Shopping support system and program

Abstract

To provide a shopping support system and a program capable of causing a store clerk who can quickly respond to a support request from a customer to support the customer.SOLUTION: A shopping support system includes a cart terminal (first terminal device) to be carried by a customer in a store, a store clerk terminal (second terminal device) to be carried by a store clerk, and a server device configured to be communicably connected to the cart terminal and the store clerk terminal. The server device calculates a length of a path along a passage in the store between the cart terminal and the store clerk terminal based on a position of the cart terminal that issues a support request, a position of the store clerk terminal, and store map data storing a structure of the passage and information about a length of the passage (map information), and selects a store clerk who can support the customer using the cart terminal that issues the support request. The server device instructs the selected store clerk terminal to support the cart terminal.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a shopping support system and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a shopping support system has been proposed that directs a store clerk to assist a customer in response to a call from the customer during shopping (for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] In such a shopping support system, regardless of the current situation of each store clerk, the store clerk to be directed to assist is selected based on the distance from the customer. Therefore, there has been a problem that even a store clerk taking a break in the backyard has to be directed to assist if the distance from the customer is short.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a shopping support system and a program capable of directing a store clerk who can respond to a support request from a customer as quickly as possible to assist the customer.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The shopping support system according to the embodiment includes a first terminal device that a customer walks around the store with during shopping, a second terminal device that a store clerk carries, and a server device communicably connected to the first terminal device and the second terminal device. The first terminal device includes a first position specifying unit, a support request unit, and a self-position transmitting unit. The first position specifying unit specifies its own position in the store and outputs the specified position to the server device. The support request unit receives an instruction from the customer and requests support from the store clerk. The self-position transmitting unit transmits its own presence to the surroundings when the support request unit requests support. The server device includes a location information acquisition unit, a support request acquisition unit, a route calculation unit, a selection unit, and a support instruction unit. The location information acquisition unit acquires the current locations of the first terminal device and the second terminal device. The support request acquisition unit acquires a support request from the first terminal device. The route calculation unit calculates the length of the route along the passage between the first terminal device and the second terminal device based on the location of the first terminal device, the location of the second terminal device, and the map information storing information related to the structure of the passage in the store and the length of the passage. The selection unit selects a store clerk carrying the second terminal device who can respond to the support request from the first terminal device based on the length of the route calculated by the route calculation unit. The support instruction unit instructs the second terminal device carried by the store clerk selected by the selection unit to provide support to the customer using the first terminal device. The second terminal device includes a second location identification unit and a support instruction acquisition unit. The second location identification unit identifies its own location in the store and outputs the identified location to the server device. The support instruction acquisition unit acquires a support instruction for the customer using the first terminal device that requested support from the server device.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0006]

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] (Schematic Configuration of Shopping Support System) The schematic configuration of the shopping support system 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of the shopping support system according to the embodiment.

[0008] The shopping support system 1 includes a cart terminal 10 provided in a shopping cart 4, a store clerk terminal 30, a server device 50, a settlement device 80, and an access point 3.

[0009] The server device 50 and the settlement device 80 are communicably connected via the in-store network 2. The cart terminal 10, the server device 50, and the settlement device 80 are communicably connected via access points 3 installed in multiple locations within the store. Also, the store clerk terminal 30 and the server device 50 are communicably connected via the access point 3.

[0010] When a customer C in the middle of shopping calls a store clerk when in trouble, the shopping support system 1 guides an available store clerk S to the location of the customer C. After the store clerk S rushes to the location of the customer C, the store clerk S provides support to solve the problem.

[0011] The cart terminal 10 is equipped with a product registration function for registering the products purchased by the customer C. Also, the cart terminal 10 is equipped with a store clerk calling function for calling a store clerk S when the customer C in the middle of shopping needs the support of the store clerk S. The cart terminal 10 is an example of the first terminal device in the present disclosure.

[0012] The store clerk terminal 30 is a terminal device such as a tablet terminal or a smartphone that the store clerk S carries around. When a call from the customer C to the store clerk S is issued, the store clerk terminal 30 notifies that a support request has been issued. Note that the shopping support system 1 does not notify all the store clerk terminals 30, but notifies only the store clerk terminal 30 carried by the store clerk S in the vicinity of the customer C who issued the support request. Also, the shopping support system 1 may notify only the store clerk terminal 30 of the store clerk S who is capable of supporting the customer C among the store clerks S in the vicinity of the customer C who issued the support request.

[0013] Also, the store clerk terminal 30 receives information related to the business by performing wireless communication with the server device 50. Also, the store clerk terminal 30 receives information related to the business by performing wireless communication with other store clerk terminals 30. The store clerk terminal 30 is an example of the second terminal device in the present disclosure.

[0014] The server device 50 monitors the current location of the cart terminal 10 and the current location of the store clerk terminal 30.

[0015] The settlement device 80 performs settlement (which may also be called accounting or payment) related to the product registration information registered by customer C using the cart terminal 10. The settlement device 80 performs cash settlement or cashless settlement using the settlement method selected by customer C. Cash settlement is a settlement method performed using banknotes and coins. Cashless settlement is to pay the price related to the product registration information registered by the cart terminal 10 without using cash. Cashless settlement includes credit settlement, code settlement, electronic money settlement, etc.

[0016] (Configuration of Shopping Cart) Using FIG. 2, the configuration of the shopping cart 4 will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the shopping cart.

[0017] The shopping cart 4 includes a cage-shaped storage part 102 with an open upper surface, a caster part 103 for movement arranged below the storage part 102, a handle part 104 that is connected to the storage part 102 and is grasped by customer C when moving the shopping cart 4, etc. Further, the overall framework of the shopping cart 4 is constituted by a frame 105. Customer C takes the products to be purchased from the shelves and stores them in the storage part 102. Note that the shopping cart 4 does not necessarily have the form of having its own storage part 102. For example, it may have a basket receiving part for placing a shopping basket for storing products, and the shopping basket placed on the basket receiving part may be used as the storage part 102.

[0018] Also, on the side of the handle part 104 of the shopping cart 4, the cart terminal 10 is attached via a holding part (not shown). The cart terminal 10 includes a monitor 141, a touch panel 142, a scanner 143, and a positioning sensor 144.

[0019] The monitor 141 is composed of a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel, and displays to customer C the operation method of the cart terminal 10, product information of the products to be purchased, etc.

[0020] The touch panel 142 is installed in a stacked state on the monitor 141, and acquires the operation instructions of customer C for the cart terminal 10.

[0021] Scanner 143 is installed near monitor 141 to read the product code registered in the code symbol such as the barcode attached to the product. Note that, in addition to scanner 143, cart terminal 10 may be provided with a hand-held scanner (not shown) that customer C holds in their hand to scan the product. When the product is a heavy item, customer C causes the code symbol of the product to be read using the hand-held scanner.

[0022] When customer C puts the product into shopping cart 4, they hold the code symbol attached to the product in front of scanner 143. Scanner 143 reads the code symbol held in front of itself. Further, scanner 143 decodes the read code symbol. Cart terminal 10 analyzes the decoded digital signal to obtain the product code that identifies the product. Cart terminal 10 registers the product purchased by the customer by storing the obtained product code.

[0023] Positioning sensor 144 measures the position of cart terminal 10 in the store. Positioning sensor 144 is, for example, a known GPS (Global Positioning System) sensor. Note that positioning sensor 144 may perform Wi-Fi (registered trademark) positioning to estimate its own position based on the signal strength with a plurality of access points 3 installed in the store.

