Weighing device, program

Abstract

To improve weighing sales for performing tare subtraction.SOLUTION: A weighing device includes mass detection means for detecting the mass of an article mounted on a mounting table, tare information generation means for generating tare information on tare mounted on the mounting table, association means for associating the tare information with management information for managing the tare information, management information specification means for specifying one piece of management information in the management information associated with the tare information, and product specification means for specifying a product, and includes a first operation mode for generating the tare information by the tare information generation means, or a second operation mode for calculating a sale price on the basis of the tare detected by the mass detection means, and the mass of the tare included in the tare information generated by the tare information generation means: the tare information associated with the management information specified by the management information specification means, and a unit price of the product specified by the product specification means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] For example, a system is known in which tare weight is subtracted in weighed sales (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Jitszen No. 58-172836 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, there is room for improvement in metered sales where tare weight is subtracted.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a technology for improving weighing sales in which tare weight is subtracted. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the weighing device of the present invention is a weighing device characterized by comprising a mass detection means for detecting the mass of an item placed on a placing platform, a tare information generation means for generating tare information regarding a tare placed on the placing platform, and an association means for associating the tare information generated by the tare information generation means with management information for managing the tare information. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the appearance of a weighing device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2]FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of a weighing device. [Figure 3] 10 is an example of a display on a weighing device. [Figure 4] 10 is an example of a display on a weighing device. [Figure 5] 10 is an example of a display on a weighing device. [Figure 6] 10 is an example of a display on a weighing device. [Figure 7] 10 is an example of a display on a weighing device. [Figure 8] 10 is an example of a display on a weighing device. [Figure 9] 10 is an example of a display on a weighing device. [Figure 10] 10 is an example of a display on a weighing device. [Figure 11] 10 is an example of a display on a weighing device. [Figure 12] 10 is an example of a display on a weighing device. [Figure 13] 10 is an example of a display on a weighing device. [Figure 14] 10 is an example of a display on a weighing device. [Figure 15] 10 is an example of a display on a weighing device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the appearance of a weighing device 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The weighing device 20 is installed in a store (supermarket, convenience store, drugstore, home improvement center, electronics retailer, etc.) that sells products sold by weight (sometimes referred to as "products sold individually" or "products priced by weight"). Products sold by weight include, for example, foods such as nuts, chocolate, dried fruit, seasonings, and alcoholic beverages, but may also be finished products, ingredients, etc. The reference numerals in FIG. 1 will be described later (also with reference to FIG. 2).

[0009] In the following description, the weighing device 20 will be described as being installed in a supermarket (store S). The weighing device 20 is operated by a store clerk at store S or a customer who visits (enters) store S. In the following description, the weighing device 20 is a self-service device, and is basically operated by a customer who visits store S (that is, except when a store clerk provides assistance, for example, by calling a store clerk).

[0010] In addition to merchandise sold by weight, store S also sells merchandise other than merchandise sold by weight (for example, merchandise with barcodes attached, etc.). In addition to the weighing device 20, store S is also equipped with, for example, cash registers (registration device, settlement device, registration and settlement device, etc.).

[0011] The weighing device 20 is installed, for example, near the display position of merchandise sold by weight in the store S. For example, the store S may have a merchandise sales area where various merchandise sold by weight are displayed and sold, and the weighing device 20 may be installed in the merchandise sales area.

[0012] Each of the bulk products is housed and displayed in its own container (display container). The product name and unit price (for example, unit price per 100g) of each bulk product is displayed on (or near) each display container. A customer takes out a desired amount of the product from the desired display container and places (packs) it into an empty container (take-out container).

[0013] The customer weighs the weighed product placed in a take-out container using weighing device 20. In other words, weighing device 20 weighs the weighed product placed in the take-out container. The take-out container corresponds to a tare. Weighing device 20 subtracts the weight of the tare (tare weight) from the weight of the weighed product placed in the take-out container (weight of the tare (take-out container) + net weight of the weighed product (i.e., purchased weight)), to calculate the purchased weight of the weighed product (tare subtraction).

[0014] The take-out containers are containers provided by the store S (hereinafter referred to as "store-provided containers") or containers brought by the customer to the store S (hereinafter referred to as "my containers"). Store-provided containers are sold, for example, in a bulk sales area. Using my own containers is beneficial from an environmental perspective.

[0015] (Basic flow for purchasing (selling) bulk products using my own container) The following (1) to (18) are the basic steps for purchasing bulk products in your own container.

[0016] (1) A customer comes to store S with their own container. (2) After performing a predetermined operation, the customer places their container on the weighing device 20. That is, the customer places their container (i.e., their empty container) on the weighing device 20 before filling it with a commodity sold by weight.

[0017] Regarding (1) and (2) above, when purchasing two or more types of weighed products, the customer brings two or more of his / her own containers and places them one by one on the weighing device 20. For example, when purchasing three types of weighed products, the customer brings three of his / her own containers (my container a, my container b, my container c) and places them one by one on the weighing device 20. The same applies when purchasing two or four or more types of weighed products.

[0018] (3) The weighing device 20 weighs the placed personal container (empty personal container) and captures an image of the placed personal container from above. The weighing device 20 stores the weight value and the captured image (still image) as tare weight information. In other words, the weighing device 20 stores a pair of the weight value of the personal container and the captured image of the personal container as tare weight information for the personal container (tare) placed by the customer.

[0019] Regarding (3) above, if a customer brings two or more personal containers and places them one by one on the weighing device 20, the weighing device 20 stores the tare weight information (a set of a weight value and a captured image) for each personal container. For example, if a customer brings three personal containers (personal container a, personal container b, personal container c) and places them one by one on the weighing device 20, the weighing device 20 stores the tare weight information for personal container a (a set of a weight value for personal container a and a captured image for personal container a), the tare weight information for personal container b (a set of a weight value for personal container b and a captured image for personal container b), and the tare weight information for personal container c (a set of a weight value for personal container c and a captured image for personal container c).

[0020] (4) The customer inputs a password to be set for the tare weight information (a set of weight values ​​and captured images) of one or more of their own containers stored in (3) above. Specifically, the customer inputs a password into the weighing device 20. This password is management information (management information) for managing the tare weight information of one or more of their own containers stored in (3) above as a result of the customer placing one or more empty my containers one by one. The customer can set (use) a password other than the one currently being used (the one stored as management information for managing the tare weight information of one or more other my containers). (5) The weighing device 20 determines whether the password entered in (4) above can be set. In other words, the weighing device 20 determines whether the password entered in (4) above is currently in use. The weighing device 20 determines that the password entered in (4) above is currently in use if it is stored as management information for managing the tare weight information of one or more other my containers, and determines that it is not currently in use if it is not stored as management information for managing the tare weight information of one or more other my containers. If the weighing device 20 determines that the password entered in (4) above is currently in use, it instructs the customer to enter another password (the customer returns to (4) above and enters another password). If the weighing device 20 determines that the password entered in (4) above is not currently in use, it proceeds to (6) below.

[0021] (6) The weighing device 20 stores the password set in (4) above as management information for managing the tare weight information of one or more my containers stored in (3) above. Specifically, the weighing device 20 stores (stores in its own memory) the password entered in (4) above in association with the tare weight information of one or more my containers stored in (3) above. In other words, the weighing device 20 stores (stores) the password entered in (4) above in association with the tare weight information of one or more my containers weighed in (3) above.

[0022] Regarding (3) to (6) above, for example, if tare weight information for one my container (tare weight information a for my container a) is stored in (3) above and the two-digit number "38" is entered as the password in (4), the weighing device 20 will associate and store the number "38" with the one piece of tare weight information (tare weight information a) in (6). Also, for example, if tare weight information for three my containers (tare weight information a for my container a, tare weight information b for my container b, and tare weight information c for my container c) is stored in (3) above and the two-digit number "38" is entered as the password in (4), the weighing device 20 will associate and store the number "38" with the three pieces of tare weight information (tare weight information a, tare weight information b, and tare weight information c) in (6).

[0023] Since the password and the tare weight information of one or more of my containers are stored in association with each other, when a certain password is entered later, it is possible to refer to the tare weight information of one or more of my containers that are stored in association with that password.

[0024] (7) The customer places the desired amount of the desired bulk product in their own container. If the customer purchases multiple bulk products, they place each bulk product in a different container. (8) The customer places the container containing the weight-sold product on the weighing device 20. If the customer is purchasing multiple weight-sold products (if the weight-sold products were placed in different containers in (7) above), the customer places one of the containers containing one weight-sold product on the weighing device 20. (9) The customer selects the type of container placed (store-provided container or my container). Specifically, the customer selects my container. (10) The customer enters the password set (entered) in (4) above. For example, if the customer set the number "38" in (4) above, the customer enters the number "38."

[0025] (11) The weighing device 20 displays the tare weight information of one or more my containers based on the password entered in (10) above, and displays one of the one or more my containers in a selectable manner. For example, if the tare weight information of one my container (tare weight information a of my container a) is stored in (3) above, the two-digit number "38" is set as the password in (4) above, and the number "38" is entered in (10) above, the weighing device 20 will display tare weight information a (a set of the weight value of my container a and the captured image of my container a) and display my container a in a selectable manner. For example, if tare weight information for three of my containers (tare weight information a for my container a, tare weight information b for my container b, and tare weight information c for my container c) is stored in (3) above, the two-digit number "38" is set as the password in (4) above, and the number "38" is entered in (10) above, the weighing device 20 will display tare weight information a (a set of the measured value of my container a and an image of my container a), tare weight information b (a set of the measured value of my container b and an image of my container b), and tare weight information c (a set of the measured value of my container c and an image of my container c), and will display one of my container a, my container b, or my container c in a selectable manner.

