Information processing device, server, and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing device capable of changing the polling interval to suit the situation.SOLUTION: According to an embodiment, an information processing device includes polling means and setting means. The polling means performs, to a server, normal polling in a normal state in which an event being set in advance has not occurred and event polling when the event being set in advance occurs. The setting means sets polling intervals for each of the normal polling and the event polling.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an information processing device, a server, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Various information processing devices used in the payment processing system for store business activities, such as POS (Point of Sales) devices and their peripheral devices (hereinafter referred to as POS devices), are important devices. Therefore, when grasping the status of POS devices or when a problem occurs, it is necessary to obtain information from the POS devices and take a quick response.

[0003] Currently, in order to achieve this, a device management server is deployed, and the POS device sends status information to the device management server, allowing the operating status to be grasped remotely. From the information sent, the store manager determines the necessary action instructions according to the status (event) that has occurred in the POS device, and sets them in the device management server.

[0004] For security reasons, communication between the device management server and POS devices is one-way from the POS device, so in order for the POS device to receive instructions from the device management server, it must make an inquiry to the device management server (hereafter referred to as polling).

[0005] Here, for example, it is assumed that a problem occurs in a POS device, information about the problem is notified to the device management server, and the store manager sets necessary instructions in the device management server.

[0006] In this case, the current polling mechanism only performs periodic inquiries at a single, predetermined polling interval, so even if an event occurs in the POS device that requires a prompt response, there may be a delay in the POS device receiving instructions from the device management server.

[0007] On the other hand, while shortening the polling interval makes it possible to increase the frequency of inquiries, there is a problem in that many inquiries will be made even during normal, problem-free times, resulting in the occupation of network bandwidth and increased communication costs. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] JP 2022-137917 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] An object of the present invention is to provide an information processing device, a server, and a program that can change a polling interval to one suitable for a situation. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] According to an embodiment, the information processing device has a polling unit and a setting unit. The polling unit executes normal polling of the server during normal times when a preset event does not occur, and event polling when a preset event occurs. The setting unit sets a polling interval for each of the normal polling and the event polling. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a system according to the present embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the main circuit configuration of the device management server in this embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a store system in this embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the main circuit configuration of the POS device according to this embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an event definition table stored in the storage unit of the POS device in this embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a polling setting table stored in the storage unit of the POS device in this embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining the polling interval registration process (setting function) in this embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating the polling interval change process in this embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the polling execution process in this embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a polling interval registration screen in this embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a display example of a pattern area in this embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a server inquiry time record stored in the device management server in this embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining the polling status monitoring process by the device management server in this embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a polling status monitoring screen of the device management server in this embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a polling log information screen in this embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Hereinafter, the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a system according to the present embodiment. The system shown in Fig. 1 shows an example of the configuration for managing various information processing devices used in a store system for settlement operations in store business activities, such as a POS (Point of Sales) device and its peripheral devices (hereinafter, these are also referred to as POS devices), a server, etc.

[0013] In the system shown in FIG. 1, a device management server 10 and a plurality of store systems 30 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other via a network 5 including a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), the Internet, and the like.

[0014] The device management server 10 manages various POS devices used in a store system installed in at least one store. Based on inquiries (polling) from the POS devices, the device management server 10 monitors the operating status of the POS devices and notifies the administrator or the like according to the operating status. When a problem occurs in a POS device, for example, an administrator sets instructions required to deal with the problem and notifies the POS device. When a problem occurs in a POS device, the polling interval is basically shortened to reduce the time required to deal with the problem. When the problem with the POS device is resolved, the device management server 10 has a function of returning the POS device to a normal polling interval, either manually by the store administrator or automatically.

[0015] The store system 30 is configured as, for example, a POS (Point Of Sales) system, and includes various information processing devices (POS devices) installed to sell products in the store. The POS devices include, for example, a store server that manages the devices in the store, a registration machine that registers products to be purchased by customers, an accounting machine that processes the accounting for the products registered in the registration machine, a POS device that executes product registration and accounting, a journal server that records sales of products, etc., an order terminal where customers in a restaurant order products, etc., and other peripheral devices (printer device, storage device, display device, etc.). The information processing device (POS device) may be a device dedicated to the POS system, or may be a general-purpose electronic device such as a personal computer (PC), tablet PC, or smartphone with a POS application program, etc. installed.

[0016] In this embodiment, an example is described in which the device management server 10 manages POS devices installed in each of a plurality of store systems 30 by polling from the POS devices. However, for example, a device management server 10 may be provided in each store system 30, and a POS device may be managed for each store.

[0017] In addition, in this embodiment, the device management server 10 manages POS devices used in the store system 30, but the device management server 10 can also be used for information processing devices used in other systems. In other words, the device management server 10 can be applied to a system other than the store system 30 (POS system) as long as the system allows an information processing device to make an inquiry (polling) to the device management server.

[0018] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a main circuit configuration of the device management server 10 in this embodiment. The device management server 10 includes a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, a communication interface (I / F) 13, a display unit 14, an operation unit 15, and a system transmission path 19.

[0019] The device management server 10 constitutes a computer by connecting the control unit 11, the storage unit 12, and the communication interface 13 via a system transmission path 19. The device management server 10 then connects devices such as a display unit 14 and an operation unit 15 to the computer via the system transmission path 19.

[0020] The control unit 11 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The control unit 11 includes a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and controls each part to realize various functions of the device management server 10 according to an operating system or an application program. The control unit 11 is preferably a multi-core or multi-thread type capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0021] The memory unit 12 corresponds to the main memory and auxiliary memory of the computer. The main memory includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The non-volatile memory area stores an operating system or an application program. The main memory may store data required for the control unit 11 to execute processes for controlling each unit in a non-volatile or volatile memory area. The volatile memory area is used as a work area where data is appropriately rewritten by the control unit 11. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0022] The auxiliary storage section may be, for example, an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable and Programmable ROM), an HDD (Hard disk drive), or an SSD (Solid State Drive). The auxiliary storage section stores data used by the control section 11 when performing various processes, data created by the processes in the control section 11, etc. The auxiliary storage section may also store the above-mentioned application programs.

