JP7633099B2 - Communication system, mobile terminal, currency processing device and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a communication system, a mobile terminal, a currency processing device, and a program.

For monetary settlement, an input system including a POS (Point of Sales) terminal and a change dispenser is used. The POS terminal has a function for managing the data of the transaction that is the subject of the settlement. On the other hand, the change dispenser has a function for managing the amount of coins and bills (hereafter referred to as "money") in the machine, a function for managing errors, a function for managing the hardware status, etc.
Information managed by the change dispenser (hereinafter referred to as "management information") may be notified to an administrator terminal operated by an administrator or a management server via the POS terminal.

JP 2014-119808 A

However, in order to send management information to an administrator terminal or management server via a POS terminal, it is necessary to create or modify a network environment between the POS terminal, the administrator terminal, and the management server, which entails significant costs.

The present invention aims to realize a mechanism that easily realizes communication between an input system and a terminal that manages the management information of the input system.

The invention described in claim 1 is a communication system having an input system and a mobile terminal, wherein the input system has a receiving means for receiving first information identifying an attendant using the system, and a transmitting means for transmitting a communication request including the first information to the mobile terminal, and the mobile terminal has a storage means for storing second information identifying an attendant using the terminal, a receiving means for receiving the communication request from the input system, and a control means for controlling communication with the input system, wherein the control means controls communication with the input system based on the first information included in the communication request received by the receiving means and the second information stored in the storage means , and controls to allow communication with the input system when the first information and the second information match .
The invention described in claim 2 is the communication system described in claim 1, characterized in that the input system further has an alarm means for alarming that connection with the mobile terminal is not established if communication with the mobile terminal is not confirmed within a predetermined time from the issuance of the communication request.
The invention recited in claim 3 is the communication system recited in claim 2 , characterized in that the notification means is a display unit.
The invention described in claim 4 is the communication system described in any one of claims 1 to 3 , characterized in that the mobile terminal receives management information from the input system during communication.
The invention described in claim 5 is the communication system described in claim 4 , characterized in that the mobile terminal controls notifications to staff using the terminal based on the management information received from the input system.
The invention described in claim 6 is a communication system as described in claim 4 or 5, further comprising an administrator terminal used by an administrator, the mobile terminal used by an attendant having a first transmitting means for transmitting the management information to the administrator terminal, and the administrator terminal used by the administrator controlling notifications to the administrator based on the management information received from the mobile terminal.
The invention described in claim 7 is a communication system described in any one of claims 4 to 6 , further comprising a management server, and the mobile terminal has a second transmitting means for transmitting the management information received from the input system to the management server .
The invention described in claim 8 is a communication system described in any one of claims 1 to 7 , characterized in that the input system includes a POS terminal, and the first information is information of a staff member using the POS terminal.
The invention described in claim 9 is a communication system described in claim 8, characterized in that the input system further includes a currency processing device communicatively connected to the POS terminal, the POS terminal notifies the currency processing device of the first information, and the transmitting means transmits the communication request including the first information to the mobile terminal.
The invention described in claim 10 is a communication system described in claim 9 , in which the currency processing device performs processing related to payment in cooperation with the POS terminal even if communication with the mobile terminal is not confirmed.
The invention described in claim 11 is a mobile terminal comprising a receiving means for receiving a communication request from an input system including first information identifying an attendant using the input system, a storage means for storing second information identifying an attendant using the terminal, and a control means for controlling communication with the input system, wherein the control means controls communication with the input system based on the first information included in the communication request received by the receiving means and the second information stored in the storage means , and controls to allow communication with the input system when the first information and the second information match .
The invention described in claim 12 is the mobile terminal described in claim 11 , characterized in that the control means controls notifications to staff using the terminal based on management information received from the input system.
The invention described in claim 13 is a currency processing device connected to a POS terminal so as to be able to communicate with it, and having a receiving means for receiving from the POS terminal first information identifying an attendant using the POS terminal, a transmitting means for transmitting a communication request including the first information, and an alarm means for notifying of a lack of connection to a mobile terminal if communication corresponding to the communication request is not confirmed within a predetermined time from the transmission of the communication request.
The invention described in claim 14 is a program for enabling a computer provided in a mobile terminal to realize a function of receiving a communication request from the input system, the communication request including first information identifying an attendant using the input system, and a function of controlling the computer to allow communication with the input system if the first information included in the received communication request and second information identifying an attendant using the mobile terminal match.
The invention described in claim 15 is a program for enabling a computer provided in a currency processing device to realize the following functions: receiving from a POS terminal that is connected in a communicative manner, first information identifying an attendant using the POS terminal; sending a communication request including the first information; and, if communication corresponding to the communication request is not confirmed within a predetermined time from the sending of the communication request, notifying of a lack of connection to a mobile terminal.

The present invention makes it possible to easily realize communication between an input system and a terminal that manages the management information.