[0026] (12) The customer selects one of the one or more selectable containers displayed in (11) above. Specifically, the customer selects the container placed on the weighing device 20 in (8) above. (13) The weighing device 20 performs tare subtraction based on the selection result in (12) above and calculates the net weight (purchase weight) of the placed weighed product. In other words, the weighing device 20 obtains the tare information (weighing value of the my container) of the my container selected in (12) above (my container placed on the weighing device 20 in (8) above), subtracts the tare weight from the measured weight (tare weight + purchase weight of the weighed product), and calculates the purchase weight of the weighed product.

[0027] (14) The weighing device 20 displays a selectable product sold by weight. More specifically, the weighing device 20 displays a selectable product sold by weight from among all the products sold by weight in the weighing area. (15) The customer selects one of the weight-based products displayed as selectable in (14) above. Specifically, the customer selects the weight-based product placed on the weighing device 20 in (8) above. (16) The weighing device 20 determines the unit price of the metered product selected in (15) above and calculates the sales price. The unit price of each metered product may be stored in a location accessible to the weighing device 20 (for example, the memory of the weighing device 20, or the memory of another device with which the weighing device 20 can communicate). (17) Based on the customer's operation, the weighing device 20 prints and issues a product label (price label) for the product sold by weight (the product sold by weight placed on the weighing device 20 in (8) above). (18) The customer attaches the product label to the container (the container placed on the weighing device 20 in (8) above, i.e., the container selected in (12) above). The customer then takes the container with the product label attached to it to the cash register (payment device) and pays.

[0028] When two or more weighed-volume products are purchased, the weighing device 20 returns from (17) above to (11) above, printing and issuing product labels for all weighed-volume products in sequence. In (11) above, the weighing device 20 displays selectable my containers other than the my container selected in (12) above (the my container to which the product label issued in (17) above will be affixed). For example, in the first (11) above, the weighing device 20 displays tare weight information a, tare weight information b, and tare weight information c, and displays selectable one of my container a, my container b, or my container c. If my container a is selected in the first (12) above and a product label to be affixed to my container a is printed in the first (17) above, in the second (11) above, the weighing device 20 displays tare weight information b and tare weight information c, and displays selectable one of my container b or my container c. Next, if my container c is selected in (12) above for the second time and a product label to be affixed to that container c is produced in (17) above for the second time, the weighing device 20 displays the tare weight information b and makes my container b selectable in (11) above for the third time. After my container b is selected in (12) above for the third time, the weighing device 20 produces a product label to be affixed to that container b in (17) above for the third time, and the process ends.

[0029] (Register your own container) As described above, the weighing device 20 stores tare weight information (a combination of a weight value and a captured image) of my container. Hereinafter, the "storage of tare weight information of my container" by the weighing device 20 may be referred to as "registering my container" by the weighing device 20. "Tare weight information of my container" may be referred to as "registration information of my container." Furthermore, the weighing device 20 stores registration information (tare weight information) of one or more my containers linked to one password, and this may be expressed as "the weighing device 20 registers one or more my containers linked to one password" or simply as "the weighing device 20 registers my container."

[0030] Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of the weighing device 20. In Figures 1 and 2, the same parts are given the same reference numerals. Below, the configuration of the weighing device 20 shown in Figure 2 will be described with reference to Figure 1.

[0031] The weighing device 20 includes a CPU 21 (Central Processing Unit), a memory unit 22, a weighing unit 23, a camera (imaging unit) 24, a scanner unit (reading unit) 25, a display unit (touch display) 26, an audio output unit 27, a printing unit 28, and a communication unit 29.

[0032] The CPU 21 is a central processing unit that controls the overall operation of the weighing device 20 by reading and executing programs stored in the storage unit 22 .

[0033] The storage unit 22 stores various information (for example, information referred to or generated by the CPU 21, information acquired from the outside, etc.) (details will be described later). The storage unit 22 is a collective term for one or more various storage members (for example, memory or storage, such as RAM, ROM, hard disk, SSD (Solid State Drive), etc.).

[0034] The weighing unit 23 weighs an item placed on the platform (mounting platform) 23a (for example, by weight detection using a load cell) and obtains a weighing value. For example, the weighing unit 23 weighs a personal container (empty personal container) placed on the platform 23a and obtains a weighing value of the personal container (empty personal container). The weighing value of the empty personal container is one piece of tare information for the personal container. For another example, the weighing unit 23 weighs a personal container (personal container containing a bulk product) placed on the platform 23a and obtains a weighing value before tare. For another example, the weighing unit 23 weighs a store-provided container (store-provided container containing a bulk product) placed on the platform 23a and obtains a weighing value before tare.

[0035] Camera 24 captures an image (still image) from above of an item placed on platform 23a. For example, camera 24 captures an image of a personal container (empty personal container) placed on platform 23a from above and captures an image of the personal container (empty personal container). The image of the empty personal container is one piece of tare information for the personal container.

[0036] The scanner unit 25 optically reads various types of information. For example, the scanner unit 25 reads a store clerk code (or a management (administration) code for maintaining the weighing device 20) printed on a store clerk cart or the like. When the weighing device 20 acquires the store clerk code (administration code) (when the store clerk code (administration code) is read by the scanner unit 25), the weighing device 20 may display a maintenance screen (a screen exclusively for store clerks) that the store clerk can support (operate).

[0037] The display unit 26 displays various information to the operator. The display unit 26 also has a touch panel and functions as an operation unit. For example, the display unit 26 displays various operation screens such as those shown in Figs. 3 to 15.

[0038] The audio output unit 27 outputs audio. For example, the audio output unit 27 outputs various error sounds, confirmation sounds, audio guidance, and the like.

[0039] The printing unit 28 is a printer device that prints and issues media. For example, the printing unit 28 prints product labels after measuring a product sold by weight (calculating the purchase weight) and pricing it (calculating the selling price), and issues (discharges) the product labels from the label discharge port 28a.

[0040] The product label may be printed with, for example, the date and time, the product name of the product sold by weight, the purchase weight of the product sold by weight, the unit price of the product sold by weight, and the sales price. The product label may also be printed with the transaction number, the store name, the expiration date, and the type of container (for example, whether it is a store-provided container or a personal container). The weighing device 20 (for example, the printing unit 28) may also have a function to detect when a discharged product label has been removed from the label discharge port 28a.

[0041] The communication unit 29 transmits and receives information to and from other devices wirelessly (for example, wireless LAN (Local Area Network), Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc.) or via wire. For example, the communication unit 29 transmits a store clerk call notification (information that a store clerk has been called) to a device operated by the store clerk (for example, a cash register, a management device that manages the cash register, or a terminal carried by the store clerk (smartphone, tablet terminal)).

[0042] Although not shown in Fig. 2, the weighing device 20 has a clock function (timekeeping function). The clock function enables the weighing device 20 to manage, for example, the current time, the remaining time until a certain time, and the elapsed time since a certain state was reached.

[0043] The weighing device 20 may also be equipped with a human presence sensor that can detect the presence of a person near (mainly in front of) the weighing device 20. The weighing device 20 may also be equipped with a notification unit (signpost) with a light-emitting unit. The weighing device 20 may call a store clerk by the notification unit (light emission from the light-emitting unit) instead of or in addition to sending a store clerk call notification.

[0044] (Information stored in the memory unit 22 by the weighing device 20) The weighing device 20 stores a product file (also referred to as a product master) related to products sold by weight. The product file includes, for example, data items such as product identification information that identifies the product sold by weight, the product name of the product sold by weight, and the unit price. The weighing device 20 may receive and store product files from external devices (such as cash registers installed in the store, management devices that manage cash registers, store controllers, and servers located outside the store).

[0045] The weighing device 20 stores a store-provided container file related to store-provided containers. The store-provided container file includes, for example, data items such as product identification information that identifies the store-provided container, the type of provision (sale (sell-out), deposit), the provision price (sales price, deposit amount), and weight. The weighing device 20 may receive and store the store-provided container file from an external device.

[0046] As explained in "Basic flow of a transaction for purchasing bulk merchandise using a personal container," the weighing device 20 stores a password linked to the registration information (tare information) of one or more personal containers. Based on predetermined conditions, the weighing device 20 deletes (erases) a password stored in association with the registration information of one or more personal containers. The weighing device 20 may also delete (erase) a password along with the registration information of one or more personal containers stored in association with the password.

[0047] The above-mentioned information is an example, and the weighing device 20 may store information other than the above-mentioned information.

[0048] 3 to 15 are display examples of the weighing device 20 (display examples on the display unit 26). Specifically, FIGS. 3 to 15 show display examples in a transaction in which a customer A purchases a commodity sold by weight using his or her own container. Hereinafter, a commodity sold by weight will be simply referred to as a commodity.

