Label reading device and label reading system

Abstract

The present invention discloses a tag reading device and a tag reading system, which can quickly specify the minimum output value that can read an RFID tag. The tag reading device includes: an antenna, a communication control circuit, a communication interface and a processor. The communication control circuit controls the output signal output from the antenna and the received signal received by the antenna. The communication interface communicates with a host device. The processor uses the antenna and the communication control circuit to specify the minimum output value of the output signal that can read a specified RFID tag, and sends the minimum output value to the host device through the communication interface.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority from Japanese patent application No. JP2020-029098, filed on February 25, 2020, and cites the contents of the aforementioned application, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] The embodiments of the present invention relate to a tag reading device and a tag reading system. Background Art

[0003] The tag reading device has a function of setting the output value of an output signal outputted by reading an RFID tag (hereinafter, also referred to as a wireless tag). In addition, currently, the tag reading device and the host device constitute a tag reading system, and the tag reading device operates according to the instruction from the host device. For example, in the existing tag reading system, the tag reading device sets the output value of the output signal according to the set value specified by the instruction from the host device.

[0004] At present, in order for a tag reader to change the output value and perform the reading process of an RFID tag, the host device must provide instructions to the tag reader each time the output value is changed. Therefore, the host device needs to determine the minimum output value of the specified RFID tag that the tag reader can read based on the reading result after the output value is changed step by step through the instruction. In such a tag reading system, there is a problem that it takes time to determine the minimum output value of the specified RFID tag that the tag reader can read. Summary of the invention

[0005] In view of the above problems, the technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a tag reading device and a tag reading system, which can quickly specify the minimum output value that can read the RFID tag.

[0006] To solve the above problems, one embodiment of the present invention provides a tag reading device, including: an antenna, a communication control circuit, a communication interface and a processor. The communication control circuit controls the output signal output from the antenna and the received signal received by the antenna. The communication interface communicates with a host device. The processor uses the antenna and the communication control circuit to specify the minimum output value of the output signal that can read the specified RFID tag, and sends the minimum output value to the host device through the communication interface.

[0007] According to the above-mentioned tag reading device, it is possible to provide a tag reading device that can quickly specify the minimum output value that can read an RFID tag.

[0008] In the above-mentioned tag reading device, the communication control circuit causes the output value of the output signal output from the antenna to change in stages to read the RFID tag, and the processor specifies the minimum output value based on the reading result of the RFID tag when the communication control circuit causes the output value of the output signal output from the antenna to change in stages.

[0009] According to the above-mentioned tag reading device, it is possible to specify the minimum output value while reading the RFID tag.

[0010] In the above-mentioned tag reading device, the processor sends the minimum output value together with the tag information read from the RFID tag to the host device through the communication interface.

[0011] According to the above-mentioned tag reading device, the tag information can be sent to the host device together with the minimum output value of the RFID tag.

[0012] In the above-mentioned tag reading device, the processor receives a designated value of the output value from a host device through the communication interface.

[0013] According to the above-mentioned tag reading device, reading can be started based on the output value of the readable RFID tag.

[0014] In the above-mentioned tag reading device, the processor specifies the minimum output value within a range not exceeding the received specified value.

[0015] According to the above-mentioned tag reading device, the minimum output value can be designated within a range not exceeding the output value designated by the host device.

[0016] In the above-mentioned tag reading device, when the minimum output value is specified, the processor transmits a notification indicating that the minimum output value has been specified to the host device through the communication interface.

[0017] According to the above-mentioned tag reading device, it is possible to notify the host device that the minimum output value has been designated.

[0018] In the above-mentioned tag reading device, the processor ends reading when the minimum output value has been specified.

[0019] According to the above-mentioned tag reading device, it is possible to prevent unnecessary minimum output value designation processing.

[0020] Another aspect of the present invention is a tag reading system, which has a tag reading device and a host device, wherein the tag reading device includes: an antenna; a communication control circuit, which processes the output signal output from the antenna and the signal received by the antenna; a first communication interface, which communicates with the host device; and a first processor, which uses the antenna and the communication control circuit to specify the minimum output value of the output signal that can read a specified RFID tag, and sends the minimum output value to the host device through the first communication interface, wherein the host device includes: a second communication interface, which communicates with the tag reading device; and a second processor, which uses the second communication interface to obtain the minimum output value of the output signal that can read the RFID tag from the tag reading device.

[0021] According to the above-mentioned tag reading system, it is possible to provide a tag reading system that can quickly specify the minimum output value that can read an RFID tag.

[0022] In the above-mentioned tag reading system, the communication control circuit of the tag reading device reads the RFID tag by changing the output value of the output signal output from the antenna in stages based on the output setting value specified by the host device, the first processor of the tag reading device specifies the minimum output value based on the reading result of the RFID tag when the communication control circuit changes the output value of the output signal output from the antenna in stages, and sends the minimum output value together with the tag information read from the RFID tag to the host device through the first communication interface, and the second processor of the host device specifies the output setting value of the output signal output from the antenna used to read the RFID tag to the tag reading device based on the minimum output value obtained from the tag reading device using the second communication interface.

[0023] According to the tag reading system described above, it is possible to specify a minimum output value while reading an RFID tag.

[0024] In the above-mentioned tag reading system, when the minimum output value has been specified, the first processor sends a notification indicating that the minimum output value has been specified to the host device through the first communication interface, and when the first processor receives a request to send the minimum output value from the host device through the first communication interface, the minimum output value is sent to the host device through the first communication interface. When the second processor receives the notification indicating that the minimum output value has been specified through the second communication interface, the second processor sends the request to send the minimum output value to the tag reading device through the second communication interface.

