JP7728611B2 - System and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a system and a program.

Conventionally, there is known a product sales data processing system that includes a registration device where a store clerk registers products and a settlement device where a customer settles the bill. The settlement device is connected to an automatic change dispenser. An automatic change dispenser is used, for example, when settling the price of products registered on the registration device with cash. Furthermore, depending on customer usage, the automatic change dispenser may enter a near-full state. A near-full state is a state in which the number of coins stored in the automatic change dispenser is close to the maximum allowable limit. When the automatic change dispenser enters a near-full state, the settlement device issues a warning to that effect. For example, the settlement device may issue a warning by lighting up a sign pole installed on the settlement device, displaying a status indicating this on a screen installed on the settlement device, or displaying a screen indicating this on a monitoring device.

Related technologies have been disclosed that involve dispensing money of a denomination determined to be overflowing into a storage bag, and displaying information indicating that a storage bag is not installed on an attendant PC (a PC used by store clerks) if a storage bag is not installed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-162023

However, with conventional technology, whenever an automatic change dispenser warning is issued, a store clerk must go to the settlement device to which the automatic change dispenser is connected and perform the operation to put the settlement device into a paused state, which creates the problem of reduced work efficiency for the store clerk.

The present invention was made in light of these circumstances, and its purpose is to provide technology that can prevent a decline in store clerk work efficiency.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention is a settlement device that includes a first storage unit that stores coins and a second storage unit that can store the coins stored in the first storage unit, and is capable of switching from a normal state in which settlement processing is possible to a paused state in which settlement processing is impossible when the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit reaches a predetermined amount, and in the paused state, recovers some of the coins stored in the first storage unit into the second storage unit.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer of a settlement device that has a first storage unit that stores coins and a second storage unit that can store the coins stored in the first storage unit to execute a process that, when the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit reaches a predetermined amount, causes the device to transition from a normal state in which settlement processing is possible to a suspended state in which settlement processing is impossible, and in the suspended state makes some of the coins stored in the first storage unit retrievable in the second storage unit.

1 is an explanatory diagram showing a network configuration of a POS (Point Of Sales) system 1 according to a first embodiment. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the appearance of a POS register 20. FIG. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a POS register 20. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of an automatic change dispenser 204. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 207 of the registration device 20R. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 207 of the registration device 20R. 10A and 10B are explanatory diagrams showing examples of screens displayed on the respective devices. FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the POS system 1. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by the settlement device 20P according to the first embodiment. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by the settlement device 20P according to the first embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed by a registration device 20R according to the first embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed by a registration device 20R according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the set number of coins for each denomination. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the number of coins currently held by denomination for each POS register 20. FIG. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 207 of the registration device 20R. FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the POS system 1 according to the second embodiment.

(Embodiment 1)
(Network configuration of POS system 1)
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the network configuration of a POS (Point Of Sales) system 1 according to a first embodiment. The POS system 1 is an example of a product sales data processing system. As shown in FIG. 1, the POS system 1 includes a store controller 10, a monitoring device 11, and multiple POS registers 20-0 to 20-n. Each device is connected via a LAN (Local Area Network).

The store controller 10 is a computer (e.g., a server) that controls the POS system 1. The store controller 10 stores, for example, a product master. The product master is a file that stores product information such as product identification information (e.g., JAN code), product name, and sales price for each product. The store controller 10 is also sometimes referred to as a management device or a higher-level device. The monitoring device 11 is a computer equipped with a display screen (monitor) that monitors multiple POS registers 20. The monitoring device 11 is sometimes referred to as an assist monitor.

POS registers 20-0 to 20-n are devices that primarily perform the registration process, which registers products to be purchased, and the settlement process (also referred to as accounting or payment process), which settles the price of the registered products. In other words, POS registers 20-0 to 20-n are devices that primarily combine the functions of a registration device that performs registration processing and the functions of a settlement device that performs settlement processing. Details will be described later, but POS registers 20-0 to 20-n can be set to one of three modes: a normal mode in which a store clerk and a customer conduct transactions face-to-face; a settlement-only mode in which products registered at other POS registers 20-0 to 20-n are settled; or a full-self-service mode in which customers register products and settle the payments themselves.

In this embodiment, the POS register 20-0 functions as a registration device where a store clerk registers items. In other words, the POS register 20-0 is set to normal mode. Below, the POS register 20-0 may be referred to as the "registration device 20R."

POS registers 20-1 to 20-n also function as payment devices where customers settle their bills. In other words, POS registers 20-1 to 20-n are set to a payment-only mode. Below, POS registers 20-1 to 20-n may be referred to as "payment devices 20P1 to 20Pn." When there is no particular distinction between POS registers 20-1 to 20-n, they may also be referred to as "payment device 20P." When there is no particular distinction between registration device 20R and payment device 20P, POS registers 20-0 to 20-n may also be referred to as "POS register 20."

The POS register 20 is an example of a product sales data processing device. The POS register 20 is a computer device (POS register) that registers products, handles payments, and manages sales data. The store controller 10, monitoring device 11, and POS register 20 are connected to each other via a wired or wireless connection, for example, via a LAN (Local Area Network).

(External view of POS register 20)
Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the appearance of the POS register 20. Figure 2(A) is a perspective view of the POS register 20 as seen from the customer side. Figure 2(B) is a perspective view of the POS register 20 as seen from the store clerk side. The POS register 20 may be of a type that is placed on a counter or desk.

As shown in FIG. 2, the POS register 20 includes a customer display unit 201, a customer scanner unit 202, a card payment unit 203, an automatic change dispenser 204, an audio output unit 205, a printing unit 206, a store clerk display unit 207, a key operation unit 208, and a store clerk scanner unit 209. Although not shown, the POS register 20 may also include a sign pole that can be illuminated in a predetermined lighting pattern.

The customer display unit 201 is a display for customers. The customer display unit 201 is, for example, a touch panel. The customer display unit 201 displays various information and accepts various inputs from customers. For example, the customer display unit 201 displays preset keys, which are buttons for selecting products, and accepts operation (pressing) of the preset keys.

The customer-side scanner unit 202 is a scanner unit for customers. The customer-side scanner unit 202 optically reads various types of information. For example, the customer-side scanner unit 202 optically reads codes (barcodes, two-dimensional codes, etc.) attached to products. In addition, the customer-side scanner unit 202 can also read codes (barcodes, two-dimensional codes, etc.) printed on various cards (e.g., membership cards, point cards, etc.).

The card payment unit 203 performs payments using various cards. The various cards referred to here include, for example, credit cards, prepaid cards such as transportation cards, and point cards. Furthermore, the various cards may be contact cards (IC cards, magnetic cards) or contactless cards (IC cards).

The card payment unit 203 includes, for example, a card reading unit, a display unit, and an operation unit. The card reading unit reads information from various cards. If the card is a magnetic card, the card reading unit magnetically reads the card information, and if the card is an IC card, the card information is read electrically. The display unit of the card payment unit 203 displays various information.

For example, when a credit card is used, the display unit displays the payment amount and a masked PIN number. The operation unit of the card payment unit 203 also accepts various operations from customers or store staff. For example, when a credit card is used, the operation unit accepts a switching operation to use a credit card from a staff member, and also accepts input of a PIN number from the customer.

The automatic change dispenser 204 is a cash settlement unit that handles cash settlements. The automatic change dispenser 204 has an input port for banknotes and coins, and an output port for banknotes and coins. The input port and output port each have sensors that detect banknotes and coins, and are positioned facing the customer. The input port accepts cash from customers. The output port outputs change (banknotes and coins). The automatic change dispenser 204 calculates the total amount of cash inserted into the input port, calculates the change amount, which is the difference between the total amount and the purchase amount, and outputs the change and change from the output port.

The audio output unit 205 is a speaker that outputs audio. The audio output unit 205 outputs, for example, audio guidance. The audio guidance may be, for example, guidance to assist the customer in registering a product or guidance to assist in payment.

The printing unit 206 is a printer device that issues various media such as receipts. The printing unit 206 has an outlet for issuing receipts. The printing unit 206 is rotatable, for example, parallel to the horizontal direction, and the direction of the outlet can be changed from the store clerk side to the customer side, or from the customer side to the store clerk side. The printing unit 206 may be rotated manually or by the driving force of a motor. Furthermore, if the printing unit 206 is configured to rotate by the driving force of a motor, it may rotate according to the operating mode of the POS register 20, which will be described later.

The clerk display unit 207 is a display for the clerk. The clerk display unit 207 is, for example, a touch panel. The clerk display unit 207 displays various information and accepts various inputs from the clerk. For example, the clerk display unit 207 displays preset keys, which are buttons for selecting products, and accepts operation (pressing) of these preset keys.

The key operation unit 208 is a hardware key that accepts various inputs from the store clerk. For example, the key operation unit 208 has keys corresponding to products and quantities, and accepts product and quantity selections from the store clerk.

The clerk scanner unit 209 is a scanner unit for use by clerks. The clerk scanner unit 209 optically reads various types of information. For example, the clerk scanner unit 209 reads codes. Codes include barcodes and two-dimensional codes. Examples of codes include codes attached to products, codes attached to clerk name tags, and codes printed on various cards (e.g., membership cards, point cards, etc.).

