Device and method for self-service checking out

Description: TECHNICAL FIELD [Detailed description of the invention]

【0001】

[Technical field to which the invention belongs]

The present invention relates to checkout devices for use in supermarkets, other retail stores, etc., such devices act to process the item the customer has selected for purchase, and the customer checks for such item. Be able to out and pay.

【0002】

The present invention also relates to a method for performing a self-service transaction in a retail store, which transaction may be either a shopping transaction or a banking transaction.

【0003】

[Conventional technology]

In the supermarket industry, labor costs are the main expenditure that is rising rapidly, following the cost of goods sold. By reducing the amount of time the cashier handles and manipulates the goods purchased by the customer, or by making the work easier, the amount of labor required in the retail store is substantially reduced, which is currently increasing. The problem can be alleviated. Another problem experienced by supermarket management is the risk of repetitive movement disorders or injuries posed by lifting and moving heavy items daily. Therefore, in retail stores, especially supermarkets, there are obvious potential benefits that can be gained by using self-service procedures in the checkout process.

【0004】

From US Pat. No. 4,676,343, a self-service checkout system with checkout counters located in two or more groups, with a separate cashier station for each group. It has been known. Each counter is equipped with a customer-operated laser scanner that allows the customer to scan the Universal Product Code (UPC) label attached to the item the customer has selected for purchase. After scanning, the item is transported by conveyor to the bagging area. When the scan is complete, the receipt unit at the counter distributes the printed recall number to the customer. The number will be used for payment to the cashier and issuance of the final receipt, along with the items that will be placed in the bag thereafter. Although this system significantly reduces labor costs, it is usually still necessary to provide one cashier for each group of 5-6 checkout counters. The system also tends to queue up at each cashier station.

【0005】

Another known system concerns providing specially designed carts, each equipped with a portable data terminal. Each data terminal has a wireless function to communicate with a remote data processing unit and is an integrated type that allows customers to scan items as they are removed from supermarket shelves before placing them in their carts. It is equipped with a laser scanner. In this way, the running total cost of the selected items can be maintained, and when the customer finishes shopping, they can simply go to the cashier station and pay for those items. it can. This system has the disadvantage that a data terminal must be provided for each cart. Also, in the case of this system, the customer has to pay for each item at the cashier station.

【0006】

[Problems to be Solved by the Invention]

One object of the present invention is to provide a checkout device that reduces cashier intervention as compared to the known systems described above.

【0007】

[Means for solving problems]

According to the present invention, a checkout device that allows a customer to check out items selected by the customer for purchase is a means that the customer can operate to identify each item selected for purchase. A self-service terminal that works in conjunction with a customer-operable means to allow the customer to pay for an item identified by the customer-operable means without further human intervention. Includes means.

【0008】

According to another aspect of the invention, one checkout device is provided for processing an item selected by a customer for purchase. The device includes a customer-operable means of identifying each item selected for purchase. The device should provide cash to the customer by self-service terminal means, change or other means, including payment receiving means to allow the customer to make payments for the purchased item. A cash withdrawal means configured in, and an electronic control means connected to a means that the customer can operate and configured to determine the price of each item identified by the means that the customer can operate. Further included. Self-service terminal means are configured to present the customer with an indication of the total amount payable for the purchased item.

【0009】

One embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

【0010】

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

With reference to the drawings of FIGS. 1 and 2, a sefuru service checkout device 10 in a supermarket is shown. The device 10 includes a security gate 12 at the exit end of the customer's aisle 11. One of the passages 11 has a counter 14, a laser scanner / scale 16, and a self-service financial terminal 18, which is an automated teller machine (along with a coin receiving module 22 having an input slot 134). There is an ATM) 20, a coin dispenser module 24 with a coin receptacle 61, and a coupon receiving module 25 with a coupon slot 102. In addition, a signature recognition pad 26 is mounted on the coin dispenser module 24, which is attached to the ATM20.

【0011】

Self-service financial terminal 18 has been modified to include the hardware found in point-of-sale environments, including software that functionally integrates ATM functionality with point-of-sale transactions. It is preferable to use NCR's multifunctional ATM, which has been modified as such. It should be noted that ATM20 can provide traditional ATM services independently of checkout transactions.

【0012】

A recess 30 between the counter 14 and the coin dispenser module 24 supplies a plastic bag 32'suspended from the first pair of rails 34, and further suspended from a second pair of rails 35. Further provided is a lowered plastic bag 32'. As will be explained later, the customer places the purchased merchandise item in the bag 32'in the course of the merchandise purchase transaction. A surveillance video camera 36 linked to a remote surveillance station (not shown) is mounted on top of the scanner / scale 16 so that supervisors at the remote surveillance station can be removed from the scanner / scale 16 and rail 35. You can see the suspended bag 32', which allows you to monitor the complete checkout transaction performed on the checkout device 10.

