Support apparatus and support program

Abstract

To provide a support apparatus and a support program for constructing a system with desired performance.SOLUTION: A support apparatus for supporting construction of a system that reads a RF tag with a reader, includes a processor. The processor acquires first information including at least information on a RF tag, information on a reader, information on a use form of the reader, and information on receiving signal intensity at which the reader reads the RF tag, inputs first information to a model configured to receive first information and output second information on settings for reading RF tags, to acquire second information, and outputs the second information to an output device and / or a setting apparatus which configures settings for reading RF tags.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an assistance device and an assistance program, and more particularly to an assistance device and an assistance program for assisting in the construction of an RFID system (Radio Frequency IDentification System). [Background technology]

[0002] RFID systems are known as systems that use radio waves (electromagnetic waves) to read and write data from tags without contact. In recent years, RFID systems have been increasingly introduced in a variety of fields.

[0003] Because RFID systems use radio waves, they are easily affected by the environment in which they are used, how they are used, etc. For this reason, a high level of know-how is required to build a system with sufficient performance.

[0004] Patent document 1 describes a method for optimizing the deployment of RFID devices by analyzing the communication area in which the RFID devices are deployed, checking the read rates of RF tags associated with various placement sets on the target object, and selecting the best deployment option based on the analysis results and the read rates of all the confirmed RF tags. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2010-515132 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, RFID has a wide variety of uses and environments in which it is used, so it is not realistic to analyze the communication area and check the readability every time the use or environment changes.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and has an object to provide a support device and a support program that can build a system with desired performance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] (1) A support device for supporting the construction of a system for reading RF tags with a reader, the support device comprising a processor, the processor acquiring first information including at least information on the RF tag, information on the reader, information on how the reader is used, and information on the received signal strength when the RF tag is read by the reader, and for a model that outputs second information related to settings for reading RF tags when the first information is input, the processor inputs the first information to acquire the second information and outputs the second information to an output device and / or a setting device that performs settings related to reading RF tags.

[0009] (2) The assistance device according to (1), wherein the model is a trained model generated by machine learning using the first information as an explanatory variable and the second information as a target variable.

[0010] (3) The assistance device according to (1) or (2), wherein the first information further includes information on a target to which the system is to be applied.

[0011] (4) The support device according to (3), wherein the information of the target to which the system is applied includes at least information of the target to which an RF tag is affixed and information of the reading format of the RF tag.

[0012] (5) An assistance device as described in (3) or (4), in which the processor outputs questions regarding a target to which the system is to be applied to an output device, accepts input of answers to the questions from an input device, and obtains information about the target to which the system is to be applied based on the input answers.

[0013] (6) An assistance device described in any one of (1) to (5), wherein when the processor outputs second information to the output device, the processor accepts a correction to the second information from the input device, corrects the second information, and outputs the corrected second information to the setting device.

[0014] (7) An assistance device described in any one of (1) to (6), wherein the processor outputs questions regarding the reading results to an output device, accepts input of answers to the questions from an input device, modifies the second information based on the input answers, and outputs the modified second information to the setting device.

[0015] (8) The support device according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the first information further includes information on the environment in which the system is used.

[0016] (9) The support device according to (8), wherein the processor acquires an image of the environment in which the system is used, analyzes the image, and acquires information about the environment in which the system is used.

[0017] (10) An assistance device described in (8) or (9), in which the processor outputs questions regarding the environment in which the system is used to an output device, accepts input of answers to the questions from an input device, and obtains information about the environment in which the system is used based on the input answers.

[0018] (11) An assistance device according to any one of (1) to (10), wherein the first information further includes information on the reading result of a specific RF tag.

[0019] (12) The support device according to any one of (1) to (11), wherein the second information includes at least information on the setting of the radio wave output of the reader.

[0020] (13) The support device described in (12), wherein the second information further includes at least one of a flag setting, a session setting, a radio wave irradiation time setting, a frequency band setting, and a threshold setting for the received signal strength to be read.

[0021] (14) An assistance device described in any one of (1) to (13), in which information on the reader's usage pattern is obtained by selecting one from a usage pattern for reading a single RF tag, a usage pattern for reading multiple RF tags at once, and a usage pattern for searching for a specific RF tag.

[0022] (15) A support program that causes a computer to realize a function of supporting the construction of a system for reading RF tags with a reader, the support program causing a computer to realize the following functions: a function of acquiring first information including at least information on the RF tag, information on the reader, information on how the reader is used, and information on the received signal strength when the RF tag is read with the reader; and a function of inputting the first information and acquiring the second information for a model that outputs second information regarding settings for reading RF tags when the first information is input; and a function of outputting the second information to an output device and / or a setting device that sets settings regarding reading RF tags. Effect of the Invention

[0023] According to the present invention, a system with desired performance can be constructed. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of an RFID system and a support system for supporting the construction of the system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a terminal device. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a system construction support device. [Figure 4] Block diagram of main functions of a terminal device as a setting device [Diagram 5] A diagram showing an example of a basic information input screen. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen. [Figure 7] Block diagram of the main functions of the system construction support device [Figure 8] 1 is a flowchart showing an example of a process flow for optimizing settings of radio wave output of a reader / writer using a support system. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display when acquiring information on the target to which the RFID system is to be applied in the form of a question. [Figure 10] A diagram showing an example of a screen display when obtaining information about the results of a reading test in the form of questions. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0025] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0026] Here, we will explain an example of optimizing settings for reading RF tags (Radio Frequency tags) when the use of RFID has already been determined and the devices to be used (RFID devices and system-related devices, etc.) have also already been determined. RFID uses are not particularly limited. For example, there are various uses such as process management in manufacturing, incoming and outgoing processing in logistics, inventory management, and entrance and exit management in offices, etc.

