JP7789356B2 - Metering equipment and sales systems - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a weighing device and a sales system.

For example, a system that weighs and sells products is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Publication No. 6-50740

However, conventional systems such as those shown in Patent Document 1 do not adequately address the various scenarios expected in volumetric sales, and there is room for improvement.

The present invention was made in light of these circumstances, and its purpose is to provide technology that can be used effectively in a variety of situations that can be expected in volume sales.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the weighing device comprises a weighing means for weighing items and an output means for outputting item purchase information including a purchase weight value based on the weighing value obtained by the weighing means. If the weighing value obtained by the weighing means increases from zero to a positive value and then decreases from the positive value to zero, the output means outputs item purchase information including the positive value as the purchase weight value. If the weighing value increases from zero, never decreases, and becomes a value other than zero, and the weighing value remains unchanged from the non-zero value for a predetermined period of time, the output means outputs information indicating that all of the weighed items remain.

1 is an example of a network configuration of a sales processing system 1 according to an embodiment. 1 is an example of the appearance of a sales unit 2 in which the sales processing system 1 is installed. 1 is an example of the configuration of a weighing device 10. 1 is an example of the external appearance of a weighing device 10. 10 is a diagram showing the weighing device 10 and other components in a state where articles are being removed from the article supply device 100 into a container 120 (when the weighed weight is not stable). FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the weighing device 10 and other components in a state after items have been removed from the item supply device 100 into a container 120 (a state in which the weighed weight is stable). FIG. 1 is an example of the appearance of a weighing device 20. 10 is a diagram showing the weighing device 20 and other components in a state where articles are being discharged from the article supply device 200 into a container 220 (when the weighed weight is not stable). FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the state of the weighing device 20 and other components after the item supply device 200 has finished discharging items into the container 220 (when the weighed weight is stable). FIG. 1 is an example of the appearance of a weighing device 30. 10 is a diagram showing the weighing device 30 and other components in a state where articles are being discharged from an article supply device 300 to the weighing device 30 (when the weighed weight is not stable). FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the weighing device 30 and other components in a state where the items have been discharged from the item supply device 300 to the weighing device 30 (a state where the weighed weight is stable). FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the weighing device 30 and other components in a state where articles are being discharged from the weighing device 30 into a container 320 (a state where the weighed weight is not stable). FIG. FIG. 3 is a side view of the guide body 38 side when the weighing device 30 is disassembled into the main body 30A side and the guide body 38 side, showing the weighing device 30 in a closed state. FIG. 3 is a side view of the guide body 38 side when the weighing device 30 is disassembled into the main body 30A side and the guide body 38 side, showing the weighing device 30 in an open state. 3 is a side view showing the internal structure of the main body 30A side when the weighing device 30 is disassembled into the main body 30A side and the guide body 38 side. FIG. FIG. 2 is a side view showing the internal structure of the weighing device 30 in a closed state. FIG. 2 is a side view showing the internal structure of the weighing device 30 in an open state. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the appearance of a display printing device 40. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the transition of the reference weight, the measured weight, and the purchased weight in the weighing device 10. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 10. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 10. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 10. 10 is a display example of the display unit 15 of the weighing device 10. 10 is a display example of the display unit 15 of the weighing device 10. 10 is a display example of the display unit 15 of the weighing device 10. 10 is a display example of the display unit 15 of the weighing device 10. 10 is a display example of the display unit 15 of the weighing device 10. 10 is a display example of the display unit 15 of the weighing device 10. 10 is a display example of the display unit 15 of the weighing device 10. 10 is a display example of the display unit 15 of the weighing device 10. 10 is a display example of a display unit 45 of a display printing device 40. 10 is a display example of a display unit 45 of a display printing device 40. 10 is a display example of a display unit 45 of a display printing device 40. 10 is a display example of a display unit 45 of a display printing device 40. 10 is a display example of a display unit 45 of a display printing device 40. 10 is a display example of a display unit 45 of a display printing device 40. 10 is a display example of a display unit 45 of a display printing device 40. 10 is a display example of a display unit 45 of a display printing device 40. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the display printing device 40. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the display printing device 40. 10 is a display example of a display unit 45 of a display printing device 40. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the transition of the weighed weight in the weighing device 30. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the transition of the weighed weight in the weighing device 30. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the transition of the weighed weight in the weighing device 30. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the transition of the weighed weight in the weighing device 30. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the transition of the weighed weight in the weighing device 30. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the transition of the weighed weight in the weighing device 30. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 30. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 30. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 30. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 30. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 30. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 30. 10 is a display example of a display unit 45 of a display printing device 40. 10 is a display example of a display unit 45 of a display printing device 40. 10 is a display example of a display unit 45 of a display printing device 40. 10 is a display example of a display unit 45 of a display printing device 40.

Figure 1 shows an example of the network configuration of a sales processing system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The sales processing system 1 includes a weighing device 10, a weighing device 20, a weighing device 30, and a display/printing device 40. For example, as shown in Figure 1, the sales processing system 1 includes six weighing devices 10 (weighing device 10-1, weighing device 10-2, ..., weighing device 10-6), four weighing devices 20 (weighing device 20-1, weighing device 20-2, ..., weighing device 20-4), ten weighing devices 30 (weighing device 30-1, weighing device 30-2, ..., weighing device 30-10), and one display/printing device 40. Note that the number shown is an example. In other words, the number of weighing devices 10 needs to be one or more. The same applies to the number of weighing devices 20, weighing devices 30, and display/printing devices 40.

Each device within the sales processing system 1 is connected to enable communication. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the devices are connected to enable communication, for example, using a multi-drop (chain) system via RS-485. Note that the connection configuration is not limited to the multi-drop system. For example, it may be a star system (type) centered around the display/printing device 40, or a ring system (type) including the display/printing device 40. Wireless communication may also be used. Note that power supply and communication may be performed using a common cable, etc.

Each device that makes up sales processing system 1 (weighing device 10, weighing device 20, weighing device 30, display/printing device 40) is operated by the customer who weighs and purchases the items being sold. In other words, normal processing (transactions) at each device is performed by the customer. On the other hand, specific processing at each device (various setting processes, processing after calling a store clerk, processing after an error occurs, etc.) is performed by the store clerk.

Figure 2 shows an example of the appearance of a sales unit 2 that includes a sales processing system 1. The sales processing system 1 is installed in a store (e.g., a supermarket) that handles items (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as items or merchandise) that are sold by weighing. For example, the sales processing system 1 is installed in a store as a sales unit 2 as shown in Figure 2.

(Sales unit 2)
The sales unit 2 is composed of a shelf 3, a first weighing unit 4A, a second weighing unit 4B, a third weighing unit 4C, and a display printing device 40.

(First measuring unit 4A)
The first weighing unit 4A is composed of six weighing devices 10 and six item supply devices 100. One item supply device 100 is set to each weighing device 10. In other words, the first weighing unit 4A has six pairs of one weighing device 10 and one item supply device 100. Note that a scoop (not shown) is installed near each weighing device 10 (or item supply device 100) to be used when removing items from the item supply device 100.

The item supply device 100 comprises a storage section 101, an input section 102A (see FIG. 5A), an output section 102B (see FIG. 5A), and a lid section 103. The storage section 101 stores items (individuals). The input section 102A is an input port through which items to be stored in the storage section 101 are input. The output section 102B is an output port through which items stored in the storage section 101 are output. The lid section 103 is operated (opened) when an item stored in the storage section 101 is to be output from the output section 102B.

The item supply device 100 is installed so that the weight of the item supply device 100 and the weight of the items stored in the item supply device 100 are measured by the weighing device 10. In other words, the weighing device 10 measures the weight of the item supply device 100 and the items stored in the item supply device 100 when it is waiting for a customer (non-transaction state; standby state). In other words, the weighing device 10 determines the decrease in measured weight before and after the customer removes an item as the purchase weight (sales weight) of the item by that customer.

The weighing device 10 calculates the weight of the items purchased by the customer as the weight of the items measured before and after the customer removes them. Based on the customer's operation (operation of the operation unit 16, described below), the weighing device 10 transmits information (e.g., the weighing device's 10 device identification information and the purchase weight) used to issue labels (also referred to as item labels, product labels, or price-labeled labels) to the display/printing device 40. The device identification information is used to identify each device in the sales processing system 1 (weighing device 10-1, weighing device 10-2, ..., weighing device 20-1, weighing device 20-2, ..., weighing device 30-1, weighing device 30-2, ..., display/printing device 40). The device identification information may be any information that can identify each device at least within the sales processing system 1. The device identification information may be an IP address (Internet Protocol address), a MAC address (Media Access Control address), or identification information agreed upon within the sales processing system 1.

The store clerk places the items to be sold into the item supply device 100. In other words, the store clerk inserts the items into the insertion port 102A.

A customer places a desired amount of items stored in the item supply device 100 into a take-out container (e.g., container 120 shown in Figures 5A and 5B). Specifically, the customer opens the lid 103 and uses a scoop to place the desired amount of items stored in the storage section 101 into the take-out container. The weighing device 10 calculates the decrease in weighed weight before and after the customer removes the items. The customer then closes the lid 103 and operates the weighing device 10 (operation unit 16). As described above, the weighing device 10 transmits information regarding the purchase (weighing) of an item (also referred to as item purchase information or item weighing information) to the display printing device 40 based on the operation of the operation unit 16. Note that the item purchase information (item weighing information) is also information used to display item buttons (described below), and therefore may be referred to as item button display information, or as information used to print and issue labels, and therefore may be referred to as label issuance information. Next, the customer moves to the display/printing device 40 and operates it to print a label.

(Second measuring unit 4B)
The second weighing unit 4B is composed of four weighing devices 20 and four item supply devices 200. One item supply device 200 is set to each weighing device 20. In other words, the second weighing unit 4B has four pairs of one weighing device 20 and one item supply device 200.

The item supply device 200 comprises a storage unit 201 (not shown), an input unit 202A (not shown), a discharge unit 202B, and an item discharge operation unit 203. The storage unit 201 stores an item (liquid). The input unit 202A is an input port through which items to be stored in the storage unit 201 are input. The discharge unit 202B is an output port through which items stored in the storage unit 201 are discharged. The item discharge operation unit 203 is operated when an item stored in the storage unit 201 is discharged from the discharge unit 202B.

The item supply device 200 is installed so that the weight of the item supply device 200 and the weight of the items stored in the item supply device 200 are measured by the weighing device 20. In other words, the weighing device 20 measures the weight of the item supply device 200 and the items stored in the item supply device 200 while waiting for a customer. In other words, the weighing device 20 determines the decrease in the measured weight before and after the customer releases the items as the weight of the items purchased by that customer. The item release operation unit 203 is configured to continue releasing items while the operation is maintained and to stop release when the operation is stopped (for example, a push-button). However, the item release operation unit 203 may also be configured to start releasing items based on a start operation and stop releasing based on a stop operation (for example, a lever or handle).

The weighing device 20 calculates the weight of the items purchased by the customer as the decrease in the weighed weight before and after the customer releases the items. Based on the customer's operation (operation of the operation unit 26, described below), the weighing device 20 sends item purchase information (e.g., the device identification information of the weighing device 20 and the purchased weight) to the display printing device 40.

The store clerk places the items to be sold into the item supply device 200. In other words, the store clerk inserts the items into the insertion section 202A.

The customer places the desired amount of items stored in the item supply device 200 into a take-out container (e.g., container 220 shown in Figures 7A and 7B). Specifically, the customer operates the item release operation unit 203 to release the desired amount of items stored in the storage unit 201 from the release unit 202B and place them into the take-out container. The weighing device 20 calculates the decrease in weighed weight before and after the customer removes the items. The customer then operates the weighing device 20 (operation unit 26). As described above, the weighing device 20 sends item purchase information to the display printing device 40 based on the operation of the operation unit 26. The customer then moves to the display printing device 40 and operates the display printing device 40 to print a label.

(Third measuring unit 4C)
The third weighing unit 4C is composed of ten weighing devices 30 and ten item supply devices 300. One item supply device 300 is set to each weighing device 30. In other words, the third weighing unit 4C has ten pairs, each consisting of one weighing device 30 and one item supply device 300.

The item supply device 300 comprises a storage unit 301, an input unit 302A, a discharge unit 302B, and an item release operation unit 303. The storage unit 301 stores items (individuals). The input unit 302A is an input port through which items to be stored in the storage unit 301 are input. The discharge unit 302B is an output port through which items stored in the storage unit 301 are released. The item release operation unit 303 is configured to start the release of items based on a start operation and to stop the release based on a stop operation (for example, a handle or lever). However, the item release operation unit 303 may also be configured to continue releasing items while the operation is maintained and to stop the release when the operation is stopped (for example, a push-button).

The weighing device 30 stores the items released from the item supply device 300 (release section 302B). The weighing device 30 weighs the stored items. The weighing device 30 releases the weighed items based on the operation of the item release operation section 36. When the weighing device 30 has released all of the weighed items, it transmits item purchase information (e.g., the device identification information of the weighing device 30, the purchased weight) to the display printing device 40.

The store clerk places the items to be sold into the item supply device 300. In other words, the store clerk inserts the items into the insertion section 302A.

The customer transfers the desired amount of items stored in the item supply device 300 to the weighing device 30. Specifically, the customer operates the item release operation unit 303 to release the desired amount of items stored in the storage unit 301 from the release unit 302B and store them in the weighing device 30. The weighing device 30 weighs the stored items (the desired amount of items). Next, the customer transfers all of the items (the items whose weights have been measured) stored in the weighing device 30 into take-out containers (e.g., container 320 shown in Figure 9C). Specifically, the customer operates the item release operation unit 36 to release all of the items from the weighing device 30 into the take-out containers. As described above, the weighing device 30 sends item purchase information to the display printing device 40 based on the fact that all of the items have been released into the take-out containers. Next, the customer moves to the display/printing device 40 and operates it to print a label.

(Measuring device 10)
FIG. 3 shows an example of the configuration of the weighing device 10. FIG. 4 shows an example of the external appearance of the weighing device 10. FIG. 5A is a diagram showing the weighing device 10 and other components in a state where articles are being removed from the article supply device 100 to a container 120 (a state where the weighed weight is unstable). FIG. 5B is an explanatory diagram showing the weighing device 10 and other components in a state where articles have been removed from the article supply device 100 to a container 120 (a state where the weighed weight is stable). In FIGS. 3, 4, 5A, and 5B, identical parts are designated by the same reference numerals. The weighing device 10 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 3, 4, 5A, and 5B.

The weighing device 10 includes a CPU 11, a ROM 12, a RAM 13, a weighing unit 14, a display unit 15, an operation unit 16, and a communication unit 17. These are connected to each other via a bus.

The CPU 11 controls the operation of the weighing device 10 by reading and executing programs stored in the ROM 12. For example, the CPU 11 calculates the decrease in the weighed weight before and after a customer removes an item (item stored in the item supply device 100) as the weight of the item purchased by that customer.

ROM 12 is a read-only memory that stores various information used by CPU 11, such as programs. RAM 13 is a read/write memory that stores various information, such as information read from ROM 12, information processed (calculated, generated, updated, etc.) by CPU 11, information referenced by CPU 11 in the above processing, information obtained via communication unit 17, and information obtained by weighing unit 14. For example, RAM 13 stores a reference weight (the combined weight of item supply device 100 and the items contained in item supply device 100 before the start of a transaction) for calculating the decrease in the weighed weight, a warning weight for notifying the user of the need to replenish or replace items contained in item supply device 100, and the unit price of items (items contained in the paired item supply device 100) obtained via communication unit 17.

The weighing unit 14 weighs the weight of the items placed on the platform 14a. The weighing unit 14 measures the weight of the items, for example, using a weight detection method using a load cell. Specifically, as shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the weighing unit 14 measures the combined weight of the item supply device 100 and the items stored in the item supply device 100.

Display unit 15 displays the purchased weight and other information to the customer. Display unit 15 is composed of five displays (display unit 15a, display unit 15b, display unit 15c, display unit 15d, and display unit 15e). Display unit 15 (display unit 15a to display unit 15e) may be, for example, a liquid crystal panel.

Display 15a displays the purchase weight. When display 15a is in the process of removing items from item supply device 100 to container 120 (when the weighed weight is unstable), it may display information indicating that the display is being prepared (for example, a dashed rectangle or dashed "- - -" as shown in FIG. 5A). Display 15b displays the unit price of the items to be purchased (items stored in item supply device 100). Display 15c displays the purchase amount (purchase price, sale amount, sale price) of the items equivalent to the purchase weight. When display 15c is in the process of removing items from item supply device 100 to container 120 (when the weighed weight is unstable), it may display information indicating that the display is being prepared, as shown in FIG. 5A. Display 15d displays the weighed weight. In other words, display 15d displays the combined weight of item supply device 100 and the items stored in that item supply device 100.

The display 15e displays the state (status) of the weighing device 10. For example, when the display 15e is in a state where items are being removed from the item supply device 100 to the container 120 (when the weighing weight is unstable), it displays a mark (icon) such as that shown in Figure 5A. Furthermore, when the display 15e is in a state where items have been removed from the item supply device 100 to the container 120 (when the weighing weight is stable), it displays a mark such as that shown in Figure 5B.

