Store support mobile body

Abstract

To surely advertise to users who see a signage display and wish to place an order at a store, to accept the order, to improve user convenience, and to promote store sales.SOLUTION: A store support mobile body 100 includes a signage display 11 and communicates with a store terminal device 200 used in a store 20. A self-propelled device 150 performs autonomous driving. An advertising device 110 displays advertisements on a large signage display 11 provided on the side in a direction of travel, which is the widest surface of the store support mobile body 100, and advertises to users through advertisements displayed on the widest side while self-propelling.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a store support mobile body, a store support method, and a store support program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, mobile signage has been used. Mobile signage is a moving body that provides information such as store promotion or introduction of recommended products in the store while moving. Current mobile signage is only for promotion. When a user wants to purchase a product, they ultimately need to go to the store. If the store is a restaurant or the like, they need to go to the restaurant, place an order, and wait until the ordered food is ready. Also, when the product is a physical item, they need to go to the store to pick it up.

[0003]

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses a retail system that supports the completion of sales by interacting with customers.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] In the current mobile signage, it is only used for store promotion. When a user wants to purchase a product, they ultimately have to go to the store. Also, even if they want to go to the store, they may not know the location of the relevant store and ultimately cannot make a purchase and end up just staying with the promotion. Therefore, with the current mobile signage, although it can improve the user's purchasing desire through promotion, there is a problem that it is difficult to surely link the improvement of the user's purchasing desire by promotion to the store's sales.

[0007] Also, Patent Document 1 discloses a retail system that supports the completion of sales by interacting with customers. In the retail system of Patent Document 1, the user has to find the retail system, and if the retail system is not found, they cannot place an order. Also, even if they find the retail system and place an order, if they want to make a purchase, they have to go to the store themselves. Moreover, in the retail system of Patent Document 1, there is a problem that there is no method to directly link the improvement of the user's purchasing desire by promotion to the store's sales.

[0008] In the present disclosure, the purpose is to surely promote to users who hope to place an order at the store after seeing the signage display, accept the order, improve the convenience of the users, and promote the store's sales.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0009] The store support mobile body according to the present disclosure is a store support mobile body that communicates with a store terminal device used in a store, a self-driving device that performs autonomous driving, a signage display that displays advertisements, and a promotion device provided on the side with respect to the traveling direction, and is provided with.

Effect of the Invention

[0010] The store support mobile body according to the present disclosure includes a self-driving device that performs autonomous driving and a promotional device that includes a signage display for displaying advertisements on a side surface with respect to the traveling direction. Therefore, when the widest surface of the store support mobile body is the side surface with respect to the traveling direction, a large signage display can be provided on the widest side surface of the store support mobile body, and the store support mobile body can display advertisements on the widest side surface while self-driving to promote to users, improving the convenience of the users and having the effect of promoting the sales of the store.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011]

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[0012] Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In each figure, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. In the description of the embodiment, the description of the same or corresponding parts will be omitted or simplified as appropriate. Also, in the following figures, the relationship of the sizes of the respective constituent members may be different from the actual ones. Further, in the description of the embodiment, directions or positions such as up, down, left, right, front, back, front side, and back side may be shown. These notations are for convenience of explanation and do not limit the arrangement, direction, and orientation of the device, instrument, or parts, etc.

[0013] Embodiment 1. ***Description of Configuration*** FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration example of a store support system 500 according to this embodiment. The store support system 500 according to this embodiment is a system that supports a store using a mobile body such as an AMR or a PMV that autonomously travels inside a facility for the purpose of signage. AMR is an abbreviation for Aautonomous Mobile Robot. PMV is an abbreviation for Personal Mobility Vehicle. The store support system 500 includes a plurality of store support mobile bodies 100 and a store terminal device 200 that communicates with each store support mobile body 100 via a network. The store terminal device 200 is arranged in each store 20. If there are multiple stores 20, there will also be multiple store terminal devices 200.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of use of the store support mobile body 100 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the store support mobile body 100 according to the present embodiment. The store support mobile body 100 is, for example, a signage type AMR. The store support mobile body 100 is also referred to as a signage type transport robot. The store support mobile body 100 circulates within a facility such as a resort facility or a shopping mall, and aims to promote the stores within the facility to the users 10 of the facility. The store support mobile body 100 usually performs autonomous low-speed driving according to a preset driving route. Since the purpose of the store support mobile body 100 is to promote the store 20 to the user 10 in the facility, it drives at a safe speed for the user 10 and at an appropriate speed at which the user 10 can view the advertisement. Alternatively, a control device that controls all the store support mobile bodies 100 may control the driving route and the safe speed of each store support mobile body 100.