[0024] Further, shopping cart 4 is provided with warning light 145 at the tip of the erected pole 106. Warning light 115 lights up or blinks in a predetermined emission color and a predetermined emission pattern when customer C performs an operation to call a store clerk with cart terminal 10, thereby notifying its surrounding area of its position. Since warning light 145 is installed at the tip of pole 106, that is, at a high position, the store clerk responding to the call can easily discover customer C.

[0025] (Hardware Configuration of Cart Terminal) Using FIG. 3, the hardware configuration of the cart terminal 10 will be described. FIG. 3 is a hardware block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the cart terminal provided in the shopping cart.

[0026] The cart terminal 10 has a configuration in which a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, a peripheral device controller 14, and a wireless communication interface 15 are connected to each other by an internal bus 13.

[0027] The control unit 11 controls the overall operation of the cart terminal 10. The control unit 11 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 111, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 112, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 113. The CPU 111 is connected to the ROM 112 and the RAM 113 via an internal bus such as an address bus and a data bus. The CPU 111 expands various programs stored in the ROM 112 and the storage unit 12 into the RAM 113. The CPU 111 controls the operation of the cart terminal 10 by operating according to various programs expanded in the RAM 113. That is, the control unit 11 has the configuration of a general computer.

[0028] The storage unit 12 is a storage device such as an HDD or an SSD. Further, the storage unit 12 may be a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory in which stored information is retained even when the power is turned off. The storage unit 12 stores a control program 121, a product master 122, and a product registration file 123.

[0029] The control program 121 is a program that controls the overall operation of the cart terminal 10. The control program 121 may be provided in a state stored in the storage unit 12, or may be recorded and provided on a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, a DVD, etc. in an installable format or an executable format file. Further, the control program 121 may be stored on a computer connected to a network and provided by downloading it via the network. Furthermore, the control program 121 may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0030] The product master 122 is a master file that stores code information such as a JAN code uniquely assigned to each product in association with product information regarding the product, such as the name, price, and product classification of the product.

[0031] The product registration file 123 is a file that stores product information (product name, unit price, quantity, etc.) corresponding to the product code of the product registered in the cart terminal 10.

[0032] The control unit 11 is connected to a monitor 141, a touch panel 142, a scanner 143, a positioning sensor 144, and a warning lamp 145 that perform input and output of various information via the peripheral device controller 14. The outline of each input / output device is as described above. The peripheral device controller 14 controls the operation of these peripheral devices according to instructions from the control unit 11.

[0033] In addition, the control unit 11 performs wireless communication with the server device 50 via the wireless communication interface 15.

[0034] The cart terminal 10 outputs its own position corresponding to the output of the positioning sensor 144 to the server device 50 at any time. Further, when the customer C performs an operation to call a store clerk, the cart terminal 10 requests the server device 50 to provide assistance from the store clerk. Further, the cart terminal 10 acquires information indicating that the store clerk S has accepted the assistance from the server device 50 on the condition that it is determined that the store clerk S has responded to the assistance request.

[0035] In addition, when all the product registrations are completed, the cart terminal 10 outputs the product registration file 123 to the server device 50. Further, after the cart terminal 10 outputs the product registration file 123 to the server device 50, the cart terminal 10 acquires a transaction code that uniquely identifies the registration content of the product registration file 123 from the server device 50.

[0036] (Hardware Configuration of Store Clerk Terminal) Using FIG. 4, the hardware configuration of the store clerk terminal 30 will be described. FIG. 4 is a hardware block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the store clerk terminal.

[0037] The store clerk terminal 30 has a configuration in which a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, a peripheral device controller 34, and a wireless communication interface 35 are connected to each other by an internal bus 33.

[0038] The control unit 31 controls the overall operation of the store clerk terminal 30. The control unit 31 includes a CPU 311, a ROM 312, and a RAM 313. The CPU 311 is connected to the ROM 312 and the RAM 313 via an internal bus such as an address bus and a data bus. The CPU 311 expands various programs stored in the ROM 312 and the storage unit 32 into the RAM 313. The CPU 311 controls the operation of the store clerk terminal 30 by operating according to the various programs expanded in the RAM 313. That is, the control unit 31 has a configuration of a general computer.

[0039] The storage unit 32 is a storage device such as an HDD or an SSD. Further, the storage unit 32 may be a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off. The storage unit 32 stores a control program 321 and store map data 322.

[0040] The control program 321 is a program that controls the overall operation of the store employee terminal 30. The control program 321 may be provided in a state stored in the storage unit 32, or may be provided by being recorded on a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, or a DVD in an installable format or an executable format file. Further, the control program 321 may be stored on a computer connected to a network and provided by being downloaded via the network. Furthermore, the control program 321 may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0041] The store map data 322 is map data that stores information related to the structure of aisles in the store and the lengths of the aisles. Also, the store map data 322 stores the current position of the cart terminal 10 and the current position of the store employee terminal 30 in association with the store map data 322. Note that the store map data 322 is an example of the map information in the present disclosure.

[0042] The control unit 31 is connected to a monitor 341, a touch panel 342, and a positioning sensor 343 that perform input / output of various types of information via a peripheral device controller 34. The peripheral device controller 34 controls the operations of these peripheral devices according to instructions from the control unit 31.

[0043] The monitor 341 is composed of a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel and displays various types of information related to in-store management to the store employee S.

[0044] The touch panel 342 is installed in a state laminated on the monitor 341 and acquires operation instructions from the store employee S for the store employee terminal 30.

[0045] The positioning sensor 343 measures the position of the store clerk terminal 30 in the store. The positioning sensor 343 is the same as the positioning sensor 144 provided in the cart terminal 10.

[0046] Also, the control unit 31 performs wireless communication with the server device 50 via the wireless communication interface 35.

[0047] The store clerk terminal 30 outputs to the server device 50 its own position measured by the positioning sensor 343 at any time. Also, the store clerk terminal 30 outputs to the server device 50 information indicating whether it can respond to a support request from the customer C. Further, the store clerk terminal 30 outputs to the server device 50 information indicating that it accepts a support request from the customer C.

[0048] Also, the store clerk terminal 30 acquires from the server device 50 an instruction to respond to a support request from the customer C. Also, the store clerk terminal 30 acquires from the server device 50 information indicating that a support request from the customer C has been canceled.

[0049] (Hardware Configuration of Server Device) The hardware configuration of the server device 50 will be described with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a hardware block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the server device.

[0050] The server device 50 has a configuration in which a control unit 51, a storage unit 52, a peripheral device controller 54, and a communication interface 55 are connected to each other via an internal bus 53.

[0051] The control unit 51 controls the overall operation of the store clerk terminal 30. The control unit 51 includes a CPU 511, a ROM 512, and a RAM 513. The CPU 511 is connected to the ROM 512 and the RAM 513 via internal buses such as an address bus and a data bus. The CPU 511 expands various programs stored in the ROM 512 and the storage unit 52 into the RAM 513. The CPU 511 controls the operation of the server device 50 by operating according to the various programs expanded in the RAM 513. That is, the control unit 51 has the configuration of a general computer.

[0052] The storage unit 52 is a storage device such as an HDD or an SSD. Further, the storage unit 52 may be a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off. The storage unit 52 stores a control program 521, store map data 522, and a product registration file 523.