[0049] (Example of display when purchasing one item) First, we will explain display examples when customer A purchases one type of product. Figures 3(A) to 7(B) are display examples when customer A purchases one type of product. In other words, when customer A purchases one type of product, the weighing device 20 transitions the screen in the following order: Figure 3(A) → Figure 3(B) → Figure 3(C) → Figure 4(A) → Figure 4(B) → Figure 4(C) → Figure 5(A) → Figure 5(B) → Figure 5(C) → Figure 6(A) → Figure 6(B) → Figure 6(C) → Figure 7(A) → Figure 7(B). Of Figures 3(A) to 7(B), Figures 3(A) to 4(C) (or Figures 3(A) to 5(A)) are display examples for registering one my-container for holding one type of product. Figures 5(A) to 7(B) (or Figures 5(B) to 7(B)) are display examples of a scene in which one type of product is weighed and a product label is printed. It is assumed that customer A purchases Travani salt (salt flowers) with a unit price of 200 yen (100g) as one type of product.

[0050] When the weighing device 20 is on standby (standby state, waiting for customers), it displays a standby screen (initial screen, start screen) GA10 as shown in Figure 3(A). The standby screen GA10 has a numeric display area HR1. This is the same for the other screens. The numeric display area HR1 has, from left to right, a tare weight display field, a weight display field, a unit price display field, and a sales price display field.

[0051] The leftmost tare weight display field displays the weight of the tare weight, which is the weight (tare weight + purchase weight of the item) of the item (tare weight + item) placed on platform 23a. Specifically, before a tare weight is subtracted when weighing an item and issuing a product label for that item (when a tare weight is placed on platform 23a and the tare weight placed on platform 23a has not been specified), weighing device 20 displays "0 (g)" in the tare weight display field (it does not have to display anything). Furthermore, after a tare weight is subtracted when weighing an item and issuing a product label for that item (when a tare weight is placed on platform 23a and the tare weight placed on platform 23a has been specified), weighing device 20 displays the weight of the tare weight (tare weight) identified as the tare weight placed on platform 23a in the tare weight display field. When registering your own container, the product is not weighed (no tare is performed), so the weighing device 20 displays "0 (g)" in the tare display field (it is not necessary to display anything).

[0052] The weight display field second from the left is a display field that displays the weight (tare weight + purchased weight of the product) of the items (tare weight + product) placed on platform 23a, or the weight of the product (purchased weight of the product) out of the weight (tare weight + purchased weight of the product) of the items (tare weight + product) placed on platform 23a. Specifically, before a tare is subtracted when weighing a product and issuing a product label for that product, weighing device 20 displays the weight of the items (tare weight + product) placed on platform 23a in the weight display field. After a tare is subtracted when weighing a product and issuing a product label for that product, weighing device 20 displays the weight of the product placed on platform 23a in the weight display field. Note that if an empty container is placed on platform 23a when registering a container, weighing device 20 displays the weight of the item (container) placed on platform 23a in the weight display field.

[0053] The third unit price display field from the left is a display field that displays the unit price of the product placed on platform 23a. Specifically, before the product is identified (selected) when weighing the product and issuing a product label for that product (when the product in a container is placed on platform 23a and the product placed on platform 23a has not been identified), weighing device 20 displays "0 (yen / 100g)" in the unit price display field (it does not have to display anything). Furthermore, after the product is identified when weighing the product and issuing a product label for that product (when the product in a container is placed on platform 23a and the product placed on platform 23a has been identified), weighing device 20 displays the unit price of the product identified as the product placed on platform 23a in the unit price display field. When registering a personal container, the product is not weighed, so the weighing device 20 displays "0 (yen / 100g)" in the unit price display field (it is not necessary to display anything).

[0054] The rightmost sales price display column is a display column that displays the sales price (price for the purchased weight) of the product placed on platform 23a. Specifically, when a tare is subtracted and the product is identified when weighing a product and issuing a product label for that product (when a product placed in a container is placed on platform 23a and the container and product placed on platform 23a are identified), weighing device 20 displays the sales price of the product identified as the product placed on platform 23a in the sales price display column. Therefore, before the container and product are identified when weighing a product and issuing a product label for that product (when the container placed on platform 23a has not been identified or the product placed on platform 23a has not been identified), weighing device 20 displays "0 (yen)" in the sales price display column (it is not necessary to display anything). When registering a personal container, the weighing device 20 displays "0 (yen)" in the sales price display field because the product is not weighed (it is not necessary to display anything).

[0055] The standby screen GA10 also displays a message MS40 instructing (guiding) the user to place the product (the product placed in the container) in the center of the scale (platform 23a), and an image GA60 showing the product being placed in the center of the scale. The standby screen GA10 also displays a My Container Registration Start button BT70 that is operated (touched) to start the process of registering a my container (the process of storing the container information for the my container). The standby screen GA10 also displays a store clerk call button BT91 at the bottom. When the store clerk call button BT91 is operated, the weighing device 20 executes a store clerk call process (for example, sending a store clerk call notification and illuminating the light-emitting unit).

[0056] On the standby screen GA10, if customer A wants to register his / her own container, he / she operates the My Container Registration Start button BT70. If customer A wants to weigh the product and issue a product label, he / she simply places the product (in its container) on the platform 23a. If customer A brings his / her own container with him / her, he / she first registers his / her own container (before putting the product in his / her own container), then he / she puts the desired product in his / her registered container, and weighs the product in his / her registered container. In other words, customer A first operates the My Container Registration Start button BT70 on the standby screen GA10 of FIG. 3(A).

[0057] When customer A operates the my container registration start button BT70 on the standby screen GA10 in Fig. 3(A), the weighing device 20 displays the my container weighing instruction screen GA20 as shown in Fig. 3(B). The my container weighing instruction screen GA20 displays a message MS41 instructing the user to place an empty my container on the scale, and an image GA61 showing the empty my container being placed on the scale. The my container weighing instruction screen GA20 in Fig. 3(B) also has a my container registration information display area HR2 (specifically, a my container registration information display area HR2-1 corresponding to the first my container). The my container registration information display area HR2 of the my container registration instruction screen GA21 (FIG. 3(C)) after placing a my container, which will be described later, displays the weight of the my container and a registration button BT73 that is operated to register the my container with that weight. However, the my container registration information display area HR2 of the my container weighing instruction screen GA20 before placing the my container does not display the weight or the registration button BT73. In addition, a back button BT90 and a store clerk call button BT91 are located at the bottom of the my container weighing instruction screen GA20. When the back button BT90 is operated, the screen transitions to the previous screen (the standby screen GA10 in FIG. 3(A)) of the screen in question (the my container weighing instruction screen GA20 may transition to the previous screen via a confirmation screen asking whether or not to return to the previous screen).

[0058] When customer A places an empty my container on the platform 23a on the my container weighing instruction screen GA20 in FIG. 3(B) (when the weight value stabilizes), the weighing device 20 displays the my container registration instruction screen GA21 as shown in FIG. 3(C). The my container registration instruction screen GA21 displays a message MS42 instructing the customer to operate the registration button BT73 and an image GA62 showing the empty my container placed on the scale. The my container registration instruction screen GA21 also has a my container registration information display area HR2 (my container registration information display area HR2-1). The my container registration information display area HR2-1 of the my container registration instruction screen GA21 displays the weight value of the my container (the first my container) "50 (g)," and the registration button BT73 is also displayed. The back button BT90 and the store clerk call button BT91 are also located at the bottom of the my container registration instruction screen GA21. When the back button BT90 is operated, the screen transitions to the previous screen (my container measurement instruction screen GA20 in FIG. 3(B)), but it may also transition to the standby screen GA10 in FIG. 3(A).

[0059] The weighing device 20 also captures an image of the container placed on the platform 23a. For example, the weighing device 20 captures an image of the container when the weight is stable (while the container registration instruction screen GA21 is displayed). If the image of the container is not captured properly because customer A (customer A's hand, etc.) gets in the way, the weighing device 20 may capture an image of the container multiple times until the image of the container is captured properly. Whether the image of the container has been captured properly may be determined, for example, by image recognition.

[0060] When customer A operates the registration button BT73 on the my container registration instruction screen GA21 of FIG. 3(C), the weighing device 20 displays the my container weighing completion screen GA22 as shown in FIG. 4(A). The my container weighing completion screen GA22 displays a message MS43 instructing the customer to remove the container from the scale, and an image GA63 showing the container being removed from the scale. In addition, a store clerk call button BT91 and a cancel button BT92 are located at the bottom of the my container weighing completion screen GA22. When the cancel button BT92 is operated, the process (registration of my container) is canceled, and the screen transitions to the standby screen GA10 of FIG. 3(A) (it is also possible to transition to the standby screen GA10 via a confirmation screen asking whether to cancel).