[0015] The store support mobile body 100 is an autonomous mobile body that autonomously drives along a driving route. As shown in FIG. 3, the store support mobile body 100 has, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped shape in which the side surface in the traveling direction is the widest surface. The store support mobile body 100 is provided with a signage display 11 for displaying advertisements. Various types of information for introducing the store 20 are displayed on the signage display 11. The information displayed on the signage display 11 is also referred to as signage information or signage display. In FIG. 2, the signage display 11 is provided on the side surface of the store support mobile body 100 with respect to the traveling direction. That is, the signage display 11 is largely provided on the widest side surface of the store support mobile body 100.

[0016] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a functional configuration example of the store support mobile body 100 according to the present embodiment. The store support mobile unit 100 is a mobile unit equipped with a computer. Specifically, the store support mobile unit 100 includes a processor 910 and other hardware such as a memory 921, an auxiliary storage device 922, and a communication device 950. Although not shown in the figure, it also includes other hardware such as an input interface and an output interface. The processor 910 is connected to other hardware via wired communication or wireless communication and controls these other hardware. In addition, the store support mobile unit 100 includes a signage display 11, a touch panel 12, a microphone 13, a speaker 14, a rider 15, a camera 16, and a vehicle unit 17. These hardware components are also connected to other hardware via wired communication or wireless communication. The store support mobile unit 100 may be equipped with a plurality of cameras 16 in the front and rear.

[0017] The processor 910 includes, as functional elements, a publicity device 110, an order device 120, a guidance device 130, a delivery device 140, and an autonomous driving device 150. For the publicity device 110, the order device 120, the guidance device 130, the delivery device 140, and the autonomous driving device 150, "device" may be read as "unit". Further, when "device" in the publicity device 110, the order device 120, the guidance device 130, the delivery device 140, and the autonomous driving device 150 is read as "unit", "unit" may be further read as "circuit", "process", "procedure", "processing", "device", or "circuitry".

[0018] The processor 910, the memory 921, the auxiliary storage device 922, and the communication device 950 are the same as the description of the hardware of the store terminal device 200 to be described later. In addition, the functions of the signage display 11, the touch panel 12, the microphone 13, the speaker 14, the rider 15, the camera 16, and the vehicle unit 17 will be described later.

[0019] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the store terminal device 200 according to the present embodiment. The store terminal device 200 is a computer. The store terminal device 200 includes a processor 910 and other hardware such as a memory 921, an auxiliary storage device 922, an input interface 930, an output interface 940, and a communication device 950. The processor 910 is connected to other hardware via wired communication or wireless communication and controls these other hardware components.

[0020] As functional elements, the store terminal device 200 includes an order reception unit 210, a store processing unit 220, and a storage unit 230. The functions of the order reception unit 210 and the store processing unit 220 are realized by software. The storage unit 230 is provided in the memory 921. Note that the storage unit 230 may be provided in the auxiliary storage device 922, or may be distributed and provided in both the memory 921 and the auxiliary storage device 922.

[0021] The processor 910 is a device that executes a store support program. The store support program is a program that realizes the functions of the store support system 500. The functions of the store support system 500 include the functions of the store support mobile body 100 and the functions of the store terminal device 200. The processor 910 is an IC that performs arithmetic processing. Specific examples of the processor 910 are a CPU, a DSP, and a GPU. IC is an abbreviation for Integrated Circuit. CPU is an abbreviation for Central Processing Unit. DSP is an abbreviation for Digital Signal Processor. GPU is an abbreviation for Graphics Processing Unit.

[0022] The memory 921 is a storage device that temporarily stores data. Specific examples of the memory 921 are SRAM or DRAM. SRAM is an abbreviation for Static Random Access Memory. DRAM is an abbreviation for Dynamic Random Access Memory. The auxiliary storage device 922 is a storage device for storing data. A specific example of the auxiliary storage device 922 is an HDD. Also, the auxiliary storage device 922 may be a portable storage medium such as an SD (registered trademark) memory card, CF, NAND flash, flexible disk, optical disk, compact disk, Blu-ray (registered trademark) disk, or DVD. Note that HDD is an abbreviation for Hard Disk Drive. SD (registered trademark) is an abbreviation for Secure Digital. CF is an abbreviation for CompactFlash (registered trademark). DVD is an abbreviation for Digital Versatile Disk.

[0023] The input interface 930 is a port connected to an input device such as a mouse, keyboard, or touch panel. Specifically, the input interface 930 is a USB terminal. Note that the input interface 930 may be a port connected to a LAN. USB is an abbreviation for Universal Serial Bus. LAN is an abbreviation for Local Area Network.