【0013】

In a known manner, the ATM20 is mounted in a safe area inside the display screen 38, the faction keys 40 on either side of the display screen 38, the key pads 42 under the screen 38, and the cabinet 46 of the ATM20. A card inserted into the ATM 20 via a coin dispenser module 44, a card slot 52 associated with a cash dispenser slot 48 in cabinet 46 (eg, a customer identification card, a debit card). , A card reader 50 that is configured to read data from a credit card, or smart card), and to print paper items such as receipts and discount vouchers, and to customers via receipt slot 58. Includes printing means 54 configured to supply such items to. The first modem 51 allows the ATM 20 to maintain communication with the host computer 124. The second modem 53 allows the ATM 20 to process an authentication request for credit card payments. Alternatively, a single modem and telephone connection can be adopted for both purposes.

【0014】

The currency dispenser module 44 is made by NCR. The card reader 50 is made by NCR. The printing means 54 is made by NCR. Modems 51 and 53 are PC industry standard modules manufactured by various vendors.

【0015】

The ATM20 also includes electronic controls in the form of a PC processor unit 60, whereas a scanner / scale 16, signature pad 26, function key 40, key pad 42, card reader 50, coin receiving module. 22 and the coupon receiving module 25 are connected, and the electronic control means controls the display screen 38, the coin dispenser module 44, the coin dispenser module 24, the exit gate 12 and the printing means 54. The PC processor unit 60 is a processor compatible with a PC.

【0016】

The display screen 38 provides a continuous display that acts to guide the customer throughout the product purchase transaction, and the display provides instructions to the customer at various stages of the transaction. For example, if the instruction includes a display instructing the customer to operate a selected one of the faction keys 40, or instructing them to enter numerical data via the keypad 42. There is. Therefore, the customer can enter a personal identification number (PIN) or a product lookup (PLU) code via the keypad 42. As is well known, when the currency dispenser module 44 is instructed by the processor unit 60 to withdraw cash, one or more banknotes are contained within the currency dispenser module 44. It is removed from one or more of the cash cassettes (not shown) and passed to the customer in the form of a stack through the currency dispenser slot 48. Appropriate for the processor unit 60 to be collected by the customer from the coin receptacle 61 for the coin dispenser module 24 when coins are added to or replaced by banknotes in a course of customer transactions. Instruct them to pay out a large amount of coins.

【0017】

The signature recognition pad 26 may be a model 5991 signature recognition pad sold by NCR Corporation in Dayton, Ohio, USA. As is well known, the signature recognition pad 26 includes a pressure transducer plate 62 on which the customer "writes" his signature using a stylus (not shown). Pad 26 forms a digitized image of its signature, which is transferred to and stored in the processor unit 60 of the ATM20.

【0018】

Most items in supermarkets, with the exception of fruit and vegetable, or prepared food items, have a barcode, or Universal Product Code (UPC), which identifies the item. Scanner / Scale 16 is used to read UPC barcodes and also to weigh items without barcodes. In an embodiment of the self-service checkout device 10 of the present invention, the scanner / scale 16 is the NCR 7870 scanner / scale sold by NCR Corporation. The scanner / scale 16 includes a scale plate 66 for weighing that is mounted relative to the top surface of the counter 14. A scanning window 68 is provided within the scale plate 66, and the scanner / scale 16 is also provided with an upright scanning window 70. Therefore, the scanner / scale 16 can read barcodes on any of the four sides of the package.

【0019】

In addition, the scanner / scale can read bar codes on items that move window 68 from left to right, or from right to left, or items that are simply placed on window 68. Therefore, it is understood that the Scanner / Scale 16 is very easy to operate and can be used correctly by the general public without prior training. The scanner / scale 16 produces an audible sound when the scan is complete, and a signal identifying the scanned item is sent from the scanner / scale 16 to the processor unit 60 of the ATM 20. Upon receiving this signal, the ATM 20 displays information identifying the scanned item on the display screen 38 along with its price indication.

【0020】

If the item purchased does not have a barcode and needs to be weighed, for example an agricultural item such as a fruit or vegetable, the item is placed on scale plate 66 ( Usually in a plastic bag). The item is identified using the faction key 40, as described in detail later. When a signal indicating the weight of the item is sent from the scanner / scale 16 to the processor unit 60 and this signal is received, the ATM 20 displays information identifying the weighed item along with its price indication. Display on the screen.

