Printer apparatus, article management apparatus, and storage medium

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides a printer apparatus, an article management apparatus, and a storage medium which output search results obtained by investigating RFID tags located in a distance where direct communication cannot be performed by an operating apparatus unit. A printer apparatus according to an embodiment includes a user interface, a wireless communication module, a printing unit, and a control unit. The user interface accepts input of search information from a user. The wireless communication module constructs a mesh network with a plurality of external devices. The printing unit prints information on a sheet. The control unit performs, for each node of a communication path from the local node to the end node of the mesh network, an operation of acquiring a search result based on search information by controlling a tag reader or a wireless communication module that receives information from a nearby RFID tag, and an operation of printing the search result by controlling the printing unit.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to Japanese application No. JP2024-172693, filed on October 1, 2024, and incorporates the contents of the aforementioned application in their entirety. Technical Field

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a printer device, an item management device, and a storage medium. Background Technology

[0003] There are known devices, methods, and storage media for detecting the location of RFID tags via a wireless relay system. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of the above problems, the present invention aims to provide a printer device, an item management device, and a storage medium for outputting search results, wherein the search results are obtained by investigating RFID tags located at a distance from which the operating device cannot directly communicate.

[0005] To address the aforementioned problems, the printer device of this embodiment includes a user interface, a wireless communication module, a printing unit, and a control unit. The user interface receives search information input from a user. The wireless communication module establishes a mesh network with multiple external devices. The printing unit prints information on paper. The control unit executes actions at each node along the communication path from its own node to the end node in the mesh network, controlling a tag reader or wireless communication module to receive information from nearby RFID tags to obtain search results based on the search information, and controlling the printing unit to print the search results.

[0006] According to the aforementioned printer device, search results can be printed from the printer being operated by the user, even for distant RFID tags that cannot be detected by the printer being operated. Therefore, the user does not need to walk around in a wide area; they can obtain search results simply by operating the nearest printer.

[0007] In the printer device described above, the control unit controls the printing unit to print the search results in the order of the communication path from the local node to the end node.

[0008] The printer device described above can instruct the user on a route to retrieve items along the communication path. Therefore, the user can retrieve desired items without having to walk unnecessary distances.

[0009] In the printer device described above, the control unit controls the printing unit to also print undetected information that is not included in any of the search results in the search information.

[0010] The printer device described above can notify the user of search items not included in the inventory.

[0011] In the printer device described above, the control unit controls the printing unit to print the group names associated with each of the devices together with the search results.

[0012] The aforementioned printer device can more clearly convey search results to users.

[0013] Another aspect of the present invention provides an item management device comprising: a user interface for receiving search information input from a user; a wireless communication module for constructing a mesh network with multiple external devices; an output unit for outputting information to the outside; and a control unit for controlling a tag reader or the wireless communication module that receives information from a nearby RFID tag to obtain search results based on the search information, and controlling the output unit to output the search results, for each node in the communication path from the local node to the end node of the mesh network.

[0014] According to the aforementioned item management device, search results can be output from the item management device being operated by the user, enabling investigation of distant RFID tags that cannot be detected by the device itself. Therefore, users do not need to walk around in a large space; they can obtain search results simply by operating the nearest printer.

[0015] In the aforementioned item management device, the output unit is a display.

[0016] The aforementioned item management device can display search results on a monitor.

[0017] In the aforementioned item management device, the control unit controls the display to execute the display of search results in the order of the communication path from the local node to the end node.

[0018] The aforementioned item management device can instruct users on a route to retrieve items along the communication path. Therefore, users can retrieve desired items without having to walk unnecessary distances.

[0019] In the aforementioned item management device, the control unit controls the display to also display undetected information that is not included in any of the search results in the search information.

[0020] The aforementioned item management device can notify users of search items not included in the inventory.

[0021] In the aforementioned item management device, the control unit displays a QR code on the display screen that allows access to search results.

[0022] Based on the aforementioned item management device, search results can be obtained using the user's portable terminal, etc.

[0023] Another aspect of the present invention is a storage medium storing a control program for an item management device that causes the processor of the item management device to perform the following actions: controlling a tag reader that receives information from nearby RFID tags or a wireless communication module that constructs a grid network with multiple external devices to obtain search results based on search information for each node in the communication path from the local node to the end node of the grid network; and controlling the output unit to output the search results, wherein the search information is information input via a user interface.