[0061] When customer A removes his / her container from the platform 23a on the my-container weighing completion screen GA22 in FIG. 4(A), the weighing device 20 displays a my-container registration completion instruction screen GA23 as shown in FIG. 4(B). The my-container registration completion instruction screen GA23 displays a message MS44 instructing the customer to operate a registration completion button BT77 (described below). The my-container registration completion instruction screen GA23 also includes a my-container registration information display area HR2 (my-container registration information display area HR2-1). The my-container registration information display area HR2-1 of the my-container registration completion instruction screen GA23 displays a captured image GA64 of the my-container (first my-container), an image enlargement button BT74, the weight of the my-container "50 (g)," and a delete button BT75. As described above, the captured image GA64 is an image (e.g., a thumbnail image displayed in a reduced size) captured when the my-container was placed on the platform 23a. The image enlargement button BT74 is a button that is operated when enlarging and displaying the captured image GA64 (for example, displaying it at normal size on a pop-up screen). The delete button BT75 is a button that is operated when deleting (erasing) the registration information for that my container (specifically, the weight value and the captured image GA64). The my container registration completion instruction screen GA23 also displays an add button BT76 and a registration completion button BT77. The add button BT76 is a button that is operated when adding to the registration of my container (that is, when registering another my container). The registration completion button BT77 is a button that is operated when completing the registration of my container. At the bottom of the my container registration completion instruction screen GA23, a store clerk call button BT91 and a cancel button BT92 are also arranged. When the cancel button BT92 is operated, the process (registration of my container) is canceled, and the screen transitions to the standby screen GA10 of FIG. 3(A) (the screen may transition to the standby screen GA10 via a confirmation screen for whether to cancel).

[0062] When customer A operates the delete button BT75 on the my container registration completion instruction screen GA23 in Fig. 4(B), the weighing device 20 deletes the registration information for that my container and transitions to the my container weighing instruction screen GA20 in Fig. 3(B) (it may also transition to the my container weighing instruction screen GA20 via a confirmation screen asking whether to delete). Note that when customer A operates the delete button BT75 on the my container registration completion instruction screen GA23 in Fig. 4(B), the weighing device 20 may delete the registration information for that my container and transition to the standby screen GA10 in Fig. 3(A).

[0063] When customer A operates the registration completion button BT77 on the my container registration completion instruction screen GA23 of FIG. 4(B), the weighing device 20 displays the password setting screen GA24 as shown in FIG. 4(C). Note that the password setting screen GA24 of FIG. 4(C) shows the password setting screen GA24 in a state where customer A has set (input) "12" as the password. The password setting screen GA24 displays a message MS45 instructing the user to set a password. The password setting screen GA24 also has a password setting display area HR3 that receives a password setting and displays the accepted password. In addition to numeric buttons and a clear button, the password setting display area HR3 also displays a confirm button BT78 that is operated to confirm the password setting. Furthermore, a back button BT90, a store clerk call button BT91, and a cancel button BT92 are located at the bottom of the password setting screen GA24.

[0064] When customer A operates the Confirm button BT78 on the password setting screen GA24 of Fig. 4(C), the weighing device 20 displays the My Container Registration Completion screen GA25 as shown in Fig. 5(A). The My Container Registration Completion screen GA25 displays a message MS46 instructing the customer to fill their desired product(s) into their own container (registered My Container) and bring it over, as well as an image GA65 showing the desired product(s) being filled into their own container. In addition, a store clerk call button BT91 is located at the bottom of the My Container Registration Completion screen GA25.

[0065] Following the my container registration completion screen GA25 of Fig. 5(A), the weighing device 20 displays the standby screen GA10 as shown in Fig. 5(B). For example, the weighing device 20 displays the standby screen GA10 when a predetermined time (e.g., 5 seconds) has elapsed since the my container registration completion screen GA25 of Fig. 5(A) began to be displayed. Furthermore, the weighing device 20 may display the standby screen GA10 when it no longer detects the presence of a person ahead after displaying the my container registration completion screen GA25 (or when a predetermined time (e.g., 2 seconds) has elapsed since it no longer detected the presence of a person).

[0066] As a result, one of customer A's personal containers is registered and linked to one password. In other words, based on the operation of the Confirm button BT78 on the password setting screen GA24 of Fig. 4(C), the weighing device 20 stores the tare weight information of the personal container (weight value "50 (g)", captured image GA64) displayed in the personal container registration information display area HR2-1 of the personal container registration completion instruction screen GA23 of Fig. 4(B) linked to the password "12" set on the password setting screen GA24 of Fig. 4(C).

[0067] Customer A moves to the display container of the desired product (Travani salt), removes the desired amount of the desired product from the display container, and places it in his / her registered container. Customer A returns to the weighing device 20, and on the standby screen GA10, places the product (the product in his / her registered container) on the platform 23a.

[0068] When customer A places a product (a product placed in a registered "my container") on platform 23a on standby screen GA10 in FIG. 5(B), weighing device 20 displays container type selection screen GA30 as shown in FIG. 5(C). A message MS47 is displayed on container type selection screen GA30, prompting the user to select (specify) the type of container placed (store-provided container or my container). Also displayed on container type selection screen GA30 are a store-provided container (purchase / deposit container) button BT80 and a my container button BT81. The store-provided container button BT80 is a button operated when selecting a store-provided container (when a product placed in a store-provided container is placed on platform 23a). The my container button BT81 is a button operated when selecting a my container (when a product placed in a my container is placed on platform 23a). Additionally, a back button BT90 and a store clerk call button BT91 are arranged at the bottom of the container type selection screen GA30.

[0069] When customer A operates the My Container button BT81 on the container type selection screen GA30 of FIG. 5(C), the weighing device 20 displays the password entry screen GA31 as shown in FIG. 6(A). The password entry screen GA31 of FIG. 6(A) shows the password entry screen GA31 in a state where customer A has entered "12" as the password. Customer A enters the password "12" that he set on the password setting screen GA24 of FIG. 4(C). The password entry screen GA31 displays a message MS48 instructing the user to enter a password. The password entry screen GA31 also includes a password entry display area HR4 that receives and displays the entered password. The password entry display area HR4 displays numeric buttons, a clear button, and a confirm button BT82 that is operated to confirm the entered password. The bottom of the password entry screen GA31 also includes a back button BT90, a store clerk call button BT91, and a cancel button BT92.

[0070] When customer A operates the Confirm button BT82 on the password entry screen GA31 in FIG. 6(A), the weighing device 20 displays the container selection screen GA32 as shown in FIG. 6(B). The container selection screen GA32 displays a message MS49 instructing the user to select (specify) the placed my container (registered my container). The container selection screen GA32 also has a my container registration information display area HR2 (my container registration information display area HR2-1). The my container registration information display area HR2-1 on the container selection screen GA32 displays a captured image GA64 of the my container (first my container), an image enlargement button BT74, the weight of the my container "50 (g)", and a selection button BT83. That is, a Delete button BT75 is displayed in the my container registration information display area HR2 of the my container registration completion instruction screen GA23 of Fig. 4(B), but a Select button BT83 is displayed in the my container registration information display area HR2 of the container selection screen GA32 of Fig. 6(B). The Select button BT83 is a button operated when selecting the my container. Also, a Back button BT90, a Call a store clerk button BT91, and a Cancel button BT92 are arranged at the bottom of the container selection screen GA32.

[0071] When a password is entered on the password entry screen GA31 and the Confirm button BT82 is operated, the weighing device 20 displays one or more my containers (i.e., registration information for one or more my containers) that are registered in association with that password on the container selection screen GA32. In the scene from Figure 6(A) to Figure 6(B), because the password "12" was entered on the password entry screen GA31 in Figure 6(A) and the Confirm button BT82 was operated, the weighing device 20 displays the registration information (weight value, captured image) for one my container that is registered in association with the password "12" in one my container registration information display area HR2 (my container registration information display area HR2-1) on the container selection screen GA32 in Figure 6(B).

[0072] If customer A enters an incorrect password on the password entry screen GA31 of Fig. 6(A), the original information will not be displayed on the container selection screen GA32 of Fig. 6(B). For example, if the password entered by customer A is not customer A's password but the password of a customer other than customer A (if the password entered by customer A is stored in association with the registration information of the my container of a customer other than customer A), the weighing device 20 will display the registration information of the my container of the customer other than customer A on the container selection screen GA32 of Fig. 6(B). Because the registration information of the my container of another customer is displayed in the my container registration information display area HR2 on the container selection screen GA32 of Fig. 6(B), customer A operates the back button BT90 to return to the password entry screen GA31 of Fig. 6(A) and enter the correct password. On the other hand, if the password entered by customer A is neither customer A's password nor the password of a customer other than customer A (if the password entered by customer A is not stored in association with any customer's personal container registration information), the weighing device 20 will, for example, notify the customer of an error on the password entry screen GA31 in Figure 6(A) and instruct the customer to enter a different password.

[0073] When customer A operates the selection button BT83 in the my container registration information display area HR2-1 on the container selection screen GA32 of FIG. 6(B), the weighing device 20 displays the product selection screen GA33 as shown in FIG. 6(C). The product selection screen GA33 displays product buttons BT84 (product buttons BT84-1 to BT84-4) corresponding to each product, an arrow button BT85 operated to display product buttons BT84 on other pages, and a message MS50 instructing the user to operate (touch) the product button BT84. The product buttons BT84 corresponding to each product displayed and sold in the bulk sales area are displayed on one of the pages of the product selection screen GA33 (one of the three pages in this example). Also, a back button BT90, a store clerk call button BT91, a category search button BT93, and a number search button BT94 are arranged at the bottom of the product selection screen GA33. The category search button BT93 and number search button BT94 are buttons that are operated when searching for a product (product button) by category or number.

[0074] Since customer A has placed Travani salt on the platform 23a (put it in his / her own container), he / she operates the product button BT84-1 (the product button for Travani salt) on the product selection screen GA33 of FIG. 6(C).