[0025] According to the tag reading system described above, when the minimum output value has been designated, the minimum output value can be quickly received from the tag reading device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Below, the label reading device and label reading system involved in the embodiment are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. When considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, by referring to the detailed description below, the present invention can be more completely and better understood and many of the accompanying advantages can be easily known, but the drawings described herein are used to provide a further understanding of the present invention and constitute a part of this application. The exemplary embodiments of the present invention and their descriptions are used to explain the present invention and do not constitute an improper limitation of the present invention, wherein:

[0027] Figure 1 is a block diagram schematically showing a configuration example of a tag reading system including a tag reading device according to an embodiment;

[0028] Figure 2 A diagram for explaining a search system as an application example of the tag reading system according to the embodiment;

[0029] Figure 3 A diagram showing a display example of a host device in a search system as an application example of the tag reading system involved in the embodiment;

[0030] Figure 4 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a reading result of an RFID tag stored in a cache memory of a tag reading device according to an embodiment;

[0031] Figure 5 is a flowchart for explaining an operation example of a tag reading device in the tag reading system according to the embodiment; and

[0032] Figure 6 This is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the host device in the tag reading system involved in the embodiment.

[0033] Description of Reference Numerals

[0034] 1(101) Tag reading system

[0035] 10(110) Tag reading device

[0036] 11(111) Upper device

[0037] 12 processors (second processor)

[0038] 14 Communication interface (second communication interface)

[0039] 21 processors (first processor)

[0040] 24 Communication control circuit 25 Antenna

[0041] 26 Communication interface (first communication interface)

[0042] 29 Data memory 30 Timer

[0043] 46 Output setting section. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0045] First, the configuration of the tag reading device 10 according to the embodiment and the tag reading system 1 including the tag reading device 10 will be described.

[0046] Figure 1 It is a block diagram schematically showing a configuration example of a tag reading system 1 including a tag reading device 10 according to the embodiment.

[0047] like Figure 1 As shown, the tag reading system 1 involved in the embodiment includes a tag reading device 10 and a host device 11 (main device, upper device). In the tag reading system 1, the tag reading device 10 reads an RFID tag (wireless tag). The host device 11 estimates the position of the RFID tag based on the result of the tag reading device 10 continuously reading the RFID tag, and specifies the item to which the read RFID tag is attached.

[0048] For example, the tag reading system 1 is used as a search system for searching for items with RFID tags attached that are located in a specified area such as a warehouse and / or a store. The tag reading system 1 as such a search system continuously reads RFID tags by the tag reading device 10 while moving the tag reading device 10. The host device 11 detects the position of the RFID tag based on the reading result of the RFID tag obtained from the tag reading device 10. In addition, the tag reading device 10 supplies the output value (intensity) of the minimum output signal (radio wave) that can read the RFID tag to the host device 11 together with the tag information read from the RFID tag.

[0049] In addition, in the present embodiment, the tag reading device 10 continuously reads the RFID tags attached to the articles such as commodities while moving. The host device 11 performs a predetermined process (such as a search process) based on the reading results of the continuously read RFID tags. However, the tag reading system 1 may also be a system in which the tag reading device 10 set at a predetermined position continuously reads the RFID tags attached to the articles.

[0050] The tag reading device 10 reads the information recorded on the RFID tag by receiving a reply (response) signal from the RFID tag within the communication range (reading range) by wireless communication. For example, the tag reading device 10 can be a handheld device that an operator holds in his hand for operation, or a device mounted on a mobile body.

[0051] The tag reading device 10 transmits an electric wave (output signal) requesting a response to the RFID tag at a set intensity (output value). The tag reading device 10 receives a response signal from the RFID tag in response to the electric wave requesting a response. The tag reading device 10 receives a response signal indicating tag information from an RFID tag (an RFID tag activated by the emitted electric wave) existing in the communication range. In addition, if there are multiple RFID tags in the communication range, the tag reading device 10 receives a response signal indicating tag information of each RFID tag from these RFID tags.

[0052] In addition, the tag reading device 10 notifies the host device 11 of the output value (minimum output value) of the minimum output signal that can read the RFID tag (can receive the response signal from the RFID tag). The tag reading device 10 sends the reading result including the tag information of the RFID tag and the minimum output value to the host device 11. In addition, the tag reading device 10 can also measure the RSSI value indicating the strength of the response signal (received signal) received from the RFID tag. At this time, the tag reading device 10 can also provide the RSSI value when reading the RFID tag as the reading result of the RFID tag to the host device.

[0053] The RFID tag is attached to an item such as a commodity or a component, and the tag information containing the information of the designated item is recorded in the internal memory. The RFID tag is activated by the radio wave from the tag reading device 10. The RFID tag outputs a response signal containing the tag information recorded in its own memory according to the read command from the tag reading device 10. The RFID tag operates by the radio wave (output signal) from the tag reading device 10.

[0054] The host device 11 is an information processing terminal having a communication function with the tag reading device 10. For example, the host device 11 is an information processing terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet PC having a display device with a touch panel as a user interface. In addition, the host device 11 can be any device as long as it has a communication interface that can communicate with the tag reading device, and can also be an information processing device set at a specified location.

[0055] exist Figure 1In the illustrated configuration example, the host device 11 includes a processor (second processor) 12 , a memory 13 , a communication interface (I / F) (second communication interface) 14 , a display 15 , an input device 16 , and the like.

[0056] The processor 12 performs control of each part and data processing. The processor 12 is, for example, a CPU. In the host device 11, various actions are implemented by the processor 12 executing the program stored in the memory 13. For example, the processor 12 detects the position of the RFID tag or the change in the relative position of the tag reading device 10 and the RFID tag based on the reading result of the RFID tag obtained from the tag reading device 10. These processes are implemented by the processor 12 executing the application installed in the memory 13.