[0027] [RFID system and support system] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an RFID system and a support system for supporting the construction of the system.

[0028] [RFID system] As shown in FIG. 1, the RFID system 1 is mainly composed of an RF tag 10, a reader / writer 20, and a processing system 30.

[0029] The RF tag 10 is an information medium that uses radio waves to read and write data from and to a built-in memory in a non-contact manner. The RF tag 10 is also called an IC tag (Integrated Circuit tag), a wireless IC tag, a wireless tag, an RFID tag, an electronic tag, etc. The RF tag itself is well known, so a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0030] RF tags 10 are classified into a number of types depending on their configuration, the frequency band they use, etc. For example, they are classified into passive tags, active tags, semi-passive tags, etc. depending on whether they have a battery. They are also classified into UHF tags (Ultra High Frequency tags), NFC tags (Near Field Communication tags), etc. depending on the frequency band they use. The RF tag 10 to be used is appropriately selected depending on the application, the usage environment, etc.

[0031] The reader / writer 20 is a device that reads and writes data to the RF tag 10. The reader / writer 20 has at least an antenna and a control unit, and transmits and receives radio waves to the RF tag 10 via the antenna. The control unit generally controls the operation of the reader / writer 20 (transmission and reception of radio waves, output adjustment, transmission and reception of data with the processing system, etc.). The reader / writer itself is well known, so a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0032] The reader / writer 20 is broadly classified into a handheld type and a stationary type. The handheld type is a reader / writer that can be carried around and used. The stationary type is a reader / writer that is stationary in a specific location and used. The reader / writer 20 is appropriately selected according to the application and usage environment. The reader / writer 20 is also selected according to the type of RF tag 10 to be used. In particular, a reader / writer that corresponds to the frequency band of the RF tag 10 to be used is selected. In this embodiment, the reader / writer 20 is an example of a reader.

[0033] The processing system 30 is a system (including equipment) that utilizes information read from the RF tag 10. The processing system is also referred to as a host system. The processing system 30 is constructed appropriately according to the use of RFID, etc. For example, when RFID is used for process management, the processing system 30 is constructed as a system that manages the processing process based on information obtained from the RF tag 10. Also, when RFID is used for inventory management, the processing system 30 is constructed as a system that manages inventory based on information obtained from the RF tag 10. Also, when RFID is used for entrance and exit management, the processing system 30 is constructed as a system that manages entrance and exit based on information obtained from the RF tag 10.

[0034] The processing system 30 has a terminal device 100 connected to the reader / writer 20. The connection between the reader / writer 20 and the terminal device 100 is not particularly limited. It may be a wired system or a wireless system. It is sufficient that they are connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other. Information read from the RF tag 10 is taken from the reader / writer 20 to the processing system 30 via the terminal device 100. Information to be written to the RF tag 10 is transmitted to the reader / writer 20 via the terminal device 100. That is, the terminal device 100 functions as a contact point with the reader / writer 20 in the processing system 30. The terminal device 100 also functions as a setting device that performs various settings regarding the reading of the RF tag 10 by the reader / writer 20.

[0035] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the terminal device.

[0036] As an example, in this embodiment, the terminal device 100 is configured as a tablet computer (tablet terminal). That is, the tablet terminal functions as the terminal device 100 by executing a predetermined program (including middleware).

[0037] As shown in FIG. 2, the terminal device 100 includes a processor 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102 storing a basic input / output program and the like, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103 used as a work area for the processor 101, an auxiliary storage device 104 storing various programs including an operating system executed by the processor 101 and various data and the like and functioning as storage, a display 105, a touch panel 106 detecting a touch operation on the display screen, a GPS (Global Positioning Systems) receiving unit 107 receiving a GPS signal including position information (latitude, longitude, and altitude), a camera unit 108 including a photographing lens and an image sensor and electronically photographing an image, a microphone unit 109 including a microphone and inputting audio, a speaker unit 110 including a speaker and outputting audio, and a 5th Generation Mobile Communication System (5G), a 4th Generation Mobile Communication System (4th Generation Mobile Communication System (4G), and a 5th Generation Mobile Communication System (5G). The device includes a communication unit 111 that wirelessly communicates with a nearest base station or the like using a wireless communication system such as a 4G (Radio Frequency Receiver) system, a short-distance wireless communication unit 112 that wirelessly communicates with an external device using short-distance wireless communication in accordance with a predetermined communication standard, and a sensor unit 113 including various sensors such as a geomagnetic sensor, a gyrocompass, and an acceleration sensor. The processor 101 may be, for example, a central processing unit (CPU). The auxiliary storage device 104 may be, for example, an electrically erasable and programmable ROM (EEPROM) or a flash memory such as a solid state drive (SSD). The display 105 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode display (OLED display), or the like.

[0038] In this embodiment, the terminal device 100 is connected to the reader / writer 20 via the short-range wireless communication unit 112 so as to be able to communicate with each other. The communication standard in the short-range wireless communication unit 112 is not particularly limited. As an example, Bluetooth (registered trademark) is adopted. Other standards such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark) and NFC (Near Field Communication) can also be adopted.

[0039] Middleware is installed in a computer (a tablet terminal in this embodiment) constituting the terminal device 100. The middleware enables the terminal device 100 to realize functions such as a function for controlling the reader / writer 20, a function for deleting duplicate data, a function for filtering read data, a function for transmitting read data to an application (such as a database), and the like.