[0024] Based on the aforementioned storage medium, the following function can be provided to the item management device: search results can be output from the item management device being operated by the user, which can also be obtained by investigating distant RFID tags that cannot be detected from the item management device being operated by the user. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating a structural example of an item management device according to an embodiment.

[0026] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the structure of an example of an item management device.

[0027] Figure 3 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the structure of the software of an item management device according to an embodiment.

[0028] Figure 4 This is a configuration diagram illustrating an example of the use of the item management device in a store.

[0029] Figure 5 This is a table representing an example of a path DB stored in the memory of the item management device in the embodiment.

[0030] Figure 6 This is an example of a setup screen for an item management device according to an embodiment.

[0031] Figure 7 This is a table showing an example of the settings configured in the item management device of the embodiment.

[0032] Figure 8 This is an example of the standby screen of the item management device according to an embodiment.

[0033] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the search operation of the item management device in an embodiment.

[0034] Figure 10This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the search operation of the item management device in this embodiment.

[0035] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the search operation of the item management device in this embodiment.

[0036] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the search operation of the item management device in this embodiment.

[0037] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a search title input screen for an item management device according to an embodiment.

[0038] Figure 14 This is a table representing an example of a search database created by the item management device in this embodiment.

[0039] Figure 15 This is a table representing an example of an inventory database created by the item management device in this embodiment.

[0040] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a printout output by the item management device of an embodiment.

[0041] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0042] 100…Item management device, 101…Processor, 102…Bus, 103…RAM, 104…Memory, 105…Wireless communication module, 106…User interface, 107…Cutting section, 108…Printing section, 109…Conveying section, 110…Reader / writer, 201…Printing paper, 202…Substrate, 301…Linux (registered trademark) operating system, 302…WiFi (registered trademark) device driver, 303…wpa_supplicant, 304…hostapd, 30… 5…iw, 306…RPL, 400…RFID tag, 500…wall, 600…shelf, BTa…set button, BTb…cancel button, BTc…keyword search button, BTd…set button, BTe…list button, BTf…print button, BTk…keyboard button, IBa…input box, IBb…input box, IBc…input box, IBd…input box, IBe…input box, IBf…input box, SCa…setup screen, SCb…standby screen, SCc…search title input screen. Detailed Implementation

[0043] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the description, constituent elements having substantially the same function and structure are labeled with the same reference numerals. Furthermore, the embodiments shown below illustrate technical concepts. The embodiments are not limited to the material, shape, construction, or arrangement of the constituent parts. Various modifications can be made to the embodiments.

[0044] <Structure>

[0045] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating a structural example of an item management device according to an embodiment. The item management device 100 is a device for managing the inventory status of items equipped with RFID tags. In this embodiment, the item management device 100 will be described as a printer device. The item management device 100 includes a processor 101, a bus 102, RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, a memory 104, a wireless communication module 105, a user interface 106, a cutting unit 107, a printing unit 108, a conveying unit 109, and a reader / writer 110. The bus 102 includes an address bus, a data bus, control signal lines, and power lines. The bus 102 connects the processor 101, RAM 103, memory 104, wireless communication module 105, user interface 106, cutting unit 107, printing unit 108, conveying unit 109, and reader / writer 110 to each other. The processor 101, RAM 103, and memory 104 are connected via the bus 102 to form a computer for the item management device 100.

[0046] The processor 101 is equivalent to the central part of the aforementioned computer. The processor 101 controls the various parts according to the operating system or application programs to realize the various functions of the item management device 100. The processor 101 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processor 101 may also be referred to as a control unit.

[0047] RAM 103 is a volatile storage device. RAM 103 is used as a working area for data to be appropriately rewritten by the processor 101. RAM 103 is also used as a cache for temporary data storage.

[0048] Memory 104 is a non-volatile storage device. Memory 104 is equivalent to the auxiliary storage section of the computer described above. Memory 104 stores pre-set operating system or application programs, control data, data used by processor 101 during various processes, and data created by processor 101. Memory 104 may be, for example, EEPROM (Electric Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), etc.

[0049] The application stored in memory 104 includes a processing program describing information processing performed by the item management device 100. There are no particular limitations on the method of installing the processing program in memory 104. The processing program can be recorded on a removable storage medium, or it can be distributed via network communication and installed in memory 104. The form of the storage medium is not limited as long as it can record programs like a CD-ROM or memory card and can be read by the device.