[0057] The communication interface (I / F) 14 is an interface for communicating with an external device. In the present embodiment, the communication I / F 14 is an interface (second communication interface) for communicating with the tag reading device 10. The communication I / F 14 can be any interface as long as it corresponds to the communication function of the tag reading device 10. The communication I / F 14 can be an interface for wired communication or an interface for wireless communication. For example, the communication I / F 14 is implemented by a LAN interface, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) interface, or a Wifi interface.

[0058] The display 15 is a device for displaying information. For example, the display 15 displays the detection result of the RFID tag (for example, the movement of the RFID tag), etc. The input device 16 is a device for the operator to input operation instructions, etc. The display 15 and the input device 16 are composed of, for example, a display device with a touch panel.

[0059] Next, the configuration of the tag reading device 10 according to the embodiment will be described.

[0060] exist Figure 1 In the illustrated configuration example, the tag reading device 10 includes a processor (first processor) 21 , ROM 22 , RAM 23 , a communication control circuit 24 , an antenna 25 , a communication interface (I / F) (first communication interface) 26 , a display 27 , a power supply 28 , and a data storage device 29 .

[0061] The processor 21 controls each part. The processor 21 includes, for example, a computing circuit such as a CPU. The processor 21 implements the control of each part and various data processing by executing a program. In addition, the processor 21 may also have an internal memory. The processor 21 implements various processing by executing a program stored in the ROM 22 or the internal memory. For example, the processor 21 interprets the instruction received from the host device 11 through the communication I / F 26 and executes the processing according to the instruction.

[0062] ROM22 is a non-volatile memory that cannot be rewritten. ROM22 stores programs executed by processor 21, etc. RAM23 is a volatile memory that temporarily stores data. For example, RAM23 has a function as a working memory or a cache memory. RAM23 has a cache memory that stores the reading results of RFID tags.

[0063] The communication control circuit 24 and the antenna 25 constitute an RFID interface for reading RFID tags.

[0064] The communication control circuit 24 includes a control circuit for communicating with the RFID tag via the antenna 25. The communication control circuit 24 causes the transmission signal (radio wave) supplied from the processor 21 to be transmitted from the antenna 25 with a set output value. The antenna 25 outputs the transmission signal supplied from the communication control circuit 24 as a radio wave receivable by the RFID tag.

[0065] In addition, the communication control circuit 24 not only outputs a transmission signal to the antenna 25, but also supplies the signal received by the antenna 25 as reception data to the processor 21. That is, the communication control circuit 24 receives a response signal from the RFID through the antenna 25, processes the response signal (reception signal) received by the antenna 25, and supplies it to the processor 21. For example, the communication control circuit 24 supplies the tag information included in the reception signal from the RFID tag and the RSSI value indicating the strength of the reception signal to the processor 21.

[0066] The communication I / F 26 is an interface for communicating with an external device. In the tag reading system 1, the communication I / F 26 is a communication interface (first communication interface) for communicating with the host device 11. The communication I / F 26 can be any interface as long as it is used for communication connection with the host device 11. The communication I / F 26 can be an interface for wired communication or an interface for wireless communication. For example, the communication I / F 26 is implemented by a LAN interface, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) interface, or a Wifi interface.

[0067] The display 27 is a display device that displays the operating state of the RFID tag. The display 27 is composed of, for example, an LED or the like.

[0068] The power supply 28 supplies power for operating the tag reading device 10. The power supply 28 supplies power for operation to each part of the tag reading device 10. For example, if the tag reading device 10 is a handheld device, the power supply 28 is implemented by a rechargeable battery. In addition, if the tag reading device is a fixed device that can be connected to a commercial power supply, the power supply 28 is composed of a power supply circuit connected to the commercial power supply.

[0069] The data memory 29 is a rewritable nonvolatile memory. The data memory 29 stores setting values ​​for various processes. The setting values ​​stored in the data memory 29 are information that can be updated according to the operation mode, etc. The data memory 29 can also store application programs, etc. In addition, the data memory 29 can store information such as processing results that should be retained even after power is turned off.

[0070] In addition, the tag reading device 10 may also have a timer for measuring time. For example, the timer measures the time from stopping the reading action (outputting the output signal) to starting the next reading action. The processor 21 may also use the timer to detect that the pause time from stopping the reading action to starting the next reading action has reached the reading interval.

[0071] In addition, Figure 1 In the configuration example shown, the communication control circuit 24 has a modulation unit (modulation circuit) 41, a transmitting side amplifier (amplifier circuit) 42, a directional coupler (coupler) 43, a receiving side amplifier (amplifier circuit) 44, a demodulation unit (demodulation circuit) 45 and an output setting unit (output level setting circuit) 46, etc.

[0072] The modulation unit 41 is a modulation circuit that modulates a waveform signal (carrier) with input data. The modulation unit 41 modulates the carrier with the transmission data given from the processor 21. The transmission side amplifier 42 is an amplifier circuit that amplifies the signal to be input. The transmission side amplifier 42 amplifies the output signal of the modulation unit 41. The directional coupler 43 includes a circuit that supplies the output signal of the transmission side amplifier 42 to the antenna 25. In this way, the communication control circuit 24 outputs the carrier modulated with the transmission data from the antenna 25.

[0073] The RFID tag receives radio waves transmitted from the antenna 25. The RFID tag recognizes, for example, a read command included in the signal received from the antenna 25. When recognizing the read command, the RFID tag outputs the data (tag information) stored in its own memory using radio waves, for example, by backscatter modulation.

