Shelf label management system and method

Abstract

To enable effective use of an electronic shelf label.SOLUTION: A shelf label management system includes: first acquisition means for acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf tag; second acquisition means for acquiring an item identifier; print instruction means for instructing the electronic shelf label corresponding to the shelf label identifier to print item information corresponding to the item identifier according to an update count of the electronic shelf label with displayed contents; and update means for updating the displayed contents of the electronic shelf label according to the update count.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a shelf label management system and method for managing shelf labels used to display products. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, electronic shelf labels have come into widespread use in supermarkets, drug stores, electronics retailers, and other stores. Electronic shelf labels are equipped with small displays capable of displaying product information such as prices, and can receive and display the product information from a management device (see, for example, Patent Document 1). By using the electronic shelf labels, product displays can be easily changed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-024757 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, it would be difficult from a cost perspective to introduce electronic shelf labels to all products, so there is a demand for technology that can effectively utilize the limited number of electronic shelf labels.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to provide a shelf label management system and method that enables effective use of electronic shelf labels. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A shelf label management system according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first acquisition means for acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label, a second acquisition means for acquiring a product identifier, a print instruction means for instructing printing of product information corresponding to the product identifier in accordance with the number of updates to the display content of the electronic shelf label corresponding to the shelf label identifier, and an update means for updating the display content of the electronic shelf label in accordance with the number of updates.

[0007] A method according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first acquisition step of acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label, a second acquisition step of acquiring a product identifier, a print instruction step of instructing printing of product information corresponding to the product identifier in accordance with the number of updates to the display content of the electronic shelf label corresponding to the shelf label identifier, and an update step of updating the display content of the electronic shelf label in accordance with the number of updates. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a shelf label management system according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a management device according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a product information database according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 is a functional block diagram of a transceiver according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an electronic shelf label information database according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a display example of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another display example of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a mobile terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a portable device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 11]5 is a flowchart showing an example of operation of the shelf label management system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing still another display example of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another example of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a shelf label management system according to a second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this specification and the drawings, elements that can be similarly described may be designated by the same reference numerals to avoid repetitive description.

[0010] The explanation will be given in the following order: 1. Overview of the embodiment 2. First embodiment 2.1.System Configuration 2.2. Example of operation 2.3. Variations 3. Second embodiment 3.1.System Configuration 3.2. Example of operation 4. Other embodiments 5. Summary of the embodiment

[0011] <<1. Overview of the embodiment>> First, an outline of the embodiment will be described.

[0012] Generally, each electronic shelf label has an identifier, and the identifier is linked to a product to manage specific information about the product (e.g., product name, selling price, specifications (place of origin), and sales promotion information). Also, in a supermarket, for example, electronic shelf labels are usually managed by department. In such cases, in the produce department, even for the same cabbage, the display on the electronic shelf label must be changed when the place of origin changes. For such products, it is more efficient to use electronic shelf labels rather than handwriting POP advertisements each time. On the other hand, for standard items such as dry groceries, whose selling prices are rarely changed, linking them to electronic shelf labels is not very effective.

[0013] As described above, electronic shelf labels are linked to suitable products for each department, but there are cases where all linked electronic shelf labels are used and cases where spares are kept. By keeping spare electronic shelf labels, it is possible to respond to new products and unexpected events. An unexpected event is, for example, when the number of products handled increases and it becomes necessary to allocate new electronic shelf labels. Another unexpected event is a malfunction of an electronic shelf label.

[0014] Thus, it is desirable to manage the switching between electronic shelf labels and paper price cards in an effective manner.

[0015] Therefore, linking products that are updated (changed) frequently to electronic shelf labels and using price cards for products that are updated less frequently is an effective way to derive investment effectiveness.

[0016] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to provide a shelf label management system and method that enables effective use of electronic shelf labels.

[0017] According to this embodiment, it is possible to switch between electronic shelf labels and price cards depending on the update frequency of the electronic shelf labels, thereby making it possible to use the electronic shelf labels efficiently and to reduce investment costs.

[0018] <<2. First embodiment>> Next, a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0019] <2.1. System configuration> FIG. 1 shows an example of a schematic configuration of a shelf label management system according to a first embodiment.

[0020] The shelf label management system 100 includes a management device 110, transceivers 120, 130, electronic shelf labels 140a, 140b, 140c (hereinafter, described as 140 unless otherwise required), a mobile terminal 150, and a printer 160. The shelf label management system 100 is installed in stores such as supermarkets, drug stores, and electronics retailers.