[0023] The application programs stored in the storage unit 12 include a management program for monitoring the polling status from the POS devices. The management program manages the polling from the POS devices of the store system 30 to realize various functions. For example, it realizes a function for controlling notifications to a manager or the like according to the status of the POS devices based on polling, instructions from the manager or the like, or notifications for operational control of the POS devices (such as changing the polling interval) according to the status of the POS devices.

[0024] The storage unit 12 also stores a server inquiry time record as information collected from the POS devices of the store system 30. The server inquiry time record stores, for example, a POS device number for identifying a POS device and the time (inquiry time) of polling received from the POS device 310 indicated by the POS device number in association with each other.

[0025] The communication interface (I / F) 13 is a device that controls communication with the store system 30 (POS device) via the network 5.

[0026] The display unit 14 is configured, for example, with a liquid crystal display or the like, and displays information according to the processing executed by the control unit 11. The operation unit 15 is configured with a pointing device such as a keyboard and a mouse, and inputs data according to operations by an administrator of the device management server 10, etc. Note that a touch panel that integrates the display unit 14 and the operation unit 15 may be provided.

[0027] 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a store system 30 according to this embodiment. The store system 30 includes a plurality of POS devices 310 and 320, a store server 311, an access point 340, a communication device 360, a network 350, and the like.

[0028] The POS devices 310 are various information processing devices used in systems for settlement operations in store business activities, and are communicatively connected to other devices via a network 350 in, for example, the store system 30. The POS devices 310 include, for example, a registration machine, an accounting machine, a POS device, a journal server, and the like.

[0029] The POS device 320 is any of various information processing devices used in a system for settlement operations in store business activities, and is connected by wireless communication to be able to communicate with other devices through the access point 340 and the network 350 in the store system 30, for example. The POS device 320 is, for example, an electronic device (e.g., a tablet PC) in which a POS application program or the like is installed, or a portable electronic device that can be attached to a cart and can register products to be purchased by customer operations, and even process payments for registered products.

[0030] The store server 311 is a computer that has a product master that stores product data such as the product name and unit price of each product sold in the store, and collects and tallys up sales data of products that have been paid for, and manages the sales, inventory, etc. of the entire store.

[0031] The POS devices 310, 320 and the store server 311 are managed by the device management server 10, and are provided with various polling-related functions. For example, the POS devices 310, 320 and the store server 311 have a detection function using various sensors and internal programs for detecting operation conditions (events), and a polling function for polling the device management server 10 at preset intervals for the conditions (events) detected by the detection function.

[0032] The detection function uses various sensors or internal programs to detect the status of the hardware or software (programs) implemented in the POS devices 310, 320 and the store server 311, and notifies the device management server 10 by polling if the status indicates an event that should be notified.

[0033] Specific conditions (events) that can be detected include, for example, the remaining amount of receipt paper or change, the remaining capacity of a storage device, the state of the power supply, the remaining battery charge, processing delays / stops of various programs, and the occurrence of various errors.

[0034] The state (event) detected by the detection function can be various depending on the configuration of each of the POS devices 310, 320 and the store server 311. In other words, any state (event) necessary for the device management server 10 to manage the POS devices may be detected, and the number and targets of the states (events) detected may differ depending on each of the POS devices 310, 320 and the store server 311.

[0035] The polling function polls the device management server 10 at set intervals. For example, normal polling is performed when a preset situation (event) does not occur in the POS device, event polling is performed when a preset situation (event) occurs in the POS device, and schedule polling according to a preset schedule is performed. The POS devices 310, 320 and the store server 311 have a setting function that can set the polling interval for each of normal polling, event polling, and schedule polling. Event polling and schedule polling are periodic polling that periodically polls at a polling interval set corresponding to each when a preset situation (event) does not occur. The POS devices 310, 320 and the store server 311 can switch the polling interval time by reflecting a polling setting that matches the event that indicates the status of the POS device.

[0036] The access point 340 controls wireless communication with the POS device 320 .

[0037] The communication unit 360 communicates with the device management server 10 through the network 5 .

[0038] 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the main circuit configuration of the POS device 310 in this embodiment. Note that the POS device 320 and the store server 311 basically have the same configuration as the POS device 310, so their explanations will be omitted.

[0039] The POS device 310 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, a communication interface (I / F) 33, a display unit 34, an operation unit 35, a system transmission path 39, and the like.

[0040] The POS device 310 configures a computer by connecting the control unit 31, the storage unit 32, and the communication interface 33 via a system transmission path 39. The POS device 310 connects devices such as a display unit 34 and an operation unit 35 to the computer via the system transmission path 39.

[0041] The control unit 31 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The control unit 31 includes a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and controls each part to realize various functions of the POS device 310 according to an operating system or an application program. The control unit 31 is preferably a multi-core or multi-thread type capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0042] The memory unit 32 corresponds to the main memory and auxiliary memory of the computer. The main memory includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The non-volatile memory area stores an operating system or application programs. The main memory may store data required for the control unit 31 to execute processes for controlling each unit in a non-volatile or volatile memory area. The volatile memory area is used as a work area where data is appropriately rewritten by the control unit 31. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, a ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM.

[0043] The auxiliary storage section may be, for example, an EEPROM, a HDD, or an SSD. The auxiliary storage section stores data used by the control section 31 when performing various processes, data created by the processes in the control section 31, etc. The auxiliary storage section may also store the above-mentioned application programs.

