System, control method, and computer program

Abstract

To provide a system, a control apparatus, a control method, and a computer program which reduce labor required for change of article display.SOLUTION: A system includes a display panel (30) and a control apparatus. The display panel (30) is provided at a shelf (20) of display furniture. The control apparatus controls a display content of the display panel (30), and displays a display content on a display region (310) of the display panel (30) by switching between a display content for a clerk and a display content for a customer. The display content for the customer includes one or more price information, for example. The display content for the clerk includes change information indicating change of arrangement of an article (210) at a shelf, for example.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a system, a control device, a control method, and a computer program. [Background technology]

[0002] The electronic shelf label can change the displayed content by sending and receiving data to and from the server.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes an electronic shelf label that is provided for each type of product displayed on a display shelf. In the technology of Patent Document 1, a different shelf label control number is assigned to each electronic shelf label. Then, the product is identified by the shelf label control number, and the inventory status of that product is displayed on a display. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-177744 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, changing the display of products was time-consuming with the technology in Patent Document 1. For example, in Patent Document 1, an electronic shelf tag was provided for each product type, so store clerks had to move or replace the electronic shelf tag according to the display position of each product.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a technique that reduces the effort required when changing the display of products. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The system of the present invention comprises: A display panel installed on a shelf; a control device for controlling the display content of the display panel, The control device switches between display content for store clerks and display content for customers and displays the switched content on the display panel.

[0008] The control device of the present invention comprises: A control device that controls the display content of a display panel installed on a shelf, The display panel switches between display contents for store clerks and display contents for customers.

[0009] The program of the present invention is A computer program for realizing a control device that controls display content of a display panel installed on a shelf, The computer functions as the control device that switches between display content for store clerks and display content for customers and displays the same on the display panel.

[0010] The control method of the present invention comprises: A control method for controlling display content of a display panel installed on a shelf, comprising: The computer switches between the display contents for the store clerk and the display contents for the customer and displays them on the display panel. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, the effort required to change the display of products can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] The above-mentioned objects, as well as other objects, features and advantages, will become more apparent from the preferred embodiments described below and the accompanying drawings.

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 2A to 2C are diagrams illustrating examples of the use environment and display contents of the display panel according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a display fixture having multiple shelves. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a display fixture having multiple shelves. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of product information according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of display data according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] 8 is a diagram showing the arrangement of products based on the product information in FIG. 6 and the display data in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a legend for displaying each product in FIG. 8. [Figure 10] 8 is a diagram illustrating a display panel on which price tag information is displayed based on the product information in FIG. 6 and the display data in FIG. 7. FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a computer for realizing a control device. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a control device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of display data generated in the first processing example. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen when a face is reduced. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of display data corresponding to the product arrangement in FIG. 14. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen when enlarging a face. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of display data corresponding to the product arrangement in FIG. 16. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen when deleting a product. [Figure 19] FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of display data corresponding to the product arrangement in FIG. 18. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen when inserting a product. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of display data corresponding to the product arrangement in FIG. 20. [Figure 22]FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 23] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating examples of display screens of a store clerk terminal for switching the display content of a display panel. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of second display data. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a diagram showing the arrangement of products based on the display data of FIG. 24. [Figure 26] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process performed by a display data generating means for displaying display content for store clerks on a display panel. [Figure 27] 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display panel on which change information indicating that the product is to be removed is displayed. FIG. [Figure 28] 10 is a display screen of a store clerk terminal for transmitting switching information to a control device. [Figure 29] 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display panel on which change information indicating that the face of the product is to be reduced is displayed. FIG. [Figure 30] 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display panel on which change information indicating that the face of the product is to be reduced is displayed. FIG. [Figure 31] 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display panel on which change information indicating that a product is to be moved within the same shelf is displayed. FIG. [Figure 32] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display panel on which change information indicating that a product is to be moved to a different shelf is displayed. [Figure 33] 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display panel on which change information indicating that the face of the product is to be enlarged is displayed. FIG. [Figure 34] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display panel on which change information indicating that a product will be introduced is displayed. [Figure 35] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the content displayed to customers after the display has been changed. [Figure 36] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 37] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating examples of the use environment and display contents of a display panel according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 38]FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display panel on which a warning is displayed. [Figure 39] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of a store clerk terminal for managing display expiration dates. [Figure 40] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display panel on which a message prompting a user to remove a product is displayed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In all the drawings, like components are designated by like reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0015] (First embodiment) FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a system 10 according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the usage environment and display content of a display panel 30 according to the first embodiment. The system 10 according to this embodiment includes a display panel 30 and a control device 40. The display panel 30 is installed on a shelf 20. The control device 40 controls the display content of the display panel 30. The control device 40 then determines a display area 310 for each piece of price tag information on the display panel 30 using display data of the shelf 20. This will be explained in detail below.

[0016] The shelves 20 are installed in stores such as supermarkets and convenience stores. In stores, the products 210 are placed on the shelves 20 so that the products 210 are displayed to customers. For example, when viewed from the front of the shelf 20, the same products are lined up from the front to the back. However, when viewed from the front of the shelf 20, the same products may be stacked vertically, or the products 210 may be displayed in other ways. The display panel 30 is a display such as a liquid crystal, organic electroluminescence (EL), or electronic paper, and displays the price tag information of the product 210 at least temporarily. Customers can then check this price tag information and purchase the product 210.

[0017] The shelf 20 may be part of a display fixture. Examples of the display fixture include a cart and a rack. The display fixture may include a plurality of shelves 20. In this case, the display panel 30 may be installed on each of all the shelves 20 of the display fixture, or on only some of the shelves 20. The shelf 20 is not limited to being installed on the display fixture. The shelf 20 may be built into a wall, for example.

[0018] 3 and 4 are diagrams illustrating a display fixture 220 comprising a plurality of shelves 20. FIG. 3 shows the display fixture 220 as viewed from the front, and FIG. 4 shows the display fixture 220 as viewed from the side. Products can be displayed using such a display fixture 220. In the example shown in the figures, the display fixture 220 comprises a back panel 221 and a plurality of shelves 20. As shown in FIG. 4, an end of each shelf 20 is connected to the back panel 221. A display panel 30 is attached to the end of each shelf 20 opposite the back panel 221. A display surface 301 of the display panel 30 faces away from the back panel 221.

[0019] When viewed from the display surface 301 side, the display panel 30 has, for example, a rectangular shape. The length w1 of the long side of the display panel 30 is, for example, at least twice the length w2 of the short side of the display panel 30, and preferably at least five times the length. In the example shown in the figure, the display panel 30 is attached to the shelf 20 so that its long side is parallel to the product placement surface 201 of the shelf 20. It is preferable to install one display panel 30 per shelf 20. This allows the display area 310 for each product to be set more freely over a wide area of ​​the shelf 20. When one display panel 30 is installed per shelf 20, the length w1 of the long side of the display panel 30 is set to be equal to or greater than the horizontal width w2 of the shelf 20 when viewed from the front. s It is preferably 0.5 times or more, and more preferably 0.8 times or more. s For a shelf 20 with a width of 90 cm, a display panel 30 with a w1 of approximately 90 cm (for example, 85 cm to 95 cm) is installed. However, multiple display panels 30 may be installed on one shelf 20. For example, sFor a shelf 20 with a width of 90 cm, two display panels 30 with a w1 of approximately 45 cm (for example, 40 cm to 50 cm) may be placed side by side, or three display panels 30 with a w1 of approximately 30 cm (for example, 25 cm to 35 cm) may be placed side by side.

[0020] In this embodiment, the display surface 301 is displayed so as to have multiple display areas 310, so that one display panel 30 functions as multiple shelf tags. Therefore, the number of display panels 30 used can be reduced relative to the number of types of products. This in turn makes it easier to install the display panels 30. Furthermore, the reduced number of display panels 30 also makes maintenance of the display panels 30 easier. The display panel 30 may be powered by a power source other than a battery, such as a regular power source. In this case, the effort required for battery replacement is eliminated. However, the display panel 30 may also be battery-powered. For example, if the display panel 30 uses electronic paper, a drive time of more than a month can be ensured, reducing the frequency of battery replacement.