[0050] The wireless communication module 105 is a module that communicates wirelessly with the external devices of the item management device 100. The wireless communication module 105 is, for example, a module corresponding to WiFi (registered trademark). The wireless communication module 105, together with the external devices of the item management device 100, forms a mesh network.

[0051] User interface 106 is a device that prompts information to the user of item management device 100 and accepts input from the user. User interface 106 is, for example, a touch panel display.

[0052] The cutting unit 107 cuts the printed paper stored in the item management device 100. The cutting unit 107 includes, for example, a paper-cutting blade.

[0053] The printing unit 108 forms an image on the printing paper stored in the item management device 100. The printing unit 108 is, for example, a thermal printhead.

[0054] The conveying unit 109 conveys the printing paper stored in the item management device 100. The conveying unit 109 may also be referred to as an impression roller, for example.

[0055] The reader 110 communicates with the RFID tag. The reader 110 receives information stored in the RFID tag. The reader 110 enables the RFID tag to store information. The reader 110 may also be referred to as a tag reader, for example.

[0056] The assembly of the cutting unit 107, the printing unit 108, and the conveying unit 109 forms an image on the printing paper stored in the item management device 100, and then conveys and cuts it. That is, the assembly of the cutting unit 107, the printing unit 108, and the conveying unit 109 outputs information to the outside of the item management device 100. The assembly of the cutting unit 107, the printing unit 108, and the conveying unit 109 is, for example, referred to as an output unit.

[0057] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view showing a structural example of the item management device according to an embodiment. The item management device 100 houses printing paper 201. Additionally, the item management device 100 also includes a substrate 202.

[0058] The substrate 202 is, for example, a printed circuit board. A processor 101, an AM 103, a memory 104, and a wireless communication module 105 are disposed on the substrate 202. The substrate 202 is disposed in a stable location within the item management device 100, such as the lower part.

[0059] The printing paper 201 is, for example, thermal paper wound into a roll. The printing paper 201 is stored in the item management device 100 and is pulled out from the roll state for use. The printing paper 201 is wound from the upstream side where it is wound into a roll, passing sequentially through the part clamped by the printing unit 108 and the conveying unit 109, and through the part cut by the cutting unit 107, and is then guided to the outside of the item management device 100, i.e., the downstream side.

[0060] The printing unit 108 and the transport unit 109 are arranged to clamp the printing paper 201 pulled out from a roll. An image is formed at the portion of the printing unit 108 and the transport unit 109 where the printing paper 201 is clamped.

[0061] The cutting section 107 is arranged such that the wound printing paper 201 passes through the interior. The cutting section 107 is located downstream of the printing section 108 and the transport section 109.

[0062] User interface 106 is located in a place where it is easy for users to operate, such as the top surface of item management device 100.

[0063] The reader 110 is placed in a location where it can easily communicate with RFID tags, such as the upper part of the item management device 100.

[0064] Figure 3This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the structure of the software in the item management device of this embodiment. In the computer of the item management device 100, a Linux operating system 301 runs. The Linux operating system 301 is system software that manages the hardware and software resources of the computer and provides general services for computer programs. A WiFi device driver 302 runs on the Linux operating system 301. The WiFi device driver 302 is software used by the Linux operating system 301 to control the wireless communication module 105. Additionally, wpa_supplicant 303, hostapd 304, and iw 305, as software, run on the Linux operating system 301. wpa_supplicant 303 is software used to request a connection to a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) access point. hostapd 304 is software that runs as an authentication server, using the wireless communication module 105 as an access point. iw 305 is software used to configure the wireless LAN network. Furthermore, communication within the constructed mesh network follows RPL (IPv6 Routing Protocol for Low-Power and Lossy Networks) 306.

[0065] Figure 4 This is a configuration diagram illustrating an example of the use of an item management device in a store. In this embodiment, as... Figure 4 The following description uses an example of six item management devices 100 configured in a bookstore or similar shop. It should be noted that the shop includes walls 500. Each item management device 100 is assigned a different address. Furthermore, each item management device 100 is positioned in front of a different shelf 600. Each shelf 600 is named. Each shelf 600 stores multiple books attached with RFID tags 400. That is, in this embodiment, the items managed by the item management devices 100 are books. Figure 4 In the example shown, only one RFID tag 400 is shown; others are omitted.