[0053] The control program 521 is a program that controls the overall operation of the store clerk terminal 30. The control program 521 may be provided in a state stored in the storage unit 52, or may be recorded on a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, or a DVD in an installable or executable file format and provided. Further, the control program 521 may be stored on a computer connected to a network and provided by downloading it via the network. Furthermore, the control program 521 may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0054] The store map data 522 is map data that stores information related to the structure of aisles in the store and the lengths of the aisles. Also, the store map data 522 stores the current position of the cart terminal 10 and the current position of the store clerk terminal 30 in association with the store map data 522. Note that the store map data 522 is the same as the store map data 322 stored in the store clerk terminal 30. The store map data 522 is an example of the map information in the present disclosure.

[0055] The merchandise registration file 523 is a file that stores the merchandise registration file 123 obtained from the cart terminal 10, associating it with a transaction code that uniquely identifies a transaction. Note that the server device 50 stores the merchandise registration files 123 obtained from a plurality of cart terminals 10 in the store.

[0056] The control unit 51 is connected to a display device 541 and an operation device 542 that input and output various types of information via a peripheral device controller 54. The display device 541 is composed of a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel, and displays various screen information and various text information to the operator of the server device 50. The operation device 542 is, for example, a touch panel laminated on the display device 541, and acquires operation instructions from the operator for the server device 50. The peripheral device controller 54 controls the operations of these peripheral devices according to instructions from the control unit 51.

[0057] In addition, the control unit 51 performs wireless communication with the cart terminal 10 and the store clerk terminal 30 via a communication interface 55. Also, the control unit 51 communicates with the settlement device 80 via the communication interface 55 and the in-store network 2.

[0058] The server device 50 acquires, at any time, its own position corresponding to the output of the positioning sensor 144 from the cart terminal 10. Also, the server device 50 acquires a support request from customer C from the cart terminal 10. Further, the server device 50 acquires the merchandise registration file 123 from the cart terminal 10.

[0059] The server device 50 outputs information indicating that the store clerk S has accepted the support to the cart terminal 10. Also, the server device 50 outputs a transaction code that uniquely identifies the registration content of the merchandise registration file 123 to the cart terminal 10.

[0060] In addition, the server device 50 acquires, at any time, the self-position corresponding to the output of the positioning sensor 343 from the store clerk terminal 30. Further, the server device 50 acquires, from the store clerk terminal 30, information indicating whether it can respond to a support request from the customer C. Further, the server device 50 acquires, from the store clerk terminal 30, information indicating that it accepts a support request from the customer C.

[0061] The server device 50 outputs an instruction to the effect of responding to a support request from the customer C to the store clerk terminal 30. Further, the server device 50 outputs information indicating that the support request from the customer C has been canceled to the store clerk terminal 30.

[0062] In addition, the server device 50 acquires the transaction code that the customer C had the settlement device 80 read from the settlement device 80.

[0063] The server device 50 outputs the product registration file 523 corresponding to the transaction code to the settlement device 80.

[0064] (Structure of store map data) Using FIGS. 6 to 8, the structure of the store map data 322, 522 will be described. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the store map data provided in the shopping support system. FIG. 7 is a first diagram showing the structure of the store map data. FIG. 8 is a second diagram showing the structure of the store map data.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 6, the store map M is composed of links that constitute passages formed between the display shelves 6 where the customer C and the store clerk S can move, and nodes that are connection points between the connecting links. Map data in such a form is the same as the structure of road map data provided in, for example, a car navigation system.

[0066] When the store floor spans multiple floors, the store map M is prepared for each floor.

[0067] Node N ij(i = a, b, c, …, j = a, b, c, …) are formed at the intersections of the aisles in the store and at predetermined distances along the aisles. The subscript i indicates the X-direction position of the node, and the subscript j indicates the Y-direction position of the node. Node N ij is stored in association with the X-direction position and the Y-direction position in the store. Details will be described later (see Fig. 7). In the following description, when referring to nodes in general, they will simply be called Node N.

[0068] Link L ij-pq (i = a, b, c, …, j = a, b, c, …, p = a, b, c, …, q = a, b, c, …) represents a link connecting Node N ij and Node N pq . Link L ij-pq is a link starting from Node N ij and ending at Node N pq . Link L ij-pq is stored in association with information uniquely identifying the Node N indicating the start point, information uniquely identifying the Node N indicating the end point, the link length P, and the weight w of the link. Details will be described later (see Fig. 8). In the following description, when referring to links in general, they will simply be called Link L.

[0069] The link length P represents the actual length of Link L.

[0070] The weight w of the link is a weight coefficient assigned to the link length P of the corresponding Link L when calculating the length of the path between two Node Ns in the store. For example, since the store clerk S taking a break in the backyard does not want to respond to the call request from the customer C if possible, a weight w greater than 1.0 is assigned to the Link L aa-ba connecting the sales floor and the backyard. Then, the server device 50 calculates the integrated value of the link length P and the weight w for Link L aa-bais regarded as the apparent link length. The apparent link length P is an example of information related to the length of a passage in the present disclosure. Accordingly, since the link L from the sales floor to the backyard is regarded as longer than the actual distance, the distance between the salesperson S in the backyard and the customer C is estimated to be longer than in reality. This makes it difficult for the salesperson S in the backyard to respond to a support request from the customer C.

[0071] Similarly, it is desirable to make it difficult for a salesperson S on different floors to respond to a call request from the customer C because it is difficult for the salesperson S on different floors to cross floors via escalators, elevators, or stairs to respond to the call request from the customer C. Therefore, a weight w greater than 1.0 is also assigned to the link L leading to different floors. ga-ha

[0072] On the other hand, for example, for a salesperson S whose main duty is to handle the customer C, the fact is registered in the server device 50, and the server device 50 may assign a weight w less than 1.0 to the link L connecting to the node N closest to the current position of the salesperson S. This makes it possible to make it easier for the salesperson S whose main duty is to handle the customer C to respond to a support request from the customer C. In this way, the server device 50 may variably set the weight w of the link L according to the salesperson S.

[0073] When the server device 50 acquires a call request from the customer C, the server device 50 identifies the node N closest to the customer C by comparing the position information of the customer C acquired from the cart terminal 10 with the store map M. Further, when the server device 50 acquires a call request from the customer C, the server device 50 identifies the node N closest to the salesperson S by comparing the position information of the salesperson S acquired from the salesperson terminal 30 with the store map M. Then, the server device 50 calculates the shortest path from the salesperson S to the customer C and the length of the route of the shortest path with reference to the store map M. The shortest path calculated in this way is output to the salesperson terminal 30, and the salesperson S heads for the support of the customer C along the presented route.

[0074] FIG. 7 shows an example of the node data 3221 included in the store map data 322. The node data 3221 is the node N​ij In association therewith, for the node N ij information for uniquely identifying it, such as the node number or position coordinates of node N ij is memorized. The position coordinates of node N ij are represented, for example, by the horizontal position X in FIG. 6 and the vertical position Y orthogonal to the horizontal position X. Note that the store map data 522 also has similar node data.

[0075] FIG. 8 shows an example of link data 3222 included in the store map data 322. The link data 3222 memorizes, in association with the link L, the start point, the end point, the link length P, and the weight w of the link L. For the start point of the link L, information for uniquely identifying the node corresponding to the start point, such as the node number, is memorized. For the end point of the link L, information for uniquely identifying the node corresponding to the end point, such as the node number, is memorized. Note that there is no clear definition of the start point and the end point, and either one of the nodes N at the end points constituting the link may be defined as the start point and the other node N at the end point may be defined as the end point. The actual length of the link L is memorized in the link length P. The weight w given to the link L is memorized in the weight w. The weight w may be a fixed value or may be variable according to the store clerk S as described above. Note that the store map data 522 also has similar node data and link data.