[0074] The antenna 25 receives the radio waves output by the RFID tag. The directional coupler 43 includes a circuit that obtains the received signal received by the antenna 25 and supplies the obtained received signal to the receiving side amplifier 44. The receiving side amplifier 44 is an amplifier circuit that amplifies the signal to be input. The receiving side amplifier 44 amplifies the received signal received by the antenna 25. The demodulator 45 is a demodulator circuit that demodulates the data overlapped with the waveform signal (carrier). The demodulator 45 demodulates the data (tag information) contained in the received signal amplified by the receiving side amplifier 44.

[0075] Antenna 25 can be any antenna that transmits and receives radio waves to and from an RFID tag. In other words, antenna 25 can be any antenna that transmits a signal supplied to an RFID tag and receives radio waves output by the RFID tag. In the present embodiment, antenna 25 is configured to transmit electromagnetic waves toward a reading area. The tag reading device 10 is configured to communicate with the RFID tags attached to all commodities configured in the reading area through antenna 25. Antenna 25 is, for example, a planar antenna. However, antenna 25 is not limited to a specified configuration.

[0076] The output setting unit 46 is a setting circuit for setting the intensity (output value) of the signal to be output. The output setting unit 46 controls the intensity of the signal output to the amplifier 42 so as to become the output value to be set. The amplifier 42 amplifies the signal supplied from the modulator 41 so as to become the output value set by the output setting unit 46, and then outputs it to the coupler 43. In this way, the antenna 25 transmits the output signal (radio wave) of the output value set by the output setting unit 46 supplied from the amplifier 42 through the coupler 43.

[0077] Next, an example of operation of the tag reading system 1 according to the embodiment will be described.

[0078] Figure 2 This is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of a search system 101 as an application example of the tag reading system 1 according to the embodiment.

[0079] The search system 101 as the tag reading system 1 is a system for searching for a specified RFID tag (RFID tag attached to a specified commodity) T in a search area. For example, when searching for a specified commodity in a warehouse and / or a store, the search system 101 estimates the position of the RFID tag attached to the commodity based on the reading result of the RFID tag T read by the tag reading device 110. The search system 101 informs the operator of the position of the RFID tag estimated based on the reading result of the RFID tag T. In this way, the search system 101 can support the operation of finding the commodity with the RFID tag attached that is specified by the operator.

[0080] As Figure 2 The search system 101 of the tag reading system 1 shown includes a handheld tag reading device 110 and a host device 111 connected to the tag reading device 110. Figure 2 In the configuration example shown, the tag reading device 110 is Figure 1 In the modified example of the tag reading device 10 shown in FIG. 1 , the host device 111 is Figure 1 A modified example of the host device 11 is shown.

[0081] Figure 2 The tag reading device 110 shown in FIG. Figure 1 In addition to the structure of the control system shown in the figure, there are a gripping unit 121 gripped by an operator and a holding unit 122 holding the host device 111. The tag reading device 110 is operated by the operator holding the gripping unit 121 in a state where the host device 111 is placed on the holding unit 122. For example, the operator moves the tag reading device 110 to change the communication range (reading range of the RFID tag) R and searches within the search area until the desired RFID tag T is detected.

[0082] In addition, the host device 111 has Figure 1 The control system shown in the figure has a display device 131 with a touch panel as a display 15 and an input device 16. For example, the host device 111 is implemented by a portable information terminal such as a smart phone or a tablet PC. The host device 111 notifies the operator of the position of the RFID tag T estimated based on the reading result of the RFID tag by the tag reading device 110.

[0083] The search system 101 searches for RFID tags T by moving the tag reading device 110 in a state where the host device 111 is placed. In the search system 101, the tag reading device 110 reads RFID tags at a predetermined reading interval in the communication range R that changes as the operator moves. The tag reading device 110 supplies the reading results of the RFID tags in the communication range that changes according to the operator's operation to the host device 111. The tag reading device 110 supplies the tag information (ID) such as EPC, the RSSI value of the received signal, and the output value during the reading operation to the host device 111 as the reading results of each RFID tag.

[0084] The host device 111 detects the expected reading result of the RFID tag from the tag reading device 110 based on the reading result of the RFID tag T. The host device 111 estimates the position of the RFID tag T based on the expected reading result of the RFID tag T. For example, the host device 111 detects the position of the RFID tag T and / or the change in the relative position of the tag reading device 110 and the RFID tag based on the minimum output value included in the reading result of the RFID tag. The host device 111 displays information indicating the position of the RFID tag T estimated based on the reading result of the RFID tag T, etc., on the display device 131 with a touch panel.

[0085] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing a display example of a search result of an RFID tag displayed by a host device 111 in a search system 101 as an example of operation of the tag reading system 1 according to the embodiment.

[0086] As described above, in the search system 101, the host device 111 estimates the position of the designated RFID tag based on the reading result of the RFID tag by the tag reading device 110. The host device 111 detects the position of the designated RFID tag as a relative position to the tag reading device 110. The host device 111 displays information indicating the position of the designated RFID tag on the display device 131 as a search result of the designated RFID tag.

[0087] exist Figure 3 In the display example shown, the display device 131 displays the reading range 202 read by the tag reading device 110 on the concentric circle 201 centered at the position of the tag reading device 110. For example, the display device 131 displays the reading range 202 on the concentric circle 201 in such a manner that the top is the front (reading direction) of the tag reading device 110. In this way, the direction of the tag reading device 110 and the display direction can be intuitively recognized.

[0088] In addition, the display device 131 displays a mark 203 indicating the position of the read RFID tag within the reading range 202 on the concentric circle 201. For example, the host device 111 estimates the relative position from the tag reader 110 to the RFID tag based on the RSSI value and the output value included in the reading result from the tag reader 110. The display device 131 can inform the distance from the tag reader 110 to the RFID tag by displaying the mark 203 on the concentric circle 201 centered on the position of the tag reader 110. In addition, the display device 131 can inform the operator of the direction in which the RFID tag exists by displaying the mark 203 on the reading range 202.

