JP7820864B2 - Payment system, payment system repeater - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a settlement system that collects and receives payment and includes a settlement machine that processes currency deposits, a settlement system repeater, and a settlement machine for the settlement system.

POS systems with checkout machines used in retail stores and other places are known. POS systems with checkout machines store products in advance, associating them with their unit prices. By registering the products a customer wishes to purchase, the POS system obtains the corresponding unit prices and calculates the total amount the customer will pay. POS systems with checkout machines are equipped with a display device for store clerks and a display device for customers. While the clerk is registering the products, the clerk can check the registered status of the products on the clerk display device, and the customer can check the registered status of the products on the customer display device. Both the clerk and the customer can see the trends in product names, unit prices, and total amounts. The checkout machine calculates the amount of change based on the total amount obtained from the POS system and the amount deposited, and dispenses the change. Self-service POS systems are also known, in which customers pay for their purchases themselves and leave the store.

POS systems that separate the product registration function from the payment machine function are also known. For example, in Patent No. 5790145, a store clerk registers a product using the product registration function of the POS system, issues a ticket with the coded price recorded on it, and hands it to the customer. The customer then scans the ticket into the payment machine and pays the fee. Once the customer has paid, they can pass through a gate to exit the store. Using such a system, the product registration function and the payment machine can be located in separate locations, and product theft can be prevented.

Patent No. 5790145

However, with conventional technology, POS systems must generate dedicated display data to display on the customer's display device to allow customers to check the product registration status. The POS system must also convert the total amount and details of the purchased items into dedicated data and send it to the payment machine using a dedicated protocol. Furthermore, if the product registration function and payment machine are to be used separately, the total amount of the purchased items must be coded and printed on a ticket. The payment machine requires a scanner to read the coded total amount, a decoding process, and then the decoded total amount must be converted into a different data format to generate display data. Conventional technology requires the installation of processes and devices to generate or convert the total amount of the purchased items according to each function and device. Another problem is that tickets with the coded amount recorded on them cannot be read properly due to dirt or bending. It is also difficult to retrofit a payment machine that allows customers to pay in cash to a POS system.

The settlement system of the present invention is a settlement system comprising a POS system that registers products purchased by customers and displays sales amounts, and a settlement machine that has a coin deposit slot and receives payment, and further comprises a repeater connected to the POS system and the settlement machine, the POS system having a first operation panel that registers the products and displays the sales amounts of the registered products, and a first communication means that communicates with the repeater to output the sales amounts to the repeater, the repeater communicating with the POS system and receiving the sales amounts output from the POS system and communicating with the settlement machine, The settlement machine has a second communication means for inputting the deposit amount output from the settlement machine and outputting instructions to have the settlement machine execute a process, and a second operation panel for displaying the input sales amount and deposit amount and for inputting a predetermined instruction to have the settlement machine execute a predetermined settlement process, and the settlement machine has a third communication means for communicating with the repeater, inputting the instruction output from the repeater, and outputting the deposit amount deposited into the repeater from the deposit port, and a settlement machine control means for controlling the execution of the predetermined settlement process based on the input of the instruction for the predetermined settlement process.
Another aspect of the settlement system is a settlement system comprising a POS terminal that registers products purchased by customers and displays the sales amount, and a settlement machine that has a coin deposit port and collects payment, and is further characterized by comprising a repeater connected to the POS terminal and the settlement machine, the POS terminal having a registration operation panel for input and display, registering the products and displaying the sales amount for the registered products, the repeater having a store clerk operation panel for input and display, acquiring and displaying the sales amount from the POS terminal and outputting the acquired sales amount to the settlement machine, and when the sales amount is to be settled by the settlement machine, outputting an instruction to start settlement to the settlement machine in accordance with a predetermined input entered from the store clerk operation panel, and the settlement machine having a customer operation panel for input and display, acquiring and displaying the sales amount output from the repeater, acquiring the instruction to start settlement output from the repeater and starting to collect payment, and outputting the amount of the coin deposited through the deposit port to the repeater.
Another aspect of the payment system is a payment system comprising a POS terminal that registers products purchased by customers, calculates a sales amount, displays the sales amount as a result of the calculation, and generates and outputs display data including the sales amount to be displayed on an external device, and a payment machine that has a coin deposit slot and receives payment, the payment system further comprising a repeater connected to the POS terminal and the payment machine, the POS terminal having a registration operation panel that faces the store clerk and performs input and display, registers the products purchased by the customer, and displays the sales amount, and the repeater receives the display data output from the POS terminal. and a clerk-side operation panel facing the clerk for input and display, wherein the repeater outputs the extracted predetermined information to the settlement machine, and the clerk-side operation panel allows the customer to input whether or not to collect the payment at the settlement machine, and outputs the input result to the settlement machine, and the settlement machine has a customer-side operation panel facing the customer for input and display, which inputs the predetermined information output from the repeater and displays the predetermined information.

The settlement system repeater of the present invention is a settlement system repeater connected to a POS system that registers products purchased by customers and displays sales amounts, and a settlement machine that has a currency deposit port and receives payment, and is characterized in that it has a second operation panel for input and display, acquires the sales amounts of the products registered and output by the POS system that has a first operation panel for input and display, acquires the deposit amount deposited into the deposit port output from the settlement machine, displays the acquired sales amount and the acquired deposit amount on the second operation panel, and outputs instructions to the settlement machine to perform a specified settlement process according to a specified input entered from the second operation panel.
In another aspect, a repeater of a settlement system comprises a POS terminal that registers products purchased by customers and displays the sales amount, a settlement machine that has a coin deposit slot and receives payment, and a repeater connected to the POS terminal and the settlement machine, wherein the POS terminal has a registration operation panel for input and display, registers the products, and displays the sales amount of the registered products, and the settlement machine has a customer operation panel for input and display, and displays the sales amount.The repeater is a settlement system repeater that comprises a store clerk operation panel for input and display, acquires and displays the sales amount from the POS terminal, and outputs the acquired sales amount to the settlement machine, and when the sales amount is to be settled by the settlement machine, an instruction to start settlement is output to the settlement machine in response to a specified input to the store clerk operation panel, and the repeater acquires the settlement start instruction output from the repeater, receives the payment, and acquires the deposit amount from the settlement machine, which outputs the deposit amount of the deposited coins.
In another aspect, a repeater of a settlement system comprises a POS terminal that registers products purchased by customers, calculates a sales amount, displays the sales amount resulting from the calculation, and generates and outputs display data including the sales amount to be displayed on an external device; a settlement machine that has a currency deposit slot and receives payment; and a repeater connected to the POS terminal and the settlement machine; the POS terminal has a registration operation panel that faces the store clerk and allows input and display, registers the products purchased by the customer, and displays the sales amount; and the settlement machine has a customer operation panel that faces the customer and allows input and display, A repeater for a settlement system that displays the sales amount, the repeater having a display data analysis means that inputs and analyzes the display data output from the POS terminal and extracts from the display data specified information including the sales amount to be displayed on the settlement machine, and a store clerk operation panel that is facing the store clerk and performs input and display, the repeater outputs the extracted specified information to the settlement machine, an input of whether or not to collect payment at the settlement machine is made using the store clerk operation panel, and the input result is output to the settlement machine.