[0076] (Mapping the current positions of the customer and the store clerk to the store map data) Using FIG. 9, the content of the process in which the server device 50 maps the current positions of the customer C and the store clerk S to the store map data 322 will be described. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the process of mapping the current positions of the customer and the store clerk to the nearby nodes in the store map data.

[0077] The server device 50 maps the current position of the customer C who has requested support, acquired from the cart terminal 10, to the store map data 322, and regards the node N closest to the customer C as the current position of the customer C.

[0078] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, the server device 50 determines the node N closest to the position of the customer Ca in the store map data 322cb Determine it. Then, node N cb is regarded as the current position of customer Ca.

[0079] Also, the server device 50 fits the current position of store clerk S acquired from the store clerk terminal 30 to the store map data 322, and regards the node N closest to store clerk S as the current position of store clerk S.

[0080] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, the server device 50 determines the node N closest to the position of store clerk Sa in the store map data 322. dc Determine it. Then, node N dc is regarded as the current position of store clerk Sa. Also, the server device 50 determines the node N closest to the position of store clerk Sb in the store map data 322. cf Determine it. Then, node N cf is regarded as the current position of store clerk Sb.

[0081] (Method for selecting a store clerk to provide support) The server device 50 calculates the shortest path from node N dc , that is, the current position of store clerk Sa, to N cb , that is, the position of customer Ca. The shortest path search in the map data composed of nodes and links can be performed by a well-known path search algorithm. When performing the shortest path search, the server device 50 uses the integrated value of the link length P and the weight w instead of the actual link length P. Also, the server device 50 calculates the shortest path from node N cf , that is, the current position of store clerk Sb, to N cb , that is, the position of customer Ca. Then, the server device 50 selects the shorter one between the calculated shortest path from store clerk Sa to customer Ca and the shortest path from store clerk Sb to customer Ca. Then, the server device 50 declares that support for customer C is possible, and instructs the store clerk with the shorter distance to customer Ca among the store clerks S to provide support to customer Ca.

[0082] There are various variations in the method of selecting a store clerk to request assistance. For example, the server device 50 may instruct the store clerk with the shortest path length to customer Ca to assist customer Ca. Alternatively, the server device 50 may instruct all store clerks whose path length to customer Ca is less than a predetermined value to assist customer Ca. In the latter case, the server device 50 may cause the store clerk who replied that they would accept the instruction earliest in response to the assistance instruction to assist customer Ca.

[0083] (Screen transition of the screen displayed on the monitor of the cart terminal when calling a store clerk) Using FIG. 10, the screen transition of the screen displayed on the monitor 141 of the cart terminal 10 will be described. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the screen transition of the screen displayed on the monitor of the cart terminal when calling a store clerk.

[0084] While customer C is shopping, the cart terminal 10 displays the product registration screen 16 on the monitor 141. The product registration screen 16 includes a product list 161, a store clerk call button 162, a registration completion button 163, and a registration cancellation button 164.

[0085] The product list 161 displays product information (product name, quantity, price, etc.) of the product corresponding to the product code read by the cart terminal 10. The customer checks the product list 161 to confirm that there are no mistakes in the content of the products they are purchasing.

[0086] The store clerk call button 162 is a button to be pressed when assistance from store clerk S is required. When customer C presses the store clerk call button 162, the cart terminal 10 requests assistance from store clerk S to the server device 50.

[0087] The registration completion button 163 is a button to be pressed when the registration of all the products to be purchased is completed. When customer C presses the registration completion button 163, the cart terminal 10 outputs the product registration file 123 (see FIG. 3) to the server device 50.

[0088] The registration cancellation button 164 is a button to be pressed when canceling the registration of a product. When customer C presses the registration cancellation button 164, the cart terminal 10 then deletes the information related to the product specified by customer C from the product registration file 123.

[0089] When the staff call button 162 is pressed, the cart terminal 10 displays the staff call screen 17 on the monitor 141.

[0090] On the staff call screen 17, the support acceptance information 171 indicating that staff S is going for support is displayed superimposed on the product registration screen 16. Note that the support acceptance information 171 is displayed when the cart terminal 10 acquires information from the server device 50 indicating that staff S has accepted support.

[0091] Also, on the staff call screen 17, instead of the staff call button 162, a call cancellation button 172 is displayed. Customer C presses the call cancellation button 172 when the support of staff S is no longer required. When the call cancellation button 172 is pressed, the cart terminal 10 displays the aforementioned product registration screen 16 on the monitor 141.

[0092] (Screen transition of the screen displayed on the monitor of the staff terminal when receiving a support request from the customer) Using FIG. 11, the screen transition of the screen displayed on the monitor 341 of the staff terminal 30 when receiving a support request from customer C will be described. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the screen transition of the screen displayed on the monitor of the staff terminal when receiving a support request from the customer.

[0093] Staff S can preset whether it is possible to respond to a call or not when receiving a call from customer C by operating their own staff terminal 30.

[0094] Specifically, by pressing either the call response possible button 362 or the call response impossible button 363 displayed on the monitor 341 of the store clerk terminal 30, it is declared whether it is possible to assist customer C. When the call response possible button 362 is pressed, it can be declared that it is possible to respond to the customer's call. At this time, as shown in the screen 36 shown in FIG. 11, on the monitor 341, an assistable label 361 indicating that it has been declared that it is possible to respond to the customer's call is displayed.

[0095] On the other hand, when the call response impossible button 363 is pressed, it can be declared that it is impossible to respond to the customer's call. At this time, as shown in the screen 37 shown in FIG. 11, on the monitor 341, a non-assistable label 371 indicating that it has been declared that it is impossible to respond to the customer's call is displayed.

[0096] The store clerk S can declare at any time whether it is possible to respond to the call of customer C by pressing either the call response possible button 362 or the call response impossible button 363. Note that whether the store clerk S can or cannot respond to the call of customer C is output to the server device 50.

[0097] When an instruction to respond to customer C is received from the server device 50 in a state where it has been declared that it is possible to respond to the call of customer C, on the monitor 341 of the store clerk terminal 30, as shown in the screen 38 shown in FIG. 11, an assistance request label 381 indicating that there is a call from customer C is displayed. At this time, the store clerk terminal 30 may notify that there is an assistance request from customer C by making a sound from a buzzer or a speaker (not shown) or vibrating a vibrator (not shown).

[0098] At this time, on the screen 38, a support response acceptance button 382 for instructing that the support request from customer C is to be responded to and a support response unavailable button 383 for instructing that the support request from customer C is not to be responded to are displayed. In this way, the reason for displaying the support response acceptance button 382 and the support response unavailable button 383 is that even when it is declared that the call from the customer can be responded to, it is uncertain whether the call can actually be responded to at the time when the support is actually requested.

[0099] When the store clerk S presses the support response acceptance button 382, that fact is output to the server device 50. The server device 50 determines that the store clerk S has committed to going to support customer C, and outputs information indicating that the store clerk S is going to support to the cart terminal 10 of customer C. On the other hand, when the store clerk S presses the support response unavailable button 383, the server device 50 instructs the next candidate store clerk S to respond to the support request.