[0024] The output interface 940 is a port to which a cable of an output device such as a display is connected. Specifically, the output interface 940 is a USB terminal or an HDMI (registered trademark) terminal. The display is specifically an LCD. The output interface 940 is also referred to as a display interface. HDMI (registered trademark) is an abbreviation for High Definition Multimedia Interface. LCD is an abbreviation for Liquid Crystal Display.

[0025] The communication device 950 has a receiver and a transmitter. The communication device 950 is connected to a communication network such as a LAN, the Internet, WiFi (registered trademark), or a telephone line. Specifically, the communication device 950 is a communication chip or a NIC. NIC is an abbreviation for Network Interface Card.

[0026] The store support program is executed on each device of the store support system 500 such as the store support mobile unit 100 or the store terminal device 200. The store support program is loaded into the processor 910 and executed by the processor 910. In the memory 921, not only the store support program but also an OS (Operating System) is stored. The processor 910 executes the store support program while executing the OS. The store support program and the OS may be stored in the auxiliary storage device 922. The store support program and the OS stored in the auxiliary storage device 922 are loaded into the memory 921 and executed by the processor 910. Note that part or all of the store support program may be incorporated into the OS.

[0027] Each device of the store support system 500 may include a plurality of processors that replace the processor 910. These multiple processors share the execution of the store support program. Each processor is a device that executes the store support program in the same manner as the processor 910.

[0028] Data, information, signal values, and variable values used, processed, or output by the store support program are stored in the memory 921, the auxiliary storage device 922, or registers or cache memory within the processor 910.

[0029] The "part" of each part of each device of the store support system 500 may be read as "circuit", "step", "procedure", "process", "device", or "circuitry". The store support program causes a computer to execute store support processing. The "processing" of each part of each device of the store support system 500 may be read as "program", "program product", "computer-readable storage medium storing a program", or "computer-readable recording medium recording a program". Also, the store support method is a method performed by each device of the store support system 500 executing the store support program. The store support program may be stored in and provided on a computer-readable recording medium. Further, the store support program may be provided as a program product.

[0030] ***Explanation of Operations*** Next, the operations of the store support system 500 according to the present embodiment will be described. The operation procedure of the store support system 500 corresponds to the store support method. Further, the program that realizes the operations of the store support system 500 corresponds to the store support program.

[0031] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing examples of the advertising process and the order process among the operations of the store support system 500 according to the present embodiment.

[0032] <Advertising Process> In step S101, the store support mobile unit 100 autonomously travels inside the facility while displaying an advertisement for the store 20 on the signage display 11.

[0033] The self-driving device 150 performs the autonomous driving of the store support mobile unit 100. The self-driving device 150 performs autonomous driving according to a preset driving route for each store support mobile unit 100. Alternatively, the store support system 500 may include a control device that controls all the store support mobile units 100. The control device may transmit a driving route to each store support mobile unit 100 and control the autonomous driving of all the store support mobile units 100.

[0034] Specifically, the advertising device 110 displays an advertisement for the store 20 on the signage display 11. The advertising device 110 acquires the advertisement display content from the store 20 via the communication device 950 and displays it on the signage display 11. Alternatively, the advertising device 110 acquires the advertisement display content from the control device via the communication device 950 and displays it on the signage display 11. For example, the advertising device 110 may have functions such as performing a determined advertisement or voice guidance when it comes to a specific position and at a specific time. Further, the self-propelled device 150 may have a function of traveling to the position of the user 10 and turning the signage display 11 toward the user 10.

[0035] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the store support mobile body 100 according to the present embodiment as viewed from the P direction in FIG. 3. The self-propelled device 150 can change the traveling direction and rotate the orientation. The store support mobile body 100 includes auxiliary wheels at the front and rear in the traveling direction, respectively, and main wheels between the respective front and rear auxiliary wheels. The self-propelled device 150 can rotate the orientation of the store support mobile body 100 by turning the respective front and rear auxiliary wheels in opposite directions to each other.

[0036] When the store support mobile body 100 arrives at the position of the user 10, it has a function of rotating the orientation so that the signage display 11 faces the user 10. When the store support mobile body 100 approaches the user 10 and reaches a predetermined distance, it turns so as to face the user 10 with the side signage display 11. Then, the store support mobile body 100 displays an advertisement on the signage display 11 and starts guiding.

[0037] The store support mobile body 100 recognizes the user 10, who is the target person, by the front and rear cameras 16, automatically selects the user 10, and starts guiding or tracking. Note that the store support mobile body 100 may select a specific person registered in advance by face recognition as the user 10 as an automatic selection. Further, the store support mobile body 100 may arbitrarily select the recognized individual as the user 10 as an automatic selection. Alternatively, the store support mobile body 100 may recognize the person who called out as the user 10 using voice recognition as an automatic selection.