(Hardware configuration of POS register 20)
Next, the hardware configuration of the POS register 20 will be described. Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the POS register 20. Note that, below, the contents described in Figure 2 will be omitted as appropriate. In Figure 3, the POS register 20 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 301, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 302, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 303, a hard disk 304, a communication unit 305, a customer display unit 201, a customer scanner unit 202, a card payment unit 203, an automatic change dispenser 204, an audio output unit 205, a printing unit 206, a store clerk display unit 207, a key operation unit 208, and a store clerk scanner unit 209. These components can communicate with each other via a bus.

The CPU 301 is a central processing unit that controls the operation of the POS register 20 by reading and executing a program (for example, a product sales data processing program) stored in the ROM 302 .
The ROM 302 is a read-only memory that stores various types of information used by the CPU 301, including programs.

RAM 303 is a read/write memory that stores various information. For example, RAM 303 stores registration information (registration data) generated in the registration process for registering products, settlement information (settlement data) generated in the settlement process for settling (paying for) purchased products, and information obtained from external devices.

The hard disk 304 stores various types of information. For example, the hard disk 304 may store programs executed by the CPU 301 instead of the ROM 302. The hard disk 304 may also store information generated during various processes or information obtained from external sources instead of the RAM 303.

(Operation mode of POS register 20)
Next, the operating modes of the POS register 20 will be described. The POS register 20 operates in one of several operating modes. The operating modes described below are those related to registration and settlement processes during normal business operations, and specifically include a normal mode (face-to-face self-service mode), a checkout-only mode, and a full self-service mode.

The multiple operating modes also include tally mode, maintenance mode, and training mode. tally mode is a mode for tallying and querying sales, inventory, etc. maintenance mode is a mode used by store clerks and maintenance personnel to perform setup and maintenance work training training. training mode is a mode used by new store clerks to train how to use the POS register 20.

(Regarding normal mode)
The normal mode (face-to-face self-service mode) is an operating mode in which product registration by the clerk is enabled and product registration by the customer is disabled. Specifically, in the normal mode, product registration using the clerk display unit 207, key operation unit 208, and clerk scanner unit 209 is enabled, and product registration using the customer display unit 201 and customer scanner unit 202 is disabled. As a result, in the normal mode, the registration process can be performed by the clerk without being performed by the customer. The POS register 20 set in the normal mode is the registration device 20R.

The normal mode is an operating mode in which coin insertion is enabled. Therefore, in the normal mode, coin insertion can be accepted even while product registration processing is being performed. In the normal mode, the settlement process is performed by inserting coins into the automatic change dispenser 204 or by reading a card with the card settlement unit 203. The settlement process is performed after the registration process is performed by the store clerk.

Furthermore, in normal mode, once the registration process is complete, the POS register 20 (registration device 20R) can also send registration information for the registered product to the POS register 20 (payment device 20P) in transaction-only mode.

(Regarding accounting-only mode)
The checkout-only mode is an operating mode in which product registration on the clerk side and product registration on the customer side are disabled and settlement is enabled. Specifically, in the checkout-only mode, product registration using the clerk display unit 207, key operation unit 208, and clerk scanner unit 209 and product registration using the customer display unit 201 and customer scanner unit 202 are disabled. This makes it possible to prevent registration processing on the clerk side and customer side in normal mode. The POS register 20 set in the checkout-only mode is the settlement device 20P.

The accounting-only mode is an operating mode in which coin insertion is enabled. In the accounting-only mode, the settlement process is carried out using the registration information sent from the registration device 20R. For example, in the accounting-only mode, it is possible to accept coin insertion by receiving registration information from the registration device 20R. In the accounting-only mode, the settlement process is carried out by inserting coins into the automatic change dispenser 204 or by reading a card with the card settlement unit 203.

(About Full Selfie Mode)
The full self-service mode is an operating mode that enables product registration on the customer side. Specifically, the full self-service mode is a mode that enables product registration using the customer side display unit 201 and the customer side scanner unit 202. As a result, in the full self-service mode, the customer side can perform the registration process.

In addition, in full self-service mode, product registration by the store clerk may also be enabled. Specifically, in full self-service mode, product registration using the store clerk scanner unit 209, store clerk display unit 207, and key operation unit 208 may be enabled. This allows registration processing to be performed on both the store clerk and customer sides in full self-service mode. However, in full self-service mode, product registration by the store clerk may be enabled or disabled by operation of the store clerk.

Furthermore, full self-service mode is an operating mode in which coin insertion is enabled. Therefore, in full self-service mode, coin insertion can be accepted even while product registration processing is being performed. In full self-service mode, settlement processing is performed by inserting coins into the automatic change dispenser 204 or by reading a card with the card settlement unit 203. Settlement processing is performed after registration processing is performed by either the customer or the store clerk.

(Switching between operation modes)
Next, we will explain how the POS register 20 switches its operating mode. The operating mode can be switched, for example, by an explicit mode switching operation by a store clerk or by reading a store clerk code. The operating mode can also be switched based on a time condition, for example. A time condition could be, for example, the passage of a predetermined time since the last operation or the arrival of a switching time according to a preset schedule. The operating mode can also be switched based on a mode switching command from another device (such as another POS register 20, a monitoring device, or a mobile terminal). It is assumed that the operating mode is switched by a store clerk, not by a customer.

(Configuration of the automatic change dispenser)
4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of the automatic change dispenser 204. In FIG. 4, the automatic change dispenser 204 includes a first storage unit 401 and a second storage unit 402. The automatic change dispenser 204 also includes an identification unit that identifies denominations, a sorting unit that sorts coins by denomination, and a transport unit that transports coins. The automatic change dispenser 204 also has a function of detecting a near-full state in which the number of coins in the first storage unit 401 is close to the allowable limit that can be stored in the first storage unit 401, and a near-end state in which the number of coins in the first storage unit 401 is low. For example, the automatic change dispenser 204 sets the number of coins that constitutes the near-full state and the number of coins that constitutes the near-end state for each denomination.

The automatic change dispenser 204 also has a function (mechanism) to move coins stored in the first storage section 401 to the second storage section 402. Since this function is well-known technology, detailed explanation will be omitted.

The automatic change dispenser 204 counts the coins inserted and stores them in the first storage unit 401 under the control of the CPU 301. The automatic change dispenser 204 also counts the coins to be released from the first storage unit 401 (for example, coins to be used as change at the time of payment) and releases them from the outlet. For this reason, the first storage unit 401 stores inserted coins, such as coins deposited at the time of payment and coins replenished at the time of refilling, by denomination. The first storage unit 401 is configured to be non-detachable from the automatic change dispenser 204. The first storage unit 401 may also be configured to be detachable from the automatic change dispenser 204.

The second storage unit 402 is configured to be detachable from the automatic change dispenser 204. When removed from the automatic change dispenser 204, the second storage unit 402 can be carried by a store clerk. The automatic change dispenser 204 is locked in its stored state so that it cannot be carried by anyone without the key. The second storage unit 402 is, for example, box-shaped. Note that the second storage unit 402 may also be bag-shaped.

The second storage unit 402 collects the coins stored in the first storage unit 401. For example, when collecting the coins stored in the first storage unit 401 after closing time, the automatic change dispenser 204 moves the coins stored in the first storage unit 401 to the second storage unit 402 in response to an operation by a store clerk. The automatic change dispenser 204 can also move the coins in the first storage unit 401 to the second storage unit 402 by denomination.

For example, if the first storage unit 401 contains coins of a certain denomination that are near full, the automatic change dispenser 204 can, in response to a store clerk's operation, move the coins of that denomination from the first storage unit 401 to the second storage unit 402. Specifically, the automatic change dispenser 204 counts the coins to be moved from the first storage unit 401 to the second storage unit 402, and moves the coins stored in the first storage unit 401 to the second storage unit 402. The process of moving coins stored in the first storage unit 401 to the second storage unit 402 is referred to as "overflow processing." Note that the movement of coins from the first storage unit 401 to the second storage unit 402 does not necessarily have to be performed automatically by the automatic change dispenser 204. For example, a store clerk may manually move the coins stored in the first storage unit 401 to the second storage unit 402.

Next, we will explain how the automatic change dispenser 204 manages the number of coins remaining (number of coins stored) for each denomination. The automatic change dispenser 204 manages the number of coins remaining (number of coins stored) for each denomination under the control of the CPU 301. Specifically, the automatic change dispenser 204 manages the latest information regarding the number of coins remaining for each denomination (hereinafter referred to as "remaining change information"). For example, when coins are inserted, the automatic change dispenser 204 updates (adds) the information regarding the number of coins remaining for each denomination based on the number of coins inserted (number of coins deposited) for each denomination.

In addition, when dispensing coins, the automatic change dispenser 204 updates (subtracts) information regarding the remaining number of coins of each denomination based on the number of coins dispensed (number of coins withdrawn) of each denomination. In addition, when depositing and dispensing coins, the automatic change dispenser 204 stores deposit history information, which includes information such as the number of coins inserted of each denomination, and withdrawal history information, which includes information such as the number of coins dispensed of each denomination.

In addition, the number of coins remaining by denomination, remaining change information, deposit history information, withdrawal history information, etc. do not necessarily have to be stored in the automatic change dispenser 204, but may also be stored in the POS register 20. For example, the POS register 20 may receive the number of coins remaining by denomination, remaining change information, deposit history information, withdrawal history information, etc. from the automatic change dispenser 204 for each transaction and store the received information.

The remaining change information, deposit history information, and withdrawal history information may be stored in a memory area provided by the automatic change dispenser 204, or in an external storage device. The external storage device may be, for example, RAM or a hard disk provided in the POS register 20, or it may be a storage device provided in a device other than the POS register 20.

