JP7626427B2 - Product sales data processing system, device for store clerk, device for customer, notification method, and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a product sales data processing system, a store clerk device, a customer device, a notification method, and a program.

In the past, point-of-sales (POS) registers that allow customers to check out themselves without the assistance of a store clerk have become commonplace in stores such as supermarkets. With such POS registers, customers are required to operate the POS register themselves, which can lead to fraud or the customer being unable to operate it efficiently. To address this issue, a self-checkout system is known in which an attendant terminal displays the operating status of the self-checkout terminal and the occurrence of errors (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

JP 2007-95026 A

However, even if there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the self-checkout, if there is no error in the self-checkout, the store clerk has no opportunity to speak to the customer and may hesitate to speak to the customer. This creates a problem in that new or shy store clerks may not be able to provide appropriate support to the customer.

The present invention was made in light of these circumstances, and its purpose is to provide technology that can assist store clerks in providing appropriate support to customers.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention is a product sales data processing system that includes a customer device where at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by the customer, and a clerk device operated by a clerk, wherein the clerk device is capable of receiving input from the clerk for issuing an error notification on the customer device, and the customer device issues the notification when the clerk device receives the input.

1 is a network configuration diagram of a POS (Point Of Sales) system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of installation of a POS terminal device 20. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the POS terminal device 20. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the monitoring device 11. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram for explaining an outline of the operation in a full self-operation mode. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a process for error notification and voice notification in a full self-service mode. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a monitoring screen 700 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. FIG. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification screen 800 for calling out to a customer displayed on a POS terminal 20-3 in full self-service mode. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a journal screen 900 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a details screen 1000 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an image capture screen 1100 displayed on a display unit 305 of a monitoring device 11. FIG. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram for explaining an outline of the operation in the semi-self-service mode. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a process for error notification and voice notification in a semi-self-service mode. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 of the registered POS terminal device 20a in semi-self-service mode. FIG. FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an urgency table 1500 relating to error notification. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an error notification and voice notification process according to the first modified example; FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an error confirmation screen 1700 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. FIG. FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification screen 1800 for calling out to a customer, as modified example 1, displayed on a self-checkout register. 19 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an error selection screen 1900 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a monitoring screen 2000 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11 when an error occurs. FIG. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen in Modification 3.

(Embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a network configuration diagram of a POS (Point Of Sales) system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The POS system 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes a plurality of POS terminals 20-1, 20-2, and 20-n (n≧2), a store controller (store computer, management device) 10, and a monitoring device 11. Hereinafter, when the POS terminals 20-1, 20-2, and 20-n are not particularly distinguished from one another, they will be collectively referred to as the POS terminals 20. The store controller 10, the monitoring device 11, and the POS terminals 20 are connected to each other via a LAN 55 so as to be able to communicate with each other. In this embodiment, the number "n" of the POS terminals 20 is "3", but is not limited thereto and may be, for example, "1".

The POS system 1 can be installed in a variety of stores, such as supermarkets, home improvement centers, convenience stores, and various supply stores. The store controller 10 stores various information necessary for transactions, such as a product master. The product master is a file that stores product information such as product identification information (e.g., JAN (Japanese Article Number) code), product name, and sales price for each product. The product master also includes product identification information for products that require weighing (products to be weighed), product names, and unit prices of the products to be weighed. In addition to the product master, the store controller 10 also stores various information such as inventory status, sales history, and deposit and withdrawal records. The store controller 10 may also store customer membership information.

The monitoring device 11 is a device that allows a store clerk to monitor the POS terminal 20. Specifically, the monitoring device 11 is capable of displaying the status of the POS terminal 20 (operation mode, processing status, etc.) and controlling the POS terminal 20. In the POS system 1, a store clerk can be assigned to the monitoring device 11 and monitor the POS terminal 20 by that store clerk.

The POS terminal device 20 is a register that registers products and performs settlement. The POS terminal device 20 is capable of accepting settlement-related operations from customers and performing settlement processing. Product registration may be performed by a store clerk or by the customer.

The POS system 1 may also include a clerk terminal carried by a clerk. The clerk terminal can display the status of the POS terminal device 20 (operation mode, processing status, etc.) and control the POS terminal device 20. The clerk terminal can also receive notification information from the POS terminal device 20 that a clerk will be called and display that fact.

(Installation example of POS terminal device 20)
Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the installation of the POS terminal 20. Fig. 2(A) is a perspective view of the POS terminal 20 as seen from the customer side. Fig. 2(B) is a perspective view of the POS terminal 20 as seen from the store clerk side. As shown in Fig. 2(A), a counter is placed on the right side of the POS terminal 20 as seen from the customer side. Although not shown in the figure, a counter is also placed on the left side of the POS terminal 20 in Fig. 2(A). In other words, counters are placed on both sides of the POS terminal 20. A shopping basket can be placed on the counter.

The POS terminal device 20 also includes a sign pole 220. The sign pole 220 includes a light-emitting unit. The light-emitting unit of the sign pole 220 is, for example, a lamp or an LED (light emitting diode), and can be lit in a predetermined color or in a predetermined lighting pattern. Depending on the lighting pattern of the sign pole 220, it indicates that the POS terminal device 20 is in use or issues a warning. The sign pole 220 is provided facing upwards, so that even store staff who are not near the POS terminal device 20 can recognize the lighting pattern.

(Example of configuration of POS terminal device 20)
Next, the configuration of the POS terminal 20 will be described with reference to FIGS.
Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the POS terminal device 20. In Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the same parts are given the same reference numerals.

Below, an example of the configuration of the POS terminal device 20 shown in FIG. 3 will be described with reference to FIG. 2. The POS terminal device 20 comprises a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 202, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 203, a hard disk 204, a customer display unit 205, a customer scanner unit 206, a card payment unit 208, a change machine 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, a communication unit 215, and a camera 216. These can communicate with each other via a bus.

The CPU 201 is a central processing unit that reads and executes various programs stored in the ROM 202 to control the operation of the POS terminal 20. The various programs include a product sales data processing program according to this embodiment.
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 readable and writable 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. This information includes, for example, registration information (registration data) generated during the registration process to register products, and settlement information generated during the settlement process to settle (pay) the registered products (purchased products).

The hard disk 204 stores various information. For example, the hard disk 204 stores the image captured by the camera 216 (e.g., video). For example, the hard disk 204 may store various programs, such as a product sales data processing program 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 display unit 205 is a touch display for customers. The customer display unit 205 displays various information to customers and receives 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 read codes (barcodes, two-dimensional codes, etc.) printed on gift certificates (gift certificates, coupons, preferential coupons) and various cards (e.g., membership cards, point cards, etc.). Note that product registration is not limited to registration by reading codes by the customer-side scanner unit 206. For example, a preset key (a button for ordering a product) corresponding to a product may be displayed on the customer-side display unit 205, and the product may be registered by operating (pressing) the preset key by the customer.

The card payment unit 208 is a payment mechanism that uses 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 the purchase. The card recognition unit can also recognize information to be used in settling the purchase, for example, when using points held on a point card. The card recognition unit can also recognize information that is not used in settling the purchase, for example, when adding points to a point card.

The card payment unit 208 in this embodiment includes a card recognition unit, a display unit, and an operation unit, but is not limited to these and may include at least a card recognition unit. The card recognition unit in this embodiment may be compatible with contact cards (IC cards, magnetic cards) or non-contact cards (IC cards).

The change machine 209 (cash settlement unit) is a cash settlement mechanism, and has an input port for banknotes and coins, and an output port for banknotes and coins. The change machine 209 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 side, and accepts various operations and cash insertion from customers. The change machine 209 has a sensor that detects banknotes and coins inserted into the input port. The sensor detects that banknotes or coins have been inserted into the input port, and detects the number of each denomination.

The clerk display unit 210 is a touch display for the clerk. The clerk display unit 210 displays various information to the clerk and accepts various inputs from the clerk. The clerk display unit 210 displays preset keys (buttons for ordering products) corresponding to products, and products are registered by the clerk operating (pressing) the preset keys.

The key operation unit 211 is made up of various keys (hardware keys, buttons). The key operation unit 211 accepts various inputs from the store clerk. Specifically, the key operation unit 211 includes a mode switching button, a collective switching button, and an accounting-only mode switching button. The mode switching button is a button for switching the operation mode. The collective switching button is a button for collectively switching the operation mode of each POS terminal device 20 by operating a specific POS terminal device 20 (for example, a POS terminal device 20 to which the store manager or the like is logged in). The accounting-only mode switching button is a button for switching to the "accounting-only mode" described below.

The mode switching button is a button that can switch the destination mode in a predetermined order each time it is pressed. This order is preset, for example, as normal mode → full self-service mode → checkout only mode → normal mode →... For this reason, to switch from normal mode to checkout only mode, the store clerk must press the mode switching button twice.

The button for switching modes is not limited to a hard key (mechanical key) such as a mode switching button, but may be a selection button (soft key) displayed on the store clerk display unit 210. For example, this selection button may display multiple buttons corresponding to the destination mode. Specifically, if the current mode is normal mode, a button for switching to the checkout-only mode and a button for switching to the full self-service mode may be displayed. This makes it possible to switch modes with a single touch. In other words, the store clerk does not need to press a button multiple times, but only needs to press the button for the mode to be switched to. However, the selection button displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 may be a single button, as in the case of a mode switching button, and may be a button that switches to the destination mode in a predetermined order each time it is pressed.

In principle, the button for switching modes is displayed on the clerk-side display unit 210, but it may also be displayed on the customer-side display unit 205. For example, if it is determined that a clerk is clearly on the customer side, it is also possible to display the button on the customer-side display unit 205. Examples of situations in which a clerk is clearly on the customer side include when the customer-side scanner unit 206 is used to transition to a maintenance screen exclusively for clerks, or when the customer-side display unit 205 is operated to transition to a maintenance screen exclusively for clerks.

The store clerk scanner unit 212 is a scanner unit for store clerks, and optically reads various types of 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.

Note that product registration is not limited to registration by reading a code using the store clerk's scanner unit 212. For example, a key corresponding to a product (e.g., XX newspaper) may be placed on the key operation unit 211, and the product may be registered by the store clerk operating (pressing) the key.

The printing unit 213 prints and outputs various media (receipts, bills, etc.). The printing unit 213 can change the direction of the media issuing port. Specifically, the printing unit 213 has a rotatable mechanism and is configured so that the media issuing port faces from the store clerk side to the customer side, and from the customer side to the store clerk side. The orientation of the media issuing port may be changeable manually, or may be changeable automatically when the operating mode is switched. The printing unit 213 may be equipped with a sensor that detects whether the orientation of the printing issuing port is correct.

The audio output unit 214 outputs audio. For example, the audio output unit 214 outputs audio guidance, warning sounds, etc. The audio guidance and warning sounds are related to product registration and payment.
The communication unit 215 is an interface for sending and receiving information to and from other devices (the store controller 10, the monitoring device 11, and other POS terminal devices 20).