[0044] The application programs stored in the storage unit 32 include a polling control program, an internal program, etc. The polling control program is a program for implementing a polling function that polls at preset intervals. The internal program is a program for detecting the operation status (event) of the POS device by receiving the operation status (event information) of the POS device from various sensors or the like provided in the POS device, or by receiving the status (event information) of the POS device from an external input (for example, a notification from the device management server 10, an operation by the operation unit 35, etc.).

[0045] Furthermore, the storage unit 32 stores various data required to realize the polling function in conjunction with the execution of the polling control program. For example, the storage unit 32 stores an event definition table (see FIG. 5), a polling setting table (see FIG. 6), a polling interval update flag, and the like. The event definition table indicates a situation (event) that is preset in a POS device that is the target of event polling. The polling setting table registers multiple polling setting data (registration information: sometimes referred to as event classification records) to which registration numbers are assigned in order to manage polling intervals. The polling interval update flag is a control flag used for controlling the execution of polling (polling execution processing, described later).

[0046] The communication interface (I / F) 33 is a device that controls communication with the store server 311 of the store system 30, the communication device 360, and the like via the network 350 of the store system 30.

[0047] The display unit 34 is configured with, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays information according to the processing executed by the control unit 31. The operation unit 35 is configured with a keyboard and a pointing device, and inputs data according to operations by an operator (a store clerk, a customer, etc.) of the POS device 310. A touch panel that integrates the display unit 34 and the operation unit 35 may be provided.

[0048] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an event definition table stored in the storage unit 32 of the POS device 310 in this embodiment.

[0049] The event definition table is a table in which data is set that defines the situation (event) in which the POS device 310 polls the device management server 10. In the event definition table, a plurality of event classifications are associated with event definitions that define the polling situation (event) corresponding to the event classification.

[0050] Event classifications include, for example, "DEFAULTPOLLING," "WARNING," and "ERROR." "DEFAULTPOLLING" is a classification that indicates a situation (event) in which the POS device is operating normally. "WARNING" is a classification that indicates a situation (event) that requires attention to the operation of the POS device. "ERROR" is a classification that indicates a situation (event) in which a problem has occurred in the POS device. Note that the event classifications shown in FIG. 5 are just examples, and there may be other classifications that indicate the status of the POS device.

[0051] The event definitions "s_setDefaultPollingInterval" and "s_shiftToNormalMode" are associated with the event classification "DEFAULTPOLLING" shown in Figure 5. The event definition "s_setDefaultPollingInterval" indicates that an instruction to shift to a predetermined basic polling interval has occurred. Similarly, the event definition "s_shiftToNormalMode" indicates that an instruction to shift the POS device to the normal state (normal mode) has occurred.

[0052] The event classification "WARNING" is associated with the event definitions "w_nearEmpty," "w_resourceFULL," and "w_longWait." The event definition "w_nearEmpty" indicates that the remaining battery charge has fallen below a preset reference value. The event definition "w_resourceFULL" indicates that the free space on a storage medium (e.g., a hard disk) has fallen below a preset reference value. The event definition "w_longWait" indicates that the processing time of an application program has become longer (delayed) than a preset reference value.

[0053] The event classification "ERROR" is associated with "e_serviceDown" and "e_powerFail". The event definition "e_serviceDown" indicates that an application program has stopped. The event definition "e_powerFail" indicates that the power supply has been lost.

[0054] The event definitions set in the event definition table can be defined according to the type of POS device and its individual configuration (hardware / software). The event definition table shown in Fig. 5 is an example, and a larger number of event definitions (status (events) of the POS device to be polled) can be defined for each of a plurality of event classifications. Also, it is assumed that various sensors and detection functions using internal programs are implemented to detect the operating status (events) of the POS device defined in the event definition.

[0055] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a polling setting table stored in the storage unit 32 of the POS device 310 in this embodiment.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 6, the polling setting table registers data (registration information) in the fields of “Registration Type,” “Changed Event,” “Polling Interval (seconds),” “Schedule Pattern,” “Schedule,” and “Valid Setting” in association with a registration number (1, 2, 3, ...).

[0057] "Registration type" indicates which polling type the polling setting data (event classification record) registered in the event definition table targets, i.e., normal polling, event polling, or scheduled polling. "default" is set for normal polling, "event" for event polling, and "schedule" for scheduled polling.

[0058] "Changed event" indicates which event classification corresponding to the registration type is targeted by the polling setting data (event classification record) registered in the event definition table. "Changed event" includes, for example, the event classifications "DEFAULTPOLLING", "WARNING", and "ERROR" defined in the event definition table shown in Figure 5, as well as schedules.

[0059] "Polling interval (seconds)" indicates the interval (seconds) at which polling is performed, and the time (seconds) is set for the change event by the polling interval registration process (setting function) described below. If the "change event" is "schedule", polling is performed according to the polling schedule, so the "polling interval (seconds)" is not set (NULL).

[0060] "Schedule pattern" indicates the schedule pattern set by the polling interval registration process (setting function) when the "change event" is "schedule".

[0061] "Schedule" indicates the time at which polling is performed according to a schedule pattern.

[0062] "Valid setting" is a flag that indicates which of normal polling and event polling will be executed next. When the valid setting flag is set to ON (valid) for the execution polling setting data (event classification record) that has been determined to be the target for polling, the valid setting of the execution polling setting data that currently has the valid setting set to ON is set to OFF (invalid).

[0063] Next, a polling-related operation of the POS device 310 in this embodiment will be described. Note that the POS device 320 and the store server 311 perform the same polling-related operation as the POS device 310, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0064] The POS device 310 executes a polling control program by the control unit 31 to realize various processes related to polling shown in the flowcharts of FIGS.