[0089] In addition, Figure 3In the example display shown, the display device 131 also displays the product number 211 and the serial number 212 of the RFID tag to be searched. In this way, the operator can easily confirm that the RFID tag is the search object. Figure 3 In the display example shown, the display device 131 displays a search start button 231 and an end button 232. The search start button 231 and the end button 232 are buttons that the operator can instruct on the touch panel as the input device 16. The search start button 231 is a button for the operator to instruct the start of the search for RFID tags. The end button 232 is a button for the operator to instruct the end of the search for RFID tags. The operator is viewing Figure 3 By operating the tag reader 110 while viewing the screen as shown, it is possible to search for RFID tags.

[0090] Next, the reading result of the RFID tag stored in the RAM 23 by the tag reading device 10 will be described.

[0091] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing an example in which the reading result obtained by the tag reading device 10 according to the embodiment is stored in the RAM 23 .

[0092] The processor 21 associates the tag information (ID) of the RFID tag and the minimum output value as the reading result of the RFID tag and stores them in the RAM 23. After the RAM 23 stores the tag information and the output value read from the specified RFID tag, when the output value is changed and the RFID tag is read again, the minimum output value is updated. Therefore, in the RAM 23, the tag information and the minimum output value of the RFID tag are stored as the result of reading the output value of the output signal of the specified RFID tag.

[0093] The minimum output value is the minimum value (minimum output value) at which the RFID tag can be read in the intensity (output value) of the output signal (radio wave) output from the antenna 25. The output value is set by the output setting unit 46 of the communication control circuit 24 according to the instruction from the processor 21. Therefore, the processor 21 can change the output value of the output signal and repeatedly read the specified RFID tag. For example, the processor 21 can specify the minimum output value by repeatedly performing the reading operation of the specified RFID tag while decreasing the output value in stages.

[0094] The tag information is information outputted from the RFID tag in response to a response request (reading command) from the tag reading device 10. The tag information includes, for example, a title, a product code, and a serial number.

[0095] The header is information indicating the format of the label information and / or the range of the commodity code in the label information.

[0096] The product code (EPC (Electronic Product Code) data) is information for specifying a product (article). The product code is, for example, a SKU (Stock Keeping Unit) code, a JAN (Japanese Article Number) code, or an EAN (European Article Number) code.

[0097] In addition, the serial number is an identification number for individually identifying each item (commodity). The serial number does not need to be different for two commodities that are classified as the same commodity. That is, commodities (articles) with RFID tags can be managed not only as commodity classifications, but also as individual commodities by serial numbers.

[0098] Hereinafter, the operation of the tag reading system 1 according to the embodiment will be described.

[0099] First, the operation of the tag reading device 10 according to the embodiment will be described.

[0100] Figure 5 This is a flowchart for explaining an operation example of the tag reading device 10 according to the embodiment.

[0101] The processor 21 of the tag reading device 10 starts the continuous reading process (search process) of the RFID tag according to the instruction from the host device 11 connected through the communication I / F 26. Here, the tag reading device 10 obtains (receives) information indicating the RFID tag as the reading object (search object) and the specified value (output setting value) of the output value of the output signal for the reading operation from the host device 11.

[0102] In this way, the processor 12 of the host device 11 sends a command requesting continuous reading including the specified value of the output value and the information indicating the RFID tag to be read to the tag reading device 10. Since the host device 11 specifies the output value, it is possible to specify the output value of the RFID tag that the tag reading device 10 can read. That is, the tag reading device 10 can start reading according to the output value of the RFID tag that can be read. Therefore, there is no need to repeat reading with an output value that cannot be read, and the processing of specifying the minimum output value can be effectively performed.

[0103] When the processor 21 of the tag reading device 10 starts the continuous reading process of the RFID tag, it sets the output value a of the output signal for the reading action to the specified value PWR (ACT11) specified by the host device 11. For example, the processor 21 stores a value representing the output value a for the reading action in a register. In addition, the processor 21 indicates the output value a stored in the register to the output setting unit 46. In this way, the communication control circuit 24 is controlled in such a way that the output signal output from the antenna 25 becomes the output value a as the specified indication value PWR.

[0104] Furthermore, the processor 21 sets a filter based on information indicating the RFID tag to be read (searched) designated by the host device 11 (ACT 12). The processor 21 executes a reading operation for the RFID tag designated by the host device 11 by setting the filter.

[0105] When a filter for specifying the RFID tag to be read is set, the processor 21 starts the RFID tag reading operation with the set output value a (ACT13). After starting the RFID tag reading operation, the processor 21 determines whether the RFID tag to be read can be read by the output signal of the output value a output from the antenna 25 (ACT14). The processor 21 determines that the RFID tag has been read when a response signal from the RFID tag to be read is received through the antenna 25 in response to the output signal output with the output value a.

[0106] When receiving a response signal including tag information from the RFID tag, that is, when the RFID tag can be read (NO in ACT 14), the processor 21 determines whether the read RFID tag is a duplicate read (whether the reading has been completed) (ACT 15). For example, if the tag information identical to the read tag information is stored in the RAM 23, the processor 21 determines that it is a duplicate read, otherwise it determines that it is not a duplicate read.

[0107] When it is determined that it is not a repeated read (NO in ACT15), the processor 21 associates the output value (current output value) a when the RFID tag is read with the tag information contained in the response signal received from the RFID tag and saves it in RAM23 (ACT16). Here, the processor 21 only needs to associate the output value a held by the register with the tag information and store it. After saving the tag information and the output value, the processor 21 proceeds to ACT19. When the output value is saved in RAM23 (save the output value), the processor 21 controls the output value of the output signal used for the reading action to decrease (ACT19). Details will be described later.