[0075] When customer A operates the product button BT84-1 on the product selection screen GA33 of Fig. 6(C), the weighing device 20 displays the product label issuance instruction screen GA34 as shown in Fig. 7(A). The product label issuance instruction screen GA34 displays a print button BT86, which is operated to issue a product label, and a message MS51 instructing the user to operate the print button BT86. In addition, a back button BT90, a call clerk button BT91, and a cancel button BT92 are arranged at the bottom of the product label issuance instruction screen GA34.

[0076] When customer A operates the print button BT86 on the product label issuance instruction screen GA34 in Figure 7(A), the weighing device 20 issues a product label for the product (Travani salt) and displays the product label issuance completion screen GA35 as shown in Figure 7(B). The product label issuance completion screen GA35 displays a message MS52 instructing the customer to affix the product label to a container (a registered personal container containing Travani salt) and an image GA65 showing the product label being affixed to the container. In addition, a store clerk call button BT91 is located at the bottom of the product label issuance completion screen GA35.

[0077] When customer A removes his / her container from platform 23a on product label issuance completion screen GA35 of FIG. 7(B), weighing device 20 displays standby screen GA10 as shown in FIG. 7(C).

[0078] (Example of display when purchasing two or more items) Next, we will explain display examples when purchasing two or more types of products (for example, four types of products). Figures 3(A) to 4(B) and 8(A) to 15(B) are display examples when customer A purchases four types of products. In other words, when customer A purchases four types of products, the weighing device 20 transitions the screens in the following order: Figure 3(A) → Figure 3(B) → Figure 3(C) → Figure 4(A) → Figure 4(B) → Figure 8(A) → Figure 8(B) → Figure 8(C) → Figure 9(A) → Figure 9(B) → Figure 9(C), ..., Figure 14(A) → Figure 14(B) → Figure 14(C) → Figure 15(A) → Figure 15(B). Of Figures 3(A) to 4(B) and Figures 8(A) to 15(B), Figures 3(A) to 4(B) and Figures 8(A) to 10(A) (or Figures 3(A) to 4(B) and Figures 8(A) to 10(B)) are display examples of a scene in which four personal containers each containing four types of products are registered. Figures 10(B) to 15(B) (or Figures 10(C) to 15(B)) are display examples of a scene in which four types of products are weighed and product labels are printed for each (up to the scene in which the third product is selected). It is assumed that Customer A purchases the four types of products, including Travani salt at a unit price of 200 yen / 100g, dried mangoes at a unit price of 500 yen / 100g, and others.

[0079] The flow up to the end of weighing the first of the four my containers (FIGS. 3(A) to 4(B)) has already been explained, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0080] After finishing weighing his first container (50g), customer A operates the add button BT76 on the my container registration completion instruction screen GA23 of FIG. 4(B) to start weighing his second container.

[0081] When customer A operates the add button BT76 on the my container registration completion instruction screen GA23 in Fig. 4(B), the weighing device 20 displays the my container weighing instruction screen GA20 as shown in Fig. 8(A). The my container weighing instruction screen GA20 in Fig. 3(B) has a my container registration information display area HR2-1 corresponding to the first my container, while the my container weighing instruction screen GA20 in Fig. 8(A) has a my container registration information display area HR2-2 corresponding to the second my container.

[0082] When customer A places a second empty my container on platform 23a on my container weighing instruction screen GA20 in Fig. 8(A) (when the weight value has stabilized), weighing device 20 displays my container registration instruction screen GA21 as shown in Fig. 8(B). The my container registration information display area HR2-2 on my container registration instruction screen GA21 in Fig. 8(B) displays the weight value of that my container (second my container) of "6 (g)", and the registration button BT73 is displayed.

[0083] When customer A operates the registration button BT73 on the my container registration instruction screen GA21 of FIG. 8(B), the weighing device 20 displays the my container weighing completion screen GA22 as shown in FIG. 8(C).

[0084] When customer A removes his / her own container (second my container) from platform 23a on my / her my / her container weighing completion screen GA22 in Fig. 8(C), weighing device 20 displays my / her container registration completion instruction screen GA23 as shown in Fig. 9(A). My / her container registration completion instruction screen GA23 in Fig. 4(B) at the time when the weighing of the first my container is completed has my / her container registration information display area HR2-1 corresponding to the first my container, while my / her container registration completion instruction screen GA23 in Fig. 9(A) at the time when the weighing of the second my container is completed has my / her container registration information display area HR2-1 corresponding to the first my container and my / her container registration information display area HR2-2 corresponding to the second my container.

[0085] When Customer A has finished weighing his / her second container (My Container Registration Completion Instruction Screen GA23 in Figure 9(A)), he / she can confirm or delete the second container, as well as the first container. In other words, customer A can check the captured image GA64 of the second my container in the my container registration information display area HR2-2 (by operating the image enlargement button BT74 in the my container registration information display area HR2-2 to enlarge the captured image GA64) and delete the registration information of the second my container (the weight of the second my container "6 (g)" and the captured image GA64 of the second my container) by operating the delete button BT75 in the my container registration information display area HR2-2, and can also check the captured image GA64 of the first my container in the my container registration information display area HR2-1 (by operating the image enlargement button BT74 in the my container registration information display area HR2-1 to enlarge the captured image GA64) and delete the registration information of the first my container (the weight of the first my container "50 (g)" and the captured image GA64 of the first my container) by operating the delete button BT75 in the my container registration information display area HR2-1.

[0086] After finishing weighing his second container (6 g), customer A operates the add button BT76 on the my container registration completion instruction screen GA23 of FIG. 9(A) to start weighing his third container.

[0087] When customer A operates the add button BT76 on the my container registration completion instruction screen GA23 in FIG. 9(A), the weighing device 20 displays the my container weighing instruction screen GA20, just as in the case of the second my container. When customer A places the third empty my container (123(g)) on the platform 23a on the my container weighing instruction screen GA20, the weighing device 20 displays the my container registration instruction screen GA21. When customer A operates the register button BT73 on the my container registration instruction screen GA21, the weighing device 20 displays the my container weighing completion screen GA22. When customer A removes the my container (third my container) from the platform 23a on the my container weighing completion screen GA22, the weighing device 20 displays the my container registration completion instruction screen GA23, as shown in FIG. 9(B).

[0088] The my container registration completion instruction screen GA23 in Fig. 9(B) at the time when the third my container has been weighed has my container registration information display areas HR2-1 to HR2-3 corresponding to the first to third my containers, respectively. Therefore, when customer A has finished weighing the third my container (my container registration completion instruction screen GA23 in Fig. 9(B)), he or she can confirm or delete each of the first to third my containers.

[0089] After weighing his third container (123g), customer A operates the add button BT76 on the my container registration completion instruction screen GA23 shown in Figure 9(B) to start weighing his fourth container. Figure 9(C) shows the my container registration completion instruction screen GA23 at the time when he has finished weighing his fourth container (77(g)).

[0090] The my container registration completion instruction screen GA23 in Fig. 9(C) at the time when the fourth my container has been weighed has my container registration information display areas HR2-1 to HR2-4 corresponding to the first to fourth my containers, respectively. Therefore, when customer A has finished weighing the fourth my container (my container registration completion instruction screen GA23 in Fig. 9(C)), he or she can confirm or delete each of the first to fourth my containers.

[0091] When customer A operates the registration completion button BT77 on the my container registration completion instruction screen GA23 in Figure 9(C), the weighing device 20 displays the password setting screen GA24 as shown in Figure 10(A). Note that the password setting screen GA24 in Figure 10(A) shows the password setting screen GA24 in a state where customer A has set (input) "12" as the password.

[0092] When customer A operates the Confirm button BT78 on the password setting screen GA24 in Fig. 10(A), the weighing device 20 displays the My Container Registration Completion screen GA25 as shown in Fig. 10(B). Note that the My Container Registration Completion screen GA25 in Fig. 10(B) may also display a message MS46 instructing the customer to fill their desired multiple products into their own container (each of their registered My Containers) and bring it over, or an image GA65 showing the desired multiple products being filled into their own container.

[0093] Following the my container registration completion screen GA25 of Fig. 10(B), the weighing device 20 displays the standby screen GA10 as shown in Fig. 10(C). For example, the weighing device 20 displays the standby screen GA10 when a predetermined time (e.g., 5 seconds) has elapsed since the my container registration completion screen GA25 of Fig. 10(B) began to be displayed. Furthermore, the weighing device 20 may display the standby screen GA10 when it no longer detects the presence of a person ahead after displaying the my container registration completion screen GA25 (or when a predetermined time (e.g., 2 seconds) has elapsed since it no longer detected the presence of a person).

[0094] In this way, customer A's four personal containers are registered and linked to one password. In other words, based on the operation of the Confirm button BT78 on the password setting screen GA24 of Fig. 10(A), the weighing device 20 stores the tare weight information of the first personal container displayed in the personal container registration information display area HR2-1, the tare weight information of the second personal container displayed in the personal container registration information display area HR2-2, the tare weight information of the third personal container displayed in the personal container registration information display area HR2-3, and the tare weight information of the fourth personal container displayed in the personal container registration information display area HR2-4 on the personal container registration completion instruction screen GA23 of Fig. 9(C), linked to the password "12" set on the password setting screen GA24 of Fig. 10(A).

[0095] Customer A moves to the display container of each desired product (Travani salt, dried mango, etc.), takes out the desired amount of each product from each display container, and places it in one of his / her registered "my containers." Customer A returns to the weighing device 20, and on the standby screen GA10, places the products (the products in their registered "my containers") on the platform 23a in order.