【0021】

In the device of the present invention, the hardware and software of the automatic money receiving and paying machine are integrated together with the hardware and software of the point of sale terminal. Therefore, the hardware elements of Figure 2 can be integrated together in a single computer cabinet. Peripherals 16, 22, 24, 25, 26, 40, 42, 44, 50, and 54 connect to the serial controller in a well-known manner, for example, an RS232 or general purpose serial bus (USB) controller. It is preferable to be done. The display screen 38 is preferably connected to the video controller in a well-known manner. The photosensor 126 and the exit gate 12 are coupled to the exit gate control circuit in a well-known manner. The above controller is on the adapter card or on the motherboard that supports the processor unit 60.

【0022】

The software architecture is preferably designed to work with Microsoft's Windows NT operating system, but other suitable operating systems are also envisioned. Therefore, its software architecture includes self-service checkout applications and hardware drivers that allow the operating system to communicate with the peripherals in Figure 2.

【0023】

Self-service checkout applications include a combination of the software features of a point-of-sale terminal and an automated cashier. The self-service checkout application contains software objects for the elements in Figure 2 that are easily generated using well-known object-oriented programming techniques. These software objects allow self-service checkout applications to control their equipment through their operating system, and their respective actions in completing a transaction are shown in Figures 5-7 and 14-. It is described in the flowcharts of FIGS. 15 and 17 to 19.

【0024】

For security reasons, the described embodiments of the present invention are intended to be used by a customer who is provided with a customer identification card (shopping card) by a supermarket. However, it should be understood that the use of customer identification cards is not an essential condition of the present invention, and that other security measures may be employed as shown later.

【0025】

When using the self-service checkout device 10 described here, the customer puts the purchased item in a regular shopping trolley or cart 72 and approaches the counter 14. At this stage, the display screen 38 of the ATM 20 is displaying a standard initial message. It should be understood that the surveillance camera 36 has been in operation throughout the time the supermarket is open, allowing the customer and the cart 72 containing the goods to be seen by the supervisor at the remote surveillance station.

【0026】

Referring to FIG. 3, when the customer arrives at the checkout device 10, the device is idle (block 74). As indicated by the initial message on display 38, the customer initiates an ATM transaction or checkout transaction by pressing the designated function key 40. This fully activates the device (block 76) and sets the scanner / scale 16 scale reading to 0. The display on screen 38 then changes to indicate whether the customer wants to perform an ATM transaction by pressing the appropriate function key 40 (block 77). If the customer does not select an ATM transaction, the process flow goes to the preliminary itemization stage (block 78), in which the first display on screen 38 shows the customer's in card slot 52. By inserting a shopping card, the customer is instructed to identify himself, and the card is returned to the customer immediately after the information on the card has been read by the card reader 50.

【0027】

Next, in the preliminary itemization stage (block 78), the display on screen 38 is bag 32'from rail 35 (this bag is obtained from the bag 32 supply location suspended from rail 34). Instructs the customer to suspend and initiate a checkout transaction by pressing one of the specified function keys 40. The customer then performs the itemization procedure (block 80), as described in more detail later. In it, the scanner / scale 16 is used by the customer to scan or weigh individual items of goods removed from the shopping cart 72. After the itemization procedure is complete, the display on screen 38 shows how to proceed to the adjustment procedure (block 82) and the finalization procedure (block 84), after which security gate 12 is opened (block 85) and Device 10 is then reset (block 86), causing the device to return to its initial idle state (block 74).

【0028】

If the customer selects an ATM transaction in block 77, screen 38 displays a series of messages that guide the customer through a regular ATM transaction in a known way (block 87). The transaction involves the customer requesting withdrawal of cash or display of the balance of the account. In a known manner, at the beginning of an ATM transaction, the customer is required to insert his ATM card (customer identification card) into card slot 52 and enter his PIN using the keypad 42. .. The ATM card is returned to the customer prior to completing the ATM transaction. If a cash withdrawal service is requested, the requested amount is passed to the customer through dispenser slot 48 in the form of one or more banknotes, and a cash withdrawal statement printed by printing means 54 is received in receipt slot 58. Passed to the customer through.

【0029】

After the ATM transaction (block 87) is completed, the display on screen 38 asks the customer to indicate if he or she wants to perform a checkout transaction by pressing the appropriate one of function keys 40. (Block 88). If the customer wants to perform a checkout transaction, the process flow goes to the preliminary itemization stage represented by block 78. If the customer does not want to perform a checkout transaction, security gate 12 is opened (block 85), allowing the customer to exit checkout device 10 through gate 12, and the device is reset (block). 86), it is returned to its idle state (block 74).