[0021] The management device 110 is connected to a plurality of electronic shelf labels 140a, 140b, and 140c via a transceiver 120 so that they can communicate with each other. The management device 110 is also connected to a mobile terminal 150 and a printing device 160 used by a store clerk via a transceiver 130 so that they can communicate with each other. The communication may be wired or wireless. The numbers of the transceivers 120, the transceivers 130, the plurality of electronic shelf labels 140a, 140b, and 140c, the mobile terminals 150, and the printing devices 160 are not limited to the example shown in the figure.

[0022] 2 is a functional block diagram of a management device according to the first embodiment. The management device 110 includes a processing unit 111, a storage unit 116, a display unit 117, an input unit 118, and a communication interface unit 119.

[0023] The storage unit 116 is implemented by, for example, a ROM, a RAM, a storage memory, etc. The storage unit 116 temporarily or permanently stores programs (instructions) and parameters for the operation of the processing unit 111, as well as various data (for example, a product information database). The programs include one or more instructions for the operation of the processing unit 111.

[0024] Display unit 117 is, for example, an electronic paper or liquid crystal display, and displays various information to a user (for example, a manager, a store clerk, etc.) in accordance with display data output from processing unit 111.

[0025] The input unit 118 is, for example, a mouse or a keyboard, and receives various inputs from the user. The input unit 118 provides the received input information to the processing unit 111, or stores it in the storage unit 116. The input unit 118 can also be a touch panel display integrated with the display unit 117.

[0026] The communication interface unit 119 is implemented by a network adapter and / or a network interface card, etc. The communication interface unit 119 receives signals from a network and transmits signals to the network. For example, the communication interface unit 119 communicates with the transceivers 120 and 130 via a wired or wireless network (e.g., a LAN (Local Area Network)).

[0027] The processing unit 111 is realized by executing a program stored in the storage unit 116. The processing unit 111 includes an update count determination unit 112, a print instruction unit 113, and an electronic shelf label update unit 114. Note that the processing unit 111 may further include other components in addition to these components. In other words, the processing unit 111 may also perform operations other than those of these components.

[0028] The update count determination unit 112 obtains the number of updates of the display content of the electronic shelf label of a product whose selling price has been changed by a user, compares the obtained update count with a predetermined threshold (i.e., a predetermined value), and determines whether to change from an electronic shelf label to a price card. The update count of the electronic shelf label can be obtained from the transceivers 120 and 130 described later.

[0029] The print instruction unit 113 instructs the printing device 160 to print the product information displayed on the electronic shelf label according to the determination result of the number of updates of the electronic shelf label. More specifically, when the number of updates of the electronic shelf label is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the printing of the product information is instructed in order to switch from the electronic shelf label to a price card. This is because, when the number of updates is small, the degree of efficiency improvement by the electronic shelf label is small. Compared to price cards, electronic shelf labels can quickly update display information such as prices, and can save labor in updating product information (for example, printing and replacing price cards), but if the number of updates is small, the burden of investment costs becomes large. When the number of updates is small, the electronic shelf label can be switched to a price card, and the unused electronic shelf label can be collected and used to display other products. A user can input and set a predetermined threshold in advance via the input unit 118. The input predetermined threshold can be stored in the storage unit 116, for example. The predetermined threshold value may be set to a different value depending on the type (e.g., size) of the electronic shelf label, or may be set to a different value for each department or category. In addition, the number of updates and the target period may be set so as to be changeable as appropriate.

[0030] The electronic shelf label update unit 114 updates the display contents of the electronic shelf label 140 according to the determination result of the number of updates. For example, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 updates the display contents of the electronic shelf label 140 so as to erase (initialize) the contents of the product display. In the initialization, if electronic paper is used for the display unit of the electronic shelf label 140, a display of a single color such as white or black, an arbitrary initial display setting, or a display indicating unused or unset, etc. may be performed. At that time, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 may cancel the correspondence relationship (also referred to as link information or connection information) between the electronic shelf label and the product stored in the transceiver 120 described later. Alternatively, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 may update the display contents of the electronic shelf label 140 to product information of the product to be displayed next. In addition, in the initialization, if the electronic shelf label 140 is a device lent by a provider, it may display that the electronic shelf label 140 is a returned item, and the return destination, date, etc. If the electronic shelf label 140 is provided by a subscription system, when the electronic shelf label 140 is returned or switched to use at another store, a message to that effect may be displayed. Furthermore, when the selling price of a product is changed, for example, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 updates the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 in accordance with the change. Note that when candidates for changing from price cards to electronic shelf labels have been determined (when candidates have been extracted according to updates to price cards during a predetermined period or the number of times they have been issued, etc.), the priority of the candidates may be changed in descending order.

[0031] 3 shows an example of a product information database according to the first embodiment. The product information database (DB) 300 is stored in the storage unit 116 and stores product information data.