[0065] First, a polling interval registration process (setting function) by the POS device 310 in this embodiment will be described. Fig. 7 is a flowchart for explaining the polling interval registration process (setting function) in this embodiment.

[0066] The POS device 310 in this embodiment performs, for example, normal polling that is performed in normal times when a preset situation (event) does not occur in the POS device, event polling that is performed when a preset situation (event) occurs in the POS device, schedule polling according to a preset schedule, etc. In the polling interval registration process, the administrator can set any polling interval for each of these polling intervals.

[0067] The POS device 310 (control unit 31) starts the polling interval registration process when, for example, an administrator performs a predetermined operation on the operation unit 35 to request registration of a polling interval (Act 10, Yes).

[0068] First, the control unit 31 causes the display unit 34 to display a polling interval registration screen (Act 11). The control unit 31 accepts a setting operation of registration information using the operation unit 35 in a setting area displayed on the polling interval registration screen (Act 12).

[0069] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a polling interval registration screen 50 in this embodiment.

[0070] The polling interval registration screen 50 is provided with a registration number selection area 51, an event polling setting area 52, a schedule polling setting area 53, a set button 54, a delete button 55, and a cancel button 56.

[0071] The registration number selection area 51 is an area for specifying the polling setting data registered in the polling setting table. The event polling setting area 52 is an area for setting the event polling. The schedule polling setting area 53 is an area for setting the schedule polling. The set button 54 is a button for receiving an instruction to reflect (update) the contents set on the polling interval registration screen 50 in the polling setting data. The delete button 55 is a button for receiving an instruction to delete the contents corresponding to the current registration number displayed on the polling interval registration screen 50 from the polling setting data. The cancel button 56 is a button for receiving an instruction to invalidate the current setting contents displayed on the polling interval registration screen 50 and end the process.

[0072] The event polling setting area 52 and the schedule polling setting area 53 are provided with buttons 521 and 531, respectively. The buttons 521 and 531 are radio buttons, and either one can be selected.

[0073] The registration number selection area 51 is provided with a registration number area 511 which displays the selected registration number, a first button 512 which accepts an instruction to increment the registration number displayed in the registration number area 511 by "-1", and a second button 513 which accepts an instruction to increment the registration number displayed in the registration number area 511 by "+1".

[0074] The event polling setting area 52 is provided with a selection button 521 for instructing the setting of event polling, and a setting area 522 for specifying / displaying the setting contents for event polling. The setting area 522 is provided with an event classification setting area 523 and a list button 525 for specifying the event classification to be set, and a polling interval setting area 526 for specifying / displaying the polling interval (seconds) of the changed event displayed in the event classification setting area 523. When the list button 525 is operated, a list of changed events set in the polling setting table is displayed, and by selecting any changed event from the list, the selected changed event can be displayed in the event classification setting area 523. In the polling interval setting area 526, an arbitrary polling interval (seconds) for the event classification displayed in the event classification setting area 523 can be set by inputting a numerical value by operating the operation unit 35.

[0075] The scheduled polling setting area 53 is provided with a selection button 531 for instructing the setting of scheduled polling, and a setting area 532 for specifying / displaying the setting contents for scheduled polling. The setting area 532 is provided with a start time area 532 for specifying / displaying the start time for executing scheduled polling, and a pattern area 534 for specifying / displaying the pattern for executing scheduled polling.

[0076] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a display example of the pattern area 534 in this embodiment.

[0077] The pattern area 534 shown in FIG. 11 includes, for example, a period selection button 535 for selecting one of year, month, week, and day as the period for which the schedule pattern is to be set, and a setting area for setting a pattern for executing polling during the period selected using the period selection button 535.

[0078] 11, "week" has been selected by period selection button 535, so the setting area is provided with interval setting area 536 for setting / inputting the weekly interval for polling in order to set a pattern for performing polling within a week, and day of the week selection area 537 for selecting the day of the week for performing polling. Day of the week selection area 537 is provided with check boxes for selecting any day of the week from Sunday to Saturday.

[0079] 11 shows an example in which "week" is selected by period selection button 535, but if "year," "month," or "day" is selected by period selection button 535, an area for setting a pattern for executing polling according to each period will be displayed. Detailed explanation will be omitted here.

[0080] Furthermore, the pattern area 534 is provided with a start date setting area 538, an end date setting area 539, and a repetition count setting area 540 for specifying / inputting a period for executing polling. Either the end date setting area 539 or the repetition count setting area 540 can be selected using a radio button. By selecting the end date setting area 539, polling can be executed during the period from the start date set in the start date setting area 538 to the end date set in the end date setting area 539. Furthermore, by selecting the repetition count setting area 540, polling can be executed the number of times set in the repetition count setting area 540 from the start date set in the start date setting area 538.

[0081] The pattern setting contents in the pattern area 534 shown in FIG. 11 are just an example, and other setting methods can also be used.

[0082] Based on the registration number displayed in the registration number area 511, the control unit 31 refers to the polling setting table stored in the memory unit 32, and displays the contents of the polling setting data (event classification record) corresponding to the displayed registration number on the polling interval registration screen 50.

[0083] For example, the registration number area 511 displays "1" as the initial state, and displays the registered contents according to the polling setting data set in the polling setting table corresponding to the registration number "1." In the case of the polling setting table shown in Fig. 6, the registration type "default" indicating normal polling and the event classification "DEFAULTPOLLING" are set corresponding to the registration number "1." Therefore, the event classification setting area 523 of the polling interval registration screen 50 displays "DEFAULTPOLLING" as the changed event, and the polling interval setting area 526 displays "600" (seconds).

[0084] By setting the registration number "1" in the registration number area 511, the polling interval for normal polling can be set / changed with the change event "DEFAULTPOLLING" as the setting target.