[0100] On the screen 38, when the support response acceptance button 382 is pressed, as shown in the screen 39 in FIG. 11, on the monitor 341, a customer support instruction label 391, a movement route 392, and a response completion button 393 are displayed. The customer support instruction label 391 is a label indicating that the support for customer C has been instructed. The movement route 392 represents the movement route from the current position of the store clerk S to customer C. The store clerk S goes towards customer C while checking the movement route 392.

[0101] The cart terminal 10 used by customer C who has requested support lights up the warning light 145 (see FIG. 2). Therefore, the store clerk S who approaches customer C can immediately recognize the position of customer C.

[0102] The response completion button 393 is a button that the store clerk S presses when the support for customer C is completed. When the response completion button 393 is pressed, the store clerk terminal 30 outputs to the server device 50 that the support for customer C is completed. And at this time, the display on the monitor 341 switches to the screen 36.

[0103] (Functional Configuration of Shopping Support System) Using FIG. 12, the functional configuration of the shopping support system 1 will be described. FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the shopping support system.

[0104] First, the functional configuration of the cart terminal 10 will be described. The control unit 11 of the cart terminal 10 expands and operates the control program 121 in the RAM 113 to realize, as functional units, the self-position measurement unit 21, the support request unit 22, the self-position transmission unit 23, the call cancellation unit 24, the support reception acquisition unit 25, the product code reading unit 26, the product registration unit 27, the product registration information output unit 28, and the transaction code acquisition unit 29 shown in FIG. 12. Note that some or all of these functional units may be realized by dedicated hardware.

[0105] The self-position measurement unit 21 measures its own position in the store by means of the positioning sensor 144 (see FIG. 3). Further, the self-position measurement unit 21 outputs the measured position of itself to the server device 50. The self-position measurement unit 21 is an example of the first position specifying unit in the present disclosure.

[0106] The support request unit 22 requests support from a store clerk upon receiving a customer's instruction. Specifically, when the support request unit 22 detects that the store clerk call button 162 (see FIG. 10) has been pressed, it requests support from the server device 50 for the store clerk S.

[0107] The self-position transmission unit 23 transmits its own presence to the surroundings when the support request unit 22 requests support from a store clerk. Specifically, the self-position transmission unit 23 lights or blinks the warning lamp 145 in a predetermined emission color and a predetermined emission pattern to notify its position to the surroundings.

[0108] The call cancellation unit 24 outputs information indicating that it cancels the support request for the store clerk S to the server device 50 upon receiving a customer's instruction. Specifically, when the call cancellation unit 24 detects that the call cancellation button 172 (see FIG. 10) has been pressed, it cancels the support request for the store clerk S.

[0109] The support acceptance acquisition unit 25 acquires information indicating that the store clerk S has accepted the support request from the server device 50. Further, the support acceptance acquisition unit 25 displays information indicating that the store clerk S has accepted the support request on the monitor 141. Specifically, the support acceptance acquisition unit 25 displays support acceptance information 171 (see FIG. 10) indicating that the store clerk S is going to provide support on the monitor 141.

[0110] The product code reading unit 26 reads the product code of the product registered in the code symbol covered by the scanner 143.

[0111] The product registration unit 27 registers the product code read by the product code reading unit 26 in the product registration file 123. Further, when the registration completion button 163 (see FIG. 10) is pressed, the product registration unit 27 determines that the product registration has been completed.

[0112] When the product registration is completed, the product registration information output unit 28 outputs the product registration file 123 to the server device 50 in association with the identification information that uniquely identifies the cart terminal 10.

[0113] The transaction code acquisition unit 29 acquires a transaction code that uniquely identifies the product registration file 123 from the server device 50.

[0114] Next, the functional configuration of the store clerk terminal 30 will be described. The control unit 31 of the store clerk terminal 30 realizes, as functional units, the self-position measurement unit 41, the availability notification unit 42, the call cancellation acquisition unit 43, the support instruction acquisition unit 44, and the support acceptance notification unit 45 shown in FIG. 12 by expanding and operating the control program 321 in the RAM 313. Note that some or all of these functional units may be realized by dedicated hardware.

[0115] The self-position measurement unit 41 measures its own position in the store by means of the positioning sensor 343 (see FIG. 4). Further, the self-position measurement unit 41 outputs the measured own position to the server device 50. The self-position measurement unit 41 is an example of the second position identification unit in the present disclosure.

[0116] The support availability notification unit 42 determines whether it is in a state where it can respond to the support request from the customer C or in a state where it cannot respond to the support request. Specifically, when the support available label 361 (see FIG. 11) is displayed on its monitor 341, the support availability notification unit 42 determines that it is in a state where it can respond to the support request from the customer C. On the other hand, when the support unavailable label 371 (see FIG. 11) is displayed on its monitor 341, the support availability notification unit 42 determines that it is in a state where it cannot respond to the support request from the customer C. Further, the support availability notification unit 42 outputs information indicating whether it can respond to the support request from the customer C or cannot respond to the support request to the server device 50. Specifically, the support availability notification unit 42 outputs the content of the support available label 361 (see FIG. 11) or the support unavailable label 371 (see FIG. 11) at that time to the server device 50.

[0117] The call cancellation acquisition unit 43 acquires information from the server device 50 indicating that the support request from the customer C has been cancelled.

[0118] The support instruction acquisition unit 44 acquires a support instruction for the customer C using the cart terminal 10 that has requested support from the server device 50.

[0119] The support acceptance notification unit 45 outputs information indicating that it accepts the instruction acquired by the support instruction acquisition unit 44 to the server device 50. Specifically, when the support response acceptance button 382 (see FIG. 11) displayed on the monitor 341 is pressed, the support acceptance notification unit 45 outputs information indicating that it accepts the instruction acquired by the support instruction acquisition unit 44 to the server device 50. On the other hand, when the support response unavailable button 383 (see FIG. 11) displayed on the monitor 341 is pressed, the support acceptance notification unit 45 does not output information indicating that it accepts the instruction acquired by the support instruction acquisition unit 44 to the server device 50.

[0120] Next, the functional configuration of the server device 50 will be described. By expanding and operating the control program 521 in the RAM 513, the control unit 51 of the server device 50 realizes, as functional units, a position information acquisition unit 61, a response availability acquisition unit 62, a support request acquisition unit 63, a call cancellation acquisition unit 64, a call cancellation notification unit 65, a route calculation unit 66, a store clerk terminal selection unit 67, a support instruction unit 68, a support acceptance confirmation acquisition unit 69, a support acceptance notification unit 70, a product registration information acquisition unit 71, and a transaction code issuing unit 72 shown in FIG. 12. Note that some or all of these functional units may be realized by dedicated hardware.

[0121] The position information acquisition unit 61 acquires the current positions of the cart terminal 10 and the store clerk terminal 30, respectively.

[0122] The response availability acquisition unit 62 acquires, from the store clerk terminal 30, information indicating whether the store clerk S can respond to the support request from the customer C or cannot respond to the support request.

[0123] The support request acquisition unit 63 acquires a support request from the cart terminal 10.

[0124] The call cancellation acquisition unit 64 acquires, from the cart terminal 10, information indicating that the support request to the store clerk S is to be cancelled.

[0125] The call cancellation notification unit 65 notifies the store clerk terminal 30 that the support request to the store clerk S has been cancelled.