[0040] [Support system] The support system 2 supports the construction of the RFID system 1. As described above, in this embodiment, in a state where the use of RFID has already been determined and the device to be used has also already been determined, the support system 2 supports the optimization of settings related to reading the RF tag 10. In other words, the support system 2 supports the adjustment (tuning) of settings related to reading the RF tag 10 so that the settings are optimized.

[0041] 1, the support system 2 of the present embodiment includes a terminal device 100 and a system construction support device 200. In the support system 2, the terminal device 100 and the system construction support device 200 work together to support the adjustment (tuning) of settings related to reading of the RF tag 10. The terminal device 100 and the system construction support device 200 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other via a network NW such as the Internet.

[0042] [Terminal Device] As described above, the terminal device 100 functions as a setting device that performs various settings related to reading of the RF tag 10 by the reader / writer 20.

[0043] [System construction support device] The system construction support device 200 acquires required information (system information) via the terminal device 100, and generates information for optimizing specific settings (parameters) related to reading the RF tag 10 based on the acquired information. That is, it generates information on optimal setting values ​​for the setting items. As an example, in this embodiment, it generates information on setting values ​​for optimizing the radio wave output of the reader / writer 20.

[0044] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the system construction support device.

[0045] As an example, in this embodiment, the system construction support device 200 is configured by a computer. That is, the computer functions as the system construction support device by executing a predetermined program (support program).

[0046] As shown in FIG. 3, the system construction support device 200 includes a processor 201, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, an auxiliary storage device 204, an input device 205, a display device 206, and a communication interface (I / F) 207, etc.

[0047] For example, a CPU is used as the processor 201. Various programs including an operating system executed by the processor 201, various data, and the like are stored in the ROM 202 or the auxiliary storage device 204.

[0048] The auxiliary storage device 204 constitutes a storage unit of the system construction support device 200. For example, a hard disk drive (HDD), an SSD, or the like is adopted as the auxiliary storage device 204.

[0049] The input device 205 constitutes an operation unit of the system construction support device 200. The input device 205 is constituted by, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, and the like.

[0050] The display device 206 constitutes a display unit of the system construction support device 200. For the display device 206, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or the like is adopted.

[0051] The communication interface 207 constitutes a communication unit of the system construction support device 200. The communication interface 207 has a configuration capable of mutually communicating with the terminal device 100 at least via the network NW.

[0052] [Functions of the terminal device as a setting device] As described above, the terminal device 100 functions as a setting device that performs various settings related to reading the RF tag 10. Fig. 4 is a block diagram of main functions of the terminal device as a setting device.

[0053] 4, the terminal device 100, as a setting device, has functions such as a system information collecting unit 100A, a basic information input accepting unit 100B, a system information transmitting unit 100C, an optimal setting information acquiring unit 100D, a setting input accepting unit 100E, and a setting processing unit 100F. The functions of each unit are realized by the processor 101 executing a predetermined program.

[0054] The system information collecting unit 100A collects information on the RFID system 1 to be constructed. The collected information is information necessary for the processing performed by the system construction support device 200. As described later, the system construction support device 200 performs processing to estimate information for optimizing specific settings related to reading the RF tag 10. The system information collecting unit 100A collects information necessary for the estimation processing performed by the system construction support device 200. The information collected by the system information collecting unit 100A is referred to as "system information." In this embodiment, the system information includes at least (A) information on the RF tag 10, (B) information on the reader / writer 20, (C) information on the usage form of the reader / writer 20, and (D) information on the received signal strength (Received Signal Strength Indicator: RSSI) when the RF tag 10 is read by the reader / writer 20. In this embodiment, the system information is an example of the first information.

[0055] The information on the RF tag 10 is information for identifying the RF tag 10 to be used in the RFID system 1 to be constructed. There is no limit to the type of information as long as it can identify the RF tag 10 to be used. For example, the product name, model number, etc. can be used.

[0056] The information on the reader / writer 20 is information for identifying the reader / writer 20 to be used in the RFID system 1 to be constructed. As long as the information can identify the reader / writer 20 to be used, the type of information does not matter. For example, the product name, model number, etc. can be used.

[0057] The information on the usage mode of the reader / writer 20 is information on how the reader / writer 20 will be used in the RFID system 1 to be constructed. The usage modes of the reader / writer 20 include a usage mode for reading a single RF tag 10, a usage mode for reading multiple RF tags 10 all at once, and a usage mode for searching for a specific RF tag. The optimal settings change depending on the usage mode. For this reason, the information on the usage mode of the reader / writer 20 is acquired.

[0058] RSSI in RFID refers to the strength of radio waves sent back from the RF tag 10 to the reader / writer 20 when the RF tag 10 receives the radio waves transmitted from the reader / writer 20. RSSI information is obtained when the RF tag 10 is read by the reader / writer 20 in an actual usage environment or an environment close to the actual usage environment. Therefore, the RSSI information is obtained from the reader / writer 20. The reader / writer 20 is also provided with a function for measuring RSSI.

[0059] The system information collection unit 100A acquires RSSI information from the reader / writer 20, which is part of the system information, and acquires other information as basic information from the basic information input reception unit 100B.

[0060] The basic information input receiving unit 100B receives an input of basic information related to the RFID system 1 from a user. The basic information is composed of system information excluding RSSI information. In this embodiment, a predetermined input screen is displayed on the display 105 to receive an input of the basic information related to the RFID system 1 from a user.

[0061] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a basic information input screen.