1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of an in-store system to which a first embodiment is applied; 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the appearance of a POS system used in a first embodiment. FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a POS register. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a change machine. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a smartphone carried by a cashier. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a communication operation executed in the POS system. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a communication operation executed by a smartphone. 1A is a diagram illustrating the flow of communication operations up to the link between the POS system and the smartphone carried by the cashier, and FIG. 1B is a diagram illustrating the state in which link with the change dispenser has started in response to a response from the smartphone. 1A is a diagram illustrating the flow of communication operations when cooperation between a POS system and a smartphone carried by a cashier fails, and FIG. 1B is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displayed on the display unit of a POS register. 13 is a diagram illustrating the transmission of management information and notifications to a higher-level device by a smartphone linked to a change dispenser. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of an in-store system to which a second embodiment is applied. 1A is a diagram illustrating the flow of communication operations up to the link between the POS system and the smartphone carried by the cashier, and FIG. 1B is a diagram illustrating the state in which link with the change dispenser has started in response to a response from the smartphone. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of an in-store system to which a third embodiment is applied. 1A shows an example of a message displayed when a communication request is broadcast, and FIG. 1B shows another example of a message displayed when a response to the communication request is not confirmed.

Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
<First embodiment>
<System Configuration>
Fig. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of an in-store system 1 to which the first embodiment is applied. The in-store system 1 illustrated in Fig. 1 is provided for each store. The in-store system 1 is an example of a communication system.

The in-store system 1 shown in FIG. 1 is made up of a POS system 10 consisting of a POS register 11 and a change dispenser 12 , and a smartphone 20 carried by the cashier who operates the POS register 11 .
The POS system 10 is an example of an input system. The POS register 11 is an example of a POS terminal, and the change machine 12 is an example of a currency processing device. The cashier is an example of a staff member.

The in-store system 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes a POS system 10. The POS system 10 shown in FIG. 1 is used, for example, in a standalone state. In this embodiment, a standalone state refers to a state in which the system is not connected to a wired LAN (Local Area Network) or wireless LAN in the store.

1 is a stationary POS register 11. Therefore, the POS register 11 and the change dispenser 12 are connected by a communication cable 13. However, the POS register 11 may also be a tablet computer (hereinafter referred to as a "tablet") or a smartphone.
In the case of FIG. 1, there are four cashiers: cashier A, cashier B, cashier C, and cashier D.
However, the number of cashiers who may operate the POS system 10 is not limited to four. For example, the number of cashiers may be one.

In the case of FIG. 1, cashier A operates the POS system 10, while the other cashiers B, C, and D do not operate the POS system 10.
In Fig. 1, the smartphone 20 carried by cashier A is indicated as "smartphone 20A", the smartphone 20 carried by cashier B is indicated as "smartphone 20B", the smartphone 20 carried by cashier C is indicated as "smartphone 20C", and the smartphone 20 carried by cashier D is indicated as "smartphone 20D". The smartphone 20 is an example of a mobile terminal. Note that a smartwatch, smart glasses, etc. may also be used as the mobile terminal.

<External configuration of POS register and change dispenser>
2 is a diagram for explaining an example of the appearance of the POS system 10 used in the embodiment 1. In Fig. 2, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
The POS register 11 executes input of transaction data to be settled, calculation of the settlement amount, settlement processing, etc. Transactions include not only purchase of goods but also use of services such as food and drink.
The POS register 11 is provided with a display unit 111 that displays information, and an operation unit 112 that accepts operations by the cashier. The POS register 11 is placed on the top surface of the change machine 12, for example.

The change dispenser 12 counts the amount of money deposited, calculates the amount of money deposited, and dispenses the amount of money corresponding to the change amount notified by the POS register 11.
The change machine 12 is provided with an operation display unit 121, a coin receiving unit 122A into which coins are inserted, a coin dispensing unit 122B from which coins are dispensed, a banknote receiving unit 123A into which banknotes are inserted, a banknote dispensing unit 123B from which banknotes are dispensed, and a collection cassette 124 used when collecting sales proceeds. The change machine 12 can also be equipped with a change storage unit that stores coins packaged in rod shape according to denomination.

<Pos Register Configuration>
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the POS register 11. As shown in FIG.
The POS register 11 is made up of a control unit 110 that controls the operation of the entire device, and a processing device connected to the control unit 110.
In FIG. 3, a display unit 111, an operation unit 112, communication units 113 and 114, and a storage unit 115 are shown as examples of processing devices.

The display unit 111 is used to display information related to a transaction, provide information to a cashier, etc. The display unit 111 is configured, for example, with a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (=Electro-Luminescence) display. The display unit 111 here is an example of a notification means. Note that a speaker or a vibrator can also be used as the notification means.
The operation unit 112 is used to accept operations by a cashier. The operation unit 112 is used, for example, to input product prices and service fees. The operation unit 112 is also used, for example, to input information about a customer. The operation unit 112 is composed of, for example, a numeric keypad and other buttons.

In the present embodiment, the display unit 111 and the operation unit 112 are configured as independent devices, but a touch panel in which the display unit 111 and the operation unit 112 are integrated may be used.
The communication unit 113 is a communication device used for communication with the change machine 12. In the case of this embodiment, the communication unit 113 is connected to the change machine 12 via a communication cable 13.

The communication unit 114 is a communication device used for communication with an in-store network, etc. For example, communication with a terminal on the network is possible through a LAN terminal or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) terminal.
The storage unit 115 is configured with a rewritable non-volatile storage device such as a hard disk device, a semiconductor memory, etc. The storage unit 115 stores, for example, data related to transactions, data related to deposited and withdrawn currency, and the like.