[0126] The route calculation unit 66 calculates the length of the route along the passage between the cart terminal 10 and the store clerk terminal 30 based on the position of the cart terminal 10, the position of the store clerk terminal 30, the store map data 522 storing information related to the structure of the passage in the store and the length of the passage, and the length of the passage. Note that the route calculation unit 66 calculates the length of the shortest route from the store clerk S to the customer C based on the sum of the integrated values of the link lengths P of all the links L constituting the route from the store clerk terminal 30 to the cart terminal 10 and the weights w assigned to the links L.

[0127] The store staff terminal selection unit 67 selects a store staff member S who carries a store staff terminal 30 capable of responding to a support request from the cart terminal 10 based on the length of the route calculated by the route calculation unit 66. More specifically, the store staff terminal selection unit 67 selects a store staff terminal 30 that has declared itself capable of responding to a support request from customer C among the store staff terminals 30 located within a predetermined route length from the cart terminal 10 that has requested support. Note that the store staff terminal selection unit 67 is an example of the selection unit in the present disclosure.

[0128] The support instruction unit 68 instructs the store staff terminal 30 carried by the store staff member S selected by the store staff terminal selection unit 67 to provide support to customer C who is using the cart terminal 10.

[0129] The support acceptance confirmation acquisition unit 69 acquires information indicating acceptance of the instruction from the store staff terminal 30 to which the support instruction unit 68 has instructed support for customer C.

[0130] The support acceptance notification unit 70 outputs information indicating that store staff member S has accepted the support request to the cart terminal 10.

[0131] The product registration information acquisition unit 71 acquires the product registration file 123 and the identification information that uniquely identifies the cart terminal 10 from the cart terminal 10.

[0132] The transaction code issuing unit 72 issues a transaction code that uniquely identifies the product registration file 123 acquired from the cart terminal 10. In addition, the transaction code issuing unit 72 outputs the issued transaction code to the cart terminal 10.

[0133] (Flow of processing performed by the cart terminal) Using FIG. 13, the flow of processing performed by the cart terminal 10 when customer C issues a support request will be described. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing performed by the cart terminal when the customer issues a support request.

[0134] The self-position measurement unit 21 measures the current position of the cart terminal 10 (step S11).

[0135] The own position measurement unit 21 outputs the current position of the cart terminal 10 to the server device 50 (step S12).

[0136] The support request unit 22 determines whether there is a support request from the customer C (step S13). If it is determined that there is a support request from the customer C (step S13: Yes), the process proceeds to step S14. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no support request from the customer C (step S13: No), the process proceeds to step S21. Note that the support request unit 22 determines that there is a support request from the customer C when it detects that the store employee call button 162 (see FIG. 10) has been pressed.

[0137] In step S13, when it is determined that there is a support request from the customer C, the own position transmission unit 23 lights the warning lamp 145 in a predetermined emission color (step S14). Note that the own position transmission unit 23 may blink the warning lamp 145 in a predetermined blinking pattern.

[0138] The support request unit 22 requests the server device 50 to support the store employee S (step S15).

[0139] The support acceptance acquisition unit 25 determines whether it has acquired information indicating that the store employee S has accepted the support request from the server device 50 (step S16). If it is determined that it has acquired information indicating that the store employee S has accepted the support request (step S16: Yes), the process proceeds to step S17. On the other hand, if it is determined that it has not acquired information indicating that the store employee S has accepted the support request (step S16: No), the determination in step S16 is repeated.

[0140] In step S16, when it is determined that the support acceptance acquisition unit 25 has acquired information indicating that the store employee S has accepted the support request, the support acceptance acquisition unit 25 displays support acceptance information 171 (see FIG. 10) indicating that the store employee S is going to provide support on the monitor 141 (step S17).

[0141] The call cancellation unit 24 determines whether an instruction to cancel the support request has been given (step S18). If it is determined that an instruction to cancel the support request has been given (step S18: Yes), the process proceeds to step S19. On the other hand, if it is determined that an instruction to cancel the support request has not been given over a predetermined time (step S18: No), the cart terminal 10 ends the process.

[0142] In step S18, when it is determined that an instruction to cancel the support request has been given, the call cancellation unit 24 outputs information indicating to cancel the support request for the store clerk S to the server device 50 (step S19).

[0143] The call cancellation unit 24 turns off the warning lamp 145 that was lit in step S14 (step S20). Thereafter, the cart terminal 10 ends the process.

[0144] Returning to step S13, if it is determined that there is no support request from the customer C, the product code reading unit 26 determines whether the product code registered in the code symbol shielded by the scanner 143 has been read (step S21). If it is determined that the product code has been read (step S21: Yes), the process proceeds to step S22. On the other hand, if it is determined that the product code has not been read, the process returns to step S11.

[0145] In step S21, when it is determined that the product code has been read, the product registration unit 27 registers the product code read by the product code reading unit 26 in the product registration file 123 (step S22).

[0146] The product registration unit 27 determines whether the product registration has been completed (step S23). If it is determined that the product registration has been completed (step S23: Yes), the process proceeds to step S24. On the other hand, if it is determined that the product registration has not been completed (step S23: No), the process returns to step S11. Note that the product registration unit 27 determines that the product registration has been completed when the registration completion button 163 (see FIG. 10) is pressed.

[0147] In step S23, when it is determined that the product registration has been completed, the product registration information output unit 28 outputs the product registration file 123 to the server device 50 in association with the identification information that uniquely identifies the cart terminal 10 (step S24).

[0148] The transaction code acquisition unit 29 determines whether it has acquired a transaction code from the server device 50 (step S25). When it is determined that the transaction code has been acquired (step S25: Yes), the cart terminal 10 ends the process. On the other hand, when it is determined that the transaction code has not been acquired (step S25: No), the determination in step S25 is repeated.

[0149] Although not shown in the flowchart of FIG. 13, the customer C who has completed the product registration moves to the location of the settlement device 80. Then, the customer C causes the transaction code acquired in step S25 described above to be displayed on the monitor 141 of the cart terminal 10, and causes a scanner (not shown) provided in the settlement device 80 to read the transaction code. The settlement device 80 acquires the details of the transaction corresponding to the read transaction code, that is, the product registration file 123, from the server device 50, and settles the product price by the method specified by the customer C (for example, cash settlement, credit settlement, electronic money settlement, code settlement, etc.).

[0150] (Flow of processing performed by the server device) Using FIG. 14, the flow of processing performed by the server device 50 when the customer C issues a support request will be described. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing performed by the server device when the customer issues a support request.

[0151] The position information acquisition unit 61 acquires the current position of the cart terminal 10 (step S31).

[0152] The position information acquisition unit 61 acquires the current position of the store clerk terminal 30 (step S32).

[0153] The support availability acquisition unit 62 acquires information indicating whether all the store employee terminals 30 can respond to the support request from the customer C or cannot respond to the support request from the customer C (step S33).

[0154] The support request acquisition unit 63 determines whether it has acquired a support request from the cart terminal 10 (step S34). If it is determined that a support request has been acquired (step S34: Yes), the process proceeds to step S35. On the other hand, if it is determined that a support request has not been acquired (step S34: No), the process proceeds to step S42.

[0155] In step S34, when it is determined that a support request has been acquired, the route calculation unit 66 calculates the length of the route from all the store employee terminals 30 carried by the store employees S who can respond to the support request from the customer C to the customer C who requested the support (to the cart terminal 10) (step S35).

[0156] Based on the length of the route calculated by the route calculation unit 66, the store employee terminal selection unit 67 selects the store employee S who carries the store employee terminal 30 capable of responding to the support request from the cart terminal 10 (step S36).