(Functions of the POS system 1 according to this embodiment)
Next, the functions of the POS system 1 according to this embodiment will be described. The POS system 1 comprises a registration device 20R and a settlement device 20P. The registration device 20R is operated by a store clerk to register products. The settlement device 20P is operated by a customer to settle the payments for products registered by the registration device 20R. The settlement devices are connected to an automatic change dispenser 204. The automatic change dispenser 204 comprises a first storage unit 401 and a second storage unit 402.

The payment device 20P can be in multiple states, including a normal state and a paused state. The normal state is a state in which payment processing is possible. Normal states include a standby state in which a customer is not paying (standby state) and a state in which a customer is paying.

The inactive state is a state in which settlement processing is not possible. The settlement device 20P is in the normal state when the number of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 is less than a predetermined amount. On the other hand, the settlement device 20P can switch from the normal state to the inactive state when the number of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 reaches or exceeds a predetermined amount. Specifically, the settlement device 20P can switch from the normal state to the inactive state when at least one denomination reaches the number of coins set in advance for the near-full state for each denomination. When the number of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 reaches or exceeds a predetermined amount, the automatic change dispenser 204 enters a near-full state.

The predetermined amount is not limited to the number set for a near-full state, but may also be the number set for a full state. The number set for a full state is the maximum number of coins that can be stored in the first storage unit 401. When the automatic change dispenser 204 reaches a near-full state, the settlement device 20P enters a paused state in response to a store clerk's operation. However, the settlement device 20P may also enter a paused state automatically without requiring a store clerk's operation.

Here, if the device is put into a paused state in response to a store clerk's operation, for example, the registration device 20R or the monitoring device 11 will display a confirmation message to the store clerk asking whether or not to put the device into a paused state. To be more specific, when the automatic change dispenser 204 becomes near-full, the settlement device 20P or the monitoring device 11 will send information to that effect (hereinafter referred to as "near-full information") to the registration device 20R. When the registration device 20R or the monitoring device 11 receives the near-full information, it will display a confirmation button to put the settlement device 20P into a paused state.

When the confirmation button accepts the instruction to put the settlement device 20P into a suspended state, the registration device 20R or the monitoring device 11 sends information indicating that the settlement device 20P will be put into a suspended state (hereinafter referred to as a "suspend instruction") to the settlement device 20P. The settlement device 20P enters a suspended state upon receiving the suspension instruction from the registration device 20R or the monitoring device 11. Once the settlement device 20P enters a suspended state, it sends information indicating this (hereinafter referred to as "suspend information") to the registration device 20R and the monitoring device 11.

When the payment terminal 20P is in a normal state, the registration device 20R can transmit the registration data of the products registered by the registration process to the payment terminal 20P. Specifically, the store clerk-side display unit 207 of the registration device 20R displays the payment terminal 20P in a normal state as a candidate destination. When the store clerk selects one of the candidate destinations, the registration device 20R transmits the registration data to the selected payment terminal 20P.

On the other hand, when the settlement device 20P enters a suspended state, i.e., when the registration device 20R receives suspension information from the settlement device 20P, the registration device 20R prohibits sending registration data to the settlement device 20P. Specifically, the clerk-side display unit 207 of the registration device 20R does not display the suspended settlement device 20P as a candidate destination. For example, a suspended settlement device 20P is displayed as being in a suspended state, and is not selectable as a destination for sending registration data. Therefore, if there is a suspended settlement device 20P, the registration device 20R will either complete the settlement process on its own device or send the registration data to a settlement device 20P in a normal state.

Even when the POS register 20 is set to full self-service mode, it can still process payments by receiving registration data from the registration device 20R. Specifically, a POS register 20 set to full self-service mode switches to accounting-only mode by receiving registration data from the registration device 20R. A POS register 20 set to full self-service mode may also enter a suspended state. Even when a POS register 20 set to full self-service mode enters a suspended state, the registration device 20R prohibits the transmission of registration data to that POS register 20.

Here, it is expected that the first storage unit 401 will reach a near-full state several times during the day. Furthermore, coins moved to the second storage unit 402 will be stored there until closing time. For this reason, coins stored in the first storage unit 401 may be moved to the second storage unit 402 in small amounts (e.g., 10 to 20 coins) at a time, either through overflow processing or manually by a store clerk, as appropriate. In other words, rather than moving all the coins in the first storage unit 401 to the second storage unit 402 at once, small amounts of coins may be moved to the second storage unit 402 to shorten the time the settlement device is in a dormant state. For example, a small amount of coins may be moved to the second storage unit 402 when a transaction is completed. This reduces the time the settlement device 20P is unavailable due to a dormant state.

For example, the number of coins stored in the first storage section 401 may be a predetermined number expected to be used in a single transaction. The predetermined number may be, for example, nine each of 1 yen coins, 10 yen coins, and 100 yen coins, five each of 5 yen coins, 50 yen coins, and 500 yen coins, nine 1000 yen bills, or five 5000 yen bills. Furthermore, since the legal limit on the number of coins that can be used in a single transaction is 20, the predetermined number of coins may be a number corresponding to this number (for example, 20).

(Regarding notification of near-full state)
When the automatic change dispenser 204 reaches a near-full state, the settlement device 20P or the monitoring device 11 notifies the user that the automatic change dispenser 204 has reached a near-full state. The settlement device 20P may notify the user that the automatic change dispenser 204 has reached a near-full state, for example, by displaying the screen of the customer-side display unit 201, by issuing an audible notification from the audio output unit 205, or by lighting up a sign pole (not shown) in a predetermined manner. Note that the notification that the automatic change dispenser 20P has reached a near-full state is not necessarily made by the settlement device 20P, but is made by the registration device 20R, as described below.

Furthermore, when the automatic change dispenser 204 reaches a near-full state, the settlement device 20P or the monitoring device 11 transmits near-full information to the registration device 20R. When the registration device 20R receives the near-full information, it notifies the user that the automatic change dispenser 204 of the settlement device 20P has reached a near-full state. The notification of the near-full state made by the registration device 20R may be made, for example, via the display screen of the clerk-side display unit 207 or by audio from the audio output unit 205.

(Regarding collection of coins stored in the first storage unit 401)
When the automatic change dispenser 204 becomes near-full, it performs a recovery process (overflow process) to recover some of the coins stored in the first storage unit 401 into the second storage unit 402. The automatic change dispenser 204 may perform the overflow process automatically, or in response to an operation by a store clerk.

Here, we will explain how overflow processing is performed in response to a store clerk's operation. When the automatic change dispenser 204 becomes nearly full, the settlement device 20P displays a selection screen asking whether or not to perform overflow processing. The selection screen may be displayed on the customer display unit 201 or the store clerk display unit 207. When the selection screen accepts the start of overflow processing, the settlement device 20P causes the automatic change dispenser 204 to begin overflow processing.

Furthermore, if the selection screen does not accept the start of overflow processing, that is, for example, if the selection not to start overflow processing is accepted, overflow processing will not be started. In this case, the store clerk manually collects the coins stored in the first storage unit 401 into the second storage unit 402 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "manual collection"). Note that even if the bank becomes near-full, the near-full state may be resolved by dispensing more of the denomination that became near-full in the subsequent settlement process.

Depending on the structure of the automatic change dispenser 204, overflow processing may take time, and manual collection by a store clerk may be completed more quickly than overflow processing. For this reason, manual collection by a store clerk may take less time to return from a paused state to a normal state. Therefore, depending on the congestion situation (when the machine is relatively quiet), manual collection by a store clerk may be performed.

Furthermore, this type of selection screen is not limited to being displayed on the settlement device 20P, but is also displayed on the registration device 20R and monitoring device 11. Specifically, when the registration device 20R or monitoring device 11 receives near-full information from the settlement device 20P, it displays a selection screen asking whether or not to cause the automatic change dispenser 204 of the settlement device 20P to perform overflow processing. In the case of the registration device 20R, the selection screen is displayed on the store clerk display unit 207, and in the case of the monitoring device 11, it is displayed on the monitor.

When the selection screen accepts the start of overflow processing, the registration device 20R or the monitoring device 11 sends information to start overflow processing (hereinafter referred to as an "overflow start instruction") to the settlement device 20P. When the settlement device 20P receives the overflow start instruction from the registration device 20R or the monitoring device 11, it causes the automatic change dispenser 204 to start overflow processing.

Furthermore, if the selection screen displayed on the registration device 20R or monitoring device 11 does not accept the start of overflow processing, that is, if a selection is made not to start overflow processing, for example, an overflow start instruction will not be sent. In this case, a store clerk will go to the settlement device 20P and manually collect the bills.

The number of coins to be collected by the second storage unit 402 may be any number that causes the number of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 to fall below the number set for the near-full state. Details will be described later using Figure 11, but a set number for the near-end state, a set number for the surplus, and a set number for the near-end state are set for each denomination. The relationship between the set numbers can be expressed using an inequality sign as "set number for the near-end state < set number for the surplus < set number for the near-end state." For example, the number of coins to be collected by the second storage unit 402 may be a number that causes the number of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 to be equal to or greater than the set number for the surplus, but less than the set number for the near-full state.