The camera 216 is attached to the upper right of the customer display unit 205 when viewed from the customer side. The camera 216 is a camera that continuously captures moving images or still images. A CCD (charge coupled device) camera or a CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) camera can be used for the camera 216. The camera 216 captures the operation status of the customer at the time of payment. Specifically, the camera 216 captures the bills and coins held by the customer, the change machine 209, hand movements, etc. The camera 216 also captures the operation status of the customer at the time of registering the product. Specifically, the camera 216 can capture the inside (products) of the shopping basket on the counter provided on both sides of the POS terminal device 20, and the operation status of the customer at the time of registration.

(Overview of each operation mode)
Next, the operation modes of the POS terminal 20 will be described. The POS terminal 20 has multiple operation modes. The multiple operation modes are operation modes during normal business (operation modes related to registration processing and settlement processing), and include a normal mode, a checkout-only mode, and a full self-service mode. The POS terminal 20 is controlled to one of the multiple operation modes.

In addition to the above operating modes, there are also other modes such as tally mode, maintenance mode, and training mode. The tally mode is used to tally and inquire about sales and inventory. The maintenance mode is used when store clerks or maintenance personnel perform setup and maintenance work. The training mode is used when new store clerks are trained.

The following mainly describes in detail the normal mode, the checkout only mode, and the full self-service mode. Note that in the following, the POS terminal device 20 operating in the checkout only mode and the POS terminal device 20 operating in the full self-service mode may be collectively referred to as the "self-service register."

(Normal mode)
The normal mode is an operation mode in which product registration by the store clerk (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "product registration") is enabled and product registration by the customer is disabled. In other words, the normal mode is an operation mode in which registration processing by the store clerk is executed without executing registration processing by the customer. In product registration by the store clerk, purchased products are registered using the store clerk scanner unit 212, the store clerk display unit 210, and the key operation unit 211.

In addition, in normal mode, settlement is possible, such as by the customer inserting currency (banknotes and coins) and reading various cards. Specifically, in normal mode, for example, it is possible to accept operations for settlement with cash (inserting currency into the change dispenser 209).

In normal mode, registration information can be sent to other POS terminals 20. Sending registration information to other POS terminals 20 means sending the registration information generated in the registration process to another POS terminal 20 (self-checkout) that can execute the checkout process. The registration information may be sent directly from the POS terminal 20 to the other POS terminal 20, or may be sent indirectly to the other POS terminal 20 via another device such as the store controller 10 or the monitoring device 11. In the following description, the sending and receiving of information between the devices is not described in detail, but the sending and receiving of information between the devices may be direct, or indirect via another device.

In addition, in normal mode, it is possible to issue a receipt. Issuing a receipt means that the registration information generated in the registration process is coded and printed on a print medium (sheet) and output. Another POS terminal device 20 (self-checkout) can obtain the registration information by reading the code on the receipt and perform the payment process.

(Accounting only mode)
The accounting-only mode is an operating mode that enables the reception of registration information from other POS terminals 20, the reading of accounting tickets, and the insertion of coins, and disables product registration by store clerks and customers. Receiving registration information from other POS terminals 20 is, specifically, a function for receiving registration information generated in the registration process of the POS terminal 20 in normal mode.

Reading a receipt ticket means reading the code printed on the receipt ticket. The receipt-only mode is an operating mode in which the terminal does not execute the registration process, but executes the settlement process solely using the registration information generated in another POS terminal device 20. Note that because the receipt-only mode is an operating mode in which the registration process is not executed, i.e., registration information is not generated, sending registration information to other POS terminal devices 20 and issuing receipt tickets are disabled.

(Full selfie mode)
The full self-service mode is an operation mode in which product registration by the customer is enabled. In other words, the full self-service mode is an operation mode that assumes registration processing on the customer's side. In customer product registration, the customer operates the customer-side scanner unit 206 and the customer-side display unit 205 to register purchased products.

In addition, in the full self-service mode, it is possible to enable product registration by the store clerk. In other words, the full self-service mode is an operating mode that assumes registration processing on the customer side, but also allows registration processing on the store clerk side. In the full self-service mode, product registration by the store clerk may be disabled.

Furthermore, the full self-service mode is an operating mode in which the settlement process can be performed at the terminal itself. Specifically, the full self-service mode is an operating mode in which the insertion of coins is enabled, and the sending of registration information to other POS terminal devices 20 and the issuance of accounting tickets are disabled.

Furthermore, like the accounting-only mode, the full self-service mode is an operating mode in which both the reception of registration information from other POS terminal devices 20 and the reading of accounting tickets are enabled. In other words, like the accounting-only mode, in the full self-service mode, the settlement process can be performed using registration information generated in other POS terminal devices 20.

(About enabling and disabling various functions)
In the above description, it has been explained that the various functions (clerk's product registration, customer's product registration, coin insertion, receipt reading, etc.) of the POS terminal 20 are enabled or disabled depending on the operation mode. In other words, it has been explained that the operation mode of the POS terminal 20 is set by enabling or disabling some of all the functions of the POS terminal 20.

However, the POS terminal 20 does not necessarily have to have all the functions as long as the executable functions differ for each operation mode. For example, the POS terminal 20 may obtain a program for implementing the functions required for each operation mode from an external device (e.g., the store controller 10, the monitoring device 11, a server outside the store, etc.) and make it executable, and if it holds a program for implementing functions not required for each operation mode, it may make the program inexecutable (e.g., by deleting it). In this case, the POS terminal 20 may first make all programs inexecutable, regardless of the operation mode to which it is transitioned, and then obtain a program for implementing the functions required in that operation mode from an external device and make it executable.

(Configuration example of monitoring device 11)
Next, the configuration of the monitoring device 11 will be described with reference to FIG.
Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the monitoring device 11. As shown in Fig. 4, the monitoring device 11 includes a CPU 301, a ROM 302, a RAM 303, a hard disk 304, a display unit 305, an audio output unit 306, and a communication unit 307. These can communicate with each other via a bus.

The CPU 301 is a central processing unit that reads out and executes various programs stored in the ROM 302 to control the operation of the monitoring device 11. The various programs include a product sales data processing program according to this embodiment.
The ROM 302 is a read-only memory, and stores various types of information used by the CPU 301, including programs.

RAM 303 is a readable and writable memory that stores various information. For example, RAM 303 displays information acquired from the outside (e.g., registration information and settlement information acquired from POS terminal device 20) and information generated during processing.

The hard disk 304 stores various information. For example, the hard disk 304 stores registration information and settlement information obtained from the POS terminal device 20. For example, instead of the ROM 302, the hard disk 304 may store various programs such as a product sales data processing program executed by the CPU 301. Also, instead of the RAM 303, the hard disk 304 may store information obtained from outside and information generated during processing.

The display unit 305 is a touch display that displays various information to the store clerk and receives various inputs from the store clerk.
The audio output unit 306 outputs audio.
The communication unit 307 is an interface for transmitting and receiving information to and from other devices (the store controller 10 and the POS terminal device 20).

(Customer support by store staff)
Here, in the self-checkout (full self-service mode or self-checkout mode), support for customers is provided by store staff (hereinafter referred to as "customer support"). Specifically, customer support is, for example, the store staff supporting the customer in operations related to product registration and checkout. Customer support also includes operations performed by the store staff to resolve errors that occur in the POS terminal device 20. Examples of various errors include an error in which the receipt paper has run out, a state in which the change is near full (the number of coins is close to the number that can be stored in a specified storage section of the change dispenser 209 (the allowable limit number of coins), and a state in which the change is near end (the number of coins in the storage section is low).

Even if there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the self-checkout, if there is no error in the POS terminal device 20 operated by the customer, the store clerk has no opportunity to talk to the customer. This can make the store clerk hesitant to talk to the customer. In particular, new or shy store clerks may not be able to provide appropriate support to the customer.

Therefore, in this embodiment, if a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the system is encountered, an opportunity is created for the store clerk to talk to the customer. The functional configuration of the POS system 1 according to this embodiment is described below.

(Functional configuration of POS system 1 in full self-service mode)
First, a description will be given of the functional configuration of the full-self-service specification of the POS system 1. In this embodiment, the POS system 1 can be any one of a plurality of specifications including the full-self-service specification and the semi-self-service specification described below.

The full self-service specification is a specification in which the POS terminal device 20 operates in a full self-service mode, and the monitoring device 11 monitors customer operations by the store clerk. The POS system 1 includes a customer device and a store clerk device. The customer device is realized by the POS terminal device 20 in the full self-service mode.

In the customer device, at least one of product registration and product payment is performed by the customer. The customer device includes a mode control unit and an alarm unit. The mode control unit operates in one of a number of operating modes, including at least an operating mode in which product payment is performed by the customer. In the full self-service version, the mode control unit controls the POS terminal device 20 to the full self-service mode. In the semi-self-service version, which will be described later, the mode control unit controls the POS terminal device 20 to the payment-only mode.

The clerk device is operated by a clerk. The clerk device is realized by the monitoring device 11. The clerk device has a reception unit. The reception unit can receive input from the clerk to issue an error notification (hereinafter referred to as a "call notification") on the POS terminal device 20 in full self-service mode. Specifically, the reception unit displays a call notification button 710a (see FIG. 7) for receiving the input, and receives pressing of the call notification button 710a. For example, when there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the device, the clerk presses the call notification button 710a. When the call notification button 710a is pressed, the monitoring device 11 transmits a notification instruction to the POS terminal device 20 to issue a call notification.

Here, the notification unit of the customer device issues an error notification when an error occurs. When an error notification is issued, for example, the POS terminal device 20 is locked so that the customer cannot operate it. The error notification includes various types of notifications (notification that an error has occurred, the type of error that has occurred, notification that a store clerk is being called, etc.).

The notification unit issues a voice-prompted notification when the monitoring device 11 receives a notification input. Specifically, when the POS terminal device 20 receives a notification instruction from the monitoring device 11, the notification unit issues a voice-prompted notification. A voice-prompted notification is, for example, a notification that makes it appear as if an error state exists, even though there is actually no error state. A voice-prompted notification is similar to an error notification, and specifically includes various notifications (notifications that an error has occurred, the type of error that has occurred, that a store clerk is being called, etc.) that prevent the customer from performing any operation. The notification unit issues a voice-prompted notification by voice or display.

The notification unit may also light up the sign pole 220 in a predetermined lighting pattern to provide a voice notification. The predetermined lighting pattern includes, for example, a normal lighting pattern for notifications and a special lighting pattern. The special lighting pattern is, for example, a lighting pattern that is difficult for a customer to notice when there is a possibility that the customer is committing fraud.

The notification to be called does not have to be the same as the error notification. For example, the notification to be called is not limited to putting the device into a locked state, but may be a notification that the customer can operate. The notification to be called is not limited to automatically calling a store clerk, but may be a notification that urges the customer to call a store clerk, such as "Please call a store clerk." The notification to be called may also be a notification that indicates a preliminary stage of an error, such as "The paper will run out soon."

The errors to be notified in the voice-call notification are preset. For example, a communication error is preset as the error to be notified in the voice-call notification. Therefore, when the voice-call notification button 710a is pressed on the monitoring device 11, the notification unit will issue a voice-call notification indicating a communication error. Note that the preset error may be changeable by the operation of a store clerk. That is, for example, the preset error is not limited to a communication error, and can also be changed to an error related to the change machine (nearly full change).