[0021] A store has a plurality of display fixtures 220. Each display panel 30 is associated with display fixture identification information that identifies the display fixture 220 to which the display panel 30 is attached, and shelf identification information that identifies the shelf 20. For example, the shelves 20 included in the display fixture 220 can be numbered in order from top to bottom, and the numbers can be used as the shelf identification information for each shelf 20.

[0022] As described above, the control device 40 determines the display areas 310 for the price tag information on the display panel 30 using the display data of the shelves 20. The display surface 301 of the display panel 30 can be provided with a display area 310 for each type of product, i.e., for each product code described below.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 2 , a display area 310 for a product 210 is provided on the display panel 30 at a position corresponding to the position of the product 210 displayed on the shelf 20 on which the display panel 30 is installed. Price tag information is displayed in each display area 310. The display panel 30 also provides the display area 310 for the product 210 with a width corresponding to the display width of the product 210. In this way, the price tag information for the multiple products 210 displayed on the shelf 20 is displayed on the display panel 30 at an easily viewable position and width. Note that the display width of the product 210 and the width of the display area 310 refer to the width in a direction parallel to the product placement surface 201 as viewed from the front of the shelf 20. The position of the product 210 and the position of the display area 310 refer to the position in a direction parallel to the product placement surface 201 as viewed from the front of the shelf 20.

[0024] In the example of Fig. 2, a frame defining the display area 310 for each price tag information is displayed on the display surface 301. This makes it easier for customers looking at the display panel 30 to understand the correspondence between the products 210 displayed on the shelf 20 and the price tag information.

[0025] On the shelf 20, the same product 210 may be displayed in multiple rows. The number of rows is called the number of faces of the product 210. For example, the width of the display area 310 on the display panel 30 is determined based on the number of faces of the product 210. Specifically, the width of the display area 310 is determined based on the product of the width of the product 210 and the number of faces. In the example of FIG. 2, the display area 310a is the display area 310 for a product with one face, and the display area 310b is the display area 310 for the product 210a with two faces.

[0026] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the control device 40 according to the first embodiment. The control device 40 includes an acquisition unit 410, a display data generation unit 450, and a transmission unit 470. The acquisition unit 410 acquires display data and product information. The display data generation unit 450 generates display data for one or more display panels 30 based on the display data and product information. The transmission unit 470 then transmits the display data to each display panel 30. The control device 40 can control the display content of the multiple display panels 30. Each functional component will be described in detail below.

[0027] The acquisition means 410 acquires display data and product information for the shelves 20. The acquisition means 410 can acquire this data and information from outside the control device 40. However, the acquisition means 410 may also acquire pre-prepared display data and product information by reading from a storage means (for example, the storage device 1080 described below) provided inside or outside the control device 40. The display data indicates the arrangement of products on at least one shelf 20. The display data may be configured for each display fixture 220. The product information includes information indicating at least the product names and prices of the products arranged on the shelves 20. Each product is assigned a product code. On the shelves 20, products with the same product code are arranged in the same row. Both the display data and the product information include product codes, making it possible to associate products between the display data and the product information.

[0028] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of product information according to the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the product information includes, for each of a plurality of products, a product code, a product category, a product name, a product size, and a price. The product size includes the width, height, and depth of the product. Note that, in this embodiment, the product information does not necessarily include at least one of the product category, the product height, and the product depth.

[0029] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of display data according to the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the display data includes, for each of a plurality of products, information indicating the display position and a product code. In the example shown in this figure, the information indicating the display position includes the display start position ("display position (from)" in this figure) and the display end position ("display position (to)" in this figure). The display start position and the display end position are each represented by shelf identification information and a row number. Specifically, in the example shown in this figure, each position is represented in the form of "shelf identification information-row number." For example, the row number can be the number obtained by numbering the shelves sequentially from the left end. The display data in this figure includes display information for a shelf 20 with shelf identification information "1" and a shelf 20 with shelf identification information "2." In the example shown in this figure, "1-1" refers to the leftmost row on the top shelf. In addition, in the example shown in this figure, it can be seen that the number of faces of a product whose display start position is "1-1" and whose display end position is "1-2" is two. On the other hand, the number of faces for a product whose display start position and display end position are the same is 1. In other words, the relationship "number of faces" = "row number of display end position" - "row number of display start position" + 1 holds. Display fixture identification information is associated with each display data.

[0030] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the arrangement of products based on the product information in FIG. 6 and the display data in FIG. 7. In FIG. 8, the information for each product is surrounded by a thick line. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a legend for the display of each product in FIG. 8. The legend in FIG. 9 also applies to the following figures showing the arrangement of products. The width and position of the display area for each product in FIG. 8 reflect the display width and position of the product, respectively. In this example, the products are aligned to the left on each shelf 20, and any remaining space is left as a gap at the right end of the shelf 20. However, the way in which the gap is provided is not limited to this example. For example, the left end may be left as a gap, or gaps may be provided on both the left and right ends so that the products are closer to the center. Gaps may also be provided between products. FIG. 8 shows the arrangement of products on a shelf 20 (upper level) with shelf identification information "1" and a shelf 20 (lower level) with shelf identification information "2."

[0031] The display data generation means 450 determines the position and width of the display area 310 on the display panel 30 based on the product information and display data. Specifically, the display data generation means 450 derives the number of faces of the product as described above. The display data generation means 450 also references the product code and extracts the width of the product from the product information. The display data generation means 450 then calculates the product of the number of faces and the width of the product. The display data generation means 450 then determines the width of the display area 310 for that product based on this product. Here, the calculated product may be used as the width of the display area 310 directly, or the product may be further multiplied or added with an adjustment parameter to determine the width of the display area 310. In this manner, the width of the display area 310 for each product is determined.

[0032] In addition, the display data generation means 450 determines the display panel 30 on which to display the price tag information of each product, based on the shelf identification information in the display data. The display data generation means 450 also determines the order in which to display the price tag information of multiple products on each display panel 30, based on the column numbers in the display data. The display data generation means 450 then generates display data to provide multiple display areas 310 in the determined order and width on each display panel 30. The price tag information displayed in the display areas 310 includes, for example, the product name and price based on the product information. Each piece of display data is associated with display fixture identification information and shelf identification information.

[0033] The transmitting means 470 transmits the generated display data to the display panel 30. Each piece of display data is received by the display panel 30 on which it is to be displayed, based on the display fixture identification information and shelf identification information associated with that display data. Then, the display content based on the received display data is displayed on the display panel 30.

[0034] FIG. 10 illustrates a display panel 30 displaying price tag information based on the product information in FIG. 6 and the display data in FIG. 7. In this figure, display panel 30a represents a display panel 30 installed on the top shelf 20 (shelf identification information "1"), and display panel 30b represents a display panel 30 installed on the second-highest shelf 20 (shelf identification information "2") in the same display fixture 220. Each display area 310 displays the price tag information of the product displayed in the corresponding position on the shelf 20, specifically, immediately above each display area 310. The display area 310 may also display comments such as "Discounted," "New Item," or "Recommended." The display area 310 may also display a photo or description of the product. While FIG. 10 illustrates an example in which the display area 310 on display panel 30a is left-justified, the display area 310 on display panel 30 may also be centered. The same applies to FIGS. 27, 29 to 35, 38, and 40, which will be described later.

[0035] In this way, the display area 310 is determined based on the display data and product information, and price tag information is displayed. Therefore, there is no need to replace price tags every time the display or price is changed. This reduces the labor required by store staff and eliminates the risk of incorrectly attaching or writing on price tags. Furthermore, the display area 310 can be freely set across the display surface 301 of the display panel 30. Therefore, compared to when price tag information is displayed on multiple displays, product display flexibility is increased and the product looks better.