In another aspect of the settlement system, a settlement machine includes a POS terminal that registers products purchased by customers and displays the sales amount, a settlement machine that has a coin slot and receives payment, and a repeater connected to the POS terminal and the settlement machine, the POS terminal includes a registration operation panel for input and display, registers the products, and displays the sales amount of the registered products, and the repeater includes a store clerk operation panel for input and display, acquires the sales amount from the POS terminal, displays the acquired sales amount, A settlement machine of a settlement system outputs the sales amount to the settlement machine, and when the sales amount is to be settled by the settlement machine, an instruction to start settlement is output to the settlement machine in response to a predetermined input to the clerk's operation panel, and the settlement machine is characterized in that it has a customer's operation panel for input and display, acquires and displays the sales amount output from the repeater, acquires the instruction to start settlement output from the repeater and starts collecting payment, and outputs the amount of the currency deposited through the deposit port to the repeater.
In another aspect of the payment system, a payment machine includes a POS terminal that registers products purchased by customers, calculates a sales amount, displays the sales amount as a result of the calculation, and generates and outputs display data including the sales amount to be displayed on an external device; a payment machine that has a currency deposit slot and receives payment; and a repeater connected to the POS terminal and the payment machine. The POS terminal is faced toward the store clerk and has a registration operation panel for input and display, registers the products purchased by the customer, and displays the sales amount. The repeater inputs the display data output from the POS terminal. a payment machine for a payment system having a display data analysis means for analyzing the display data and extracting predetermined information including the sales amount from the display data, and a store clerk operation panel facing the store clerk side for input and display, wherein the payment machine has a customer operation panel facing the customer side for input and display, and the payment machine inputs the predetermined information from the repeater and displays the predetermined information, and receives from the repeater the result of whether or not the payment should be collected at the payment machine selected by the store clerk operation panel, and operates according to the result.

According to the present invention, functions and devices can be operated by sharing data without having to generate data for each purpose, thereby providing an efficient payment machine and payment system. It also makes it easy to later install a payment machine that allows customers to pay in cash on a POS system.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the settlement system. FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the payment machine. FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a repeater. FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a POS terminal. FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a receipt printer. FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the POS server. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the settlement system. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display on the payment machine. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display on a repeater. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an outline of the settlement system. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a second example of the settlement system. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a second example of the display of the repeater. FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a second example of a POS terminal. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display on a POS terminal. FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a second example of the operation of the settlement system.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 1 to 15. Each figure is merely a schematic illustration to allow a full understanding of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated examples. Furthermore, in each figure, common or similar components are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

First, we will explain the overall settlement system. Figure 1 is a diagram explaining the configuration of the settlement system.

The payment system is installed in a store that sells goods and provides services to customers. The store is equipped with a payment machine 1, a repeater 2, a POS terminal 3, and a receipt printer 4. The POS terminal 3 is connected to a POS server 5 via a network 6. The POS terminal 3 and the repeater 2 are connected to a local network.

The settlement machine 1 is a currency processing device that deposits and dispenses currency. The settlement machine 1 deposits currency in exchange for the sale of goods or the provision of services to customers. In other words, the settlement machine 1 is a device that collects the purchase price from customers. The settlement machine 1 also dispenses change when change is due. The repeater 2 acquires data from the POS terminal 3, analyzes the data, generates data, calculates the change amount, and sends and receives data to and from the settlement machine. The POS terminal 3 registers products, calculates the total amount, calculates the change amount, stores transaction data, sends and receives data to and from the POS server, and sends and receives information to and from the repeater 2.

The receipt printer 4 is a printer that receives print data from the POS terminal 3 and prints receipts, transaction details, etc. on paper.

The POS server 5 is connected to the POS terminal and stores unit prices and transaction data associated with products for each predetermined item. It also has a database that can search the stored data and obtain the desired data.

The POS terminal 3 registers the products purchased by the customer and calculates the customer's purchase amount. The POS terminal 3 also stores transaction data for each transaction, such as the product, quantity, sales amount, payment amount, change amount, and transaction time. The transaction data is sent to the POS server 5 and stored in a database. The POS terminal 3 also generates print data including purchase details, amount, time, etc., and sends it to the receipt printer 4 for printing. By storing the same product information as stored in the POS server 5 database, the POS terminal 3 can register products even when not connected to the POS server 5. The transaction information registered in this way is stored in the database when the POS terminal 3 resumes connection with the POS server 5. The POS terminal 3 also generates and sends display data to display the customer's purchase amount and number of products resulting from the transaction on a customer display (not shown). The customer can check the product registration status and purchase amount by the store clerk on the customer display.

The display data generated by the POS terminal 3 and sent to the customer display uses markup languages such as HTML and XML. This allows the customer display to display the display data on any display device equipped with a display program such as web browser software, increasing versatility and allowing the use of a variety of display devices. The display data is preferably in a markup language that can describe sales amounts as text data and identify the portion where the sales amounts are written. While other methods are also acceptable as long as the display data can be constructed using this description method, a highly versatile method is preferred.

Next, we will explain each device included in the settlement system using Figures 2 to 6.

Figure 2 is a block diagram of the settlement machine. The settlement machine 1 is equipped with a settlement machine control means 10 that controls the entire device, a settlement machine communication means 11 that communicates with the repeater 2 to send and receive data, a settlement machine display means 12 that displays text and images on an LCD or other device, a settlement machine input means 13 that receives input through user operation, a safe that accepts deposited coins, identifies their denominations, and stores them by denomination, a cash handling means 14 that dispenses coins one by one from the safe, and a settlement machine memory 15 that stores various data such as programs, setting values, and temporary data storage. The settlement machine control means 10 also includes a change denomination number calculation means 16 that calculates the number of coins of each denomination to be dispensed from the change amount. The settlement machine 1 is a device equipped with communication functions and various service functions.

The settlement machine control means 10 controls the settlement machine communication means 11, settlement machine display means 12, settlement machine input means 13, cash processing means 14, and settlement machine memory 15 and performs various calculations. The settlement machine control means 10 is equipped with a CPU and controls the entire device and performs various calculations in accordance with the programs and settings stored in the settlement machine memory 15.