[0038] <Order processing> In steps S102 and S103, the order device 120 uses the signage display 11 to prompt the user 10 to enter an order for the store 20 and notifies the store terminal device 200 of the order entered by the user 10. The order device 120 may have a function for performing settlement. An example of order processing is as follows.

[0039] <<Example 1 of Order Processing>> FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the order reception screen 21 according to the present embodiment. The signage display 11 is a touch panel 12. For example, when the user 10 touches a button such as "Order Start" included in the advertisement displayed on the signage display 11, an order reception screen 21 for receiving an order input by the user 10 is displayed on the signage display 11. In this way, the order device 120 obtains an order by prompting the user 10 to enter an order via the signage display 11. Then, the order device 120 notifies the store terminal device 200 of the order by transmitting the order to the store terminal device 200.

[0040] Note that a touch panel 12 may be provided separately from the signage display 11, and the order reception screen 21 may be displayed on a touch panel 12 different from the signage display 11.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 8, the order reception screen 21 has a configuration like a ticket vending machine, but it is also possible to call a store staff member and ask questions as needed. For example, by touching the "Call with Store" button on the order reception screen 21, the user 10 can communicate with the store clerk of the store 20 using the microphone 13 and the speaker 14.

[0042] <<Example 2 of Order Processing>> The order device 120 may obtain an order by having an order input through the microphone 13 provided in the store support mobile body 100. The order device 120 has a voice recognition function and converts the voice input from the microphone 13 into text. Then, the order device 120 notifies the store terminal device 200 of the order by transmitting the text-converted order to the store terminal device 200.

[0043] <<Example 3 of order processing>> The order device 120 allows the user 10 to communicate with the store using the microphone 13 and the speaker 14 provided in the store support mobile body 100, thereby inputting an order and notifying the store terminal device 200.

[0044] <<Example 4 of order processing>> The order device 120 may display a two-dimensional code for displaying the website of the store 20 that accepts orders on the signage display 11. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the order device 120 displays a QR code (registered trademark) of the website of the store 20 on the signage display 11. QR is an abbreviation for Quick Response. The order device 120 causes the user 10's portable terminal device to read the two-dimensional code. The user 10 inputs an order from the website of the store 20 displayed on their own portable terminal device, and then transmits the order from the portable terminal device to the store terminal device 200. In this way, the order device 120 allows the user 10 to input an order from the portable terminal device and notifies the store terminal device 200. The user 10's portable terminal device is, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a mobile phone, or a personal digital assistant, etc.

[0045] In step S201, the order reception unit 210 of the store terminal device 200 receives the notified order. The store processing unit 220 of the store terminal device 200 performs necessary processing such as outputting the notified order to an output device. In step S202, at the store 20, the preparation of the ordered items or the ordered service is started.

[0046] When the store 20 is of the type where the user 10 visits to receive food or services, such as a restaurant, the user 10 is guided to the store 20 by the store support mobile unit 100. When the store 20 is a restaurant, upon receiving an order, the store 20 secures a seat and starts cooking aiming for the scheduled arrival time. If the store is full, the store 20 can also stop taking orders. When the user 10 arrives, the store 20 guides the user 10 to the secured seat, shortening the waiting time and bringing out the food. This function utilizes the function of the signage "moving", which also has effectiveness such as shortening the waiting time and is beneficial to both the user 10 and the store 20.

[0047] Also, the store support mobile unit 100 can be used in places such as hospitals or government offices. For example, it can also be used as a guide when saying "Next, please go to the internal medicine department". At the destination (the internal medicine department in the example), information is received in advance, and by preparing for the purpose before the person arrives, the work can be made more efficient. The guidance process will be explained in detail later.

[0048] Also, when the store 20 is like a grocery store and the user 10 only needs to be able to purchase the ordered items without having to go to the store 20, the store support mobile unit 100 delivers the ordered items to the user 10. The delivery process will be explained in detail later.

[0049] In step S104, the guidance device 130 determines whether to guide the user 10 who has input an order to the store 20. When the store 20 concludes a usage contract with the store support system 500, whether the store 20 is a store of the type that guides the user 10 or a store of the type that delivers the ordered items is registered in advance in the store support mobile unit 100 or the control device. The guidance device 130 determines whether to guide the user 10 to the store 20 based on the pre-registered information. Alternatively, it may be configured such that the user 10 can select whether to request guidance or delivery. The guidance device 130 may output a display or voice such as "Shall I guide you to store 20?" and receive a response from the user 10 to determine whether to guide the user 10 to store 20.

[0050] When it is determined to guide the user 10 to store 20, in step S105, the guidance device 130 starts the guidance process.

[0051] <Guidance process> FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the guidance process among the operations of the store support system 500 according to the present embodiment.