[0036] When displaying products on an empty shelf 20, the store clerk can refer to the price tag information displayed on the display panel 30. This allows the products to be displayed efficiently and accurately regardless of the store clerk's level of skill.

[0037] The hardware configuration of the control device 40 will be described below. Each functional component of the control device 40 may be realized by hardware that realizes the functional component (e.g., a hardwired electronic circuit, etc.), or may be realized by a combination of hardware and software (e.g., a combination of an electronic circuit and a program that controls it). Below, a further description will be given of the case where each functional component of the control device 40 is realized by a combination of hardware and software.

[0038] 11 is a diagram illustrating a computer 1000 for realizing the control device 40. The computer 1000 is any computer. For example, the computer 1000 is an SoC (System On Chip), a Personal Computer (PC), a server machine, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, or the like. The computer 1000 may be a dedicated computer designed to realize the control device 40, or may be a general-purpose computer.

[0039] The computer 1000 includes a bus 1020, a processor 1040, a memory 1060, a storage device 1080, an input / output interface 1100, and a network interface 1120. The bus 1020 is a data transmission path through which the processor 1040, the memory 1060, the storage device 1080, the input / output interface 1100, and the network interface 1120 transmit and receive data to and from each other. However, the method of interconnecting the processor 1040 and other components is not limited to bus connection. The processor 1040 may be any of various processors, such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). The memory 1060 is a main storage device implemented using a random access memory (RAM) or the like. The storage device 1080 is an auxiliary storage device implemented using a hard disk, a solid state drive (SSD), a memory card, a read-only memory (ROM), or the like.

[0040] The input / output interface 1100 is an interface for connecting the computer 1000 to an input / output device. For example, the input / output interface 1100 is connected to an input device 1200 such as a mouse or keyboard, and an output device 1210 such as a display device.

[0041] The network interface 1120 is an interface for connecting the computer 1000 to a network. This communication network is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network). The network interface 1120 may be connected to the network wirelessly or by wire.

[0042] The storage device 1080 stores program modules that realize each functional component of the control device 40. The processor 1040 reads each of these program modules into the memory 1060 and executes them to realize the function corresponding to each program module.

[0043] In this embodiment, the display panel 30 is connected to the computer 1000 via an input / output interface 1100 or a network interface 1120 .

[0044] Next, the operation and effect of this embodiment will be described. According to the system 10 and control device 40 of this embodiment, the display area 310 for information about each product on the display panel 30 is determined based on the display data. This eliminates the need to replace or move shelf labels, reducing the effort required when rearranging product displays. Furthermore, because the size of the display area 310 can be changed depending on the number of faces, product information can be more effectively presented to customers.

[0045] (Second embodiment) 12 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a control device 40 according to the second embodiment. The system 10 and the control device 40 according to this embodiment are the same as the system 10 and the control device 40 according to the first embodiment, except that the control device 40 includes a display data generation means 420. This will be explained in detail below.

[0046] The control device 40 according to this embodiment can be realized by a computer 1000 as shown in Fig. 11. The storage device 1080 of the computer 1000 further stores a program module that realizes the display data generation means 420. The processor 1040 reads this program module into the memory 1060 and executes it to further realize the functions of the display data generation means 420.

[0047] The display data generation means 420 generates display data. Examples of methods by which the display data generation means 420 generates display data include the following first to third processing examples. The first processing example is a method in which a user manually determines the arrangement of products based on product information. The second processing example is a method in which display data is generated based on the arrangement of displayed products. The third processing example is a method in which changes are made to the original display data to generate new display data. The user may be, for example, a store clerk.

[0048] In the first processing example, a product list as shown in FIG. 6 is displayed on a display connected to the computer 1000 as the output device 1210. Also, an image of the display on the display fixture 220 as shown in FIG. 8 is displayed on the display. Then, the user of the control device 40 uses the input device 1200 connected to the computer 1000 to select products to be registered in the display data from the product list. The user further registers the products in the display data by specifying the position in the display image where the selected products should be placed. At this time, the user can also set the number of faces for the products. When all the products to be displayed have been registered, the user performs a confirmation operation. By doing so, display data is generated based on the display contents of the image displayed on the display.

[0049] In this example, the acquisition means 410 acquires product information in the same manner as in the first embodiment. The acquisition means 410 also accepts the above-mentioned inputs from the user via the input device 1200. Then, the display data generation means 420 generates display data based on the input contents and the product information.

[0050] 13 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of display data generated in the first processing example. In the example shown in this figure, the display data includes, for each of a plurality of products, information indicating the display position, product code, number of faces, start position, and end position. The display data generation means 420 can generate such display data based on the product code, display position, and number of faces input from the user, and the product width extracted from the product information using the product code.

[0051] In the second processing example, a reading means such as a barcode reader is connected to the computer 1000 as the input device 1200. Products are displayed on the shelves 20 in advance. For example, the user reads the barcodes of the products on each shelf 20 in order from left to right. Here, products arranged in two faces are read twice. The user also performs the same operation on multiple shelves 20 in order.

[0052] In this example, the acquisition means 410 acquires product information in the same way as in the first embodiment. The acquisition means 410 also acquires the barcode reading results from the input device 1200. The reading results include information indicating the product code. The display data generation means 420 searches the product information for the product code indicated in the reading results and acquires the product name, price, and product width of that product. The display data generation means 420 then generates display data based on the acquired product name, price, and product width and the number of faces based on the barcode reading results. In this example, as in the first processing example, display data such as that shown in FIG. 13 can be generated.

[0053] In the third processing example, for example, an image of display on display fixture 220 as shown in Fig. 8 is displayed on a display connected to computer 1000 as output device 1210. Then, the user uses input device 1200 to perform operations on the displayed image, such as reducing the number of faces (i.e., reducing the number of faces), enlarging the faces (i.e., increasing the number of faces), deleting products, and inserting products, to create new display data.

[0054] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen when reducing the face. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of display data corresponding to the product arrangement of FIG. 14. In this example, an image of the original display data, such as that shown in FIG. 8, is first displayed on a display connected to the computer 1000 as the output device 1210. The user then uses the input device 1200 connected to the computer 1000 to select the product whose face they wish to reduce on the screen and perform an operation to reduce the face. FIG. 14 shows the state in which the number of faces for "XX Chips Consomme Flavor" has been changed from 2 to 1, in comparison with the example of FIG. 8.

[0055] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen when enlarging a face. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of display data corresponding to the product arrangement of FIG. 16. In this example, an image of the original display data, such as that shown in FIG. 8, is first displayed on a display connected to the computer 1000 as an output device 1210. The user then uses the input device 1200 connected to the computer 1000 to select the product whose face they wish to enlarge on the screen and perform an operation to enlarge the face. FIG. 16 shows the state in which the number of faces of "XX Chips Garlic Flavor" has been changed from 1 to 2, in comparison with the example of FIG. 8.

[0056] However, in this case, due to the enlargement of the face, the product at the right end of the upper shelf 20 will no longer fit on the display fixture 220. Therefore, the display data generation means 420 may warn the user by, for example, changing the display color of the product that will no longer fit on the shelf 20. Upon seeing such a warning, the user can further change the product's position or number of faces. Specifically, size information of the shelf 20 is stored in advance in storage means 440 accessible from the display data generation means 420. Note that the storage means 440 may be provided in the control device 40 or external to the control device 40. The display data generation means 420 reads the size information from the storage means 440 and determines whether the product will fit on the shelf 20 according to the user's input. In other words, it determines whether the sum of the widths of all products registered for display on the shelf 20 is equal to or less than the width of the shelf 20. If it is determined that the product does not fit on the shelf 20, the display data generation means 420 changes the display so that the problematic product can be distinguished from other products on the display. Note that the determination based on the size information of the shelf 20 is not limited to the width. For example, the size information may include the height of items that can be displayed on the shelf 20, and the determination based on the size information may include determining whether the height of the product is equal to or less than the height of items that can be displayed on the shelf 20.