The control unit 110 has a CPU, a ROM (Read Only Memory) in which a BIOS (Basic Input Output System) and firmware etc. are stored, a RAM (Random Access Memory) used as a work area etc. The control unit 110 operates as a so-called computer.
The control unit 110 realizes various functions through the execution of programs such as firmware, etc. Fig. 3 shows examples of functions realized through the execution of programs.

The functions shown in FIG. 3 are a display control unit 1101 that controls the information displayed on the display unit 111, a cashier ID receiving unit 1102 that receives the ID (= IDentifier) of the cashier (hereinafter referred to as the "cashier ID") input when the operation of the machine is started, a cashier ID notification unit 1103 that notifies the change machine 12 of the received cashier ID, a communication error receiving unit 1104 that receives from the change machine 12 a communication error between the change machine 12 and the smartphone 20, a data receiving unit 1105 that receives data from other devices, a data transmitting unit 1106 that transmits data to other devices, and a payment processing unit 1107 that executes payment processing.

The display control unit 1101 is a functional unit that displays an operation screen (hereinafter referred to as the “operation screen”) on the display unit 111 .
The operation screen includes a screen for registering cashiers, a screen for displaying transaction information and settlement information, and an error screen for displaying various types of error information.
The cashier ID receiving unit 1102 is a functional unit that receives a cashier ID from the cashier registration screen. For example, an employee number or an account name is used as the cashier ID. The cashier registers his/her own cashier ID before starting a settlement using the POS system 10 (see FIG. 1). The cashier ID here is an example of the first information.

The person in charge ID notification unit 1103 is a functional unit that notifies the change machine 12 connected via the communication cable 13 (see FIG. 1) of a person in charge ID.
The communication error receiving unit 1104 is a functional unit that receives, from the change machine 12, a notification of the occurrence of an error in communication between the change machine 12 and a specific smartphone 20. The specific smartphone 20 is the smartphone 20 carried by the person who operates the POS register 11. The communication error may be a case where communication with the smartphone 20 carried by the person in charge cannot be established or a case where communication is interrupted midway.

When a communication error is received, the communication error receiving unit 1104 notifies the display control unit 1101 of the fact. Upon receiving the notification of the reception of the communication error, the display control unit 1101 displays an error screen on the display unit 111.
The POS register 11 used in this embodiment has a function of transmitting and receiving various data to and from the change dispenser 12 .

<Configuration of the change dispenser>
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the change machine 12. As shown in FIG.
The change machine 12 is made up of a control unit 120 that controls the operation of the entire device, and a processing device connected to the control unit 120.
In Figure 4, as examples of processing devices, an operation display unit 121, a coin receiving unit 122A, a coin dispensing unit 122B, a banknote receiving unit 123A, a banknote dispensing unit 123B, a collection cassette 124, a change storage unit 125, communication units 126 and 127, and a memory unit 128 are shown.

The operation display unit 121 is a functional unit that displays information on the amount of currency, the need for replenishing currency, the need for collecting currency, etc. The operation display unit 121 is configured with, for example, a touch panel. However, instead of the operation display unit 121, an operation unit and a display unit may be provided separately.
The coin receiving unit 122A is a functional unit that feeds received coins one by one onto a transport path, identifies the coin denomination and authenticity, and counts the coins.
The coin dispensing unit 122B is a functional unit that executes the dispensing of the coins out of the amount instructed to be dispensed by the POS register 11 .

The banknote receiving unit 123A is a functional unit that feeds received banknotes one by one onto a transport path, identifies the denomination and authenticity of the banknotes, and counts them.
The banknote dispensing unit 123B is a functional unit that dispenses the banknotes of the amount instructed to be dispensed by the POS register 11 .
The collection cassette 124 is a cassette that is detachably attached to the housing and stores banknotes to be collected.
The change storage section 125 is a storage section in which deposited coins and reserve funds for change are stored, separated by denomination.

The communication unit 126 is a communication device used for communication with the POS register 11. In this embodiment, the communication unit 126 is connected to the POS register 11 via the communication cable 13.
The communication unit 127 is a communication device used for communication with an in-store network or the like. For example, communication with a terminal on the network is possible through a LAN terminal or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) terminal. In the present embodiment, the communication unit 127 communicates with the smartphone 20 via Bluetooth (registered trademark).

The memory unit 128 is composed of a rewritable non-volatile storage device such as a hard disk device or semiconductor memory. The memory unit 128 stores, as management information 1281, data on the amount of currency of each denomination stored in the machine, information on errors that occur during operation, information to be handed over to the next cashier, maintenance information for hardware and consumables, operation logs, and the like.

Data on the balance includes, for example, information on the surplus or shortage of loose coins or loose banknotes by denomination.
The error information includes, for example, information about errors that can be cleared by the cashier and information about errors that cannot be cleared by the cashier.
The maintenance information includes, for example, unlocking information for units such as the collection cassette 124 and the change storage unit 125, information regarding the amount of currency handled, and information regarding the remaining amount of receipts.

The control unit 120 has a CPU, a ROM in which the BIOS, firmware, etc. are stored, a RAM used as a work area, etc. The control unit 120 operates as a so-called computer.
The control unit 120 realizes various functions through the execution of programs such as firmware, etc. Fig. 4 shows examples of functions realized through the execution of programs.