[0085] In addition, when the registration number displayed in the registration number area 511 is changed (selected) by operating the first button 512 or the second button 513, the control unit 31 changes the display content of the polling interval registration screen 50 to the content of the polling setting data corresponding to the changed registration number, in the same manner as described above.

[0086] In the example shown in Fig. 10, the registration number area 511 is changed to registration number "2". In this case, the registered contents according to the polling setting data set in the polling setting table corresponding to registration number "2" are displayed. In the case of the polling setting table shown in Fig. 10, the registration type "event" and event classification "WARNING" indicating event polling are set corresponding to registration number "2". Therefore, "WARNING" is displayed as the changed event in the event classification setting area 523 of the polling interval registration screen 50, and "10" (seconds) is displayed in the polling interval setting area 526.

[0087] By setting the registration number "2" in the registration number area 511, the polling interval for the event classification "WARNING" of event polling can be set / changed with the changed event "WARNING" as the setting target.

[0088] If no polling setting data (event classification record) has been set for the registration number changed by operating the first button 512 or the second button 513, new polling setting data is set.

[0089] When data (registration information) is input by a setting operation to the setting area displayed on the polling interval registration screen 50 and the Set button 54 is operated (Act 16, Yes), the control unit 31 updates the polling setting table (Act 17). That is, the control unit 31 updates the polling setting data in the polling setting table corresponding to the registration number displayed in the registration number area 511 to the contents set on the polling interval registration screen 50.

[0090] Furthermore, when the delete button 55 is operated (Act 13, Yes), the control unit 31 deletes the polling setting data (registration information) in the polling setting table corresponding to the registration number displayed in the registration number area 511 (Act 14).

[0091] Furthermore, when the cancel button 56 is operated (Act 15, Yes), the control unit 31 invalidates the current setting contents displayed on the polling interval registration screen 50 and ends the polling interval registration process.

[0092] In the above explanation, the event classification defined in the event definition table (FIG. 5) is set as the change event in the event classification setting area 523 of the event polling setting area 52. Therefore, the setting / change corresponding to the event classification selected as the change event is applied to all event definitions (POS device status (events)) corresponding to the event classification set in the event definition table.

[0093] For example, when a polling interval is set for the change event "WARNING," in the event definition table shown in FIG. 5, the polling intervals are set for the event definitions "w_nearEmpty," "w_resourceFULL," and "w_longWait" corresponding to the event classification "WARNING."

[0094] This makes it possible to set / change data for controlling polling intervals collectively for multiple event definitions corresponding to an event classification by setting / changing data for the event classification.

[0095] As described above, it is also possible to select an event definition corresponding to the selected event classification in the event classification setting area 523, rather than simply selecting an event classification. In other words, it is possible to control the polling intervals individually for each event definition.

[0096] For example, the event definition "w_nearEmpty" corresponding to the event classification "WARNING" is selected, and a polling interval different from that of the event definitions "w_resourceFULL" and "w_longWait" is set for the event definition "w_nearEmpty".

[0097] This allows polling to be performed at different polling intervals for each event definition, enabling more detailed management of POS devices by polling.

[0098] In this way, in the polling interval registration process (setting function) of this embodiment, various data (registration information) for controlling the polling executed by the POS device 310 by the operation of an administrator or the like can be set in the polling setting table for each of normal polling, event polling, and schedule polling through the polling interval registration screen 50. Therefore, a polling interval suitable for the status of the POS device can be arbitrarily set, enabling appropriate management by polling of the POS device.

[0099] In the above explanation, the polling interval registration process (setting function) displays the polling interval registration screen 50 on the display unit 34 of the POS device 310, and various polling-related settings are made by operating the operation unit 35. However, it is also possible to enable other devices to set the polling setting table for the POS device 310 in the same manner as described above.

[0100] For example, the polling interval registration process (setting function) for the target POS device is executed in the same manner as described above by another information processing device, such as the device management server 10, the store server 311 in the store system 30, or another POS device 310 in the store system 30. The other information processing device transmits the setting contents (polling setting table) to the target POS device to store it.

[0101] This allows the same settings to be made to multiple POS devices 310 in a batch, thereby reducing the burden of setting operations.

[0102] Also, the POS device to be set may be accessed from another information processing device, and the POS device may execute the polling interval registration process (setting function) similar to that described above under the control of the other information processing device. In this case, the polling interval registration screen 50 may be displayed on the other information processing device, and the setting may be performed by the administrator of the other information processing device.

[0103] This allows the administrator of another information processing device to individually configure the POS device 310, so that the POS device 310 can be configured even if the administrator is unable to do so within the store.

[0104] Next, a polling interval change process by the POS device 310 in this embodiment will be described below. Fig. 8 is a flowchart for explaining the polling interval change process in this embodiment.

[0105] The POS device 310 in this embodiment performs polling according to the settings in the polling setting table set by the polling interval registration process (setting function). The POS device 310 changes the polling interval by validating the polling setting data corresponding to normal polling, event polling, or schedule polling set in the polling setting table according to the status (event) of the POS device.

[0106] The control unit 31 of the POS device 310 receives event information by various sensors for detecting the operating status (event) of the POS device 310 or by a detection function by an internal program (Act 20).

[0107] The control unit 31 checks whether the event indicated by the event information detected by the detection function is an event to be polled, defined in the event definition table. That is, the control unit 31 determines whether the event indicated by the event information corresponds to an event definition set in the event definition table, and checks the corresponding event classification if there is a corresponding event definition. If there is no event classification that corresponds to the event definition (Act 21, no match), the control unit 31 ends the process.

[0108] On the other hand, if there is an event classification that corresponds to the event definition (Act 21, there is a match), the control unit 31 refers to the event definition table to check whether a polling interval is set for the corresponding event classification. If there is no polling interval setting for the event classification (Act 22, there is no match), the control unit 31 ends the process.