[0057] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen when deleting a product. FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of display data corresponding to the product arrangement in FIG. 18. In this example, a display connected to the computer 1000 as the output device 1210 first displays a schematic diagram of the original display data, such as that shown in FIG. 8. The user then uses the input device 1200 connected to the computer 1000 to select the product they wish to delete from the display data on the screen and perform the deletion operation. FIG. 18 shows the state after "XX Chips Consomme Flavor" has been deleted from the example in FIG. 8.

[0058] FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen when inserting a product. FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of display data corresponding to the product arrangement of FIG. 20. In this example, a display connected to the computer 1000 as the output device 1210 displays a schematic diagram of the original display data, such as that shown in FIG. 18. The display also displays a list of products that can be added based on the product information. The user then uses the input device 1200 connected to the computer 1000 to select the product they want to add to the display data on the screen and perform the insertion operation. FIG. 20 shows the state in which "XX Shrimp Crackers Mayonnaise Flavor" has been added to the example of FIG. 18.

[0059] After changing the display by shrinking or enlarging the face, deleting products, or inserting products as described above, the user then confirms the display, which generates display data that indicates the display status displayed on the display.

[0060] The display data generating means 450 according to this embodiment can use the display data generated by the display data generating means 420 to generate display data for the display panel 30, as in the first embodiment, and display the data on the display panel 30. The display data generated by the display data generating means 420 may also be temporarily stored in the storage means 440.

[0061] Furthermore, the display data generating means 450 can change the display area 310 and price tag information based on the display data. For example, if the display data generating means 420 generates new display data when price tag information is already being displayed based on the display data, the display data generating means 450 generates new display data based on the display data. Then, based on the user's display switching operation, the transmitting means 470 transmits the new display data to the display panel 30. As a result, the display panel 30 displays information based on the new display data.

[0062] Next, the operation and effect of this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the same operation and effect as in the first embodiment can be obtained. In addition, the display data can be easily created and changed in the control device 40.

[0063] (Third embodiment) 22 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a system 10 according to a third embodiment. The system 10 according to this embodiment is the same as the system 10 according to at least one of the first and second embodiments, except for the points described below. Furthermore, the control device 40 according to this embodiment is the same as the control device 40 according to at least one of the first and second embodiments, except for the points described below.

[0064] In this embodiment, the control device 40 switches between display content for store clerks and display content for customers and displays them on the display panel 30. The display content for customers includes one or more price tag information. The display content for customers is as described in the first and second embodiments, and can be shown, for example, in FIG. 2 or FIG. 10.

[0065] In this embodiment, the control device 40 changes the display content of the display panel 30 from the display content intended for store clerks to the display content intended for customers, or vice versa. The display content of the display panel 30 changes based on the control of the control device 40. Here, the display content intended for store clerks and the display content intended for customers may have at least a portion in common. That is, the control device 40 may change only a portion of the display content of the display panel 30. In other words, the control device 40 may replace at least a portion of the display content of the display panel 30 from the display content intended for store clerks to the display content intended for customers, or replace the display content intended for customers to the display content intended for store clerks. Furthermore, the control device 40 may switch only a portion of the display area 310 of the display panel 30 from the display content intended for store clerks to the display content intended for customers, or from the display content intended for customers to the display content intended for store clerks. In addition, the control device 40 may switch the display content of the display panel 30 to other content, such as a sleep mode.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 22, the system 10 according to the third embodiment further includes a clerk terminal 50. The control device 40 switches between display content for clerks and display content for customers based on input to the clerk terminal 50. The hardware for implementing the clerk terminal 50 is exemplified by a computer 1000 as shown in FIG. 11, similar to the control device 40. However, the computer 1000 for implementing the clerk terminal 50 may be provided separately from the computer 1000 for implementing the control device 40. The clerk terminal 50 is, for example, a mobile terminal such as a smartphone. The mobile terminal includes, for example, a touch panel that doubles as an input device 1200 and a display as an output device 1210. The clerk terminal 50 and the control device 40 can communicate with each other via, for example, at least one of a network interface 1120 and an input / output interface 1100.

[0067] The display content for the store clerk includes information to assist the store clerk in his / her work. In this embodiment, the display content for the store clerk includes change information indicating a change in the arrangement of products on the shelf 20. The change information is, for example, information indicating the work that the store clerk should do to change the product display. Furthermore, the control device 40 switches the change information based on switching information indicating a change in the work content of the store clerk. By switching the change information, the work that should be done is shown to the store clerk in order. Then, by performing the work in order according to the change information, the store clerk can efficiently proceed with the display change regardless of his / her level of proficiency.

[0068] In this embodiment, the switching information is information based on an input to the clerk terminal 50. Specifically, when the clerk completes the task displayed on the display panel 30, he or she performs an operation to indicate this on the clerk terminal 50. Information indicating that the task completion operation has been performed is then transmitted from the clerk terminal 50 to the control device 40. The control device 40 then switches the display content on the display panel 30 to the next change information. The clerk then performs the next task in accordance with the new change information displayed on the display panel 30.

[0069] The control device 40 generates display data indicating display content for the store clerk based on the first display data before the change in product arrangement and the second display data after the change in product arrangement. Specifically, the display data includes change information indicating the work to be performed to realize the changed arrangement from the pre-change arrangement. The display data generation means 450 of the control device 40 generates multiple display data items each including the change information indicating the work to be performed in sequence. The transmission means 470 then transmits the display data items to the display panel 30 in sequence based on the switching information.

[0070] The operations performed by system 10 and how system 10 may be used are described in more detail below.

[0071] FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the clerk terminal 50 for switching the display content of the display panel 30. Assume that the display panel 30 before switching displays content intended for customers. A clerk who wishes to change the display arrangement first specifies the display fixture 220 whose arrangement is to be changed on the clerk terminal 50. The clerk also specifies the display data after the change. The clerk then performs an operation to start the work. Specifically, in the example of this figure, the clerk selects or inputs the rack number and the display data after the change, and then taps the start button 510. Note that the display fixture 220 may be specified by reading a code attached to the display fixture 220 with the camera of the clerk terminal 50.

[0072] When an operation to start work is performed on the clerk terminal 50, the display data generation means 450 acquires the current display data of the display fixtures 220 specified by the clerk terminal 50 as first display data. It also acquires the changed display data specified by the clerk terminal 50 as second display data.

[0073] In this embodiment, the configuration of the control device 40 can be exemplified in Figure 5 or Figure 12. In this embodiment, the first display data and the second display data are acquired by the acquisition means 410 as described in the first embodiment. Alternatively, the first display data and the second display data are generated by the display data generation means 420 as described in the second embodiment. Alternatively, one of the first display data and the second display data may be acquired by the acquisition means 410, and the other may be generated by the display data generation means 420. The display data generation means 450 may acquire each display data from the acquisition means 410, the display data generation means 420, or by reading it from the storage means 440.

[0074] Next, the display data generation means 450 extracts the difference between the first display data and the second display data as follows, and generates change information based on the difference.

[0075] A display change may consist of, for example, "the work of making space," "the work of moving products," and "the work of introducing products." "The work of making space" is at least one of the work of removing products from a shelf and the work of reducing the face. "The work of moving products" is at least one of the work of moving products within the same shelf 20 and the work of moving products to a different shelf 20. "The work of introducing products" is at least one of the work of enlarging the face and the work of adding new products. The display data generation means 450 displays change information on the display panel 30 so that at least one of the "work of making space," "work of moving products," and "work of introducing products" is performed. Here, it is preferable that the "work of making space," "work of moving products," and "work of introducing products" are performed in this order. Each work is performed for each row of products.