[0157] The support instruction unit 68 instructs the store employee terminal 30 carried by the store employee S selected by the store employee terminal selection unit 67 to provide support to the customer C using the cart terminal 10 (step S37).

[0158] The support acceptance confirmation acquisition unit 69 determines whether it has acquired information indicating acceptance of the support instruction from the store employee terminal 30 to which the support instruction unit 68 has instructed support for the customer C (step S38). If it is determined that information indicating acceptance of the support instruction has been acquired (step S38: Yes), the process proceeds to step S39. On the other hand, if it is determined that information indicating acceptance of the support instruction has not been acquired (step S38: No), the determination in step S38 is repeated.

[0159] In step S38, when it is determined that information indicating acceptance of the assistance instruction has been acquired, the assistance acceptance notification unit 70 outputs information indicating that the store clerk S has accepted the assistance request to the cart terminal 10 that made the assistance request (step S39).

[0160] The call cancellation acquisition unit 64 determines whether information indicating cancellation of the assistance request has been acquired from the cart terminal 10 (step S40). If it is determined that information indicating cancellation of the assistance request has been acquired (step S40: Yes), the process proceeds to step S41. On the other hand, if it is determined that information indicating cancellation of the assistance request has not been acquired (step S40: No), the determination in step S40 is repeated.

[0161] In step S40, when it is determined that information indicating cancellation of the assistance request has been acquired, the call cancellation notification unit 65 notifies the store clerk terminal 30 that the assistance request has been cancelled (step S41). Thereafter, the process returns to step S31.

[0162] Returning to step S34, if it is not determined that an assistance request has been acquired from the cart terminal 10, the merchandise registration information acquisition unit 71 determines whether the merchandise registration file 123 has been acquired from the cart terminal 10 (step S42). If it is determined that the merchandise registration file 123 has been acquired from the cart terminal 10 (step S42: Yes), the process proceeds to step S43. On the other hand, if it is determined that the merchandise registration file 123 has not been acquired from the cart terminal 10 (step S42: No), the process returns to step S31.

[0163] In step S42, when it is determined that the merchandise registration file 123 has been acquired from the cart terminal 10, the transaction code issuing unit 72 issues a transaction code that uniquely identifies the merchandise registration file 123 acquired from the cart terminal 10 (step S43).

[0164] Subsequently, the transaction code issuing unit 72 outputs the issued transaction code to the cart terminal 10 (step S44). Thereafter, the server device 50 ends the process.

[0165] (Flow of processing performed by the store employee terminal) Using FIG. 15, the flow of processing performed by the store employee terminal 30 when customer C issues a support request will be described. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing performed by the store employee terminal when the customer issues a support request.

[0166] The self-position measurement unit 41 measures the current position of the store employee terminal 30 (step S51).

[0167] The self-position measurement unit 41 outputs the current position of the store employee terminal 30 to the server device 50 (step S52).

[0168] The response availability notification unit 42 determines whether it is in a state where it can respond to the support request from customer C or in a state where it cannot respond to the support request (step S53). If it is determined that it is in a state where it can respond to the support request from customer C (step S53: Yes), the process proceeds to step S54. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is not in a state where it can respond to the support request from customer C (step S53: No), the process proceeds to step S58.

[0169] In step S53, if it is determined that it is in a state where it can respond to the support request from customer C, the support instruction acquisition unit 44 determines from the server device 50 whether a support instruction for customer C has been issued (step S54). If it is determined that a support instruction for customer C has been issued (step S54: Yes), the process proceeds to step S55. On the other hand, if it is determined that a support instruction for customer C has not been issued (step S54: No), the process returns to step S51.

[0170] In step S54, when it is determined that a support instruction for customer C has been given, the support acceptance notification unit 45 determines whether to accept the support request (step S55). If it is determined to accept the support request (step S55: Yes), the process proceeds to step S56. On the other hand, if it is determined not to accept the support request (step S55: No), the clerk terminal 30 ends the process. Note that the support acceptance notification unit 45 determines that the clerk S carrying the clerk terminal 30 accepts the support request when the support response acceptance button 382 (see FIG. 11) displayed on the monitor 341 of the clerk terminal 30 is pressed. On the other hand, when the support response unavailable button 383 (see FIG. 11) displayed on the monitor 341 of the clerk terminal 30 is pressed, it is not determined that the clerk S carrying the clerk terminal 30 accepts the support request.

[0171] In step S55, when it is determined that the clerk S carrying the clerk terminal 30 accepts the support request, the support acceptance notification unit 45 notifies the server device 50 of information indicating that the clerk S carrying the clerk terminal 30 accepts the support request (step S56). Thereafter, the clerk S moves to the location of customer C along the movement route 392 displayed on the monitor 341 of the clerk terminal 30 to support customer C.

[0172] The call cancellation acquisition unit 43 determines whether it has acquired information from the server device 50 indicating that the support request from customer C has been cancelled (step S57). If it is determined that the information indicating that the support request from customer C has been cancelled has been acquired (step S57: Yes), the call cancellation acquisition unit 43 deletes the support request accepted in step S55, and the clerk terminal 30 ends the process. On the other hand, if it is not determined that the information indicating that the support request from customer C has been cancelled has been acquired, the determination in step S57 is repeated.

[0173] Returning to step S53, if it is not determined that the clerk terminal 30 is in a state where it can respond to the support request from customer C, the response availability notification unit 42 notifies the server device 50 of information indicating that it cannot respond to the support request from customer C (step S58). Thereafter, the process returns to step S51.

[0174] (Operational Effects of the Embodiment) As described above, the shopping support system 1 of the present embodiment includes a cart terminal 10 (first terminal device) that guides the customer C through the store during shopping, a store clerk terminal 30 (second terminal device) carried by the store clerk S, and a server device 50 communicably connected to the cart terminal 10 and the store clerk terminal 30. The cart terminal 10 includes a self-position measurement unit 21 (first position identification unit) that identifies its own position in the store and outputs the identified position to the server device 50, a support request unit 22 that receives an instruction from the customer C and requests support from the store clerk S, and a self-position transmission unit 23 that transmits its own presence to the surroundings when the support request unit 22 requests support. The server device 50 includes a position information acquisition unit 61 that acquires the current positions of the cart terminal 10 and the store clerk terminal 30, a support request acquisition unit 63 that acquires a support request from the cart terminal 10, and a store map data 522 (map information) that stores information related to the position of the cart terminal 10, the position of the store clerk terminal 30, the structure of the passageway in the store, and the length of the passageway. Based on this, a path calculation unit 66 that calculates the length of the path along the passageway between the cart terminal 10 and the store clerk terminal 30, a store clerk terminal selection unit 67 (selection unit) that selects a store clerk S carrying the store clerk terminal 30 capable of responding to the support request from the cart terminal 10 based on the length of the path calculated by the path calculation unit 66, and a support instruction unit 68 that instructs the store clerk terminal 30 carried by the store clerk S selected by the store clerk terminal selection unit 67 to provide support to the customer C using the cart terminal 10. The store clerk terminal 30 includes a self-position measurement unit 41 (second position identification unit) that identifies its own position in the store and outputs the identified position to the server device 50, and a support instruction acquisition unit 44 that acquires a support instruction for the customer C using the cart terminal 10 that has requested support from the server device 50. Therefore, it is possible to direct the store clerk S who can respond to the support request of the customer C as quickly as possible to provide support to the customer C.