The condition for terminating the warning message is, for example, the POS terminal device 20 accepting input of specific information from a store clerk. The input of specific information is, for example, input of a store clerk code, input of login information, input of a password, etc. Here, the condition for terminating the error message differs from the condition for terminating the warning message in that in addition to inputting the specific information, the error state must also be resolved. On the other hand, the condition for terminating the warning message does not require the error state to be resolved, since there is no error state, and only the input of the specific information.

The reception unit is realized by the CPU 301 of the monitoring device 11. That is, the CPU 301 of the monitoring device 11 executes a predetermined program (a product sales data processing program) to realize the function of the reception unit.

The mode control unit and the notification unit are realized by the CPU 201 of the POS terminal device 20. That is, the CPU 201 of the POS terminal device 20 executes a predetermined program (product sales data processing program) to realize the functions of the mode control unit and the notification unit.

(Operation in full self-operation mode)
Next, the operation in the full self-operation specification will be described with reference to FIG.
Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram for explaining an outline of the operation in the full self-service mode. Specifically, Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of processing in the full self-service mode and the actions of people (store clerks and customers). As shown in the upper part of Fig. 5, in the full self-service mode, the POS terminal 20 accepts operations by the customer using the customer-side display unit 205 and the customer-side scanner unit 206, and the customer registers the purchased items by himself.

While the customer is registering the purchased items, the POS terminal 20 displays the total price of the purchased items, etc. on the customer display unit 205. Then, when the POS terminal 20 completes the registration of the purchased items and receives a press of the registration completion key (an instruction to start settlement), it performs the settlement process as shown in the lower part of Figure 5. In the settlement process, the customer checks the total price of the purchased items displayed on the customer display unit 205 and performs settlement. Specifically, the customer inserts cash into the change dispenser 209 or operates the card payment unit 208 to perform settlement. Thus, in full self-service mode, the POS terminal 20 performs the registration process and settlement process according to the customer's operation.

In addition, in the fully self-service version, a store clerk is stationed at the monitoring device 11 and monitors customers. The store clerk also handles errors and provides support to customers who appear suspicious or confused about how to operate the machine.

(Notification process in full self-driving specifications)
Fig. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the error notification and voice notification processing in the full self-service specification. The processes performed by the monitoring device 11 and the POS terminal device 20 shown in Fig. 6 are constantly started (periodically at very short time intervals) in each device. In Fig. 6, the monitoring device 11 judges whether or not the voice notification button 710a (see Fig. 7) has been pressed (step S601).

If the monitoring device 11 does not receive a press of the voice notification button 710a (step S601: NO), the monitoring device 11 ends the series of processes. If the monitoring device 11 receives a press of the voice notification button 710a (step S601: YES), the monitoring device 11 sends a notification instruction to the POS terminal device 20 to perform a voice notification (step S602), and ends the series of processes.

The POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode determines whether an error has been detected (step S603). If no error is detected (step S603: NO), the POS terminal 20 proceeds to step S605. If an error is detected (step S603: YES), the POS terminal 20 issues an error notification according to the detected error and stops operation (step S604).

The POS terminal 20 then determines whether or not it has received an alert instruction from the monitoring device 11 (step S605). If it has not received an alert instruction from the monitoring device 11 (step S605: NO), the POS terminal 20 proceeds to step S607. If it has received an alert instruction from the monitoring device 11 (step S605: YES), the POS terminal 20 issues a voice-call alert and stops operation (step S606). In the voice-call alert, the POS terminal 20 displays, for example, a voice-call alert screen 800 (see FIG. 8) indicating a communication error.

The POS terminal 20 then determines whether an error or voice notification is being issued (step S607). If an error or voice notification is not being issued (step S607: NO), the POS terminal 20 ends the series of processes. If an error or voice notification is being issued (step S607: YES), the POS terminal 20 determines whether an operation to end the notification has been performed (step S608). For example, an operation to end the notification is an operation to input a clerk code or login information when ending a voice notification, and an operation to end an error notification includes these inputs as well as an operation to resolve the error state. The POS terminal 20 waits until an operation to end the notification is performed (step S608: NO), and if an operation to end the notification is performed (step S608: YES), the POS terminal 20 ends the error or voice notification (step S609) and ends the series of processes.

(Screen example for full self-service version)
Next, examples of screens in the full self-service mode will be described with reference to Figures 7 and 8. Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a monitoring screen 700 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. As shown in Figure 7, the monitoring screen 700 is a screen including a status display 701 and function buttons 710 that are displayed corresponding to each of the three POS terminals 20 in full self-service mode. The function buttons 710 include a voice notification button 710a, a journal switching button 710b, and a Web camera button 710c.

In FIG. 7, the status display 701 corresponding to the POS terminal 20 with register number 1 indicates that it is waiting. The status display 701 corresponding to the POS terminal 20 with register number 2 indicates that it is being settled. The status display 701 corresponding to the POS terminal 20 with register number 3 indicates that it is being registered.

The warning button 710a is a button that accepts a warning input to report an error (a warning). For example, if a store clerk detects a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the machine, and the warning button 710a is pressed by the store clerk, a warning screen 800 shown in FIG. 8 is displayed on the customer display unit 205 of the corresponding POS terminal device 20.

In the figure, the voice notification button 710a can accept the designation of the POS terminal device 20 and the instruction to issue a voice notification with one touch, but this is not limited to this and it may be configured to accept multiple touches. Specifically, for example, a button that accepts the execution of a voice notification may be displayed, and after the button (first touch) is pressed, the designation of the POS terminal device 20 that will issue the voice notification (second touch) may be accepted.

The journal switch button 710b is a button that accepts switching to a display screen for journal information. When the journal switch button 710b is pressed, the corresponding POS terminal device 20 switches to the journal screen 900 shown in FIG. 9. The web camera button 710c is a button that switches to an image screen captured by the camera 216. When the web camera button 710c is pressed, the corresponding POS terminal device 20 switches to the image screen 1100 shown in FIG. 11.

Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a call-out notification screen 800 displayed on a POS terminal device 20 in full self-service mode. The call-out notification screen 800 indicates a communication error. The call-out notification screen 800 also indicates that a store clerk is being called, or that the customer should wait until the store clerk arrives. When the store clerk arrives at the POS terminal device 20, he or she can speak to the customer or visually check for any fraudulent activity, under the pretext of a communication error. Furthermore, when a store clerk code or login information is entered on the call-out notification screen 800, the display of the call-out notification screen 800 is cancelled, and the display returns to the original screen (for example, the registration screen or the checkout screen).

Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a journal screen 900 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. Note that in Figure 9, the journal of the POS terminal 20 with register number 3 (for example, POS terminal 20-3) is explained. In Figure 9, the journal screen 900 includes a register number display area 901, an operation display area 902, a status display area 903, a journal display area 904, and function buttons 710.

The register number display area 901 is an area that displays the register number of the POS terminal 20. The operation display area 902 is an area that displays operations on the POS terminal 20 and messages displayed on the POS terminal 20. The status display area 903 is an area that displays the current status of the POS terminal 20 (registering, checking out, waiting) (for example, registering).

The journal display area 904 is an area that displays the operation details of the POS terminal device 20, registered products, various error messages, etc. The function buttons 710 include a voice notification button 710a, a web camera button 710c, a log search button 710d, a change information button 710e, a notification cancellation button 710f, and a start screen button 710g.

The functions of the voice notification button 710a and the web camera button 710c are the same as those in FIG. 7. The log search button 710d is a button that accepts a search for past journals by inputting, for example, a specific keyword or date and time, and displays the past journals. The change information button 710e is a button that accepts switching to the display of change information of the change machine 209 (for example, information regarding the near-full state or near-end state).

The alarm cancel button 710f is a button that accepts the cancellation of the voice-call alarm. In this embodiment, when a standby POS terminal device 20 is set to a voice-call alarm, the alarm cancel button 710f can be pressed (enabled). On the other hand, when a POS terminal device 20 is set to a voice-call alarm during registration processing or settlement processing, the alarm cancel button 710f cannot be pressed (disabled), and a store clerk goes to the POS terminal device 20 that has been set to a voice-call alarm to cancel the voice-call alarm.

The start screen button 710g is a button that accepts returning the screen of the POS terminal device 20 to the start screen (remote operation). When the register number display area 901 is pressed on the journal screen 900, the journal details screen is displayed. Note that on the monitoring screen 700 shown in FIG. 7, it is possible to display various buttons (log search button 710d, change information button 710e, alarm cancel button 710f, and start screen button 710g) that are not shown.

Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a details screen 1000 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. As shown in Figure 10, the details screen 1000 includes a journal details display area 1001, a display switch button 1002, and function buttons 710. The journal details display area 1001 is an area that displays details such as the operation content of the POS terminal 20-3, registered products, and each error message. The journal details display area 1001 also changes text color and background color according to the current status of the POS terminal 20-3 being displayed. For example, the journal details display area 1001 is displayed in a background color that corresponds to the current status, such as registration in progress, settlement in progress, waiting, error notification, and voice notification.

The display switch button 1002 is a button that accepts switching to the details screen 1000 of the POS terminal device 20 indicated by the displayed number. The display switch button 1002 is displayed in a text color and background color that correspond to the current situation, such as an error notification or a voice notification. In Figures 7, 9, and 11, when the Web camera button 710c is pressed, the screen transitions to the image capture screen 1100 shown in Figure 11.

Figure 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an image screen 1100 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. As shown in Figure 11, the image screen 1100 includes an image display area 1101, a display switch button 1002, and a function button 710. The image display area 1101 shows an image captured by the camera 216. For example, a store clerk looks at the image display area 1101 and presses the call notification button 710a if there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the device. This causes a call notification to be issued on the POS terminal device 20 (POS terminal device 20 number 3 in the figure), creating an opportunity for the store clerk to talk to the customer.

(Functional configuration of the POS system 1 in semi-self-service mode)
Next, a functional configuration of the POS system 1 in semi-self-service specifications will be described. The semi-self-service specifications are specifications in which the clerk device is realized by a POS terminal device 20 in normal mode, and the customer device is realized by a POS terminal device 20 in a transaction-only mode. In the following, in the semi-self-service specifications, the POS terminal device 20 in normal mode may be referred to as the "registered POS terminal device 20a," and the POS terminal device 20 in the transaction-only mode may be referred to as the "payment POS terminal device 20b, 20c."

In the semi-self-service version, the mode control unit and the notification unit are realized by the CPU 201 of the checkout POS terminal devices 20b and 20c. That is, the CPU 201 of the checkout POS terminal devices 20b and 20c executes a predetermined program (product sales data processing program) to realize the functions of the mode control unit and the notification unit. Note that the customer device is not limited to being realized by the checkout POS terminal devices 20b and 20c, and may be realized by a dedicated device for performing checkout.

In the semi-self-service version, the reception unit is realized by the CPU 201 of the registered POS terminal device 20a. That is, the CPU 201 of the registered POS terminal device 20a executes a specific program (product sales data processing program) to realize the functions of the reception unit. Note that the store clerk device is not limited to being realized by the registered POS terminal device 20a, and may be realized by a dedicated device for registering products.