The settlement machine control means 10 includes a change denomination and number calculation means 16. The change denomination and number calculation means 16 calculates the number of coins of each denomination to be dispensed from the settlement machine based on the change amount. The change denomination and number calculation means 16 checks the number of coins of each denomination stored in the safe within the settlement machine 1, determines whether or not payment is possible, and calculates the denomination and number of coins to be dispensed. For example, if the change amount is 220 yen, the change denomination and number calculation means 16 determines the coins to be dispensed as two 100 yen coins and two 10 yen coins. If 100 yen coins are not available, the change denomination and number calculation means 16 determines the coins to be dispensed as four 50 yen coins and two 10 yen coins.

The settlement machine communication means 11 is controlled by the settlement machine control means 10, is connected to the repeater 2, and performs data communication. By performing data communication with the repeater 2, the settlement machine 1 can obtain the customer's purchase amount and change amount resulting from a transaction from the repeater 2. It can also transmit the amount deposited by the cash processing means 14. The settlement machine 1 and repeater 2 are connected wirelessly or by wire.

The payment machine display means 12 is a display means such as an LCD that is controlled by the payment machine control means 10 and displays characters and images. The payment machine input means 13 is an input means such as a keyboard that is controlled by the payment machine control means 10 and inputs characters, numbers, symbols, etc. For example, the payment machine display means 12 and the payment machine input means 13 can be integrated by using a touch panel. The set of the payment machine display means 12 and the payment machine input means 13 can also be considered a customer operation panel that faces the customer, who is the party paying the fare.

The cash handling means 14 is controlled by the settlement machine control means 10. The cash handling means 14 deposits coins, separates them one by one, and identifies their denominations. The identified coins are stored in a safe by denomination. The settlement machine control means 10 also obtains the number of coins of each denomination deposited and can manage the coins stored inside the settlement machine 1. The settlement machine control means 10 can instruct the cash handling means 14 on the number of coins to be dispensed by denomination and dispense them. For example, the change amount is obtained from the repeater 2, and the change denomination and number calculation means 16 calculates the denomination and number of coins to be dispensed based on the change amount. Based on the calculation result, the settlement machine control means 10 instructs the cash handling means 14 on the denomination and number of coins to be dispensed and causes them to be dispensed.

The settlement machine memory 15 is controlled by the settlement machine control means 10. The settlement machine memory 15 stores programs executed by the settlement machine control means 10, setting values, and various information. The settlement machine memory 15 also includes memory for a work area used for calculations by the settlement machine control means 10. The settlement machine memory 15 also stores the number of coins of each denomination stored in the settlement machine 1. The settlement machine memory 15 can use storage means such as ROM, RAM, hard disk, and flash memory.

Next, we will explain repeater 2. Figure 3 is a block diagram of the repeater.

The repeater 2 has the function of transmitting data to the payment machine 1 from a POS terminal 3 that does not have the function of directly transmitting and receiving data to the payment machine 1.

The repeater 2 includes a repeater control means 20 that controls the entire device; a repeater communication means 21 that communicates with external devices such as the POS terminal 3 via the local network; a local communication means 24 that communicates with the in-store payment machine 1; a repeater display means 22 that displays text and images on an LCD or other display; a repeater input means 23 that accepts input via user operation; and a repeater memory 25 that stores various data such as programs, settings, and temporary data. The repeater control means 20 also includes a change calculation means 26 that calculates the change based on the deposit amount and purchase amount, and a display data analysis means 27 that analyzes the display data and extracts the purchase amount. The repeater 2 is a computer equipped with communication functions and various service functions. For example, computers such as laptops, PDAs, and smartphones can be used as the repeater 2. The repeater 2 and payment machine 1 can be separate devices, the repeater 2 can be built into the payment machine 1, or the functions of the repeater 2 can be integrated into the payment machine 1.

The repeater control means 20 controls the repeater communication means 21, local communication means 24, repeater display means 22, repeater input means 23, and repeater memory 25, and performs various calculations.

The repeater control means 20 is equipped with a CPU and controls the entire device and performs various calculations according to the programs stored in the repeater memory 25.

The repeater communication means 21 is controlled by the repeater control means 20 and communicates data with external devices, such as the POS terminal 3, via a network such as a LAN. The repeater 2 acquires display data to be displayed on the customer display from the POS terminal 3. The display data is written in markup language. The repeater control means 20 can use a web browser program to cause the repeater display means 22 to display the same data as on the customer display based on the display data. Under the control of the repeater control means 20, display data can be displayed on the repeater display means 22 based on the acquired display data. It is possible to cause the repeater 2 to display the same data as on the customer display, and it can also display data necessary for store clerk-specific operations.

The local communication means 24 is controlled by the repeater control means 20 and performs data communication with the payment machine 1 located within the store. For example, the repeater 2 and payment machine 1 can be connected via USB or LAN. They may also be connected via short-range wireless communication. To increase versatility, a connection method that conforms to an internationally established communication standard is preferred.

The repeater display means 22 is a display means such as an LCD that is controlled by the repeater control means 20 and displays characters and images. The repeater input means 23 is an input means such as a keyboard that is controlled by the repeater control means 20 and inputs characters, numbers, symbols, etc. For example, the repeater display means 22 and the repeater input means 23 can be integrated by using a touch panel. The repeater display means 22 can display the same information as the customer display based on the display data. The set of the repeater display means 22 and the repeater input means 23 can also be considered a store clerk operation panel that faces the store clerk who receives the payment.

The repeater memory 25 is controlled by the repeater control means 20. The repeater memory 25 stores programs executed by the repeater control means 20, setting values, and various information. The repeater memory 25 also includes memory for a work area used for calculations by the repeater control means 20. The repeater memory 25 also stores various data required for control, such as display data obtained from the POS terminal 3 and the deposit amount obtained from the settlement machine 1. The repeater memory 25 can use storage means such as ROM, RAM, hard disk, and flash memory.

Next, we will explain the POS terminal 3. Figure 4 is a block diagram of the POS terminal.

The POS terminal 3 is where a store clerk registers products and calculates the customer's purchase amount. The POS terminal 3 is connected to the POS server 5 via a network 6 such as the Internet. For each transaction with a customer, the POS terminal 3 stores transaction data including the product, quantity, purchase amount, received amount, and date and time. The POS terminal 3 also sends the transaction data to the POS server 5, which is connected via the network 6, for storage. When registering products in a transaction with a customer, the POS terminal 3 generates and outputs display data to show the customer information such as the registration status, unit price, and total purchase amount of the transaction on a customer display.