【0030】

The procedure for itemizing block 80 in FIG. 3 is described in more detail below with particular reference to FIG. When the preliminary itemization stage (block 78 in FIG. 3) is complete, a message is displayed on screen 38 by the method instructing the customer to perform the itemization procedure in FIG. The customer is instructed via screen 38 to retrieve each item in turn from the shopping cart 72.

【0031】

For items with barcodes (block 200 in Figure 4), the item is scanned by passing over window 68 inside the scale plate 66 (block 202). More specifically, the customer is instructed to turn the barcode down, back, or both sides to pass the item over the window 68. If the scan was successful, the scanner / scale 16 will emit an audible sound, the price and identity (name, brand, weight, etc.) of the scanned item will be displayed on screen 38 and will be received by printing means 54. Printed on top. The receipt is passed to the customer through receipt slot 58 at the completion of the purchase transaction. The display on screen 38 instructs the customer to put the successfully scanned item into the bag 32'(block 214).

【0032】

When the item is being scanned, device 10 operates according to the program shown in the flowchart of FIG. As shown in step 300 of FIG. 5, the scanner / scale 16 is initialized before the bar code label is scanned in step 302. The scanner / scale 16 then decodes the barcode label and provides the product identification number associated with that item as shown in step 304, after which this information is shown in step 306. Send to processor unit 60 as if it were. Processor unit 60 further sends this information to host computer 124 as shown in step 308. The host computer 124 gets a description of the item using the product identification number associated with the item, and the price lookup stored in the memory of the host computer 124 as shown in step 310. -Get the price of the item from the file. The host computer 124 then sends this information to processor unit 60 as shown in step 312. The description of the item and the price of the item are displayed on the display screen 38 as shown in step 314. The price of that item is then added to the total number of transactions stored in the memory of processor unit 60.

【0033】

If the scan (blocks 200 and 202 in Figure 4) is unsuccessful, the customer is instructed to check and enter the PLU code for that item (blocks 204 and 206). Instead of scanning an item (for example, if the item has a strange shape), the customer can go directly to the PLU code procedure (block 206) for entering the PLU code. In the PLU procedure, the display on screen 38 instructs the customer to read the PLU code from the label above the item in question and then enter the PLU code by means of the keypad 42. The ATM20 confirms that the PLU code has been entered correctly by displaying the item's identity and price on screen 38, and this information is printed on the receipt as for the scanned item. After the PLU code is entered correctly, the customer places the item in bag 32'(block 214).

【0034】

When the PLU code is entered for that item, device 10 operates according to the program shown in the flowchart of FIG. As shown in step 400 of FIG. 6, the processor unit 60 sends the input PLU code to the host computer 124. The host computer 124 decodes the PLU code as shown in step 402 to obtain the product identification number for the item. The host computer 124 uses the product identification number associated with the item and uses the item from a price lookup file stored in the memory of the host computer 124 as shown in step 404. Get the description and price of. The host computer 124 then sends this information to processor unit 60 as shown in step 406. The description of the item and the price of the item are displayed on the display screen 38 as shown in step 408. The price of that item is then added to the total amount of transactions stored in the memory of processor unit 60 as shown in step 410.

【0035】

If the item does not have a bar code (for example, a prepared food item or a fruit or vegetable), or if the item was not scanned successfully, or if it is inconvenient to scan, the customer will be asked to do so. If the item is to be weighed, place it on scale plate 66 (blocks 208 and 210 in Figure 4) or instruct to enter the item's PLU code (blocks 204 and 206). Will be done.

【0036】

When the item is like being weighed, the customer places the item on scale plate 66 and uses function key 40 to enter the item's identity (block 208 in Figure 4 and). 210). The action of placing an item on scale plate 66 automatically displays the appropriate menu on screen 38. Typical menus displayed on the screen 38 are shown in FIGS. 8 to 12. The item of goods on the scale plate 66 is identified by the customer by using the function key 40 to select the appropriate displayed option.

【0037】

For example, the "Golden Delicious" apple has function key 40A in FIG. 8, function key 40B in FIG. 9, function key 40C in FIG. 10, and function key 40C in FIG. Identified by pressing function key 40D. The scanner / scale 16 sends a signal indicating the weight of the item to the processor unit 60 of the ATM20, so that when the customer identifies the item, the processor unit 60 displays the item's identity and price on screen 38. Displayed on and printed on the receipt. When the correct input of the weighed item is confirmed by displaying the item's identity and price on screen 38 as shown in Figure 12, the item is placed in the bag 32'. (Block 214 in Figure 4). The customer then presses either function key 40E or function key 40F, depending on whether he wants to check out more produce items.