The reception unit can receive from the store clerk an alert input (e.g., pressing the alert button 1420a, 1420b in FIG. 14) for issuing a call alert at the settlement POS terminal devices 20b, 20c. For example, when there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the device, the store clerk presses the alert button 1420 (alert button 1420a, 1420b). When the alert button 1420 is pressed, the registered POS terminal device 20a sends an alert instruction to issue a call alert to the POS terminal device 20 in the settlement-only mode (settlement POS terminal device 20b).

Here, the POS terminal device 20 is capable of accepting notification input depending on the operating mode in which it is operating. Specifically, the POS terminal device 20 is capable of accepting notification input only when it is controlled in normal mode. In other words, when the POS terminal device 20 is controlled in full self-service mode or checkout-only mode, it does not accept pressing of the voice notification button 1420. In other words, the POS terminal device 20 is capable of accepting pressing of the voice notification button 1420 depending on the operating mode.

The notification unit also issues a voice notification when the registered POS terminal device 20a accepts a notification input. Specifically, when the voice notification button 1420 is pressed, the registered POS terminal device 20a sends a notification instruction to the settlement POS terminal device 20b. The settlement POS terminal device 20b receives the notification instruction from the registered POS terminal device 20a. When the notification instruction is received, the notification unit issues a voice notification. An error indicated by the voice notification is, for example, a communication error.

(Semi-self operation)
Next, the operation in the semi-self-operation mode will be described with reference to FIG.
Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram outlining the operation of the semi-self-service specification. Specifically, Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the process flow and the actions of people (store clerks, customers) in the semi-self-service specification. Fig. 12 explains the case where the POS terminal 20-1 is in normal mode (registration POS terminal 20a) and the POS terminals 20-2 and 20-3 are in accounting-only mode (payment POS terminals 20b and 20c).

As shown in FIG. 12(A), the registration POS terminal device 20a allows the store clerk to register the products purchased by the customer. Also, while the store clerk is registering products at the registration POS terminal device 20a, the settlement POS terminal devices 20b and 20c are in a standby state.

Then, when the registration of the purchased items is completed and the registered POS terminal device 20a receives a press of a settlement start button (e.g., a subtotal button), it performs a settlement process as shown in FIG. 12 (B). In the settlement process, the customer checks the total amount of the purchased items displayed on the customer display unit 205 and performs settlement. Specifically, the customer performs settlement by inserting cash into the change machine 209 or by operating the card settlement unit 208.

In this way, in normal mode, the registered POS terminal device 20a can execute the settlement process through operation by the customer. Furthermore, the registered POS terminal device 20a can accept the selection of a settlement type (payment method) from the customer and the insertion of cash into the change machine 209 before the registration process is completed. For example, the registered POS terminal device 20a may be configured to accept the insertion of cash into the change machine 209 when a product is registered, i.e., when the registration data is displayed and output.

The registered POS terminal device 20a can register the items purchased by the next customer even before the customer has completed the payment (even before the change has been taken out or the receipt has been printed). In other words, the registered POS terminal device 20a can register the items purchased by the next customer while the payment is being processed on its own device. Also, the store clerk may not be present while the customer is paying. In other words, the store clerk may have finished serving the customer while the customer is paying.

When the registration process is completed by the store clerk, the registration POS terminal device 20a can also transmit registration information to the settlement POS terminal devices 20b and 20c, as shown in FIG. 12(C). For example, the registration POS terminal device 20a accepts the designation of one of the settlement POS terminal devices 20b and 20c (e.g., the settlement POS terminal device 20b) from the store clerk. Alternatively, the registration POS terminal device 20a accepts the issuance of a bill to be read by the settlement POS terminal devices 20b and 20c.

When the settlement POS terminal device 20b receives the registration information from the registration POS terminal device 20a or reads the code on the bill, it displays the total amount of the purchased items on the customer display unit 205. Then, as shown in FIG. 12(C), the customer moves to the settlement POS terminal device 20b, checks the total amount of the purchased items displayed on the customer display unit 205 of the settlement POS terminal device 20b, and makes the payment. Specifically, the customer inserts cash into the change dispenser 209 of the settlement POS terminal device 20b, or operates the card payment unit 208 to make the payment.

(Notification process in semi-self-driving mode)
Fig. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the error notification and voice notification processing in the semi-self-service specification. Note that the processes performed by the registration POS terminal 20a and the settlement POS terminal 20b shown in Fig. 13 are constantly started (periodically at very short time intervals) in each device. In Fig. 13, the registration POS terminal 20a judges whether or not the voice notification button 1420 (see Fig. 14) has been pressed (step S1301).

If the registered POS terminal device 20a does not accept the pressing of the voice notification button 1420 (step S1301: NO), the series of processes ends. If the registered POS terminal device 20a accepts the pressing of the voice notification button 1420 (step S1301: YES), the registered POS terminal device 20a sends a notification instruction to the settlement POS terminal device 20b to make a voice notification (step S1302), and the series of processes ends.

The checkout POS terminal 20b determines whether an error has been detected (step S1303). If an error has not been detected (step S1303: NO), the checkout POS terminal 20b proceeds to step S1305. If an error has been detected (step S1303: YES), the checkout POS terminal 20b issues an error notification according to the detected error and stops operation (step S1304).

The settlement POS terminal device 20b then determines whether or not an alert instruction has been received from the registered POS terminal device 20a (step S1305). If an alert instruction has not been received from the registered POS terminal device 20a (step S1305: NO), the settlement POS terminal device 20b proceeds to step S1307. If an alert instruction has been received from the registered POS terminal device 20a (step S1305: YES), the settlement POS terminal device 20b issues a voice notification and stops operation (step S1306). In the voice notification, for example, a voice notification screen indicating a communication error is displayed.

Then, the settlement POS terminal device 20b judges whether an error notification or a voice notification is being issued (step S1307). If an error notification or a voice notification is not being issued (step S1307: NO), the settlement POS terminal device 20b ends the series of processes. If an error notification is being issued (step S1307: YES), the settlement POS terminal device 20b judges whether an operation to end the notification has been performed (step S1308). For example, an operation to end the notification is an operation to input a clerk code or login information when ending a voice notification, and an operation to resolve the error state is included in addition to these inputs when ending an error notification. The settlement POS terminal device 20b waits until an operation to end the notification is performed (step S1308: NO), and if an operation to end the notification is performed (step S1308: YES), the settlement POS terminal device 20b ends the error notification or voice notification (step S1309) and ends the series of processes.

(Example of a screen for semi-self-service)
Next, a screen example in the semi-self-service mode will be described with reference to FIG.
Fig. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 of the registered POS terminal device 20a in the semi-self-service version. In Fig. 14, a registered product display 1401 shows the product most recently registered by the store clerk. A registered product list display 1402 shows a list of products registered by the store clerk. A total price display 1403 shows the total price of the products registered by the store clerk.

The preset keys 1404 include product display keys 1404a each showing a number of products. The product display keys 1404a are pressed by the store clerk to accept the registration of the product corresponding to the display. The preset keys 1404 also include a type change key 1404b that accepts switching between types such as vegetables, fruits, and meat. In FIG. 14, the type change key 1404b shows a state in which the type of vegetable has been pressed. When the type change key 1404b showing fruits or meat is operated, it switches to the product display key corresponding to the operated type change key 1404b.

The mode display 1405 shows the current mode of the POS terminal 20-2 (for example, checkout only mode). The mode display 1405 includes a call-out notification button 1420a. The call-out notification button 1420a is a button that accepts notification input for notifying the user of an error. For example, if the customer operating the POS terminal 20-2 seems suspicious or is confused about how to operate it, when a store clerk presses the call-out notification button 1420a, a screen equivalent to the call-out notification screen 800 shown in FIG. 8 is displayed on the customer-side display unit 205 of the POS terminal 20-2.

The mode display 1406 indicates the current mode of the POS terminal 20-3 (e.g., transaction-only mode). The mode display 1406 includes a call-out notification button 1420b. The call-out notification button 1420b is a button that accepts notification input for reporting an error. For example, if the customer operating the POS terminal 20-3 seems suspicious or is confused about how to operate it, when a store clerk presses the call-out notification button 1420b, a screen similar to the call-out notification screen 800 shown in FIG. 8 is displayed on the customer-side display unit 205 of the POS terminal 20-3 in transaction-only mode.

In the figure, the voice notification buttons 1420a and 1420b can accept the designation of the POS terminal device 20 and the instruction to issue a voice notification with one touch, but this is not limited to this and may be accepted with multiple touches. Specifically, for example, a button that accepts the execution of a voice notification may be displayed, and after the button (first touch) is pressed, the designation of the POS terminal device 20 that will issue the voice notification (second touch) may be accepted.

The subtotal button 1407 is a button that accepts the completion of product registration. When registration of all products is completed, the store clerk presses the subtotal button 1407. The receipt button 1408 is a button that accepts the issuance of a receipt. When settlement is to be made at another POS terminal device 20, the store clerk presses the receipt button 1408.

The register designation button 1409 and the register designation button 1410 are buttons that accept the designation of the settlement POS terminal device 20b, 20c to which the registration information will be sent. The register designation button 1409 is a button that accepts the designation of POS terminal device 20-2 as the destination to which the registration information will be sent. When the register designation button 1409 is pressed, the registration information is sent to POS terminal device 20-2, and the settlement will be made at POS terminal device 20-2. The register designation button 1410 is a button that accepts the designation of POS terminal device 20-3 as the destination to which the registration information will be sent. When the register designation button 1410 is pressed, the registration information is sent to POS terminal device 20-3, and the settlement will be made at POS terminal device 20-3.

As described above, in the POS system 1 according to this embodiment, the clerk device (e.g., the monitoring device 11 or the registered POS terminal device 20a) accepts input from the clerk for issuing a voice-call notification (e.g., pressing the voice-call notification button 710a, 1420), and the customer device (self-checkout) issues a voice-call notification. This makes it possible for the customer device to appear to be in an error state even when it is not. This allows the customer to call the clerk or for the clerk to visit a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused by the operation, creating an opportunity for the clerk to speak to the customer. In addition, the clerk can press the voice-call notification button and immediately head to the customer device, allowing them to quickly respond to the customer. This helps even new or shy clerks to provide appropriate support to customers.

In addition, in this embodiment, the monitoring device 11 is used as the clerk device. This allows the clerk monitoring the monitoring device 11 to create an opportunity to talk to a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the device. Therefore, even a new or shy clerk can be assisted in providing appropriate support to customers in a fully self-service environment.

In addition, in this embodiment, the clerk device is a POS terminal device 20 in normal mode that registers products. This allows the clerk who registers the product to have an opportunity to talk to a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the device. Therefore, even a new or shy clerk can be assisted in providing appropriate support to customers in a semi-self-service environment.

In addition, in this embodiment, notification input can be accepted depending on the operation mode of the POS terminal device 20. This allows the POS terminal device 20 to accept notification input when in normal mode, and not accept notification input when in checkout-only mode or full self-service mode. Therefore, notification input can be accepted depending on the operation mode of the POS terminal device 20 when a store clerk is on duty, which helps store clerks provide appropriate support to customers in semi-self-service specifications.