[0096] When customer A places a product (a product placed in a registered personal container) on platform 23a on standby screen GA10 in Fig. 10(C), weighing device 20 displays container type selection screen GA30 as shown in Fig. 11(A). It is assumed that customer A places Travani salt in the first registered personal container (50 g) and places it on platform 23a.

[0097] When customer A operates the My Container button BT81 on the container type selection screen GA30 in FIG. 11(A), the weighing device 20 displays the password entry screen GA31 as shown in FIG. 11(B). Note that the password entry screen GA31 in FIG. 11(B) shows the password entry screen GA31 in a state where customer A has entered "12" as the password. Customer A enters the password "12" that he set on the password setting screen GA24 in FIG. 10(A).

[0098] When customer A operates the confirm button BT82 on the password entry screen GA31 of FIG. 11(B), the weighing device 20 displays the container selection screen GA32 as shown in FIG. 11(C).

[0099] As described above, when a password is entered on the password entry screen GA31 and the Confirm button BT82 is operated, the weighing device 20 displays one or more my containers (registration information for one or more my containers) that are registered in association with that password on the container selection screen GA32. In the scene from Figure 11(B) to Figure 11(C), because the password "12" was entered on the password entry screen GA31 in Figure 11(B) and the Confirm button BT82 was operated, the weighing device 20 displays the registration information (measurement values, captured images) for each of the four my containers that are registered in association with the password "12" in each of the four my container registration information display areas HR2 (my container registration information display area HR2-1, my container registration information display area HR2-2, my container registration information display area HR2-3, my container registration information display area HR2-4) on the container selection screen GA32 in Figure 11(C).

[0100] If customer A enters an incorrect password on the password input screen GA31 in Figure 11(B), the original information will not be displayed on the container selection screen GA32 in Figure 11(C), just as if customer A entered an incorrect password on the password input screen GA31 in Figure 6(A).

[0101] Customer A places the first registered my container (50 g) on ​​the platform 23a, and therefore operates the selection button BT83 of the my container registration information display area HR2-1 on the container selection screen GA32 of FIG. 11(C).

[0102] When customer A operates the selection button BT83 of the my container registration information display area HR2-1 on the container selection screen GA32 of FIG. 11(C), the weighing device 20 displays the product selection screen GA33 as shown in FIG. 12(A).

[0103] Since customer A has placed the Travani salt on the platform 23a, he operates the product button BT84-1 (the Travani salt product button) on the product selection screen GA33 of FIG. 12(A).

[0104] When customer A operates the product button BT84-1 on the product selection screen GA33 of FIG. 12(A), the weighing device 20 displays the product label issuance instruction screen GA34 as shown in FIG. 12(B).

[0105] When customer A operates the print button BT86 on the product label issuance instruction screen GA34 in Figure 12(B), the weighing device 20 issues a product label for the product (Travani salt) and displays the product label issuance completion screen GA35 as shown in Figure 12(C).

[0106] When customer A removes his / her container from platform 23a on the product label issuance completion screen GA35 of Fig. 12(C), the weighing device 20 displays the weighing continuation screen GA36 as shown in Fig. 13(A). That is, the scene in which customer A removes his / her container from platform 23a on the product label issuance completion screen GA35 of Fig. 7(B) indicates that customer A's transaction is complete, so the weighing device 20 displays the standby screen GA10 of Fig. 7(C) when customer A removes his / her container from platform 23a on the product label issuance completion screen GA35 of Fig. 7(B). However, the scene in which customer A removes his / her container from platform 23a on the product label issuance completion screen GA35 of Fig. 12(C) does not indicate that customer A's transaction is complete, so the weighing device 20 displays the weighing continuation screen GA36 of Fig. 13(A) when customer A removes his / her container from platform 23a on the product label issuance completion screen GA35 of Fig. 12(C).

[0107] A more detailed explanation follows. When customer A's personal container is removed from the platform 23a on the product label issuance completion screen GA35, the weighing device 20 determines whether customer A's transaction is complete. The weighing device 20 determines whether customer A's transaction is complete by whether it has issued the same number of product labels as customer A's registered personal containers. In other words, the weighing device 20 determines customer A's transaction is complete when it has issued the same number of product labels as customer A's registered personal containers (when it has issued all of the product labels to be affixed to each registered personal container). It determines customer A's transaction is not complete when it has not issued the same number of product labels as customer A's registered personal containers (when it has not yet issued product labels to be affixed to at least some of the registered personal containers). The number of registered personal containers for customer A is the number of personal containers (personal container registration information) that customer A has registered in association with the password that customer A set for this transaction.

[0108] Therefore, when issuing a product label (when the print button BT86 is operated), the weighing device 20 deletes (erases) the registration information of the my container to which the product label will be affixed (i.e., the my container selected on the container selection screen GA32) from the registration information of one or more my containers stored and linked to the password, and when the product label is affixed to the my container (when customer A's my container is removed from the platform 23a on the product label issuance completion screen GA35), it checks whether there is any registration information of the my container stored and linked to the password, and if there is no registration information of the my container stored and linked to the password (if all has been deleted), it displays the standby screen GA10, and if there is even one registration information of the my container stored and linked to the password, it displays the weighing continuation screen GA36.

[0109] The weighing device 20 may set a completion flag in the registration information of the my container to which the product label is to be affixed, rather than deleting (erasing) the registration information of the my container to which the product label is to be affixed. In other words, when issuing a product label, the weighing device 20 may set a completion flag in the registration information of the my container to which the product label is to be affixed, from among the registration information of one or more my containers stored and linked to the password, and when the product label is to be affixed to the my container, it may check whether the completion flag is set for one or more my containers stored and linked to the password, and display the standby screen GA10 if the completion flag is set for all of the registration information of the my containers stored and linked to the password, and display the weighing continuation screen GA36 if the completion flag is not set for at least one of the my containers stored and linked to the password.

[0110] The weighing continuation screen GA36 displays a message MS53 instructing (guiding) the user to place the product (the product placed in the container) and an image GA60 showing the product being placed, in case of continuing weighing. A store clerk call button BT91 and a cancel button BT92 are also located at the bottom of the weighing continuation screen GA36. If customer A does not want to continue weighing, he or she operates the cancel button BT92. When the cancel button BT92 is operated, the process (purchase of the product) is canceled, and the screen transitions to the standby screen GA10 (the screen may transition to the standby screen GA10 via a confirmation screen for whether to cancel). If customer A has registered four my containers but will only purchase one type of product (the other three registered my containers will not be used), he or she operates the cancel button BT92 on the weighing continuation screen GA36 shown in FIG. 13(A).

[0111] When customer A places a product (a product placed in a registered personal container) on the platform 23a on the weighing continuation screen GA36 of Figure 13(A), the weighing device 20 displays the container selection screen GA32 as shown in Figure 13(B).

[0112] In addition, when multiple my containers are registered, they do not necessarily have to be placed in the order of registration. Assume that customer A fills his fourth registered my container (77 g) with dried mango and places it on platform 23 a.

[0113] Furthermore, in terms of screen transitions, when placing the first product, after placing the first product, the user confirms the container type and password, and after confirming the container type and password, the user is prompted to select his / her own container (standby screen GA10 in FIG. 10(C) → container type selection screen GA30 in FIG. 11(A) → password entry screen GA31 in FIG. 11(B) → container selection screen GA32 in FIG. 11(C)), but when placing the second or subsequent product, after placing each subsequent product, the user is prompted to select his / her own container without confirming the container type or password (continued weighing screen GA36 in FIG. 13(A) → container selection screen GA32 in FIG. 13(B)). In other words, because the weighing device 20 has already confirmed the container type and password when the first product is placed, when the second or subsequent product is placed, the user is prompted to select his / her own container without confirming the container type or password.

[0114] The container selection screen GA32 in Fig. 13(B) has three my container registration information display areas HR2 (my container registration information display area HR2-2, my container registration information display area HR2-3, my container registration information display area HR2-4). In other words, the weighing device 20 displays the registration information (weight values, captured images) of the four my containers registered in association with the password "12" other than the my container to which a product label is attached (the first registered my container) (the second registered my container, the third registered my container, and the fourth registered my container) in the three my container registration information display areas HR2 (my container registration information display area HR2-2, my container registration information display area HR2-3, my container registration information display area HR2-4) on the container selection screen GA32 in Fig. 13(B).

[0115] For example, when issuing a product label (when the print button BT86 is operated), the weighing device 20 may delete (erase) the registration information of the my container to which the product label is to be affixed (i.e., the my container selected on the container selection screen GA32) from the registration information of one or more my containers stored in association with the password, and when a product is placed on the platform 23a on the weighing continuation screen GA36 (when the container selection screen GA32 is displayed), the registration information of the my container stored in association with the password may be displayed on the container selection screen GA32.

[0116] The weighing device 20 may set a completion flag in the registration information of the my container to which the product label is to be affixed, rather than deleting (erasing) the registration information of the my container to which the product label is to be affixed. In other words, when issuing a product label, the weighing device 20 may set a completion flag in the registration information of the my container to which the product label is to be affixed, from among the registration information of one or more my containers stored and linked to the password, and when a product is placed on the platform 23a on the weighing continuation screen GA36, the registration information of the my container for which the completion flag is not set, from among the one or more my containers stored and linked to the password, may be displayed on the container selection screen GA32.