In the example shown in FIG. 5A, display 15a displays information indicating that it is preparing to display, display 15b displays "500 (yen/100g)," display 15c displays information indicating that it is preparing to display, and display 15d displays "1100 (g)." In the example shown in FIG. 5B, display 15a displays "150 (g)," display 15b displays "500 (yen/100g)," display 15c displays "750 (yen)," and display 15d displays "1050 (g)."

The operation unit 16 accepts operations by the customer. In this embodiment, the operation unit 16 is one or more hard buttons (push buttons) arranged on the housing, but it may also be one or more soft buttons (touch buttons) that are displayed in an operable manner. In other words, the display unit 15 may be a touch panel that displays the purchased weight to the customer and accepts operations by the customer. The same applies to the display unit 25 (described below) and operation unit 26 (described below) provided on the weighing device 20.

The communication unit 17 transmits and receives information to and from other devices. For example, the communication unit 17 transmits product purchase information to the display printing device 40 based on operation of the operation unit 16.

Although not shown in the figures, the weighing device 10 may also be equipped with a hard disk. The hard disk may store various information in place of or in addition to the RAM 13. The same applies to the weighing device 20, the weighing device 30, and the display/printer 40. The weighing device 10 may also be equipped with an SSD (Solid State Drive) in place of a hard disk. The same applies to the weighing device 20, the weighing device 30, and the display/printer 40.

The weighing device 10 may also be equipped with a timing unit (timing function). For example, the weighing device 10 may use the timing unit to manage the current time, the time remaining until a certain time, or the time elapsed since a certain state was reached. The same applies to the weighing device 20 and the display/printing device 40. The weighing device 10 may also be equipped with an audio output unit. For example, the weighing device 10 may output audio depending on the situation (e.g., an error audio). The same applies to the weighing device 20, the weighing device 30, and the display/printing device 40. The weighing device 10 may also be equipped with a human presence sensor. For example, the weighing device 10 may use the human presence sensor to determine whether or not a person is present in the vicinity (e.g., in front of the weighing device 10). The same applies to the weighing device 20, the weighing device 30, and the display/printing device 40.

(Measuring device 20)
Fig. 6 is an example of the external appearance of the weighing device 20. Fig. 7A is a diagram showing the weighing device 20 and other components in a state where articles are being discharged from the article supply device 200 to the container 220 (a state where no weighing has been performed). Fig. 7B is a diagram showing the weighing device 20 and other components in a state where articles have been discharged from the article supply device 200 to the container 220 (a state where the weighing weight is stable). In Figs. 6, 7A, and 7B, identical parts are designated by the same reference numerals. The weighing device 20 will be described below with reference to Figs. 6, 7A, and 7B.

Although a block diagram is omitted, weighing device 20, like weighing device 10, is equipped with a CPU, ROM, RAM, weighing unit, display unit, operation unit, and communication unit. Hereinafter, the CPU, ROM, RAM, weighing unit, display unit, operation unit, and communication unit of weighing device 20 will be referred to as CPU 21, ROM 22, RAM 23, weighing unit 24, display unit 25, operation unit 26, and communication unit 27, respectively. CPU 21, ROM 22, RAM 23, weighing unit 24, display unit 25, operation unit 26, and communication unit 27 are connected to each other via a bus.

Similar to the CPU 11 of the weighing device 10, the CPU 21 calculates, for example, the decrease in the weighed weight before and after the customer releases an item (item stored in the item supply device 200) as the weight of the item purchased by that customer.

The ROM 22, like the ROM 12 of the weighing device 10, stores various information used by the CPU 21, including programs. The RAM 23, like the RAM 13 of the weighing device 10, stores, for example, a reference weight (the combined weight of the item supply device 200 and the items contained in the item supply device 200 before the transaction begins) for calculating the decrease in the weighed weight, a warning weight for notifying the user of the need to replenish or replace items contained in the item supply device 200, and the unit price of items (items contained in the paired item supply device 200) obtained via the communication unit 27.

Like the weighing unit 14 of the weighing device 10, the weighing unit 24 measures the weight of the items using, for example, a weight detection method using a load cell. Specifically, as shown in Figures 7A and 7B, the weighing unit 24 measures the combined weight of the item supply device 200 and the items contained in the item supply device 200.

The configuration of the display unit 25 is the same as the configuration of the display unit 15 of the weighing device 10. For example, when the display unit 25 is in a state where articles are being discharged from the article supply device 200 to the container 220 (when the weighed weight is unstable), it displays the respective information on each display (display unit 25a, display unit 25b, display unit 25c, display unit 25d, display unit 25e) as shown in FIG. 7A. Furthermore, when the display unit 25 has finished discharging articles from the article supply device 200 to the container 220 (when the weighed weight is stable), it displays the respective information on each display as shown in FIG. 7B.

In the example shown in FIG. 7A, display 25a displays information indicating that it is preparing to display, display 25b displays "125 (yen/100g)," display 25c displays information indicating that it is preparing to display, and display 25d displays "3980 (g)." In the example shown in FIG. 7B, display 25a displays "120 (g)," display 25b displays "125 (yen/100g)," display 25c displays "150 (yen)," and display 25d displays "3880 (g)."

The operation unit 26, like the operation unit 16 of the weighing device 10, accepts operations from the customer. The communication unit 27, like the communication unit 17 of the weighing device 10, sends and receives information to other devices. For example, the communication unit 27 sends item purchase information to the display printing device 40 based on operations on the operation unit 26.

(Measuring device 30)
FIG. 8 is an example of the external appearance of the weighing device 30. FIG. 9A is a diagram showing the weighing device 30 and other components in a state where articles are being discharged from the article supply device 300 to the weighing device 30 (a state where the weighed weight is unstable). FIG. 9B is a diagram showing the weighing device 30 and other components in a state where articles have been discharged from the article supply device 300 to the weighing device 30 (a state where the weighed weight is stable). FIG. 9C is a diagram showing the weighing device 30 and other components in a state where articles are being discharged from the weighing device 30 to a container 320 (a state where the weighed weight is unstable). In FIG. 8 and FIGS. 9A to 9C (as well as FIGS. 10A to 10E), identical parts are designated by the same reference numerals. The weighing device 30 will be described below with reference to FIG. 8 and FIGS. 9A to 9C.

Although a block diagram is omitted, the weighing device 30 comprises a CPU, ROM, RAM, a weighing unit, a display unit, and a communication unit. Hereinafter, the CPU, ROM, RAM, weighing unit, display unit, and communication unit of the weighing device 30 will be referred to as CPU 31, ROM 32, RAM 33, weighing unit 34, display unit 35, and communication unit 37, respectively. The CPU 31, ROM 32, RAM 33, weighing unit 34, display unit 35, and communication unit 37 are connected to each other via a bus. The weighing device 30 also comprises a timing unit (timing function). Furthermore, the weighing device 30 comprises an item discharge operation unit 36, a guide 38 (described below), a lid 39 (described below), etc.

The CPU 31 controls the operation of the weighing device 30 by reading and executing programs stored in the ROM 32. For example, the CPU 31 calculates the weighed weight of the items supplied from the item supply device 300 as the weight of the items purchased by the customer.

ROM 32 is a read-only memory that stores various information used by CPU 31, including programs. RAM 33 is a read/write memory that stores various information, such as information read from ROM 32, information processed (calculated, generated, updated, etc.) by CPU 31, information referenced by CPU 31 in the above processing, information obtained via communication unit 37, and information obtained by weighing unit 34. For example, RAM 33 stores a judgment weight (sometimes referred to as a judgment weight) used to determine an increase or decrease in the weighed weight (i.e., whether an item is being released from item supply device 300 to weighing device 30 or from weighing device 30 to container 320), and the unit price of the item (item contained in the paired item supply device 300) obtained via communication unit 37.

The weighing unit 34 weighs the weight of the item guided (contained) by the guide body 38. The weighing unit 34 measures the weight of the item using, for example, a weight detection method using a load cell.

Display unit 35 displays the purchased weight and other information to the customer. Display unit 35 is composed of four displays (display unit 35a, display unit 35b, display unit 35c, and display unit 35e). Display unit 35 (display unit 35a to display unit 35c, display unit 35e) may be, for example, a liquid crystal panel.

Display 35a displays the purchase weight (weighed weight). When items are being released from the weighing device 30 to the container 320 (when the weighed weight is unstable), display 35a may display information indicating that the display is being prepared, as shown in FIG. 9C. Display 35b displays the unit price of the items to be purchased (items stored in the item supply device 300). Display 35c displays the purchase price for the items equivalent to the purchase weight. When items are being released from the item supply device 300 to the weighing device 30 (when the weighed weight is unstable), display 35c may display information indicating that the display is being prepared, as shown in FIG. 9A.

The display 35e displays the status of the weighing device 10. For example, when the item supply device 300 is discharging items to the weighing device 30 (when the weighing weight is unstable), the display 35e displays a mark such as that shown in FIG. 9A. Furthermore, when the item supply device 300 has finished discharging items to the weighing device 30 (when the weighing weight is stable), the display 35e displays a mark such as that shown in FIG. 9B. Furthermore, when the weighing device 30 is discharging items to the container 320 (when the weighing weight is unstable), the display 35e displays a mark such as that shown in FIG. 9C.

In the example shown in FIG. 9A, display 35a displays "50 (g)," display 25b displays "400 (yen/100g)," and display 25c displays information that the display is being prepared. In the example shown in FIG. 9B, display 35a displays "300 (g)," display 25b displays "400 (yen/100g)," and display 25c displays "1200 (yen)." In the example shown in FIG. 9C, display 35a displays information that the display is being prepared, display 25b displays "400 (yen/100g)," and display 25c displays "1200 (yen)."

The communication unit 37 transmits and receives information to and from other devices. For example, when all weighed items have been released, the communication unit 37 transmits item purchase information to the display printing device 40.

(Storage and weighing of items)
Fig. 10A is a side view of the guide body 38 side when the weighing device 30 is disassembled into the main body 30A side and the guide body 38 side, showing the device in a closed state. Fig. 10B is a side view of the guide body 38 side when the weighing device 30 is disassembled into the main body 30A side and the guide body 38 side, showing the device in an open state. Fig. 10C is a side view showing the internal structure of the main body 30A side when the weighing device 30 is disassembled into the main body 30A side and the guide body 38 side. Fig. 10D is a side view showing the internal structure of the weighing device 30 when it is in a closed state. Fig. 10E is a side view showing the internal structure of the weighing device 30 when it is in an open state.

As shown in Figures 10A and 10B, the weighing device 30 comprises a guide body 38, an operation transmission mechanism 36C, and a lid body 39. The guide body 38 has a receiving side opening 38A on the upper side, a discharge side opening 38B on the lower side, and an engaging protrusion 38C on its side. In Figure 10A, the discharge side opening 38B is not shown because it is covered by the lid body 39. Figures 10A and 10B show two engaging protrusions 38C on one side (the side on which the operation transmission mechanism 36C is provided), but the guide body 38 also has two engaging protrusions 38C on its other side. The operation transmission mechanism 36C and the lid body 39 are provided around the guide body 38.

As shown in Figure 10C, a display unit 35 and an article discharge operation unit 36 are provided on the front panel 30B on the front of the main body 30A. The main body 30A has a hollow section 30C that is open at the top and bottom behind the front panel 30B. A weighing unit 34 is provided behind the hollow section 30C of the main body 30A. The weighing unit 34 has an engagement recess 34A on the hollow section 30C side. While Figure 10C shows two engagement recesses 34A provided on one side, the weighing unit 34 also has two engagement recesses 34A on the other side.

The receiving side opening 38A of the guide body 38 is an opening that receives articles discharged from the article supply device 300. The discharging side opening 38B of the guide body 38 is an opening that discharges the articles received by the receiving side opening 38A into the container 320. The discharging side opening 38B has a narrower opening width than the receiving side opening 38A. In other words, the interior of the guide body 38 gradually narrows from the receiving side opening 38A to the discharging side opening 38B, as shown in Figures 10A and 10B.

The lid body 39 operates in response to the operation of the operation transmission mechanism 36C, which operates in response to operation of the article discharge operation unit 36. Specifically, when the operation transmission mechanism 36C is in the position shown in Figure 10A (a position where the tip is not pressed down; initial position), the lid body 39 is in a position where it covers the discharge side opening 38B (a position where it prevents the discharge of articles from the discharge side opening 38B), and when the operation transmission mechanism 36C is in the position shown in Figure 10B (a position where the tip is pressed down), the lid body 39 operates in response to the operation of the operation transmission mechanism 36C (i.e., operation of the article discharge operation unit 36) in such a way that it is in a position where it does not cover the discharge side opening 38B (a position where it does not prevent the discharge of articles from the discharge side opening 38B). In other words, the weighing device 30 has a state in which it is not possible to release items from the guide body 38 (release side opening 38B) (also referred to as a closed state or storage state), and a state in which it is possible to release items from the guide body 38 (release side opening 38B) (also referred to as an open state or release state), and both states (closed state, open state) change depending on the operation of the item release operation unit 36.

10D and 10E, the weighing device 30 is used with the guide 38, etc. (guide 38, operation transmission mechanism 36C, lid 39) fitted into the hollow portion 30C of the main body 30A so that the engagement recess 34A of the weighing unit 34 engages with the engagement protrusion 38C of the guide 38. In this state, the guide 38, etc. are supported by the weighing unit 34 (engagement recess 34A) so that the total weight (including the weight of the items contained in the guide 38, if any) is measured by the weighing unit 34. This allows the weighing unit 34 to measure the weight of the items contained in the guide 38. The weighing device 30 may store the weight of the guide 38, etc. as the tare weight, so that when no items are contained in the guide 38, the display unit 35 (display 35a) displays zero as the purchase weight (weighed weight). The engagement between the engagement protrusion 38C and the engagement recess 34A can be released (the guide body 38 and other components can be detached from the main body 30A).

As shown in Figures 8 and 9A-9C, the item release operation unit 36 is operated from one end (outside the front panel 30B). The other end (towards the hollow section 30C) of the item release operation unit 36 protrudes towards the hollow section 30C. The item release operation unit 36 is biased upward by a spring 36B. When the item release operation unit 36 is not pressed down (non-operating state; initial state), it does not come into contact with the operation transmission mechanism 36C (does not press down on the operation transmission mechanism 36C), as shown in Figure 10D. When the item release operation unit 36 is pressed down (operating state), it comes into contact with the operation transmission mechanism 36C and presses down on the operation transmission mechanism 36C, as shown in Figure 10E.

A sector gear 36D is formed at one end of the interior side of the operation transmission mechanism 36C. The lid body 39 operates in accordance with the rotation of gear portion 39A, which is its axis. Sector gear 36D and gear portion 39A are in mesh with each other. The lid body 39 is also biased by spring 39B to cover the discharge side opening 38B (to prevent items from being discharged from the discharge side opening 38B).

As shown in Figure 10D, when the article release operation unit 36 is not pressed down, the lid body 39 does not receive rotational force from the operation transmission mechanism 36C (sector gear 36D), and therefore the urging force of the spring 39B causes the lid body 39 to assume a position that covers the release side opening 38B (preventing articles from being released from the release side opening 38B). On the other hand, as shown in Figure 10E, when the article release operation unit 36 is pressed down, the rotational force from the operation transmission mechanism 36C (sector gear 36D) causes the lid body 39 to resist the urging force of the spring 39B and not cover the release side opening 38B (preventing articles from being released from the release side opening 38B). In other words, articles received through the receiving side opening 38A are stored in the guide body 38 until the article release operation unit 36 is operated, and are then released from the release side opening 38B in response to the operation of the article release operation unit 36.

(Display printing device 40)
11 shows an example of the appearance of the display/printing device 40. Although a structural diagram is omitted, the display/printing device 40 includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, a display unit, a communication unit, and a printing unit. Hereinafter, the CPU, ROM, RAM, display unit, communication unit, and printing unit included in the display/printing device 40 will be referred to as CPU 41, ROM 42, RAM 43, display unit 45, communication unit 47, and printing unit 48, respectively. These are connected to each other via a bus.

The CPU 41 controls the operation of the display/printing device 40 by reading and executing programs stored in the ROM 42. For example, the CPU 41 controls the display by the display unit 45. The CPU 41 also controls the printing and issuance of labels by the printing unit 48.

ROM 42 is a read-only memory that stores various information used by CPU 41, including programs. RAM 43 is a read/write memory that stores various information, such as information read from ROM 42, information processed (calculated, generated, updated, etc.) by CPU 41, information referenced by CPU 41 in the above processing, information obtained via communication unit 47, and the unit price of each item. For example, RAM 43 stores the items (item names), unit prices, images, etc. of the items weighed by each weighing device (items contained in the item supply device corresponding to each weighing device) in association with the device identification information of each weighing device.

The display unit 45 is, for example, a liquid crystal touch panel. The display unit 45 displays various information to the customer and accepts operations from the customer. For example, the display unit 45 displays an item selection screen (product selection screen) on which item buttons (product buttons) are arranged for selecting (specifying) items for which labels are to be printed and issued, and a label issuance instruction screen for accepting instructions to print and issue labels.

The communication unit 47 transmits and receives information to and from other devices. For example, the communication unit 47 receives item purchase information from each weighing device. The printing unit 48 prints and issues labels based on customer operations (for example, operations on the label issuance instruction screen). Figure 11 shows the label issuance port 48a.