[0076] FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the second display data. FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating the arrangement of products based on the display data of FIG. 24. Assume also that the first display data is as shown in FIG. 13. The arrangement of products shown in FIG. 13 is schematically represented in FIG. 8. An example of the display content for customers based on the first display data is shown in FIG. 10. Display support will be described in detail below with reference to these examples of the first display data and second display data. However, the first display data and second display data are not limited to this example.

[0077] FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating a process performed by the display data generating means 450 to display display content for the store clerk on the display panel 30. After acquiring the first display data and the second display data, the display data generating means 450 performs step S10. In step S10, the display data generating means 450 extracts products to be removed from the first display data. That is, the display data generating means 450 extracts products that are included in the first display data but not included in the second display data as products to be removed. The display data generating means 450 then generates display data for displaying, on the display panel 30, change information indicating that the extracted products should be removed. The generated display data is transmitted to the display panel 30, and the change information is displayed on the display panel 30. Note that if there are no products to be removed, the display data generating means 450 performs step S12 without generating display data.

[0078] FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display panel 30 displaying change information indicating that a product should be removed. In step S10, a product with product code "10020" is extracted from the first display data of FIG. 13. Then, a message prompting the removal of the product is displayed in the display area 310 of the product corresponding to this product code. The store clerk, seeing this, removes the product in accordance with the message. Note that price tag information may be displayed in the display area 310 of products that are not currently being worked on. This allows customers to check the product price even while the store clerk is working. Furthermore, the display area 310 may further display information intended for the store clerk, such as "Working mode in progress."

[0079] FIG. 28 shows a display screen of the clerk terminal 50 for transmitting switching information to the control device 40. During the operation, the clerk terminal 50 displays the information shown in this figure. When the clerk completes the operation displayed on the display panel 30, the clerk inputs to the clerk terminal 50 that the operation is complete. Specifically, the clerk taps the Complete button 520. Switching information based on the input to the clerk terminal 50 is then transmitted from the clerk terminal 50 to the control device 40. When the control device 40 receives the switching information, the display data generating means 450 accepts it (step S11) and then performs the processing of step S12. Note that if multiple products are extracted in step S10, the display data generating means 450 that has accepted the switching information generates display data for displaying change information indicating that the next product should be picked up. Then, change information for all products extracted in step S10 is displayed, and once the switching information has been accepted, the processing proceeds to step S12.

[0080] In step S12, the display data generation means 450 extracts products whose faces should be reduced from the first display data. That is, the display data generation means 450 compares the number of faces of products included in the first display data other than the product extracted in step S10 with the number of faces of products included in the second display data. Then, products whose number of faces in the second display data is smaller than the number of faces in the first display data are extracted as products whose faces should be reduced. Next, the display data generation means 450 generates display data for displaying on the display panel 30 modification information indicating that the faces of the extracted products should be reduced. The generated display data is transmitted to the display panel 30, and the modification information is displayed on the display panel 30. Note that if there are no products whose faces should be reduced, the display data generation means 450 performs step S14 without generating display data.

[0081] 29 and 30 illustrate examples of the display panel 30 displaying change information indicating that the product face should be reduced. In step S12, products with product codes "10060" and "10061" are extracted from the first display data in FIG. 13 . Then, as shown in FIG. 29 , a message prompting the customer to reduce the face appears in the display area 310 of the product corresponding to one of the product codes. This message may also include the number of faces after the change. The display data generating means 450 may compare the first and second display data and display an arrow or other indicator indicating the direction in which the face should be reduced. In the example shown in the figure, the change information is displayed in the display area 310 before the face reduction. However, the change information may also be displayed only in the display area 310 after the face reduction. This makes it easier for the store clerk to understand the direction in which the face should be reduced. Furthermore, the display on the display panels 30a and 30b may reflect the progress of the work at each step. In the example shown in this figure, for example, the display area 310 is not displayed in the space that was created by removing the product in the previous operation.

[0082] The store clerk, looking at the display panel 30, reduces the product faces in accordance with the display. Then, when the store clerk has completed the task displayed on the display panel 30, he or she inputs to the store clerk terminal 50, as in step S11, that the task has been completed. Then, as shown in Fig. 30, a message prompting the store clerk to reduce the face appears in the display area 310 of the product corresponding to the other product code. In this way, change information for all extracted products is displayed, and switching information based on the input to the store clerk terminal 50 is sent from the store clerk terminal 50 to the control device 40 (step S13), and then the display data generating means 450 performs step S14.

[0083] In step S14, the display data generation means 450 extracts from the first display data products that should be moved within the same shelf 20. That is, the display data generation means 450 compares the shelf identification information of products included in the first display data other than the product extracted in step S10 with the shelf identification information of products included in the second display data. The display data generation means 450 then extracts products whose shelf identification information matches between the display data. Furthermore, the display data generation means 450 compares the positions of the extracted products between the first display data and the second display data, and extracts products that need to be repositioned as products that should be moved within the same shelf 20. Next, the display data generation means 450 generates display data for displaying change information indicating that the extracted products will be moved on the display panel 30. The generated display data is transmitted to the display panel 30, and the change information is displayed on the display panel 30. Note that if there are no products that should be moved within the same shelf 20, the display data generation means 450 performs step S16 without generating display data.

[0084] FIG. 31 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display panel 30 on which change information indicating that a product is to be moved within the same shelf 20 is displayed. From the first display data of FIG. 13, products with product codes "10060," "10061," and "10059" are extracted in step S14. Then, a message prompting the product to move is displayed in the display area 310 for the products corresponding to these product codes. The store clerk, seeing this message, moves the product in accordance with the message. In the example of this figure, the arrangement of the products after the movement is shown on the display panel 30 as the arrangement in the display area 310, allowing the work to be performed efficiently. Then, after completing the work displayed on the display panel 30, the store clerk inputs to the store clerk terminal 50 that the work has been completed, as in step S11. Then, switching information based on the input to the store clerk terminal 50 is transmitted from the store clerk terminal 50 to the control device 40. When the display data generating means 450 receives the switching information (step S15), it then performs step S16.

[0085] In step S16, the display data generation means 450 extracts products that should be moved to a different shelf 20 from the first display data. That is, the display data generation means 450 compares the shelf identification information of products included in the first display data other than the products extracted in step S10 with the shelf identification information of products included in the second display data. Then, the display data generation means 450 extracts products whose shelf identification information does not match between the display data as products that should be moved to a different shelf 20. Next, the display data generation means 450 generates display data for displaying on the display panel 30 change information indicating that the extracted products will be moved. The generated display data is transmitted to the display panel 30, and the change information is displayed on the display panel 30. Note that if there are no products that should be moved to a different shelf 20, the display data generation means 450 performs step S18 without generating display data.

[0086] FIG. 32 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display panel 30 on which change information indicating that a product is to be moved to a different shelf 20 is displayed. In step S16, a product with product code "10088" is extracted from the first display data of FIG. 13. Then, a display prompting the user to move the product is displayed in the display area 310 for the product corresponding to this product code. Specifically, this display prompts the user to remove the product from the shelf 20 from which the product is to be moved, and to place the product on the shelf 20 to which the product is to be moved. In the example shown in this figure, the arrangement of the products after the move is shown on the display panel 30 as the arrangement in the display area 310, allowing the work to be carried out efficiently.

[0087] The store clerk, looking at the display panel 30, moves the product in accordance with the display. Then, when the store clerk has completed the task displayed on the display panel 30, he or she inputs to the store clerk terminal 50 that the task has been completed, as in step S11. Then, switching information based on the input to the store clerk terminal 50 is transmitted from the store clerk terminal 50 to the control device 40. When the display data generating means 450 receives the switching information (step S17), it then performs step S18. Note that if multiple products are extracted in step S16, the display data generating means 450 that has received the switching information generates display data for displaying change information indicating that the next product will be moved. Then, the change information for all products extracted in step S16 is displayed, and once the switching information has been received, the process proceeds to step S18.