(Removing the near-full state)
The settlement device 20P returns from the paused state to the normal state when the near-full state is resolved. The near-full state is resolved when the coins stored in the first storage unit 401 are stored in the second storage unit 402 and the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 falls below a predetermined amount. When the near-full state is resolved, the settlement device 20P may automatically return from the paused state to the normal state, or may display a confirmation button and return from the paused state to the normal state after a store clerk presses the confirmation button. This confirmation button may be displayed on at least one of the settlement device 20P, the registration device 20R, and the monitoring device 11.

When the settlement device 20P returns to normal operation from a suspended state, it transmits information indicating this (hereinafter referred to as "return information") to the registration device 20R. Upon receiving the return information from the settlement device 20P, the registration device 20R lifts the prohibition on sending registration data to the settlement device 20P. In other words, when the settlement device 20P returns to normal operation, the registration device 20R lifts the prohibition on sending registration data.

(Regarding settlement during suspension)
The settlement device 20P is capable of performing a first settlement process that includes a settlement process using cash, and a second settlement process that does not include a settlement process using cash. In the first settlement process, a settlement process using cash and a settlement process that does not include a settlement process using cash can be performed. The second settlement process is a settlement process using a payment method that does not generate change, such as a credit card or electronic money. In the normal state, the settlement device 20P performs the first settlement process. In the paused state, the settlement device 20P disables the first settlement process and enables the second settlement process.

For example, the registration device 20R accepts whether payment is made using cash or a payment other than cash. If the accepted payment method is a payment method other than cash, the registration data can be transmitted to a settlement device 20P that is inactive. In other words, it is displayed as a selectable settlement device 20P as the transmission destination. Note that the display mode indicating this settlement device 20P may be different from the display modes indicating other settlement devices 20P. For example, the display mode may be more prominent so that the settlement device 20P is selected with priority over other settlement devices 20P.

(Example of a screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 207 of the registration device 20R)
5 and 6 are explanatory diagrams showing examples of screens displayed on the clerk display unit 207 of the registration device 20R. The screens shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 may be displayed on the monitor of the monitoring device 11, in which case they may be configured to accept operations by the clerk. In FIGS. 5 and 6, the clerk display unit 207 displays a payment details area 501, a total points area 502, a payment amount area 503, and a settlement-related information area 504. The customer display unit 201 displays the same content, except for the settlement-related information area 504.

The payment details area 501 displays the product name and price of the purchased item (in the illustration, "XX T-shirt" and "XX toothbrush"). The total points area 502 shows the points for the payment details, which in the illustration is shown as 2 points. The payment amount area 503 shows the total payment amount. The settlement-related information area 504 shows information related to the settlement device 20P.

In FIG. 5(A), the settlement-related information area 504 displays settlement device information 510 and a confirmation screen 520. The settlement device information 510 includes selection buttons 511 to 513 corresponding to three settlement devices 20P1, 20P2, and 20P3.

Selection buttons 511-513 include a display showing the status of the corresponding settlement device 20P and a display of potential destinations for registration data (the portion displaying "Settlement Device P"). For example, selection button 511 indicates that the first settlement device 20P1 is in standby mode, and is displayed as a potential destination for registration data. Note that the standby mode is the normal mode in which a customer has not yet settled their payment. When selection button 511 is pressed, registration device 20R sends the registration data to the first settlement device 20P1.

The selection button 512 indicates that the second settlement device 20P2 is near-full, and displays candidate destinations for sending the registration data. The selection button 512 is enabled for operation. Therefore, when the selection button 512 is pressed, the registration device 20R sends the registration data to the second settlement device 20P2. The near-full state means that the number of bills stored in the first storage unit 401 is close to the maximum number that can be accommodated, but the unit is still usable.

The selection button 513 also indicates that the third settlement device 20P3 is offline, and is displayed as unavailable for selection as a candidate destination for sending registration data. The offline state is a state in which the registration device 20R and the third settlement device 20P3 are not connected for communication. The selection button 513 is disabled. Therefore, even if the selection button 513 is pressed, the registration device 20R will not send the registration data to the third settlement device 20P3.

The confirmation screen 520 accepts the selection of whether or not to put the second settlement device 20P2 into a suspended state. Specifically, the confirmation screen 520 displays a button indicating that the second settlement device 20P2 should be suspended (the "Yes" button) and a button indicating that the second settlement device 20P2 should not be suspended (the "No" button).

When the "Yes" button is pressed on the confirmation screen 520, the registration device 20R sends an instruction to the second settlement device 20P2 to put it into a suspended state, and the second settlement device 20P2 goes into a suspended state. When the "No" button is pressed on the confirmation screen 520, the second settlement device 20P2 does not go into a suspended state. When the "Yes" button is pressed on the confirmation screen 520, the screen transitions to the screen shown in FIG. 5(B).

When the second settlement device 20P2 reaches the allowable limit for the number of bills that can be stored in the first storage unit 401 (when it becomes full), it enters a paused state and transmits information indicating that it has entered a paused state (pause information). When the registration device 20R receives the paused information, it disables operation of the selection button 512 corresponding to the second settlement device 20P2.

In Figure 5 (B), the selection button 512 indicates that the second settlement device 20P2 is in an inactive state (shown as "Inactive" in the figure), and is displayed as unavailable for selection as a possible destination for sending registration data. Operation of the selection button 512 is invalid. Therefore, even if the selection button 512 is pressed, the registration device 20R will not send the registration data to the second settlement device 20P2.

The selection screen 530 accepts the selection of whether or not to have the automatic change dispenser 204 of the second settlement device 20P2 perform overflow processing. Specifically, the selection screen 530 displays a button indicating that overflow processing should be performed (the "Yes" button) and a button indicating that overflow processing should not be performed (the "No" button). When the "No" button is pressed on the selection screen 530, overflow processing will not be performed in the second settlement device 20P2. In this case, manual collection will be performed by a store clerk. The selection screen 530 may also be displayed when one of the settlement devices 20P becomes near-full.

In addition, in FIG. 5(B), an estimated time until the overflow processing is completed may be displayed. This estimated time may be displayed when a button indicating that the overflow processing should be performed (the "Yes" button) is pressed, or may be displayed before the "Yes" button is pressed.

When the "Yes" button is pressed on the selection screen 530, the registration device 20R sends an overflow start instruction to the second settlement device 20P2, and the overflow process begins in the second settlement device 20P2. When the "Yes" button is pressed on the selection screen 530, the screen transitions to the screen shown in Figure 6 (A).

Figure 6 (A) shows the screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 207 of the registration device 20R during overflow processing. In Figure 6 (A), the selection button 512 indicates that the second settlement device 20P2 is in a suspended state (showing "Overflow processing in progress" in the figure), and is displayed as unavailable for selection as a possible destination for sending registration data. When the overflow processing is completed and the registration device 20R2 returns to a normal state from a suspended state, the screen transitions to the screen shown in Figure 6 (B). Note that when "Overflow processing in progress" is displayed in Figure 6 (A), a countdown may be displayed to show the estimated time until the overflow processing is completed.

Figure 6 (B) shows a screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 207 of the registration device 20R when the second settlement device 20P2 returns to normal operation from a suspended state. The registration device 20R displays the screen shown in Figure 6 upon receiving recovery information from the second settlement device 20P2. In Figure 6, the selection button 512 indicates that the first settlement device 20P1 is in standby mode and is displayed as selectable as a candidate destination for sending registration data. Note that the selection button 513 corresponding to the third settlement device 20P3 also indicates that the third settlement device 20P3 is in standby mode and is displayed as selectable as a candidate destination for sending registration data when the third settlement device 20P3 goes online.

Note that the selection buttons 511-513 shown in Figures 5 and 6 include displays of candidate destinations for sending registration data (settlement devices 20P) and displays indicating the status of the settlement device 20P, but are not limited to this. For example, the selection buttons 511-513 may only include displays of candidate destinations for sending registration data, and not include displays indicating the status of the settlement device 20P. In this case, the display indicating the status of the settlement device 20P may be, for example, a list display of the words "Settlement device P1: standby state," "Settlement device P2: overflow processing," and "Settlement device P3: offline state" in the space in the settlement-related information area 504.

(Example of screen displayed on each device)
7A and 7B are explanatory diagrams showing examples of screens displayed on each device. FIG. 7A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on settlement device 20P in the paused state. In FIG. 7A, the customer display unit 201 of settlement device 20P displays that it is in the paused state. Note that the display shown in FIG. 7A may be displayed on at least either the customer display unit 201 or the store clerk display unit 207. In addition, a selection screen 700 is displayed on the customer display unit 201 of settlement device 20P.

The selection screen 700 accepts the selection of whether or not to have the automatic change dispenser 204 of the settlement device 20P perform overflow processing. Specifically, the selection screen 700 displays a button indicating that overflow processing should be performed (the "Yes" button) and a button indicating that overflow processing should not be performed (the "No" button). The selection screen 700 is displayed when the settlement device 20P reaches a near-full state.

When the "Yes" button is pressed on the selection screen 700, the settlement device 20P causes the automatic change dispenser 204 to perform overflow processing. When the "No" button is pressed on the selection screen 700, the settlement device 20P does not perform overflow processing. In this case, the cashier will manually collect the cash. Note that the selection screen 700 may be displayed when the store clerk logs in to prevent customers from operating the selection screen 700.

Figure 7 (B) is an example screen displayed on the monitor of the monitoring device 11. The monitor of the monitoring device 11 displays the status of each settlement device 20P. Figure 7 (B) shows that the first settlement device 20P1 is in a standby state, the second settlement device 20P2 is in a near-end state, and the third settlement device 20P3 is in an offline state. When the second settlement device 20P2 is in a near-end state, a warning message is displayed to alert the store staff. Note that when the second settlement device 20P2 goes into a sleep state or when overflow processing is performed, the monitor of the monitoring device 11 also displays a message to that effect.