The display printing device 40 is equipped with a sensor that detects when a label printed and issued by the printing unit 48 is removed from the label issuing port 48a (when a customer receives a label from the label issuing port 48a).

(Operation of the weighing device to calculate the purchase weight as the amount of the measured weight reduction)
The weighing device 10 of the first weighing unit 4A calculates the decrease in the weighed weight as the purchased weight of the item. A transaction in the first weighing unit 4A begins when an item is removed from the item supply device 100 into a container 120 while waiting for a customer, and ends when the operation unit 16 of the weighing device 10 is operated. The weighing device 10 calculates the purchased weight by subtracting the weighed weight at the end of the transaction (the stable weighed weight when the operation unit 16 is operated) from the weighed weight before the transaction started (the reference weight).

Normally, a transaction in the first weighing unit 4A begins when an item is removed from the item supply device 100 and placed in a container 120 while waiting for a customer, so the weight measured by the weighing device 10 decreases from the reference weight (the weight measured before the transaction began) (becomes less than the reference weight). However, if an item is inserted into (returned from) the item supply device 100 while waiting for a customer, the weight measured by the weighing device 10 increases from the reference weight (becomes greater than the reference weight).

If the weight measured by the weighing device 10 increases from the reference weight, the purchase weight calculated by the weighing device 10 will be a negative value, making it impossible to calculate the actual purchase amount. For example, in a situation where customer A returns items to the item supply device 100 and leaves, and then customer B takes items from the item supply device 100, if the weight of the items taken by customer B is less than the weight of the items returned by customer A, customer B's purchase amount will be negative; if the weight of the items taken by customer B is equal to the weight of the items returned by customer A, customer B's purchase amount will be zero; and even if the weight of the items taken by customer B is greater than the weight of the items returned by customer A, customer B's purchase amount will be reduced by the weight of the items returned by customer A.

Therefore, in the first weighing unit 4A, an increase in weighed weight from the customer waiting state is considered an abnormal state, and the abnormal state is notified to the store staff, who then resolves the abnormal state.

Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the trends in the reference weight, measured weight, and purchased weight in the weighing device 10. In Figure 12, the horizontal axis represents time (time). The vertical axis represents weight (weight value). In the figure, the thick solid line L1 represents the reference weight, the thin solid line L2 represents the measured weight, and the dashed line L3 represents the purchased weight. Weights are indicated numerically above each line (thick solid line L1, thin solid line L2, dashed line L3), as appropriate. For convenience, the diagonal portions of each line (portions where the value increases or decreases) are shown as straight lines. The figure also illustrates the status of the weighing device 10 as displayed by the display 15e.

Each time indicates the following:
Time Ta0 to Ta1: Waiting for customers Time Ta1 to Ta3: Trading (normal time)
Time Ta3 to Ta4: Waiting for customers Time Ta4 to Ta8: Trading (normal)
Time Ta8-Ta9: Waiting for customers Time Ta9-Ta11: Trading in progress (abnormal)
Time Ta11 to Ta12: Waiting for customers

The reference weight, measured weight, purchased weight, etc. at each time during normal trading will be explained using transactions Ta4 to Ta8 as an example.
Time Ta4 to Ta5: As items are removed from the item supply device 100 and placed in the container 120, the weighed weight decreases and the purchased weight increases. The reference weight does not change from time Ta4 to Ta5. Therefore, from time Ta4 to Ta5, the weighed weight is smaller than the reference weight.
Time Ta5 to Ta6: After items are removed from the item supply device 100 to the container 120, the weighed weight and purchased weight are stable. The reference weight does not change from time Ta5 to Ta6. Therefore, from time Ta5 to Ta6, the weighed weight is smaller than the reference weight.
Time Ta6 to Ta7: As items are removed from the item supply device 100 to the container 120, the weighed weight decreases and the purchased weight increases. The reference weight does not change from time Ta6 to Ta7. Therefore, from time Ta6 to Ta7, the weighed weight is smaller than the reference weight.
Time Ta7-Ta8: After items are removed from the item supply device 100 and placed in the container 120, the weighed weight and purchased weight are stable. The reference weight does not change from time Ta7-Ta8. Therefore, from time Ta7-Ta8, the weighed weight is smaller than the reference weight.
Time Ta8: The reference weight is updated (reference weight←weighed weight) by operating the operation unit 16. As a result of updating the reference weight (reference weight←weighed weight), the reference weight and the weighed weight become equal, and the purchase weight becomes zero.

The reference weight, measured weight, purchased weight, etc. at each time during the abnormal transaction will be explained using transactions Ta9 to Ta11 as an example.
Time Ta9 to Ta10: As items are added to the item supply device 100, the weighed weight increases and the purchased weight decreases. The reference weight does not change from time Ta9 to Ta10. Therefore, from time Ta9 to Ta10, the weighed weight is greater than the reference weight.
Time Ta10 to Ta11: After items are input into the item supply device 100, the weighed weight and purchased weight are stable. The reference weight does not change from time Ta10 to Ta11. Therefore, from time Ta10 to Ta11, the weighed weight is greater than the reference weight.
Time Ta11: The reference weight is updated (reference weight <- weighed weight) by an operation by the store clerk to resolve the abnormal condition (a purchase weight reset operation, described below). As a result of updating the reference weight (reference weight <- weighed weight), the reference weight and the weighed weight are now equal, so the purchase weight is zero.

Figures 13A to 13C are flowcharts showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 10. When the weighing device 10 is in the waiting state for a customer, it executes the processing of the flowchart in Figure 13A. Note that when the weighing device 10 is in the waiting state for a customer, it does not display anything as a status indicator (display on the display 15e), as shown in Figure 12 (times Ta0 to Ta1).

(Flowchart of FIG. 13A)
Step S1: The weighing device 10 determines whether or not the weighed weight has changed. If the weighed weight has changed, the process proceeds to step S2.
Step S2: The weighing device 10 displays information indicating that the purchase weight is being prepared for display, and displays information indicating that the purchase amount is being prepared for display, and then proceeds to step S3.

Step S3: The weighing device 10 determines whether the measured weight is less than the reference weight. In other words, the weighing device 10 determines whether an item has been removed from the item supplying device 100 or whether an item has been added to the item supplying device 100. If the measured weight is less than the reference weight (if an item has been removed from the item supplying device 100), proceed to step S4. If the measured weight is more than the reference weight (if an item has been added to the item supplying device 100), proceed to step S44.

If it is determined that the weighed weight has changed since the waiting state for customers (step S1 (YES)), the display of step S2 is followed by the determination of step S3. However, the determination process of step S3 may be performed after a predetermined time has elapsed since it was determined in step S1 that the weighed weight had changed. If X is the average time required from a change in the weighed weight until the weighed weight stabilizes, the predetermined time may be approximately one-tenth to one-half of X. The same applies when it is determined in step S24 of Figure 13B that the weighed weight has changed (step S24 (YES)) and the determination of step S3 is performed again.

Processing from step S4 onwards is normal processing. Processing from step S44 onwards is abnormal processing.

(Normal processing)
Step S4: The weighing device 10 changes the status display. Specifically, the weighing device 10 displays a mark such as that shown in Fig. 5A on the display 15e. Then, the process proceeds to step S7.
Step S7: The weighing device 10 displays the weighed weight on the display 15d, and then proceeds to step S8.
Step S8: The weighing device 10 calculates the purchase weight by subtracting the measured weight from the reference weight. Note that the purchase weight calculated in step S8 will be a positive value. Next, the process proceeds to step S9.
Step S9: The weighing device 10 determines whether the weighed weight is stable. If the weighed weight is stable, the process proceeds to step S10. If the weighed weight is not stable, the process returns to step S7.
Step S10: The weighing device 10 displays the purchase weight on the display 15a. That is, the weighing device 10 displays the purchase weight calculated in the last executed step S8. Then, the process proceeds to step S11.
Step S11: The weighing device 10 calculates the purchase amount based on the unit price and the purchased weight, and displays it on the display 15c. Note that the purchase amount calculated in step S11 will be a positive value. Next, proceed to step S20 in FIG. 13B.

(Flowchart of FIG. 13B)
Step S20: The weighing device 10 changes the status display. Specifically, the weighing device 10 displays a mark such as that shown in Fig. 5B on the display 15e. Then, the process proceeds to step S22.
Step S22: The weighing device 10 determines whether a confirmation operation has been performed. Specifically, the weighing device 10 determines whether an operation (normal press) has been performed on the operation unit 16. The customer checks the purchased weight and purchase price, and if there are no problems, operates the operation unit 16 to confirm. If a confirmation operation has been performed, the process proceeds to step S26. If a confirmation operation has not been performed, the process proceeds to step S23.
Step S23: The weighing device 10 determines whether a purchase weight reset operation has been performed. A purchase weight reset operation is an operation performed by a store clerk in an abnormal situation (when the determination in step S3 is NO). In an abnormal situation, the store clerk performs a special operation on the operation unit 16 (for example, operating a hidden button) to reset the purchase weight. Because the situation in step S23 is not an abnormal situation, the process proceeds to step S24 regardless of whether a purchase weight reset has been performed. In other words, the weighing device 10 ignores the purchase weight reset operation.
Step S24: The weighing device 10 determines whether the weighed weight has changed. If the weighed weight has changed, the process returns to step S2 in Fig. 13A. If the weighed weight has not changed, the process returns to step S22.

Step S26: The weighing device 10 transmits the product purchase information (device identification information of the weighing device 10, and the purchase weight) to the display-printing device 40. Next, the process proceeds to step S27.
Step S27: The weighing device 10 changes the status display. Specifically, the weighing device 10 displays a mark (the check mark shown at times Ta3 and Ta8 in FIG. 12) on the display 15e to indicate that the item purchase information has been sent to the display-printer 40. Then, proceed to step S28.
Step S28: The weighing device 10 updates the reference weight. Specifically, the weighing device 10 stores the measured weight as the reference weight. That is, the weighing device 10 stores the stable weight after the transaction in the memory unit (RAM 13) as a new reference weight for the next transaction. Then, proceed to step S29.

Step S29: The weighing device 10 displays zero as the purchase weight on the display 15a and zero as the purchase amount on the display 15c. The process then proceeds to step S30. The weighing device 10 may also calculate the purchase weight by subtracting the measured weight from the reference weight, as in step S8 of FIG. 13A, and display the result on the display 15a. However, since the reference weight and the measured weight are now equal through the processing of step S28, this calculation is omitted. Similarly, the weighing device 10 may calculate the purchase amount based on the unit price and the purchase weight, as in step S11 of FIG. 13A, and display the result on the display 15c. However, since the reference weight and the measured weight are now equal through the processing of step S28, this calculation is omitted. The same applies to step S89 of FIG. 13C.
Step S30: The weighing device 10 changes the status display. Specifically, the weighing device 10 updates the display on the display 15e to a mark indicating a customer waiting state, i.e., does not display anything as shown at times Ta3 to Ta4 and times Ta8 to Ta9 in Figure 12. Next, proceed to step S31.

Step S31: The weighing device 10 determines whether the reference weight (or measured weight) is less than a predetermined warning weight. In other words, the weighing device 10 determines whether the weight (remaining amount) of the items stored in the item supply device 100 has decreased enough to warrant a warning. If it is less than the warning weight, proceed to step S32. If it is not less than the warning weight, this flowchart ends (return to step S1 in Figure 13A).

Step S32: The weighing device 10 outputs a message indicating that the remaining amount of an item is low. For example, the weighing device 10 sends warning information indicating that the remaining amount of an item is low (the weighing device 10's device identification information, code information indicating that the remaining amount of an item is low) to a terminal used by a store clerk (e.g., a POS terminal used by a store clerk, a smartphone or tablet terminal used by a store clerk, etc.; hereinafter, these may be referred to as a store clerk terminal). Instead of or in addition to sending the warning information to the store clerk terminal, the weighing device 10 may also send the warning information to the display/printer 40. This flowchart then ends (returning to step S1 in Figure 13A).

In step S32, the weighing device 10 may output an audio warning from the audio output unit indicating that the remaining amount of goods is low, instead of or in addition to sending the above-mentioned warning information to the store clerk terminal or display/printing device 40. The weighing device 10 will stop outputting the audio warning when goods are replenished in the goods supply device 100 and the reference weight is no longer less than the warning weight.

(Handling in the event of an abnormality)
Step S44: The weighing device 10 changes the status display. Specifically, the weighing device 10 displays marks such as those shown at times Ta9 to Ta11 in Figure 12 (marks such as those shown in Figure 14G) on the display 15e. Then, proceed to step S47.
Step S47: The weighing device 10 displays the weighed weight on the display 15d, and then proceeds to step S48.
Step S48: The weighing device 10 calculates the purchase weight by subtracting the measured weight from the reference weight. Note that the purchase weight calculated in step S48 will be a negative value. Next, the process proceeds to step S49.
Step S49: The weighing device 10 determines whether the weighed weight is stable. If the weighed weight is stable, the process proceeds to step S50. If the weighed weight is not stable, the process returns to step S47.
Step S50: The weighing device 10 displays the purchase weight on the display 15a. That is, the weighing device 10 displays the purchase weight calculated in the last executed step S48. Then, the process proceeds to step S51.
Step S51: The weighing device 10 calculates the purchase price based on the unit price and the purchased weight, and displays it on the display 15c. Note that the purchase price calculated in step S51 will be a negative value. Next, proceed to step S62 in FIG. 13C.

(Flowchart of FIG. 13C)
Step S62: The weighing device 10 determines whether a confirmation operation has been performed. A confirmation operation is performed under normal circumstances. Since the situation in step S62 is not under normal circumstances, the weighing device 10 proceeds to step S63 regardless of whether a confirmation operation has been performed. In other words, the weighing device 10 ignores the confirmation operation.
Step S63: The weighing device 10 determines whether or not a purchase weight reset operation has been performed. If a purchase weight reset operation has been performed, the process proceeds to step S88. If a purchase weight reset operation has not been performed, the process proceeds to step S64.
Step S64: The weighing device 10 determines whether the weighed weight has changed. If the weighed weight has changed, the process proceeds to step S72. If the weighed weight has not changed, the process returns to step S62.

In addition, if a customer puts an item into the item supply device 100 and before the purchase weight reset operation is performed, that customer or another customer who appears after that customer leaves puts an item into the item supply device 100, or if a customer puts an item into the item supply device 100 and before the purchase weight reset operation is performed, that customer or another customer who appears after that customer leaves takes an item out of the item supply device 100, proceed to step S72.

Step S72: The weighing device 10 displays information indicating that the purchase weight is being prepared for display, and displays information indicating that the purchase amount is being prepared for display, and then proceeds to step S77.
Step S77: The weighing device 10 displays the weighed weight on the display 15d, and then proceeds to step S78.
Step S78: The weighing device 10 calculates the purchase weight by subtracting the measured weight from the reference weight. Then, the process proceeds to step S79.
Step S79: The weighing device 10 determines whether the weighed weight is stable. If the weighed weight is stable, the process proceeds to step S80. If the weighed weight is not stable, the process returns to step S77.
Step S80: The weighing device 10 displays the purchase weight on the display 15a. That is, the weighing device 10 displays the purchase weight calculated in the last executed step S78. Then, the process proceeds to step S81.
Step S81: The weighing device 10 calculates the purchase amount based on the unit price and the purchased weight, and displays it on the display 15c. Then, the process returns to step S62.

Note that the processing of steps S72 to S81 following step S64 (YES) is part of the abnormality processing, and therefore does not determine whether the weighed weight is less than the reference weight (a determination similar to step S3 in FIG. 13A) or update the status (a change of status similar to step S4 in FIG. 13A). When proceeding to step S72 due to the removal of an item from the item supply device 100, it is possible that the weighed weight will be less than the reference weight. However, even if the weighed weight is less than the reference weight, abnormality processing continues (returning to step S62), and therefore it is no longer necessary to determine whether the weighed weight is less than the reference weight or update the status.

Step S88: The weighing device 10 updates the reference weight. Specifically, the weighing device 10 stores the measured weight as the reference weight in the memory unit (RAM 13). Then, proceed to step S89.

Step S89: The weighing device 10 displays zero as the purchased weight on the display 15a and zero as the purchased amount on the display 15c, and then proceeds to step S90.
Step S90: The weighing device 10 changes the status display. Specifically, the weighing device 10 updates the display on the display 15e to a mark indicating a customer waiting state, i.e., does not display anything as shown at times Ta11 to Ta12 in Figure 12. Next, proceed to step S91.

Step S91: The weighing device 10 sends unit price acquisition request information (e.g., the weighing device 10's device identification information and code information indicating a request to send the unit price to the display/printing device 40) requesting the unit price of the item. Upon receiving the unit price acquisition request information, the display/printing device 40 references its storage unit (RAM 43) to identify the unit price stored in association with the device identification information, and sends response information including the identified unit price to the weighing device 10 that made the request.

Step S92: The weighing device 10 determines whether or not a unit price (response information) has been received. If a unit price has been received, the process proceeds to step S93. If a unit price has not been received, the process of step S92 is repeated.
Step S93: The weighing device 10 stores the unit price in the storage unit, and then this flowchart ends (returning to step S1 in FIG. 13A).