[0062] Fig. 5 shows an example of accepting input of information on the RF tag 10, information on the reader / writer 20, and information on the usage pattern of the reader / writer 20. As shown in Fig. 5, an input field 105a for input of information on the RF tag 10, an input field 105b for input of information on the reader / writer 20, and an input field 105c for input of information on the usage pattern of the reader / writer 20 are displayed on the screen of the display 105.

[0063] The input field 105a for information on the RF tag 10 and the input field 105b for information on the reader / writer 20 are respectively composed of manufacturer input fields 105a1, 105b1 and product name (model name) input fields 105a2, 105b2.

[0064] The user uses the touch panel 106 to input predetermined information into each of the input fields 105a to 105c. For input, for example, a method of using a pull-down (drop-down list) to select from predetermined options can be adopted. For example, a method of using a pull-down to select one of "single reading", "batch reading" and "search" for the usage mode of the reader / writer 20 can be adopted. Note that "single reading" is a usage mode in which a single RF tag 10 is read. Furthermore, "batch reading" is a usage mode in which multiple RF tags 10 are read at once. Furthermore, "search" is a usage mode in which a specific RF tag 10 is searched for and examined.

[0065] A similar method of inputting information about the RF tag 10 and the reader / writer 20 using a pull-down menu can also be adopted. In this case, it is preferable to configure the system so that the user selects "manufacturer" and then "product name" in that order, and when "manufacturer" is selected, the selection of "product name" is limited to products (models) of the selected manufacturer.

[0066] The system information transmission unit 100C transmits the system information collected by the system information collection unit 100A to the system construction support device 200.

[0067] The optimal setting information acquisition unit 100D acquires optimal setting information from the system construction support device 200. This optimal setting information is information on setting values ​​(optimal settings) that optimize specific setting items related to reading the RF tag 10. As described above, in this embodiment, information on setting values ​​that optimize the radio wave output of the reader / writer 20 is acquired as optimal setting information. The optimal setting information is generated by the system construction support device 200 based on the system information. The generation of the optimal setting information will be described later.

[0068] The setting input receiving unit 100E receives input of various settings related to reading the RF tag 10. In this embodiment, a predetermined setting screen is displayed on the display 105 to receive input of various settings from the user.

[0069] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the setting screen.

[0070] 6 shows an example in which (1) radio wave output setting, (2) flag setting, (3) session setting, (4) radio wave irradiation time setting, (5) frequency band setting, and (6) threshold setting of received signal strength to be read are possible. In this case, an input field 105d for input information of radio wave output setting, an input field 105e for input information of flag setting, an input field 105f for input information of session setting, an input field 105g for input information of radio wave irradiation time setting, an input field 105h for input information of frequency band setting, and an input field 105i for input information of threshold of received signal strength to be read are displayed on the screen of the display 105. The user inputs desired setting information into each of the input fields 105d to 105i using the touch panel 106. For input, for example, a method of selecting from predetermined selection items using a pull-down menu can be adopted.

[0071] (1) Radio wave output "Radio wave output" is the strength of radio waves transmitted from the reader / writer 20. In general, the communication distance (readable range) increases as the radio wave output increases.

[0072] The item "radio wave output" is set, for example, by the user selecting a desired setting value within a predetermined range, or by the user directly inputting a numerical value.

[0073] (2) Flag "Flag (inventory flag)" is one of the functions that RF tags have, and indicates whether the RF tag has been read or not. If the RF tag has not yet been read, the flag state is A. When the RF tag receives radio waves from a reader / writer and is read (inventory), the RF tag changes to flag B. After changing to flag B, when a certain amount of time has passed, the RF tag automatically changes to flag A. By setting the flag, it is possible to control in which state the RF tag is read.

[0074] The "Flag Setting" item is set by selecting one from, for example, "Flag A," "Flag B," and "Flag AB."

[0075] "Flag A" is a setting that reads only RF tags with flag A, i.e., RF tags that have not yet been read. "Flag A" is used, for example, when you do not want to read duplicate tags.

[0076] "Flag B" is a setting that reads only RF tags with flag B, i.e., RF tags that have already been read. "Flag B" is used, for example, when multiple reader / writers are used, in order to read an RF tag that has already been read by another reader / writer.

[0077] "Flag AB" is a setting that reads the RF tag regardless of the state of the flag. In other words, it is a setting that reads the RF tag regardless of whether the reading has been completed or not.

[0078] (3) Session The "session" specifies how to maintain the state from flag B back to flag A.

[0079] The "session setting" item is set by selecting one from, for example, "session 0," "session 1," and "session 2 / session 3."

[0080] "Session 0" is a setting in which, after the RF tag changes from flag A to flag B, it maintains flag B while receiving radio waves from the reader / writer, and immediately returns to flag A when the radio waves are lost.

[0081] "Session 1" is a setting in which, after the RF tag changes from flag A to flag B, it returns to flag A within 0.5 to 5 seconds regardless of whether or not radio waves are received.

[0082] "Session 2 / Session 3" is a setting in which, after the RF tag changes from flag A to flag B, it maintains the flag B state while receiving radio waves from the reader / writer, and maintains the flag B state for at least two seconds even if the radio waves are cut off.

[0083] (4) Radio wave exposure time "Radio wave irradiation time" is the interval between radio waves emitted from the reader / writer. Generally, the higher the radio wave irradiation time setting (in milliseconds), the faster the reading speed.

[0084] The item "Radio wave irradiation time setting" is set by the user by selecting a desired setting value (time setting value) within a predetermined time range (for example, between 40 and 400 milliseconds), or by the user directly inputting a numerical value.