[0088] In step S18, the display data generation means 450 extracts products whose faces should be enlarged from the first display data. That is, the display data generation means 450 compares the number of faces of products included in the first display data other than the product extracted in step S10 with the number of faces of products included in the second display data. Then, products whose number of faces in the second display data is greater than the number of faces in the first display data are extracted as products whose faces should be enlarged. Next, the display data generation means 450 generates display data for displaying on the display panel 30 change information indicating that the faces of the extracted products should be enlarged. The generated display data is transmitted to the display panel 30, and the change information is displayed on the display panel 30. Note that if there are no products whose faces should be enlarged, the display data generation means 450 performs step S20 without generating display data.

[0089] FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display panel 30 displaying change information indicating that the face of a product is to be enlarged. From the first display data in FIG. 13, a product with product code "10099" is extracted in step S18. Then, a message urging the customer to enlarge the face is displayed in the display area 310 of the product corresponding to this product code. This message may include the number of faces after the change. Here, the display data generating means 450 may compare the first display data with the second display data and display an arrow or the like indicating the direction in which the face should be enlarged. In the example shown in this figure, the change information is displayed in the display area 310 after the face has been enlarged. This makes it easier for the store clerk to determine how far the face should be enlarged.

[0090] The store clerk, looking at the display panel 30, enlarges the product faces in accordance with the display. Then, when the store clerk has completed the task displayed on the display panel 30, he or she inputs to the store clerk terminal 50 that the task has been completed, as in step S11. Then, switching information based on the input to the store clerk terminal 50 is transmitted from the store clerk terminal 50 to the control device 40. When the display data generating means 450 receives the switching information (step S19), it then performs step S20. Note that if multiple products are extracted in step S18, the display data generating means 450 that has received the switching information generates display data for displaying change information indicating that the face of the next product is to be enlarged. Then, the change information for all products extracted in step S18 is displayed, and once the switching information has been received, the process proceeds to step S20.

[0091] In step S20, the display data generation means 450 extracts products to be introduced from the second display data. That is, the display data generation means 450 extracts products that are included in the second display data but not included in the first display data as products to be introduced. Next, the display data generation means 450 generates display data for displaying change information indicating that the extracted products will be introduced on the display panel 30. The generated display data is transmitted to the display panel 30, and the change information is displayed on the display panel 30. Note that if there are no products to be introduced, the display data generation means 450 performs step S22 without generating display data.

[0092] Fig. 34 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display panel 30 on which change information indicating that a product will be introduced is displayed. In step S20, a product with product code "10046" is extracted from the second display data of Fig. 24. Then, a message urging the introduction is displayed in the display area 310 of the product corresponding to this product code. In the example of this figure, the arrangement of the product to be introduced is shown on the display panel 30 as the arrangement in the display area 310, allowing for efficient operation.

[0093] The store clerk, looking at the display panel 30, introduces the product according to the display. Then, when the store clerk has completed the task displayed on the display panel 30, he or she inputs to the store clerk terminal 50 that the task has been completed, as in step S11. Then, switching information based on the input to the store clerk terminal 50 is transmitted from the store clerk terminal 50 to the control device 40. When the display data generation means 450 receives the switching information (step S21), it terminates the processing. Note that if multiple products are extracted in step S20, the display data generation means 450 that has received the switching information generates display data for displaying change information indicating that the next product will be introduced. Then, the change information for all products extracted in step S20 is displayed, and once the switching information has been received, the processing proceeds to step S22.

[0094] In step S22, the display data generating means 450 switches the display content of the display panel 30 from that for the store clerk to that for the customer. Here, the display content for the customer after the switch includes the price tag information after the display arrangement has been changed based on the second display data. Note that in addition to the product arrangement, the price and other information about the products may also be updated. The display data generating means 450 may obtain new product information and display the changed price tag information on the display panel 30 based on that product information.

[0095] FIG. 35 is a diagram showing an example of the display content for customers after the display arrangement has been changed.

[0096] In the above process, the control device 40 may change the color of at least some of the display content for the store clerk based on the type of work content. For example, at least one of the background color, text color, and frame color of the display area 310 that displays the change information can be made different for "reducing the face," "enlarging the face," "removing a product," "putting a product in," and "moving a product." This allows the store clerk to intuitively understand the work content.

[0097] Next, the operation and effect of this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the same operation and effect as in the first embodiment can be obtained. In addition, the display on the display panel 30 can assist the store clerk in their work.

[0098] (Fourth embodiment) Fig. 36 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a system 10 according to a fourth embodiment. Fig. 37 is a diagram illustrating the usage environment and display content of a display panel 30 according to the fourth embodiment. The system 10 and the control device 40 according to this embodiment are the same as the system 10 and the control device 40 according to the third embodiment, except for the points described below.

[0099] The system 10 according to this embodiment includes a reading unit 250. A wireless communication tag 230 is attached to the product 210. A reading unit 250 for the wireless communication tag 230 is provided on the shelf 20. The switching information is information based on the reading result of the reading unit 250. This will be explained in detail below.

[0100] The wireless communication tag 230 is, for example, an RFID (radio frequency identifier), and the reading means 250 is an RFID reader. The wireless communication tag 230 holds product identification information (ID) of the product 210 to which the wireless communication tag 230 is attached. The reading means 250 is, for example, in the form of a sheet, and is placed on the product placement surface 201 of the shelf 20. In this case, the reading means 250 is positioned between the shelf 20 and the product 210. The reading means 250 can read the product identification information from the wireless communication tag 230. The product identification information is, for example, assigned to each individual product 210. Meanwhile, the storage means 440 holds product management data. The product management data is, for example, data indicating the inventory status of the product 210 in the store. The product management data includes multiple pieces of product identification information. The product management data also includes a product code, a display expiration date, and the like, associated with each piece of product identification information.

[0101] The control device 40 is connected to the reading means 250 via the network interface 1120 or the input / output interface 1100. The acquiring means 410 of the control device 40 can acquire the reading result of the wireless communication tag 230, i.e., the product identification information, from the reading means 250.

[0102] The process performed by the display data generating means 450 according to this embodiment to display the display content for the store clerk on the display panel 30 can be exemplified by a flowchart similar to that shown in Fig. 26. However, the display data generating means 450 can switch the change information to be displayed on the display panel 30 based on the reading result of the reading means 250.

[0103] In this embodiment, when the display data generation means 450 displays the change information on the display panel 30, the store clerk performs tasks such as moving, removing, and installing the products 210 in accordance with the displayed content. During the tasks, i.e., while the change information is being displayed, the reading means 250 reads product identification information from the wireless communication tags 230 of the products 210 placed on the shelf 20 and transmits the information to the control device 40. Upon acquiring the product identification information, the display data generation means 450 compares the information with product management data read from the storage means 440 and extracts the product code of the product. The control device 40 can also acquire, from the reading means 250, information indicating the position on the shelf 20 at which each wireless communication tag 230 was detected. This allows the display data generation means 450 to identify the number and arrangement of the products 210 with each product code on the shelf 20. The display data generation means 450 can then monitor whether the tasks performed on the products 210 are being performed in accordance with the change information displayed on the display panel 30.

[0104] 38 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display panel 30 on which a warning is displayed. For example, when a change is made to a product that does not need to be changed, or when a product different from the product that should have been introduced is introduced, the display data generating means 450 displays a warning on the display panel 30. By doing so, operational errors and the like are reduced, and the working time of the store clerk can be shortened.

[0105] Furthermore, in steps S11, 13, 15, 17, 19, and 21, the display data generating means 450 determines whether the work indicated in the change information has been completed based on the results of reading by the reading means 250. If it is determined that the work has been completed, the process proceeds to the next step. Specifically, the display data generating means 450 determines that the work has been completed when the product arrangement on the shelf 20 has reached the state after the change based on each piece of change information. This allows the store clerk to switch the change information without having to operate the store clerk terminal 50.