In addition, the weighing device 10 may send warning information (the weighing device's 10 identification information and code information indicating the abnormal state) to the store clerk terminal when processing an abnormality (when it is determined that the weighed weight exceeds the reference weight (step S3 (NO)) and processing from step S44 onwards), indicating that an abnormal state has occurred (when the weighed weight exceeds the reference weight). For example, the weighing device 10 may send the warning information to the store clerk terminal when it determines that the weighed weight exceeds the reference weight (step S3 (NO)). The weighing device 10 may send the warning information to the store clerk terminal when the weighed weight that exceeds the reference weight stabilizes (step S49 (YES)). The weighing device 10 may send the warning information to the store clerk terminal when a confirmation operation is performed when the weighed weight (weighed weight that exceeds the reference weight) stabilizes (step S62 (YES)).

During normal processing (processing from step S4 onwards when it is determined that the weighed weight does not exceed the reference weight (step S3 (YES))), if a purchase weight reset operation is performed when the weighed weight (a weighed weight that does not exceed the reference weight) is stable (step S23 (YES)), the weighing device 10 may send warning information (the weighing device 10's device identification information, code information indicating the above) to the store clerk terminal indicating that an inappropriate operation has been performed (a purchase weight reset operation when the weighed weight is stable and does not exceed the reference weight).

The weighing device 10 may accept a purchase weight reset operation while in a customer waiting state (a state in which step S1 (NO) is repeatedly executed). If a purchase weight reset operation is performed while in a customer waiting state, the weighing device 10 may execute steps S88 to S93, just as it would if a purchase weight reset operation was performed when the measured weight (a measured weight that exceeds the reference weight) stabilized (step S63 (YES)). However, because the situation remains unchanged before and after steps S88 to S90, steps S88 to S90 may be omitted and steps S91 to S93 may be executed instead. This allows the weighing device 10 to request and obtain unit price information based on a store clerk's operation while in a customer waiting state. Note that the weighing device 10 may also execute steps S91 to S93 without relying on a store clerk's operation (for example, when the power is turned on).

Note that, according to the flowcharts of Figures 13A to 13C, if a customer takes items from the item supply device 100 and then returns some of the items they took to the item supply device 100, normal processing continues (step S24 (YES) in Figure 13B → step S3 (YES) in Figure 13A → step S4, ...), but if a customer takes items from the item supply device 100 and then returns all of the items they took to the item supply device 100, processing may end (return to step S1), although this is omitted in the above flowchart.

In addition, the store clerk may perform a zero reset operation on the weighing device 10, which is an operation separate from the purchase weight reset operation. The zero reset operation is a specific, special operation (for example, pressing a button located at the back of a small hole (approximately 3 mm) in the housing with a thin rod (needle, etc.)). The zero reset operation is performed after removing the item supply device 100 from the weighing device 10. When the item supply device 100 is removed from the weighing device 10, the purchase weight becomes a large positive value that includes the weight of the item supply device 100, and the purchase amount also becomes a large positive value. If the zero reset operation is performed in this state, the weighing device 10 resets the purchase weight, purchase amount, and reference weight to zero. If the store clerk then places an item supply device 100 (for example, an item supply device 100 with new items or an item supply device 100 with replenished items) on the weighing device 10, the purchase weight becomes a large negative value that includes the weight of the item supply device 100, and the purchase amount also becomes a large negative value. This state is similar to the abnormal situation described above. Therefore, if a store clerk performs a purchase weight reset operation in this state, the purchase weight and purchase amount will be reset to zero, and the reference weight will become the original weight (the measured weight of the item supply device 100 with new items placed in it, or the measured weight of the item supply device 100 with items replenished).

The zero reset operation and purchase weight reset operation are very simple settings to perform when changing items. Furthermore, because the purchase weight reset operation obtains the unit price from the display printing device 40, there is no need to set a new unit price for the changed item when changing an item, and there is no need to worry about forgetting to set the unit price for the changed item.

In the above flowchart, it was explained that the weighing device 10 calculates the purchase weight in steps S8, S48, and S78, and that the purchase weight may also be calculated when displaying step S29 (step S89). However, the weighing device 10 may also calculate the purchase weight as appropriate in situations other than those described above.

Figures 14A to 14H are example displays on the display unit 15 of the weighing device 10. Figure 14A is an example display on the display unit 15 from times Ta0 to Ta1 in Figure 12. Note that from times Ta0 to Ta1, the weighing device 10 repeatedly executes step S1 (NO) in Figure 13A. Figure 14B is an example display on the display unit 15 from times Ta2 to Ta3. Note that from times Ta2 to Ta3, the weighing device 10 repeatedly executes steps S22 to S24 in Figure 13B. Figure 14C is an example display on the display unit 15 from times Ta3 to Ta4. Note that from times Ta3 to Ta4, the weighing device 10 repeatedly executes step S1 (NO) in Figure 13A. Figure 14D is an example display on the display unit 15 from times Ta5 to Ta6. Between times Ta5 and Ta6, the weighing device 10 repeatedly executes steps S22 to S24 in FIG. 13B. FIG. 14E shows an example of the display on the display unit 15 between times Ta7 and Ta8. Between times Ta7 and Ta8, the weighing device 10 repeatedly executes steps S22 to S24 in FIG. 13B. FIG. 14F shows an example of the display on the display unit 15 between times Ta8 and Ta9. Between times Ta8 and Ta9, the weighing device 10 repeatedly executes step S1 (NO) in FIG. 13A. FIG. 14G shows an example of the display on the display unit 15 between times Ta10 and Ta11. Between times Ta10 and Ta11, the weighing device 10 repeatedly executes steps S62 to S64 in FIG. 13C. FIG. 14H shows an example of the display on the display unit 15 between times Ta11 and Ta12. Between times Ta11 and Ta12, the weighing device 10 repeatedly executes step S1 (NO) in Figure 13A.

The above explanation has been given using the first weighing unit 4A as an example of the operation of a weighing device in which the decrease in the weighed weight is used as the purchase weight, but the same applies to the second weighing unit 4B. Note that, in the case of the second weighing unit 4B, the configuration makes it difficult to return goods (liquids) to the goods supply device 200 (see Figure 1), so there are fewer instances in which the weight measured by the weighing device 20 in the second weighing unit 4B increases from the reference weight compared to the first weighing unit 4A in which the weight measured by the weighing device 10 increases from the reference weight.

(Operation of the display/printing device 40)
The display printing device 40 receives item purchase information (device identification information, purchase weight) transmitted from the weighing devices (weighing device 10, weighing device 20, weighing device 30). When the display printing device 40 receives the above information from a weighing device, it displays an item button for the item weighed on that weighing device on the display unit 45. When a customer selects an item button and instructs the display printing device 40 to print and issue a label corresponding to that item button. In other words, after a customer has finished weighing an item on a weighing device, they move to the display printing device 40, select the item button for that item on the display printing device 40, and receive the label for that item printed and issued by the display printing device 40.

If a customer makes multiple transactions on the same weighing device, the display printing device 40 will display multiple item buttons for the same item. For example, if a customer completes a transaction on a certain weighing device 10 (after operating the operation unit 16) and realizes that the amount purchased is insufficient, and instead of moving to the display printing device 40, makes another transaction on that weighing device 10 to purchase an additional item, the display printing device 40 will display two item buttons for the same item. The same applies when making additional purchases on weighing device 20 or weighing device 30. Furthermore, since weighing device 30 has a limit to the amount of items that can be weighed in a single transaction due to issues such as the capacity of the guide 38, multiple transactions will be required to purchase a large quantity of items stored in the item supply device 300. In such cases, the display printing device 40 will also display multiple item buttons for the same item. As described above, if the display printing device 40 displays multiple item buttons for the same item, the customer must operate each item button for the same item on the display printing device 40.

Therefore, the display printing device 40 appropriately combines item buttons for the same item into a single item button.

Figures 15A to 16D are examples of displays on the display unit 45 of the display printing device 40. In the explanation of Figures 15A to 16D (and also Figure 18), it is assumed that weighing device 10-1 weighs the weight of snack A (unit price: 500 yen/100g), and weighing device 10-2 weighs the weight of snack B (unit price: 400 yen/100g).

When the display/printing device 40 receives device identification information and a purchase weight (80g) as product purchase information from the weighing device 10-1, and device identification information and a purchase weight (120g) as product purchase information from the weighing device 10-2, it displays a product selection screen such as the one shown in FIG. 15A. The product selection screen shown in FIG. 15A displays a product button B1 based on the information received from the weighing device 10-1, and a product button B2 based on the information received from the weighing device 10-2. Product button B1 displays an image of the product, the product name "Snack A," the unit price (500 yen/100g), the purchase weight (80g), and the amount (400 yen). Product button B2 displays an image of the product, the product name "Snack B," the unit price (400 yen/100g), the purchase weight (120g), and the amount (480 yen). Note that the product buttons simply display the purchase amount.

As described above, the display printing device 40 stores the item (item name), unit price, and image in association with the device identification information. Therefore, for example, the display printing device 40 identifies the item name (Snack A), unit price (500 yen/100g), and image of the item weighed by the weighing device 10-1 based on the device identification information transmitted from the weighing device 10-1. The display printing device 40 then calculates the purchase amount (400 yen) from the unit price (500 yen/100g) identified as described above and the purchase weight (80g) transmitted from the weighing device 10-1. The display printing device 40 then displays the item name (Snack A), unit price (500 yen/100g), and image identified as described above, the purchase weight (80g) transmitted from the weighing device 10-1, and the purchase amount calculated as described above on the item button B1.

The item button displays information (image, purchase amount) that differs from the information (device identification information, purchase weight) sent from the weighing device as item purchase information. In other words, the display printing device 40 displays the item button based on the item purchase information (device identification information, purchase weight) sent from the weighing device, but displays on the item button something (image, etc.) that differs from the information sent from the weighing device (device identification information, purchase weight). Furthermore, the item button does not display the device identification information sent from the weighing device as item purchase information. In other words, the display printing device 40 displays the item button based on the item purchase information (device identification information, purchase weight) sent from the weighing device, but does not display part of the information sent from the weighing device (device identification information, purchase weight) (device identification information).

The item selection screen also displays a store clerk call button B9, which can be operated to call a store clerk. When the store clerk call button B9 is operated, the display printing device 40 sends store clerk call information (device identification information for the display printing device 40 and code information indicating that a store clerk call is being made) to the store clerk terminal.

When the item button B1 is operated (selected) on the item selection screen shown in Figure 15A, the display/printing device 40 displays a label issuance instruction screen such as that shown in Figure 15B. The label issuance instruction screen shown in Figure 15B displays label information I1 related to the label to be printed and issued, and a print button B8. Label information I1 displays the same information as that displayed on the item button (item button B1) operated on the item selection screen.

When the print button B8 is operated on the label issuance instruction screen shown in Figure 15B, the display/printing device 40 prints and issues a label for the purchased weight (80g) of snack A and displays a label reception waiting screen such as that shown in Figure 15C.

When the display printing device 40 receives a label from the scene shown in Figure 15C, it displays an item selection screen such as that shown in Figure 15D. The item selection screen shown in Figure 15D displays item button B2 for snack B before selection (unselected).

Next, we will explain how item buttons for the same item are combined into a single item button. When the display printing device 40 receives new device identification information and a purchase weight (40 g) from the weighing device 10-2 while displaying the item selection screen shown in FIG. 15A, it displays item button B3 based on the newly received information from the weighing device 10-2 in addition to item button B1 and item button B2, as shown in FIG. 16A. Item button B3 displays an image of the product, the item name "Snack B," the unit price (400 yen/100 g), the purchase weight (40 g), and the price (160 yen). The display printing device 40 also displays a combination confirmation screen W1 on top of the item selection screen to confirm whether or not to combine item buttons (item button B2, item button B3) for the same item (snack B) (to confirm whether or not to combine them), and highlights the item buttons for the same item (highlighted by a bold frame in the illustrated example).

The summation confirmation screen W1 shown in FIG. 16A is a pop-up screen that is displayed in front of the item selection screen. The summation confirmation screen W1 displays a message confirming whether summation is required, a summation instruction button B10 to instruct the user to summation, and a non-summation instruction button B11 to instruct the user not to summation. If summation is instructed (if the summation instruction button B10 is operated), the summation confirmation screen W1 may also display information after summation (purchase weight, purchase amount).

In addition, in this example, the totalization confirmation screen W1 is displayed as a pop-up screen in front of the item selection screen, but similar information may also be displayed on the item selection screen. The same applies to notification screens W2 to W4.

When the non-combination instruction button B11 is operated (selected) on the combination necessity confirmation screen W1 shown in FIG. 16A, the display/printing device 40 closes the combination necessity confirmation screen W1 and removes the highlighting from the item button B2 and item button B3, as shown in FIG. 16B.

When the summation instruction button B10 is operated (selected) on the summation necessity confirmation screen W1 shown in FIG. 16A, the display printing device 40 will clear the summation necessity confirmation screen W1 as shown in FIG. 16C, and in place of the item button B2 and the item button B3, will display an item button (summed item button) B4 that combines the contents of item button B2 and the contents of item button B3. The display printing device 40 will also display a message M1 indicating that "Snack B" has been combined, as shown in FIG. 16C.

Item button B4 displays the item name "Snack B," unit price (400 yen/100g), purchase weight (160g), and price (640 yen). The purchase weight (160g) of item button B4 is the sum of the purchase weight (120g) of item button B2 and the purchase weight (40g) of item button B3. The purchase amount (640 yen) of item button B4 is the sum of the purchase amount (480 yen) of item button B2 and the purchase amount (160 yen) of item button B3. In other words, the display printing device 40 displays, on the summed item button, the purchase weight obtained by adding up the purchase weights of each item button before the summation, and the purchase amount obtained by adding up the purchase amounts of each item button before the summation. Note that the display printing device 40 may display the summed item buttons (summed item buttons) so that they are visually distinct from the unsummed item buttons. For example, the display printing device 40 may indicate that the combined item button is a combined item button, or may display the combined item button in a different display format than the non-combined item button.

When the item button B4 is operated (selected) on the item selection screen shown in FIG. 16C, the display printing device 40 displays a label issuance instruction screen such as that shown in FIG. 16D. The label issuance instruction screen shown in FIG. 16D displays label information I4 regarding the label to be printed and issued, and a print button B8. Label information I4 displays the same information as that displayed on the item button operated on the item selection screen (item button B4). In addition, the display printing device 40 displays a message M2 indicating that the total for "Snack B" has been added up, as shown in FIG. 16D.

In the above, an example was described in which when the summation instruction button B10 in Figure 16A is operated, the screen transitions (moves) to the item selection screen shown in Figure 16C, but it may also transition to the label issuance instruction screen shown in Figure 16D. In other words, after the summation instruction button B10 is operated, the display printing device 40 may temporarily display the post-summation item button on the item selection screen, or it may not temporarily display the post-summation item button on the item selection screen, and instead display the label issuance instruction screen with the post-summation item button selected.

In addition, the above example describes the display of the summation confirmation screen W1 shown in FIG. 16A when new device identification information and purchase weight are received from the weighing device 10-2 while the item selection screen shown in FIG. 15A is displayed. However, the item selection screen shown in FIG. 16C may also be displayed. In other words, when the display/printing device 40 receives device identification information and purchase weight and is displaying the item button for the received item (the item identified based on the device identification information), it may ask the customer whether or not to sum up the item buttons, or it may display the summed item button on the item selection screen without asking.

The display printing device 40 may also control the summation of item buttons based on the passage of time. For example, if the display printing device 40 receives new device identification information and purchase weight from weighing device 10-2 while displaying the item button for weighing device 10-2, and then receives new device identification information and purchase weight from weighing device 10-2, if the time between the first reception and the new reception is short (if the new reception occurs before the first hour has elapsed since the first reception), the display printing device 40 may display the post-summation item button without displaying the summation necessity confirmation screen W1; if the time between the first reception and the new reception is medium (if the new reception occurs after the first hour has elapsed since the first reception but before the second time has elapsed, which is longer than the first time), the display printing device 40 may display the summation necessity confirmation screen W1; and if the time between the first reception and the new reception is long (if the new reception occurs after the second hour has elapsed since the first reception), the display printing device 40 may display a separate item button without displaying the summation necessity confirmation screen W1. Note that control that displays the item button after summation without displaying the summation necessity confirmation screen W1 may be referred to as automatic summation display control, control that displays the summation necessity confirmation screen W1 may be referred to as summation confirmation control, and control that displays the item buttons individually without displaying the summation necessity confirmation screen W1 may be referred to as automatic individual display control.

Figures 17A and 17B are flowcharts showing an example of the operation of the display/printing device 40. Note that it is assumed that the first time is less than the second time.

(Flowchart of FIG. 17A)
Step S400: The display/printer 40 receives the device identification information and the purchase weight from the weighing device, and then proceeds to step S401.
Step S401: The display/printing device 40 identifies the item (the item related to the reception) based on the device identification information, and then proceeds to step S402.
Step S402: The display printing device 40 stores the identified item (the item related to the reception) in association with the reception time. The process then proceeds to step S403. Note that when the display printing device 40 prints and issues a label for the item related to the reception, it erases the reception time corresponding to the item related to the reception.
Step S403: The display/printing device 40 determines whether or not an item button for the same item as the received item is displayed. If it is displayed, the process proceeds to step S410. If it is not displayed, the process proceeds to step S404.
Step S404: The display/printing device 40 displays the product button for the product related to the reception, and then this flowchart ends (returning to step S400 in FIG. 17A).