[0109] On the other hand, if a polling interval is set for the event classification (Act 22, matched), the control unit 31 changes the valid setting flag in the event definition table for the corresponding event classification to ON (valid) (Act 23). Also, for the event classification whose valid setting flag was ON (valid) up until that point, the control unit 31 changes the flag to OFF (invalid).

[0110] In addition, the control unit 31 changes the "polling interval update flag" to ON (Act 24). That is, this indicates that an event defined in the event definition table has occurred in the POS device 310, and that polling needs to be performed according to the polling interval set for the event that has occurred (changed event).

[0111] For example, if the event that occurred in the POS device 310 is the event definition "w_nearEmpty" in the event definition table shown in Fig. 5, the event classification of the event definition "w_nearEmpty" becomes "WARNING." In the polling setting table shown in Fig. 6, the enable setting flag of the event classification "WARNING" is changed to ON (enabled), and the "polling interval update flag" is changed to ON.

[0112] Next, a polling execution process by the POS device 310 in this embodiment will be described below. Fig. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the polling execution process in this embodiment.

[0113] The control unit 31 refers to the polling setting table and acquires a valid polling interval set in the polling setting table (Act 30). That is, the control unit 31 acquires a polling interval of a change event whose valid setting flag is set to ON (valid).

[0114] The control unit 31 calculates and sets the "next server inquiry time" based on the time indicated by the acquired polling interval. That is, the control unit 31 adds the polling interval acquired from the polling setting table to the current time to set the "next server inquiry time."

[0115] After calculating and setting the "next server inquiry time", if the "polling interval update flag" is ON (Act 32, Yes), the control unit 31 sets the "polling interval update flag" to OFF (Act 33) and sets the inquiry time to a new valid polling time. In other words, if the "polling interval update flag" is ON (Act 32, Yes), it indicates that an event (event classification) defined in the event definition table has occurred in the POS device 310. Therefore, in order to execute polling at a polling interval corresponding to the event (event classification) that has occurred, the control unit 31 acquires a valid polling interval set in the polling setting table again (Act 30).

[0116] On the other hand, after calculating and setting the "next server inquiry time", if the "polling interval update flag" is not ON (Act 32, No), and if the "next server inquiry time" has passed (Act 34, Yes), the control unit 31 makes an inquiry to the device management server 10. That is, the control unit 31 polls the POS device 310 (Act 36).

[0117] If the "next server inquiry time" has not passed (Act 34, No), the control unit 31 determines whether it is the execution time of the schedule indicated by the schedule pattern and schedule set in the polling setting table. If it is the execution time of the schedule (Act 35, Yes), the control unit 31 executes an inquiry (polling) to the device management server 10 (Act 36).

[0118] On the other hand, if it is not the execution time of the schedule, the control unit 31 does not execute polling and continues the loop of Act 32-Act 34-Act 35. During this time, if the "polling interval update flag" is ON in Act 32 (Act 32, Yes), the control unit 31 sets the inquiry time to a new valid polling time and executes the same process as described above.

[0119] In this way, in the polling execution process, the POS device 310 of this embodiment can execute polling according to the polling interval set in the polling setting table. In the polling setting table, a polling interval is set for each change event corresponding to a situation (event) that has occurred in the POS device 310, and is set to be valid when the corresponding situation (event) occurs, so that in the polling execution process, the polling interval can be changed to a polling interval suitable for the situation of the POS device 310 and polling can be executed.

[0120] Next, a process when the problem event is solved in the POS device 310 in this embodiment will be described. In the polling interval change process described above, the polling interval is changed in response to the occurrence of an event (event classification) defined in the event definition table. When the problem event is solved in the POS device 310, an event is generated to return to normal mode, and the default polling interval (normal polling) can be restored by the same process as the polling interval change process (flowchart shown in FIG. 8).

[0121] It is assumed that an event occurring in the POS device 310, for example a problem corresponding to the event classification "WARNING" or "ERROR", is dealt with by a store manager who manages the POS device 310 and the problem is resolved.

[0122] In this case, for example, event information corresponding to the event definition "s_shiftToNormalMode" indicating a shift to the normal state is received by the detection function of various sensors or internal programs for detecting the operating status (event) of the POS device 310 (Act 20). Note that, instead of detecting the shift to the normal state by the detection function of various sensors or internal programs, the shift to the normal state may be detected by, for example, an instruction to enter the normal state by an operation of the operation unit 35 by the store manager.

[0123] In the same manner as described above, the control unit 31 determines the event classification of the event information detected by the detection function based on the event definition table (Act 21, match found), and checks whether a polling interval is set for the event classification by referring to the event definition table (Act 22, match found).

[0124] The control unit 31 changes the valid setting flag of the event definition table for the corresponding event classification to ON (valid) (Act 23). For the event classification whose valid setting flag was ON (valid) until then, the control unit 31 changes the flag to OFF (invalid). In addition, the control unit 31 changes the "polling interval update flag" to ON (Act 24).

[0125] As a result, for example, the enable setting flag of the event classification "DEFAULTPOLLING" of the event definition "s_shiftToNormalMode" in the event definition table shown in Figure 5 is changed to ON (enabled), and the "polling interval update flag" is changed to ON. This makes it possible to return the polling interval to the default interval time by performing polling execution processing.

[0126] Next, the polling-related operation of the device management server 10 in this embodiment will be described.

[0127] The device management server 10 receives a polling signal transmitted by the POS device 310 in response to the polling execution process, and records a server inquiry time record for the polling signal.

[0128] 12 is a diagram showing an example of a server inquiry time record stored in the device management server 10 in this embodiment. The server inquiry time record stores, for each polling from the POS device 310, a POS device number that identifies the POS device and the time (inquiry time) of the polling received from the POS device 310 indicated by the POS device number in association with each other.