[0085] (5) Frequency band The "frequency band" is the frequency band of the radio waves to be used. The "frequency band setting" item is set, for example, by selecting one from a number of predefined channels.

[0086] (6) Setting the threshold for reading received signal strength The "received signal strength threshold" refers to the threshold of the received signal strength (RSSI) of radio waves used to read RF tags. Radio waves above the threshold are used to read RF tags. In other words, radio waves below the threshold are not used for reading even if they are received by the reader / writer 20. In other words, they are treated as not having been received.

[0087] The item "Setting of threshold value of received signal strength" is set by the user by selecting a desired setting value within a predetermined range of values, or by the user directly inputting a value.

[0088] A default setting is defined for each setting item, and therefore, unless the user performs any particular setting operation, the default setting is applied.

[0089] The setting processing unit 100F performs a process of reflecting the received and acquired settings when it receives a change in settings from a user and when it obtains information on optimal settings from the system construction support device 200. The settings are reflected, for example, via middleware.

[0090] [System construction support device functions] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of main functions of the system construction support device.

[0091] 7, the system construction support device 200 mainly has functions of a system information acquisition unit 200A, an estimation unit 200B, and an optimal setting information transmission unit 200C. The functions of each unit are realized by the processor 201 executing a predetermined program (support program).

[0092] The system information acquisition unit 200A acquires system information. As described above, the system information is transmitted from the terminal device 100 to the system construction support device 200 via the network NW. The system information acquisition unit 200A receives information transmitted from the terminal device 100 and acquires the system information. The acquired system information is added to the estimation unit 200B.

[0093] The estimation unit 200B estimates a setting value (optimum setting) that optimizes a specific setting item with respect to reading of the RF tag 10 by the reader / writer 20. In this embodiment, the optimum setting of the radio wave output of the reader / writer 20 is estimated. The estimation unit 200B estimates the optimum setting of the radio wave output of the reader / writer 20 based on the system information acquired by the system information acquisition unit 200A. The estimation unit 200B in this embodiment estimates the optimum setting of the radio wave output of the reader / writer 20 using the trained model M. In this embodiment, the information on the optimum setting of the radio wave output of the reader / writer 20 is an example of the second information.

[0094] The trained model M is generated by machine learning using system information as explanatory variables and optimal settings as objective variables. The machine learning algorithm is not particularly limited. Known machine learning algorithms such as linear regression, Gaussian process regression, support vector regression, decision tree, regression tree, ensemble method, bagging method, boosting method, gradient boosting method, and neural network can be adopted.

[0095] The trained model M may be generated by the system construction support device 200 or by another device (computer). The device (learning device) that generates the trained model M executes machine learning with a specified machine learning algorithm using a data set of explanatory variables and target variables, and generates a model that estimates optimal settings from system information. The generated model is imported into the system construction support device 200 as the trained model M and stored in the auxiliary storage device 204. The estimation unit 200B uses the trained model M stored in the auxiliary storage device 204 to estimate optimal settings for the radio wave output of the reader / writer 20 from the system information.

[0096] The optimum setting information transmitting unit 200C transmits the information on the optimum setting estimated by the estimation unit 200B as optimum setting information to the terminal device 100. In this embodiment, information on the optimum setting of the radio wave output of the reader / writer 20 is transmitted to the terminal device 100 as optimum setting information.

[0097] [Functions of the support system] As described above, the support system 2 of this embodiment is used to optimize the settings of the radio wave output of the reader / writer 20 in a state in which the use and usage environment of the RFID have already been determined and the RFID device and system-related devices to be actually used on-site have already been selected. In other words, it is used to support the adjustment of the settings so that the radio wave output is optimized.

[0098] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a process flow for optimizing the radio wave output setting of a reader / writer using the support system.

[0099] First, the user inputs basic information of the RFID system 1 in the terminal device 100 (step S101). In this embodiment, the basic information of the RFID system 1 includes information on the RF tag 10 to be used, information on the reader / writer 20 to be used, and information on the mode of use of the reader / writer 20. Each piece of information is input by displaying a predetermined input screen on the display 105 of the terminal device 100 (see FIG. 5).

[0100] Next, the user inputs settings related to reading (step S102). Note that this process is not necessarily required. It is performed as necessary, such as when changing default settings. The settings are input by displaying a predetermined setting screen on the display 105 of the terminal device 100 (see FIG. 6). The terminal device 100 reflects the input settings based on an instruction from the user to reflect the settings (step S103).

[0101] This completes the preparation for adjustment. After this, the user performs a reading test (step S104). That is, the user actually performs an operation to read the RF tag 10 with the reader / writer 20. The test is performed in an actual usage environment or an environment similar to the actual usage environment. RSSI information is obtained by this reading test.

[0102] After the reading test, the terminal device 100 collects system information (step S105). In this embodiment, the system information collected includes information on the RF tag 10, information on the reader / writer 20, information on the usage pattern of the reader / writer 20, and RSSI information. Of these, the information on the RF tag 10, information on the reader / writer 20, and information on the usage pattern of the reader / writer 20 is information input by the user as basic information. Meanwhile, the RSSI information is information obtained from the reader / writer 20 obtained in the reading test.

[0103] The terminal device 100 transmits the collected system information to the system construction support device 200 (step S106).

[0104] The system construction support device 200 receives system information transmitted from the terminal device 100 (step S201). As a result, the system construction support device 200 acquires information necessary for estimating optimal settings.