[0066] Six inventory management devices 100 are arranged clockwise around the wall 500. The first inventory management device 100 is assigned the address "fe80::6". In front of the first inventory management device 100, a shelf 600 labeled "6.F Company Shelf" is arranged. The first inventory management device 100 is capable of communicating with RFID tags 400 stored in the shelf 600 labeled "6.F Company Shelf".

[0067] The address "fe80::4" is assigned to the second inventory management device 100. A shelf 600 named "5.E Company Shelf" is positioned in front of the second inventory management device 100. The second inventory management device 100 can communicate with the RFID tags 400 stored in the shelf 600 labeled "5.E Company Shelf". The first inventory management device 100 communicates with the second inventory management device 100.

[0068] The address "fe80::2" is assigned to the third item management device 100. A shelf 600 named "4.D Company Shelf" is installed in front of the third item management device 100. The third item management device 100 can communicate with the RFID tags 400 stored in the shelf 600 labeled "4.D Company Shelf". The second item management device 100 communicates with the third item management device 100.

[0069] The fourth item management device 100 is assigned the address "fe80::1". A shelf 600 named "1.A Company Shelf" is positioned in front of the fourth item management device 100. The fourth item management device 100 can communicate with the RFID tags 400 stored in the shelf 600 labeled "1.A Company Shelf". The third item management device 100 communicates with the fourth item management device 100.

[0070] The fifth inventory management device 100 is assigned the address "fe80::3". A shelf 600 named "2.B Company Shelf" is positioned in front of the fifth inventory management device 100. The fifth inventory management device 100 can communicate with the RFID tags 400 stored in the shelf 600 labeled "2.B Company Shelf". The fourth inventory management device 100 communicates with the fifth inventory management device 100.

[0071] The sixth inventory management device 100 is assigned the address "fe80::5". A shelf 600 named "3.C Company Shelf" is positioned in front of the sixth inventory management device 100. The sixth inventory management device 100 can communicate with the RFID tags 400 stored in the shelf 600 labeled "3.C Company Shelf". The fifth inventory management device 100 communicates with the sixth inventory management device 100.

[0072] Figure 5This is a table illustrating an example of a path database stored in the memory of the item management device of this embodiment. The path database (DB) contains information related to paths in a grid network composed of multiple item management devices 100. In the path database, for each address constituting the grid network, an address representing the source address and a nexthop representing the destination address are recorded. Figure 5 In the example shown, when the address is "fe80::6", the nexthop is "fe80::4". When the address is "fe80::4", the nexthop is "fe80::2". When the address is "fe80::2", the nexthop is "fe80::1". When the address is "fe80::1", the nexthop is "fe80::3". When the address is "fe80::3", the nexthop is "fe80::5". When the address is "fe80::5", the nexthop is "Null".

[0073] <Operation>

[0074] The setup operation of the item management device 100 in this embodiment will be described. The setup operation is the operation of setting information used when multiple item management devices 100 are used in combination. Figure 6 This diagram illustrates an example of the setting screen of the item management device according to an embodiment. When a user operates the user interface 106 and selects a setting from the standby screen (described later), the screen displayed on the user interface 106 transitions to... Figure 6 The setup screen SCa shown is an example of the settings screen SCa in reference. Figure 4 The description describes the situation shown in the fourth item management device 100. The setting screen SCa displays an input box IBa for entering an address, an input box IBb for entering a group name, an OK button BTa for confirming the input, a Cancel button BTb for canceling the input, and a keyboard button BTk for character input. The user selects either input box IBa or IBb and uses the keyboard button BTk to enter the settings. After completing the input in input boxes IBa and IBb, the user presses the OK button BTa to confirm the settings.

[0075] Figure 7 This is a table showing an example of the settings configured in the item management device of this embodiment. Figure 7The interface displays the assigned address, group name, and supplementary description for each address. For address "fe80::1", the group name is "1. Company A". For address "fe80::2", the group name is "4. Company D". For address "fe80::3", the group name is "2. Company B". For address "fe80::4", the group name is "5. Company E". For address "fe80::5", the group name is "3. Company C". For address "fe80::6", the group name is "6. Company F". The supplementary description is consistent across all addresses: "It's the opposite shelf."

[0076] The standby operation of the item management device 100 in this embodiment will be described. The standby operation is the state in which the item management device 100 waits for user operation. Figure 8 This diagram illustrates an example of the standby screen of the item management device according to an embodiment. The standby screen SCb is displayed on the user interface 106. The upper part of the standby screen SCb displays the group name and supplementary description text set in the aforementioned settings screen. The center of the standby screen SCb displays a keyword search button BTc to initiate a search. The lower part of the standby screen SCb displays a settings button BTd to initiate the aforementioned settings process, and a list button BTe to display the inventory list maintained by the item management device 100.