[0108] In addition, when it is determined that the reading is repeated (YES in ACT16), the processor 21 determines whether the current output value a is less than the saved output value corresponding to the tag information of the RFID tag (ACT17). Here, the current output value a is the output value when the RFID tag is read, and is the output value maintained by the register. The saved output value is the output value associated with the tag information of the RFID tag and stored in the RAM 23. For example, the processor 21 detects the output value (saved output value) saved in association with the tag information of the RFID tag. The processor 21 determines whether the current output value a is less than the saved output value.

[0109] When it is determined that the current output value a is greater than or equal to the saved output value (NO in ACT 17), the processor 21 does not update the saved output value saved in the RAM 23, but proceeds to ACT 20. The saved output value is an output value that saves the minimum output value that can read the RFID tag by changing the output value. Therefore, if the current output value a is greater than or equal to the saved output value, there is no need to update the saved output value saved in the RAM.

[0110] When it is determined that the current output value a is less than the saved output value (YES in ACT17), the processor 21 updates the output value saved in association with the tag information of the RFID tag in RAM 23 to the current output value (ACT18). For example, the processor 21 rewrites the output value saved in association with the tag information of the RFID tag to the output value a held by the register.

[0111] In addition, when the stored output value stored in RAM 23 is updated, the processor 21 performs control to reduce the output value of the output signal for the reading action (ACT 19). For example, the processor 21 reduces the output value corresponding to the preset fluctuation range (decreasing range) b. At this time, the processor 21 reduces the output value a corresponding to the fluctuation range b by setting the output value a held by the register as ab (a=ab). The fluctuation range b can also be set appropriately. For example, the fluctuation range b is stored in advance in the data memory 29. In this way, the processor 21 can set the fluctuation range b stored in the data memory 29. After reducing the output value of the output signal based on the fluctuation range, the processor 21 proceeds to ACT 20.

[0112] In addition, when the RFID tag cannot be read (NO in ACT14), the processor 21 performs control to increase the output value a of the output signal for the reading action (ACT26). For example, the processor 21 increases the output value a corresponding to the pre-set fluctuation amplitude (increase amplitude) c. That is, the processor 21 increases the output value a corresponding to the fluctuation amplitude c by taking the output value a held by the register as a+c. Here, the fluctuation amplitude c can also be appropriately set. For example, the fluctuation amplitude c is stored in the data memory 29. In this way, the processor 21 can set the fluctuation amplitude c stored in the data memory 29.

[0113] In addition, the fluctuation amplitude b and the fluctuation amplitude c may be the same value or different values. In addition, the fluctuation amplitude b and the fluctuation amplitude c may be set in multiple types corresponding to various conditions. When the fluctuation amplitude b and the fluctuation amplitude c are set in multiple types corresponding to various conditions, the processor 21 can change the output value with the fluctuation amplitude b or the fluctuation amplitude c that meets the conditions.

[0114] Furthermore, when the processor 21 increases the output value a, it determines whether the increased output value a exceeds the specified value PWR as the output setting value (ACT27). When the increased output value a does not exceed the specified value PWR (NO in ACT27), the processor 21 maintains the output value a at the increased value and proceeds to ACT20. Furthermore, when the increased output value a exceeds the specified value PWR (YES in ACT27), the processor 21 updates the output value a to the specified value PWR (ACT28) and proceeds to ACT20. In this way, the processor 21 can change the output value a within the range of the specified value PWR specified by the host device 11.

[0115] Furthermore, when it is determined in ACT 27 that the output value a exceeds the specified value PWR, the processor 21 may terminate the continuous reading and not send the minimum output value stored in the RAM 23 to the host device 11. This can prevent unnecessary minimum output value specifying processing.

[0116] In addition, when it is determined in ACT 14 that the RFID tag cannot be read, the processor 21 may also determine whether the tag information identical to the read tag information is stored in the RAM 23. If it is stored, it is determined that the minimum output value for the RFID tag can be specified. Moreover, the continuous reading may be terminated, and a notification indicating that the minimum output value has been specified may be sent to the upper device 11. In this way, useless minimum output value specification processing can be prevented. In addition, the upper device 11 may be notified that the minimum output value has been specified.

[0117] When receiving a notification indicating that the minimum output value has been specified, the processor 12 of the host device 11 may also send a request to send the reading result (equivalent to a request to send the minimum output value) to the tag reading device 10. In this way, when the minimum output value has been specified, the minimum output value can be quickly received from the tag reading device 10.

[0118] In ACT 20, the processor 21 determines whether to send the reading result of the RFID tag stored in the RAM 23 to the host device 11 (ACT 20). For example, the processor 21 determines to output the reading result stored in the RAM 23 according to the transmission request of the reading result from the host device 11.

[0119] When it is determined that the reading result of the RFID tag is to be sent (YES in ACT 20), the processor 21 sends the reading result of the RFID tag including the tag information stored in the RAM 23 and the saved output value (minimum output value) to the host device 11. Here, the saved output value stored in the RAM 23 is the minimum output value at the current time point. That is, the processor 21 notifies the host device 11 of the minimum output value together with the read tag information.

[0120] In addition, the processor 21 receives an instruction (output setting instruction) (ACT22) from the host device 11 requesting the setting of an output value during the continuous reading process. When the output value setting instruction is received (YES in ACT22), the processor 21 updates the output value a held by the register to the specified value (output setting value) specified by the instruction (ACT23). For example, when the output value setting instruction indicating that the output value a is set to the specified value PWRa is received, the processor 21 rewrites the output value a held by the register to a=PWRa. In this way, whenever the processor 21 receives an output setting instruction from the host device 11, it updates the output value a to the specified value (output setting value) specified by the instruction.