The POS terminal 3 includes a terminal control means 30 for overall device control, a terminal communication means 31 for communicating with external devices, an external communication means 34 for communicating with the in-store receipt printer 4, a terminal display means 32 for displaying text and images such as an LCD, a terminal input means 33 for user input, and a terminal memory 35 for storing various data such as programs, settings, and temporary data. The terminal control means 30 also includes a POS system control means 36 for controlling the POS system. The POS system control means 36 performs functions such as registering products, calculating the total purchase amount, searching and retrieving data related to selected products from a database that stores product information such as the unit price of each product, storing transaction data in the database, storing transaction data in the POS server 5, and generating print data for receipts and details to be output by the receipt printer. The terminal control means 30 also includes a display data generation means 37. The display data generation means 37 generates display data for displaying purchase information such as the registration status of the customer's purchased products and the total purchase amount on a customer display. The display format is predetermined. For example, on the customer display, the number of items purchased and the total price are updated each time an item is registered. For example, the display data uses markup language, and the number and total price are calculated and updated each time an item is registered. The customer display periodically obtains the display data, such as every second, and changes the display. The POS terminal 3 is a computer equipped with communication functions and various service functions. For example, computers such as laptops, PDAs, and smartphones can be used as the POS terminal 3.

The terminal control means 30 controls the terminal communication means 31, external communication means 34, terminal display means 32, terminal input means 33, and terminal memory 35, and performs various calculations.

The terminal control means 30 is equipped with a CPU and controls the entire device and performs various calculations in accordance with programs stored in the terminal memory 35. The POS system control means 36 and display data generation means 37 operate in accordance with programs stored in the terminal memory 35.

The terminal communication means 31 is controlled by the terminal control means 30 and performs data communication with the repeater 2 via a network such as a LAN, and further performs data communication with the POS server 5 via the network 6. The POS terminal 3 sends display data to be displayed on the customer display to the repeater 2. If a customer display is connected to the POS terminal 3, the display data is sent to the customer display.

The external communication means 34 is controlled by the terminal control means 30 and communicates data with the receipt printer 4 located in the store. For example, the POS terminal 3 can send print data such as transaction details and receipts, as well as control commands, to the receipt printer 4, which then prints the transaction details and receipts. For example, the external communication means 34 can be connected via short-range wireless communication. To increase versatility, a connection method that conforms to an internationally established communication standard is preferred.

The terminal display means 32 is a display means such as an LCD that is controlled by the terminal control means 30 and displays characters and images. The terminal input means 33 is an input means such as a keyboard that is controlled by the terminal control means 30 and inputs characters, numbers, symbols, etc. For example, the terminal display means 32 and terminal input means 33 can be integrated by using a touch panel. The set of the terminal display means 32 and terminal input means 33 can also be considered a registration operation panel that is faced to the store clerk who registers the products purchased by customers and receives payment, and is operated by the clerk. In addition, products can also be registered by connecting a barcode reader to the terminal control means 30 and reading the barcode.

The terminal memory 35 is controlled by the terminal control means 30. The terminal memory 35 stores programs executed by the terminal control means 30, setting values, and various information. The terminal memory 35 also includes memory for a work area used for calculations by the terminal control means 30. The terminal memory 35 also stores various data necessary for control, such as display data sent from the POS terminal 3 and sales data. The terminal memory 35 can use storage means such as ROM, RAM, a hard disk, or flash memory.

Next, we will explain the receipt printer 4. Figure 5 is a block diagram of the receipt printer.

The receipt printer 4 is a printer that prints receipts and transaction details. The printing means 42 prints on slips of paper based on the print data generated by the POS terminal 3.

The receipt printer 4 is equipped with a printer control means 40 that controls the entire device, a printer communication means 41 that communicates with the POS terminal 3, a print means 42 that prints characters and figures on slips of paper, and a printer memory 43 that stores various data such as programs, settings, print data, and temporary data storage. The printer control means 40 generates data to drive the print means 42 based on print data obtained from the POS terminal 3, and includes a print control means 44 that drives and controls the print means 42.

The printer control means 40 controls the printer communication means 41, printing means 42, and printer memory 43 and performs various calculations.

The printer control means 40 is equipped with a CPU and controls the entire device and performs various calculations in accordance with the programs stored in the printer memory 43. The printer memory 43 is controlled by the printer control means 40. The printer memory 43 stores programs executed by the printer control means 40, setting values, and various information. The printer memory 43 also includes memory for the work area used for calculations by the printer control means 40. The printer memory 43 can use storage means such as ROM, RAM, hard disk, and flash memory.

The printer communication means 41 is controlled by the printer control means 40, connects to the POS terminal 3, and communicates data with the POS terminal 3. The receipt printer 4 obtains print data from the POS terminal 3 and prints on slips of paper based on the print data. For example, the receipt printer 4 and POS terminal 3 can be connected via USB or short-range wireless communication. To increase versatility, a connection method that conforms to an internationally established communication standard is preferred.

The printing means 42 is controlled by the printer control means 40 and performs printing based on print data. The printing means 42 is a recording device such as a thermal printer, dot impact printer, inkjet printer, or electrophotographic printer.

Next, we will explain the POS server 5. Figure 6 is a block diagram of the POS server.

The POS server 5 has a database in which transaction information such as transaction data with customers and product information such as unit prices for each product are stored in a searchable manner by item. For example, transaction data entered by the POS terminal 3 is obtained via the network 6 and stored in the database.

The POS server 5 is connected to the POS terminal 3 via a network 6 such as the Internet. The POS terminal 3 can obtain product information and transaction information from the POS server 5.

The POS server 5 comprises a server control means 50 that controls the entire device, a server communication means 51 that communicates with external devices, a server memory 52 that stores various data such as programs, setting values, and temporary data storage, and a POSDB 53, which is a database that stores product information and transaction information. The server control means 50 includes a POSDB control means 54 that controls the POSDB 53. The POSDB control means 54 controls the storage of new data in the database, which stores transaction data such as registered products and purchase amounts, and product information such as unit prices for each product, as well as searching for information according to items from the database and retrieving data.

The server control means 50 controls the server communication means 51, server memory 52, and POSDB 53 and performs various calculations.

The server control means 50 is equipped with a CPU and controls the entire device and performs various calculations in accordance with the programs stored in the server memory 52. The POSDB control means 54 operates in accordance with the programs stored in the server memory 52.

The server communication means 51 is controlled by the server control means 50 and communicates data with the POS terminal 3 via the network 6. The POS server 5 acquires new transaction data from the POS terminal 3 and stores it in the POS DB 53. The POS server 5 sends updated unit price information for each product to the POS terminal 3. The POS server 5 also searches the POS DB 53 in response to a request from the POS terminal 3 and returns information corresponding to the requested item to the POS terminal 3.

The server memory 52 is controlled by the server control means 50. The server memory 52 stores programs executed by the server control means 50, setting values, and various information. The server memory 52 also includes memory for a work area used for calculations by the server control means 50. The server memory 52 also stores various data required for control, etc. The server memory 52 can use storage means such as ROM, RAM, hard disk, and flash memory.

POSDB 53 is controlled by server control means 50. POSDB 53 is a database that stores product data and transaction data by associating related data for each predetermined item. Information stored in POSDB 53 can be searched for each item. For example, information stored in POSDB 53 can be searched for each item, such as product, date and time, customer, clerk, store, and amount.