The functions shown in FIG. 4 are a staff ID receiving unit 1201 that receives a staff ID from the POS register 11 (see FIG. 1), a communication request sending unit 1202 that broadcasts a communication request from the communication unit 127, a communication error notifying unit 1203 that notifies the POS register 11 of a communication error when communication with a specific smartphone 20 designated as the communication destination is impaired, a communication data receiving unit 1204 that receives communication data from the POS register 11 or the smartphone 20, a communication data sending unit 1205 that sends communication data to the POS register 11 or the smartphone 20, a deposit/withdrawal control unit 1206 that controls the deposit and withdrawal of currency, an in-machine information acquisition unit 1207 that acquires in-machine information, a management information recording unit 1208 that records the acquired in-machine information in the memory unit 128 as management information 1281, and a display control unit 1209 that controls the information displayed on the operation display unit 121.

The person in charge ID receiving unit 1201 is a functional unit that provides the received person in charge ID to the communication request transmitting unit 1202. The person in charge ID receiving unit 1201 here is an example of a receiving unit.
The communication request sending unit 1202 is a functional unit that broadcasts a communication request including the accepted person in charge ID from the communication unit 127. The communication request here is transmitted to all smartphones 20 that have been paired by Bluetooth. The communication request sending unit 1202 here is an example of a sending means.

The communication error notification unit 1203 is a functional unit that notifies a communication error when there is no smartphone 20 that has responded to a communication request or when communication with a smartphone 20 that has started communication is interrupted.
The communication data receiving unit 1204 receives information regarding the amount to be dispensed as change and the remaining amount of receipt paper from the POS register 11 via the communication unit 126. In this embodiment, the remaining amount of receipt paper is also managed as part of the management information.
The communication data transmission unit 1205 transmits information about the deposited amount to the POS register 11 via the communication unit 126. The communication data transmission unit 1205 also transmits management information via the communication unit 127 to the smartphone 20 with which communication has begun.

The deposit/withdrawal control unit 1206 is a functional unit that controls operations related to depositing and withdrawing currency. Specifically, the deposit/withdrawal control unit 1206 controls the operations of the coin receiving unit 122A, the coin dispensing unit 122B, the banknote receiving unit 123A, and the banknote dispensing unit 123B.
The on-board information acquisition unit 1207 is a functional unit that acquires the amount of currency stored on board by denomination, operation logs, error logs, and information necessary for hardware maintenance.

The management information recording unit 1208 is a functional unit that records the acquired in-machine information in the memory unit 128 as management information 1281. As described above, in this embodiment, the shortage of receipt paper in the POS register 11 is also stored in the memory unit 128 as part of the management information 1281.
The display control unit 1209 is a functional unit that controls the information to be displayed on the operation display unit 121. The information here includes, for example, information on the balance by denomination, information on errors, and the like.

<Smartphone configuration>
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the smartphone 20 carried by the cashier.
The smartphone 20 is composed of a control unit 201 that controls the operation of the entire device, and a processing device connected to the control unit 201 .
In FIG. 5, an operation display unit 202, a communication unit 203, and a storage unit 204 are shown as examples of processing devices.

The operation display unit 202 is used to display information to the cashier carrying the device, accept operations, etc. The operation display unit 202 is formed of, for example, a touch panel.
The communication unit 203 is a communication device for communicating with other terminals through a network. The communication unit 203 in this embodiment is capable of communication, for example, via Bluetooth, wireless LAN, and USB. The communication unit 203 here is an example of a first transmission means and also an example of a second transmission means. The communication unit 203 as a first transmission means transmits management information to the smartphone 20 carried by the administrator. Also, the communication unit 203 as a second transmission means transmits management information to a management server.

The memory unit 204 is composed of a rewritable non-volatile semiconductor memory, and stores a cashier ID 2041 that identifies the cashier carrying the device. The cashier ID stored in the memory unit 204 is an example of second information. The cashier ID as the second information is registered when the smartphone 20 begins to be used. The memory unit 204 here is an example of a storage means for storing second information. Note that when the smartphone 20 carried by the cashier is shared by multiple people, the cashier inputs his or her own cashier ID when the smartphone begins to be used.

The control unit 201 has a CPU, a ROM in which the BIOS, firmware, etc. are stored, a RAM used as a work area, etc. The control unit 201 operates as a so-called computer.
The control unit 201 realizes various functions through the execution of programs such as firmware. Examples of functions realized through the execution of programs are listed in Fig. 5. Note that the control unit 201 here is an example of a control means that controls communication with the POS system 10 as an input system.

The functions shown in FIG. 5 are a communication request receiving unit 2011 that receives a communication request from the change machine 12, a communication request processing unit 2012 that determines whether the received communication request matches the person in charge ID of the machine, a communication data receiving unit 2013 that receives communication data from other terminals on the network, a communication data transmitting unit 2014 that transmits communication data to other terminals on the network, and a display control unit 2015 that controls the information to be displayed on the operation display unit 202.

The communication request receiving unit 2011 is a functional unit that, upon receiving a communication request, provides the person in charge ID included in the received communication request to the communication request processing unit 2012. The communication request receiving unit 2011 here is an example of a receiving means.
The communication request processing unit 2012 is a functional unit that determines whether or not to start communication with the change dispenser 12 that is the source of the communication request. In other words, it determines whether or not to permit communication.