[0032] The product information DB300 may include a JAN / PLU code (product identifier), a product name, and a selling price. The JAN / PLU code (product identifier) ​​is a unique identifier assigned to a product, and is generally attached to the product as a barcode. The JAN (EAU) code is represented by 8 or 13 digits. The PLU (Price Look Up) code is generally represented by 6 to 8 digits. The user can newly register, update, and delete product information in the product information DB300 via the input unit 118. For example, when the selling price is changed, the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 is updated so that the changed selling price is displayed. Note that, in addition to the product information DB300, the special sale information in the sales plan master is also referenced for the selling price. When multiple sales plans are set for the same product, the lowest price is displayed preferentially on the electronic shelf label 140. For example, a bargain product of the month may be further sold by specifying a day of the week, so the priority of referring to the product information DB300 is usually the lowest. The items included in the product information DB 300 are not limited to these, and may include other items.

[0033] 4 is a functional block diagram of the transceiver according to the first embodiment. The transceiver 120 includes a processing unit 121, a storage unit 126, a communication interface unit 127, and an input / output unit 128.

[0034] The storage unit 126 is implemented by, for example, a ROM, a RAM, a storage memory, etc. The storage unit 126 temporarily or permanently stores programs (instructions) and parameters for the operation of the processing unit 121, as well as various data (for example, an electronic shelf label information database). The programs include one or more instructions for the operation of the processing unit 121.

[0035] The communication interface unit 127 is implemented by a network adapter and / or a network interface card, etc. The communication interface unit 127 receives signals from a network and transmits signals to the network. For example, the communication interface unit 127 communicates with the management device 110 and with the electronic shelf label 140 via a wired or wireless network (e.g., a LAN (Local Area Network)).

[0036] The processing unit 121 is realized by executing a program stored in the storage unit 126. The processing unit 121 includes an electronic shelf label identification unit 122 and an update count management unit 123. Note that the processing unit 121 may further include other components in addition to these components. In other words, the processing unit 121 may also perform operations other than those of these components.

[0037] The electronic shelf label identification unit 122 identifies the electronic shelf label 140 that is the destination of the product information and is associated with the product information received from the management device 110. The electronic shelf label 140 can be identified by referring to an electronic shelf label information database, which will be described later.

[0038] The update count management unit 123 manages the number of updates for the electronic shelf label 140. When product information is received from the management device 110, the update count management unit 123 refers to an electronic shelf label information database (described later) and updates the number of updates for the electronic shelf label 140 associated with the product information. Note that, as will be described in detail later, the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 can be updated due to changes in selling price, sale information, and the like.

[0039] 5 shows an example of an electronic shelf label information database according to the first embodiment. An electronic shelf label information database (DB) 500 is stored in the storage unit 126, and stores electronic shelf label information.

[0040] The electronic shelf label information DB500 may include a shelf label identifier, a JAN / PLU code (product identifier), and the number of updates. The shelf label identifier is a unique identifier assigned to each of the electronic shelf labels 140a, 140b, and 140c. In the electronic shelf label information DB500, the shelf label identifier is associated with a JAN / PLU code (product identifier). This correspondence allows the electronic shelf label specifying unit 122 to specify the electronic shelf label 140 to which the product information is to be transmitted. As will be described later, a single shelf label identifier may be associated with a plurality of JAN / PLU codes (product identifiers). In other words, the electronic shelf label 140 can display product information for a plurality of products. The number of updates indicates the number of times the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 has been updated. The number of updates is managed by the update count management unit 123, and is updated by the update count management unit 123 when the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 is updated due to a change in selling price or the like. The update count determination unit 112 of the management device 110 can perform processing by acquiring the update count stored in the electronic shelf label information DB 500. Note that the items included in the electronic shelf label information DB 500 are not limited to these, and can include other items.

[0041] 6 shows an example of a display of an electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. The electronic shelf label 140 includes a control unit 141, a battery 142, a storage unit 146, a communication interface unit 147, and a display unit 148.

[0042] The storage unit 146 stores the product information received from the transceiver 120 via the communication interface unit 147. The communication interface unit 147 can be a small antenna. The control unit 141 displays the product information stored in the storage unit 146 on the display unit 148. The display unit 148 can be electronic paper, a small liquid crystal display, or the like. The display unit 148 can display the product information in a bitmap image of multiple colors. The type and display format of the electronic shelf label 140 are set in advance, and for example, the user can specify a font and a font size in the selling price display area of ​​the display format. In addition, a product name display area, a standard display area, a promotion display area, and the like are set in advance, and the user can specify an illustration or mark to be displayed. The electronic shelf label 140 is driven by a battery (cell) 142. The more times the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 is updated, the faster the battery 142 is consumed, and the electronic shelf label 140 needs to be replaced. The electronic shelf label 140 may include a tag (not shown) (for example, an RF tag, an IC tag, or an NFC tag) for identifying the electronic shelf label 140. The mobile terminal 150 can obtain identification information of the electronic shelf label 140 by reading the tag.