Next, the settlement system will be explained using Figures 7 to 10. Figure 7 is a flowchart explaining the operation of the settlement system. Figure 8 is a diagram explaining an example of the display on the settlement machine. Figure 9 is a diagram explaining an example of the display on the repeater. Figure 10 is a diagram explaining an overview of the settlement system.

Figure 10 shows an overview of a store using the payment system. A customer 85 and a store clerk 86 face each other, separated by a payment machine 1, a repeater 2, a POS terminal 3, and a receipt printer 4. The clerk 86 operates the repeater 2 and the POS terminal 3, while the customer 85 operates the payment machine 1 and the receipt printer 4.

The POS terminal 3 and repeater 2 are connected via a wireless LAN using TCP/IP via a router 80. The POS terminal 3 is connected to a network 6 using TCP/IP via the router 80. The router 80 is connected to a network 6 such as the Internet. Although an external POS server 5 is not shown in Figure 10, the POS server 5 is connected to the network 6. The repeater 2 and payment machine 1 are connected via a wired USB. The receipt printer 4 and POS terminal 3 are connected via a wired USB.

The store clerk 86 registers the products the customer will purchase using the POS terminal 3. The POS terminal 3 displays the total sales amount. Display data written in markup language including the total sales amount is sent to the customer display or repeater 2. The repeater 2 displays the display data and also extracts the sales amount and outputs it to the settlement machine 1. The settlement machine 1 displays the sales amount on the settlement machine display means 12. The settlement machine 1 enters a state where it can accept deposits. The customer deposits money through the coin deposit slot 81 and banknote deposit slot 82 of the settlement machine 1. The settlement machine display means 12 displays the deposit amount, which is the total amount of currency deposited. The settlement machine 1 transmits the deposit amount to the repeater 2 periodically or whenever the deposit amount changes. The repeater 2 displays the deposit amount and sales amount each time the deposit amount is updated, and also calculates the change amount, displays the result, and transmits the change amount to the settlement machine 1. The settlement machine 1 displays the change amount on the settlement machine display means 12 and waits for the deposit completion button to be pressed by the settlement machine input means 13. When the settlement machine input means 13 detects that the deposit completion button has been pressed, it calculates the denomination and number of coins to be paid based on the change amount, outputs the result and a dispensing command to the cash processing means 14, and the cash processing means 14 dispenses the change from the change outlet 83. The customer 85 can deposit coins into the settlement machine 1 and receive the change from the settlement machine 1. The customer can also receive a receipt 84 from the receipt printer 4.

Next, the operation of the settlement system will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 7, and referring to the example display screens in Figures 8 and 9 as necessary. In this example, the POS terminal 3 is connected to the repeater 2, and the repeater 2 is connected to the settlement machine 1. The settlement system operates by controlling the operation of the POS terminal 3 by the terminal control means 30, the repeater 2 by the repeater control means 20, and the settlement machine 1 by the settlement machine control means 10. The processing of the POS terminal 3 is steps S1 to S10. The processing of the repeater 2 is steps S11 to S15 and steps S23 to S24. The processing of the settlement machine 1 is steps S16 to S22 and steps S25 to S27. Each device operates independently, acquiring data from the other devices and performing processing according to the acquired data.

First, we will explain the processing of the POS terminal 3. In step S1, the store clerk 86 uses the POS terminal 3 to register the products purchased by the customer 85. The POS terminal 3 registers the products one by one in order.

In step S2, the POS terminal 3 adds up the unit prices of each registered item and calculates the total sales amount. From the customer's perspective, the total sales amount is the total purchase amount, and from the store clerk's perspective, it is the total sales amount and payment.

In step S3, the POS terminal 3 generates display data to be displayed on the customer display. The display data is data that displays the number of registered items and the total sales amount in a specified location, in accordance with, for example, HTML or XML specifications and rules. By varying the number of items and the total sales amount that are added each time a product is registered, the display data on the customer display can be updated.

In step S4, the POS terminal 3 transmits display data to the repeater 2. The repeater 2 processes the received display data. The processing of the repeater 2 will be described later.

In step S5, it is confirmed whether product registration is complete. For example, the user touches the payment processing button displayed on the terminal display means 32 of the POS terminal 3 to input that product registration is complete. If product registration is complete, the process proceeds to step S6; if product registration continues, the process proceeds to step S1.

In step S6, the amount deposited into the settlement machine 1 is entered into the POS terminal 3.

In step S7, the change amount is calculated from the deposit amount entered into the POS terminal 3 and the total sales amount obtained by registering the products.

In step S8, the POS terminal 3 stores the transaction data. The transaction data includes information generated by the transaction, such as the date and time, the number of items per product, the amount, the total sales amount, the amount received, and the amount of change. For example, the transaction data can include various attribute information such as the customer's name, gender, and weather.

In step S9, the POS terminal 3 generates receipt data for a transaction statement and receipt, including information such as the items purchased by the customer, the quantity, unit price, and total sales amount, based on the transaction data, and controls the receipt printer 4 to print a receipt.

In step S10, the POS terminal 3 sends the transaction data and receipt data to the POS server 5, where they are stored in the POSDB 53 database. After processing, the process returns to step S1 to wait for the registration of the next transaction item.

Next, the processing of the repeater 2 will be described. First, using Figure 9, the repeater display screen 70 displayed on the repeater display means 22 of the repeater 2 will be described. The repeater display screen 70 displays a product quantity display field 71, a sales amount display field 72, a deposit amount display field 73, a change display field 74, and a product entry complete/payment start button 75. The product quantity display field 71 displays the number of registered products. The sales amount display field 72 displays the total sales amount for registered products. The deposit amount display field 73 displays the deposit amount deposited into the settlement machine 1. The change display field 74 displays the change amount obtained by subtracting the total sales amount from the deposit amount. When the product entry complete/payment start button 75 is touched, the button is selected, the touch is input to the repeater control means 20, and the corresponding processing is performed.

Next, we will explain the processing of repeater 2 using a flowchart.

In step S11, the repeater 2 waits to receive display data from the POS terminal 3. When the repeater 2 receives display data from the POS terminal 3, it proceeds to step S12 and begins processing.

In step S12, the repeater 2 stores the received display data and extracts the total sales amount from the display data. For example, display data written in markup language contains the sales amount as text data, and the location of the sales amount in the display data is known in advance, so it can be extracted. At this time, the repeater 2 may also extract data on the number of registered items. Furthermore, if the repeater control means 20 is equipped with a web browser function, the repeater display means 22 of the repeater 2 can display the total sales amount based on the display data received from the POS terminal 3.

In step S13, the repeater 2 transmits the extracted total sales amount to the settlement machine 1. At this time, the repeater 2 may also transmit data on the number of registered items.

In step S14, the process branches depending on whether product registration has been completed or not, based on the input made by the store clerk 86 to the repeater input means 23 as to whether or not to settle the payment using the settlement machine 1. If product registration is still ongoing, the process proceeds to step S11; if it has been completed, the process proceeds to step S15.