If the person in charge ID included in the communication request matches the person in charge ID stored in the storage unit 204, the communication request processing unit 2012 responds to the change machine 12 (see FIG. 1 ). With this response, communication with the change machine 12 is started.
On the other hand, if the person in charge ID included in the communication request does not match the person in charge ID stored in the storage unit 204, the communication request processing unit 2012 does not respond to the change machine 12. In this case, communication with the change machine 12 is not started.

The communication data receiving unit 2013 is a functional unit that receives communication data from any terminal with which communication is possible. In this embodiment, the communication data receiving unit 2013 receives management information from the change dispenser 12 with which communication has started.
The communication data transmission unit 2014 is a functional unit that transmits communication data to any terminal with which communication is possible. In the present embodiment, the management information received from the change machine 12 is transmitted to a higher-level terminal such as an administrator terminal or a management server that manages the management information of the change machine 12. In the present embodiment, the smartphone 20 is used as an example of the administrator terminal. However, the administrator terminal may also be a tablet computer or a desktop computer.
The display control unit 2015 is a functional unit that controls information to be displayed on the operation display unit 202. The information here includes screens of web pages on the Internet and screens of application programs.

<Communication Operation>
<Communication between POS system and smartphone>
The communication operations executed by the in-store system 1 (see FIG. 1) will be described below with reference to FIGS.
Fig. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a communication operation executed by the POS system 10. Fig. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a communication operation executed by the smartphone 20.
The symbol S in the figures always means a step.

Although each of FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 shows the communication operation within the POS system 10 and the communication operation of the smartphone 20 separately, the communication operations of the POS system 10 and the smartphone 20 are executed on the premise that they communicate with each other.
First, the communication operation of the POS system 10 will be described with reference to FIG.
The POS register 11 judges whether a clerk ID has been input (step 1). Specifically, it judges whether a clerk ID has been input on the register clerk registration screen. The clerk ID is input when the store opens or when the clerk takes over.

As long as a negative result is obtained in step 1, the POS register 11 repeats the determination in step 1.
If a positive result is obtained in step 1, the POS register 11 notifies the change dispenser 12 of the person in charge ID (step 2). The notification here is made using the communication cable 13 (see FIG. 2).
Thereafter, the POS register 11 activates a settlement function in cooperation with the change dispenser 12 (step 3). Note that the order in which steps 2 and 3 are performed does not matter.

On the other hand, the change dispenser 12 judges whether or not the person in charge ID has been received from the POS register 11 (step 11). Specifically, it is judged whether or not the person in charge ID has been accepted from the communication cable 13.
As long as a negative result is obtained in step 11, the change dispenser 12 repeats the determination in step 11.
If a positive result is obtained in step 11, the change machine 12 broadcasts a communication request including the received person in charge ID (step 12). In the present embodiment, Bluetooth is used to broadcast the communication request.

Next, the change machine 12 determines whether any smartphone 20 has responded within a predetermined time (step 13). The predetermined time may be set as an initial value, or may be changed by an administrator of the in-store system 1 or the like. The predetermined time may be, for example, a few seconds.
Here, when there is a response, it means that there is a response from the smartphone 20 carried by the cashier corresponding to the cashier ID included in the communication request. The response here is an automatic response by a program running on the smartphone 20. For example, if the cashier has turned off the power to the smartphone 20, no response to the communication request will be received.

If no response is received from the smartphone 20, the change machine 12 obtains a negative result in step 13. In this case, the change machine 12 records an abnormality flag and starts operation without cooperation with the smartphone 20 (step 14). Even without communication with the smartphone 20, the change machine 12 deposits and dispenses money in cooperation with the POS register 11.
Next, the change dispenser 12 notifies the POS register 11 of an abnormality flag (step 15).

Thereafter, the change dispenser 12 periodically broadcasts the person in charge ID received from the POS register 11 (step 16). This is because there is a possibility that communication with the target smartphone 20 will be possible by leaving a certain period of time.
Of course, even if communication with the smartphone 20 carried by the current cashier is not realized, the unsent management information can be sent when communication with the smartphone 20 carried by another cashier becomes possible. For this reason, it is also possible not to provide step 16.

Incidentally, after executing step 3, the POS register 11 determines whether or not an abnormality flag has been received (step 4).
As long as a negative result is obtained in step 4, the POS register 11 repeats the determination in step 4.
On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 4, the POS register 11 displays on the operation screen that the smartphone 20 is not connected (step 5). This display enables the cashier to notice that the smartphone 20 he or she carries is not turned on, for example.

Returning to the explanation of step 13.
If any smartphone 20 responds to the communication request within the predetermined time, the change dispenser 12 obtains a positive result in step 13. When cashier A is operating the POS system 10, a response is received from smartphone 20A.
In this case, the change machine 12 starts cooperation with the responding smartphone (step 17).

Next, the change dispenser 12 transmits the management information managed by the machine to the linked smartphone 20 (step 18). The transmission of the management information here is performed at a predetermined timing or when there is untransmitted management information. Examples of the predetermined timing include when there is a surplus or shortage of any of the coins stored in the machine or when a shortage of consumables such as receipt paper is expected.