In addition, in this embodiment, the customer device is a self-checkout register (a POS terminal device 20 in checkout-only mode or a POS terminal device 20 in full self-checkout mode) where at least the payment for merchandise is made by the customer. This allows for a call-out notification to be made at the self-checkout register. This creates an opportunity for the store clerk to talk to the customer who is making the payment when there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the register. This allows even new or shy store clerks to provide appropriate support to customers at the self-checkout register.

(Modification of the embodiment)
Modifications 1 to 5 of the embodiment will be described below. Note that in the following modifications, the contents described in the above-mentioned embodiment will be omitted as appropriate. It is also possible to have a configuration in which the configurations shown in the above-mentioned embodiment and modifications 1 to 5 are respectively combined. Specifically, a configuration may be used that includes all of the above-mentioned embodiment and modifications 1 to 5, or a configuration may be used that is a combination of the above-mentioned embodiment and modifications 1 to 5.

(Variation 1)
First, a first modified example of the embodiment will be described. In the above-described embodiment, the customer device issues a voice notification indicating a communication error. In addition to or instead of such a configuration, in a first modified example, a configuration will be described in which the customer device issues a voice notification selected according to the urgency level of the error notification.

First, the urgency table 1500 for error notifications will be described with reference to FIG. 15. FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the urgency table 1500 for error notifications. The urgency table 1500 is stored in each POS terminal device 20. As shown in FIG. 15, the urgency table 1500 includes items for the error type and the urgency for error notifications.

The error type may be, for example, an out of paper error, change near end, change near full, time error, communication error, or unscanned error. An out of paper error indicates that the receipt paper has run out. A time error occurs when a certain amount of time has passed since the start of a registration or settlement operation. A communication error occurs when a communication failure occurs that prevents communication with other devices. An unscanned error is, for example, an error in which an item is placed in a basket without being scanned, even though it would normally be placed in after scanning.

Here, a threshold is set for each error. For example, for an out-of-paper error, the threshold is set to several tens of centimeters remaining. The urgency of the error notification is a degree that indicates whether the error type is approaching the error notification threshold. Specifically, the urgency of the error notification is indicated as one of "low," "medium," or "high." The urgency of the error notification of "low" indicates that the error is not close to the error notification threshold, i.e., the urgency is low. The urgency of the error notification of "high" indicates that the error is close to the error notification threshold, i.e., the urgency is high. The urgency of the error notification of "medium" indicates that the error is neither close nor far from the error notification threshold, i.e., the urgency is medium.

For example, in the urgency table 1500 shown in FIG. 15, the error type "out of paper error" has a "high" urgency level regarding error notification. In other words, this indicates that although the error has not yet become an out of paper error, it is approaching an out of paper error.

In addition, in variant 1, the clerk device can receive notification input from the clerk depending on whether the customer device is in an error state or a non-error state. Specifically, when the customer device is in an error state, the clerk device does not receive notification input from the clerk. For example, when the customer device is in an error state, the clerk device may hide the notification button for speaking or disable pressing the button. On the other hand, when the customer device is not in an error state (when the device is in a non-error state), the clerk device receives notification input from the clerk. For example, when the customer device is not in an error state, the clerk device may display the notification button for speaking.

The processing of variant 1 is explained below. In order to explain both the full self-service version and the semi-self-service version together, the processing is mainly performed by the clerk device and the self-checkout register. In the full self-service version, the clerk device is the monitoring device 11, and the self-checkout register is the POS terminal device 20. In the semi-self-service version, the clerk device is the registration POS terminal device 20a, and the self-checkout register is the settlement POS terminal device 20b, 20c.

(Notification process according to modification example 1)
Fig. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the error notification and voice notification processing according to Modification 1. Note that each processing performed by the store clerk device and the self-checkout device shown in Fig. 16 is constantly started (periodically at very short time intervals) by each device.

In FIG. 16, the self-checkout register determines whether or not an error has been detected (step S1601). If it does not detect an error (step S1601: NO), the self-checkout register proceeds to step S1608. If it detects an error (step S1601: YES), the self-checkout register transmits a message to the monitoring device 11 indicating that an error has occurred and the details of the error, including the type of error (step S1602). The self-checkout register then issues an error notification according to the detected error and stops operation (step S1603).

The clerk device determines whether or not an error has been received from the self-checkout (step S1604). If no error has been received (step S1604: NO), the clerk device proceeds to step S1606. If an error has been received (step S1604: YES), the clerk device disables the voice notification button on the POS terminal device 20 that is in an error state (step S1605).

Then, the clerk device judges whether or not it has received a call-out notification button press (step S1606). If the clerk device has not received a call-out notification button press (step S1606: NO), it proceeds to step S1610. If the clerk device has received a call-out notification button press (step S1606: YES), it makes a request to send the urgency of the error notification (step S1607).

The self-checkout determines whether or not it has received a request to send the urgency of the error notification from the store clerk device (step S1608). If it has not received a request to send the urgency of the error notification (step S1608: NO), the self-checkout proceeds to step S1615. If it has received a request to send the urgency of the error notification (step S1608: YES), the self-checkout transmits the urgency of the error notification to the monitoring device 11 (step S1609).

The clerk device determines whether or not it has received an urgency level for the error notification from the self-checkout (step S1610). If it has not received an urgency level for the error notification from the self-checkout (step S1610: NO), the clerk device proceeds to step S1612. If it has received an urgency level for the error notification from the self-checkout (step S1610: YES), the clerk device identifies an error based on the urgency level (step S1611). Specifically, the clerk device identifies an error with a "high" urgency level. The clerk device then displays an error selection screen or the like to prompt the clerk to select an error (step S1612). Note that it is also possible to directly notify the clerk of the error identified based on the urgency level without prompting the clerk to select an error.

Next, the clerk device determines whether an error has been selected (step S1613). If an error has not been selected (step S1613: NO), the clerk device ends the series of processes. If an error has been selected (step S1613: YES), the clerk device transmits an alarm instruction to the self-checkout register to cause it to issue a voice-call alarm (step S1614), and ends the series of processes.

The self-checkout register determines whether or not it has received an alert instruction from the clerk device (step S1615). If it has not received an alert instruction from the clerk device (step S1615: NO), it proceeds to step S1617. If it has received an alert instruction from the clerk device (step S1615: YES), it issues a voice-call alert and stops operation (step S1616). In the voice-call alert, the self-checkout register displays a voice-call alert screen indicating the error selected on the clerk device.

The self-checkout then determines whether an error or prompt notification is being issued (step S1617). If an error or prompt notification is not being issued (step S1617: NO), the self-checkout ends the series of processes. If an error or prompt notification is being issued (step S1617: YES), the self-checkout determines whether an operation to end the notification has been performed (step S1618). For example, an operation to end the notification may involve inputting a store clerk code or login information in the case of ending a prompt notification, and an operation to end an error notification may include these inputs as well as an operation to resolve the error state. The self-checkout waits until an operation to end the notification is performed (step S1618: NO), and if an operation to end the notification is performed (step S1618: YES), the self-checkout ends the error or prompt notification (step S1619), and the series of processes ends.

(Example of a screen in Modification Example 1)
Next, examples of screens in Modification 1 will be described with reference to Figures 17 to 20. In the following, an example of a screen of the monitoring device 11 will be described as an example of a screen of a store clerk device, and an explanation of an example of a screen of the registered POS terminal device 20a will be omitted.

Figure 17 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an error confirmation screen 1700 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. As shown in Figure 17, the error confirmation screen 1700 displays a message urging the user to notify the user of an out-of-paper error. This is based on the fact that, as shown in the urgency table 1500 (see Figure 15), the urgency of error notification for the error type "out of paper" is set to "high."

When the "Yes" button is pressed on the error confirmation screen 1700, the POS terminal device 20 displays the voice notification screen 1800 shown in FIG. 18. On the other hand, when the "No" button is pressed on the error confirmation screen 1700, the screen of the monitoring device 11 transitions to the error selection screen 1900 shown in FIG. 19.

Figure 18 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a call-out notification screen 1800 of variant 1 displayed on a self-checkout register. The call-out notification screen 1800 displays an out-of-paper error. The call-out notification screen 1800 also displays a message that a store clerk is being called, or that the customer should wait until the store clerk arrives. When the store clerk arrives at the POS terminal device 20, he or she can talk to the customer or visually check for any fraudulent activity, under the pretext of changing the paper. When the store clerk code and login information are entered on the call-out notification screen 1800 and the paper is changed, the call-out notification screen 1800 is cleared and the display returns to the original screen.

Figure 19 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an error selection screen 1900 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. As shown in Figure 19, the error selection screen 1900 shows a screen from which various errors can be selected. In this way, the store clerk can select the notification to be issued by the customer himself/herself. For example, if the store clerk selects a communication error, the customer side display unit 205 of the POS terminal device 20 will display the notification screen to be issued (see Figure 8) indicating a communication error.

(Monitoring screen when an error occurs)
Fig. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a monitoring screen 2000 when an error occurs, which is displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. As shown in Fig. 20, the monitoring screen 2000 is a screen that includes a status display 701 and function buttons 710 for each of the three POS terminals 20 in full self mode.

In FIG. 20, the status display 701 corresponding to the POS terminal 20 with register number 1 indicates that it is waiting. The status display 701 corresponding to the POS terminal 20 with register number 2 indicates that it is being settled. The status display 701 corresponding to the POS terminal 20 with register number 3 indicates that it is in a near-end error state.

Because the POS terminal device 20 with register number 3 is in a near-end error state, the notification button 710a for the POS terminal device 20 with register number 3 is grayed out, i.e., disabled. Note that the notification button 710a for the POS terminal device 20 with register number 3 does not have to be displayed on the monitoring screen 2000. In this way, in variant 1, for a POS terminal device 20 in an error state, the error screen is already displayed, so pressing the notification button 710a for the POS terminal device 20 cannot be accepted.

In variant 1, when the store clerk device receives a press of the voice notification button 710a, an error is selected according to the urgency of the error notification and a voice notification is made. Therefore, it is possible to make it appear as if an error has occurred for an error type that is likely to become an error soon, in order to trigger the store clerk to speak to the customer. This makes it possible to prevent the occurrence of the error and to provide appropriate support to the customer.

In addition, in the first variant, the clerk device can accept a press of the call notification button 710a from the clerk depending on whether the customer device is in an error state or a non-error state. This makes it possible to not accept a press of the call notification button 710a when an error state occurs, since it is necessary to resolve the error state and there is an opportunity for the clerk to speak to the customer.

(Variation 2)
Next, we will explain Variation 2. In the above Variation 1, we have explained a configuration in which a call-out notification screen is displayed at the self-checkout when the call-out notification button 710a is pressed. In Variation 2, we will explain a configuration in which a call-out notification screen is displayed depending on the state of the self-checkout when the call-out notification button 710a is pressed.