(Example of operation of POS system 1)
8 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the POS system 1. In FIG. 8, when the automatic change dispenser 204 becomes near-full (step S801), the settlement device 20P notifies the fact that the automatic change dispenser 204 has become near-full (step S802). The settlement device 20P then transmits near-full information (information indicating that the automatic change dispenser 204 has become near-full) to the registration device 20R (step S803). The monitoring device 11 manages the remaining change information for each POS register 20. Therefore, the near-full information may not only be transmitted from the settlement device 20P to the registration device 20R, but may also be transmitted from the monitoring device 11 to the registration device.

When the registration device 20R receives the near-full information from the settlement device 20P, it notifies the settlement device 20P that it has entered a near-full state (step S804). The registration device 20R then displays a confirmation screen 520 (see FIG. 5A) for placing the settlement device 20P in a suspended state (step S805). When the confirmation screen 520 accepts the request to place the settlement device 20P in a suspended state, the registration device 20R transmits a suspension instruction (information indicating that the settlement device 20P is to be placed in a suspended state) to the settlement device 20P (step S806).

When the settlement device 20P receives a pause instruction from the registration device 20R, it enters a paused state (step S807) and transmits pause information (information indicating the paused state) to the registration device 20R (step S808). When the registration device 20R receives the pause information from the settlement device 20P, it prohibits the transmission of registration data to the settlement device 20P (step S809). Then, the registration device 20R displays a selection screen 530 (see FIG. 5(B)) for the settlement device 20P to select whether or not to perform overflow processing (step S810). Then, when the registration device 20R accepts the start of overflow processing on the selection screen 530, it transmits an overflow start instruction (information for starting overflow processing) to the settlement device 20P (step S811).

When the settlement device 20P enters the paused state, it also displays a selection screen 700 (see FIG. 7A) for asking whether or not to perform overflow processing (step S812). If the selection screen 700 accepts the start of overflow processing, or if an instruction to start overflow is received from the registration device 20R, the settlement device 20P causes the automatic change dispenser 204 to start overflow processing (step S813). If the selection screen 700 does not accept the start of overflow processing or does not receive an instruction to start overflow, the settlement device 20P resolves the near-full state by having the clerk manually collect the bills (step S813). Note that when manually collecting the bills, the settlement device 20P may be configured to accept the denomination and number of bills specified by the clerk.

Then, when the near-full state is resolved, the settlement device 20P returns from the hibernation state to the normal state (step S814). Next, the settlement device 20P transmits recovery information (information indicating that the normal state has been restored from the hibernation state) to the registration device 20R (step S815), and the series of processes ends. Upon receiving the recovery information from the settlement device 20P, the registration device 20R lifts the prohibition on sending registration data to the settlement device 20P (step S816), and the series of processes ends.

(Example of processing performed by settlement device 20P according to embodiment 1)
Next, an example of processing performed by the settlement device 20P according to embodiment 1 will be described with reference to Figures 9A and 9B. Figures 9A and 9B are flowcharts showing an example of processing performed by the settlement device 20P according to embodiment 1. Note that the processing shown in the flowcharts of Figures 9A and 9B is constantly started (periodically at very short time intervals) by the settlement device 20P.

In FIG. 9A, the settlement device 20P determines whether the automatic change dispenser 204 is near-full (step S901). If the automatic change dispenser 204 is not near-full or is already near-full (step S901: NO), the settlement device 20P proceeds to step S904.

If the automatic change dispenser 204 is near-full (step S901: YES), the settlement device 20P notifies the registration device 20R that the automatic change dispenser 204 is near-full (step S902). The settlement device 20P then transmits information indicating that the automatic change dispenser 204 is near-full (information indicating that the automatic change dispenser 204 is near-full) to the registration device 20R (step S903).

The settlement device 20P then determines whether or not it has received a pause instruction from the registration device 20R (step S904). If it has not received a pause instruction (step S904: NO), the settlement device 20P proceeds to step S908. If it has received a pause instruction (step S904: YES), the settlement device 20P enters a paused state (step S905). The settlement device 20P then transmits pause information to the registration device 20R (step S906). Next, the settlement device 20P displays a selection screen for whether or not to perform overflow processing (step S907).

The settlement device 20P then determines whether an overflow start instruction has been received from the registration device 20R (step S908). If an overflow start instruction has been received (step S908: YES), the settlement device 20P proceeds to step S910. If an overflow start instruction has not been received (step S908: NO), the settlement device 20P determines whether a request to start overflow processing has been accepted on the selection screen for whether or not to perform overflow processing (step S909). If a request to start overflow processing has been accepted (step S909: YES), the settlement device 20P starts overflow processing (step S910).

On the other hand, if the start of overflow processing is not accepted (step S909: NO) and the overflow start instruction in step S908 is not received, proceed to step S911. In this case, depending on the congestion situation, a store clerk will go to an inactive settlement device 20P and manually collect the money.

The settlement device 20P then determines whether the near-full state has been resolved (step S911). If the near-full state has not been resolved (step S911: NO), the settlement device 20P ends the series of processes. On the other hand, if the near-full state has been resolved (step S911: YES), the settlement device 20P determines whether the current state is a dormant state (step S912). If the current state is not a dormant state (step S912: NO), i.e., if the current state is a normal state, the settlement device 20P ends the series of processes.

If the settlement device 20P is currently in a suspended state (step S912: YES), it returns to a normal state (step S913). The settlement device 20P then transmits restoration information (information indicating that it has returned to a normal state from a suspended state) to the registration device 20R (step S914).

The settlement device 20P then determines whether it has received registration data from the registration device 20R (step S915). If it has not received registration data (step S915: NO), it ends the series of processes. If it has received registration data (step S915: YES), it determines whether it is in a suspended state (step S916). If it is in a suspended state (step S916: YES), it performs settlement processing (second settlement processing) using a method other than cash (step S917), and ends the series of processes.

If the settlement device 20P is not in a suspended state (step S916: NO), it performs the settlement process (first settlement process) using a method including cash (step S918) and ends the series of processes. Note that a method including cash is a normal payment method including cash, credit card, electronic money, etc. Furthermore, upon completing the settlement process in step S917 or step S918, the settlement device 20P transmits information regarding the settlement process to the registration device 20R, including information indicating that the settlement process has been completed and details of the settlement process (payment method, amount received, change, etc.).

(Example of processing performed by the registration device 20R according to the first embodiment)
Next, an example of processing performed by the registration device 20R according to embodiment 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B. Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B are flowcharts showing an example of processing performed by the registration device 20R according to embodiment 1. Note that the processing shown in the flowcharts of Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B is constantly (periodically at very short time intervals) started by the registration device 20R.

In FIG. 10, the registration device 20R determines whether near-full information has been received from the settlement device 20P (step S1001). If near-full information has not been received from the settlement device 20P (step S1001: NO), the registration device 20R proceeds to step S1004.

If near-full information is received from the settlement device 20P (step S1001: YES), the registration device 20R notifies the settlement device 20P that the automatic change dispenser 204 is near-full (step S1002). The registration device 20R then displays a confirmation screen 520 (see FIG. 5A) for putting the settlement device 20P into a suspended state (step S1003).

Then, the registration device 20R determines whether the confirmation button has accepted the instruction to put the registration device 20R into a suspended state (step S1004). If the registration device 20R does not accept the instruction to put the registration device 20R into a suspended state (step S1004: NO), the registration device 20R proceeds to step S1006. If the registration device 20R accepts the instruction to put the registration device 20R into a suspended state (step S1004: YES), the registration device 20R sends an instruction to put the registration device 20R into a suspended state (information indicating that the registration device 20R will be put into a suspended state) to the settlement device 20P (step S1005).

The registration device 20R then determines whether it has received pause information from the settlement device 20P (step S1006). If the registration device 20R has not received pause information (step S1006: NO), it proceeds to step S1009. If the registration device 20R has received pause information (step S1006: YES), it prohibits the transmission of registration data to the settlement device 20P (step S1007). The registration device 20R then displays a selection screen 530 (see FIG. 5(B)) for prompting the settlement device 20P whether to perform overflow processing (step S1008). The registration device 20R then determines whether it has accepted a request to start overflow processing on the selection screen (step S1009).

If the registration device 20R does not accept the start of overflow processing (step S1009: NO), it proceeds to step S1011. If the registration device 20R accepts the start of overflow processing (step S1009: YES), it sends an overflow start instruction (information for starting overflow processing) to the settlement device 20P (step S1010).

The registration device 20R then determines whether product registration is complete, for example, by pressing the subtotal key (step S1011). If product registration is not complete (step S1011: NO), the registration device 20R terminates the process. If product registration is complete (step S1011: YES), the registration device 20R determines whether there are any settlement devices 20P to which registration data transmission is prohibited (step S1012). If there are no settlement devices 20P to which registration data transmission is prohibited (step S1012: NO), the registration device 20R enables transmission of registration data to the currently connected settlement device 20P, displays candidate destinations on the store clerk display unit 207 (step S1013), and proceeds to step S1017.