In step S15, the repeater 2 sends an instruction to the settlement device 1 to process the payment. After sending the instruction, the repeater 2 proceeds to step S11 after a predetermined time has elapsed and waits to receive display data for a new transaction.

In addition to the above processing, the repeater 2 is also equipped with the function of calculating the change amount and transmitting the calculation result to the settlement machine, which will be described later.

Next, the processing of the settlement machine 1 will be described. First, using Figure 8, the settlement machine display screen 60 displayed on the settlement machine display means 12 of the settlement machine 1 will be described. The settlement machine display screen 60 displays a sales amount display field 61, a deposit amount display field 62, a change display field 63, and a deposit completion button 64. A number display field for displaying the number of registered items may be provided. The sales amount display field 61 displays the total sales amount of registered items received from the repeater 2. The deposit amount display field 62 displays the deposit amount deposited into the settlement machine 1. The change display field 63 displays the change amount received from the repeater 2. The settlement machine 1 does not display the change amount until it has received the change amount, so the change display field 63 is indicated by a dashed line. When the deposit completion button 64 is touched, the button is selected, the touch is input to the settlement machine control means 10, and the corresponding processing is performed.

Next, the processing of the settlement machine 1 will be explained using a flowchart.

In step S16, the settlement device 1 waits to receive sales amount data from the repeater 2. When the settlement device 1 receives the sales amount data from the repeater 2, it proceeds to step S17 and begins processing.

In step S17, the settlement machine 1 obtains sales amount data from the repeater 2. For example, the sales amount data is sent from the repeater 2 every time a product is registered or periodically, such as every second, and the settlement machine 1 obtains new sales amount data.

In step S18, the settlement machine 1 displays the sales amount on the settlement machine display means 12 based on the acquired new sales amount data. At this time, the number of registered products may also be displayed. The settlement machine display means 12 of the settlement machine 1 is located on the customer side, so it functions as a customer display, allowing the customer to check the registered product status.

In step S19, the settlement device 1 checks whether a payment processing instruction has been received from the repeater 2. If it has been received, it proceeds to step S20; if it has not been received, it proceeds to step S16 and waits to receive data from the repeater 2.

In step S20, the settlement machine 1 accepts the deposit of currency by the customer through the coin deposit port 81 and the banknote deposit port 82. When coins or banknotes are deposited into the settlement machine 1, the settlement machine 1 determines the denomination of each currency and obtains the deposit amount of the deposited currency. The deposit process continues until the customer touches the deposit completion button 64, and the deposit amount is displayed on the settlement machine display means 12. The display on the settlement machine display means 12 is updated each time the deposit amount changes.

In step S21, the settlement machine 1 determines whether the deposit completion button 64 has been touched, and if it determines that it has not been touched, it proceeds to step S20 and continues the deposit process. If the settlement machine 1 determines that the deposit completion button 64 has been touched and the deposit has been completed, it proceeds to step S22 after completing the deposit process for the coins already inserted into the settlement machine 1.

In step S22, the settlement machine 1 transmits data on the deposit amount to the repeater 2. It is preferable for the settlement machine 1 to transmit data when the deposit amount is equal to or greater than the sales amount. Sending data from the settlement machine 1 to the repeater 2 before change is given will only increase the load.

Here, we will explain the change amount calculation process performed by Repeater 2.

In step S23, when the repeater 2 receives the deposit amount deposited into the settlement machine 1 from the settlement machine 1, it performs the process of calculating the change amount. The repeater 2 subtracts the sales amount held by the repeater 2 from the deposit amount received from the settlement machine to obtain the change amount. The repeater 2 displays the calculated change amount on the repeater display means 22.

In step S24, the repeater 2 transmits the calculated change amount to the settlement machine 1.

Next, we will return to the processing of settlement machine 1.

In step S25, processing waits until the calculated change amount is received from the repeater 2, and processing begins when the change amount is received. The settlement machine 1 needs to dispense change from the coins stored in the safe for each denomination. Therefore, the settlement machine 1 calculates the number of coins of each denomination to be dispensed as change, and performs the process of discharging the coins from the safe based on the result. The settlement machine 1 determines the number of coins to be dispensed in order of high denomination so that the number is less than the change amount, and determines the number of coins of each denomination so that the change amount and the dispensing amount are the same. For example, let's consider the case where the change amount is 220 yen. First, the denominations and numbers of coins of the highest denomination that are less than 220 yen are determined, starting with the highest denomination. Then, two 100 yen coins are determined, leaving 20 yen. If there are no 50 yen coins and two 10 yen coins, the dispensing amount is 220 yen, and the change amount and the dispensing amount are the same. After the denomination and number of change to be dispensed has been determined, the settlement machine 1 displays the amount of change in the change display field 63 of the settlement machine display means 12. After receiving the amount of change from the repeater 2, the amount of change can be displayed in the change display field 63. However, since there may be cases where the settlement machine 1 does not have enough coins in its safe and is unable to dispense change, it is preferable to display the amount of change after the denomination and number of change have been determined. This process can also be performed by the repeater 2.

In step S26, the settlement machine 1 dispenses coins from the safe to the change outlet 83 based on the denomination and number of change calculated by the calculation. The customer 85 can receive the change from the change outlet 83.

In step S27, after a predetermined time has elapsed, such as 5 seconds, the settlement machine 1 resets the settlement machine display screen 60 of the settlement machine display means 12, returns to step S16, and waits for the next transaction data.

Furthermore, during the deposit process in step S20, if the deposit amount exceeds the sales amount, the settlement machine 1 may transmit the deposit amount from the repeater 2 each time the deposit amount changes, and perform the processes of steps S23 and S24. The settlement machine 1 may then acquire the change amount and display the change amount in the change display field 63 of the settlement machine display means 12. This allows the customer to simultaneously check the sales amount, deposit amount, and change amount. The customer can also consider whether to continue the deposit process and decide whether to input the change using the deposit completion button 64. The process of calculating the change amount in step S25 may also be included in the settlement machine 1 process. In this case, the settlement machine 1 may transmit the change amount to the repeater 2, and the repeater 2 may acquire the change amount, or the repeater 2 may calculate and acquire the change amount independently. The repeater 2 acquires and displays the sales points, sales amount, deposit amount, and change amount, as shown on the repeater's display screen 70.

Next, another example of a settlement system will be explained using Figures 11 to 14.

Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a second example of a settlement system. The difference between the configuration of the second example of the settlement system in Figure 11 and the configuration of the settlement system in Figure 1 is whether or not a credit card payment collection device 90 and an electronic money payment collection device 91 for collecting payment by means other than cash are connected to the POS terminal 3. The credit card payment collection device 90 is a device that settles payments using a credit card. The credit card payment collection device 90 is connected to a payment server (not shown) via a network (not shown), and can make payments using a credit card. The electronic money payment collection device 91 collects payment by deducting the amount of the payment from the electronic money pre-charged on an IC card.

