction for switching an operation mode of the own device;
Functioning as a control means for controlling the device itself;
The control means
When the state of the own device at the time of receiving the operation mode switching instruction is an initial state, control is performed to execute an operation mode switching process to switch the operation mode of the own device;
A program characterized by executing another process different from the operation mode switching process instead of or in addition to the operation mode switching process when the state of the device itself is not an initial state when the operation mode switching instruction is received.

The program for implementing the POS system 1 and the POS terminal 20 described above may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program may be read and executed by the computer system. The term "computer system" as used herein includes hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices. The term "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 the computer system. The term "computer-readable recording medium" also includes storage devices that hold the program for a certain period of time, such as volatile memory (RAM) inside a computer system that becomes a server or client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. The program may be transmitted from a computer system that stores the program in a storage device to another computer system via a transmission medium or by a transmission wave in the transmission medium. The "transmission medium" that transmits the program refers to a medium that has a function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet or a communication line (communication line) such as a telephone line. The program may also be for implementing part of the above-mentioned functions. Furthermore, the above-mentioned functions may be realized in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system, i.e., a differential file (differential program).

1 POS system 10 store controller 20 POS terminal 201 CPU
202...ROM
203...RAM
204: Hard disk 205: Customer display unit 206: Customer scanner unit 208: Card payment unit 209: Change machine 210: Clerk display unit 211: Key operation unit 211a: Mode switching button 211b: Mode switching button 211c: Mode switching button 212: Clerk scanner unit 213: Printing unit 214: Audio output unit 215: Communication unit

Claims (5)

A sales data processing device having a clerk registration mode in which a clerk operates a clerk -side display unit to register a product, and a customer registration mode in which a customer operates a customer -side display unit to register a product,
a reception unit for receiving an operation of an operation mode switching instruction by the store clerk to switch the operation mode of the device to the store clerk registration mode or the customer registration mode;
an operation mode switching execution means for executing an operation mode switching process for switching an operation mode of the device itself based on the reception by the reception means ;
A sales data processing device characterized in that it is provided with a prohibition means for prohibiting the operation mode switching execution means from executing the operation mode switching process when the operation mode of the device itself is the customer registration mode and product registration has been completed. The sales data processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, when the operation mode of the device itself is the customer registration mode, if the reception means receives an operation for switching the operation mode while a product is registered, a notification is given that the product registration has been cancelled . The sales data processing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it has two registration sides: a clerk side where the clerk operates the clerk side display unit to register products, and a customer side where the customer operates the customer side display unit to register products . A program for causing a computer to function as a sales data processing device having a clerk registration mode in which a clerk operates a clerk -side display unit to register a product, and a customer registration mode in which a customer operates a customer-side display unit to register a product,
The computer,
a reception unit for receiving an operation of an operation mode switching instruction by the store clerk to switch the operation mode of the device to the store clerk registration mode or the customer registration mode;
an operation mode switching execution means for executing an operation mode switching process for switching an operation mode of the device itself based on the reception by the reception means ;
A program characterized by functioning as a prohibition means for prohibiting the execution of the operation mode switching process by the operation mode switching execution means when the operation mode of the device itself is the customer registration mode and product registration has been completed. A method for processing product sales data in a sales data processing device having a clerk registration mode in which a clerk operates a clerk -side display unit to register a product, and a customer registration mode in which a customer operates a customer -side display unit to register a product, comprising:
a receiving step of receiving an operation of an operation mode switching instruction by the store clerk to switch the operation mode of the device to the store clerk registration mode or the customer registration mode;
an operation mode switching execution step of executing an operation mode switching process for switching an operation mode of the own device based on the reception in the reception step ;
A sales data processing method characterized by including a prohibition step of prohibiting execution of the operation mode switching process by the operation mode switching execution step when the operation mode of the device itself is the customer registration mode and product registration has been completed.

Images