【0038】

When the item is weighed, device 10 operates according to the program shown in the flowchart of FIG. As shown in step 500 of FIG. 7, a sequence of menus (eg, FIGS. 8-12) is displayed, which allows the customer to identify the type of produce being purchased. After the produce type is identified, the scanner / scale 16 determines the weight of the produce and sends this weight information to the processor unit 60 as shown in FIG. 502. In step 504, processor unit 60 obtains the price per unit weight of the identified type of produce from the host computer 124. Processor unit 60 calculates the total price by multiplying its weight by the unit price, as shown in step 506, using the actual weight of the agricultural product and the unit price of the agricultural product. The total price of the produce is then displayed on the display screen 38 as shown in step 508.

【0039】

After the item is placed in the bag 32', the customer removes the next item from cart 72, scans the item (blocks 200 and 202 in Figure 4), and confirms and enters the PLU code for that item (block 204). And 206) or after repeating the itemization procedure of weighing and identifying the item (blocks 208 and 210), the item is placed in the bag 32'again (block 214). The itemization procedure just described continues until the last item (block 216 in Figure 4) is placed in the bag 32', after which the customer purchases by manipulating the appropriate one on function key 40. Indicates that the processing of the item has been completed. The total amount paid by the customer at that time is displayed on screen 38.

【0040】

If bag 32'is full or virtually full on a long checkout transaction course, remove bag 32' from rail 35, place it on cart 72, and continue with its itemization process. It is replaced by taking an empty bag from rail 34 before doing so.

【0041】

Now, returning to Figure 3, after the customer indicates that the itemization procedure (block 80) has been completed, the customer must make adjustments (block 82), such as with a given type of discount voucher that he or she wants to use. A message asking if it should be displayed appears on screen 38. By manipulating the appropriate key on function key 40, the customer indicates whether one or more such coupons will be used as shown in block 240 of FIG. If there are coupons, the customer inserts each coupon into the coupon slot 102 of the coupon receiving device 25. The coupon receiving device 25 determines (block 244) whether the coupon inserted by the customer is valid or not in a known manner.

【0042】

When the customer inserts the coupon into the coupon receiving device 25, the device 10 operates according to the program shown in the flowchart of FIG. As shown in step 700 of FIG. 14, the processor signals the coupon receiving device 25 to activate the coupon receiving device. When activated, the coupon receiving device 25 reads the inserted coupon as shown in step 702 and sends the information read from the coupon to the processor 704 as shown in step 704. Processor unit 60 also sends this coupon information to host computer 124 as shown in step 706.

【0043】

As shown in step 708 of FIG. 14, the host computer 124 uses data from the coupon lookup file stored in the memory of the host computer 124 to obtain coupon information in a known manner. Confirm. If the coupon information is determined to be valid in step 710, the program proceeds to step 712, in which the host computer 124 processes a message indicating that the inserted coupon is valid. Send back to unit 60. Otherwise, the program proceeds to step 714, in which the host computer 124 sends back a message to the processor unit 60 indicating that the inserted coupon is invalid.

【0044】

After all coupons have been inserted into the coupon receiving device 25, and after all inserted coupons have been verified to be valid, processor unit 60 adjusts the total price of the purchased item. (Block 246 in Figure 13), and ensure that this adjustment amount is recorded on the receipt issued to the customer. In the steps represented by block 240, if the customer indicates that there are no coupons to be used, the customer owns a special case card (eg, a card issued to a supermarket employee). A message asking if you are will appear on screen 38.

【0045】

If the customer has a card in a special case (block 248 in Figure 13), the customer inserts this card (block 250) into the card slot 52 of the ATM20 and the card reader 50 has the special case. Reading the information contained on the card's magnetic stripe, processor unit 60 makes the appropriate adjustments to the total purchase price (block 246), after which the card is returned to the customer. The special case card may be the same as the shopping card used by the customer in the spare itemization step represented by block 78 in FIG.

【0046】

When the special case card is inserted into the card slot 52 of the ATM 20, the device 10 operates according to the program shown in the flowchart of FIG. As shown in step 800, the card reader 50 reads the card in its special case and sends this information to the processor unit 60. Processor unit 60 further sends this information to host computer 124 as shown in step 802. The host computer 124 uses this information to obtain a discount rate from a discount lookup file stored in the memory of the host computer 124 as shown in step 804. The host computer 124 uses that discount rate to calculate the total discount amount to be applied to the checkout transaction as shown in step 806, and this amount is as shown in step 808. Send to processor unit 60. Processor unit 60 then adjusts the total transaction amount of the checkout transaction by the total discount amount applicable as shown in step 810. After such adjustments have been made, or if the customer did not have a coupon or special case card, the device will have the final steps as described below with a reference to FIG. 16 (block in FIG. 3). Go to 84).