[0129] The device management server 10 can monitor the polling status from the POS device based on the server inquiry time record.

[0130] FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining the polling status monitoring process by the device management server 10 in this embodiment.

[0131] The control unit 11 of the device management server 10 realizes a polling status monitoring process by a management program. In the polling status monitoring process, specific conditions for polling are set to identify POS devices 310 that require action in response to an event that has occurred, and the POS devices are identified according to the specific conditions. As a specific condition, for example, POS devices whose polling interval is equal to or greater than a threshold are extracted, thereby identifying POS devices that require action according to the situation (event). In addition, after a POS device that requires action is identified by monitoring the polling interval, the polling interval time of the corresponding POS device is changed (for example, to the default state).

[0132] First, the control unit 11 of the device management server 10 sets a polling interval threshold in response to, for example, an operation on the operation unit 15 by an administrator or the like (Act 40). One or more polling interval thresholds can be set.

[0133] For example, the polling interval threshold may be (1) the number of polling executions per certain period of time being equal to or greater than a specified value, or (2) the number of consecutive pollings with polling intervals shorter than a specified time being equal to or less than a specified value.

[0134] Here, it is assumed that (1) polling is performed 5 times or more per minute, and (2) polling with a polling interval of 3 seconds or less occurs 3 times or more in succession. Note that the polling interval threshold is not limited to (1) and (2) and can be set arbitrarily.

[0135] The control unit 11 identifies the relevant POS device 310 from the server inquiry time record based on the set polling interval threshold.

[0136] If the control unit 11 does not identify a POS device 310 with a polling interval equal to or greater than the threshold (Act 41, none), the control unit 11 continues to check for a POS device 310 with a polling interval equal to or greater than the threshold.

[0137] 12, the POS device 310 with the POS device number "POS_1000" is identified as a POS device 310 that corresponds to (1) polling five times or more per minute, and the POS device 310 with the POS device number "POS_2000" is identified as a POS device 310 that corresponds to (2) polling with a polling interval of three seconds or less occurring three or more times in succession.

[0138] When the control unit 11 identifies a POS device 310 with a polling interval equal to or greater than the polling interval threshold (Act 41, hit), it outputs information to notify the administrator or the like of the POS device 310 (Act 42). The output may be, for example, a display on the polling status monitoring screen displayed on the display unit 34, or a notification to the administrator via the network.

[0139] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a polling status monitoring screen of the device management server 10 in this embodiment.

[0140] The polling status monitoring screen 60 shown in Figure 14 includes a list of POS devices (POS device list 62) corresponding to the POS device numbers stored in the server query time record, a high frequency polling notification area 61 corresponding to each POS device displayed in the POS device list 62, and a details button 63.

[0141] The high frequency polling notification area 61 is displayed in a different display form from the normal one according to the POS device that is confirmed to be above the polling interval threshold. For example, the different display form from the normal one may be a specific display color, a blinking display, or another form that can be easily identified by the administrator.

[0142] The polling status monitoring screen 60 shown in FIG. 14 shows an example in which the display format of the high-frequency polling notification area 61 for the POS device numbers “POS_1000” and “POS_2000” that correspond to the polling interval thresholds (1) and (2) described above has been changed.

[0143] This allows the administrator to easily check which POS devices 310 have exceeded the polling interval threshold.

[0144] In addition, notifications to the administrator via the network may be sent, for example, via email, various SNS (Social Networking Services), telephone, etc. Data indicating the destination of each notification to the administrator is registered in advance in the device management server 10 according to the form of notification to the administrator.

[0145] As a result, even if the administrator is in a place where he / she cannot check the display unit 14 (polling status monitoring screen 60), he / she can recognize that the POS device 310 has exceeded the polling interval threshold by the notification through the network. Therefore, the administrator can quickly respond to the POS device 310 that has exceeded the polling interval threshold.

[0146] The administrator checks the POS devices 310 that are exceeding the polling interval threshold in response to the display on the polling status monitoring screen 60 or notification via the network, and determines whether to instruct a change in the polling interval.

[0147] On the polling status monitoring screen 60 shown in FIG. 14, when an operation to select a details button 63 is performed, detailed polling information for the POS device 310 corresponding to the operated details button 63 can be displayed.

[0148] When the administrator operates the operation unit 15 to select the details button 63 on the polling status monitoring screen 60, the control unit 11 acquires the polling information received from the POS device 310 corresponding to the details button 63 from the server inquiry time record. The control unit 11 causes the display unit 34 to display a polling log information screen based on the polling information acquired from the server inquiry time record.

[0149] Fig. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a polling log information screen 70 in this embodiment. The polling log information screen 70 shown in Fig. 15 includes, for example, a POS device number display area 71, a polling log area 72, a polling interval setting button 73, and a back button 74.

[0150] The POS device number display area 71 displays the POS device number indicating the POS device 310 selected by the details button 63 on the polling status monitoring screen 60. The polling log area 72 displays a list of polling received from the POS device 310 indicated by the POS device number displayed in the POS device number display area 71. The polling interval setting button 73 is a button for receiving an instruction to send an instruction to change the polling interval to the POS device 310 indicated by the POS device number displayed in the POS device number display area 71. Here, for example, the instruction to change the polling interval is to change it to the default polling interval (normal polling). The back button 74 is a button for instructing to end the display of the polling log information screen 70 and return to the display of the polling status monitoring screen 60.

[0151] The administrator can check the status (event) that occurred in the POS device 310 by referring to the polling log received from the POS device 310 to be checked, which is displayed on the polling log information screen 70, in the polling log area 72.

[0152] The administrator can refer to the polling log to check the situation (event) that occurred in the POS device 310 and determine the necessary measures according to the situation (event) that occurred in the POS device. In this case, since there is no need to subsequently have the POS device 310 send polling that is equal to or greater than the polling interval threshold to notify the situation (event), the administrator can instruct the POS device 310 to change the polling interval.