Next, we will explain the repeater 2. Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating a second example of the repeater display. The difference between the second example of the repeater display in Figure 12 and the example of the repeater display in Figure 9 is the presence or absence of a stop button 92. The stop button 92 is a button used by the settlement machine 1 to stop the collection of payment. Touching the stop button 92 instructs the repeater 2 to the settlement machine 1 to stop the collection of payment in cash.

Next, a second example of a POS terminal will be described. Figure 13 is a block diagram of the second example of a POS terminal. The difference between the block diagram of the second example of a POS terminal in Figure 13 and the block diagram of the POS terminal in Figure 4 is the presence or absence of a credit card payment collection device 90 and an electronic money payment collection device 91 connected to the terminal control means 30.

The credit card payment collection device 90 is controlled by the terminal control means 30. The credit card payment collection device 90 communicates with a payment server connected to a network (not shown) and collects payment by credit card. The terminal control means 30 sends the sales amount to the credit card payment collection device 90 and requests payment by credit card. After payment is made, the credit card payment collection device 90 notifies the terminal control means 30 that payment has been completed or that an error has occurred.

The electronic money payment collection device 91 is controlled by the terminal control means 30. The electronic money payment collection device 91 collects payment by deducting the amount of payment from the electronic money stored in the IC card. The terminal control means 30 transmits the sales amount to the electronic money payment collection device 91, and the electronic money payment collection device 91 deducts the amount of payment from the pre-charged electronic money. After the payment is made, the electronic money payment collection device 91 notifies the terminal control means 30 that the payment has been completed or that an error has occurred.

Next, the display on the operation panel of the POS terminal will be described. Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display on a POS terminal. The POS terminal display screen 93 of the terminal display means 32 of the POS terminal 3 displays a product quantity display field 94, a product name display field 95, a product unit price display field 96, a sales amount display field 97, a deposit amount display field 98, a change display field 99, a cash button 100, a credit card button 101, an electronic money button 102, and a payment processing button 103.

The product number display field 94 displays the number of registered products. The product name display field 95 displays the names of registered products. The product unit price display field 96 displays the unit price of registered products. The sales amount display field 97 displays the total sales amount of registered products. The deposit amount display field 98 displays the amount received or deposited. The change display field 99 displays the amount of change. When the cash button 100, credit card button 101, electronic money button 102, or payment processing button 103 is touched, the button is selected, the touch is input to the terminal control means 30, and the corresponding process is performed. The cash button 100 is used to collect payment in cash, the credit card button 101 is used to collect payment in credit card, and the electronic money button 102 is used to collect payment in electronic money. The payment processing button 103 is touched when product registration is complete, product registration is completed, and payment is processed.

Next, an example of the operation of the settlement system will be described. Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating a second example of the operation of the settlement system. The explanation will refer to Figures 11, 12, and 14 as necessary. The POS terminal 3 does not communicate data directly with the settlement machine 1. Adding the settlement machine 1 to the POS system would require major changes to the POS system's program. To enable the settlement machine 1 to be connected without changing the POS system's program, data is passed one-way from the POS terminal 3 to the settlement machine 1. The settlement machine 1 can obtain sales amount data from the POS terminal 3 via the repeater 2. By using the repeater 2 as an intermediary, the repeater 2 can extract data necessary to control the settlement machine 1 from the general-purpose data output from the POS terminal 3, and have the settlement machine 1 obtain that data. The settlement machine 1 may also have the functionality of the repeater 2.

In this example, a POS terminal 3 is connected to a repeater 2, and the repeater 2 is connected to a settlement machine 1. The POS terminal 3 is also connected to a credit card payment collection device 90 and an electronic money payment collection device 91 as devices for accepting payments other than cash. The operation of the POS terminal 3 is controlled by terminal control means 30, the operation of the repeater 2 by repeater control means 20, and the operation of the settlement machine 1 by settlement machine control means 10, resulting in the settlement system. The processing of the POS terminal 3 is steps S30 to S38. The processing of the repeater 2 is steps S39 to S46 and steps S57 to S58. The processing of the settlement machine 1 is steps S47 to S56 and steps S59 to S62. Each device operates independently, acquiring data from the other devices and performing processing according to the acquired data. Here, explanations of parts similar to those in the flowchart in Figure 7 will be omitted.

First, we will explain the processing of the POS terminal 3. The processing from steps S30 to S33 is the same as the processing from steps S1 to S4 in Figure 7.

In step S34, the POS terminal 3 confirms whether product registration is complete. For example, the completion of product registration can be confirmed by touching the payment processing button 103 (Figure 14) displayed on the terminal display means 32 of the POS terminal 3. If product registration is complete, the POS terminal 3 proceeds to step S35, and if product registration is to continue, proceeds to step S30.

In step S35, the payment collection method is selected from the operation panel of the POS terminal 3. The store clerk selects the payment collection method desired by the customer by touching the cash button 100, credit card button 101, or electronic money button 102 shown in Figure 14.

In step S36, processing is performed corresponding to the payment collection method selected in step S35. If the credit card button is selected, payment is collected by credit card. If the electronic money button is selected, payment is collected by electronic money. If the cash button is selected, payment is collected by cash. The POS terminal 3 also stores transaction data. The transaction data includes information generated by the transaction, such as the date and time, number of items per item, amount, total sales amount, amount received, change amount, and payment collection method.

In step S37, the POS terminal 3 generates receipt data for a transaction statement and receipt, including information such as the items purchased by the customer, the quantity, unit price, and total sales amount, based on the transaction data, and controls the receipt printer 4 (Figure 11) to print a receipt.

In step S38, the POS terminal 3 sends the transaction data and receipt data to the POS server 5, where they are stored in the POSDB 53 database. After processing, the POS terminal 3 proceeds to step S30 to wait for the registration of the items for the next transaction.

Next, the processing of the repeater 2 will be described. First, using Figure 12, the repeater display screen 70 displayed on the repeater display means 22 of the repeater 2 will be described. The repeater display screen 70 displays a product quantity display field 71, a sales amount display field 72, a deposit amount display field 73, a change display field 74, a product input complete button, a payment start button 75, and a cancel button 92.

Steps S39 to S41 are similar to steps S11 to S13 in Figure 7.

In step S42, product registration is completed, and processing branches depending on the input to the repeater input means 23 regarding whether or not to settle the payment in cash. For example, the repeater 2 determines whether the product input complete/payment start button 75 has been touched. If product registration is continuing, the repeater 2 proceeds to step S47; if it is complete, the repeater 2 proceeds to step S43.

In step S43, the repeater 2 sends a payment processing instruction to the settlement device 1. After sending the instruction, the repeater 2 proceeds to step S44 after a predetermined time has elapsed.