【0047】

At the beginning of the final step, the total amount paid by the customer will be displayed on screen 38, asking if the customer wants to pay by card (magnetic stripe credit card or smart card) or in cash. A message is displayed on screen 38. The customer makes this selection by pressing the appropriate one of the function keys 40.

【0048】

If the customer chooses to pay by credit card (block 260 in Figure 16), the customer is instructed by a message on screen 38 to insert their credit card into card slot 52 (block 262). ). The customer then performs the credit card authentication procedure by entering his signature using the signature pad 26, as directed by a message on screen 38. A digitized version of the customer's signature is stored in the memory portion of processor unit 60. This is for future reference in the event of a dispute regarding a particular checkout transaction.

【0049】

When the customer inserts the credit card into the card slot 52, the device 10 operates according to the program shown in the flowchart of FIG. As shown in step 904 of FIG. 17, the card reader 50 reads information from the credit card in response to its credit card being inserted into card slot 52, and then reads this information. Send to processor unit 60. In step 902, processor unit 60 performs the steps necessary to authenticate its credit card transaction in a known manner. If the credit card transaction is approved, as determined in step 904, the program proceeds to step 906, in which the processor unit 60 instructs the card reader to return the credit card to the customer. Send a message to the card reader 50 to do so. The processor unit 60 then displays to the customer a message on screen 38 indicating that another payment method needs to be selected, as shown in step 908. Also, as shown in step 910, the available payment methods are displayed on screen 38.

【0050】

If the credit card transaction is approved, as determined in step 904, the program proceeds to step 912, in which the processor unit 60 signals the signature recognition pad 26 to send the device. Activate. When the signature recognition pad 26 is activated, a message requesting that the customer's signature be provided is displayed on the screen 38. After capturing the customer's signature, the signature recognition pad 26 sends this information to the processor unit 60 as shown in step 916. Step 910 further sends that information to the host computer 124 as shown in step 918. The host computer 124 then stores this signature in a transaction file containing the transaction details on the host computer 124, as shown in step 920, and the processor unit 60 goes to step 924. As shown, it signals the card reader 50 to return the credit card to the customer.

【0051】

Next, a message appears on screen 38 asking if the customer needs cashback. Cashback means a feature provided by a supermarket to a customer paying by debit or credit card that allows the customer to receive cash up to a certain limit in the course of the checkout transaction. This feature has an advantage from a supermarket perspective in that it reduces the amount of cash that must be deposited in the bank. The customer indicates whether cashback is required by pressing the appropriate one of function keys 40.

【0052】

If the customer did not require cash back, the total amount paid by the customer will be displayed on screen 38, along with the final total payment amount, along with details of all purchased items with some adjustments printed. The receipt is issued to the customer through slot 58, and the processor unit 60 signals the customer's account corresponding to the credit card used to indicate the amount to be debited. Send to host computer 124 (Figure 2). If the customer indicates that they need cash back, the total payment amount will be paid by processor unit 60 to reflect the cash back amount requested by the customer before the total amount is printed on the receipt. It will be adjusted. The processor unit 60 then causes the dispenser module 44 (and possibly the coin dispenser 24) to withdraw the cash requested by the customer by a cashback method.

【0053】

If the customer chooses to pay with a smart card (block 264 in Figure 16), the customer is instructed to insert his smart card into card slot 52 (block 264). When the customer inserts the smart card into the card slot 52, the device 10 operates according to the program shown in the flowchart of FIG. As shown in step 940 of FIG. 18, the card reader 50 reads information from the smart card in response to inserting the smart card into the card slot 52. If the amount available on the smart card is less than or equal to the total transaction amount, as determined in step 942, the program proceeds to step 944, in which processor unit 60. Sends a message to the card reader 50 instructing the card reader to return the smart card to the customer. The processor unit 60 then displays to the customer a message on screen 38 indicating that another payment method needs to be selected, as shown in step 946. Also, the available payment methods are displayed on screen 38 as shown in step 948.

【0054】

If the amount available on the smart card is greater than or equal to the total amount of the transaction, as determined in step 942, the program proceeds to step 950, in which the processor unit 60 uses that total amount of the transaction. Renew your smart card by deducting it from your smart card. The processor unit 60 then signals the card reader 50 to return the smart card to the customer, as shown in step 952. A message may appear on screen 38 asking if the customer needs a cash bag as described above for credit card use.