In variant 2, when the self-checkout register is in a standby state and the notification button 710a is pressed on the store clerk device, the self-checkout register is put into a paused state, i.e., put into a state where it cannot be used by customers. This allows the store clerk to perform maintenance, for example. On the other hand, when the self-checkout register is in a registration or checkout state and the notification button 710a is pressed on the store clerk device, the self-checkout register is made to issue a notification.

The display mode of the voice notification button 710a on the store clerk device when the self-checkout is in a waiting state and the display mode of the voice notification button 710a on the store clerk device when the self-checkout is in a registration or checkout state may be different. For example, the display mode of the voice notification button 710a on the store clerk device when the self-checkout is in a waiting state may be an "emergency lock button."

In this way, in variant 2, when the call notification button 710a is pressed, a call notification is issued at the self-checkout register depending on the state of the self-checkout register. This allows a call notification to be issued while a customer is performing registration or payment operations at the self-checkout register. Also, if the self-checkout register is on standby, a store clerk can press the call notification button 710a to put it into a paused state and perform maintenance on the POS terminal device 20.

(Variation 3)
Next, a description will be given of Modification 3. In the above embodiment, a description has been given of a shopping system in which a customer operates the POS terminal device 20 to register products or to settle a payment. In Modification 3, a description will be given of a shopping system in which a customer operates a customer terminal to register products, and a customer operates the POS terminal device 20 to settle a payment.

In variant 3, the shopping system includes a customer terminal, a cloud server, a settlement device, and a monitoring device 11. The customer terminal is, for example, a smartphone or a tablet terminal. The customer terminal may be a terminal device owned by the customer, or may be a terminal device rented by the store. The customer terminal may be installed in a shopping cart, or may be held by the customer.

The cloud server registers the products scanned by the customer terminal. The settlement device then performs settlement by receiving registration information used for settlement from the cloud server. The settlement device is realized by a POS terminal device 20 in a checkout-only mode or a full self-service mode. However, the settlement device may also be realized by a device dedicated to settlement. In addition, the monitoring device 11 is a device that allows a store clerk to monitor the customer's registration operation and settlement operation.

Below is a brief explanation of the process from registering a product to paying for it in the shopping system.
(1) A customer uses the camera function of a customer terminal to read a product code (e.g., a barcode) attached to a product. When the customer terminal reads the product code, it transmits product code information indicated by the read product code to a cloud server. The customer terminal may transmit the product code information to the cloud server each time the product code is read, or may store the read product code information one by one and transmit the product code information to the cloud server all at once when a settlement start is accepted.
(2) The cloud server stores cart information including cart identification information for identifying a customer (customer terminal). Upon receiving product code information from the customer terminal, the cloud server stores product information corresponding to the product code information in the cart information.
(3) When the customer has completed registering the products to be purchased, he or she presses the checkout start button displayed on the customer terminal. When the customer terminal receives the press of the checkout start button, it displays a checkout code (e.g., a two-dimensional code) that is an encoded version of the cart identification information on the display unit (touch panel) of the customer terminal.
(4) The customer then has the reader of the POS terminal 20 (payment device) read the payment code. After reading the payment code, the POS terminal 20 makes a request to the cloud server to send registration information necessary for payment. The request includes the cart identification information indicated by the read payment code.
(5) When the cloud server receives a request to send registration information from the POS terminal 20, it identifies the cart information using the cart identification information included in the request, and generates registration information. The cloud server then transmits the generated registration information to the POS terminal 20.
(6) When the POS terminal 20 receives the registration information from the cloud server, it starts settlement using the received registration information.

Next, the issuing of a voice notification in Variation 3 will be described. In Variation 3, the clerk device is realized by the monitoring device 11. However, the clerk device may also be realized by a mobile terminal carried by the clerk. In Variation 3, the reception unit is realized by the CPU 301 of the monitoring device 11. That is, the CPU 301 of the monitoring device 11 executes a specified program (product sales data processing program) to realize the function of the reception unit.

In addition, in the third variant, the customer device is realized by the customer terminal when the product is registered. The notification unit is realized by the CPU of the customer terminal. That is, the CPU 201 of the POS terminal device 20 of the customer terminal executes a predetermined program (product sales data processing program) to realize the function of the notification unit.

The customer device is realized by the POS terminal device 20 at the time of payment. The mode control unit and the notification unit are realized by the CPU 201 of the POS terminal device 20 in the accounting-only mode or the full self-service mode. That is, the CPU 201 of the POS terminal device 20 in the accounting-only mode or the full self-service mode executes a specific program (product sales data processing program) to realize the functions of the mode control unit and the notification unit.

The reception unit (clerk device) accepts the pressing of the call-out notification button 2111 (see FIG. 21) from the clerk. For example, when there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the device, the clerk presses the call-out notification button 2111. When the call-out notification button 2111 is pressed, if it is time to register a product, the monitoring device 11 sends a notification instruction to the customer terminal to make a call-out notification. Also, when the call-out notification button 2111 is pressed, if it is time to settle the account, the monitoring device 11 sends a notification instruction to the POS terminal device 20 to make a call-out notification.

(Example of a screen in Modification 3)
Fig. 21 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen in Modification 3. Fig. 21 (A) is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a monitoring screen 2100 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. The monitoring screen 2100 includes a transaction number area AR30 (AR30-1, AR30-2, AR30-3), a display instruction button BT30 (BT30-1, BT30-2, BT30-3), and a transaction list area AR40.

The first transaction count area AR30-1 indicates the total number of customer terminals that are currently running a shopping app (a specified application program) and shopping. Specifically, the first transaction count area AR30-1 indicates the total number of customer terminals that are in the middle of a transaction (total number of transactions) from the start of a transaction to its end (e.g., when payment is completed).

The second transaction count area AR30-2 indicates the number of customer terminals that are conducting transactions in which reserved items are registered (hereinafter referred to as "abnormal transactions") out of the total number of transactions. Reserved items are items that require confirmation by a store clerk. For example, reserved items are NO-FILE items, unscanned items, items that require age verification, items that require the removal of security tags, medicines, etc.

NO file products are, for example, products that are not registered in the product master. Unscanned products include products that could not be read because the product packaging is wrinkled, pseudo-scanned products that are added to the cart by scanning a part that does not have a code, and non-scanned products that are added to the shopping cart without performing any operation to position the product within the camera's imaging range.

Age verification products are products such as alcohol and tobacco that require a store clerk to verify the age of the customer before selling them. Anti-theft tag products are products that have an anti-theft tag attached, such as products over a certain amount of money. Pharmaceuticals are products that require a licensed person, such as a pharmacist, to explain the product to the purchaser.

The third transaction number area AR30-3 indicates the number of customer terminals that are conducting transactions in which no pending products are registered (hereinafter referred to as "normal transactions") out of the total number of transactions.

The transaction list area AR40 shows a list screen of customer terminals that are conducting any of the following transactions: abnormal transactions, normal transactions, and total transactions. In FIG. 21, the transaction list area AR40 shows a list screen of abnormal transactions. Note that the second transaction count area AR30-2 is highlighted in a specific manner (e.g., with a bold frame) to make it easier to recognize that the list screen of abnormal transactions is being displayed.

The display instruction buttons BT30 (BT30-1, BT30-2, BT30-3) are buttons that accept an operation to switch to a list screen of any one of abnormal transactions, normal transactions, and total transactions.
The first display instruction button BT30-1 is a button that accepts switching to a list screen of total transactions (all customer terminals).
The second display instruction button BT30-2 is a button that accepts switching to a list screen of a customer terminal that is performing an abnormal transaction. In the figure, since the list screen of abnormal transactions is displayed, the second display instruction button BT30-2 is displayed as being inoperable, for example, by being grayed out.
The third display instruction button BT30-3 is a button that accepts switching to a list screen of customer terminals that are performing normal transactions.

Transaction list area AR40 displays transaction details 2110 for each customer terminal. Transaction details 2110 include "transaction start time,""membershipnumber,""type of abnormal transaction,""number of items purchased,""totalamount,""elapsedtime,""terminaltype," and a notification button 2111 for calling out to the customer.
"Transaction start time" indicates the time when a transaction using the shopping ring was started (for example, the time when the first item was registered).
The "member number" is, for example, customer identification information.

The "type of abnormal transaction" is represented by an icon, such as "warranty", "year", "cart missing", and "caution".
The "Keep" icon indicates that, for example, either a NO file product or a read-NG product is registered as a reserved product. Different icons may be displayed for NO file products and read-NG products. Specifically, for example, an "n" icon may be displayed for NO file products, and a "Read" icon may be displayed for read-NG products.
The "year" icon indicates, for example, that a product that requires age verification is registered as a pending product.

The "basket missing" icon indicates that a fraudulent act known as a basket missing may have occurred. Specifically, the "basket missing" icon is registered as a pending product, either a pseudo-scanned input product or a non-scanned input product. Note that different icons may be displayed for pseudo-scanned input products and non-scanned input products. Specifically, for example, a "suspect" icon may be displayed for pseudo-scanned input products, and a "not" icon may be displayed for non-scanned input products.

The "Caution" icon indicates, for example, a transaction made by a member who is registered as a suspicious person in the customer information stored by the transaction management server (specifically, a member with a low customer rank). A suspicious person is, for example, a person who has previously committed fraudulent acts, a person who may have committed fraud, or a person who has difficulty in performing settlement operations on the POS terminal device 20 or registration operations on the customer terminal every time they shop. It is desirable for store staff to monitor such suspicious people. Therefore, transactions by suspicious people are included in abnormal transactions.

"Number of items purchased" indicates the number of registered items at the current time. "Total amount" indicates the total amount at the current time. "Elapsed time" indicates the time elapsed since the start of the transaction.

"Terminal type" indicates either a "customer-owned terminal" or a "store terminal." "Customer-owned terminal" indicates that the customer terminal used by the customer is owned by the customer. "Store terminal" indicates that the customer terminal used by the customer is loaned to the store.

The transaction details 2110 are displayed, for example, in order (from newest to oldest) according to the transaction start time (registration start time). In the figure, the transaction details 2110 of the most recent abnormal transactions from the first to the tenth are displayed. Note that since there are 11 or more abnormal transactions, the transaction list area AR40 is displayed across multiple pages. For this reason, it is possible to accept operations such as scrolling and page forwarding to display pages (transaction list area AR40) that are not displayed on the screen.

The order in which each transaction detail 2110 is arranged is not limited to the order according to the transaction start time. For example, it may be the order according to the number of reserved items, the order according to the number of purchases, the order according to the type of reserved items, or the order according to the positional relationship between the customer terminal and the POS terminal device 20 (closest order). The positional relationship can be obtained using location information obtained by a GPS unit of the customer terminal, the communication results between the customer terminal and a beacon installed at a specified position in the store, etc.

Each transaction content 2110 can accept an operation (press). When a transaction content 2110 is pressed, a detailed screen of the transaction content (registered product name, product unit price, etc.) is displayed. Although not explained here, it is also possible to display a list screen similar to the list screen of abnormal transactions for normal transactions and total transactions.