[0043] Fig. 7 shows display examples of electronic shelf labels according to the first embodiment. Display example 700 in Fig. 7(a) and display example 710 in Fig. 7(b) are each examples in which product information of one product is displayed on one electronic shelf label. Display example 700 includes product name 701, barcode 702 indicating a product identifier, additional information 703, selling price 704, and barcode 705 indicating the shelf label identifier. Display example 710 similarly includes product name 711, barcode 712 indicating a product identifier, additional information 713, selling price 714, and barcode 715 indicating the shelf label identifier.

[0044] In the display example 700 of Fig. 7(a), "recommended products" and the like are displayed as additional information 703, but the additional information 703 is not limited to this, and information such as bundle sales in which a discount is given by purchasing a certain number of products, set match sales in which a discount is given by combining specific products, mix match sales in which a discount is given by combining any products from among specific products, and three prices for one item may be displayed as the additional information 703. In the display example 710 of Fig. 7(b), information such as the place of origin of the product is displayed as additional information 713. In this way, electronic shelf labels can display a variety of information as additional information.

[0045] 8 shows another display example of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. In display example 800, one electronic shelf label displays product information 801, 802, 803, and 804 of four products. By displaying in this manner, one electronic shelf label can display product information of four products that are adjacent to each other vertically and horizontally on a product shelf.

[0046] 9 is a functional block diagram of the mobile terminal according to the first embodiment. The mobile terminal 150 has a processing unit 151, a storage unit 156, a scanner unit 157, an input unit 158, and a communication interface unit 159. The mobile terminal 150 is also called a handy terminal. A user can have the mobile terminal 150 read the product identifier and shelf label identifier displayed on the electronic shelf label 140, and replace the electronic shelf label 140 with a paper price card. Alternatively, the user can have the mobile terminal 150 read the display contents of the price card, and replace the price card with the electronic shelf label 140.

[0047] The storage unit 156 is implemented by, for example, a ROM, a RAM, a storage memory, etc. The storage unit 156 temporarily or permanently stores programs (instructions) and parameters for the operation of the processing unit 151, as well as various data. The programs include one or more instructions for the operation of the processing unit 151.

[0048] The scanner unit 157 can read a barcode indicating a product identifier or a barcode indicating a shelf label identifier. That is, the mobile terminal 150 may be a barcode reader.

[0049] The input unit 158 ​​may be, for example, a numeric keypad for inputting numbers. A user can press the numeric keypad to input a product identifier of a product that does not have a barcode. Alternatively, the input unit 158 ​​may be configured to input a shelf label identifier.

[0050] The communication interface unit 159 receives signals from the network and transmits signals to the network. For example, the communication interface unit 159 communicates with the management device 110 via the transceiver 130.

[0051] The processing unit 151 is realized by executing a program stored in the storage unit 156. The processing unit 151 includes a control unit 152, an imaging unit 153, and an image processing unit 154. Note that the processing unit 151 may further include other components in addition to these components. That is, the processing unit 151 may also perform operations other than those of these components.

[0052] The control unit 152 transmits the product identifier or shelf label identifier read by the scanner unit 157 and the product identifier or shelf label identifier input to the input unit 158 ​​to the management device 110.

[0053] The imaging unit 153 captures an image of the electronic shelf label 140 or a price card, and stores the image data in the storage unit 156 .

[0054] The image processing unit 154 analyzes the image captured by the imaging unit 153. For example, when switching from the electronic shelf label 140 to a price card, the image processing unit 154 can analyze the image of the printed price card (printed matter) to extract product name and price information, and determine whether or not it matches the content displayed on the electronic shelf label 140 (i.e., product information data stored in the product information DB 300). That is, the image processing unit 154 can function as a determination unit. The image processing unit 154 may be provided in the management device 110.

[0055] Alternatively, by storing image data captured by the imaging unit 153 in the storage unit 156, the image data can be used to record the work content of the user or to manage the work record.

[0056] 10 is a perspective view of the portable device according to the first embodiment. A user can move around the store with the portable device 1000 to attach and remove electronic shelf labels and print price cards and POP advertisements.

[0057] The portable device 1000 holds the mobile terminal 150 so that the mobile terminal 150 can be removed by the user. The electronic shelf label box for attachment 1001 stores electronic shelf labels to be attached to product shelves by the user. The printing device 160 prints price cards (e.g., paper price tags) to be attached to product shelves on rolled paper 161. When the user reads or inputs a product identifier using the mobile terminal 150, the printing device 160 can print a price card corresponding to the product identifier. The printing device 160 can also print spotters and the like (promotional materials) to be attached to product shelves. The price cards and spotters printed by the printing device 160 are discharged to a tray 1004. The stock box 1002 stores spare toner cartridges and rolled paper for the printing device 160. The collected electronic shelf label box 1003 stores electronic shelf labels collected by the user. For example, electronic shelf labels that have been switched to price cards and electronic shelf labels with dead batteries. The portable device 1000 includes casters 162 that are rotatably mounted thereon.