[0106] Furthermore, even if the display data generation means 450 does not determine that the work has been completed based on the reading result of the reading means 250, the display data generation means 450 may switch the change information to be displayed on the display panel 30 when an input indicating that the work has been completed is made to the store clerk terminal 50 as described in the third embodiment.

[0107] Next, the operation and effect of this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the same operation and effect as in the first embodiment can be obtained. In addition, the display change work can be made more efficient.

[0108] (Fifth embodiment) The system 10 and the control device 40 according to the fifth embodiment are the same as the system 10 and the control device 40 according to the fourth embodiment, except for the points described below.

[0109] According to the system 10 of this embodiment, the display content for store staff includes information indicating whether or not there are any products whose display expiration date has passed. This can assist in managing the display expiration dates of products. Products in a store have display expiration dates based, for example, on the expiration date of food products. Product identification information is assigned to each individual product, for example, and the display expiration date is included in the product management data as explained in the fourth embodiment. The display data generation means 450 can identify the display expiration date of each product placed on the shelf 20 by comparing the reading results obtained from the reading means 250 with the product management data.

[0110] FIG. 39 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the clerk terminal 50 for managing display expiration dates. FIG. 40 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display panel 30 displaying a message prompting the user to remove a product. The clerk can start the expiration date management mode by specifying display fixture identification information on the clerk terminal 50 and changing the mode to expiration date management mode. When expiration date management mode begins, the display data generation means 450 identifies the display expiration dates of the products placed on each shelf 20 of the display fixture 220 based on the read results of the reading means 250 and the product management data. The display data generation means 450 then determines whether each identified display expiration date is earlier than the current date and time. If it is determined that the display expiration date is earlier than the current date and time, the display data generation means 450 displays a message prompting the user to remove the product on the display panel 30, as shown in FIG. 40. In the example shown in this figure, a message prompting the user to remove the product is displayed in the display area 310 of the row containing the expired product. The number and positions of products to be taken out may be further displayed on at least one of the display panel 30 and the store clerk terminal 50. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 39, the details of the work to be performed by the store clerk may be displayed on the store clerk terminal 50.

[0111] The store clerk follows the display on the display panel 30 to search for expired products and remove them from the shelf 20. When all expired products 210 have been removed, the display data generating means 450 determines that the work is complete based on the results of reading by the reading means 250, and ends the expiration management mode. The expiration management mode may also be ended when the store clerk performs an operation on the store clerk terminal 50 indicating that the work is complete (for example, by tapping the complete button 530). Note that any necessary processing of the product management data, such as disposal registration, may be performed on the spot.

[0112] Next, the operation and effect of this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the same operation and effect as in the first embodiment can be obtained. In addition, the display period can be managed efficiently and accurately.

[0113] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings, these are merely examples of the present invention, and various other configurations may be adopted. For example, in the sequence diagrams and flowcharts used in the above description, multiple steps (processes) are described in order, but the order of execution of the steps performed in each embodiment is not limited to the order described. In each embodiment, the order of the steps shown in the drawings may be changed to the extent that the content is not affected. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments may be combined to the extent that the content is not contradictory.

[0114] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings, these are merely examples of the present invention, and various other configurations can also be adopted.

[0115] Some or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but are not limited to, the following supplementary notes. 1-1. Display panels installed on shelves, a control device for controlling the display content of the display panel, The control device is a system that switches between display content for store clerks and display content for customers and displays the same on the display panel. 1-2. In the system described in 1-1, The system wherein the display content for the store clerk includes change information indicating changes in the arrangement of products on the shelves. 1-3. In the system described in 1-2, The control device is a system that generates display data showing display content for the store clerk based on first display data before the product arrangement is changed and second display data after the product arrangement is changed. 1-4. In the system described in 1-2. or 1-3., The control device is a system that switches the change information based on switching information indicating that the work content of the store clerk will be switched. 1-5. In the system described in 1-4, The system in which the switching information is information based on input to a store clerk terminal. 1-6. In the system described in 1-4., A wireless communication tag is attached to the product, The shelf is provided with a reading means for the wireless communication tag, The system wherein the switching information is information based on the reading result of the reading means. 1-7. In the system according to any one of 1-4 to 1-6, The control device is a system that changes the color of at least a portion of the display content for the store clerk based on the type of work content. 1-8. In the system according to any one of 1-1 to 1-7, The control device is a system that switches between display content for the store clerk and display content for the customer based on input to a store clerk terminal. 1-9. In the system according to any one of 1-1 to 1-8, The customer-facing display includes one or more price tag information. 1-10. In the system described in 1-9, The length of the long side of the display panel is at least twice the length of the short side of the display panel, The control device is a system that determines a display area for each of the price tag information items on the display panel using the shelf display data. 2-1. A control device that controls the display content of a display panel installed on a shelf, A control device switches between display content for store clerks and display content for customers and displays the same on the display panel. 2-2. In the control device described in 2-1, The control device includes a display for the store clerk that includes change information indicating a change in the arrangement of products on the shelves. 2-3. In the control device described in 2-2, a control device that generates display data indicating display content for the store clerk based on first display data before the change in the product arrangement and second display data after the change in the product arrangement. 2-4. In the control device according to 2-2. or 2-3., A control device that switches the change information based on switching information indicating that the work content of the store clerk will be switched. 2-5. In the control device described in 2-4, The control device, wherein the switching information is information based on input to a store clerk terminal. 2-6. In the control device described in 2-4, A wireless communication tag is attached to the product, The shelf is provided with a reading means for the wireless communication tag, The control device, wherein the switching information is information based on the reading result of the reading means. 2-7. The control device according to any one of 2-4 to 2-6, A control device that switches the color of at least a portion of the display content for the store clerk based on the type of work content. 2-8. The control device according to any one of 2-1 to 2-7, A control device that switches between display content for the store clerk and display content for the customer based on input to the store clerk terminal. 2-9. The control device according to any one of 2-1 to 2-8, The control device wherein the customer display includes one or more price tag information. 2-10. In the control device according to 2-9, The length of the long side of the display panel is at least twice the length of the short side of the display panel, a control device that determines a display area for each of the price tag information items on the display panel using the shelf display data; 3-1. A computer program for realizing a control device that controls the display content of a display panel installed on a shelf, A computer program that causes a computer to function as the control device that switches between display content for store clerks and display content for customers and displays the same on the display panel. 3-2. In the computer program described in 3-1, The computer program includes a display for the store clerk that includes change information indicating changes in the arrangement of products on the shelves. 3-3. In the computer program described in 3-2, The control device is a computer program that generates display data showing display content for the store clerk based on first display data before the product arrangement is changed and second display data after the product arrangement is changed. 3-4. In the computer program according to 3-2. or 3-3., The control device is a computer program that switches the change information based on switching information indicating that the work content of the store clerk will be switched. 3-5. In the computer program according to 3-4, The switching information is a computer program based on input to a store clerk terminal. 3-6. In the computer program described in 3-4, A wireless communication tag is attached to the product, The shelf is provided with a reading means for the wireless communication tag, The computer program, wherein the switching information is information based on the reading result of the reading means. 3-7. In the computer program according to any one of 3-4 to 3-6, The control device is a computer program that changes the color of at least a portion of the display content for the store clerk based on the type of work content. 3-8. In the computer program according to any one of 3-1 to 3-7, The control device is a computer program that switches between display content for the store clerk and display content for the customer based on input to the store clerk terminal. 3-9. In the computer program according to any one of 3-1 to 3-8, The computer program wherein the customer display includes one or more price tag information. 3-10. In the computer program according to 3-9, The length of the long side of the display panel is at least twice the length of the short side of the display panel, The control device is a computer program that determines a display area for each piece of price tag information on the display panel using the shelf display data. 4-1. A control method for controlling the display content of a display panel installed on a shelf, comprising: A control method in which a computer switches between display content for store clerks and display content for customers and displays the same on the display panel. 4-2. In the control method described in 4-1, A control method in which the content displayed for the store clerk includes change information indicating a change in the arrangement of products on the shelves. 4-3. In the control method described in 4-2, A control method in which the computer generates display data showing display content for the store clerk based on first display data before the product arrangement is changed and second display data after the product arrangement is changed. 4-4. In the control method described in 4-2. or 4-3., The computer switches the change information based on switching information indicating that the work content of the store clerk will be switched. 4-5. In the control method described in 4-4, A control method in which the switching information is information based on input to a store clerk terminal. 4-6. In the control method described in 4-4, A wireless communication tag is attached to the product, The shelf is provided with a reading means for the wireless communication tag, A control method in which the switching information is information based on a result of reading by the reading means. 4-7. In the control method according to any one of 4-4 to 4-6, A control method in which the computer switches the color of at least a part of the display content for the store clerk based on the type of work content. 4-8. In the control method according to any one of 4-1 to 4-7, A control method in which the computer switches between display content for the store clerk and display content for the customer based on an input to a store clerk terminal. 4-9. In the control method according to any one of 4-1 to 4-8, The method wherein the customer display includes one or more price tag information. 4-10. In the control method described in 4-9, The length of the long side of the display panel is at least twice the length of the short side of the display panel, A control method in which the computer determines a display area for each of the price tag information items on the display panel using the shelf display data.