In step S44, the repeater 2 determines whether the payment has been collected by the settlement device 1. If the payment has been collected by the settlement device 1, the repeater 2 proceeds to step S39 and waits to receive display data for a new transaction. If the payment has not been collected by the settlement device 1, the repeater 2 proceeds to step S45.

In step S45, the repeater 2 determines whether or not to cancel the cash collection at the settlement machine 1. If the cancel button 92 in Figure 12 has been touched, the repeater 2 cancels the process of collecting the cash at the settlement machine 1. If the repeater 2 cancels the cash collection at the settlement machine 1, it proceeds to step S46; if not, it proceeds to step S44. Proceeding to step S44 means that the repeater 2 will wait until the collection of the cash is completed or canceled.

In step S46, the repeater 2 sends an instruction to the settlement device 1 to stop collecting payment. After sending the instruction, the repeater 2 proceeds to step S39.

In step S47, the repeater 2 determines whether or not to cancel the cash collection at the settlement machine 1. If the cancel button 92 in Figure 12 has been touched, the repeater 2 cancels the payment collection process at the settlement machine 1. If the cash collection at the settlement machine 1 is to be canceled, the repeater 2 proceeds to step S46; if not, the repeater 2 proceeds to step S39. In step S42, the repeater 2 checks whether or not the cancel button 92 in Figure 12 has been touched while product registration is continuing.

Next, we will explain the processing of settlement machine 1.

In step S48, the settlement device 1 waits to receive data such as the sales amount from the repeater 2. When the settlement device 1 receives data such as the sales amount from the repeater 2, it proceeds to step S49 and begins processing.

In step S49, the settlement machine 1 determines whether the repeater 2 has received an instruction from the settlement machine 1 to stop the collection of payment at the settlement machine 1. If the settlement machine 1 has received an instruction to stop, it proceeds to step S50; if it has not received an instruction to stop, it proceeds to step S52.

In step S50, the settlement machine 1 prohibits the acceptance of deposits and does not accept any more deposits. Furthermore, if a deposit has already been made, the settlement machine 1 pays out the deposited amount and proceeds to the next step.

In step S51, the payment machine 1 resets the display, returning the sales amount and other displayed data to 0, and proceeds to step S48. The payment machine 1 also resets the sales amount data and other data obtained from the repeater 2, and waits in a state where no data is being received. By resetting the display of the sales amount and other data, the payment machine 1 can inform the customer that the payment machine 1 cannot be used. Furthermore, since devices that accept credit cards or electronic money cards display the sales amount and other data, the customer can check the amount of the payment on another device.

In step S52, the settlement machine 1 obtains sales amount data from the repeater 2. For example, the sales amount data is sent from the repeater 2 every time a product is registered or periodically, such as every second, and the settlement machine 1 obtains new sales amount data.

In step S53, the settlement machine 1 displays the sales amount on the settlement machine display means 12 based on the acquired new sales amount data. At this time, the number of registered products may also be displayed. Since the settlement machine display means 12 of the settlement machine 1 is located on the customer side, it serves as a customer display, allowing the customer to check the registered product status.

In step S54, the settlement machine 1 checks whether a payment processing instruction has been received from the repeater 2. If an instruction has been received, the process proceeds to step S54; if not, the process proceeds to step S48. In step S55, the settlement machine 1 accepts the deposit and proceeds to the next step.

Steps S56 to S62 are similar to the processing in steps S20 to S26 in Figure 7.

In step S63, the settlement machine 1 resets the settlement machine display screen 60 of the settlement machine display means 12 after a predetermined time has elapsed, such as 5 seconds, and proceeds to step S64. After transmitting the change amount to the settlement machine 1 in step S60, the repeater 2 waits to receive data.

In step S64, the settlement device 1 notifies the repeater 2 that the payment has been received. When the payment has been received and the settlement device 1 notifies the repeater 2, the repeater 2 performs the judgment process of step S44. After this notification, the settlement device 1 returns to step S48 and waits for the next transaction data.

When the payment collection method is selected by the POS terminal 3 and the result is payment other than cash, payment is collected by the corresponding payment collection device connected to the POS terminal 3. If payment is selected as payment in cash, payment is collected by the settlement machine 1. If payment is not to be collected in cash, deposits into the settlement machine 1 are prohibited. To prohibit deposits into the settlement machine 1, the store clerk operates the repeater 2, which sends instructions to the settlement machine 1.

1 Payment machine 2 Repeater 3 POS terminal 4 Receipt printer 5 POS server 6 Network 60 Payment machine display screen 70 Repeater display screen 80 Router 81 Coin deposit slot 82 Bill deposit slot 83 Change withdrawal slot 84 Receipt 85 Customer 86 Store clerk

Claims (5)

A payment system comprising a POS system that registers products purchased by customers and displays sales amounts, and a payment machine that has a coin deposit slot and receives payments,
a repeater connected to the POS system and the settlement machine;
The POS system comprises:
a first operation panel for registering the merchandise and displaying the sales amount of the registered merchandise;
a first communication means for communicating with the relay device to output the sales amount to the relay device;
The repeater is
a second communication means for communicating with the POS system and inputting the sales amount output from the POS system, and for communicating with the settlement machine and inputting the deposit amount output from the settlement machine and outputting an instruction to cause the settlement machine to execute a process;
a second operation panel for displaying the input sales amount and the input deposit amount, and for inputting a predetermined instruction to cause the settlement machine to execute a predetermined settlement process;
The settlement machine is
a third communication means for communicating with the repeater, inputting the instruction output from the repeater, and outputting the deposit amount deposited from the deposit port to the repeater;
and a settlement machine control means for controlling execution of the predetermined settlement process based on input of the instruction for the predetermined settlement process. The settlement system described in claim 1, characterized in that the second operation panel displays the change amount, which is the difference between the deposit amount and the sales amount. The settlement system described in claim 2 further comprises a repeater control means for calculating the change amount based on the deposit amount and the sales amount and controlling the calculation to display the change amount on the second operation panel. A settlement system including a POS system that registers products purchased by customers and displays sales amounts, and a settlement machine that has a coin deposit slot and receives payments, and a settlement system repeater that is connected to the POS system and the settlement machine,
a second operation panel for input and display;
acquiring the sales amount of the commodity registered and output by the POS system having a first operation panel for input and display;
Acquire the deposit amount deposited into the deposit port output from the settlement machine;
Displaying the acquired sales amount and the acquired deposit amount on the second operation panel;
A repeater for a settlement system, characterized in that it outputs instructions to the settlement machine to execute a predetermined settlement process in response to a predetermined input entered from the second operation panel. The second communication means outputs the sales amount to the settlement machine,
the third communication means receives the sales amount output from the repeater;
4. The payment system according to claim 1, wherein the payment machine has a third operation panel that displays the deposit amount and the sales amount.