[0077] A summary of the search operation of the item management device 100 in this embodiment will be described. The search operation is an action that searches for the location of items based on user input and outputs the results. In this embodiment, referring to... Figure 4 The configuration described herein will be illustrated using the scenario of a user operating the first item management device 100 as an example. Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the general outline of the search operation of the item management device in this embodiment. When a search operation is initiated, the item management device 100 accepts input of search information (ACT11). Specifically, the processor 101 of the item management device 100 controls the user interface 106 to accept user input of search information.

[0078] The item management device 100 sets the current node (ACT12) as the search target. In detail, the processor 101 sets the current node in the grid network formed by the item management devices 100 as the target of the search process to be performed next.

[0079] The item management device 100 obtains search results based on search information (ACT13). Specifically, when the target of the search is the current node, the processor 101 controls the reader 110 to communicate with the RFID tag 400 and update the inventory information. Then, the processor 101 obtains the search results based on the updated inventory information and the search information. On the other hand, when the target of the search is not the current node, the processor 101 controls the wireless communication module 105 to communicate with the target. In this communication, the processor 101 commands the node of the target to update the inventory information and sends the inventory information and group name. The processor 101 obtains the search results based on the inventory information and search information received by the wireless communication module 105.

[0080] The item management device 100 outputs the group name (ACT14). Specifically, the processor 101 controls the printing unit 108 and the delivery unit 109 to print the group name of the searched object on the printing paper 201.

[0081] The item management device 100 outputs search results (ACT15). Specifically, the processor 101 controls the printing unit 108 and the conveying unit 109 to print the search results obtained in ACT13 onto the printing paper 201.

[0082] The item management device 100 determines whether the search object is an end node (ACT16). If the search object is not an end node (ACT16, No), the item management device 100 sets the search object as the next node (ACT17). Specifically, the processor 101 refers to the path DB and sets the search object as the next node. Then, the item management device 100 executes the processing of ACT13. That is, the item management device 100 repeats the processing of ACT13 to ACT15 while setting the search object as the next node.

[0083] In ACT16, if the search target is an end node (ACT16, Yes), the item management device 100 outputs undetected information (ACT18). Specifically, the processor 101 outputs items from the search information that have not yet been output as search results as undetected information. More specifically, the processor 101 controls the printing unit 108 and the transport unit 109 to print the undetected information onto the printing paper 201. When printing is complete, the processor 101 controls the cutting unit 107 to cut the printing paper 201.

[0084] When ACT18 is finished processing, Figure 9 The series of processes shown has ended.

[0085] A more detailed example will be described regarding the search operation of the item management device 100 in this embodiment. Figures 10 to 12This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the search operation of the item management device in this embodiment. When a search operation is initiated, the item management device 100 displays a search title input screen (ACT101). Specifically, the processor 101 of the item management device 100 controls the user interface 106 to display the search title input screen.

[0086] Figure 13 This diagram illustrates an example of a search title input screen on an item management device according to an embodiment. The search title input screen SCc is displayed on the user interface 106. A print button BTf for starting printing is displayed at the top of the search title input screen SCc. In the center of the search title input screen SCc, input boxes IBc, IBd, IBe, IBf, and IBg for entering the title of the book to be searched are displayed. At the bottom of the search title input screen SCc, a keyboard button BTk for character input is displayed. The user selects input boxes sequentially, starting with the one with the smallest serial number, and operates the keyboard button BTk to enter the title to be searched. When the user has finished entering the title to be searched, they operate the print button BTf.

[0087] Return to reference Figures 10 to 12 The item management device 100 determines whether the print button is pressed (ACT102). If the print button BTf is not pressed (ACT102, No), the item management device 100 repeats ACT102 and stands still until the print button BTf is pressed.

[0088] In ACT102, when the print button is pressed (ACT102, Yes), the item management device 100 creates a search database (ACT103). Specifically, the processor 101 controls the RAM 103 to create the search database (database) on the RAM 103.