[0116] 5-1. Display panels installed on shelves, a control device for controlling the display content of the display panel, The control device is a system that generates display data indicating the display content for the store clerk to display on the display panel based on first display data before the change and second display data after the change regarding the arrangement of products on the shelf. 5-2. In the system described in 5-1, The system wherein the display content for the store clerk includes change information indicating changes in the arrangement of products on the shelves. 5-3. In the system described in 5-2, The control device is a system that switches the change information based on switching information indicating that the work content of the store clerk will be switched. 5-4. In the system described in 5-3, The system in which the switching information is information based on input to a store clerk terminal. 5-5. In the system described in 5-3, A wireless communication tag is attached to the product, The shelf is provided with a reading means for the wireless communication tag, The system wherein the switching information is information based on the reading result of the reading means. 5-6. In the system according to any one of 5-3 to 5-5, The control device is a system that changes the color of at least a portion of the display content for the store clerk based on the type of work content. 6-1. A control device that controls the display content of a display panel installed on a shelf, a control device that generates display data indicating display content for the store clerk to be displayed on the display panel based on first display data before the change and second display data after the change regarding the arrangement of products on the shelf; 6-2. In the control device described in 6-1, The control device includes a display for the store clerk that includes change information indicating a change in the arrangement of products on the shelves. 6-3. In the control device described in 6-2, A control device that switches the change information based on switching information indicating that the work content of the store clerk will be switched. 6-4. In the control device described in 6-3, The control device, wherein the switching information is information based on input to a store clerk terminal. 6-5. In the control device described in 6-3, A wireless communication tag is attached to the product, The shelf is provided with a reading means for the wireless communication tag, The control device, wherein the switching information is information based on the reading result of the reading means. 6-6. The control device according to any one of 6-3 to 6-5, A control device that switches the color of at least a portion of the display content for the store clerk based on the type of work content. 7-1. A computer program for realizing a control device that controls the display content of a display panel installed on a shelf, Computer, A computer program that functions as the control device to generate display data indicating the display content for the store clerk to be displayed on the display panel based on the first display data before the change and the second display data after the change regarding the arrangement of products on the shelf. 7-2. In the computer program described in 7-1, The computer program includes a display for the store clerk that includes change information indicating a change in the arrangement of products on the shelves. 7-3. In the computer program described in 7-2, The control device is a computer program that switches the change information based on switching information indicating that the work content of the store clerk will be switched. 7-4. In the computer program described in 7-3, The switching information is a computer program based on input to a store clerk terminal. 7-5. In the computer program described in 7-3, A wireless communication tag is attached to the product, The shelf is provided with a reading means for the wireless communication tag, The computer program, wherein the switching information is information based on the reading result of the reading means. 7-6. In the computer program according to any one of 7-3 to 7-5, The control device is a computer program that changes the color of at least a portion of the display content for the store clerk based on the type of work content. 8-1. A control method for controlling the display content of a display panel installed on a shelf, comprising: A control method in which a computer generates display data indicating the display content for the store clerk to display on the display panel based on first display data before the change and second display data after the change regarding the arrangement of products on the shelf. 8-2. In the control method described in 8-1, A control method in which the content displayed for the store clerk includes change information indicating a change in the arrangement of products on the shelves. 8-3. In the control method described in 8-2, The computer switches the change information based on switching information indicating that the work content of the store clerk will be switched. 8-4. In the control method described in 8-3, A control method in which the switching information is information based on input to a store clerk terminal. 8-5. In the control method described in 8-3, A wireless communication tag is attached to the product, The shelf is provided with a reading means for the wireless communication tag, A control method in which the switching information is information based on a result of reading by the reading means. 8-6. In the control method according to any one of 8-3 to 8-5, A control method in which the computer switches the color of at least a part of the display content for the store clerk based on the type of work content.

[0117] 9-1. Display panels installed on shelves, a control device for controlling the display content of the display panel, The control device is a system that determines a display area for price tag information on the display panel using the shelf display data. 9-2. In the system described in 9-1, A system in which the length of the long side of the display panel is at least twice the length of the short side of the display panel. 10-1. A control device for controlling the display content of a display panel installed on a shelf, a control device that determines a display area for price tag information on the display panel using the shelf display data; 10-2. In the control device described in 10-1, A control device in which the length of the long side of the display panel is at least twice the length of the short side of the display panel. 11-1. A computer program for realizing a control device that controls the display content of a display panel installed on a shelf, A computer program that causes a computer to function as the control device that determines a display area for price tag information on the display panel using the shelf display data. 11-2. In the computer program described in 11-1, A computer program, wherein the length of the long side of the display panel is at least twice the length of the short side of the display panel. 12-1. A control method for controlling the display content of a display panel installed on a shelf, comprising: A control method in which a computer determines a display area for price tag information on the display panel using the shelf display data. 12-2. In the control method described in 12-1, A control method in which the length of the long side of the display panel is at least twice the length of the short side of the display panel.

[0118] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-232701, filed December 12, 2018, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Claims

1. A display panel installed on a shelf; a control device for controlling the display content of the display panel, the control device switches between display content for the store clerk, including information to assist the store clerk in his / her work, and display content for the customer, including price tag information, and displays the switched content on the display panel; The control device controls the display to prompt the store clerk to perform the work when the display content for the customer is being displayed and there is work that the store clerk needs to perform on the shelf. system.

2. 10. The system of claim 1, The control device displays a message prompting the store clerk to perform the work in a display area of ​​the display panel for the product to be worked on, and displays the price tag information in the display area for the product not to be worked on. system.

3. 3. The system of claim 2, The control device determines the display area of ​​each product on the display panel using the shelf display data. system.

4. 4. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The display content for the store clerk includes change information indicating a change in the arrangement of the products on the shelves. system.

5. 5. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The control device switches between display content for the store clerk and display content for the customer based on an input to the store clerk terminal. system.

6. A computer program for realizing a control device that controls display content of a display panel installed on a shelf, On the computer, displaying on the display panel a display content for the store clerk including information to assist the store clerk in his / her work and a display content for the customer including price tag information; A program for controlling the display of the customer-oriented content so that, when there is work that a store clerk needs to do on the shelf while the customer-oriented content is being displayed, a message urging the store clerk to do the work is displayed together with the customer-oriented content.

7. A control method for controlling display content of a display panel installed on a shelf, comprising: The computer displaying on the display panel a display content for the store clerk including information to assist the store clerk in his / her work and a display content for the customer including price tag information; When the display content for the customer is being displayed and there is work that the store clerk needs to do on the shelf, the display content for the customer is controlled to be displayed together with a message urging the store clerk to do the work. Control method.

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