[0175] Also, in the shopping support system 1 of the present embodiment, the store map data 522 (map information) represents the structure of the passageways in the store by nodes N indicating coordinate positions and links L connecting the nodes. The link L stores a link length P which is the length of the link L and a weight w of the link L which is a coefficient integrated with the link length P when calculating the route. The route calculation unit 66 calculates the route based on the sum of the integrated values of the link length P and the weight w of the link. Therefore, since a weight w can be assigned to the link, it is possible to set how well prepared one is to respond promptly to the support for the customer C.

[0176] Also, in the shopping support system 1 of the present embodiment, a link L from the sales floor of the store to the backyard is given a weight w greater than 1. Therefore, a store clerk S taking a break in the backyard can make it difficult for a store clerk S inside the store to respond to a support request from the customer C.

[0177] Also, in the shopping support system 1 of the present embodiment, the store clerk terminal 30 further includes a response availability notification unit 42 that outputs information indicating whether it can respond to a support request from the customer C or cannot respond to a support request from the customer C to the server device 50. The support instruction unit 68 of the server device 50 does not instruct support for the customer C to the store clerk terminal 30 that has output information indicating that it cannot respond to a support request from the customer C. Therefore, even if a store clerk S who cannot respond to a support request is in the vicinity of the customer C who requested the support, it is possible not to instruct support for the customer C.

[0178] Also, in the shopping support system 1 of the present embodiment, the support instruction unit 68 instructs support for the customer C to the store clerk terminal 30 that has declared that it can respond to a support request from the customer C among the store clerk terminals 30 existing within a location within a predetermined route length from the cart terminal 10. Therefore, when there are a plurality of store clerks S who can respond to a support request from the customer C, it is possible to instruct support for the customer C to the plurality of candidate store clerks S. This can increase the options for the store clerk S going to provide support.

[0179] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. This novel embodiment can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are also included in the invention described in the claims and its equivalent scope.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0180] 1 Shopping support system 10 Cart terminal (first terminal device) 123 Product registration file 141 Monitor 142 Touch panel 143 Scanner 144 Positioning sensor 145 Warning light 16 Product registration screen 161 Product list 162 Store clerk call button 163 Registration completion button 164 Registration cancellation button 17 Store clerk call screen 171 Support acceptance information 172 Call cancellation button 2 In-store network 21 Self-positioning unit (first position identification unit) 22 Support request unit 23 Self-position transmission unit 24 Call cancellation unit 25 Support acceptance acquisition unit 26 Product code reading unit 27 Product registration unit 28 Product registration information output unit 29 Transaction code acquisition unit 3 Access point 30 Store clerk terminal (second terminal device) 322 Store map data (map information) 3221 Node Data 3222 Link Data 36, 37, 38, 39 Screens 361 Supportable Label 362 Call-Respondable Button 363 Call-Respondable-Unable Button 371 Unsupportable Label 381 Support Request Label 382 Support-Response-Accept Button 383 Support-Response-Unable Button 391 Customer Support Instruction Label 392 Movement Route 393 Response Completion Button 4 Shopping Cart 41 Self-Position Measurement Unit (Second Position Identification Unit) 42 Response Availability Notification Unit 43 Call Cancellation Acquisition Unit 44 Support Instruction Acquisition Unit 45 Support Acceptance Notification Unit 6 Display Shelf 50 Server Device 522 Store Map Data (Map Information) 523 Product Registration File 61 Position Information Acquisition Unit 62 Response Availability Acquisition Unit 63 Support Request Acquisition Unit 64 Call Cancellation Acquisition Unit 65 Call Cancellation Notification Unit 66 Route Calculation Unit 67 Store Clerk Terminal Selection Unit (Selection Unit) 68 Support Instruction Unit 69 Support Acceptance Confirmation Acquisition Unit 70 Support Acceptance Notification Unit 71 Product Registration Information Acquisition Unit 72 Transaction Code Issuing Unit 80 Cash Register C, Ca Customers S, Sa, Sb Store Clerks L, L ij-pq Link M Store Map N, N ij Node P Link Length w weight

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0181]

Patent Document 1

Claims

1. During shopping, a first terminal device that guides a customer through the store, a second terminal device carried by a store clerk, and a server device communicably connected to the first terminal device and the second terminal device, wherein the first terminal device has a first position specifying unit that specifies its own position in the store and outputs the specified position to the server device, a support request unit that receives a customer's instruction and requests support from the store clerk, and a self-position transmission unit that transmits its own presence to the surroundings when the support request unit requests support, the server device has a position information acquisition unit that acquires the current positions of the first terminal device and the second terminal device, a support request acquisition unit that acquires a support request from the first terminal device, a path calculation unit that calculates the length of the path along the passage between the first terminal device and the second terminal device based on the position of the first terminal device, the position of the second terminal device, map information storing information related to the structure of the passage in the store and the length of the passage, a selection unit that selects a store clerk carrying the second terminal device capable of responding to the support request from the first terminal device based on the length of the path calculated by the path calculation unit, and a support instruction unit that instructs support for the customer using the first terminal device to the second terminal device carried by the store clerk selected by the selection unit, the second terminal device has a second position specifying unit that specifies its own position in the store and outputs the specified position to the server device, and a support instruction acquisition unit that acquires a support instruction for the customer using the first terminal device that has requested support from the server device, A shopping support system.

2. The map information represents the structure of the passage in the store by nodes indicating coordinate positions and links connecting the nodes, the link stores a link length that is the length of the link and a link weight that is a coefficient integrated with the link length when calculating the path, and the path calculation unit calculates the path based on the sum of the integrated values of the link length and the link weight, The shopping support system according to claim 1.

3. A link from the sales floor of the store to the backyard is given a link weight greater than 1, The shopping support system according to claim 2.

4. The second terminal device The server device further includes a response availability notification unit that outputs information indicating whether it can respond to a support request from a customer or cannot respond to a support request from a customer. The support instruction unit of the server device does not instruct support for the customer to the second terminal device that has output information indicating that it cannot respond to a support request from the customer. The shopping support system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The support instruction unit instructs support for the customer to the second terminal device that has declared that it can respond to a support request from the customer among the second terminal devices existing within a predetermined path length from the first terminal device. The shopping support system according to claim 4.

6. A computer that controls a first terminal device that guides a customer inside a store during shopping, a first position specifying unit that specifies its own position in the store and outputs the specified position to the server device, a support request unit that receives an instruction from the customer and requests support from a store clerk, a self-position transmission unit that transmits its own presence to the surroundings when the support request unit requests support, and causes it to function, a computer that controls a second terminal device carried by a store clerk, a second position specifying unit that specifies its own position in the store and outputs the specified position to the server device, a support instruction acquisition unit that acquires a support instruction for a customer using the first terminal device that has requested support from the server device, and causes it to function, a computer that controls a server device communicably connected to the first terminal device and the second terminal device, a position information acquisition unit that acquires the current positions of the first terminal device and the second terminal device, a support request acquisition unit that acquires a support request from the first terminal device, a path calculation unit that calculates the length of the path along the passage between the first terminal device and the second terminal device based on the position of the first terminal device, the position of the second terminal device, map information storing information related to the structure of the passage in the store and the length of the passage, a selection unit that selects a store clerk carrying the second terminal device capable of responding to a support request from the first terminal device based on the length of the path calculated by the path calculation unit, a support instruction unit that instructs support for the customer using the first terminal device to the second terminal device carried by the store clerk selected by the selection unit, and a program that causes it to function.

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