Next, the change dispenser 12 determines whether communication has been interrupted (step 19). Note that the interruption of communication here is assumed to be due to a reason other than a change of cashier.
If a negative result is obtained in step 19, the change machine 12 returns to step 18 and continues transmitting the management information to the corresponding smartphone 20.
On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 19, the change machine 12 records an abnormality flag and starts operating without linking with the smartphone 20 (step 20).

Thereafter, the change dispenser 12 notifies the POS register 11 of an abnormality flag (step 21).
After step 21, the change machine 12 determines whether communication has resumed (step 22).
As long as a negative result is obtained in step 22, the change machine 12 repeats the determination in step 21.
On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 22, the change machine 12 transmits unsent management information managed by the change machine 12 to the linked smartphone 20 (step 23). Of course, if there is no unsent management information, it is not necessary to transmit the management information in step 22.

Next, the communication operation of the smartphone 20 will be described with reference to FIG.
The smartphone 20 determines whether or not a communication request has been received from the change machine 12 (step 31).
As long as a negative result is obtained in step 31 , the smartphone 20 repeats the determination in step 31 .
On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 31, the smartphone 20 extracts the person in charge ID from the communication request (step 32).

Next, the smartphone 20 compares the extracted person in charge ID with the person in charge ID registered in the smartphone 20 (step 33).
Next, the smartphone 20 determines whether the two IDs match (step 34).
If a negative result is obtained in step 34 , the smartphone 20 returns to step 31 since the communication request is not addressed to the smartphone 20 .
On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 34, the smartphone 20 responds to the change machine 12 that sent the communication request (step 35).

Next, the smartphone 20 starts cooperation with the change machine 12 (step 36).
Next, when the smartphone 20 receives the management information from the change machine 12, the smartphone 20 transmits the received management information and the like to a higher-level terminal (step 37). The higher-level terminal here refers to the smartphone 20 carried by the administrator and a management server that manages the management information.
The smartphone 20 displays management information related to the cashier who carries the device on the operation and display unit 202 (see FIG. 5) (step 38).

For example, if there is a possibility that a particular denomination of currency among those stored in the change machine 12 is over or under-represented, the smartphone 20 will display this fact on the operation display unit 202 (see FIG. 5).
Furthermore, if the cashier takes over from the predecessor and handover information exists, the smartphone 20 displays that fact on the operation display unit 202 .
In addition, the smartphone 20 displays information about errors that have occurred in the change machine 12, a shortage of receipt paper, etc., on the operation display unit 202 (see FIG. 5).

<Communication operation image>
The following describes an image of the communication operations executed by the in-store system 1 (see FIG. 1) with reference to FIG. 8 to FIG.
8A and 8B are diagrams illustrating the flow of communication operations up to the link between the POS system 10 and the smartphone 20 carried by the cashier. (A) is a diagram illustrating the broadcast of a communication request, and (B) is a diagram illustrating the state in which link with the change dispenser 12 has started in response to a response from the smartphone 20A.
In FIG. 8, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

8A, a communication request including the cashier A's clerk ID is broadcast from the change dispenser 12 to the smartphones 20 in the store. In this embodiment, Bluetooth is used for the broadcast.
8B, a response has been received from the smartphone 20A, and therefore cooperation between the change machine 12 and the smartphone 20A has begun. After cooperation has begun, management information managed by the change machine 12 is transmitted to the smartphone 20A.

9A and 9B are diagrams illustrating the flow of communication operations when cooperation between the POS system 10 and the smartphone 20 carried by the cashier fails. (A) is a diagram illustrating broadcasting a communication request, and (B) is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displayed on the display unit 111 of the POS register 11.
In FIG. 9, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 8 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

The contents of the broadcast shown in FIG. 9(A) are the same as those in FIG. 8(A).
In the case of Fig. 9 (B), since there is no response from the smartphone 20A, which is the assumed communication partner, the change machine 12 notifies the POS register 11 of an abnormality flag. The POS register 11, which receives this abnormality flag, displays a message indicating that the smartphone 20A is not connected on the display unit 111. In the case of Fig. 9 (B), a message 111A saying "Smartphone not connected" is displayed in the upper right corner of the operation screen displayed on the display unit 111. Note that the wording of the message 111A is an example.
In addition, the operation screen shown in FIG. 9(B) displays the amount of currency in stock by denomination as the length of a bar graph.

FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the transmission of management information and notifications to a higher-level device by the smartphone 20A linked to the change machine 12.
In FIG. 10, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
10, the higher-level devices are a smartphone 20E carried by an administrator and a management server 30. The smartphone 20E and the management server 30 here are an example of a management terminal. The smartphone 20E is also an example of an administrator terminal.

Here, smartphone 20E selectively notifies the manager of only predetermined information that needs to be notified to the manager among the management information received from smartphone 20A carried by cashier A. This notification is controlled by control unit 201.
The smartphone 20A in this embodiment transmits management information and notifications based on the management information via the network 40 using various types of wireless communication including Bluetooth.

The network 40 uses a mobile communication system including 4G and 5G and the Internet.
When the manager is inside the store, management information and the like is transmitted to the smartphone 20E carried by the manager via Bluetooth.
Incidentally, the smartphone 20E carried by the manager is notified of, for example, a shortage of any denomination of currency stored in the change machine 12 or the occurrence of an error that the cashier cannot handle.