[0052] In step S106, the guidance device 130 first recognizes the user 10. This is to prevent the user 10 from getting lost, for example, when the user 10 loses sight of the store support mobile body 100. In steps S107 and S108, the guidance device 130 determines whether the user 10 is within a predetermined range, and guides the user 10 to store 20 while the user 10 is within the range. When it is determined that the user 10 is not within the range, in step S109, the guidance device 130 notifies the user 10 of a warning. An example of the guidance process is as follows.

[0053] <<Example 1 of the guidance process>> The guidance device 130 uses the lidar 15 and the camera 16 provided in the store support mobile body 100 to recognize the user 10 and determine whether the user 10 is within a predetermined range, while guiding the user 10 to store 20.

[0054] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the personal recognition function in the guidance device 130 according to the present embodiment. The guidance device 130 can recognize the user 10 from information such as the user 10's face, clothing, belongings, movement characteristics, and skeleton by photographing the user 10 with the camera 16. The guidance device 130 may previously photograph the entire photo of the user 10 and register information that can identify the user. The left diagram in FIG. 10 shows an example of personal recognition by face recognition using a camera image or recognition of characteristics such as belongings. The right diagram in FIG. 10 shows an example of personal recognition by comparing the skeleton of the user 10 obtained from the camera image with the previously registered skeleton information. In addition, regarding the area where the specific user 10 recognized by personal recognition in the camera image exists (a monocular camera can know the angle of the area where a person exists), the distance to the area where the specific user 10 exists is measured by the lidar 15. Instead of the lidar 15, a stereo camera may be used to measure the distance to the area where a specific person exists. In this way, the guidance device 130 uses the camera 16 and the lidar 15 to confirm whether the user 10, who is the order placer, is always within a predetermined range of distance. When the user 10 cannot be confirmed or it is determined that the user 10 is not within the predetermined range, the guidance function by the store support mobile body 100 is interrupted, and a warning is notified to the user 10 via a mobile terminal device such as the user 10's smartphone.

[0055] <<Example 2 of guidance process>> The guidance device 130 may recognize the user 10 and determine whether the user 10 exists within the range by talking to the user 10 using the microphone 13 and the speaker 14 provided in the store support mobile body 100.

[0056] If the user 10 cannot be confirmed during the conversation with the user 10, the store support mobile body 100 notifies the user 10 of a warning. Also, when the user 10 wants to go to a place separate from the store 20, such as a toilet, the store support mobile body 100 may have a function to stop if the user 10 says "wait".

[0057] <<Example 3 of guidance process>> The guiding device 130 may guide the target user 10 to hold a string extending from the store support mobile body 100. It may have a function of stopping when the user 10 releases the string.

[0058] <<Example 4 of guiding process>> The guiding device 130 may cause the target user 10 to hold a beacon emitted from the store support mobile body 100. The guiding device 130 guides the user 10 while checking whether the user 10 is not separated from the store support mobile body 100 by transmitting and receiving a wireless signal with the beacon. According to Example 4 of the guiding process, the reliability of the recognition of the user 10 is increased. In addition, when the beacon cannot be confirmed or it is determined that the beacon is not within a predetermined range, a function of notifying the user 10 of a warning via the user 10's smartphone can be used for a key loss prevention device or the like.

[0059] <<Example 5 of guiding process>> The store support mobile body 100 may be configured as a PMV that autonomously travels with a person on board. The guiding device 130 notifies the target user 10 to board the store support mobile body 100, and when the user 10 boards the store support mobile body 100, it travels to the store 20.

[0060] As described above, in the guiding process, after the input of an order or a destination from the user 10 who is the target of guiding, the guiding function (guiding function) is started. For example, the store support mobile body 100 guides the target person while running parallel to or following in front of or behind the target person, by presenting signage information or voice guidance or the like. The store support mobile body 100 may emphasize the destination by superimposing a virtual display on a real image by signage display. For example, the store support mobile body 100 may superimpose a virtual display on a real image for the display of the target point, the traveling direction, the store guidance information, etc.

[0061] Note that after the guidance to the destination store 20 is completed, the store support mobile unit 100 may provide on-site guidance at the destination. The on-site guidance may include displaying useful information via the signage display 11, or performing services such as serving in the store 20. When performing services in the store 20, the store support mobile unit 100 may use its own delivery function or realize the services through coordinated operation with other delivery robots.

[0062] Note that the store support mobile unit 100 provides one-to-one guidance to the person to be guided (including groups), and the number of people to be guided may be restricted. Therefore, instead of providing guidance by its own device, the store support mobile unit 100 may transfer guidance information or guidance instructions to a mobile terminal device such as the user 10's smartphone and perform guidance in conjunction with the user 10's smartphone. In this case, other AMRs such as the greeting AMR may take over and handle the on-site guidance after arriving at the destination.