Step S410: The display/printing device 40 determines whether a first time has elapsed since the display/printing device 40 received the same item as the item in question. If the first time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S420 in FIG. 17B. If the first time has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S421.

Step S411: The display printing device 40 adds the received information to the item button for the same item as the item related to the current reception. For example, if the display printing device 40 is displaying the item selection screen shown in FIG. 15A and receives new device identification information and a purchase weight (40g) from the weighing device 10-2 before the first hour has elapsed since the reception related to item button B2, it will display item button B4 instead of item button B2, as shown in FIG. 16C. In other words, because a new reception occurred before the first hour has elapsed since the initial reception, the display printing device 40 uses automatic sum display control to add the current received information to the displayed item button. This flowchart then ends (returning to step S400 in FIG. 17A).

(Flowchart of FIG. 17B)
Step S420: The display/printing device 40 determines whether a second time has elapsed since the last reception of the same item. If the second time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S431. If the second time has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S441.

Step S431: The display printing device 40 displays the item button for the item related to the reception separately from the item button for the same item as the item related to the reception. For example, when the display printing device 40 is displaying the item selection screen shown in FIG. 15A, if the display printing device 40 receives new device identification information and purchase weight (40g) from the weighing device 10-2 after the second hour has passed since the reception related to item button B2, it will display item button B4 in addition to item button B2, as shown in FIG. 16B. In other words, because a new reception occurred after the second hour has passed since the initial reception, the display printing device 40 uses automatic individual display control to display an item button for the newly received information separately from the currently displayed item button. This flowchart then ends (returning to step S400 in FIG. 17A).

Step S441: The display/printing device 40 displays the button for the item related to the reception separately from the button for the same item as the item related to the reception. The display/printing device 40 also highlights both buttons. Then, the process proceeds to step S442.
Step S442: The display/printing device 40 displays the summation necessity confirmation screen W1. For example, if the display/printing device 40 receives new device identification information and a purchase weight (40 g) from the weighing device 10-2 after the first hour has elapsed since the reception related to the item button B2 but before the second hour has elapsed while displaying the item selection screen shown in FIG. 15A, the display/printing device 40 displays the summation necessity confirmation screen W1 as shown in FIG. 16A. In other words, because the new reception occurred after the first hour has elapsed since the initial reception but before the second hour has elapsed, the display/printing device 40 displays the summation necessity confirmation screen W1 through the summation confirmation control. Next, proceed to step S443.

Step S443: The display/printer 40 determines whether or not an operation to not combine (operation of the non-combination instruction button B11) has been performed on the combination necessity confirmation screen W1. If an operation to not combine has been performed, the process proceeds to step S455. If an operation to not combine has not been performed, the process proceeds to step S444.
Step S444: The display/printing device 40 determines whether or not an operation to add up (operation of the Add Up button B10) has been performed on the Add Up confirmation screen W1. If an operation to add up has been performed, the process proceeds to step S445. If an operation to add up has not been performed, the process returns to step S443.

Step S445: The display/printer 40 erases the totalization necessity confirmation screen W1, and then proceeds to step S451.
Step S451: The display/printing device 40 displays an item button (a combined item button) that is a sum of the item button for the same item as the item related to the reception and the item button for the item related to the reception, instead of the item button for the same item as the item related to the reception and the item button for the item related to the reception. Then, this flowchart ends (returning to step S400 in FIG. 17A).

Step S455: The display/printer 40 erases the total necessity confirmation screen W1, and then proceeds to step S461.
Step S461: The display/printing device 40 cancels the highlighting of both buttons, and then this flowchart ends (returning to step S400 in FIG. 17A).

In other words, if the first time has not yet elapsed (step S410 (NO)), the display/printing device 40 adds up the currently received content to the currently displayed item button without displaying the addition confirmation screen W1, as it is highly likely that the item buttons belong to the same customer (step S411); if the second time has elapsed (step S420 (NO)), the display/printing device 40 displays the item button separately from the currently displayed item button, as it is low that the item buttons belong to the same customer (step S431); if the first time has elapsed but the second time has not yet elapsed (step S420 (YES)), it displays the addition confirmation screen W1 and adds up the item buttons based on the customer's instruction to add up (step S444 (YES)) (step S451).

Although it has been explained that it is unlikely that the item button belongs to the same customer after the second time has elapsed, there is also the possibility that the previous customer (the customer who should operate the displayed item button) has left the display printing device 40. Therefore, after the second time has elapsed (step S420 (NO)), the display printing device 40 may display an item button separately from the currently displayed item button (step S431) and may also send warning information (terminal identification information for the display printing device 40, code information indicating that the button may have been left unprocessed) to the store clerk terminal.

Figure 18 is an example of a display on the display unit 45 of the display printing device 40. The above describes an example of totalization confirmation control in which the display printing device 40 displays the totalization confirmation screen W1 based on receiving information transmitted from a weighing device. However, the display printing device 40 may also display the totalization confirmation screen W1 based on a customer operation. For example, if the display printing device 40 receives new device identification information and purchase weight (40 g) from the weighing device 10-2 while displaying the item selection screen shown in Figure 15A, it may display an item button B3 based on the newly received information from the weighing device 10-2 in addition to the item button B1 and item button B2, as shown in Figure 18, and may also display an addition button B7. Furthermore, if the addition button B7 is operated on the item selection screen shown in Figure 18, the display printing device 40 may display the totalization confirmation screen W1, as shown in Figure 16A.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 18, the display printing device 40 may highlight the item buttons to be added together (item button B2, item button B3) on the item selection screen. In other words, when displaying the addition button B7, the display printing device 40 may highlight the item buttons to be added together.

Furthermore, when the summation button B7 is operated on the item selection screen shown in FIG. 18, the display printing device 40 may display the item button after summation (item button B4) as shown in FIG. 16C, without displaying the summation necessity confirmation screen W1.

A time limit may be set for displaying the sum button B7. For example, if the display/printing device 40 determines that a first time has not elapsed since the receipt of an item identical to the item in question (step S410 (NO) in FIG. 17A), it may execute the processing of step S411 without displaying the sum button B7. If the display/printing device 40 determines that a first time has elapsed but a second time has not elapsed since the receipt of an item identical to the item in question (step S420 (NO) in FIG. 17B), it may display the sum button B7. If the display/printing device 40 determines that a second time has elapsed since the receipt of an item identical to the item in question (step S420 (YES) in FIG. 17B), it may execute the processing of step S431 without displaying the sum button B7.

The combined item button may be detachable. For example, the display printing device 40 may display a separation button (not shown) when displaying the combined item button. When the separation button is operated, the display printing device 40 erases the combined item button and displays the item buttons before addition.

(Operation of the weighing device that uses the measured weight as the purchase weight)
The weighing device 30 of the third weighing unit 4C calculates the weighed weight as the purchased weight of the items. A transaction in the third weighing unit 4C begins when the item release operation unit 303 of the item supply device 300 is operated in a customer waiting state to release items from the item supply device 300 to the weighing device 30, and ends when the item release operation unit 36 of the weighing device 30 is operated to release all items from the weighing device 30 into the container 320.

When all items in the weighing device 30 are released by operating the item release operation unit 36, the weighing device 30 transmits item purchase information to the display printing device 40. In other words, if the item release operation unit 36 is not operated (no items have been released from the weighing device 30), or if the item release operation unit 36 is operated but some items remain in the weighing device 30, the weighing device 30 does not transmit item purchase information to the display printing device 40. Furthermore, if items are released from the item supply device 300 to the weighing device 30 when some items remain in the weighing device 30 after operating the item release operation unit 36, calculation of the purchase weight becomes complicated, which may lead to misunderstandings with the customer and result in unnecessary trouble.

Therefore, the third weighing unit 4C monitors whether some or all of the items remain stored in the weighing device 30 for a predetermined period of time. Furthermore, if an item is released from the item supply device 300 to the weighing device 30 while some items remain in the weighing device 30 after operating the item release operation unit 36, the third weighing unit 4C monitors any operation that releases an item from the item supply device 300 to the weighing device 30 while some items remain in the weighing device 30 after operating the item release operation unit 36 (i.e., an operation to decrease the weighing weight (to any value other than zero) and then increase it) as an abnormal operation (unauthorized operation), as the above-mentioned problem will occur.

Figures 19A to 22 are explanatory diagrams illustrating the progression of weighing weight in the weighing device 30. In each of Figures 19A to 22, the horizontal axis represents the flow of time (time). In each of the figures, the vertical axis represents weight (weight value). In each of the figures, solid line L4 represents the weighing weight. Above solid line L4, the weight is indicated numerically as appropriate. For convenience, the diagonal portion of solid line L4 (the portion where the value increases or decreases) is shown as a straight line. Each of the figures also illustrates the status of the weighing device 30 as displayed by the display 35e.

(Weight measured at each time in FIG. 19A, etc.)
Time Tb0 to Tb1: Waiting for customers.
Time Tb1 to Tb2: As articles are discharged from the article supply device 300 to the weighing device 30, the weighed weight increases.
Time Tb2 to Tb3: After the article supply device 300 has discharged the article to the weighing device 30, the weighed weight is stable.
Time Tb3 to Tb4: As articles are discharged from the weighing device 30 to the container 320, the weighed weight decreases.
From time Tb4: The discharge of the articles from the weighing device 30 to the container 320 is completed, and the weighed weight is stable at zero.

(Weight measured at each time in FIG. 19B, etc.)
Time Tc0 to Tc1: Waiting for customers.
Time Tc1 to Tc2: As articles are discharged from the article supply device 300 to the weighing device 30, the weighed weight increases.
Time Tc2 to Tc3: After the article supply device 300 has discharged the article to the weighing device 30, the weighed weight is stable.
Time Tc3 to Tc4: As articles are discharged from the article supply device 300 to the weighing device 30, the weighed weight increases.
Time Tc4 to Tc5: After the article supply device 300 has discharged the article to the weighing device 30, the weighed weight is stable.
Time Tc5 to Tc6: As articles are discharged from the weighing device 30 to the container 320, the weighed weight decreases.
From time Tc6: The discharge of the articles from the weighing device 30 to the container 320 is completed, and the weighed weight is stable at zero.

(Weight measured at each time in Figure 20)
Time Td0 to Td1: Waiting for customers.
Time Td1 to Td2: As articles are discharged from the article supply device 300 to the weighing device 30, the weighed weight increases.
Time Td2 to Td3: After the article supply device 300 has discharged the article to the weighing device 30, the weighed weight is stable.
Time Td3: An output is issued indicating that items have been left behind. In other words, a predetermined time (times Td2 to Td3) has passed without any items being released from the weighing device 30 into the container 320, and an output is issued indicating that items (all of the weighed items) have been left behind in the weighing device 30.

(Weight measured at each time in FIG. 21A, etc.)
Time Te0 to Te1: Waiting for customers.
Time Te1 to Te2: As articles are discharged from the article supply device 300 to the weighing device 30, the weighed weight increases.
Time Te2 to Te3: After the article supply device 300 has discharged the article to the weighing device 30, the weighed weight is stable.
Time Te3 to Te4: As the articles are discharged from the weighing device 30 to the container 320, the weighed weight decreases.
Time Te4 to Te5: After the articles are discharged from the weighing device 30 to the container 320, the weighed weight is stable at a value other than zero.
Time Te5: An output is issued indicating that some items remain. In other words, a predetermined time (times Te4 to Te5) has elapsed since some of the items were released from the weighing device 30 into the container 320, and an output is issued indicating that some items (some of the weighed items) remain inside the weighing device 30.

(Weight measured at each time in FIG. 21B, etc.)
Times Te0 to Te5: Similar to times Te0 to Te5 in FIG. 21A.
Time Te5 to Te6: There are articles left behind.
Time Te6 to Te7: As the weighing device 30 releases the articles into the container 120, the weighed weight decreases.
From time Te7: The discharge of the articles from the weighing device 30 to the container 320 is completed, and the weighed weight is stable at zero.

Note that "abandoned items" in Figure 21A means that all of the purchased weight of items remain in the weighing device 30. "Left-behind items" in Figure 21B means that only a portion of the purchased weight of items remain in the weighing device 30. Both "abandoned items" and "left-behind items" have in common the fact that the items have not been completely released into the container 320.

(Weight measured at each time in Figure 22)
Time Tf0 to Tf1: Waiting for customers.
Time Tf1 to Tf2: As articles are discharged from the article supply device 300 to the weighing device 30, the weighed weight increases.
Time Tf2 to Tf3: After the article supply device 300 has discharged the article to the weighing device 30, the weighed weight is stable.
Time Tf3 to Tf4: As articles are discharged from the weighing device 30 to the container 320, the weighed weight decreases.
Time Tf4 to Tf5: After the articles are discharged from the weighing device 30 to the container 320, the weighed weight is stable at a value other than zero.
Time Tf5 to Tf6: The weighed weight increases as items are released from the item supply device 300 to the weighing device 30. At time Tf5, a message is output indicating that an abnormal operation (unauthorized operation) has occurred. In other words, items were released from the weighing device 30 to the container 320, and some items remained in the weighing device 30, and then items were supplied from the item supply device 300 to the weighing device 30, resulting in a message indicating an abnormal operation. Also, at times Tf5 to Tf6, a status indicating an abnormality (a mark such as that shown in FIG. 14G) is displayed on the display 35e.
Time Tf6 onwards: The weighed weight is stable after the article supply device 300 has discharged the articles to the weighing device 30. After time Tf6, the display 35e continues to display a status indicating an abnormality.

Figures 23A to 23F are flowcharts showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 30. When the weighing device 30 is in the waiting state for a customer, it executes the processing of the flowchart in Figure 23A. Note that when the weighing device 30 is in the waiting state for a customer, it does not display anything as the status display (display on the display 35e), as shown in Figure 19A (times Tb0 to Tb1).

(Flowchart of FIG. 23A)
Step S301: The weighing device 30 determines whether the weighed weight has changed. In other words, the weighing device 30 determines whether an article has been released from the article supply device 300 to the weighing device 30. If the weighed weight has changed, proceed to step S302.
Step S302: The weighing device 30 displays information indicating that the purchase amount is being prepared for display. Then, the process proceeds to step S303.
Step S303: The weighing device 30 changes the status display. Specifically, the weighing device 30 displays a mark such as that shown in Fig. 9A on the display 35e. Then, the process proceeds to step S304.
Step S304: The weighing device 30 displays the weighed weight as the purchase weight. Then, the process proceeds to step S305.
Step S305: The weighing device 30 determines whether the weighed weight is stable. If the weighed weight is stable, the process proceeds to step S306. If the weighed weight is not stable, the process returns to step S304.

Step S306: The weighing device 30 stores the purchase weight. Specifically, the weighing device 30 stores the measured weight as the purchase weight. Then, the process proceeds to step S307.
Step S307: The weighing device 30 calculates the purchase amount based on the unit price and the purchased weight, and displays it on the display 35c. Then, the process proceeds to step S311.

Step S311: The weighing device 30 stores the reference weight. Specifically, the weighing device 30 stores the measured weight as the reference weight. Then, the process proceeds to step S312.
Step S312: The weighing device 30 stores the weight stabilization time. Specifically, the weighing device 30 stores the current time as the weight stabilization time. Then, the process proceeds to step S313.
Step S313: The weighing device 30 changes the status display. Specifically, the weighing device 30 displays a mark such as that shown in Fig. 9B on the display 35e. Then, the process proceeds to step S314.

Step S314: The weighing device 30 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the weight stabilized. That is, the weighing device 30 compares the weight stabilization time stored in step S312 with the current time to determine whether a predetermined time (e.g., 30 seconds) has elapsed. If the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S350 in FIG. 23D. If the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S315.
Step S315: The weighing device 30 determines whether the weighed weight has changed. If the weighed weight has changed, proceed to step S316. If the weighed weight has not changed, return to step S314.

Step S316: The weighing device 30 determines whether the weighed weight is greater than the judgment weight. That is, the weighing device 30 determines whether an item has been released from the item supply device 300 to the weighing device 30, or whether an item has been released from the weighing device 30 to the container 320. If the weighed weight is greater than the judgment weight, the process returns to step S302. If the weighed weight is not greater than the judgment weight, the process proceeds to step S320 in Figure 23B. That is, if an item has been released from the item supply device 300 to the weighing device 30, the process returns to step S302. On the other hand, if an item has been released from the weighing device 30 to the container 320, the process proceeds to step S320 in Figure 23B.

(Flowchart of FIG. 23B)
Step S320: The weighing device 30 displays information indicating that the purchase weight is being prepared for display. Then, the process proceeds to step S321.
Step S321: The weighing device 30 changes the status display. Specifically, the weighing device 30 displays a mark such as that shown in Fig. 9C on the display 35e. Then, the process proceeds to step S322.

Step S322: The weighing device 30 determines whether the weighed weight is stable. If the weighed weight is stable, the process proceeds to step S323.
Step S323: The weighing device 30 determines whether the weighed weight is zero. That is, the weighing device 30 determines whether all of the items in the weighing device 30 have been released into the container 320. If the weighed weight is zero (that is, all of the items in the weighing device 30 have been released into the container 320), the process proceeds to step S330. If the weighed weight is not zero (that is, some of the items in the weighing device 30 have not been released into the container 320 and remain in the weighing device 30), the process proceeds to step S341 in FIG. 23C.