[0058] The printing device 160 is a portable printer that receives printing instructions for price cards and spotters from the mobile terminal 150 and prints them. On the other hand, the mobile terminal 150 can also send printing instructions for POPs, which have a larger print size, to the management device 110, and have a printing device installed in a store office or the like print the POP via the management device 110. For either type of printing instruction, the management device 110 can determine the destination printing device based on the print format and type of paper medium. In this way, the control of the destination of the printing instruction may be performed by the management device 110 or by the mobile terminal 150.

[0059] <2.2. Example of operation> FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the shelf label management system according to the first embodiment.

[0060] First, in S101, the mobile terminal 150 acquires the shelf label identifier of the target electronic shelf label 140. Specifically, the user causes the mobile terminal 150 to read the barcode (shelf label identifier) ​​attached to the target electronic shelf label 140. The acquired shelf label identifier is transmitted to the management device 110.

[0061] Next, in S102, the mobile terminal 150 acquires the product identifier displayed on the target electronic shelf label 140. Specifically, the user causes the mobile terminal 150 to read the barcode (product identifier) ​​of the product displayed on the target electronic shelf label 140. The acquired product identifier is transmitted to the management device 110.

[0062] Next, in S103 , the update count determination unit 112 of the management device 110 obtains the update count of the target electronic shelf label 140 from the product information DB 300 .

[0063] Next, in S104, the update count determination unit 112 determines whether the acquired update count is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold. If it is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold, the process proceeds to S105, otherwise the process ends. If the update count is greater than the predetermined threshold, the electronic shelf label will continue to be used, and the process ends.

[0064] In S105, the print instruction unit 113 acquires, from the product information DB 300, product information of the product corresponding to the product identifier acquired in S102, and instructs the printing device 160 to print the acquired product information.

[0065] Next, in S106, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 updates the display content of the target electronic shelf label. For example, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 erases and initializes the display content of the target electronic shelf label. Alternatively, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 may update the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 to product information of the product to be displayed next. Furthermore, in cases where the electronic shelf label 140 is a rental machine, the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 may be updated to include information that the item is to be returned, as well as the return destination and date.

[0066] The user attaches the printed price cards to the product shelves and collects the updated electronic shelf labels. In this way, the electronic shelf label management system according to this embodiment switches electronic shelf labels that have been updated a predetermined number of times or less to price cards, thereby enabling the effective use of electronic shelf labels.

[0067] In addition, when a plurality of products are displayed on one electronic shelf label, that is, when a plurality of product identifiers are associated with one electronic shelf label, the print instruction unit 113 may not instruct printing and the electronic shelf label update unit 114 may not perform update. Alternatively, when a plurality of product identifiers are associated with one electronic shelf label, if at least one of the plurality of products identified by the plurality of product identifiers meets a predetermined condition, the print instruction unit 113 may not instruct printing and the electronic shelf label update unit 114 may not perform update. The predetermined condition may be, for example, at least one of the following: the product is a specific product (for example, a product that is not subject to change from an electronic shelf label to a price card) and the number of updates of the electronic shelf label for the product is greater than a predetermined value. In this embodiment, in such a case, the electronic shelf label may not be switched to a price card. Alternatively, the electronic shelf label may be switched to a price card for each product displayed in a horizontal or vertical line among the plurality of displayed products.

[0068] When changing from paper to electronic shelf labels, the display contents of the electronic shelf labels are already set in the cloud service or upper management device, such as the product (product code, product identifier), display format, selling price, additional information to be displayed, and instructions such as the lighting / flashing and lighting color of the LED lamp. The LED lamp will be described later. If a schedule for the display contents of a product is set, specifically, at the time of opening processing on the day when the display contents are changed from the special sale price to the regular price, etc., the display contents are updated only for the electronic shelf labels whose display contents are to be changed on that day or the next day, or for all electronic shelf labels (communication tests and location checks are performed, so in the event of a communication error, the location, malfunction, etc. must be checked). In that case, an initialization command is sent, followed by a display content instruction command (if no update is required, the same display contents are repeatedly instructed, and if the display contents are to be updated, an instruction for new display contents is sent). Electronic shelf labels whose display contents have been updated, such as the price, are visually checked by store staff before opening the store, so work efficiency can be improved by turning on and flashing LED lamps in different colors so that the updated contents can be clearly understood at a glance. Based on the information of the electronic shelf labels that have been checked, a command to stop the blinking or lighting of the LED lamp is sent only to the corresponding electronic shelf labels, and the check before opening the store is completed. To stop them, the host management device sends a stop command to all the repeaters at once to the electronic shelf labels (addressed to the electronic shelf label identifier) ​​whose display content is to be updated. Alternatively, it is possible to scan (read in the case of NFC) the identifier of the checked electronic shelf label with a mobile terminal such as a handheld terminal and send it to the host management device in real time or in batch processing, and check for forgotten confirmations by matching it with the identifier of the electronic shelf label that has completed updating in the host management device.