[0063] <Delivery process> FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the delivery process among the operations of the store support system 500 according to the present embodiment. Here, it is assumed that the store support mobile unit 100 is not performing order processing or guidance processing, but is performing the advertising process in step S10L That is, it is assumed that the store support mobile unit 100 is autonomously traveling and patrolling inside the facility while displaying an advertisement for the store 20 on the signage display 11.

[0064] In step S110, the delivery device 140 determines whether there is a call from the store 20. If there is no call, the store support mobile unit 100 continues the advertising process. Specifically, when the delivery device 140 receives a call request signal from the store terminal device 200 of the store 20, it determines that there is a call from the store 20.

[0065] If there is a call, in step S111, the delivery device 140 autonomously travels to the calling store 20. When store 20 calls the store support mobile unit 100 during the promotion process, it means that store 20 has received an order from user 10 and wants to deliver the ordered items to user 10. Therefore, the self-driving device 150 of the called store support mobile unit 100 will autonomously drive to store 20 that has received the order by the order device 120 of another store support mobile unit 100.

[0066] Note that the store support mobile unit 100 that has received the order and the called store support mobile unit 100 may be the same store support mobile unit 100. However, usually, the user 10 who wishes to receive the delivery is located at a position away from store 20, and it is assumed that the called store support mobile unit 100 is near store 20, so it is often another store support mobile unit 100.

[0067] Also, the call of the store support mobile unit 100 may be a mass transmission from the store terminal device 200 of store 20, or a call request may be sent from the store terminal device 200 of store 20 to the control device, and the control device may make the call. The control device calls the store support mobile unit 100 that is closest to store 20 and is in the promotion process.

[0068] When the store support mobile unit 100 arrives at the calling store 20, in step S204, store 20 loads the ordered items onto the store support mobile unit 100. In step S112, the delivery device 140 detects the completion of loading the ordered items. In step S113, the delivery device 140 controls the self-driving device 150 to deliver the ordered items to the user 10 who is the delivery destination. Alternatively, the delivery device 140 may notify the control device of the delivery destination, and the control device may control the self-driving device 150 to deliver to the delivery destination.

[0069] The store support mobile unit 100 according to the present embodiment may have a situation where the receiving user 10 moves. The ordering side puts the ordered items into the store support mobile unit 100 and sends them out, but the delivery destination becomes a problem. The store support mobile unit 100 according to this embodiment determines the delivery destination as follows.

[0070] <<Example 1 of delivery process>> The delivery device 140 determines the location specified by the user 10 at the time of ordering as the delivery destination. The delivery device 140 issues a password or the like at the time of ordering. When the store support mobile unit 100 arrives at the delivery destination, the user inputs the password to open the key and receive the ordered goods. Also, the user 10 may be able to specify the time and location of the delivery destination at the time of ordering.

[0071] <<Example 2 of delivery process>> When an order is input by the user 10 and the order is notified to the store 20, the store support mobile unit 100 that has received the order autonomously drives the self-driving device 150 to follow the user 10. The delivery device 140 of the store support mobile unit 100 that delivers the ordered goods determines the location of the store support mobile unit 100 that has received the order, which is another store support mobile unit, as the delivery destination, and autonomously drives the self-driving device 150 toward the delivery destination. The store support mobile unit 100 has a function of notifying its own location. When an order is placed by the user 10, the store support mobile unit 100 notifies its location to another store support mobile unit 100 or the control device while moving following the user 10 until the ordered goods are delivered.

[0072] <<Example 3 of delivery process>> When an order is input by the user 10 and the order is notified to the store 20, the store support mobile unit 100 that has received the order may distribute a beacon to the user 10. The delivery device 140 of the store support mobile unit 100 that delivers the ordered goods determines the location of the beacon as the delivery destination, and autonomously drives the self-driving device toward the location of the user 10, which is the delivery destination. This beacon is preferably a keyed beacon. When the user 10 returns the keyed beacon to the store support mobile unit 100, the key opens and the user can receive the ordered goods.

[0073] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing Example 3 of the delivery process according to the present embodiment. In the schematic diagram of FIG. 12, Example 3 of the delivery process is performed as follows (1) to (6). (1) User 10 places an order from the store support mobile body 100. (2) A beacon is handed to User 10. User 10 is mobile. (3) The order is notified to store 20. (4) At store 20, the ordered items are loaded onto the store support mobile body 100 for delivery. (5) The store support mobile body 100 for delivery autonomously travels to the delivery destination. (6) User 10 receives the ordered items in exchange for the beacon.