[0153] When the control unit 11 receives an instruction to change the polling interval by operating the polling interval setting button 73 on the polling log information screen 70 (Act 43, instruction given), it notifies the corresponding POS device 310 of the change in the polling interval (Act 44). For example, the control unit 11 notifies the POS device 310 of event information of the event definition "s_setDefaultPollingInterval" to set the polling interval to the default value.

[0154] The control unit 31 of the POS device 310 receives event information of the event definition “s_setDefaultPollingInterval” from the device management server 10 using a detection function based on an internal program, and executes the polling interval change process described above in response to receiving this event information (FIG. 8).

[0155] This allows the POS device 310 to change the polling interval to the default value by executing the polling interval change process.

[0156] In the above explanation, the polling interval change instruction sets the polling interval to the default value, but it does not necessarily have to be the default value. For example, if polling is being sent due to the occurrence of a changed event "ERROR" (the polling interval is short), it is also possible to set the polling interval to that for the occurrence of a changed event "WARNING" (the polling interval is longer than that for the changed event "ERROR").

[0157] In the above explanation, the polling interval change for the POS device 310 from the device management server 10 is instructed by the administrator to check the corresponding POS device 310 and issue an instruction, but other methods may also be used.

[0158] For example, when it is confirmed that there is a POS device 310 that is equal to or greater than the polling interval threshold (Act 41, there is a match), the control unit 31 can automatically send (automatically notify) the corresponding POS device 310 a notification to reset the polling interval to the default without receiving an instruction from the administrator. In other words, the control unit 31 can send (automatically notify) the corresponding POS device 310 a notification to reset the polling interval to the default even if the administrator does not operate the polling interval setting button 73. In this case, as described above, the administrator may be notified (by displaying the polling status monitoring screen 60, or by notifying the administrator via the network), or the advance notification may be omitted.

[0159] In addition, the POS devices that are the targets of the automatic notification may be limited. For example, the automatic notification may be sent only to the POS devices 310 installed in a preset store system 30 (store).

[0160] Furthermore, the polling log information screen 70 displays all the polling logs received from the POS device 310 selected on the polling status monitoring screen 60, but it may also be possible to select an event classification or event definition and display the polling logs corresponding to each. In this case, the server inquiry time record is added with event information indicating which event classification or event definition caused the polling to be sent in the POS device 310. The polling log information screen 70 is provided with selection buttons for selecting the event classification or event definition. The control unit 11 obtains the polling corresponding to the instruction on the selection button on the polling log information screen 70 from the server inquiry time record based on the event information, and displays it in the polling log area 72.

[0161] This allows the administrator to check the situation (event) that occurred in the POS device 310 in more detail on the polling log information screen 70. Therefore, it is possible to determine appropriate instructions for measures according to the situation (event) that occurred in the POS device 310.

[0162] In this way, in the system of this embodiment, it is possible for the POS device 310 to poll the device management server 10 at intervals appropriate to the situation, enabling quick response when a problem occurs or when a plan is being executed while preventing unnecessary occupation of network bandwidth and communication costs.

[0163] In this embodiment, one device management server 10 is configured to manage POS devices installed in multiple store systems 30 connected via the network 5, but other configurations are also possible. For example, a device management server 10 may be provided in each store, and the POS devices in the store system 30 may be managed for each store.

[0164] Furthermore, the above-mentioned client server system shows an example of a configuration for managing a store system, but it is also possible to target other systems including multiple servers other than store systems.

[0165] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, and are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims.

[0166] Furthermore, the processes described in the above-mentioned embodiments can be written as a program that can be executed by a computer onto a recording medium such as a magnetic disk (flexible disk, hard disk, etc.), an optical disk (CD-ROM, DVD, etc.), or a semiconductor memory, and provided to various devices. Also, it is possible to transmit the programs via a communication medium and provide them to various devices. The computer reads the program recorded on the recording medium, or receives the program via the communication medium, and executes the above-mentioned processes by having its operation controlled by the program. [Explanation of symbols]

[0167] 5...network, 10...device management server, 30...store system, 11,31...control unit, 12,32...memory unit, 13,33...communication interface (I / F), 14,34...display unit, 15,35...operation unit, 310,320...POS device, 311...store server, 340...access point, 360...communication device.

Claims

1. a polling means for executing normal polling for the server when a preset event does not occur and an event polling for the server when a preset event occurs; a setting means for setting a polling interval for each of the normal polling and the event polling; An information processing device having the above configuration.

2. the setting means sets polling intervals for a plurality of different event classifications corresponding to events that are targets of the event polling; 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said polling means executes said event polling in accordance with a polling interval set for an event classification corresponding to the generated event.

3. 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said polling means, when performing polling at a polling interval set for said event polling, returns to said normal polling in response to the occurrence of an event indicating a transition to a normal state.

4. 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said polling means executes schedule polling according to a preset schedule, separately from said normal polling and said event polling.

5. a receiving means for receiving polling from a plurality of information processing devices, the receiving means receiving normal polling when a preset event does not occur and an event polling when a preset event occurs; a storage means for storing data in response to polling from the plurality of information processing devices, in which the data processing device that transmitted the polling corresponds to the time of reception; A setting means for setting specific conditions for the polling; a specifying means for specifying the information processing device that meets the specific condition based on the data; an output unit that outputs information to notify the specified information processing device; a notification means for notifying the specified information processing device of a change in a polling interval; A server having:

6. Computer, a polling means for executing normal polling for the server when a preset event does not occur and an event polling for the server when a preset event occurs; a program for causing the program to function as a setting unit for setting a polling interval for each of the normal polling and the event polling;

Images