[0105] Based on the acquired system information, the system construction support device 200 uses the trained model M to estimate setting values ​​(optimum settings) that optimize the radio wave output of the reader / writer 20 (step S202).

[0106] The system construction support device 200 transmits information on the estimated optimum setting of the radio wave output of the reader / writer 20 (optimum setting information) to the terminal device 100 (step S203).

[0107] The terminal device 100 receives the optimal setting information transmitted from the system construction support device 200 (step S107). As a result, the terminal device 100 acquires information necessary for adjusting (tuning) the radio wave output of the reader / writer 20. The terminal device 100 reflects the acquired setting value in the setting of the radio wave output of the reader / writer 20 (step S108).

[0108] After the settings are updated, the user performs a read test again (step S109). That is, the user actually performs an operation to read the RF tag 10 with the reader / writer 20.

[0109] The user evaluates the test results and judges whether the performance desired by the user has been obtained (step S110). For example, the user judges whether reading was possible with the desired accuracy, whether the RF tag that the user wanted to read was read, whether reading of the RF tag that the user did not want to read was prevented, whether reading was possible in the desired range or position, whether reading of the RF tag that the user did not want to read was prevented, etc.

[0110] When the user determines that the desired performance has been obtained, the user ends the adjustment (tuning) work. In other words, when the user determines that a system with the performance that the user desires has been constructed, the user ends the adjustment work.

[0111] On the other hand, if it is determined that the desired reading has not been achieved, the user continues to carry out the adjustment work. In this case, the processes of steps S107 to S110 and steps S201 to S203 are carried out. That is, since the RSSI also changes when the radio wave output is changed, new system information after the test is collected and transmitted to the system construction support device 200. The system construction support device 200 receives the system information transmitted from the terminal device 100, and estimates the optimum setting of the radio wave output of the reader / writer 20 based on the received system information. Then, the terminal device 100 transmits the newly estimated optimum setting information (optimum setting information) of the radio wave output of the reader / writer 20 to the terminal device 100. The terminal device 100 receives the optimum setting information transmitted from the system construction support device 200, and reflects the newly estimated setting value in the setting of the radio wave output of the reader / writer 20. After the setting is reflected, a reading test is carried out again, and the result is evaluated. These processes are repeatedly executed until the desired reading performance is obtained. In this way, it is possible to approach the desired performance.

[0112] As described above, according to the support system 2 of this embodiment, it is possible to optimize the radio wave output settings of the reader / writer 20 simply by inputting required information and conducting a reading test. This makes it possible to build an RFID system 1 with desired performance even without specialized knowledge, experience, know-how, etc. about RFID.

[0113] [Variations] [System Information] (1) Other examples of system information In the above embodiment, (A) information on the RF tag 10, (B) information on the reader / writer 20, (C) information on the usage mode of the reader / writer 20, and (D) information on the RSSI are used as system information, but the information used as system information is not limited to this. As described above, the system information is used to estimate the optimal setting. Therefore, it is preferable to use information that is useful for estimating the optimal setting as system information.

[0114] For example, information on the target to which the RFID system 1 is applied, information on the environment in which the RFID system 1 is used, etc. can be added to the system information.

[0115] Information on the object to which the RFID system 1 is applied includes, for example, information on the object to which the RF tag 10 is affixed, and information on the reading format of the RF tag 10. Information on the object to which the RF tag 10 is affixed includes information on the material and size of the object to which the RF tag 10 is affixed. Information on the reading format of the RF tag 10 is information on how the RF tag 10 is to be read by the reader / writer 20. For example, this includes information on whether the reader / writer 20 is used in a stationary position, whether the reader / writer 20 is held by hand, and so on.

[0116] The information on the environment in which the RFID system 1 is used is so-called information on the surrounding environment, and includes, for example, information on the presence or absence of a noise source in the vicinity, the presence or absence of a radio wave reflector, the presence or absence of a radio wave absorber, etc. Furthermore, if a noise source, a radio wave reflector, a radio wave absorber, etc. are present in the vicinity, information on their shapes, distances, etc. is also included.

[0117] Regarding information on the target to which the RFID system 1 is applied and / or information on the environment in which the RFID system 1 is used, the necessary information can be obtained from the user in the form of a question or a dialogue, for example. That is, questions about the necessary information can be presented to the user, and the user can input the answers to obtain the necessary information. Specifically, the questions are displayed on the display 105 of the terminal device 100, and the user inputs the answers via the touch panel 106. The answers may be directly input by the user as text, or multiple options may be presented and the user can select from the options.

[0118] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display when information on an object to which the RFID system is applied is acquired in the form of a question. Fig. 9 shows an example of acquiring information on the material and size of the object to which the RF tag 10 is affixed. The user inputs answers to the questions displayed on the screen in an answer field. A method may be adopted in which multiple options are presented in a pull-down menu and the user is allowed to select and input an answer.

[0119] Furthermore, the system information may include information on the results of a read test. For example, a read test may be performed in a predetermined manner, and information on the results may be included in the system information. For example, information on the read results of a specific RF tag may be included in the system information. For example, an RF tag that is to be read and an RF tag that is not to be read may be prepared as specific RF tags, and the information on the read results for each may be used as system information. Also, for example, an RF tag may be placed in a position or range that is to be read, and the information on the read results may be used as system information. Or, an RF tag may be placed in a position or range that is not to be read, and the information on the read results may be used as system information.

[0120] Furthermore, a method for acquiring the necessary information on the results of the reading test in a dialogue or question format can be adopted. For example, after the reading test is performed, predetermined questions are presented to the user, and the necessary information is acquired by obtaining the answers from the user. In this case, the questions are displayed on the display 105 of the terminal device 100, and the user inputs the answers via the touch panel 106.