Step S330: The weighing device 30 transmits the product purchase information (device identification information of the weighing device 30, purchase weight) to the display-printing device 40. Next, the process proceeds to step S331.
Step S331: The weighing device 30 changes the status display. Specifically, the weighing device 13 displays a mark (the check mark shown at time Tb4 in FIG. 19A) on the display 35e to indicate that the item purchase information has been sent to the display-printer 40. Then, proceed to step S332.
Step S332: The weighing device 30 initializes the purchase weight. Then, the process proceeds to step S333.
Step S333: The weighing device 30 initializes the purchase amount. Then, the process proceeds to step S334.
Step S334: The weighing device 30 displays zero as the purchased weight on the display 35a and zero as the purchased amount on the display 35c, and then proceeds to step S335.

Step S335: The weighing device 30 initializes the determination weight, and then proceeds to step S336.
Step S336: The weighing device 30 clears the weight stabilization time. Then, the process proceeds to step S337.
Step S337: The weighing device 30 changes the status display. Specifically, the weighing device 30 updates the display on the display 35e to a customer waiting status mark, i.e., no display is displayed as shown at times Tb0 to Tb1 in Figure 19A. Then, this flowchart ends (returning to step S301 in Figure 23A).

(Flowchart of FIG. 23C)
Step S341: The weighing device 30 stores the weight for determination. That is, the weighing device 30 stores the weight of some of the remaining items. Then, the process proceeds to step S342.
Step S342: The weighing device 30 stores the weight stabilization time. Then, the process proceeds to step S343.
Step S343: The weighing device 30 changes the status display. Specifically, the weighing device 30 displays a mark such as that shown in Fig. 9B on the display 35e. Then, the process proceeds to step S344.

Step S344: The weighing device 30 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the weight stabilized. That is, the weighing device 30 compares the weight stabilization time stored in step S342 with the current time to determine whether a predetermined time (e.g., 15 seconds) has elapsed. If the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S360 in FIG. 23E. If the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S345.
Step S345: The weighing device 30 determines whether the weighed weight has changed. If the weighed weight has changed, proceed to step S346. If the weighed weight has not changed, return to step S344.

Step S346: The weighing device 30 determines whether the weighed weight is less than the judgment weight. That is, the weighing device 30 determines whether an item has been released from the weighing device 30 to the container 320, or whether an item has been released from the item supply device 300 to the weighing device 30. If the weighed weight is less than the judgment weight, the process returns to step S321 in FIG. 23B. If the weighed weight is not less than the judgment weight, the process proceeds to step S370 in FIG. 23F. In other words, if some items remain in the weighing device 30 and the remaining items are released to the container 320, the process returns to step S321 in FIG. 23B. On the other hand, if some items remain in the weighing device 30 and an item is released from the item supply device 300 to the weighing device 30, the process proceeds to step S370 in FIG. 23F.

(Flowchart of FIG. 23D)
Step S350: The weighing device 30 outputs a message indicating that an item has been left unattended. For example, the weighing device 30 may send warning information indicating that an item has been left unattended (the device identification information of the weighing device 30, code information indicating that an item has been left unattended) to the store clerk terminal. The weighing device 30 may send the warning information to the display/printer 40 instead of or in addition to the store clerk terminal. Next, proceed to step S351.
Step S351: The weighing device 30 determines whether or not the weighed weight has changed. If the weighed weight has changed, the process proceeds to step S316 in FIG. 23A.

In addition, in step S350, the weighing device 30 may output an audio warning from the audio output unit to the effect that an item has been left unattended, instead of or in addition to sending the above-mentioned warning information to the store clerk terminal or display/printing device 40. If the weighing weight changes (when proceeding from step S351 to step S316), the weighing device 30 may stop outputting the audio warning.

(Flowchart of FIG. 23E)
Step S360: The weighing device 30 outputs a message indicating that an item has been left behind. For example, the weighing device 30 sends warning information indicating that an item has been left behind (the device identification information of the weighing device 30, and code information indicating that an item has been left behind) to the display-printing device 40. Next, proceed to step S361.
Step S361: The weighing device 30 determines whether or not the weighed weight has changed. If the weighed weight has changed, the process proceeds to step S346 in FIG. 23C.

In addition, in step S360, the weighing device 30 may output an audio warning from the audio output unit to the effect that an item has been left behind, instead of or in addition to sending the above warning information to the display/printing device 40 or the store clerk terminal. If the weighing weight changes (when proceeding from step S361 to step S346), the weighing device 30 may stop outputting the audio warning.

(Flowchart of FIG. 23F)
Step S370: The weighing device 30 outputs a message indicating that an abnormal operation has occurred. For example, the weighing device 30 sends warning information indicating that an abnormal operation has occurred (the weighing device 30's device identification information, code information indicating that an abnormal operation has occurred) to the store clerk terminal. The weighing device 30 may send the warning information to the display-printer 40 instead of, or in addition to, the store clerk terminal. Next, proceed to step S371.

In addition, in step S370, the weighing device 30 may output an audio warning from the audio output unit indicating that an abnormal operation has occurred, instead of or in addition to sending the above-mentioned warning information to the store clerk terminal or display/printing device 40.

Step S371: The weighing device 30 displays information indicating that the purchase amount is being prepared for display. Then, the process proceeds to step S372.
Step S372: The weighing device 30 changes the status display. Specifically, the weighing device 30 displays marks such as those shown at times Tf5 to Tf6 in Figure 21 (marks such as those shown in Figure 14G) on the display 35e. Then, proceed to step S373.
Step S373: The weighing device 30 determines whether the weighed weight has stabilized. That is, the weighing device 30 determines whether the weighed weight has stabilized after the abnormal operation. If the weighed weight has stabilized, the process proceeds to step S374.

Step S374: The weighing device 30 determines whether the weighed weight has changed. In other words, the weighing device 30 determines whether the weighed weight has further changed after the weighed weight stabilized due to abnormal operation. If the weighed weight has changed, proceed to step S375.

Step S375: The weighing device 30 determines whether the weighed weight is stable. If the weighed weight is stable, the process proceeds to step S376.
Step S376: The weighing device 30 determines whether the weighed weight is zero. That is, the weighing device 30 determines whether all of the items in the weighing device 30 have been released into the container 320. If the weighed weight is zero, the process proceeds to step S380. If the weighed weight is not zero, the process returns to step S374.

Note that, in step S374, the situation in which it is determined whether the weighed weight has changed is similar to the situation in which it is determined whether the weighed weight has changed in other situations during a transaction (e.g., step S315 in FIG. 23A, step S345 in FIG. 23C, step S351 in FIG. 23D, and step S361 in FIG. 23E), where a decrease in weighed weight (release of items from the weighing device 30 to the container 320) is determined to be a change in weighed weight, or an increase in weighed weight (release of items from the item supply device 300 to the weighing device 30) is determined to be a change in weighed weight. If a store clerk who has confirmed the warning information sent in step S370 releases items from the weighing device 30 (e.g., releases items into a container prepared by the store clerk), or if a customer releases items from the weighing device 30 to the container 320 before the store clerk releases them, the weighing device 30 will determine the decrease in weighed weight as a change in weighed weight. On the other hand, if a customer releases an item from the item supply device 300 to the weighing device 30 before the store clerk releases it, the weighing device 30 will determine the increase in weighed weight as a change in weighed weight. Note that the scene in which the weighed weight increases from step S374 is a scene in which an abnormal operation has been performed again, but because this has already been processed as an abnormal operation (processing in steps S370, S372, etc.), the same processing is performed whether the weighed weight increases or decreases from step S374.

Step S380: The weighing device 30 outputs a message indicating that the abnormal operation has been dealt with. For example, the weighing device 30 sends completion information (the weighing device 30's device identification information and code information indicating that the abnormal operation has been dealt with) to the store clerk terminal indicating that the abnormal operation has been dealt with. The weighing device 30 may send the completion information to the display/printer 40 instead of or in addition to the store clerk terminal. Furthermore, if the weighing device 30 was outputting an audio warning in step S370, it stops outputting the audio warning. Next, proceed to step S332 in FIG. 23B.

For example, at times Tb1 to Tb2 in Figure 19A, times Tc1 to Tc2 or Tc3 to Tc4 in Figure 19B, times Td1 to Td2 in Figure 20, times Te1 to Te2 in Figure 21A (Figure 21B), and times Tf1 to Tf2 in Figure 22, the weighing device 30 repeatedly executes step S305 (NO) in Figure 23A. The display unit 35 in Figure 9A is an example of a display when step S305 (NO) in Figure 23A is repeatedly executed.

At times Tb2 to Tb3 in Figure 19A, times Tc2 to Tc3 or Tc4 to Tc5 in Figure 19B, times Td2 to Td3 in Figure 20, times Te2 to Te3 in Figure 21A (Figure 21B), and times Tf2 to Tf3 in Figure 22, the weighing device 30 repeatedly executes step S315 (NO) in Figure 23A. The display unit 35 in Figure 9B is an example of a display when step S315 (NO) in Figure 23A is repeatedly executed.

At times Tb3 to Tb4 in Figure 19A, times Tc5 to Tc6 in Figure 19B, times Te3 to Te4 in Figure 21A (Figure 21B), and times Tf3 to Tf4 in Figure 22, the weighing device 30 repeatedly executes step S322 (NO) in Figure 23B. The display unit 35 in Figure 9C is an example of a display when step S322 (NO) in Figure 23B is repeatedly executed.

In addition, for example, when the weighing device 30 is powered on, it may send unit price acquisition request information (e.g., device identification information for the weighing device 30 and code information indicating a request to send the unit price to the display printing device 40) requesting the unit price of the item (item contained in the paired item supply device 300) and store the unit price acquired from the display printing device 40.

Furthermore, if the weighing weight increases, stabilizes, then decreases to a value that does not become zero, and then increases from the decreased value (a value other than zero) (see FIG. 22), the weighing device 30 changes the status display to a mark like that shown in FIG. 14G (step S372). However, the status display may also be changed to a mark like that shown in FIG. 14G if the weighing weight increases, stabilizes, and then decreases to a value that does not become zero, and then increases from the decreased value for a predetermined time (see FIG. 20), or if the weighing weight increases, stabilizes, and then decreases to a value that does not become zero, and then remains at the decreased value for a predetermined time (see FIGS. 21A and 21B).

Furthermore, if the weighing weight decreases and then increases, the weighing device 30 sends warning information to the store clerk terminal indicating that an abnormal operation has occurred (step S370) and changes the status display to a mark such as that shown in FIG. 14G (step S372). The weighing device 30 may also send warning information to the store clerk terminal and change the status display to a similar mark if an amount of goods is released from the item supply device 300 that overflows the guide 38 (receiving side opening 38A). The receiving side (display/printing device 40) may be able to distinguish between warning information sent when the weighing weight decreases and then increases and warning information sent when an amount of goods is released from the item supply device 300 that overflows the guide 38. For example, in the former case, the weighing device 30 may send warning information including code information indicating that an abnormal operation has occurred, decreasing the weighing weight and then increasing it, and in the latter case, the weighing device 30 may send warning information including code information indicating that an abnormal operation has occurred, causing goods to overflow from the guide 38. The weighing device 30 may determine that an amount of goods that overflows from the guide 38 has been released from the goods supply device 300 when the weighed weight reaches the limit weight (the maximum weight at which goods do not overflow). The weighing device 30 may request the limit weight of the goods from the display printing device 40, as well as the unit price of the goods, and store the limit weight obtained from the display printing device 40.

Figures 24A to 24D are examples of displays on the display unit 45 of the display printing device 40. In the explanation of Figures 24A to 24D, it is assumed that the weighing device 30-1 is measuring the weight of nuts C (unit price: 400 yen/100g).

When the weighing device 30-1 sends product purchase information (the device identification information of the weighing device 30-1, and the purchase weight "300g") to the display printing device 40 in step S330 of FIG. 23B, the display printing device 40 displays the product selection screen shown in FIG. 24A. The product selection screen shown in FIG. 24A displays the product button B5 for nuts C.

When the weighing device 30-1 sends warning information to the display/printing device 40 in step S350 of FIG. 23D that items have been left behind (the device identification information of the weighing device 30-1, and code information indicating that items have been left behind), the display/printing device 40 displays a notification screen W2 in front of the item selection screen to notify the user that items have been left behind, as shown in FIG. 24B. The notification screen W2 notifies the user that all items remain on the weighing device, that the user should return to the weighing device to transfer the remaining items to a container, and that a label will be issued after the items have been transferred to the container.

The display/printing device 40 may display the device identification information of the target weighing device, the weight of the items remaining on the weighing device, and the price for that weight on the notification screen W2. For example, in step S350, the weighing device 30 may send warning information to the display/printing device 40, including the device identification information of the weighing device 30, code information indicating that items have been left behind, as well as the measured weight (the measured weight determined to be stable in step S305) and the purchase price (the purchase price calculated based on the unit price and the measured weight determined to be stable in step S305; i.e., the purchase price calculated in step S307). The display/printing device 40 may then display the device identification information included in the warning information as the device identification information of the target weighing device on the notification screen W2, the measured weight included in the warning information as the weight of the items remaining on the weighing device, and the purchase price included in the warning information as the price for that weight.

When the weighing device 30-1 subsequently sends item purchase information (the weighing device 30-1's device identification information and the purchased weight of "300g") to the display printing device 40 in step S330 of FIG. 23B, the display printing device 40 will erase the notification screen W2 and display the item selection screen shown in FIG. 24A.

When the weighing device 30-1 sends warning information to the display/printing device 40 in step S360 of FIG. 23E that an item has been left behind (the device identification information of the weighing device 30-1, and code information indicating that an item has been left behind), the display/printing device 40 displays a notification screen W3 in front of the item selection screen to notify the user of the remaining items, as shown in FIG. 24C. The notification screen W3 notifies the user that some items remain on the weighing device, that the user should return to the weighing device to transfer the remaining items to a container, and that a label will be issued after the items have been transferred to the container.

The display/printing device 40 may display, on the notification screen W3, the device identification information of the target weighing device, the weight of the items remaining on the weighing device, and the price for that weight. For example, in step S360, the weighing device 30 may send warning information to the display/printing device 40, including the device identification information of the weighing device 30, code information indicating that items are left behind, as well as the measured weight (the measured weight determined to be stable in step S322) and the purchase price (the purchase price calculated based on the unit price and the measured weight determined to be stable in step S322). The display/printing device 40 may then display, on the notification screen W3, the device identification information included in the warning information as the device identification information of the target weighing device, the measured weight included in the warning information as the weight of the items remaining on the weighing device, and the purchase price included in the warning information as the price for that weight.

When the weighing device 30-1 subsequently sends item purchase information (the weighing device 30-1's device identification information and the purchased weight of "300g") to the display printing device 40 in step S330 of FIG. 23B, the display printing device 40 will erase the notification screen W3 and display the item selection screen as shown in FIG. 24A.

If the weighing device 30-1 sends warning information (the weighing device 30's device identification information and code information indicating that an abnormal operation has occurred) to the display printing device 40 in step S370 of FIG. 23F, the display printing device 40 will display a notification screen W4 in front of the item selection screen to notify the user of the abnormal operation, as shown in FIG. 24D. The notification screen W4 notifies the user that the operation on the item weighing device was incorrect and that a store employee is being called.

The display/printing device 40 may also display the device identification information of the target weighing device on the notification screen W4.

As described above, the sales processing system 1 according to the embodiment can effectively handle various situations that may arise in bulk sales.

When an item is returned to the weighing device 10 (and the same applies to the second weighing unit 4B) while the weighing device 10 (and the same applies to the weighing device 20) waiting for a customer (when the weighed weight exceeds the reference weight), the first weighing unit 4A (and the same applies to the second weighing unit 4B) determines that this is an abnormal condition and does not send the item purchase information to the display printing device 40. In other words, the weighing device 10 (and the same applies to the weighing device 20) executes the process of step S26 if the weighed weight is less than the reference weight (step S3 (YES)), and does not execute the process of step S26 if the weighed weight is not less than the reference weight (step S3 (NO)).

Furthermore, in the first weighing unit 4A (and similarly in the second weighing unit 4B), an abnormal state is immediately resolved by a store clerk's operation (resetting the purchase weight). For example, this corresponds to the processing after step S63 (YES) in Figure 13C (particularly the processing in steps S88 to S90). As described above, when an abnormal state occurs, the weighing device 10 (and similarly the weighing device 20) may send warning information to the store clerk's terminal indicating that an abnormal state has occurred, in order to prompt the store clerk to perform an operation (resetting the purchase weight).

The display printing device 40 may display multiple item buttons for a certain item, and there may be situations where the label printing operation for that item must be performed multiple times. Therefore, as appropriate (by performing processing according to the passage of time), item buttons for the same item are combined into a single item button to simplify operation.