[0117] Customer A places his / her fourth registered container (77g) on ​​the platform 23a, and therefore operates the selection button BT83 of the my container registration information display area HR2-4 on the container selection screen GA32 of FIG. 13(B).

[0118] When customer A operates the selection button BT83 in the my container registration information display area HR2-4 on the container selection screen GA32 in Figure 13(B), the weighing device 20 displays the product selection screen GA33 as shown in Figure 13(C). Because customer A has placed dried mangoes on the platform 23a, customer A operates the product button BT84-2 (the dried mango product button) on the product selection screen GA33 in Figure 13(C).

[0119] When customer A operates the product button BT84-2 on the product selection screen GA33 of FIG. 13(C), the weighing device 20 displays the product label issuance instruction screen GA34 as shown in FIG. 14(A).

[0120] When customer A operates the print button BT86 on the product label issuance instruction screen GA34 in Figure 14(A), the weighing device 20 issues a product label for the product (dried mango) and displays the product label issuance completion screen GA35 as shown in Figure 14(B).

[0121] When customer A removes his / her container from platform 23a on product label issuance completion screen GA35 in Fig. 14(B), weighing device 20 displays weighing continuation screen GA36 as shown in Fig. 14(C). In other words, the scene where customer A removes his / her container from platform 23a on product label issuance completion screen GA35 in Fig. 14(B) does not mark the completion of customer A's transaction, so when customer A removes his / her container from platform 23a on product label issuance completion screen GA35 in Fig. 14(B), weighing device 20 displays weighing continuation screen GA36 in Fig. 14(C).

[0122] Furthermore, if customer A has registered four personal containers but only purchases two types of products (the other two registered personal containers will not be used), he or she will operate the cancel button BT92 on the weighing continuation screen GA36 in Figure 14 (C).

[0123] When customer A places a product (a product placed in a registered personal container) on platform 23a on the weighing continuation screen GA36 in Figure 14(C), weighing device 20 displays container selection screen GA32 as shown in Figure 15(A). It is assumed that customer A places a product (e.g., cashew nuts) in the second registered personal container (6g) and places it on platform 23a this time.

[0124] The container selection screen GA32 in Fig. 15(A) has two my container registration information display areas HR2 (my container registration information display area HR2-2, my container registration information display area HR2-3). That is, the weighing device 20 displays the registration information (weight values, captured images) of the four my containers registered in association with the password "12" other than the my containers to which product labels are attached (the second registered my container and the third registered my container) in the two my container registration information display areas HR2 (my container registration information display area HR2-2, my container registration information display area HR2-3) on the container selection screen GA32 in Fig. 15(A).

[0125] Customer A places the second registered my container (6g) on ​​the platform 23a, and therefore operates the selection button BT83 in the my container registration information display area HR2-2 on the container selection screen GA32 of FIG. 15(A).

[0126] When customer A operates the selection button BT83 in the my container registration information display area HR2-2 on the container selection screen GA32 in Fig. 15(A), the weighing device 20 displays the product selection screen GA33 as shown in Fig. 15(B). Because customer A places cashew nuts on the platform 23a, customer A operates the product button BT84-3 (cashew nuts product button) on the product selection screen GA33 in Fig. 15(B). This is the same as what has already been explained, so further explanation will be omitted.

[0127] (When purchasing products in containers provided by the store) The following describes the case where customer B purchases a product using a store-provided container. Customer B picks up a store-provided container prepared in the weighing area, puts the product in it, and places it on the platform 23a of the weighing device 20, which is displaying the standby screen GA10. In other words, customer B places the product (the product in the store-provided container) without operating the my container registration start button BT70 on the standby screen GA10. Store-provided containers come in two types: purchase containers and deposit containers (multiple sizes may also be prepared). Purchase containers are containers that customer B purchases from store S. Deposit containers are containers loaned to customer B by store S with a deposit. The weight (tare weight) of each store-provided container is known (tare weight can be subtracted once the store-provided container placed on the table is identified).

[0128] When customer B places a product (in a store-provided container) on platform 23a on standby screen GA10, weighing device 20 displays container type selection screen GA30. Customer B operates store-provided container BT80 on container type selection screen GA30.

[0129] When customer B operates a store-provided container BT80 on the container type selection screen GA30, the weighing device 20 displays a screen (not shown) that accepts the selection (designation) of the type of store-provided container (purchase container, deposit container, size, etc.). Customer B selects the store-provided container that is placed on the weighing device 20. The weighing device 20 tare the store-provided container selected by customer B and displays the product selection screen GA33. When customer B selects a product on the product selection screen GA33, the weighing device 20 displays a product label issuance instruction screen GA34 that displays the unit price and sales price of the product, and prints and issues a product label for the product based on the operation of the print button BT86. The weighing device 20 may display the price (sales price, deposit amount) of the store-provided container being purchased or deposited (the store-provided container selected as the placed store-provided container), or may print a product label.

[0130] (Operation mode) The operation mode for executing a series of processes related to registering a my container may be referred to as the my container registration mode, the operation mode for purchasing a product using a my container may be referred to as the my container product purchase mode, and the operation mode for purchasing a product using a store-provided container (purchase container, deposit container) may be referred to as the store-provided container product purchase mode.Furthermore, the my container registration mode may be simply referred to as the container registration mode, and may be referred to as the product purchase mode (or product weighing mode) without distinguishing between the my container product purchase mode and the store-provided container product purchase mode.

[0131] For example, the screen transitions of Figures 3(A) to 4(C) (or Figures 3(A) to 5(A)) and the screen transitions of Figures 3(A) to 4(B) and Figures 8(A) to 10(A) (or Figures 3(A) to 4(B) and Figures 8(A) to 10(B)) are screen transitions in the my container registration mode. Also, the screen transitions of Figures 5(A) to 7(B) (or Figures 5(B) to 7(B)) and the screen transitions of Figures 10(B) to 15(B) (or Figures 10(C) to 15(B)) are screen transitions in the my container product purchase mode.

[0132] (Another example of the standby screen) On the standby screen GA10, when weighing a product (a product in a container) (when issuing a product label), the product (a product in a container) is simply placed without operating a button, but the product (a product in a container) may be placed after operating a button. For example, the weighing device 20 may display a standby screen GA11 as shown in FIG. 15(C).

[0133] The standby screen GA11 has a My Container Registration Start button BT71 that is operated when starting the process of registering a my container, and a Product Weighing button BT72 that is operated when weighing a product (a product placed in a my container or a container provided by the store).

[0134] For example, when customer A purchases one type of product with his / her own container (when registering one my container), he / she operates the my container registration start button BT71 on the standby screen GA11 when registering that my container. Similarly, when customer A purchases two or more types of products with his / her own container (when registering two or more my containers), he / she operates the my container registration start button BT71 on the standby screen GA11 when registering the first my container. The screen transitions after customer A operates the my container registration start button BT71 on the standby screen GA11 are the same as the screen transitions after customer A operates the my container registration start button BT70 on the standby screen GA10.

[0135] In addition, when customer A purchases two or more types of products in his / her own container, the standby screen GA10 (standby screen GA11) is not displayed when registering the second or subsequent my container (the screen transitions to the add button BT76 on the my container registration completion instruction screen GA23 → my container weighing instruction screen GA20), but the standby screen GA10 (standby screen GA11) may also be displayed when registering the second or subsequent my container.

[0136] Furthermore, when customer A purchases one type of product in his / her own container (when registering one my container), he / she operates the product weighing button BT72 on the standby screen GA11 and then places the product (the product in a registered my container) when weighing the product. Similarly, when customer A purchases two or more types of products in his / her own container (when registering two or more my containers), he / she operates the product weighing button BT72 on the standby screen GA11 and then places the product (the product in one of the registered my containers) when weighing the first product. The screen transition when customer A operates the product weighing button BT72 on the standby screen GA11 and then places the product is the same as the screen transition when customer A simply places the product on the standby screen GA10.

[0137] In addition, if customer A purchases two or more types of products in his or her own container, the standby screen GA10 (standby screen GA11) will not be displayed when weighing the second or subsequent products (the screen will transition from the product label issuance completion screen GA35 to the weighing continuation screen GA36).

[0138] Furthermore, when customer B purchases a product in a store-provided container, he or she operates the product weighing button BT72 on the standby screen GA11 and then places the product (the product in the store-provided container). The screen transition when customer B places the product after operating the product weighing button BT72 on the standby screen GA11 is the same as the screen transition when customer B simply places the product on the standby screen GA10.

[0139] That is, in a mode in which the standby screen GA10 is displayed, the weighing device 20 enters my container registration mode when the my container registration start button BT70 on the standby screen GA10 is operated, enters store-provided container product purchase mode when a product is placed on the standby screen GA10 and then the store-provided container BT80 on the container type selection screen GA30 is operated, and enters my container product purchase mode when a product is placed on the standby screen GA10 and then the my container button BT81 on the container type selection screen GA30 is operated. Alternatively, the weighing device 20 enters container registration mode when the my container registration start button BT70 on the standby screen GA10 is operated, and enters product purchase mode (product weighing mode) when a product is placed on the standby screen GA10.