[0121] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display when information about the result of the reading test is obtained in the form of a question.

[0122] As shown in the figure, predetermined questions are displayed on a display 105. The user inputs answers to each question via a touch panel 106. It is preferable that the questions be in a simple format. For example, as in the example shown in FIG. 10, it is preferable that the answer can be given in a binary answer format of YES or NO. This makes it easier to input the required information.

[0123] (2) Other examples of how to get system information As described above, for information used as system information, a method of acquiring necessary information in a dialogue or question format can be adopted. In this case, multiple questions may be asked to acquire specific information. For example, in the case of acquiring information on the reading mode of the RF tag 10 as one of the system information, a method can be adopted in which multiple questions are presented to the user, and the reading mode desired by the user or the reading mode actually performed by the user is estimated from the answers to acquire the information. A trained model can be used for this estimation. Also, a method can be adopted in which a table is used to estimate the reading mode of the RF tag 10 from a combination of answer results.

[0124] When a plurality of questions are asked, predetermined questions may be answered in a predetermined order, or the questions may be dynamically changed according to the contents of previous answers.

[0125] Necessary information regarding the environment in which the system is used may be obtained from an image. That is, an image of the environment in which the system is used is acquired, and the image is analyzed to recognize the environment in which the system is used and obtain the necessary information. For example, the usage environment (e.g., outdoors, indoors, etc.) and surrounding objects (e.g., metal shelves, packaging, etc.) can be recognized from an image of the environment and used as information on the environment in which the system is used. In addition, it is also possible to recognize the reader / writer and RF tag from the image and obtain information on the positional relationship between them (including distance information) and information on the presence or absence of obstacles.

[0126] A trained model can be used for image recognition. The image recognition process and the process of extracting necessary information may be performed by the terminal device 100 or the system construction support device 200.

[0127] Similarly, necessary information can be extracted and acquired from an image of an object to which the RFID system 1 is applied. For example, in order to acquire information such as the material, size, etc. of an object to which the RF tag 10 is affixed, an image of the object is acquired, and the image is analyzed to estimate the material, size, etc. of the object, and the necessary information is acquired.

[0128] [Adjustment target] In the above embodiment, the case where the reading of the RF tag 10 is optimized by adjusting the setting of the radio wave output of the reader / writer 20 has been described, but the adjustment target is not limited to this. Instead of or in addition to the setting of the radio wave output of the reader / writer 20, a configuration may be adopted in which a flag setting, a session setting, a radio wave irradiation time setting, a frequency band setting, a threshold setting of the received signal strength to be read, etc. are adjusted. In this case, the system construction support device 200 individually estimates setting values ​​that optimize these settings based on the system information. In this case, the system construction support device 200 appropriately prepares a model for estimating the optimal setting value of the flag from the system information, a model for estimating the optimal setting value of the session, a model for estimating the optimal setting value of the radio wave irradiation time, a model for estimating the optimal setting of the frequency band, a model for estimating the optimal setting value of the threshold of the received signal strength to be read, and the like.

[0129] In the above embodiment, the setting for reading the RF tag 10 by the reader / writer 20 is optimized when the device to be used is already determined, but the device to be used may be optimized in a similar manner. That is, the optimal device (for example, the reader / writer, RF tag, etc. to be used) is estimated using a trained model based on required information.

[0130] [How to apply settings] In the above embodiment, the system construction support device 200 is configured to automatically reflect the estimated settings, but it may be configured to manually reflect the settings. In this case, for example, the estimated results are displayed on the display 105 of the terminal device 100. The user obtains information on the optimal settings from the display on the display 105, and manually inputs the setting values ​​of the corresponding settings to reflect the settings. In this case, it is preferable to display the current setting values ​​and the estimated setting values ​​so that the estimated setting values ​​can be adjusted as target values. In this example, the display 105 is an example of an output device.

[0131] [Modify Settings] After the settings estimated by the system construction support device 200 are reflected, the settings may be further adjusted manually. This allows fine adjustments after a reading test, for example. The adjustments are made, for example, on a setting screen. At this time, it is preferable to display the current settings.

[0132] As an adjustment method after the reading test, questions may be presented to the user, and adjustment items and / or adjustment amounts may be estimated from the answers to the questions and presented to the user. A trained model may be used for the estimation. Questions may be asked in an interactive format, and multiple questions may be asked in a pile to estimate adjustment items and / or adjustment amounts. Also, the estimated results may be automatically reflected in response to instructions from the user.

[0133] In addition, if the estimated settings are modified, the modified setting values ​​and system information may be obtained, and the obtained information may be used to generate or update the trained model.

[0134] [System Configuration] In the above embodiment, various reading-related functions (such as the function of deleting duplicate data and the function of filtering read data) are realized by installing a specific middleware in the computer constituting the terminal device 100, but the functions of the terminal device 100 may also be provided in the reader / writer 20.

[0135] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the terminal device 100 and the system construction support device 200 are configured as separate devices, but the functions of the terminal device 100 and the system construction support device 200 may be realized by a single device.

[0136] [Initial Settings] As described above, the first read test is performed with default settings, except when the user manually adjusts. Alternatively, the first read test may be performed using information on adjusted setting values. For this reason, it is preferable to record information on adjusted setting values ​​in a database so that it can be called up and used as appropriate. The database is held, for example, by the system construction support device 200, and records adjusted setting values ​​in association with system information.