The third weighing unit 4C appropriately responds to abnormal operations (such as releasing items from the item supply device 300 to the weighing device 30 when some items remain without releasing all of the items in the weighing device 30) or when items remain in the weighing device 30 for a predetermined period of time (such as leaving all items unattended or leaving some items behind) depending on the situation. For example, if an abnormal operation occurs, the weighing device 30 notifies a store clerk and has the clerk resolve the abnormal condition. That is, if the weighing device 30 determines that an abnormal operation has occurred (step S346 (NO) in Figure 23C), it outputs a message indicating that an abnormal operation has occurred (step S370 in Figure 23F). If the clerk releases all of the items in the weighing device 30 (step S376 (YES) in Figure 23F), it executes post-processing (step S380 in Figure 23F, steps S332 to S337 in Figure 23B) to transition to a customer waiting state. Furthermore, if an abnormal operation has occurred, the weighing device 30 will not send the item purchase information to the display-printing device 40. In other words, if the weighing device 30 determines that an abnormal operation has occurred (step S346 (NO) in Figure 23C), it will not execute the process of step S330 in Figure 23B.

The above describes the embodiments, but the above embodiments are merely examples, and the specific configurations are not limited to the above embodiments, and include designs that do not deviate from the gist of the invention. For example, the following (1) to (20) may be used. Furthermore, the following (1) to (20) may be combined as appropriate.

(1) In the above embodiment, the weighing devices (weighing device 10, weighing device 20, weighing device 30) were described as transmitting device identification information and purchase weight as item purchase information to the display-printing device 40. However, the weighing devices may transmit item identification information that identifies the item to the display-printing device 40 instead of or in addition to the device identification information.

(2) This is also related to (1) above, but the display/printing device 40 may store item identification information, items (item names), unit prices, and images in association with device identification information. The weighing devices (weighing devices 10, 20, and 30) may obtain and store item identification information from the display/printing device 40, similar to the unit prices.

(3) In the above embodiment, the weighing devices (weighing device 10, weighing device 20, weighing device 30) were described as transmitting device identification information and purchase weight to the display-printing device 40 as item purchase information. However, instead of or in addition to the purchase weight, the weighing devices may transmit the purchase amount to the display-printing device 40, or the unit price to the display-printing device 40, or the purchase amount and the unit price to the display-printing device 40.

(4) In the above embodiment, the weighing device 10 displays the purchase weight as a positive value on the display 15a when the weighed weight decreases (when the weighed weight does not exceed the reference weight) (see, for example, display 15a in FIG. 14B), and displays the purchase weight as a negative value on the display 15a when the weighed weight increases (when the weighed weight exceeds the reference weight) (see, for example, display 15a in FIG. 14G). However, the display on the display 15a when the weighed weight increases is not limited to this. For example, the weighing device 10 may display information other than the purchase weight (e.g., "ERROR") on the display 15a when the weighed weight increases. The weighing device 10 may display information indicating that the display is being prepared when the weighed weight increases. The same applies to the weighing device 20. In other words, when the weighing weight increases, the weighing device 20 may display information other than the purchased weight (for example, "ERROR") on the display 25a, may display information indicating that the display is being prepared, or may hide the display on the display 25a.

If the measured weight continues to increase for a predetermined period of time, the weighing device 10 (weighing device 20) may change the display on the display 15a (display 25a) to a value indicating zero (e.g., "0"). In other words, the weighing device 10 (weighing device 20) may make the above change based on the purchase weight reset operation, or may make the above change based on the passage of time instead of or in addition to the purchase weight reset operation. Furthermore, the weighing device 10 (weighing device 20) may output a request to obtain the unit price (unit price acquisition request information) when the above change is made (either before or after the change).

(5) In the above embodiment, the weighing device 10 displays the purchase amount as a positive value on the display 15c when the weighed weight decreases (when the weighed weight does not exceed the reference weight) (see, for example, display 15c in FIG. 14B), and displays the purchase amount as a negative value on the display 15c when the weighed weight increases (when the weighed weight exceeds the reference weight) (see, for example, display 15c in FIG. 14G). However, the display on the display 15c when the weighed weight increases is not limited to this. For example, the weighing device 10 may display information other than the purchase weight (e.g., "ERROR") on the display 15c when the weighed weight increases. The weighing device 10 may display information indicating that the display is being prepared when the weighed weight increases. The same applies to the weighing device 20. In other words, if the weighing weight increases, the weighing device 20 may display information other than the purchase amount (for example, "ERROR") on the display 25c, may display information indicating that the display is being prepared, or may hide the display on the display 25c.

If the measured weight continues to increase for a predetermined period of time, the weighing device 10 (weighing device 20) may change the display on the display 15c (display 25c) to a value indicating zero (e.g., "0"). In other words, the weighing device 10 (weighing device 20) may make the above change based on the purchase weight reset operation, or may make the above change based on the passage of time instead of or in addition to the purchase weight reset operation. Furthermore, the weighing device 10 (weighing device 20) may output a request to obtain the unit price (unit price acquisition request information) when making the above change (either before or after the change).

(6) This is also related to (4) and (5) above. When the guide 38 or the like is removed from the main body 30A, the weighing device 30 may display information other than weight (e.g., "ERROR") on the display 35a, may display information that the display is being prepared, or may hide the display on the display 35a. Furthermore, when the guide 38 or the like is removed from the main body 30A, the weighing device 30 may display information other than the amount (e.g., "ERROR") on the display 35c, may display information that the display is being prepared, or may hide the display on the display 35c. Note that, because the weighing weight of the weighing device 30 is zero when no item is contained in the guide 38, the weighing weight becomes a negative value when the guide 38 or the like is removed from the main body 30A.

(7) In the above embodiment, the weighing device 10 does not perform abnormal operation and does not process the items even if all or part of the items taken from the item supply device 100 are returned to the item supply device 100 after the items have been taken from the item supply device 100. However, the weighing device 10 may perform abnormal operation and process the items. For example, the weighing device 10 may store a weight similar to the determination weight stored in the weighing device 30, and determine whether all or part of the items taken from the item supply device 100 have been returned to the item supply device 100 after the items have been taken from the item supply device 100. Depending on the characteristics of the items, the weighing device 100 may prohibit the return of the taken items. The same applies to the weighing device 20.

(8) In the above embodiment, the weighing device 30 stores the current time after the weighed weight has stabilized as the weight stabilization time. However, instead of storing the current time after the weighed weight has stabilized as the weight stabilization time, the weighing device 30 may store the current time at which the weighed weight began to fluctuate as the weight fluctuation time. In other words, the weighing device 30 may determine whether an item has been left behind based on the elapsed time since the item release operation unit 303 of the item supply device 300 was operated and the weighed weight fluctuated (increased) and then stabilized (weight stabilization time). Furthermore, the weighing device 30 may determine whether an item has been left behind based on the elapsed time since the item release operation unit 36 of the weighing device 30 was operated and the weighed weight fluctuated (decreased) and then stabilized (weight stabilization time).

(9) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the display printing device 40 controls the summation of the item buttons by comparing the elapsed time from the time of reception of the information related to the displayed item button with two reference times (first time, second time). However, the display printing device 40 may also control the summation of the item buttons by comparing the elapsed time with one reference time or three or more reference times. For example, the display printing device 40 may display the summation item button before one reference time has elapsed, and display the item button separately after the reference time has elapsed (in this example, the summation necessity confirmation screen W1 is not displayed whether the reference time has elapsed or not).

(10) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the display printing device 40 controls the sum of the item buttons by comparing the time elapsed since the time information related to the currently displayed item button was received with two reference times (first time, second time). However, the display printing device 40 may also control the sum of the item buttons by comparing the time elapsed since the display start time of the currently displayed item button with one or more reference times.

(11) In the above embodiment, the display printing device 40 was described as printing and issuing labels. However, as also related to (17) below, information similar to that printed on the label (product name, purchase weight, purchase amount, etc.) may also be output to electronic media (such as an IC card) or electronic devices (such as a smartphone or wearable device).

(12) The display/printing device 40 may have a payment function (such as credit card payment). After payment, it may print and issue a receipt containing information similar to the information printed on the label. This receipt may also be an electronic receipt. In other words, the display/printing device 40 may output information similar to the information printed on the label as part of the electronic receipt information.

(13) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the sales processing system 1 includes a display/printing device 40 that has a display function (display unit 45) for displaying item buttons and a printing function (printing unit 48) for printing and issuing labels. However, instead of or in addition to the display/printing device 40, the sales processing system 1 may also include a display device (referred to as a display device 80; for example, a display device, a personal computer, or a tablet terminal) that has a display function but no printing function. The display device 80 controls the summation of item buttons, similar to the display/printing device 40. The display device 80 transmits information to another device (such as a printer), and the other device prints and issues labels based on the information received from the display device 80.

(14) In the above embodiment, the weighing device 10 executes abnormality processing (processing from step S44 onward) when it determines that the change in the weighed weight from the customer waiting state exceeds the reference weight, i.e., when it determines that the weighed weight has increased from the customer waiting state (step S3 (NO) in FIG. 13A). However, in the first weighing unit 4A, a customer may stir or dig the items with a shovel when transferring them from the item supply device 100 to the container 120. In such cases, the weight, vibration, pressure, etc. of the shovel may cause the weighed weight to increase from the customer waiting state. In other words, in addition to cases where the weighed weight increases due to returning items to the item supply device 100 from the customer waiting state, the weighing device 10 determines that the weighed weight has exceeded the reference weight and executes abnormality processing even in cases where the weighed weight increases due to the handling of the shovel, etc. In this regard, the weighing device 10 may operate as follows:

(a) In the flowchart shown in FIG. 13A, the weighing device 10 compares the weighed weight with the reference weight before determining whether the weighed weight has stabilized. However, the weighing device 10 may also compare the weighed weight with the reference weight after determining that the weighed weight has stabilized. For example, the weighing device 10 may compare the weighed weight (stable weighed weight) with the reference weight immediately after determining that the weighed weight has stabilized, or may compare the weighed weight (stable weighed weight) with the reference weight after a predetermined time (e.g., 3 seconds) has elapsed since determining that the weighed weight has stabilized.

(b) In the flowchart shown in FIG. 13A, the weighing device 10 executes abnormality processing when the weighed weight at a certain timing exceeds the reference weight. However, abnormality processing may also be executed if the weighed weight exceeds the reference weight for a predetermined time (e.g., 3 seconds). For example, the weighing device 10 may execute abnormality processing when the weighed weight (weighed weight before stabilization, weighed weight after stabilization) continues to exceed the reference weight for a predetermined time after determining that the weighed weight has changed (when the weighed weight exceeds the reference weight for a predetermined time), or when the weighed weight (weighed weight after stabilization) continues to exceed the reference weight for a predetermined time after determining that the weighed weight has stabilized (when the weighed weight is stable and exceeds the reference weight for a predetermined time).

In the cases of (a) and (b) above, it is unclear whether to execute normal processing or abnormal processing before the specified time has elapsed. Therefore, naturally, the weighing device 10 will not send the item purchase information (step S26 in FIG. 13B) or update the reference weight (step S28 in FIG. 13B, step S88 in FIG. 13C) before the specified time has elapsed. For example, the weighing device 10 may ignore the confirmation operation or the purchase weight reset operation before the specified time has elapsed. This makes it possible to prevent the transmission of an inaccurate purchase weight or the update of an inaccurate reference weight due to a temporary increase in the measured weight that may occur, for example, when digging up an item with a shovel.

The above describes the first weighing unit 4A, but the same applies to the second weighing unit 4B. In the case of the second weighing unit 4B, it is difficult for a customer to come into contact with the items (liquid) inside the item supply device 200. However, if a customer does come into contact with an item inside the item supply device 200, the weight measured by the weighing device 20 may increase, possibly exceeding the reference weight.

(15) In the above embodiment, the weighing device 30 outputs a message indicating that items have been left behind (step S314 (YES) in FIG. 23A) when a predetermined time has passed with all items remaining (step S314 in FIG. 23A), but the weighing device 30 does not have to output a message indicating that items have been left behind no matter how much time has passed when all items remain.

Even if the weighing device 30 does not output a signal indicating that items are left behind no matter how much time passes, if a predetermined time has passed while some items remain (step S344 (YES) in FIG. 23C), the weighing device 30 may output a signal indicating that some items are left behind (step S360 in FIG. 23D). In other words, if the weighing weight increases from the customer waiting state (items are released from the item supply device 300 to the weighing device 30 based on operation of the item release operation unit 303) and thereafter there is no increase or decrease in the weighing weight (no operation of the item release operation unit 303 or the item release operation unit 36), the weighing device 30 may not output anything to the display printing device 40 no matter how much time passes; or if the weighing weight increases from the customer waiting state and thereafter decreases to a value other than zero (some items are released from the weighing device 30 to the container 320 based on operation of the item release operation unit 36) and thereafter there is no increase or decrease in the weighing weight after a predetermined time has passed, the weighing device 30 may output a signal indicating that some items are left behind. In other words, the display printing device 40 displays information about items left behind (for example, the notification screen W3 in FIG. 24C), but does not necessarily need to display information about items being left behind (for example, the notification screen W2 in FIG. 24B).

Even if the weighing device 30 does not output a message indicating that items are left behind no matter how much time passes while all items remain, when a predetermined time has passed while all items remain, the weighing device 30 may display information indicating an error (e.g., "ERROR") on the display unit 35 (one or more of display 35a, display 35b, display 35c, and display 35e). When a predetermined time has passed while some items remain, the weighing device 30 may display information urging the user to operate the item release operation unit 36 again (e.g., "PUSH AGAIN") on the display unit 35 (one or more of display 35a, display 35b, display 35c, and display 35e).

When a predetermined time has passed with all items remaining and the display unit is displaying information indicating an error ("ERROR"), the weighing device 30 may erase the information indicating an error ("ERROR") displayed on the display unit 35 if the weighed weight decreases or increases. For example, if the weighed weight decreases, the weighing device 30 may display information such as that shown in FIG. 9C on the display unit 35 instead of the information indicating an error, and if the weighed weight increases, the weighing device 30 may display information such as that shown in FIG. 9A on the display unit 35 instead of the information indicating an error. Alternatively, when a predetermined time has passed with all items remaining and the display unit is displaying information indicating an error ("ERROR"), if the weighed weight increases, the weighing device 30 may maintain the display without erasing the information indicating an error. Similarly, if the weighed weight decreases, the weighing device 30 may maintain the display without erasing the information indicating an error.

When a predetermined time has passed with some items remaining and the display unit 35 is displaying information ("PUSH AGAIN") urging the user to operate the item release operation unit 36 again, if the weighed weight decreases or increases, the weighing device 30 may erase the information ("PUSH AGAIN") displayed on the display unit 35 urging the user to operate the item release operation unit 36 again. For example, if the weighed weight decreases, the weighing device 30 may display information such as that shown in FIG. 9C instead of the information urging the user to operate the item release operation unit 36 again. If the weighed weight increases, the weighing device 30 may display information ("ERROR") indicating an error instead of the information urging the user to operate the item release operation unit 36 again. Furthermore, when a predetermined time has elapsed with some items remaining and the display unit 35 is displaying information ("PUSH AGAIN") urging the user to operate the item release operation unit 36 again, the weighing device 30 may maintain the display of the information ("PUSH AGAIN") urging the user to operate the item release operation unit 36 again without erasing it until the weighed weight becomes zero, even if the weighed weight decreases.

(16) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the sales processing system 1 includes a weighing device 10 with a display function (display unit 15). However, instead of the weighing device 10, the sales processing system 1 may include a weighing device without a display function (referred to as weighing device 50) and a display device with a display unit 15 (referred to as display device 51). The display device 51 acquires information (such as the weighed weight value) from the weighing device 50 and controls the display of the display unit 15, similar to the weighing device 10. The sales processing system 1 may also include a weighing device (referred to as weighing device 52) with a display (e.g., display unit 15d that displays the weighed weight) and a display device (referred to as display device 53) with a display (e.g., display unit 15a, display unit 15b, display unit 15c, display unit 15e). The display device 53 acquires information (such as the weighed weight value) from the weighing device 52 and controls the display of its own display, similar to the weighing device 10. In other words, the weighing device of the first weighing unit 4A does not need to be equipped with all of the displays (displays 15a to 15e). The same applies to the weighing device of the second weighing unit 4B and the weighing device of the third weighing unit 4C.

(17) The weighing devices (weighing device 10, weighing device 20, weighing device 30) may be equipped with a function (reader/writer (R/W)) to read and write RFID (radio frequency identifier) tags (e.g., IC (integrated circuit) tags). For example, the weighing device 10 may have the R/W near the operation unit 16 or the display unit 15. The weighing device 10 may read, for example, a customer ID (user identifier) or store clerk ID stored on an electronic medium (e.g., an IC card) or electronic device (e.g., a smartphone or wearable device) incorporating an RFID tag. Instead of or in addition to operating the operation unit 16, the weighing device 10 may output to the display/printer 40 the identification information (device identification information or item identification information) stored in the weighing device 10, the calculated purchase weight, and information read from the electronic medium, etc. This allows the display/printer 40 to obtain information about the operator of the weighing device 10 (whether the operator is a customer or a store clerk, and information identifying each individual operator). By linking with a customer management system (e.g., a points system), it is possible to add discounts or points to each operator (customer). Note that the weighing device 10 may perform a read using the R/W before the operation unit 16 is performed, and output the above information in response to the operation of the operation unit 16. Alternatively, the weighing device 10 may not require operation of the operation unit 16, and output the above information in response to the information read by the R/W after the weighed weight has stabilized. In this case, only the reader (the R in the R/W) may be used, rather than a reader/writer.