【0055】

If the customer chooses to pay in cash (block 268 in Figure 16), the customer accepts banknotes with an amount equal to or greater than the total payment amount, as shown in step 270. A message on screen 38 tells you to insert it into 22 inputs / slots 134. When the customer inserts a bill into the input slot 134 of the money receiving device 22, the device operates according to the program shown in the flowchart of FIG. As shown in step 960 of FIG. 19, the money receiving device 22 reads the amount of the inserted banknote and sends a signal indicating the amount of the banknote to the processor unit 60. Processor unit 60 determines if the note is acceptable, as shown in step 964. If the note is determined to be unacceptable in step 964, the program proceeds to step 966, in which the processor signals the money receiving device to return the note to the customer. Processor unit 60 also displays available payment methods on screen 38, as shown in step 968.

【0056】

If the note is determined to be acceptable in step 964, the program proceeds to step 970, in which the processor unit 60 deducts the amount of the note from the total amount of the transaction. If the total amount of the transaction after deducting the amount of that note is still positive as determined in step 972, the customer will need to insert more cash and the program will receive another note. Return to the starting position. If the total amount of the transaction after deducting the amount of the note is not positive as determined in step 972, the program proceeds to step 974.

【0057】

At step 974, it is determined whether the total amount of the transaction after deducting the amount of the note is equal to zero. If the decision in step 974 is yes, the customer has paid an amount of cash equal to the total amount of the transaction and the program ends. If the verdict in step 974 is no, the customer must get change and the program proceeds to step 976. When change is required, the processor unit 60 sends a signal to the coin dispenser module 24 and / or the cash dispenser 44 to pay out the appropriate amount of change to be received by the customer. This completes the finalization procedure (block 84 in Figure 3).

【0058】

After the finalization procedure in block 84 of FIG. 3 is completed, the processor unit 60 signals the security gate 12 to open the gate 12. The device is then reset as previously described (block 86 in Figure 3) and returned to its idle state (block 74 in Figure 3). At the end of the finalization procedure in block 84 of Figure 3, the customer takes change or cash in a cash bag for himself. As previously described, this cash is passed to the customer through the banknote dispenser slot 48 of the ATM 20 and / or at the coin receptacle 61 of the coin dispenser 24. The customer also takes a receipt passed through receipt slot 58. Finally, the customer removes the bag 32'containing the purchased item from the rail 35, puts the bag 32'into the cart 72, and exits through the open security gate 12.

【0059】

A photosensor device 126 (FIG. 2) near the gate 12 senses that the customer and cart 72 have passed through the gate 12 and signals the processor unit 60, which causes the gate 12 to close. It returns to the locked state and is ready for the next customer. After the gate behaves as shown in block 85 in Figure 3, the process flow proceeds to block 86, in which the checkout device 10 resets as shown by block 86 in Figure 3. After being done, it returns to its idle state (block 74).

【0060】

As an additional security measure, supermarket management can sometimes perform a spot check on the contents of the cart 72 after the customer and the cart 72 have passed through the exit gate 12. Therefore, this check will compare the purchased items listed on the receipt issued to the customer at the end of the relevant transaction with the contents of the cart 72. If such a spot check finds a discrepancy, and the customer cannot explain it satisfactorily, then some action, such as confiscation or invalidation of the customer's shopping card, will be taken against the customer. May be done.

【0061】

In general, supermarkets or other retail stores will be equipped with multiple self-service checkout devices as described above. The security video cameras 36 of the various self-service checkout devices will all be linked to the same remote surveillance station. In addition, supermarkets or other retail stores will be equipped with multiple conventional cashier-deployed checkout counters, for example, for use by customers who do not have a customer identification shopping card.

【0062】

Checkout devices according to the invention, such as the checkout device 10 described herein by embodiment with reference to the accompanying drawings, perform a complete checkout transaction by the customer without the intervention of its retail staff. It has the advantage of being able to. In addition, such checkout transactions can also include the ability to withdraw change or cash bags to customers without staff intervention. However, if a customer needs assistance at any time during the checkout transaction, the customer can obtain staff assistance by pressing the appropriate one of the function keys 40. Also, in the course of the checkout transaction, if the processor unit 60 learns that the required action on the customer side has been omitted or has been taken incorrectly, the processor unit 60 will contact the monitoring station. Will send an alarm signal, which will bring staff to the checkout device 10 for the purpose of investigating the problem.

【0063】

Another advantage of the self-service checkout device described here is that it allows the device to choose to pay by card or cash, and the customer has a coupon or special case card (eg employee card). It is possible to make adjustments when there is.