[0069] When a product code (product identifier) ​​is acquired by a mobile terminal such as a handheld terminal, the type and display format of the electronic shelf label linked to the product code are displayed on the screen, so that the store clerk can check them. At this time, if the format is displayable on that type of electronic shelf label, it is possible to change it on the spot, and even if the required additional information has not been set, it may be possible to input the same information as in the process of setting it on the higher-level management device. However, it is also possible to restrict changes to be made easily by using authority management, etc.

[0070] Naturally, the setting of the product code for one product and the display format for multiple products is controlled so that it cannot be set by the settings on the upper management device, so there is little risk of mistakes being made during on-site work (it is reported). However, when making changes based on authority, the mobile terminal is controlled so that items that cannot be set mutually cannot be selected or entered.

[0071] Also, for spare electronic shelf tags on-site, a display format capable of displaying multiple products can be selected, and when multiple products are set, restrictions can be placed on the simultaneous display of different categories, departments, classifications, etc. For example, restrictions can be placed so that meat and dairy products cannot be displayed simultaneously on the same electronic shelf tag. As another pattern, by referencing sales planning master (schedule), etc., it is also possible to make it possible to display multiple products from different categories simultaneously in the case of set matches, etc. Of course, products can also be forcibly selected by authority.

[0072] <2.3. Modifications> Modifications of the present embodiment will be described below. The modifications described below may be combined with the above embodiment and other modifications as appropriate.

[0073] (1) First Modification 12 shows yet another display example of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. A display example 1200 includes a star-shaped mark 1206 and date information 1207 in addition to a product name 1201, a barcode 1202 indicating a product identifier, additional information 1203, a selling price 1204, and a barcode 1205 indicating a shelf label identifier. The mark 1206 is a replacement guideline mark and indicates that the electronic shelf label has been updated less than or equal to a predetermined threshold. The date information 1207 indicates the date on which the mark 1206 was displayed. It is also possible to display only either the mark 1206 or the date information 1207. The shape of the mark 1206 is not limited to a star shape and may be another shape.

[0074] In this modification, the update count determination unit 112 of the management device 110 acquires the update count of each electronic shelf label from the electronic shelf label information database (DB) 500 at a predetermined timing (for example, once a month). Next, the update count determination unit 112 compares the acquired update count with a predetermined threshold, and updates the display of electronic shelf labels whose update count is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold so that the mark 1206 is displayed. This allows the user to easily check which electronic shelf labels should be switched to price cards.

[0075] Instead of the mark 1206, the acquired number of updates may be displayed on the electronic shelf label. In this case, the user may decide whether to switch from the electronic shelf label to the price card based on the number of updates displayed on the electronic shelf label. The date information 1207 may indicate the date on which the number of updates was displayed. Furthermore, the date information 1207 may indicate the scheduled date of completion of the work.

[0076] Furthermore, when a special sale or the like ends and the display contents of the electronic shelf label are updated, the number of updates of the electronic shelf label is determined, and if the number of updates is low, mark 1206 is displayed to encourage switching from the electronic shelf label to a price card. This is not limited to special sales, and can also be implemented in the same way when bundles, mix matches, and set matches are displayed as additional information.

[0077] (2) Second modified example 13 shows another example of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. An electronic shelf label 1300 according to this modification includes an LED lamp 1301. The LED lamp 1301 can change the emitted color in response to an instruction from the management device 1101, and can be lit up in a different emitted color.

[0078] The LED lamp 1301 can indicate the work instruction category to the store clerk. For example, the LED lamp 1301 is effective when the store clerk checks the electronic shelf label whose display content has been updated to the next day's information at night. Before opening the store, the store clerk visually inspects the electronic shelf label of the product whose selling price has been changed using the day's flyer, the update information list, etc., and by turning on the LED lamp 1301 of the electronic shelf label whose selling price has been changed, the target electronic shelf label can be easily found. In addition, when the display format is changed due to a special sale, specifically when displaying the product name and unit price of each product when switching to a multiple product display by a special sale mark or display division, and information such as bundle (bulk purchase), mix match, set match, and one item with three prices, the store clerk must check the additional information in addition to checking the price. In such a case, if the light emission colors of the LED lamps 1301 are differentiated between electronic shelf labels that only check the price and electronic shelf labels that check the price and the additional information, it is easy to divide the work among multiple store clerks and to perform the checking work efficiently. Furthermore, if the LED lamps 1301 of the electronic shelf labels that are the targets of the work of switching between electronic shelf labels and price cards are lit in different colors, it becomes easier to find the electronic shelf labels that are the targets of the work. Also, the store clerk can understand the work content just by checking the light color of the LED lamps 1301. Furthermore, the LED lamps 1301 may be lit according to the person in charge (store clerk).