The management server 30 is also notified of, for example, the operation log of the change machine 12, any shortages in the inventory of any denomination of coins stored in the change machine 12, any errors that have occurred in the change machine 12, and security information.
Although not shown in the figure, the management information and its contents that cashier A needs to know are displayed on smartphone 20A.

<Summary>
By using the in-store system 1 (see Figure 1) described in this embodiment, even if the management information managed by the change machine 12 (see Figure 1) cannot be transmitted from the POS register 11 (see Figure 1) to the manager terminal 20E (see Figure 10) or the management server 30 (see Figure 10), the management information can be transmitted to the cashier, manager, or management server 30 (see Figure 10) via the smartphone 20.
Furthermore, by using the in-store system 1 described in this embodiment, management information can be sent to a cashier, manager, or management server 30 via smartphone 20, even if the POS register 11 does not have the functionality to display the received management information.

In addition, in this embodiment, the cashier ID, which is always entered into the POS register 11, is used to automatically link the change dispenser 12 and the smartphone 20. This allows communication between the POS system 10 (see FIG. 1) and the management terminal that manages the management information of the change dispenser 12 to be realized without imposing a burden on the cashier, such as requiring them to perform special operations.

<Embodiment 2>
Fig. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of an in-store system 1 to which the second embodiment is applied. In Fig. 11, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
The external configuration and basic functional configuration of the POS system 10 used in this embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment.
However, in the case of FIG. 11 , the change machine 12 uses a mobile communication system called 4G communication or 5G communication to communicate with the smartphone 20A carried by the cashier A.

For this reason, the change machine 12 has a SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card attached thereto, or electronically issued SIM information is stored in a semiconductor memory.
FIG. 11 illustrates the change machine 12 communicating with a base station 50 for 4G and 5G communications.

12A and 12B are diagrams illustrating the flow of communication operations up to the link between the POS system 10 and the smartphone 20 carried by the cashier. (A) is a diagram illustrating the broadcast of a communication request, and (B) is a diagram illustrating the state in which link with the change dispenser 12 has started in response to a response from the smartphone 20A.
In FIG. 12, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 11 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the case of FIG. 12(A), the communication request from the change machine 12 is broadcast to the smartphones 20 in the store via the base station 50, which is different from the first embodiment.
12B, responses from the smartphone 20A to the change machine 12 and transmission of management information from the change machine 12 to the smartphone 20A are also performed via the base station 50, which is different from the first embodiment.

<Third embodiment>
Fig. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of an in-store system 1 to which the third embodiment is applied. In Fig. 13, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
13, the POS register 11 is connected to a wired LAN 60. To the wired LAN 60, a plurality of POS systems 10 and an access point AP are connected.
In this embodiment, the change machine 12 is capable of communicating with the smartphone 20 via an access point AP.

However, in this embodiment, it is assumed that the POS register 11 does not have a function for receiving management information from the change machine 12, or does not have a function for transmitting the received management information to the management server 30 (see Figure 10) via the wired LAN 60.
Even in this network environment, the change machine 12 can broadcast a communication request to smartphones 20 in the store via the access point AP, and send management information and necessary notifications to the smartphone 20A carried by cashier A who is operating the POS system 10.
In addition, the transmission of management information and the like to a management server 30 on the Internet (see FIG. 10) can also be realized via the linked smartphone 20.

<Other embodiments>
(1) Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope of the above-mentioned embodiment. It is clear from the claims that various modifications and improvements to the above-mentioned embodiment are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

(2) For example, in the above-described embodiment, only when no response is received to the broadcast of a communication request, message 111A indicating a lack of connection to smartphone 20 is displayed on display unit 111 (see FIG. 3) of POS register 11. However, a message with a different content may also be displayed.
14A and 14B are diagrams illustrating an example of a message displayed when a communication request is broadcast, in which (A) shows an example of a screen when a response to the communication request is confirmed, and (B) shows another example of a screen when a response to the communication request is not confirmed.

In the upper right corner of the display unit 111 shown in FIG. 14(A), a message 111B saying "Connecting to smartphone" is displayed. This message lets the cashier know that information can be received via the smartphone 20 that the cashier carries. Note that message 111B may be displayed on the display unit 111 only if the cashier requests that it be displayed.

In the upper right corner of the display unit 111 shown in FIG. 14(B), a message 111C saying "Check the power of your smartphone" is displayed. In the first embodiment, the cashier could only know that the smartphone 20 carried by the cashier was not connected to the change machine 12, but the example screen shown in FIG. 14(B) displays possible reasons why the smartphone 20 is not connected to the change machine 12. Therefore, even a cashier who is not accustomed to operating the cashier can easily resolve the disconnection between the smartphone 20 and the change machine 12. Note that "Check the power of your smartphone" is one example of a reason for the disconnection, and possible reasons may be displayed in order on the display unit 111.