[0121] Furthermore, the processor 21 determines whether to terminate the continuous reading (search process) (ACT 23). For example, when the processor 21 receives a command from the host device 11 requesting termination of the continuous reading, it determines to terminate the continuous reading.

[0122] When continuous reading is not completed, that is, when the reading action is performed again (NO in ACT24), the processor 21 returns to ACT13 and performs the above-mentioned action again. In addition, when continuous reading is completed (YES in ACT24), the processor 21 stops the reading action of the RFID tag (ACT25) and completes continuous reading.

[0123] According to the above-mentioned actions, the tag reading device involved in the embodiment specifies the minimum output value of the output signal that can read the RFID tag, and sends the specified minimum output value to the host device. That is, the tag reading device repeats the reading action of the RFID tag while changing the output value of the output signal output from the antenna in stages through the communication control circuit. When the tag reading device reads the RFID tag, it associates the output value of the output signal when the RFID tag is read with the tag information of the RFID tag and saves it in the memory as a saved output value. If the output value of the tag reading device when reading the specified RFID tag again is less than the saved output value, the saved output value saved in the memory in association with the tag information is updated. The tag reading device notifies the host device of the saved output value stored in the memory as the minimum output value that can read the RFID tag.

[0124] In this way, the tag reading device involved in the embodiment can change the output value and specify the minimum output value according to the result of reading the RFID tag even if there is no instruction from the host device to change the output value. At this time, the tag reading device does not wait for the instruction from the host device, but can implement the processing of specifying the minimum output value according to the result of reading the RFID tag, and can specify the minimum output value at high speed. In addition, the tag reading device can provide the host device with information indicating the minimum output value that can read the RFID tag. Therefore, according to the tag reading device involved in the embodiment, the processing load in the host device can be reduced.

[0125] Next, the operation of the host device 11 according to the embodiment will be described.

[0126] Figure 6 This is a flowchart for explaining an operation example of the host device 11 according to the embodiment.

[0127] In the standby state, the processor 12 of the host device 11 waits for an instruction to start continuous reading (ACT 31). For example, the processor 12 of the host device 11 starts continuous reading according to an instruction from an operator. Specifically, when the operator instructs Figure 3 When the search start button 231 is pressed, the processor 12 starts continuous reading of the RFID tag for searching the RFID tag.

[0128] When continuous reading is started, the processor 12 determines (decides) a specified value PWR as an output setting value of the output of the designated tag reading device 10 in the reading operation (ACT32). For example, the specified value PWR as the output setting value is determined based on the operator's designation. In addition, when continuous reading is started, the specified value PWR can also be used as a default setting value.

[0129] Furthermore, the processor 12 determines the RFID tag as the reading object (search object) to be read continuously (ACT 33). For example, the processor 12 uses the RFID tag attached to the commodity (article) specified by the operator as the reading object. At this time, the processor 12 specifies the commodity code (EPC) recorded in the RFID tag attached to the specified commodity, and specifies the RFID tag as the reading object.

[0130] When the designated value PWR of the output value a and the RFID tag to be read are determined, the processor 12 requests the tag reader 10 to continuously read the designated value PWR and the RFID tag to be read (ACT 34). For example, the processor 12 sends a command requesting continuous reading including the designated value PWR of the output value and information indicating the RFID tag to be read to the tag reader 10.

[0131] After requesting continuous reading, the processor 12 requests the tag reader 10 to send the RFID tag reading result (ACT 36) when the reading result of the RFID tag is needed (YES in ACT 35). For example, the processor 12 requests the reading result by supplying a command requesting the reading result to the tag reader 10.

[0132] The processor 12 obtains the reading result of the RFID tag sent from the tag reading device 10 according to the sending request (ACT 37). As described above, the reading result of the RFID tag obtained from the tag reading device 10 includes the tag information and the minimum output value that can read the RFID tag. When the reading result is obtained from the tag reading device 10, the processor 12 specifies the information that should be displayed as the reading result (search result) of the RFID tag according to the obtained reading result. And the display 15 displays it. For example, when the display Figure 3 When the information shown is displayed, the processor 12 estimates the position of the read RFID tag based on the position of the tag reading device 10 and displays it on the display device 131 as the display 15.

[0133] In addition, the processor 12 can request the tag reader 10 to set the output setting value during continuous reading (ACT 39). For example, the processor 12 determines whether the output setting value needs to be specified based on the operator's instructions. In addition, when the processor 12 obtains the reading result of the RFID tag, it can also execute the setting of the output value based on the obtained reading result.

[0134] When the output setting value is designated (YES in ACT 39), the processor 12 determines the set output value (ACT 40). For example, the processor 12 determines whether to change the designated value based on the minimum output value included in the reading result obtained from the tag reading device 10. As a specific example, the processor 12 can change the output setting value to the minimum output value, or use a value calculated based on the minimum output value as the output setting value.

[0135] When the output setting value specified for the tag reading device 10 is determined, the processor 12 generates an output value setting instruction that specifies the specified value PWR as the determined output setting value, and sends the generated output value setting instruction to the tag reading device 10 (ACT 41). In this way, in the tag reading device 10, the specified value PWR as the output setting value specified by the output value setting instruction is set as the output value a.

[0136] In addition, the processor 12 receives an indication of the end of the continuous reading. Figure 3 When the end button 232 shown is pressed, it is determined that the continuous reading is ended. When the continuous reading is ended (YES in ACT42), the processor 12 instructs the tag reading device 10 to end the continuous reading (ACT43). For example, the processor 12 sends an end instruction to the tag reading device 10 to instruct the end of the continuous reading. According to the end instruction, the tag reading device 10 ends the continuous reading of the RFID tag.