[0089] Figure 14 This is an example table representing a search database created by the item management device in this embodiment. In Figure 14 The example shown is based on Figure 13 The example shown creates a search database. For example... Figure 14 As shown, the search database includes the serial number (No.), title, and tags. The serial number and title are related to... Figure 13 The search title input screen (SCc) shown corresponds to the content entered. The flag is a parameter used to determine whether a search result is output during the search process. Figure 14In the examples shown, serial number 1 is titled "BBB Vol.3". Serial number 2 is titled "CCC Vol.5". Serial number 3 is titled "AAA Vol.2". Serial number 4 is titled "FFF Vol.1". Serial number 5 is titled "ZZZ Vol.100". Figure 14 In the example shown, all the symbols are "Null".

[0090] Return to reference Figures 10 to 12 The item management device 100 stores its own address in ADDR (ACT104). Specifically, the processor 101 stores the address of the item management device 100 whose print button BTf was pressed in the variable ADDR.

[0091] The item management device 100 prints "Current Location" (ACT105). Specifically, the processor 101 controls the printing unit 108 and the conveying unit 109 to print the string "Current Location" on the printing paper 201.

[0092] The item management device 100 commands the reading of RFID tags and the updating of the inventory database for the item management device at address ADDR (ACT106). Specifically, the processor 101 commands the item management device 100 to read RFID tags 400 and update the inventory database for the address stored in the variable ADDR.

[0093] Figure 15 This is a table representing an example of an inventory database created by the item management device in this embodiment. For example... Figure 15 As shown, the inventory database contains SGTIN (Serialized Global Trade Item Number), title, and read result. SGTIN is a product identification code with a serial number. The title is the title of the book associated with the SGTIN. The read result indicates whether the reader 110 can read the corresponding RFID tag 400. Figure 15 The examples shown include: an item with SGTIN "012…1", title "AAAVol.1", and read result "NG"; an item with SGTIN "012…2", title "AAAVol.1", and read result "NG"; an item with SGTIN "023…1", title "AAAVol.2", and read result "NG"; an item with SGTIN "023…2", title "AAAVol.2", and read result "OK"; and an item with SGTIN "034…1", title "AAAVol.3", and read result "OK".

[0094] Return to reference Figures 10 to 12 The item management device 100 substitutes 0 into NUM and substitutes the maximum No. of the search database into MAX (ACT107). Specifically, the processor 101 substitutes 0 into the variable NUM and substitutes the maximum serial number of the search database into the variable MAX.

[0095] The item management device 100 prints the group name and the upper part of the border (ACT108). In detail, the processor 101 controls the printing unit 108 and the conveying unit 109 to print the upper part of the group name and border on the printing paper 201.

[0096] The item management device 100 increments NUM (ACT109). Specifically, the processor 101 increments the variable NUM.

[0097] The item management device 100 determines whether NUM is greater than MAX (ACT110). If the variable NUM is not greater than the variable MAX (ACT110, No), the item management device 100 determines whether the search title for No. corresponding to NUM exists in the inventory DB (ACT111). If the search title for the serial number corresponding to the variable NUM does not exist in the inventory DB (ACT111, No), the item management device 100 executes ACT109.

[0098] In ACT111, if a search title with a serial number corresponding to the variable NUM exists in the inventory database (ACT111, Yes), the item management device 100 prints the existing search title (ACT112). Specifically, the processor 101 controls the printing unit 108 and the transport unit 109 to print the existing search title onto the printing paper 201. Next, the item management device 100 updates the flag in the search database for the existing search title to OK (ACT113). Then, the item management device 100 executes ACT109.

[0099] In this way, the item management device 100 repeats the actions ACT109 to ACT113 until the variable NUM becomes larger than the variable MAX. That is, it determines whether the search title exists in the inventory DB in the order of serial number from 1 to the maximum value, and if it exists, it performs printing and updating of the label.

[0100] In ACT110, if the variable NUM is larger than the variable MAX (ACT110, yes), the item management device 100 prints the lower part of the border (ACT114). Specifically, the processor 101 controls the printing unit 108 and the transport unit 109 to print the lower part of the border onto the printing paper 201.

[0101] The item management device 100 determines whether the next address of path DB is null (ACT115). If the next address of path DB is not null (ACT115, No), the item management device 100 prints a downward arrow (ACT116). Specifically, the processor 101 controls the printing unit 108 and the transport unit 109 to print the downward arrow on the printing paper 201. Next, the item management device 100 substitutes the next address into ADDR (ACT117). Specifically, the processor 101 substitutes the next address shown in path DB into the variable ADDR. Then, the item management device 100 executes the processing of ACT106.