On the other hand, if there is a settlement device 20P for which the transmission of registration data is prohibited (step S1012: YES), the registration device 20R determines whether the customer will pay in cash at the time of settlement (step S1014). When making the determination in step S1014, the registration device 20R displays a screen that accepts the customer's payment method. This screen is a selection screen that accepts the selection of either payment in cash or payment without change by credit card or IC card. This selection screen may be displayed on the customer display unit 201 and may be a screen that can accept operation from the customer. By accepting operation from the selection screen, the registration device 20R determines whether the customer will pay in cash at the time of settlement.

If the payment is in cash (step S1014: YES), the registration device 20R disables the transmission of registration data to the inactive settlement device 20P and displays candidate destinations (step S1015), and proceeds to step S1017. If the payment is not in cash (step S1014: NO), the registration device 20R enables the transmission of registration data to the inactive settlement device 20P and displays candidate destinations (step S1016). The registration device 20R then determines whether a destination has been selected from the displayed candidates (step S1017). If a destination has not been selected from the displayed candidates (step S1017: NO), the registration device 20R proceeds to step S1019.

If a destination is selected from the displayed candidates (step S1017: YES), the registration device 20R transmits the registration data to the selected settlement device 20P (step S1018). The registration device 20R then determines whether recovery information (information indicating that the settlement device 20P has returned to normal mode from a suspended mode) has been received from the settlement device 20P (step S1019). If recovery information has not been received (step S1019: NO), the registration device 20R terminates the series of processes. If recovery information has been received (step S1019: YES), the prohibition on transmission of registration data to the settlement device 20P is lifted (step S1020), and the series of processes is terminated.

In the first embodiment described above, the settlement device 20P can be put into a sleep state when the amount of coins stored in the first storage section 401 exceeds a predetermined amount, and the registration device 20R is prohibited from sending product registration data when the settlement device 20P is in a sleep state. This allows the settlement device 20P to be put into a sleep state when the automatic change dispenser 204 of the settlement device 20P becomes near-full, and makes it impossible to perform settlements at the sleep-state settlement device 20P. Therefore, it is possible to intentionally leave the settlement device 20P idle even when it becomes near-full. This allows the store clerk to cancel the sleep state when they have free time, thereby preventing interference with the store clerk's product registration work. This prevents a decrease in store clerk work efficiency.

Furthermore, in embodiment 1, when the coins stored in the first storage unit 401 are stored in the second storage unit 402 and fall below a predetermined amount, the settlement device 20P returns from a sleep state to a normal state, and the registration device 20R cancels the prohibition on sending registration data. Therefore, when the full state is resolved, settlement can be performed at the settlement device 20P.

In addition, in embodiment 1, the automatic change dispenser 204 is configured to perform a recovery process (overflow process) in which some of the coins stored in the first storage unit 401 are recovered into the second storage unit 402 when the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 exceeds a predetermined amount. This makes it possible to resolve a near-full state without requiring a store clerk to manually recover the coins. This therefore reduces the workload of store clerks when returning the settlement device 20P from a paused state to a normal state.

Furthermore, in embodiment 1, the settlement device 20P is configured to accept a selection from a store clerk as to whether or not to have the automatic change dispenser 204 perform a collection process. As a result, depending on the structure of the automatic change dispenser 204, manual collection by a store clerk may take less time to resolve a near-full state than overflow processing. In such cases, when the dispenser is relatively empty, it is more efficient to have a store clerk collect the changes manually. Therefore, a near-full state can be resolved efficiently.

In addition, in embodiment 1, when the registration device 20R receives a selection from a store clerk to perform the collection process, it transmits information indicating this to the settlement device 20P. This allows the settlement device 20P to perform the collection process in response to an instruction from the registration device 20R. Therefore, the near-full state can be resolved without the store clerk having to go to the settlement device 20P. This reduces the workload of the store clerk.

In addition, in embodiment 1, when the settlement device 20P is in a suspended state, it is not possible to perform a first settlement process, which includes a settlement process using cash, but is possible to perform a second settlement process, which does not include a settlement process using cash. This allows the settlement device 20P in a suspended state to be used as a cashless-only settlement device 20P, thereby improving settlement efficiency.

Furthermore, in embodiment 1, the settlement device 20P is configured to switch from the normal state to a suspended state in response to a store clerk's operation when the amount of coins stored in the first storage section 401 reaches a predetermined amount. As a result, even if the automatic change dispenser 204 of the settlement device 20P becomes nearly full, it can still be used in a nearly full state, and can therefore be switched to a suspended state at the discretion of the store clerk. This can therefore improve the convenience of the settlement device 20P.

(Modification of the first embodiment)
A modification of the first embodiment will be described below. In the first embodiment described above, when the number of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 reaches a predetermined amount, the automatic change dispenser 204 is switched from the normal state to the paused state in response to an operation by a store clerk. In a modification of the first embodiment, in addition to or instead of this configuration, the automatic change dispenser 204 may be automatically switched from the normal state to the paused state when the number of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 reaches a predetermined amount. Here, the settlement device 20P can be switched from the normal state to the paused state when the number of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 reaches a predetermined amount. If this predetermined amount is set as the "set number for the full state," the settlement device 20P may automatically switch to the paused state when the automatic change dispenser 204 reaches a full state.

The predetermined amount may also include a first predetermined amount (e.g., the number of coins set in a near-full state) and a second predetermined amount (e.g., the number of coins set in a full state). In this case, the settlement device 20P may enter a sleep state in response to an operation by a store clerk when the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 reaches or exceeds the first predetermined amount. The settlement device 20P may also automatically enter a sleep state from the normal state when the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 reaches or exceeds the second predetermined amount.

With this configuration, the settlement device 20P can automatically enter a sleep state when the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 reaches a predetermined amount. This reduces the number of times the store clerk needs to check and operate the device, thereby reducing the store clerk's workload.

(Embodiment 2)
A second embodiment will be described below. In the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same components as those described in the first embodiment, and the description will be omitted where appropriate. In the first embodiment described above, when the settlement device 20P is in a suspended state, the registration device 20R is simply prohibited from transmitting registration data. In the second embodiment, in addition to or instead of this configuration, a configuration will be described in which surplus money from a POS register 20 that is in a near-full state is deposited into another POS register 20 that is in a near-end state.

(Functional Configuration of POS System 1 in Second Embodiment)
First, a description will be given of the functional configuration of the POS system 1 of embodiment 2. The POS system 1 according to embodiment 2 includes one or more registration devices 20R, multiple settlement devices 20P, and multiple automatic change dispensers 204 connected to the multiple settlement devices 20P, respectively. The multiple automatic change dispensers 204 include a first automatic change dispenser 204 and a second automatic change dispenser 204.

The first automatic change dispenser 204 is an automatic change dispenser 204 that can dispense coins, for example, an automatic change dispenser 204 in a near-full state. The second automatic change dispenser 204 is an automatic change dispenser 204 that can deposit coins, for example, an automatic change dispenser 204 in a near-end state. Note that the second automatic change dispenser 204 is not limited to an automatic change dispenser 204 in a near-end state, but may also be an automatic change dispenser 204 in which the denomination of coins to be deposited has not reached the set number of surplus coins.

Here, the monitoring device 11 acquires information about the currency in the first automatic change dispenser 204 and the second automatic change dispenser 204. Specifically, the information about currency is information for depositing currency from the first automatic change dispenser 204 to the second automatic change dispenser 204. For example, the information about currency includes information about a denomination that has reached a near-end state in the second automatic change dispenser 204, information about the number of coins of that denomination that are missing, and information identifying the second automatic change dispenser 204. Furthermore, the information about currency includes information about a denomination that has reached a near-full state in the first automatic change dispenser 204, information about the number of coins of that denomination that are surplus, and information identifying the first automatic change dispenser 204.

Information about currency is generated based on the number of coins remaining for each denomination, remaining change information, deposit history information, and withdrawal history information of the multiple automatic change dispensers 204. The information about currency is generated, for example, by the monitoring device 11. Note that the information about currency may also be generated by any one of the multiple POS registers 20.

Based on information about the currency, the POS register 20 performs control (hereinafter referred to as "recovery control") to recover some of the currency in the first storage unit 401 of the first automatic change dispenser 204 to the second storage unit 402 of the first automatic change dispenser 204. The recovery control is a control for making up for the shortage of currency in the second automatic change dispenser 204 from the surplus currency in the first automatic change dispenser 204.

Specifically, collection control involves carrying out the following controls. For example, for that denomination, performing overflow processing for the number of coins to be replenished in a POS register 20 that has become near-full, and issuing various notifications (notifications prompting the user to select whether or not to perform overflow processing, notification that overflow processing will be performed automatically, notification prompting the store clerk to perform manual collection, notification specifying a near-end POS register 20, notification of the number of coins to be replenished in a near-end POS register 20, etc.).

Overflow processing during collection control may be performed automatically by the POS register 20 when it is near-full. Various notifications during collection control are provided by the POS register 20 via display or audio. By providing such notifications, coins collected in the second storage section 402 of the POS register 20 when it is near-full can be moved to the first storage section 401 of the POS register 20 when it is near-end.

(Regarding the number of coins set)
Next, the set number of coins managed by the automatic change dispenser 204 will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the set number of coins for each denomination. A setting table 1100 in Fig. 11 shows the set number of coins in the near-end state, the set number of surplus coins, and the set number of coins in the near-full state for each denomination in the first storage unit 401.