[0079] <<3. Second embodiment>> Next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 14. The first embodiment described above is a specific embodiment, whereas the second embodiment is a more generalized embodiment.

[0080] <3.1. System configuration> 14 shows an example of a schematic configuration of a shelf label management system according to the second embodiment. The shelf label management system 1400 includes a management device 1401, a mobile terminal 1421, a printing device 1423, and an electronic shelf label 1424. The management device 1401 also includes a print instruction unit 1412, and an electronic shelf label update unit 1413.

[0081] The management device 1401 may be implemented with one or more processors, memory (eg, non-volatile memory and / or volatile memory), and / or a hard disk.

[0082] <3.2. Example of operation> An example of the operation of the shelf label management system 1400 according to the second embodiment will be described. According to the second embodiment, the mobile terminal 1421 (first acquisition means) acquires the shelf label identifier of the electronic shelf label and transmits it to the management device 1401. Furthermore, the mobile terminal 1421 (second acquisition means) acquires a product identifier and transmits it to the management device 1401. The management device 1401 (print instruction unit 1412) instructs the printing device 1423 to print product information corresponding to the product identifier according to the number of updates of the electronic shelf label corresponding to the acquired shelf label identifier. Furthermore, the management device 1401 (electronic shelf label update unit 1413) updates the display content of the electronic shelf label according to the number of updates.

[0083] -Relationship to the first embodiment As an example, a management device 1401, a mobile terminal 1421, a printer 1423, and an electronic shelf label 1424 included in a shelf label management system 1400 according to the second embodiment may respectively perform the operations of the management device 110, the mobile terminal 150, the printer 160, and the electronic shelf label 140 of the shelf label management system 100 according to the first embodiment. In this case, the description of the first embodiment also applies to the second embodiment. Note that the second embodiment is not limited to these examples.

[0084] The second embodiment has been described above. According to the second embodiment, for example, it becomes possible to effectively use electronic shelf labels.

[0085] <<4. Other embodiments>> Although the embodiments have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that these embodiments are merely examples and that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

[0086] For example, the steps in the processes described herein do not necessarily have to be performed chronologically in the order described. For example, the steps in the processes may be performed in an order different from that described or may be performed in parallel. Also, some of the steps in the processes may be removed and additional steps may be added to the processes.

[0087] Also, a method including the processing of the components (e.g., information acquisition unit, determination unit, and / or output unit) described in this specification may be provided, and a program for causing a processor (CPU) to execute the processing of the above components may be provided. Also, a non-transitory computer readable medium having the program recorded thereon may be provided. Naturally, such devices, modules, methods, programs, and non-transitory computer readable mediums are also included in the present invention.