(3) In the above-described embodiment, communication is established with the smartphone 20A from the change machine 12 (see FIG. 1), and management information of the change machine 12 is transmitted to the manager terminal 20E (see FIG. 10) or the management server 30 (see FIG. 10) via the smartphone 20A with which communication has been established. However, communication with the smartphone 20A is established from the POS register 11 (see FIG. 1), which receives management information from the change machine 12, may also be established, and management information of the change machine 12 may be transmitted to the manager terminal 20E (see FIG. 10) or the management server 30 (see FIG. 10) via the smartphone 20A with which communication has been established.
Note that any of the methods described in the first to third embodiments may be used to establish communication from the POS register 11 to the smartphone 20A carried by the cashier A. That is, Bluetooth may be used, a mobile communication system such as 4G or 5G may be used, or a wired LAN may be used.

(4) In the above embodiment, the POS system 10 is assumed as an example of an input system, but application to an attendance management system and other systems is also possible.
When applied to an attendance management system, the POS system 10 is assumed to be an attendance management device, for example.
The attendance management device here is a device that requires a login to record attendance and leaving times, and records the login time as the attendance time or leaving time.

This type of attendance management device may not have the function to upload management information such as error information and operation logs. Even in this case, it is possible to send a communication request to a smartphone carried by a logged-in employee, and after communication is established, send management information to the corresponding smartphone.
The mechanism described in the above-mentioned embodiment can be applied to devices that require a login operation during operation and that do not have the function of uploading management information such as error information and operation logs via a network, or that require the construction or modification of a new network to send management information.

1...in-store system, 10...POS system, 11...POS register, 12...change machine, 13...communication cable, 20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E...smartphone, 30...management server, 40...network, 50...base station, 110, 120, 201...control unit, 111A, 111B, 111C...message, 1102...person in charge ID reception unit, 1103...person in charge ID notification unit, 1201...person in charge ID reception unit, 1202...communication request transmission unit, 1281...management information, 2011...communication request reception unit, 2012...communication request processing unit

Claims (15)

A communication system having an input system and a mobile terminal,
The input system includes:
A reception means for receiving first information that identifies a staff member who uses the system;
a transmitting means for transmitting a communication request including the first information to the mobile terminal,
The mobile terminal includes:
A storage means for storing second information for identifying an attendant using the terminal;
a receiving means for receiving the communication request from the input system;
and a control means for controlling communication with the input system,
The control means
controlling communication with the input system based on the first information included in the communication request received by the receiving means and the second information stored in the storage means, and controlling so as to permit communication with the input system when the first information and the second information match;
A communication system comprising: The input system includes:
a notification means for notifying a lack of connection with the mobile terminal when communication with the mobile terminal is not confirmed within a predetermined time from the transmission of the communication request;
2. The communication system according to claim 1 . The notification means is a display unit.
3. The communication system according to claim 2 . The mobile terminal includes:
receiving management information from said input system in communication;
The communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 3 . The mobile terminal includes:
Controlling a notification to an attendant using the terminal based on the management information received from the input system.
5. The communication system according to claim 4 . The system further includes an administrator terminal used by an administrator,
The mobile terminal used by the attendant is
a first transmission means for transmitting the management information to the manager terminal;
the administrator terminal used by the administrator controls a notification to the administrator based on the management information received from the mobile terminal;
6. A communication system according to claim 4 or 5 . Further comprising a management server;
The mobile terminal includes:
a second transmission means for transmitting the management information received from the input system to the management server;
The communication system according to any one of claims 4 to 6 . the input system includes a POS terminal;
The first information is information about a staff member who uses the POS terminal.
The communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 7 . The input system further includes a currency processing device communicatively connected to the POS terminal,
The POS terminal notifies the currency processing device of the first information,
the transmitting means transmits the communication request including the first information to the mobile terminal;
9. The communication system according to claim 8 . The currency processing device executes a process related to a settlement in cooperation with the POS terminal even if communication with the mobile terminal is not confirmed.
10. The communication system of claim 9 . a receiving means for receiving a communication request including first information identifying an attendant using the input system from the input system;
A storage means for storing second information for identifying an attendant using the terminal;
A control means for controlling communication with the input system;
having
The control means
controlling communication with the input system based on the first information included in the communication request received by the receiving means and the second information stored in the storage means, and controlling so as to permit communication with the input system when the first information and the second information match;
A mobile terminal characterized by: The control means
Controlling notification to an attendant using the terminal based on the management information received from the input system.
12. The mobile terminal according to claim 11 . A currency processing device communicably connected to a POS terminal,
a receiving means for receiving, from the POS terminal, first information identifying a staff member using the POS terminal;
a transmitting means for transmitting a communication request including the first information;
a notification means for notifying a non-connection with the mobile terminal when a communication corresponding to the communication request is not confirmed within a predetermined time from the transmission of the communication request;
A currency processing device having the above structure. A computer provided in the mobile terminal,
receiving a communication request from the input system, the communication request including first information identifying an attendant using the input system;
a function of controlling to permit communication with the input system when the first information included in the received communication request matches the second information that identifies the staff member using the terminal; and
A program to achieve this. A computer provided in the currency processing device,
receiving, from the POS terminal, first information identifying a staff member using the POS terminal that is communicably connected;
a function of transmitting a communication request including the first information;
a function of notifying a non-connection with the mobile terminal when a communication corresponding to the communication request is not confirmed within a predetermined time from the transmission of the communication request;
A program to achieve this.