[0102] In this way, the item management device 100 repeats the actions ACT106 to ACT117 until the next address of the path DB becomes null. That is, from the current node to the end node, the inventory DB is updated, the search title is checked for existence, and the result is printed.

[0103] In ACT115, if the next address in the path DB is null (ACT115, Yes), the item management device 100 determines whether a title with a flag not marked as OK exists in the search DB (ACT118). If a title with a flag not marked as OK exists in the search DB (ACT118, Yes), the item management device 100 prints "Not Detected" (ACT119). Specifically, the processor 101 controls the printing unit 108 and the transport unit 109 to print the string "Not Detected" on the printing paper 201. Next, the item management device 100 prints the title in the search DB with a flag not marked as OK (ACT120).

[0104] In ACT118, if there are no headings in the search database that are not marked as OK (ACT 118, No), and after the processing of ACT120 is completed, the item management device 100 cuts the paper (ACT121). Specifically, the processor 101 controls the cutting unit 107 to cut the printed paper 201.

[0105] When ACT121 finishes processing, Figures 10 to 12 The series of processes shown has ended.

[0106] Figure 16 This diagram illustrates an example of a printed item output by the item management device of an embodiment. Figures 10 to 12 The series of processes shown output Figure 16 The printed material shown is PP. (As shown in the image) Figure 16As shown, the top of the printed document PP displays "Current Location" printed via ACT105. Below this, the group name "6.F Company" printed via ACT108 is displayed. Below that, "AAA Vol.2" printed via ACT112 is displayed. Below that, the lower part of the border printed via ACT114 is displayed, along with a downward arrow printed via ACT116. Below this, the group names and existing search titles are displayed by repeating ACT106 through ACT117. Furthermore, the bottom of the printed document PP displays "Not Detected" printed via ACT119. Below that, "BBB Vol.3" printed via ACT120 is displayed.

[0107] about Figure 9 The summary of the search action shown is as follows: Figures 10 to 12 Provide specific examples of the search actions shown, and supplement the corresponding relationships. (Refer to...) Figure 9 Explanation of ACT11 and reference Figures 10 to 12 The description corresponds to ACT101 through ACT103. The "Search Information" in ACT11 corresponds to the "Search Title" and "Search Database" in ACT101 through ACT103. (See reference...) Figure 9 The description of ACT12 corresponds to the reference. Figures 10 to 12 The explanation refers to ACT104. The variable representing the "search object" in ACT12 is the variable ADDR in ACT104. (See also...) Figure 9 Explanation of ACT13 and reference Figures 10 to 12 This corresponds to ACT106. The "Search Results" in ACT13 corresponds to the "Inventory DB" in ACT106. (See also...) Figure 9 Explanation of ACT14 and reference Figures 10 to 12 This corresponds to ACT108. The output of group names in ACT14 corresponds to the printing of group names in ACT108. See reference. Figure 9 Explanation of ACT15 and reference Figures 10 to 12 This section explains the correspondence between ACT109 to ACT113. The output of the search results in ACT15 corresponds to the printing of existing search titles in ACT112. (See also...) Figure 9 Explanation of ACT16 and reference Figures 10 to 12 This corresponds to ACT115. The end node in ACT16 corresponds to "the next address of path DB is null" in ACT115. (See reference...) Figure 9 Explanation of ACT17 and reference Figures 10 to 12 This corresponds to ACT117. In ACT17, "Set as next node" corresponds to "Substitute next address into ADDR" in ACT117. See reference... Figure 9Explanation of ACT18 and reference Figures 10 to 12 The description corresponds to ACT118 to ACT120. The "Not Detected Information" in ACT18 corresponds to the "Search DB Flag is Not OK" header in ACT120.

[0108] <Effect>

[0109] Readers have a limited detection range for RFID tags. Therefore, to read RFID tags distributed across a wide space, multiple readers are considered. By combining the results from multiple readers, the presence of RFID tags throughout the entire wide space can be determined.

[0110] According to an embodiment, the item management device 100 includes: a user interface 106 that receives search information input from a user; a wireless communication module 105 that constructs a mesh network with multiple external devices; a printing unit 108 that prints information on paper; and a processor 101 that executes actions on each node of the communication path from its own node to the end node in the mesh network, controlling the reader 110 or the wireless communication module 105 to obtain search results based on search information from nearby RFID tags 400, and controlling the printing unit 108 to print the search results. Therefore, the item management device 100 of this embodiment can print search results obtained from investigating distant RFID tags 400 that cannot be detected by the item management device 100 being operated by the user. Thus, the user does not need to walk around in a large space; they can obtain search results simply by operating the nearest item management device 100.