The set number of coins for the near-end state is the number at which the POS register 20 recognizes that the change is in a near-end state. The set number of surplus coins is the number that can be transferred to the automatic change dispenser 204 of another POS register 20. The set number of coins for the near-full state is the number at which the POS register 20 recognizes that the change is in a near-full state. The information shown in Figure 11 is stored in a location that can be referenced by the monitoring device 11. Note that the monitoring device 11 may also store the information shown in Figure 11 internally.

(Example of the number of coins currently held by each denomination per POS register 20)
Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the number of coins currently held by each denomination for each POS register 20. Figure 12 (A) shows the number of coins currently held by a first automatic change dispenser 204 connected to a certain POS register 20 (e.g., a first settlement device 20P1). Figure 12 (B) shows the number of coins currently held by a second automatic change dispenser 204 connected to a certain POS register 20 (e.g., a second settlement device 20P2). Figure 12 (C) shows the number of coins currently held by an automatic change dispenser 204 connected to a certain POS register 20 (another settlement device 20Pn).

As shown in Figure 12 (A), the automatic change dispenser 204 of the first settlement device 20P1 is near-full at 50 yen. Also, as shown in Figure 12 (B), the automatic change dispenser 204 of the second settlement device 20P2 is near-end at 50 yen. Also, as shown in Figure 12 (C), the automatic change dispenser 204 of the nth settlement device 20P is in a normal state (neither near-full nor near-end) for all denominations.

To resolve the near-full state of the automatic change dispenser 204 of the first settlement device 20P1 with respect to the current number of coins held as shown in FIG. 12, the coins held in the first storage unit 401 can be collected into the second storage unit 402. To resolve the near-end state of the automatic change dispenser 204 of the second settlement device 20P2, the coin (50 yen) collected in the second storage unit 402 of the first settlement device 20P1 can be moved to the first storage unit 401 of the second settlement device 20P2.

Specifically, for example, the number of 50 yen bills at the first settlement device 20P1 is 202, which is 62 more than the set surplus number (120). Furthermore, the number of 50 yen bills at the second settlement device 20P2 is 48, which is 2 less than the set near-end number (50). Therefore, by transferring a specified number (e.g., 62) from the first settlement device 20P1 to the second settlement device 20P2, it is possible to resolve the near-full state at the first settlement device 20P1 and the near-end state at the second settlement device 20P2.

The information shown in Figures 12(A) to 12(C) is stored in a location that can be referenced by the monitoring device 11. For example, the monitoring device 11 may store the information shown in Figures 12(A) to 12(C) within itself. For example, the monitoring device 11 may make a request (request for remaining change information) to each POS register 20 on the LAN, receive information regarding the number of coins held by each denomination (remaining change information) from each POS register 20 on the LAN, and store the information within itself. Furthermore, each POS register 20 on the LAN may send the remaining change information to the monitoring device 11 when the number of coins held by each denomination changes.

Each POS register 20 transmits transaction information to the store controller 10. Therefore, the store controller 10 can obtain remaining change information for each POS register 20 based on the transaction information. Therefore, the monitoring device 11 may receive remaining change information for each settlement machine from the store controller 10, rather than receiving remaining change information individually from each POS register 20.

When a POS register 20 (first settlement device 20P1) becomes near-full, the monitoring device 11 selects a POS register 20 to be replenished. The POS register 20 to be replenished is, for example, the POS register 20 (second settlement device 20P2) that has become near-end.

The POS register 20 to be replenished may be selected by the store clerk. In this case, for example, the POS register 20 (registration device 20R or settlement device 20P) may receive information from the monitoring device 11 indicating the first settlement device 20P1 from which the replenishment amount can be dispensed. The POS register 20 (registration device 20R or settlement device 20P) may then display the first settlement device 20P1 from which the replenishment amount can be dispensed to the store clerk as a candidate from which the replenishment amount can be obtained, and may then receive from the store clerk the first settlement device 20P1 from which the replenishment amount can be obtained.

Note that the monitoring device 11 is not limited to managing the number of coins in each POS register 20 (each automatic change dispenser 204). For example, the monitoring device 11 may manage the number of coins in any POS register 20 or in a POS register 20 written by the store controller 10.

(Example of a screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 207 of the registration device 20R)
FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the clerk-side display unit 207 of the registration device 20R. The screen shown in FIG. 13 may be displayed on the monitor of the monitoring device 11, in which case the monitoring device 11 may accept operations by the clerk. In FIG. 13, the clerk-side display unit 207 displays the number of coins currently held by the first settlement device 20P1 and the number of coins currently held by the second settlement device 20P2. Of the number of coins currently held by the first settlement device 20P1, the denomination (50 yen) that is near full is displayed in a different display format from the other denominations. Furthermore, of the number of coins currently held by the second settlement device 20P2, the denomination (50 yen) that is near end is also displayed in a different display format from the other denominations.

The selection screen 1300 includes a number selection button 1301 and a decision button 1302. The number selection button 1301 accepts a change in the number of coins to be moved from the first settlement device 20P1 to the second settlement device 20P2. In the illustration, it indicates that 62 50 yen coins are to be moved. The number selection button 1301 includes a "+" button that accepts an addition to the number of coins, and a "-" button that accepts a subtraction to the number of coins. Note that in Figure 13, the set number of coins in the near-end state, the set number of surplus coins, and the set number of coins in the near-full state may also be displayed.

The decision button 1302 accepts the selection of whether or not to have the automatic change dispenser 204 of the first settlement device 20P1 perform overflow processing. Specifically, the decision button 1302 displays a button indicating that overflow processing should be performed (the "Yes" button) and a button indicating that overflow processing should not be performed (the "No" button). When the "No" button of the decision buttons 1302 is pressed, overflow processing will not be performed in the first settlement device 20P1. In this case, manual collection will be performed by a store clerk. The selection screen 1300 may also be displayed when one of the settlement devices 20P becomes near-full.

In addition, in FIG. 13, the store clerk display unit 207 displays a register selection button 1310 and a replenishment button 1320. When the register selection button 1310 is pressed, the number of coins currently held in other POS registers 20, other possible sources for obtaining replenishment money, and other possible sources for replenishment money are displayed for selection. When the replenishment button 1320 is pressed, it is determined that replenishment will be performed separately, rather than replenishment between POS registers 20.

(Example of operation of POS system 1 according to the second embodiment)
14 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the POS system 1 according to the second embodiment. In FIG. 14, the first settlement device 20P1 (near-full state), the registration device 20R, the monitoring device 11, and the second settlement device 20P2 (near-end state) are used for explanation.

In FIG. 14, when the automatic change dispenser 204 becomes near-full (step S1401), the first settlement device 20P1 notifies the user that the automatic change dispenser 204 is near-full (step S1402). The first settlement device 20P1 then transmits near-full information (information indicating that the automatic change dispenser 204 is near-full) to the registration device 20R (step S1403).

The monitoring device 11 manages the remaining change information for each POS register 20. Therefore, the near-full information may not only be sent from the settlement device 20P to the registration device 20R, but may also be sent from the monitoring device 11 to the registration device.

When the registration device 20R receives the near-full information from the first settlement device 20P1, it notifies the first settlement device 20P1 that it has entered a near-full state (step S1404). The registration device 20R then displays a confirmation screen 520 (see FIG. 5(A)) for placing the first settlement device 20P1 in a suspended state (step S1405). When the confirmation screen 520 accepts the request to place the first settlement device 20P1 in a suspended state, the registration device 20R transmits a suspension instruction (information indicating that the first settlement device 20P1 will be placed in a suspended state) to the first settlement device 20P1 (step S1406).

When the first settlement device 20P1 receives the pause instruction from the registration device 20R, it enters a paused state (step S1407) and transmits pause information (information indicating the paused state) to the registration device 20R (step S1408). When the registration device 20R receives the pause information from the first settlement device 20P1, it prohibits the transmission of registration data to the first settlement device 20P1 (step S1409).

The monitoring device 11 detects a settlement device 20P (first settlement device 20P1) that is in a near-full state (step S1410). Detection of a settlement device 20P that is in a near-full state is performed based on remaining change information, etc. However, this is not limited to this, and a settlement device 20P that is in a near-full state may also be detected by receiving near-full information from the first settlement device 20P1.

Then, the monitoring device 11 requests remaining change information from multiple settlement devices 20P, including the second settlement device 20P2 (step S1411). Note that since the monitoring device 11 constantly manages the remaining change information of each settlement device 20P, if the monitoring device 11 has obtained the latest remaining change information, it does not need to request remaining change information from multiple settlement devices 20P, including P (in the illustration, the second settlement device 20P2), at the timing of step S1411.

When the second settlement device 20P2 receives the request for remaining change information, it acquires the remaining change information of the automatic change dispenser 204 (step S1413). The second settlement device 20P2 then transmits the acquired remaining change information to the monitoring device 11 (step S1414). The monitoring device 11 then generates information about the currency of the first settlement device 20P1 (first automatic change dispenser 204) and the second settlement device 20P2 (second automatic change dispenser 204) and transmits this information to the registration device 20R (step S1415).

When the registration device 20R receives information about the currency from the monitoring device 11, it performs collection control. For example, the registration device 20R displays the denomination and number of coins that are in short supply at the second settlement device 20P2 on the clerk-side display unit 207 (step S1416). This allows the clerk to understand that the second settlement device 20P2 is in a near-end state. Note that if there are no settlement devices 20P that are in a near-end state, the registration device 20R simply notifies this fact.

Then, if the denomination that has reached the near-end state at the second settlement device 20P2 is the same as the denomination that has reached the near-full state at the first settlement device 20P1, the registration device 20R sends a withdrawal instruction to the first settlement device 20P1 (step S1417).