[0137] [others] In the present invention, the hardware structure of a processing unit that executes various processes is various processors as shown below. The various processors include a CPU, which is a general-purpose processor that executes software (programs) and functions as various processing units, a programmable logic device (PLD), such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), whose circuit configuration can be changed after manufacture, and a dedicated electric circuit, such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), which is a processor having a circuit configuration designed specifically for executing specific processes.

[0138] One processing unit may be configured with one of these various processors, or may be configured with two or more processors of the same or different types (for example, multiple FPGAs, or a combination of a CPU and an FPGA). Also, multiple processing units may be configured with one processor. As an example of configuring multiple processing units with one processor, first, as represented by a computer such as a client or server, there is a form in which one processor is configured with a combination of one or more CPUs and software, and this processor functions as multiple processing units. Second, as represented by a system on chip (SoC), there is a form in which a processor is used that realizes the functions of the entire system including multiple processing units with one IC (Integrated Circuit) chip. In this way, the various processing units are configured using one or more of the above various processors as a hardware structure.

[0139] Moreover, the hardware structure of these various processors is, more specifically, an electric circuit that combines circuit elements such as semiconductor elements.

[0140] Furthermore, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0141] 1. RFID system 2. Support system 3. Session 10. RF tag 20...Reader / writer 30... Processing system 100...Terminal device 100A…System information collection section 100B…Basic information input reception section 100C…System information transmission unit 100D…Optimal setting information acquisition section 100E…Settings input reception section 100F…Settings processing section 101…Processor 104…Auxiliary storage device 105…Display 105a…RF tag information input field 105a1…Manufacturer's input field 105a2…Product name (model name) input field 105b…Reader / writer information input field 105b1...Manufacturer's input field 105b2…Product name (model name) input field 105c…Reader / writer usage information input field 105d…Radio output setting information input field 105e…Flag setting information input field 105f...Session setting information input field 105g…Radio wave exposure time setting information input field 105h…Frequency band setting information input field 105i…Input field for setting the threshold of the received signal strength to be read 106…Touch panel 107…GPS receiver 108…Camera section 109…Microphone section 110…Speaker section 111…Communications Department 112...Near field communication department 113…Sensor section 200...System construction support device 200A…System information acquisition section 200B…Estimation part 200C…Optimal setting information transmission unit 201…Processor 202...ROM 203...RAM 204…Auxiliary storage device 205...Input device 206…Display device 207…Communication interface M: Trained model NW…Network S101 to S110, S201 to S203...Process flow for optimizing the radio output setting of the reader / writer using the support system

Claims

1. A support device for supporting the construction of a system for reading RF tags with a reader, comprising: A processor is provided. The processor, Acquire first information including at least information on the RF tag, information on the reader, information on the usage mode of the reader, and information on the strength of a received signal when the RF tag is read by the reader; For a model that outputs second information related to settings for reading the RF tag when the first information is input, the first information is input to obtain the second information; outputting the second information to an output device and / or a setting device that performs settings related to reading of the RF tag; Support equipment.

2. The model is a trained model generated by machine learning using the first information as an explanatory variable and the second information as a target variable. The support device according to claim 1 .

3. The first information further includes information on a target to which the system is applied. The support device according to claim 1 .

4. The information on the target to which the system is applied includes at least information on the target to which the RF tag is affixed and information on the reading format of the RF tag. The support device according to claim 3.

5. The processor, outputting questions regarding a target to which the system is to be applied to the output device; Accepting input of answers to the questions from an input device; Acquire information on the subject to which the system is to be applied based on the input answer.

5. The support device according to claim 3 or 4.

6. The processor, When outputting the second information to the output device, a correction to the second information is received from an input device, and the second information is corrected; outputting the modified second information to the setting device; 5. An assistance device according to claim 1.

7. The processor, outputting questions regarding the reading result to the output device; Accepting input of answers to the questions from an input device; Modifying the second information based on the input answer; outputting the modified second information to the setting device; 5. An assistance device according to claim 1.

8. The first information further includes information about an environment in which the system is used. The support device according to claim 1 .

9. The processor, Acquire an image of an environment in which the system is used; Analyzing the image to obtain information about the environment in which the system is used; 9. The support device according to claim 8.

10. The processor, outputting, to the output device, questions regarding the environment in which the system is used; Accepting input of answers to the questions from an input device; Acquiring information about the environment in which the system is used based on the input answers; 10. An assistance device according to claim 8 or 9.

11. The first information further includes information on a reading result of a specific RF tag.

5. An assistance device according to claim 1.

12. The second information includes at least information on the setting of the radio wave output of the reader.

5. An assistance device according to claim 1.

13. The second information further includes at least one of a flag setting, a session setting, a radio wave irradiation time setting, a frequency band setting, and a threshold setting of a received signal strength to be read.

13. The support device of claim 12.

14. The information on the usage pattern of the reader is acquired by selecting one from among a usage pattern for reading a single RF tag, a usage pattern for reading a plurality of RF tags at once, and a usage pattern for searching for a specific RF tag.

5. An assistance device according to claim 1.

15. A support program for causing a computer to realize a function for supporting the construction of a system for reading RF tags with a reader, A function of acquiring first information including at least information on the RF tag, information on the reader, information on the usage pattern of the reader, and information on the strength of a received signal when the RF tag is read by the reader; A function of inputting the first information and acquiring the second information for a model that outputs second information related to settings for reading the RF tag when the first information is input; a function of outputting the second information to an output device and / or a setting device that performs settings related to reading of the RF tag; A support program that makes this possible on a computer.

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