[0111] Furthermore, according to the embodiment, the processor 101 of the item management device 100 controls the printing unit 108 to print the search results in the order of the communication path from the local node to the end node. Therefore, the item management device 100 of this embodiment can instruct the user on a route to collect items along the communication path. Thus, the user can collect the desired items without having to walk unnecessary distances.

[0112] Furthermore, according to the embodiment, the processor 101 of the item management device 100 controls the printing unit 108 to also print undetected information that is not included in any of the search results in the search information. Thus, the item management device 100 of the embodiment can notify the user of search items not included in the inventory.

[0113] Furthermore, according to the embodiment, the processor 101 of the item management device 100 controls the printing unit 108 to print the group names associated with each device along with the search results. Therefore, the item management device 100 of the embodiment can more clearly convey the search results to the user.

[0114] <Other variations, etc.>

[0115] In the above embodiments, the description was given as an example where the item management device 100 includes a cutting section 107, a printing section 108, and a conveying section 109, and outputs information by forming an image on the printing paper 201; that is, the item management device 100 is a printer. The item management device 100 is not limited to a printer; a structure different from the cutting section 107, printing section 108, and conveying section 109 can be used as the output section. For example, the user interface 106 can also be used as the output section. Specifically, the processor 101 can control the user interface 106 to display search results on a display, or to display a QR code that allows access to the search results. When displaying search results on a display, the... Figures 10 to 12 The printing process is set to display on the monitor. That is, the monitor is controlled to display search results in the order of the communication path from this node to the end node. Additionally, if a QR code that allows access to the search results is displayed on the monitor, [the following will be done]. Figures 10 to 12 The printing process is configured to store display data in an external device (e.g., a server device). Then, instead of cutting paper, the process involves creating a QR code for accessing the display data stored in the external device and displaying it on a monitor. By reading the QR code on the monitor with a portable device, the server is accessed, and the corresponding display data is displayed on the portable device. In other words, the display of the QR code on the monitor indirectly corresponds to the action of executing control outputs and outputting search results for each node in the communication path from the local node to the end node in the grid network.

[0116] While several embodiments of the invention have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments may be implemented in various other forms and may be omitted, substituted, modified, or combined in various ways without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included within the scope or spirit of the invention and within the scope of the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A printer device, characterized in that, have: The user interface receives search information input from the user; The wireless communication module connects with multiple external devices to form a mesh network. The printing department prints information on paper; as well as The control unit performs actions on each node of the communication path from its own node to the end node in the mesh network, including controlling the tag reader or the wireless communication module to receive information from nearby RFID tags to obtain search results based on the search information, and controlling the printing unit to print the search results.

2. The printer apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The control unit controls the printing unit to print the search results in the order of the communication path from the local node to the end node.

3. The printer apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The control unit controls the printing unit to also print any undetected information that is not included in any of the search results in the search information.

4. The printer apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The control unit controls the printing unit to print the group names associated with each of the devices together with the search results.

5. An item management device, characterized in that, have: The user interface receives search information input from the user; The wireless communication module connects with multiple external devices to form a mesh network. The output section outputs information to the outside. as well as The control unit performs actions on each node of the communication path from the local node to the end node in the mesh network, respectively, to control the tag reader or the wireless communication module that receives information from nearby RFID tags to obtain search results based on the search information, and to control the output unit to output the search results.

6. The item management device according to claim 5, wherein, The output unit is a display.

7. The item management device according to claim 6, wherein, The control unit controls the display to execute the display of search results in the order of the communication path from the local node to the end node.

8. The item management device according to claim 6, wherein, The control unit controls the display to also display undetected information that is not included in any of the search results in the search information.

9. The item management device according to claim 6, wherein, The control unit displays a QR code on the display screen that allows access to search results.

10. A storage medium storing a control program for an item management device that causes a processor of the item management device to perform the following actions, namely, For each node on the communication path from the local node to the end node in the mesh network, the actions of controlling the tag reader that receives information from nearby RFID tags or the wireless communication module that constructs the mesh network with multiple external devices to obtain search results based on search information, and the actions of controlling the output unit to output the search results, wherein the search information is information input via the user interface.

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