【0064】

Another important advantage of the checkout device 10 described here is that the ATM20, which is an integral part of the checker and controls its operation, provides all of the ATM's normal services independently of the checkout transaction. It can be used to do. Therefore, the checkout device is very cost effective. This is because traditional ATMs, which provide traditional ATM services, form an important part of the checkout device, given that appropriate software changes are made.

【0065】

With reference to the accompanying drawings, it may be possible to make various improvements, changes and modifications to the self-service checkout device described herein by embodiment without leaving the true spirit and scope of the invention. Understood. Such improvements, changes and modifications in the conventional art in which the present invention is relevant are intended to be covered by additional claims.

【0066】

For example, as one of the security functions of the checkout device 10, the bag 32'containing the purchased item can be indicated on the weighing scale instead of being hung from the rod 35. With such a configuration, each time an item is placed in the bag 32', the weight of the item is determined by the scale and communicated to the processor unit 60 for scanning or PLU input. Compared to the known weight for the item identified in operation. In addition to the Scanner / Scale 16, you can also have your own barcode laser scanner for use in scanning bulky and strangely shaped items. In addition, the checkout device 10 may include a check receiving device to allow the customer to pay by check for the purchased item.

【0067】

In addition, with respect to the itemization procedure, preparations can be made to treat regulated items such as alcoholic beverages or cigarettes in a special way. For example, if the scanned item is identified as a regulated item, a warning signal is sent from processor unit 60 to the surveillance station to see if the purchase was made by a minor. You can check using 36.

【0068】

In another alternative configuration, to omit the coin dispenser 24 and use it in connection with future self-service or cashier-assisted checkout transactions instead of offering change to customers in the form of coins. Can provide customers with alternative compensation in the form of discount coupons or equivalent value coupons printed by ATM20. Such discount coupons or coupons will be printed by printing means 54 and issued to the customer through receipt slot 58.

[Simple explanation of drawings]

[Figure 1]

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a self-service checkout device constructed according to the present invention.

[Figure 2]

It is a block diagram which shows the electrical connection of the component of the apparatus of FIG.

[Fig. 3]

A high-level flowchart used to describe a complete customer transaction.

[Fig. 4]

A flowchart used to describe the procedure for itemizing a checkout transaction, in which the customer scans an individual item of goods and enters a product lookup (PLU) code for it, or agricultural products. Weigh the item.

[Fig. 5]

It is a flowchart of a program executed by a device when an individual item of goods is scanned.

[Fig. 6]

It is a flowchart of the program executed by the device when the customer inputs the PLU code.

[Fig. 7]

It is a flowchart of a program executed by a device when an item of agricultural products is weighed.

[Fig. 8]

Typical appearing on the screen of an automated teller machine (ATM) included in the equipment of Figures 1 and 2 when the produce items are weighed according to the program in the flowchart of Figure 7. Display.

[Fig. 9]

Typical appearing on the screen of an automated teller machine (ATM) included in the equipment of Figures 1 and 2 when the produce items are weighed according to the program in the flowchart of Figure 7. Display.

[Fig. 10]

Typical appearing on the screen of an automated teller machine (ATM) included in the equipment of Figures 1 and 2 when the produce items are weighed according to the program in the flowchart of Figure 7. Display.

[Fig. 11]

Typical appearing on the screen of an automated teller machine (ATM) included in the equipment of Figures 1 and 2 when the produce items are weighed according to the program in the flowchart of Figure 7. Display.

[Fig. 12]

Typical appearing on the screen of an automated teller machine (ATM) included in the equipment of Figures 1 and 2 when the produce items are weighed according to the program in the flowchart of Figure 7. Display.

[Fig. 13]

It is a flowchart used to describe the adjustment procedure that may occur in the checkout transaction that follows the completion of the itemization procedure in Figure 4.

[Fig. 14]

It is a flowchart of the program executed by the device when the customer uses the coupon in the adjustment procedure of FIG.

[Fig. 15]

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a program executed by the device when the customer uses a special card in the adjustment procedure of FIG.

[Fig. 16]

Following the completion of the adjustment procedure of FIG. 13, the flowchart used to describe the final decision procedure in the checkout transaction.

[Fig. 17]

A flowchart of a program executed by a device when a customer uses a credit card to make a payment for a purchased item to complete a checkout transaction.

[Fig. 18]

A flowchart of a program executed by a device when a customer pays for a purchased item using a SMART card to complete a checkout transaction.

[Fig. 19]

A flowchart of a program executed by the device when a customer uses banknotes for an item purchased to complete a checkout transaction.