Electronic Receipt Information Management Method, Program, and System
The Problem
Existing electronic receipt technology assumes the POS terminal is connected to the internet. In reality, many retail terminals — especially in smaller shops, markets, and mobile retail — have no external network connection. These terminals simply cannot issue digital receipts under conventional systems.
Our Solution
This patent converts transaction data into HTTP GET request data encoded as QR codes. Even from a POS terminal with no internet connection, consumers simply scan the displayed QR code with their smartphone to retrieve their digital receipt.
Transaction Capture
When a transaction completes at the POS terminal, transaction data is captured along with the print request. The terminal needs no network connection — it connects to the device via USB cable, Bluetooth, or similar local connection.
Text Conversion & Code Generation
Transaction content is converted to character data within a ~2,000 character limit, then encoded as an HTTP GET request in a QR code or barcode. The character limit ensures compatibility with all smartphone browsers.
Code Display & Scan
When the consumer wants a digital receipt, the QR code is displayed on the device screen. They simply scan it with their smartphone. If the consumer chooses a paper receipt instead, the code display is suppressed.
Digital Receipt Generation
When the smartphone scans the QR code, the embedded HTTP GET request triggers the server to generate and store the digital receipt. The consumer views their receipt in their browser — no app needed.
Business Value
No Network Required
Issue digital receipts without any internet connection. Use your existing POS terminals as-is.
No App Required
Consumers scan a QR code with their standard browser. No special app to install.
Consumer's Choice
Paper or digital — the consumer decides every time. No one is forced into digital.
Easy Deployment
Works with devices as small as a single-board computer. Low-cost deployment for any retailer.
Technical Highlights
HTTP GET Method
Applying POST method to QR codes is technically difficult due to data capacity constraints. By using GET method, the system works with standard smartphone cameras and browsers, making it universally accessible.
2,000 Character Limit
Considering URL length limits across popular browsers (typically 2,000–10,000 characters), the HTTP request data is kept under ~2,000 characters. This ensures compatibility regardless of the consumer's browser.
Paper Receipt Coexistence
The system accepts paper receipt print requests and suppresses QR code display when paper is chosen. This enables gradual digital adoption without forcing the transition.