The call-out notification button 2111 is a button that accepts a call-out notification. For example, if the customer holding the customer terminal indicated by transaction detail number 10 2110 on the monitoring screen 2100 is deemed suspicious, the store clerk presses the call-out notification button 2111. When the call-out notification button 2111 is pressed, a confirmation display 2120 is displayed. The confirmation display 2120 includes a "Yes" button and a "No" button. When the store clerk presses the "Yes" button, if the product is being registered, the customer terminal is made to make a call-out notification, and if payment is being made, the POS terminal device 20 is made to make a call-out notification.

Figure 21 (B) is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a call-out notification screen 2130 displayed on the customer terminal Ct. The call-out notification screen 2130 indicates a communication error. The call-out notification screen 2130 also indicates that a store clerk is being called, or that the customer should wait until the store clerk arrives. When the store clerk arrives at the customer's location, he or she can speak to the customer or visually check for any fraudulent activity, under the pretext of a communication error. When the store clerk performs a specified operation on the call-out notification screen 2130 to enter a store clerk code, login information, password, etc., the display of the call-out notification screen 2130 is canceled and the screen returns to the original screen (product registration screen).

Figure 21 (C) is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a call notification screen 2140 displayed on the POS terminal device 20. The call notification screen 2140 indicates a communication error. The call notification screen 2140 also indicates that a store clerk is being called, or that the customer should wait until the store clerk arrives. When the store clerk arrives at the customer's location, they can speak to the customer or visually check for any fraudulent activity, under the pretext of a communication error. Furthermore, when a store clerk code, login information, password, etc. are entered on the call notification screen 2140, the display of the call notification screen 2140 is cancelled, and the screen returns to the original screen (payment screen).

According to variant 3, in the shopping system, the monitoring device 11 accepts input for issuing a call-out alert (pressing the call-out alert button 2111) from the monitoring store clerk, and the customer terminal issues the call-out alert. This creates an opportunity for the store clerk being monitored by the monitoring device 11 to speak to the customer if there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the product when registering the product. Therefore, even a new or shy store clerk can be assisted in providing appropriate support to customers when registering products in the shopping system.

In addition, in the shopping system, the monitoring device 11 accepts input for issuing a call-out alert (pressing the call-out alert button 2111) from the monitoring store clerk, and the customer terminal Ct issues the call-out alert. This creates an opportunity for the store clerk monitoring with the monitoring device 11 to speak to the customer if there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the product when registering the product. Therefore, even a new or shy store clerk can be assisted in providing appropriate support to customers when registering products in the shopping system.

In addition, in the shopping system, the monitoring device 11 accepts input for issuing a call-out alert (pressing the call-out alert button 2111) from the monitoring store clerk, and the POS terminal device 20 issues the call-out alert. This creates an opportunity for the store clerk being monitored by the monitoring device 11 to speak to a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the system during checkout. Therefore, even a new or shy store clerk can be assisted in providing appropriate support to customers during checkout in the shopping system.

(Variation 4)
Next, a fourth modified example will be described. In the above-described embodiment, the products registered by the customer are mainly ordinary products with barcodes. In the fourth modified example, in addition to or instead of the above configuration, a case will be described in which the products registered by the customer are products to be weighed using a scale (self-weighing).

In variant 4, for example, the shopping system shown in variant 3 further includes a weighing device and a store clerk terminal. The weighing device is a computer device that weighs the items to be weighed. The weighing device calculates the price of the items to be weighed using the weighed weight (or number) and the unit price of the items to be weighed. The items to be weighed are items that are different from regular items. Here, regular items are, for example, items that have a JAN (Japanese Article Number) code attached. When the customer terminal reads the JAN code, it queries the cloud server for the read JAN code and obtains the price data associated with the JAN code.

On the other hand, the products to be weighed are products whose prices vary depending on the weight and quantity of the item. Specifically, the products to be weighed include fresh foods such as vegetables, fruits, fish, and meat, as well as prepared foods. The weighing device prints and outputs a label that encodes the amount, weight, etc. of the product to be weighed. The label contains the price. In other words, the labels (barcodes) attached to the products to be weighed use the NON-PLU (Price Look Up) method.

The store clerk terminal is a portable computer device carried by the store clerk, such as a smartphone.

Next, we will explain how to issue a call-out notification in Variation 4. The clerk terminal is an example of a clerk device. The clerk terminal is capable of displaying, for example, a monitoring screen 2100 (see FIG. 21) that includes a call-out notification button 2111. In Variation 4, the reception unit is realized by the CPU of the clerk terminal. That is, the function of the reception unit is realized by the CPU of the clerk terminal executing a specific program (product sales data processing program).

In addition, in the fourth variant, the customer device is realized by the weighing device at the time of weighing. That is, the notification unit is realized by the CPU of the weighing device. That is, the CPU of the weighing device executes a predetermined program (product sales data processing program) to realize the function of the notification unit.

When a customer commits fraudulent acts such as stuffing more products into a bag after weighing is completed, or when a customer is confused about how to operate the weighing device, the store clerk presses the voice notification button 2111 on the store clerk terminal. When the voice notification button 2111 is pressed, if a product is registered by self-weighing, the store clerk terminal sends a notification instruction to the weighing device to make a voice notification. The weighing device then makes a voice notification. A voice notification made by the weighing device is an error related to the weighing function, such as an error correcting the tare value (value of the container). The store clerk may also be able to select the voice notification made by the weighing device.

In addition, in the fourth modification, the clerk device is not limited to being realized by a clerk terminal, but may be realized by a monitoring device. Specifically, the monitoring device in the fourth modification monitors the self-weighing by the customer. The monitoring device also displays a monitoring screen 2100 (see FIG. 21) including a voice notification button 2111. A clerk is also stationed on the monitoring device. When the clerk presses the voice notification button 2111 on the monitoring device, if a product is being registered by self-weighing, the monitoring device can send a notification instruction to the weighing device to make a voice notification. In this way, the weighing device can also make a voice notification.

Moreover, although Variation 4 is premised on the shopping system shown in Variation 3, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, Variation 4 can also be applied to a POS system in which a customer performs self-weighing and checks out at a POS terminal device 20 where a store clerk is present or at a self-checkout register. In this case, however, the store clerk device is realized by the monitoring device described above. That is, a store clerk positioned at the monitoring device can cause the weighing device to issue a voice notification by pressing the voice notification button 2111 displayed on the monitoring device.

In addition, in variant 4, the customer device is not limited to being realized by a weighing device, but may be realized by a customer terminal Ct. For example, when the voice notification button 2111 is pressed on the store clerk terminal, if a product is registered by self-weighing, the store clerk terminal may send a notification instruction to the customer terminal Ct to make a voice notification. The customer terminal Ct may then make a voice notification. The voice notification made by the customer terminal Ct may be, for example, an error related to the weighing function.

According to variant 4, in self-weighing using a weighing device, the clerk device (e.g., clerk terminal) accepts input from the clerk for issuing a voice notification (pressing the voice notification button 2111) and the customer terminal (e.g., the weighing device) issues the voice notification. This provides an opportunity for the clerk to speak to a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the device when registering products using self-weighing. Therefore, even new or shy clerks can be assisted in providing appropriate support to customers when registering products using self-weighing.

(Variation 5)
Next, a description will be given of Modification 5. In the above-described embodiment, in the case of the full self-service specification, the customer is monitored by the monitoring device 11. In Modification 5, in addition to or instead of such a configuration, in the case of the semi-self-service specification, the customer may be monitored by the monitoring device 11.

In the fifth variation, a store clerk is stationed at the monitoring device 11. The monitoring device 11 monitors the customer's settlement operation at the POS terminal device 20 (settlement POS terminal devices 20b, 20c) in the settlement-only mode. The monitoring device 11 then receives a press of the voice notification button 710a (see FIG. 7) from the monitoring store clerk. Upon receiving the press, the settlement POS terminal devices 20b, 20c issue a voice notification based on instructions from the monitoring device 11.

Even in this way, if there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the semi-self-service POS system during checkout, the store clerk monitoring with the monitoring device 11 can create an opportunity to talk to the customer. Therefore, even a new or shy store clerk can be assisted in providing appropriate support to customers during checkout with the semi-self-service POS system 1.

In addition, in the semi-self-service version, the monitoring device 11 can monitor the customer's settlement (face-to-face settlement) at the registered POS terminal device 20a. However, when face-to-face settlement is performed, since a store clerk is stationed at the registered POS terminal device 20a, the store clerk at the monitoring device 11 does not need to go out of his way to call out to the customer who is making the face-to-face settlement. For this reason, the monitoring device 11 may be configured not to display the call notification button 710a (see FIG. 7) corresponding to the registered POS terminal device 20a. Specifically, the monitoring device 11 may display the call notification button 710a corresponding to the registered POS terminal device 20a in a darkened state so that it cannot be pressed, or may display an error when it is pressed.

In addition, the monitoring device 11 may be configured to make it possible to press the notification button 710a for speaking to the customer corresponding to the registered POS terminal device 20a. For example, even if the clerk at the registered POS terminal device 20a does not see any fraudulent activity by the customer making the payment in person, it is possible that the clerk at the monitoring device 11 may see that the customer is committing fraudulent activity. In this case, in order to notify the clerk at the registered POS terminal device 20a, the monitoring device 11 may be configured to notify only the clerk-side display unit 210 of the registered POS terminal device 20a when the notification button 710a for speaking to the customer corresponding to the registered POS terminal device 20a is pressed. In other words, the customer-side display unit 205 may not be notified of the fact.

In addition, in the semi-self-service version, the monitoring device 11 is not limited to not displaying the voice notification button 710a on the monitoring screen 700 (see FIG. 7) or the like, but may also not display the registered POS terminal device 20a or may display it in a darkened state.

In addition, while the registered POS terminal device 20a (the POS terminal device 20 in normal mode) is hidden or displayed in a darkened state, the POS terminal device 20 in full self-service mode, the settlement POS terminal device 20b, and the POS terminal device 20 dedicated to settlement in the shopping system of variant example 3 may be displayed on a single screen as monitored objects. The monitoring device 11 may also use buttons, tabs, etc. to display the POS terminal device 20 for each controlled mode.

The embodiments will be summarized below.
TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a merchandise sales data processing system, a store clerk device, a customer device, a notification method, and a program.
[Background Art]
Conventionally, in stores such as supermarkets, POS (Point Of Sales) registers have become widespread, allowing customers to check out themselves without the assistance of a store clerk. In such POS registers, customers operate the POS registers themselves, which can lead to fraudulent acts by customers or customers being unable to operate them efficiently. To address this issue, a self-checkout system is known in which an attendant terminal displays the operating status and error occurrence status of the self-checkout terminal (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).
[Prior Art Literature]
[Patent Documents]
[Patent Document 1] JP 2007-95026 A [Summary of the Invention]
[Problem to be solved by the invention]
However, even if there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate a self-checkout, if there is no error in the self-checkout, the store clerk has no opportunity to talk to the customer and may hesitate to speak to the customer. This causes a problem that new or shy store clerks may not be able to provide appropriate support to the customer.
The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and has an object to provide a technique that can assist store clerks in providing appropriate support to customers.
[Means for solving the problems]

(1) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention is a product sales data processing system including a customer device where at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by a customer, and a clerk device operated by a clerk, wherein the clerk device is capable of receiving input from the clerk for issuing an error notification on the customer device, and the customer device issues the notification when the clerk device receives the input.
According to the above configuration, it is possible to make the customer device appear to be in an error state even when it is not. This allows the customer to call a store clerk, or the store clerk to visit a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the device, creating an opportunity for the store clerk to talk to the customer. Therefore, it is possible to support even a new or shy store clerk to provide appropriate support to the customer.