[0088] <<5. Summary of the embodiment>> [Technical field] The present invention relates to a shelf label management system and method for managing shelf labels used to display products. [Background technology] In recent years, electronic shelf labels have come into widespread use in supermarkets, drug stores, electronics retailers, and other stores. Electronic shelf labels are equipped with small displays capable of displaying product information such as prices, and can receive and display the product information from a management device (see, for example, Patent Document 1). By using the electronic shelf labels, product displays can be easily changed. [Prior art document] [Patent documents] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-024757 A [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be solved by the invention] However, it would be difficult from a cost perspective to introduce electronic shelf labels to all products, so there is a demand for technology that can effectively utilize the limited number of electronic shelf labels. The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to provide a shelf label management system and method that enables effective use of electronic shelf labels. [Means for solving the problem] (1) One aspect of the present embodiment is a system including: a first acquisition unit that acquires a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label; The shelf label management system includes a second acquisition means for acquiring a product identifier, a print instruction means for instructing printing of product information corresponding to the product identifier according to the number of updates to the display content of the electronic shelf label corresponding to the shelf label identifier, and an update means for updating the display content of the electronic shelf label according to the number of updates. According to the above configuration, the electronic shelf labels can be used effectively. (2) One aspect of this embodiment is the shelf label management system described in (1), characterized in that, when the number of updates of the electronic shelf label is equal to or less than a predetermined value, the print instruction means issues an instruction to print, and the update means updates the display content. According to the above configuration, when the number of updates of the electronic shelf label is equal to or less than a predetermined value, price cards are printed and the electronic shelf label is updated. Therefore, for products for which there is little need to use electronic shelf labels, it is possible to switch from electronic shelf labels to price cards. (3) One aspect of this embodiment is the shelf label management system described in (1) or (2), wherein when a plurality of the product identifiers are associated with the electronic shelf label, the print instruction means does not instruct the printing and the update means does not update the display content. According to the above configuration, it is possible to prevent electronic shelf labels that display multiple products from being switched to price cards. (4) One aspect of this embodiment is a shelf label management system as described in (1) or (2), wherein when a plurality of product identifiers are associated with the electronic shelf label, if at least one of a plurality of products identified by the plurality of product identifiers meets a predetermined condition, the print instruction means does not instruct the printing, and the update means does not update the display content. According to the above configuration, when any one of a plurality of products displayed on the electronic shelf label is not subject to switching to a price card, switching to a price card can be prevented. (5) One aspect of this embodiment is the shelf label management system described in (4), wherein the predetermined condition includes at least one of the following: the product is a specific product; and the number of updates of the electronic shelf label for the product is greater than a predetermined value. According to the above configuration, similarly to (4), if any of the multiple products displayed on the electronic shelf label is not eligible for switching to a price card, switching to a price card can be prevented. (6) One aspect of the present embodiment is the shelf label management system described in any one of (1) to (5), wherein the update means initializes the display content of the electronic shelf label or updates it to product information of the next product to be displayed. According to the above configuration, the update process of the electronic shelf label to be switched can be performed efficiently. (7) One aspect of the present embodiment is a shelf label management system as described in any one of (1) to (6), further comprising an imaging means for imaging a printed material on which the product information is printed. According to the above configuration, the operation of switching to a price card can be recorded. (8) One aspect of this embodiment is the shelf label management system described in (7), further comprising a determination means for analyzing an image captured by the imaging means and determining whether it matches the content displayed on the electronic shelf label. According to the above configuration, it is possible to check whether the operation of switching to a price card has been performed correctly. (9) One aspect of this embodiment is a method including a first acquisition step of acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label, a second acquisition step of acquiring a product identifier, a print instruction step of instructing printing of product information corresponding to the product identifier in accordance with the number of updates to the display content of the electronic shelf label corresponding to the shelf label identifier, and an update step of updating the display content of the electronic shelf label in accordance with the number of updates. According to the above configuration, like (1), it becomes possible to effectively use the electronic shelf labels. [Explanation of symbols]

[0089] 100 Shelf Label Management System 110 Management device 120, 130 Transmitter / Receiver 140a, 140b, 140c electronic shelf label 150 Mobile Devices 160 Printing device

Claims

1. a first acquiring means for acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label; A second acquiring means for acquiring a product identifier; a print instruction means for instructing printing of product information corresponding to the product identifier in accordance with the number of updates of the display content of the electronic shelf label corresponding to the shelf label identifier; an update means for updating the display content of the electronic shelf label in accordance with the number of updates; A shelf label management system comprising:

2. 2. The shelf label management system according to claim 1, wherein the print instruction means instructs the printing and the update means updates the display contents when the update count of the electronic shelf label is equal to or less than a predetermined value.

3. 3. The shelf label management system according to claim 1, wherein when a plurality of the product identifiers are associated with the electronic shelf label, the print instruction unit does not issue the instruction to print and the update unit does not update the display content.

4. 3. The shelf label management system according to claim 1, wherein, when a plurality of product identifiers are associated with the electronic shelf label, if at least one product among a plurality of products respectively identified by the plurality of product identifiers satisfies a predetermined condition, the print instruction means does not issue the instruction to print and the update means does not update the display content.

5. 5. The shelf label management system according to claim 4, wherein the predetermined condition includes at least one of the following: the product is a specific product; and the number of updates of the electronic shelf label for the product is greater than a predetermined value.

6. 6. The shelf label management system according to claim 1, wherein the update unit initializes the display content of the electronic shelf label or updates it to product information of a product to be displayed next.

7. The shelf label management system according to claim 1 , further comprising an image capturing unit configured to capture an image of a printed matter on which the product information is printed.

8. 8. The shelf label management system according to claim 7, further comprising a determination unit that analyzes the image captured by the imaging unit and determines whether the image matches the content displayed on the electronic shelf label.

9. a first acquisition step of acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label; A second acquisition step of acquiring a product identifier; a print instruction step of instructing printing of product information corresponding to the product identifier in accordance with the number of updates of display content of the electronic shelf label corresponding to the shelf label identifier; an updating step of updating display contents of the electronic shelf label in accordance with the number of updates; The method includes:

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