[0137] As described above, in the tag reading system involved in the embodiment, the tag reading device specifies the minimum output value of the output signal that can read the RFID tag and notifies the host device. The host device obtains the minimum output value that can read the RFID tag from the tag reading device and requests the tag reading device to set the output according to the minimum output value.

[0138] In addition, in the tag reading system involved in the embodiment, the tag reading device reads the RFID tag by changing the output value of the output signal in stages based on the output setting value specified by the host device. The tag reading device specifies the minimum output value that can read the RFID tag based on the result of reading the RFID tag by changing the output value in stages. The tag reading device sends the minimum output value that can read the RFID tag together with the tag information read from the RFID tag to the host device.

[0139] In the above-mentioned tag reading system involved in the embodiment, the tag reading device can change the output value and specify the minimum output value that can read the RFID tag in the implementation even if there is no instruction to change the output value from the host device. As a result, the tag reading system can quickly specify the minimum output value that can read the RFID tag of the reading object in the continuous reading process (search process), and the processing of the host device can also be accelerated. Furthermore, since the tag reading device specifies the minimum output value that can read the RFID tag, the processing program installed in the host device can be simplified.

[0140] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiments, the case where the memory in the device pre-stores the program executed by the processor is described. However, the program executed by the processor can be downloaded from the network to the device, or installed in the device from a storage medium. As a storage medium, any storage medium that can store programs and can be read by the device can be used. In addition, the functions obtained by pre-installation or downloading can also be realized in cooperation with the OS (operating system) inside the device.

[0141] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments may be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and changes may be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are all included in the scope or gist of the invention, and are also included in the invention described in the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A label reading device, characterized in that: include: antenna; a communication control circuit for controlling an output signal output from the antenna and a reception signal received by the antenna; Communication interface, to communicate with the host device; as well as The processor uses the antenna and the communication control circuit to specify a minimum output value of an output signal that can read a specified RFID tag, and sends the minimum output value to the host device through the communication interface. wherein the processor starts a continuous reading process according to an instruction from the upper device connected via the communication interface, and in the continuous reading process, changes the output value of the output signal; Furthermore, the device further comprises: a storage unit for storing tag information and output values ​​of the RFID tag; When the processor reads the RFID tag, it determines whether it is a repeated read. When it is determined that it is not a repeated read, the processor associates the current output value with the tag information received from the RFID tag and stores it in the storage unit. When it is determined that it is a repeated read, if the current output value is less than the output value of the storage unit, the output value of the storage unit is updated to the current output value.

2. The tag reading device according to claim 1, wherein: The communication control circuit changes the output value of the output signal output from the antenna in stages to read the RFID tag. The processor specifies the minimum output value based on a reading result of the RFID tag when the communication control circuit changes in a stepwise manner an output value of an output signal output from the antenna.

3. The tag reading device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The processor sends the minimum output value together with the tag information read from the RFID tag to the host device through the communication interface.

4. The tag reading device according to claim 1, wherein: The processor receives a designated value of an output value from a host device through the communication interface.

5. The tag reading device according to claim 4, wherein: The processor specifies the minimum output value within a range not exceeding the received specified value.

6. The tag reading device according to claim 1, wherein: When the minimum output value is specified, the processor transmits a notification indicating that the minimum output value has been specified to the host device through the communication interface.

7. The tag reading device according to claim 2, wherein: When the minimum output value has been specified, the processor ends reading.

8. A tag reading system, comprising a tag reading device and a host device, wherein the tag reading system is characterized in that: The label reading device comprises: antenna; a communication control circuit for processing an output signal output from the antenna and a signal received by the antenna; A first communication interface, for communicating with the host device; as well as The first processor uses the antenna and the communication control circuit to specify a minimum output value of an output signal that can read a specified RFID tag, and sends the minimum output value to the host device through the first communication interface. The host device comprises: a second communication interface for communicating with the tag reading device; and a second processor, using the second communication interface to obtain from the tag reading device a minimum output value of an output signal capable of reading the RFID tag; wherein the first processor starts a continuous reading process according to an instruction from the upper device connected via the first communication interface, and in the continuous reading process, changes the output value of the output signal; The label reading device further includes: a storage unit for storing tag information and output values ​​of RFID tags, When the first processor reads the RFID tag, it determines whether it is a repeated reading. When it is determined that it is not a repeated read, the current output value is associated with the tag information received from the RFID tag and stored in the storage unit. When it is determined that it is a repeated read, if the current output value is less than the output value of the storage unit, the output value of the storage unit is updated to the current output value.

9. The tag reading system according to claim 8, wherein: The communication control circuit of the tag reading device changes the output value of the output signal output from the antenna in stages based on the output setting value specified by the host device to read the RFID tag. The first processor of the tag reading device specifies the minimum output value based on the reading result of the RFID tag when the communication control circuit causes the output value of the output signal output from the antenna to change in stages, and sends the minimum output value together with the tag information read from the RFID tag to the host device through the first communication interface, The second processor of the host device specifies, to the tag reading device, an output setting value of an output signal output from the antenna for reading the RFID tag based on the minimum output value acquired from the tag reading device using the second communication interface.

10. The tag reading system according to claim 8, wherein: When the minimum output value has been specified, the first processor sends a notification indicating that the minimum output value has been specified to the host device through the first communication interface, and when a request for sending the minimum output value is received from the host device through the first communication interface, the first processor sends the minimum output value to the host device through the first communication interface. When the second processor receives the notification indicating that the minimum output value has been designated through the second communication interface, the second processor transmits the transmission request of the minimum output value to the tag reading device through the second communication interface.

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