[0074] In FIG. 12, as the store support mobile body 100 for delivery, a different type of signage-type AMR from the store support mobile body 100 that received the order is illustrated. As long as it is a store support mobile body 100 having the same function, signage-type AMRs with different shapes may be included in the store support system 500. Alternatively, they may all be the same type of signage-type AMR.

[0075] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the outline of the operation of the store support system 500 according to the present embodiment. In an example of the outline of the operation of the store support system 500 in FIG. 13, operations as follows (a) to (f) are performed. (a) The store support mobile body 100, which is a signage-type AMR moving within the facility, receives the order from User 10. (b) The store support mobile body 100 sends the order to store 20. (c-1) When store 20 is an order for restaurant food, the store support mobile body 100 guides User 10 to store 20. At store 20, the food is prepared so that it can respond to User 10 without waiting time when User 10 arrives at store 20. (c-2) In the case of an order for a product, a call request signal is sent from store 20 to the signage-type AMR closest to store 20. (d) Store 20 loads the ordered items onto the called store support mobile unit 100 and gives instructions for delivery to the delivery destination where the user 10 is located. (e) The store support mobile unit 100 tracks the location of the user 10 based on information such as a transmitter or smartphone that the user 10 has and delivers the goods to the user 10. (6) When the store support mobile unit 100 arrives at the location of the user 10, the user 10 receives the ordered items by entering a password known only to the user 10 or through face authentication, etc.

[0076] ***Other configurations*** <Modification Example 1> FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of delivery processing according to Modification Example 1 of the present embodiment. Here, a modification example of delivery processing using a beacon will be described. · At a hotel or the like, leave the luggage temporarily and receive a beacon. When approaching your car (your room) and pressing the beacon, the delivery AMR will bring the luggage for you. · At a golf course or the like, when pressing the beacon, the delivery AMR will bring your golf bag for you. · At a theme park or the like, when ordering food at a store and receiving a beacon, and when moving to a favorite place, the delivery AMR will bring it there for you. · Also, if the beacon is provided with a selection function to select "what", it can also be used as an ordering device.

[0077] <Modification Example 2> FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of delivery processing according to Modification Example 2 of the present embodiment. The delivery AMR may be a delivery-type vending machine that is initially loaded with items like a vending machine. The user can call the delivery-type vending machine with a smartphone or the like. Alternatively, when requesting "want beer" with a smartphone or the like, the delivery-type vending machine arrives there and the user can make a purchase on the spot. In FIG. 15, a large vending machine is installed, but for use in in-vehicle sales or the like, a small vending machine is preferable.

[0078] <Modification Example 3> FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the shape of the store support mobile body according to Modification Example 3 of the present embodiment. The functions of the store support mobile body 100 according to the present embodiment are applicable to AMRs having various shapes as shown in FIG. 16.

[0079] <Modification Example 4> In the present embodiment, the functions of each device of the store support system 500 are realized by software. As Modification Example 2, the functions of each device of the store support system 500 may be realized by hardware.

[0080] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the store support mobile body 100 according to Modification Example 4 of the present embodiment. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the store terminal device 200 according to Modification Example 4 of the present embodiment. Hereinafter, the store terminal device 200 will be described as an example. Specifically, the store terminal device 200 includes an electronic circuit 909 instead of the processor 910.

[0081] The electronic circuit 909 is a dedicated electronic circuit that realizes the functions of the store terminal device 200. Specifically, the electronic circuit 909 is a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, a parallel-programmed processor, a logic IC, a GA, an ASIC, or an FPGA. GA is an abbreviation for Gate Array. ASIC is an abbreviation for Application Specific Integrated Circuit. FPGA is an abbreviation for Field-Programmable Gate Array.

[0082] The functions of the store terminal device 200 may be realized by one electronic circuit or may be distributed and realized by a plurality of electronic circuits.

[0083] As another modification, some functions of the store terminal device 200 may be realized by an electronic circuit, and the remaining functions may be realized by software. Further, some or all of the functions of the store terminal device 200 may be realized by firmware.

[0084] Each of the processor and the electronic circuit is also called a processing circuit. That is, the functions of each device of the store support system 500 are realized by the processing circuit.

[0085] ***Explanation of the effects of the present embodiment*** As described above, according to the store support system 500 according to the present embodiment, a user can "order" a dish at a restaurant with a store support mobile body that is a signage type AMR, and be "guided" to the store, and can eat the dish without waiting time when arriving at the store. Further, in the case of product ordering at a clothing store or the like, the user "orders" with the store support mobile body, and the corresponding store loads the product on another store support mobile body and "delivers" it to the user's location. Therefore, according to the store support system 500 according to the present embodiment, since it is possible to easily place an order from a signage type AMR, it is possible to connect until the completion of the purchase without staying at the level of publicity. It is expected to bring benefits to both the facility side and the visitor side, such as guiding customers to the store by guidance, improving visitor satisfaction by shortening waiting time, and increasing store revenue by expanding turnover.