The display/printing device 40 and POS terminal may also be equipped with a reader/writer (R/W). Related to (11) above, the weighing device 10 may output the identification information stored in the weighing device 10 and the calculated purchase weight to electronic media, electronic equipment, etc. By reading electronic media, the display/printing device 40 and POS terminal can obtain information about the operator of the weighing device 10 (whether the operator is a customer or store clerk, and information identifying each individual operator) before printing or issuing a label or before settlement.

(18) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which information (warning information) was sent directly from the weighing device to the store clerk terminal when an item reaches the warning weight, when an abnormal operation is performed, when an item is left unattended, or when an item is left behind. However, information may also be sent to the store clerk terminal via (from) a display/printing device.

(19) A lamp (e.g., an LED) may be provided on the sales unit 2 to alert store staff. For example, the lamp may be illuminated when an item reaches a warning weight, when an abnormal operation is performed, when an item is left unattended, or when an item is left behind. The lamp's illumination mode may be different depending on the situation. The lamp's illumination may be controlled by the weighing device or the display printing device. One lamp may be provided for the entire shelf 3, one lamp may be provided for each unit (each of the first weighing unit 4A, second weighing unit 4B, and third weighing unit 4C), or one lamp may be provided for each weighing device (item supply device).

(20) Some or all of the functions (input/output, storage, processing (including judgment)) of each device (weighing devices 10, 20, 30, display/printing device 40, display device 80) may be realized by a device other than the device described as the entity that executes the function. For example, weighing device 10 (weighing device 20) may include a weighing unit, an operation unit, and a communication unit, and may transmit weighing information and operation information to a cloud server, and the cloud server may control the operation of weighing device 10 (weighing device 20) based on the information transmitted from weighing device 10 (weighing device 20) (i.e., control information for controlling the operation of weighing device 10 (weighing device 20) may be transmitted to weighing device 10 (weighing device 20)). Furthermore, weighing device 30 may include a weighing unit and a communication unit, transmit weighing information to a cloud server, and the cloud server may control the operation of weighing device 30 based on the information transmitted from weighing device 30. Instead of a cloud server, the display/printing device 40 or the display device 80 may control the operation of the weighing devices (weighing devices 10, 20, 30). The display/printing device 40 may include a display unit, a communication unit, a printing unit, and a communication unit, and may transmit information received from the weighing devices and operation information for the display unit to the cloud server, and the cloud server may control the operation of the display/printing device 40 based on the information transmitted from the display/printing device 40. The display/printing device 40 may display a screen generated by the cloud server using a browsing function. The same applies to the display device 80.

The following is a summary of the embodiments.
[Background technology]
For example, a system for selling products by weighing them is known (see, for example, Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 6-50740).

[Problem to be solved by the invention]
However, conventional systems such as those shown in Patent Document 1 do not adequately address the various situations expected in metered sales, and there is room for improvement. The present invention has been made in light of these circumstances, and its purpose is to provide technology that can suitably address the various situations expected in metered sales.

[Means for solving the problems]
(A1) A weighing device (e.g., weighing device 10, weighing device 20) comprising a weighing means (e.g., weighing unit 14, weighing unit 24), a first display area (e.g., display 15d, display 25d) that displays the weight measured by the weighing means, a second display area (e.g., display 15a, display 25a) that displays the decrease in the measured weight as a purchase weight, a third display area (e.g., display 15b, display 25b) that displays a unit price, and a fourth display area (e.g., display 15c, display 25c) that displays a purchase amount based on the unit price and the purchase weight, wherein when the measured weight decreases (when the value in the first display area decreases), the fourth display area (e.g., display 15c, display 25c) a display control means for displaying the purchase amount in a fourth display area, and when the weighing weight increases (when the value in the first display area increases), displaying information other than the purchase amount (e.g., "ERRER") in the fourth display area or hiding the display in the fourth display area; and a change means (e.g., step S89 in Figure 13C) for changing the display in the fourth display area to a display indicating zero when the display control means is displaying information other than the purchase amount (e.g., "ERRER") in the fourth display area or when the display in the fourth display area is hidden.
The configuration of A1 allows a weighing device (weighing device 10, weighing device 20) that uses the reduced amount of the weighed weight as the purchased weight (sales weight) of the item to suit various possible situations (conditions, situations). For example, when the fourth display area is displaying information other than the purchase amount or when the fourth display area is not displaying, the display in the fourth display area can be changed to indicate zero.

(A2) The weighing device described in A1 is characterized in that it is provided with an output means (e.g., communication unit 17, communication unit 27) that outputs (e.g., step S91 of Figure 13C) a request to obtain the unit price to be displayed in the third display area (e.g., unit price acquisition request information) when the change means changes the display in the fourth display area to a display meaning zero.
According to the configuration of A2, when the change means changes the display in the fourth display area, the latest unit price can be obtained.

(A3) The weighing device described in A1 or A2, characterized in that the change means changes the display in the fourth display area to a display indicating zero if the measured weight continues to increase for a predetermined period of time.
According to the configuration of A3, the display can be suitably changed to indicate zero as time passes.

(A4) A display device having a first display area that displays the weighed weight, a second display area that displays the decrease in the weighed weight as the purchase weight, a third display area that displays the unit price, and a fourth display area that displays the purchase amount based on the unit price and the purchase weight, characterized in that it is equipped with a display control means that, when the weighed weight decreases, displays the purchase amount in the fourth display area, and, when the weighed weight increases, displays information other than the purchase amount as the display in the fourth display area or hides the display in the fourth display area, and a change means that, when the display control means is displaying information other than the purchase amount as the display in the fourth display area or when the display in the fourth display area is hidden, changes the display in the fourth display area to a display meaning zero (e.g., display device 51, display device 53).
The configuration of A4 can achieve the same effect as A1.

(B1) A sales system (e.g., sales processing system 1) including a weighing device (e.g., weighing device 10, weighing device 20, weighing device 30) and a display device (e.g., display/printing device 40, display device 80), wherein the weighing device includes a weighing means (e.g., weighing unit 14, weighing unit 24, weighing unit 34) that weighs the weight of an item, and an output means (e.g., communication unit 17, communication unit 27, communication unit 37) that outputs item purchase information including a purchase weight value based on the weight value measured by the weighing means, and the display device includes a receiving means (e.g., communication unit 47) that receives the item purchase information, and a display device (e.g., display/printing device 40, display device 80) that outputs the item purchase information including a purchase weight value based on the weight value measured by the weighing means. and a display means (e.g., display unit 45) for displaying an item selection area (e.g., an item button) including an item name and a purchase weight value based on the item purchase information received by the receiving means, wherein when the item purchase information for the same item as the item currently displaying the item selection area is received by the receiving means, the display means is capable of displaying one item selection area (e.g., item button B4 shown in FIG. 16C) including a total purchase weight value obtained by adding together the purchase weight value of the item included in the item selection area currently being displayed and the purchase weight value of the item included in the item purchase information.
The configuration of B1 allows the display/printing device (display/printing device 40, display device 80) that communicates with the weighing device to respond appropriately to various anticipated situations (conditions). For example, in the above-mentioned display/printing device, multiple item buttons (item selection areas) for the same item may be displayed, making operation cumbersome. The configuration of B1 simplifies the display/printing device by displaying all of the items together in a single item button.

(B2) The sales system described in B1 is characterized in that the display means is capable of displaying an image (for example, the addition confirmation screen W1 shown in Figure 16A) to confirm whether or not the total is required when the item purchase information for the same item as the item currently displaying the item selection area is received by the receiving means.
According to the configuration of B2, it is possible to display all the items together in one item button depending on the confirmation result.

(B3) The sales system described in B1 or B2 is characterized in that, when the receiving means receives the item purchase information for the same item as the item currently displaying the item selection area, if the elapsed time from the time when the previous item purchase information for the item corresponding to the currently displayed item selection area was received or from the time when the currently displayed item selection area was displayed to the time when the current item purchase information for the item is received is less than a predetermined time (one reference time), the display means displays one item selection area including the total purchase weight value, and if the predetermined time is equal to or greater than the predetermined time, the display means displays the item selection area based on the item purchase information separately from the currently displayed item selection area.
According to the configuration of B3, it is possible to display all of the items together on one item button based on the elapsed time.

(B4) An information terminal (e.g., a display/printing device 40, a display device 80) capable of communicating with a weighing device that weighs items, comprising: a receiving means for receiving item purchase information including a weight value output from the weighing device; and a display means for displaying an item selection area including an item name and a purchase weight value based on the item purchase information received by the receiving means, wherein when the receiving means receives item purchase information for the same item as the item currently displaying the item selection area, the display means is capable of displaying one item selection area including a combined purchase weight value obtained by adding together the purchase weight value of the item included in the currently displayed item selection area and the purchase weight value of the item included in the item purchase information.
The configuration of B4 can provide the same effect as that of B1.

(C1) A weighing device (e.g., weighing unit 34) that weighs items, and output means (e.g., communication unit 37) that outputs item purchase information including a purchase weight value based on the weight value measured by the weighing means, wherein the output means outputs item purchase information including the positive value as the purchase weight value when the weight value measured by the weighing means increases from zero to a positive value and then decreases from the positive value to zero (e.g., step S330 in Figures 19A, 19B, and 23B), and the output means outputs information indicating that all weighed items remain (e.g., that items have been left behind) when the weight value increases from zero and then becomes a value other than zero without ever decreasing, and the weight value does not change from the non-zero value for a predetermined time (e.g., step S350 in Figures 20 and 23D).
The configuration of C1 allows the weighing device (weighing device 30) to respond appropriately to various anticipated situations (conditions, situations). For example, if the weighed value remains unchanged from a value other than zero for a predetermined period of time, information indicating that all weighed items remain can be output. Furthermore, information indicating that all weighed items remain can be output without providing a sensor or the like for detecting the discharge operation of items in the item supply device or the weighing device.

(C2) A weighing device (e.g., weighing unit 34) that weighs an item, and output means (e.g., communication unit 37) that outputs item purchase information including a purchase weight value based on the weight value measured by the weighing means, wherein the output means outputs the item purchase information including the positive value as the purchase weight value when the weight value measured by the weighing means increases from zero to a positive value and then decreases from the positive value to zero (e.g., step S330 in Figures 19A, 19B, and 23B), and the output means outputs information indicating that some of the weighed items remain (e.g., that some items are left behind) when the weight value increases from zero and then decreases to a value other than zero and does not change from the non-zero value for a predetermined time (e.g., step S360 in Figures 21A, 21B, and 23E).
The configuration of C2 allows the weighing device (weighing device 30) to respond appropriately to various anticipated situations (conditions, situations). For example, if the weight value increases from zero and then decreases to a value other than zero and remains unchanged from a value other than zero for a predetermined period of time, information indicating that some weighed items remain can be output. Furthermore, information indicating that some weighed items remain can be output without providing a sensor or the like in the item supply device or the weighing device to detect the item discharge operation.

(C3) A weighing device (e.g., weighing unit 34) that weighs an item, and an output means (e.g., communication unit 37) that outputs item purchase information including a purchase weight value based on the weighed value by the weighing means, wherein the output means outputs item purchase information including the positive value as the purchase weight value when the weighed value by the weighing means increases from zero to a positive value and then decreases from the positive value to zero (e.g., step S330 in Figures 19A, 19B, and 23B), and the output means outputs abnormality information indicating that an abnormal operation has occurred when the weighed value increases from zero and then decreases, but before the weighed value reaches zero (e.g., step S370 in Figures 22 and 23F).
The configuration of C3 allows the weighing device (weighing device 30) to respond appropriately to various anticipated situations (conditions, situations). For example, if the weighing value increases from zero and then decreases, and then increases before reaching zero, abnormality information indicating that an abnormal operation has occurred can be output. Furthermore, abnormality information indicating that an abnormal operation has occurred can be output without providing a sensor or the like to detect the discharge operation of an item in the item supply device or the weighing device.

(C4) A weighing device (e.g., weighing unit 34) that weighs an item, and an output unit (e.g., communication unit 37) that outputs item purchase information including a purchase weight value based on the weighed value by the weighing unit, wherein the output unit outputs item purchase information including the positive value as the purchase weight value based on the weighed value becoming zero when the weighed value by the weighing unit increases from zero to a positive value and then decreases from the positive value to zero, and when the weighed value never decreases from zero to the positive value and never increases from the positive value to zero (e.g., step S330 in Figures 19A, 19B, and 23B).
The configuration of C4 allows the weighing device (weighing device 30) to respond appropriately to various anticipated situations (conditions, situations). For example, in the above-mentioned weighing device, if the normal operation is performed, the weighed weight increases from zero, decreases once, and then does not increase again until it reaches zero. However, if the abnormal operation is performed, the weighed weight may decrease once and then increase again until it reaches zero. The configuration of C4 makes it possible to output item purchase information based on normal operation. Furthermore, it is possible to determine whether the operation is normal and output item purchase information without providing a sensor or the like to detect the item discharge operation in the item supply device or the weighing device.

(C5) A sales system (e.g., sales processing system 1) including a weighing device (e.g., weighing device 30) and a display device (e.g., display/printing device 40, display device 80), wherein the weighing device includes weighing means (e.g., weighing unit 34) for weighing the weight of an item and output means (e.g., communication unit 37) for outputting item purchase information including a purchase weight value based on the weighed value by the weighing means, and the display device includes receiving means (e.g., communication unit 47) and display means (e.g., display unit 45), and the output means outputs abnormality information indicating that an abnormal operation has occurred (warning information indicating that an abnormal operation has occurred) instead of the item purchase information when the weighed value increases from zero and then decreases, or when the weighed value increases before reaching zero,
The display means displays an item selection area (e.g., item button B5 shown in FIG. 24A) including an item name and a purchase weight value based on the item purchase information when the receiving means receives the item purchase information, and displays information indicating that an abnormal operation has occurred (e.g., notification screen W4 shown in FIG. 24D) based on the abnormality information when the receiving means receives the abnormality information.
The configuration of C5 can provide the same effect as C4.

The programs for implementing the devices described above (weighing devices 10, 20, 30, 50, 52, item supply devices 100, 200, 300, display/printing device 40, display devices 51, 53, 80, etc.) 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 OS and peripheral devices. The term "computer-readable recording medium" also refers to portable media such as flexible disks, optical magnetic disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, as well as storage devices such as hard disks built into a computer system. The term "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 serves as a server or client when the program is transmitted over 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 device 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 that has the function of transmitting information, such as a network (communications network) such as the Internet or a communication line (communications line) such as a telephone line. The program may also be one that realizes part of the above-mentioned functions. Furthermore, it may be a so-called differential file (differential program) that can realize the above-mentioned functions in combination with a program already recorded in a computer system.

1... Sales processing system 2... Sales unit 3... Shelf 4A... First weighing unit 4B... Second weighing unit 4C... Third weighing unit 100, 200, 300... Item supply devices 10, 20, 30, 50, 52... Weighing device 40... Display printing devices 51, 53, 80... Display device

Claims (4)

a weighing means for measuring the weight of the article;
an output means for outputting product purchase information including a purchase weight value based on the measurement value obtained by the weighing means;
The output means
outputting product purchase information including the positive value as the purchase weight value when the weight value measured by the weighing means increases from zero to a positive value and then decreases from the positive value to zero;
The output means
A weighing device characterized in that if the weighed value increases from zero and then becomes a value other than zero without ever decreasing, and if the weighed value does not change from the non-zero value for a predetermined time, it outputs information that all of the weighed items remain. a weighing means for measuring the weight of the article;
an output means for outputting product purchase information including a purchase weight value based on the measurement value obtained by the weighing means;
The output means
outputting product purchase information including the positive value as the purchase weight value when the weight value measured by the weighing means increases from zero to a positive value and then decreases from the positive value to zero;
The output means
A weighing device characterized in that if the weighing value increases from zero and then decreases to a value other than zero, and if the weighing value does not change from the non-zero value for a predetermined period of time, it outputs information that some of the weighed items remain. a weighing means for measuring the weight of the article;
an output means for outputting product purchase information including a purchase weight value based on the measurement value obtained by the weighing means;
The output means
outputting product purchase information including the positive value as the purchase weight value when the weight value measured by the weighing means increases from zero to a positive value and then decreases from the positive value to zero;
The output means
A weighing device characterized in that if the weighing value increases from zero and then decreases, and if the weighing value increases before reaching zero, it outputs abnormal information indicating that an abnormal operation has occurred. A vending system including a weighing device and a display device,
The metering device is
a weighing means for measuring the weight of the article;
an output means for outputting product purchase information including a purchase weight value based on the measurement value obtained by the weighing means;
The display device includes:
receiving means;
a display means;
The output means
outputting product purchase information including the positive value as the purchase weight value when the weight value measured by the weighing means increases from zero to a positive value and then decreases from the positive value to zero;
The output means
If the measurement value increases from zero and then decreases, and if the measurement value increases before becoming zero, outputting abnormality information indicating that an abnormal operation has occurred;
The display means
When the receiving means receives the product purchase information, a product selection area including a product name and a purchase weight value is displayed based on the product purchase information;
When the receiving means receives the abnormality information, the sales system displays information indicating that an abnormal operation has occurred based on the abnormality information.