When the first settlement device 20P1 receives a withdrawal instruction, it displays an overflow processing selection screen and a message prompting the user to withdraw money (indicating the second settlement device 20P2 is near-end and the shortfall in the second settlement device 20P2) (step S1418). The screen and display in step S1418 are, for example, a screen equivalent to the selection screen 1300 shown in FIG. 13.

The screen and display in step S1418 may be displayed by a store clerk logging in. The display in step S1418 allows a store clerk who visits the first settlement device 20P1 to start the overflow process and to understand which second settlement device 20P2 is near-end and the shortfall at the second settlement device 20P2. If there are no settlement devices 20P that are near-end, the first settlement device 20P1 may not display the overflow process selection screen 700.

The registration device 20R also displays a selection screen 1300 (see FIG. 13) on the first settlement device 20P1 to prompt the user whether or not to perform overflow processing (step S1419). When the registration device 20R accepts the start of overflow processing on the selection screen 1300, it transmits an overflow start instruction (information for starting overflow processing) to the first settlement device 20P1 with the contents set on the selection screen 1300 (step S1420).

Furthermore, if the first settlement device 20P1 accepts the start of overflow processing on the selection screen 700 (see FIG. 7(A)) for whether or not to perform overflow processing, or if it receives an instruction to start overflow from the registration device 20R, it causes the automatic change dispenser 204 to start overflow processing (step S1421). Furthermore, if the start of overflow processing is not accepted on the selection screen or an instruction to start overflow is not received, the near-full state is resolved by a store clerk manually collecting the bills (step S1421). Note that, in manual collection, the first settlement device 20P1 may be configured to accept the denomination and number of bills specified by the store clerk.

Then, when the near-full state is resolved, the first settlement device 20P1 returns from the hibernation state to the normal state (step S1422). Next, the first settlement device 20P1 transmits recovery information (information indicating that the first settlement device 20P1 has returned to the normal state from the hibernation state) to the registration device 20R (step S1423). Upon receiving the recovery information from the first settlement device 20P1, the registration device 20R lifts the prohibition on sending registration data to the first settlement device 20P1 (step S1424), and the series of processes ends.

The first settlement device 20P1 also stores withdrawal information indicating the denomination and number of coins collected by overflow processing or manual collection (step S1425). The first settlement device 20P1 then transmits the withdrawal information to the monitoring device 11 (step S1426), ending the series of processes.

When the monitoring device 11 receives the withdrawal information from the first settlement device 20P1, it sends a deposit acceptance instruction to the second settlement device 20P2 (step S1427). The monitoring device 11 then stores the withdrawal history information of the first settlement device 20P1 (step S1428).

When the second settlement device 20P2 receives a deposit acceptance instruction from the monitoring device 11, it accepts the deposit (step S1429). The second settlement device 20P2 then transmits deposit information indicating the denomination and number of coins deposited to the monitoring device 11 (step S1430), ending the series of processes. When the monitoring device 11 receives the deposit information from the first settlement device 20P1, it stores the deposit history information of the second settlement device 20P2 (step S1431), ending the series of processes.

In the second embodiment described above, control is performed to recover some of the coins in the first storage unit 401 of the first automatic change dispenser 204 to the second storage unit 402 of the first automatic change dispenser 204 based on information about the coins in one POS register 20 (first automatic change dispenser 204) and another POS register 20 (second automatic change dispenser 204). This makes it possible, for example, to efficiently move coins from the first automatic change dispenser 204 that is near full to the second automatic change dispenser 204 that is near end. This reduces the burden on store clerks involved in depositing and dispensing coins in the POS system 1.

The following supplementary notes are disclosed:
(Appendix 1)
a registration device operated by a store clerk to perform product registration processing;
a payment device that is operated by a customer and performs payment processing for the products registered in the registration device;
A product sales data processing system comprising:
The settlement device
The change dispenser is connected to a change dispenser including a first storage unit for storing coins and a second storage unit capable of storing the coins stored in the first storage unit,
When the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit reaches a predetermined amount or more, the machine can be switched from a normal state in which the settlement process is possible to a paused state in which the settlement process is impossible,
the registration device prohibits, when the settlement device is in the suspended state, the registration data of the products registered by the registration process from being transmitted to the settlement device;
A product sales data processing system.
(Appendix 2)
the settlement device returns from the pause state to the normal state when the coins stored in the first storage unit are stored in the second storage unit and the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit becomes less than the predetermined amount;
The registration device cancels the prohibition when the settlement device returns to the normal state.
2. A product sales data processing system according to claim 1.
(Appendix 3)
the change dispenser performs a recovery process of recovering a portion of the coins stored in the first storage unit into the second storage unit when the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined amount.
3. A product sales data processing system according to claim 1 or 2.
(Appendix 4)
The settlement device
accepting a selection from a store clerk as to whether or not to cause the change dispenser to perform the collection process;
4. A product sales data processing system according to claim 3.
(Appendix 5)
The registration device
accepting a selection from a store clerk as to whether or not to cause the change dispenser to perform the collection process;
When the selection to perform the collection process is accepted, information indicating that the selection is accepted is transmitted to the settlement device.
5. A product sales data processing system according to claim 3 or 4.
(Appendix 6)
The settlement device
It is possible to perform a first settlement process including a settlement process using cash and a second settlement process not including a settlement process using cash,
In the paused state, the first settlement process is disabled and the second settlement process is enabled.
6. A product sales data processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.
(Appendix 7)
the product sales data processing system includes a plurality of settlement devices and a plurality of change dispensers connected to the plurality of settlement devices, respectively;
the plurality of change dispensers include a first change dispenser capable of dispensing currency and a second change dispenser capable of receiving currency;
the registration device or any one of the settlement devices performs control to recover some of the coins in the first storage unit of the first change machine into the second storage unit of the first change machine based on information about the coins in the first change machine and the second change machine;
6. A product sales data processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.
(Appendix 8)
The settlement device
When the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit reaches or exceeds the predetermined amount, the machine switches from the normal state to the pause state in response to an operation by a store clerk.
8. A product sales data processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.
(Appendix 9)
The settlement device
When the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined amount, the device automatically switches from the normal state to the pause state.
9. A product sales data processing system according to any one of appendices 1 to 8.
(Appendix 10)
a registration device operated by a store clerk to perform product registration processing;
a payment device that is operated by a customer and performs payment processing for the products registered in the registration device;
Equipped with
A commodity sales data processing method for a commodity sales data processing system connected to a change dispenser, the settlement device having a first storage unit that stores coins and a second storage unit that can store coins stored in the first storage unit,
The settlement device includes a step of changing from a normal state in which the settlement process is possible to a pause state in which the settlement process is impossible when the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined amount,
a step of prohibiting, by the registration device, when the settlement device is in the suspended state, the registration data of the product registered by the registration process from being transmitted to the settlement device;
A merchandise sales data processing method comprising:
(Appendix 11)
a registration device operated by a store clerk to perform product registration processing;
a payment device that is operated by a customer and performs payment processing for the products registered in the registration device;
Equipped with
In a product sales data processing system connected to a change dispenser, the settlement device includes a first storage unit that stores coins and a second storage unit that can store the coins stored in the first storage unit, the program causing a first computer to function as the settlement device and a second computer to function as the registration device,
The first computer
When the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit reaches a predetermined amount or more, the device is configured to function so as to change from a normal state in which the settlement process is possible to a paused state in which the settlement process is impossible,
The second computer
When the settlement device is in the suspended state, the registration data of the products registered by the registration process is prohibited from being transmitted to the settlement device.
A program characterized by functioning as follows.

The program for implementing the POS system 1 and POS register 20 described above may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium and loaded into a computer system for execution. The term "computer system" as used herein includes hardware such as the operating system and peripheral devices. Furthermore, "computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as floppy disks, optical magnetic disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, as well as storage devices such as hard disks built into a computer system. Furthermore, "computer-readable recording medium" also includes devices that retain a program for a certain period of time, such as volatile memory (RAM) within a computer system that acts as a server or client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. The program may also be transmitted from a computer system storing the program in a storage medium to another computer system via a transmission medium or by transmission waves within the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" that transmits the program refers to a medium capable 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 intended to implement some of the aforementioned functions. Furthermore, the above functions may be realized in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system, a so-called differential file (differential program).

1...POS system 10...store controller 20...POS register 201...customer side display unit 202...customer side scanner unit 203...card settlement unit 204...automatic change dispenser 205...audio output unit 206...printing unit 207...store clerk side display unit 208...key operation unit 209...store clerk side scanner unit 301...CPU
302...ROM
303...RAM
304...Hard disk 401...First storage section 402...Second storage section

Claims (2)

A system including a storage unit for storing currency,
a display control unit that displays a selection button for switching from a normal state in which settlement processing is possible to a paused state in which settlement processing is impossible when the amount of coins stored in the storage unit reaches a predetermined amount or more;
a state control unit that transitions from the normal state to the pause state when the selection button is pressed;
A system comprising : A program that causes a computer to function as a system having a storage unit that stores currency,
The computer
a display control unit that displays a selection button for switching from a normal state in which settlement processing is possible to a paused state in which settlement processing is impossible when the amount of coins stored in the storage unit reaches a predetermined amount or more;
a state control unit that transitions from the normal state to the pause state when the selection button is pressed;
A program characterized by functioning as