[0086] According to the store support system 500 according to the present embodiment, as described above, by enabling the services of easy "ordering", "guiding", and "delivering" by signage, the following effects are expected.

[0087] When it is necessary to go to a store such as a restaurant, there are the following effects. For the user, there are the following effects. · An order can be placed before entering the store. · If the location of the store is unknown, it will provide directions. · When arriving at the store, the dish is ready and service can be received without waiting time. For the store side, there are the following effects. · It not only serves as publicity but also leads to increased sales. · The turnover rate of the store increases, leading to increased sales. · It leads to customer satisfaction and the expectation of repeat visits.

[0088] When there is no need to visit the store for product orders, etc., there are the following effects. For users, there are the following effects. · They can receive the desired products without having to visit the store. For the store side, there are the following effects. · It not only serves as publicity but also leads to increased sales. · Labor costs for "delivery" can be reduced. · It leads to customer satisfaction and the expectation of repeat visits.

[0089] In the above Embodiment 1, each part of each device of the store support system 500 has been described as an independent functional block. However, the configuration of each device of the store support system 500 does not have to be the configuration as in the above-described embodiment. The functional blocks of each device of the store support system 500 may have any configuration as long as they can realize the functions described in the above-described embodiment. Also, in Embodiment 1, a plurality of parts may be combined and implemented. Alternatively, one part of this embodiment may be implemented. Additionally, this embodiment may be implemented in any combination, either as a whole or partially. That is, in Embodiment 1, free combinations of each embodiment, or modifications of any constituent elements of each embodiment, or omissions of any constituent elements in each embodiment are possible.

[0090] Note that the above-described embodiment is essentially a preferred exemplification and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, the scope of applications of the present disclosure, and the scope of uses of the present disclosure. The above-described embodiment can be variously modified as needed.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0091] 10 User, 11 Signage display, 12 Touch panel, 13 Microphone, 14 Speaker, 15 Rider, 16 Camera, 17 Vehicle unit, 20 Store, 21 Order reception screen, 100 Store support mobile unit, 110 Advertising device, 120 Order device, 130 Guidance device, 140 Delivery device, 150 Self-driving device, 200 Store terminal device, 210 Order reception section, 220 Store processing section, 230 Storage section, 500 Store support system, 909 Electronic circuit, 910 Processor, 921 Memory, 922 Auxiliary storage device, 930 Input interface, 940 Output interface, 950 Communication device.

Claims

1. In a store support mobile body that communicates with a store terminal device used in a store, a self-driving device that performs autonomous driving, a signage display for displaying advertisements, and a promotional device provided on the side with respect to the traveling direction, A store support mobile body comprising.

2. The self-driving device is capable of changing the traveling direction and rotating the store support mobile body, and when arriving at the position of the user of the store support mobile body, rotates the store support mobile body so that the signage display faces the user. The store support mobile body according to Claim 1.

3. The store support mobile body is provided with auxiliary wheels at the front and rear in the traveling direction, and main wheels are provided between the front and rear auxiliary wheels, The self-driving device rotates the direction of the store support mobile body by turning the front and rear auxiliary wheels in opposite directions to each other. The store support mobile body according to Claim 1.

4. The store support mobile body is provided with an order device that uses the signage display to allow a user to input an order to the store and notifies the store terminal device of the order. The store support mobile body according to any one of Claims 1 to 3.

5. The signage display is a touch panel, The order device acquires the order by allowing the user to input the order via the signage display, and notifies the store terminal device of the order by transmitting the order to the store terminal device. The store support mobile body according to Claim 4.

6. The order device acquires the order by allowing the user to input the order via a microphone provided in the store support mobile body, and notifies the store terminal device of the order by transmitting the order to the store terminal device. The store support mobile body according to Claim 4.

7. The order device uses a microphone and a speaker provided in the store support mobile body to allow the user to communicate with the store, thereby inputting the order and notifying the store terminal device of the order. The store support mobile body according to Claim 4.

8. The self-driving device autonomously drives to a store that has received an order by the order device of another store support mobile body, The store support mobile body receives the ordered goods from the store and is provided with a delivery device that controls the self-driving device to deliver the goods to the user who placed the order by the order device of the other store support mobile body. The store support mobile body according to any one of Claims 1 to 3.

9. The store support mobile body according to claim 1, further comprising an order device that, when the self-propelled device approaches a user, causes the user approaching the self-propelled device to input an order to the store using the signage display.

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