(2) In the above configuration (1), the store clerk device may be a monitoring device that monitors the customer device.
According to the above configuration, when a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the machine is found, the store clerk monitored by the monitoring device 11 can create an opportunity to talk to the customer. Therefore, even a new or shy store clerk can be assisted in providing appropriate support to customers in a fully self-service environment.

(3) In the configuration of (1) or (2) above, the store clerk device may be a device that allows a store clerk to register products.
According to the above configuration, when a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation is encountered, the salesperson who registers the product can create an opportunity to talk to the customer. Therefore, even a new or shy salesperson can provide appropriate support to the customer in the semi-self-service mode.

(4) In the configuration of (3) above, the store clerk device may operate in any one of a plurality of operation modes including at least an operation mode in which product registration is performed by a store clerk, and may be capable of accepting the input according to the operation mode in which it is operating.
With the above configuration, the POS terminal 20 can accept notification input (the voice notification button) when in normal mode, but not when in checkout-only mode or full self-service mode. Therefore, notification input can be accepted according to the operation mode of the POS terminal 20 when a store clerk is present, which helps store clerks provide appropriate support to customers in semi-self-service mode.

(5) In any of the configurations (1) to (4) above, the customer device may be configured to operate in any of a plurality of operating modes, including an operating mode in which payment for products is made by the customer.
According to the above configuration, a notification for speaking to the customer can be made at the self-checkout. This can create an opportunity for the store clerk to speak to the customer who is performing the checkout operation when there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about the operation. Therefore, even a new or shy store clerk can be supported to provide appropriate support to the customer at the self-checkout.

(6) In any of the configurations (1) to (5) above, a memory means may be provided for storing, for each type of error, a level of urgency indicating whether or not an error notification threshold is being approached, and the customer device may be configured to issue the notification for the type selected based on the level of urgency stored in the memory means.
According to the above configuration, it is possible to make an error type that is likely to become an error appear as if it has occurred, as a trigger for the store clerk to talk to the customer. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of the error and to provide appropriate support to the customer.

(7) In any of the configurations (1) to (6) above, the store clerk device may be capable of accepting the input from the store clerk depending on whether the customer device is in an error state or a non-error state.
According to the above configuration, when an error occurs, pressing of the voice notification button 710a can be prevented, thereby preventing the store clerk from performing unnecessary operations.

(8) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a clerk device, which is a product sales data processing system including a customer device in which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by a customer, and a clerk device operated by a clerk, characterized in that the clerk device is capable of receiving input from the clerk for notifying the customer device of an error, and when the input is received from the clerk, sends an instruction to the customer device for making the notification.
According to the above configuration, it is possible to make the customer device appear to be in an error state even when it is not. This allows the customer to call a store clerk, or the store clerk to visit a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the device, creating an opportunity for the store clerk to talk to the customer. Therefore, it is possible to support even a new or shy store clerk to provide appropriate support to the customer.

(9) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a customer device of a product sales data processing system including a customer device in which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by a customer, and a clerk device operated by a clerk, wherein the customer device is characterized in that when the clerk device receives input from the clerk to notify the customer of an error in the customer device, the clerk device makes the notification.
According to the above configuration, it is possible to make the customer device appear to be in an error state even when it is not. This allows the customer to call a store clerk, or the store clerk to visit a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the device, creating an opportunity for the store clerk to talk to the customer. Therefore, it is possible to support even a new or shy store clerk to provide appropriate support to the customer.

(10) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is an alert method, characterized in that a product sales data processing system includes a customer device on which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by a customer, and a clerk device operated by a clerk, the computer used in the customer device executes a process to enable the customer device to receive input from a clerk for issuing an alert regarding an error, and the computer used in the customer device executes a process to issue the alert when the clerk device accepts the input.
According to the above configuration, it is possible to make the customer device appear to be in an error state even when it is not. This allows the customer to call a store clerk, or the store clerk to visit a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the device, creating an opportunity for the store clerk to talk to the customer. Therefore, it is possible to support even a new or shy store clerk to provide appropriate support to the customer.

(11) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a program for a product sales data processing system including a customer device on which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by a customer, and a clerk device operated by a clerk, the program causing a computer used in the customer device to execute a process that enables the customer device to receive input from a clerk for notifying the customer of an error, and causing the computer used in the customer device to execute a process that makes the notification when the clerk device receives the input.
According to the above configuration, it is possible to make the customer device appear to be in an error state even when it is not. This allows the customer to call a store clerk, or the store clerk to visit a suspicious customer or a customer who is confused about how to operate the device, creating an opportunity for the store clerk to talk to the customer. Therefore, it is possible to support even a new or shy store clerk to provide appropriate support to the customer.

Note that all or part of the functions (input/output, storage, processing (including judgment)) of each device described above (monitoring device 11, POS terminal device 20, etc.) may be realized in a device other than the device described as the entity that executes the function.

For example, instead of the POS terminal device 20, the store controller 10 or a cloud server (not shown) may store the urgency table 1500. Also, instead of the monitoring device 11 or the POS terminal device 20, the process executed by these devices (e.g., see FIG. 6) may be executed.

In the above description, the clerk device includes a reception unit, and the customer device includes a mode control unit and an alarm unit. However, all or some of these functional units may be provided in other computer devices. For example, all or some of these functional units may be provided in the store controller 10, in the cloud server, or in other computer devices. Furthermore, the number of computer devices that include these functional units is not limited to multiple, and may be one. For example, one computer device may include all of these functional units.

In relation to the above, the monitoring device 11 and the POS terminal 20 may function as a so-called thin client specialized for the input/output interface when it comes to reporting errors. In other words, the monitoring device 11 and the POS terminal 20 may accept various inputs (operation by an operator, detection by a device such as a scanner), send input information (operation information, scan information, etc.) to a cloud server, receive the processing results of the cloud server based on the input information (update screen information, device control information, etc.), and perform various outputs (display on a display unit, control of a device).

The programs for implementing the POS system 1, the monitoring device 11, the POS terminal device 20, the cloud server, the shopping system, etc. described above may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the programs may be read and executed by the computer system. The term "computer system" as used herein includes hardware such as the 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 above-mentioned program may be transmitted from a computer system that stores the program in a storage device, etc., to another computer system via a transmission medium, or by a transmission wave in the transmission medium. The "transmission medium" that transmits the program here refers to a medium that has the 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 one that realizes some of the functions described above. Furthermore, it may be one that realizes the functions described above in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system, a so-called differential file (differential program).

Reference Signs List 1 POS system 10 store controller 11 monitoring device 20 POS terminal device 201, 301 CPU
202, 302...ROM
203, 303...RAM
204, 304... Hard disk 205... Customer side display unit 206... Customer side scanner unit 208... Card settlement unit 209... Change machine 210... Clerk side display unit 211... Key operation unit 212... Clerk side scanner unit 213... Printing unit 214... Audio output unit 215... Communication unit 216... Camera 305... Display unit 306... Audio output unit 307... Communication unit

Claims (11)

A product sales data processing system including a customer device where at least one of product registration and product payment is performed by a customer, and a store clerk device operated by a store clerk,
the store clerk device is capable of receiving an input from a store clerk for making a pseudo-notification of an error in the customer device in an operable state in which either one of the two is possible ,
the customer device issues the notification when the store clerk device accepts the input;
A product sales data processing system comprising: The store clerk device is a monitoring device that monitors the customer device.
2. The product sales data processing system according to claim 1. The store clerk device is a device for allowing a store clerk to register products.
3. The product sales data processing system according to claim 1 or 2. the customer device is put into an inoperable state in response to the notification, in which neither product registration nor product payment can be performed.
4. The product sales data processing system according to claim 1, A product sales data processing system including a customer device where at least one of product registration and product payment is performed by a customer, and a store clerk device operated by a store clerk,
the store clerk device is capable of receiving an input from a store clerk for making a pseudo-notification of an error in the customer device in an operable state in which either one of the two is possible,
The customer device comprises:
When the store clerk device receives the input, the notification is made;
a storage unit that stores a degree of urgency indicating whether or not an error type is approaching a threshold for error notification for each type of error, the degree of urgency being stored in the storage unit , and the notification is performed for the type of error selected based on the degree of urgency.
A product sales data processing system comprising: A product sales data processing system including a customer device on which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by a customer, and a store clerk device operated by a store clerk,
The customer device is operable to receive an input from a store clerk to perform a pseudo-notification of an error in the customer device that is operable in one of the above-mentioned two ways ,
When the input is received from the store clerk, an instruction to perform the notification is transmitted to the customer device.
A store clerk device comprising: A product sales data processing system including a customer device on which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by a customer, and a store clerk device operated by a store clerk,
When the clerk device receives an input from the clerk for making a pseudo-notification that an error has occurred in the customer device in an operable state in which either one of the above is possible, the clerk device makes the notification.
A customer device comprising: A product sales data processing system including a customer device where at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by a customer, and a store clerk device operated by a store clerk, comprising: a computer used in the store clerk device,
and making it possible to receive an input from a store clerk for making a pseudo notification of an error in the customer device in an operable state in which either one of the above is possible .
Execute the process,
A computer used in the customer device,
When the store clerk device receives the input, the notification is made.
A notification method comprising: executing a process. A product sales data processing system including a customer device where at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by a customer, and a store clerk device operated by a store clerk, comprising: a computer used in the store clerk device,
and making it possible to receive an input from a store clerk for making a pseudo notification of an error in the customer device in an operable state in which either one of the above is possible .
Execute the process,
A computer used in the customer device,
When the store clerk device receives the input, the notification is made.
A program characterized by executing a process. A product sales data processing system including a customer device on which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by a customer, and a store clerk device operated by a store clerk,
when the clerk device receives an input from the clerk for making a pseudo-notification that an error has occurred in the customer device that is in an operable state in which either one of the above is possible, the clerk device makes the notification;
a storage unit that stores a degree of urgency indicating whether or not an error type is approaching a threshold for error notification for each type of error, the degree of urgency being stored in the storage unit, and the notification is performed for the type of error selected based on the degree of urgency.
A customer device comprising: A product sales data processing system including a customer device where at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by a customer, and a store clerk device operated by a store clerk, comprising: a computer used in the store clerk device,
and making it possible to receive an input from a store clerk for making a pseudo notification of an error in the customer device in an operable state in which either one of the above is possible.
Execute the process,
A computer used in the customer device,
When the store clerk device receives the input, the notification is made;
a storage unit that stores a degree of urgency indicating whether or not an error type is approaching a threshold for error notification for each type of error, the degree of urgency being stored in the storage unit, and the notification is performed for the type of error selected based on the degree of urgency.
A notification method comprising: executing a process.

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