[0140] In a mode in which the standby screen GA11 is displayed, the weighing device 20 enters my container registration mode by operating the My Container Registration Start button BT71 on the standby screen GA11, enters store-provided container product purchase mode by operating the Product Weighing button BT72 on the standby screen GA11 → placing a product → operating the Store-Provided Container BT80 on the container type selection screen GA30, and enters my container product purchase mode by operating the Product Weighing button BT72 on the standby screen GA11 → placing a product → operating the My Container button BT81 on the container type selection screen GA30. Alternatively, the weighing device 20 enters container registration mode by operating the My Container Registration Start button BT71 on the standby screen GA11, and enters product purchase mode (product weighing mode) by operating the Product Weighing button BT72 on the standby screen GA11.

[0141] (correctness judgement based on measurement value) The weighing device 20 may determine whether the item was placed correctly based on the weight value. Specifically, the weighing device 20 may issue an error (visual or audio output) if the weight value of the placed item (bag weight + product) is equal to or less than the weight of an unselected, registered, my-container (or the smallest weight my-container if there are multiple my-containers). For example, the weighing device 20 may issue an error if the weight value is equal to or less than 50 g in the situation shown in FIG. 6(B). The weighing device 20 may also issue an error if the weight value is equal to or less than 6 g in the situation shown in FIG. 11(C). The weighing device 20 may also determine whether the item was placed correctly based on the minimum purchase amount. In other words, the weighing device 20 may issue an error if the weight value of the placed item is equal to or less than the weight of an unselected, registered, my-container (or the smallest weight my-container if there are multiple my-containers) plus the minimum purchase amount. For example, if the minimum purchase amount is set to 3 (g), the weighing device 20 may signal an error if the weighed value is 53 (g) or less in the scene of Figure 6 (B), or if the weighed value is 9 (g) or less in the scene of Figure 11 (C).

[0142] The weighing device 20 may determine selectable my containers (or narrow down the selectable my containers) based on the weight of the placed item and the tare weight of the registered my container. The weighing device 20 may also determine selectable my containers based on the weight of the placed item and the tare weight and minimum purchase quantity of the registered my container. For example, in the scene shown in FIG. 13(B), the weighing device 20 may exclude the third registered my container (tare weight: 123 g) from the options. For example, the weighing device 20 may hide or gray out the my container registration information display area HR2-3. Furthermore, if the weight is 50 g in the scene shown in FIG. 13(B), the weighing device 20 may exclude the third registered my container (tare weight: 123 g) and the fourth registered my container (tare weight: 77 g) from the options. For example, the weighing device 20 may hide or gray out the my container registration information display area HR2-3 and the my container registration information display area HR2-4.

[0143] (Image based accuracy judgment) The weighing device 20 may determine whether the container has been placed correctly by using an image (image recognition). Specifically, the weighing device 20 may capture an image of the container placed with the product inside, compare the captured image of the container with the product inside with an image of an unselected, registered container, and determine whether the container placed with the product inside is a registered container. For example, in the scene shown in FIG. 6(B), the weighing device 20 may compare the captured image of the container placed with the product inside with the captured image GA64 of the container in the container registration information display area HR2-1, and determine whether the container placed with the product inside is a registered container. If the weighing device 20 determines that the container placed with the product inside is not a registered container, it issues an error (by displaying or outputting a sound). If there are multiple registered unselected my containers, the weighing device 20 compares the captured image of the my container placed with the product inside with the captured image GA64 of each my container, and if it determines that the my container placed with the product inside is not one of the registered unselected my containers, it notifies an error.

[0144] The weighing device 20 may determine selectable my containers (or narrow down the selectable my containers) based on a captured image of the my containers placed with products inside.

[0145] (Password release (cancellation, deletion)) The weighing device 20 stores passwords in association with the registration information (tare information) of one or more personal containers, but as described above, a password that can be set (used) by a customer is a password that is not stored in association with the registration information of one or more personal containers of other customers. In other words, a two-digit number that a customer can set as a password is a two-digit number that is not stored in association with the registration information of one or more personal containers of other customers. If the two-digit number entered by a customer on the password setting screen GA24 is a two-digit number that is stored in association with the registration information of one or more personal containers of other customers, the weighing device 20 will make the Confirm button BT78 inoperable (a message indicating an input error and prompting the customer to set a different two-digit number may be displayed).

[0146] The two-digit numbers that a customer can set as a password (two-digit numbers that are not stored in association with the registration information of one or more other customers' personal containers) decrease and gradually run out each time a customer registers a personal container, so used two-digit numbers are released for reuse. Since there is a finite number of two-digit numbers (100 numbers from "00" to "99"), if a customer continues to store passwords they have set without erasing them, the number of usable passwords will gradually decrease until there are no usable passwords left, so previously set passwords are erased and released for reuse. In other words, passwords, which are management information, are stored temporarily (until they are erased (released)). That is, the storage of management information in the memory unit 22 is temporary due to release (release means).

[0147] The weighing device 20 stores a password associated with the registration information of one or more personal containers, but under certain conditions, it deletes (erases) the password associated with the registration information of one or more personal containers that it has stored. In other words, the weighing device 20 temporarily stores the password, which is management information, (until it is deleted based on certain conditions). This increases the number of passwords that a customer can set as their password (passwords that are not associated with the registration information of one or more personal containers of other customers and are stored). Note that the weighing device 20 may also delete the password along with the registration information of one or more personal containers that it has stored and that are associated with the password.

[0148] The predetermined condition may be, for example, one or more of (1) to (7). (1) Completion of the transaction The weighing device 20 may delete the password upon completion of the transaction. For example, for a customer who has registered one or more personal containers, the weighing device 20 may delete the password (the password stored in association with the customer's registration information for one or more personal containers) when all product labels to be affixed to the one or more personal containers registered this time (product labels for the last weighed product among the products contained in each of the one or more personal containers registered this time) have been issued (or when a predetermined time (e.g., 10 minutes) has elapsed since this time). Furthermore, for a customer who has registered one or more personal containers this time, the weighing device 20 may set a flag (deletion flag) indicating that the password set by the customer is to be deleted when all product labels to be affixed to the one or more personal containers registered this time have been issued, and then delete the password set by the customer (the password for which the deletion flag is set) at a later time (e.g., every hour, when a new password is set and the remaining number of passwords that can be set reaches a predetermined number, when the store closes, when the store opens, etc.). (2) Time lapse from the time of memory The weighing device 20 deletes the password when a predetermined time (e.g., 30 minutes) has elapsed since the password was stored. In other words, even if the transaction for a customer who has registered one or more personal containers has not been completed (even if all product labels to be affixed to the one or more personal containers registered this time have not been issued), the weighing device 20 deletes the password stored in association with the registration information for the one or more personal containers when a predetermined time has elapsed since the password was stored in association with the registration information for the one or more personal containers. Furthermore, the weighing device 20 may set a flag (deletion flag) indicating that the password is to be deleted when a predetermined time (e.g., 30 minutes) has elapsed since the password was stored, and may delete the password (the password for which the deletion flag has been set) at a later time (e.g., every hour, when a new password is set and the remaining number of passwords that can be set reaches a predetermined number, when the store closes, when the store opens, etc.). (3) Cancellation of transactions The weighing device 20 deletes the password when the transaction is canceled. For example, if a customer who has registered one or more personal containers presses the Cancel button BT92 (e.g., the Cancel button BT92 on the password entry screen GA31, container selection screen GA32, product selection screen GA33, product label issuance instruction screen GA34, or weighing continuation screen GA36), the weighing device 20 may delete the password set by the customer at the time the Cancel button BT92 is pressed (or a predetermined time (e.g., 20 minutes) has elapsed since that time). Furthermore, the weighing device 20 may set a deletion flag when the Cancel button BT92 is pressed, and then delete the password set by the customer (the password for which the deletion flag is set) at a later time (e.g., every hour, when a new password is set and the remaining number of passwords that can be set reaches a predetermined number, when the store closes, when the store reopens, etc.). (4) Power OFF / ON When the weighing device 20 is turned off (or turned on), it deletes the password for which the deletion flag is set (or all passwords). (5) Closing / Opening The weighing device 20 deletes all passwords (or passwords for which the deletion flag is set) at closing time (or at a predetermined timing after closing time). The weighing device 20 may also delete all passwords (or passwords for which the deletion flag is set) at opening time (or at a predetermined timing before opening time). (6) Operation by store clerk The weighing device 20 deletes passwords based on the operation of a store clerk. For example, the store clerk may specify the password to be deleted on a maintenance screen, and the weighing device 20 may delete the password specified by the clerk. The store clerk may also specify all passwords as passwords to be deleted (the weighing device 20 may delete all passwords). Alternatively, the store clerk may perform a deletion operation on the maintenance screen to command the deletion of passwords for which a deletion flag has been set, and the weighing device 20 may delete the passwords for which a deletion flag has been set based on the deletion operation by the clerk. Alternatively, the store clerk may set a deletion flag for a password on the maintenance screen (or specify a password for which a deletion flag should be set), and the weighing device 20 may delete the passwords for which a deletion flag has been set at a later time (for example, every hour, when a new password has been set and the remaining number of passwords that can be set reaches a predetermined number, when the store closes, when the store opens, etc.). (7) Enter the required information When the weighing device 20 receives predetermined information (for example, deletion instruction information sent from a device operated by a store clerk), it deletes the password (or all passwords) for which the deletion flag is set. Furthermore, when the weighing device 20 reads predetermined information (for example, a barcode or two-dimensional code that encodes the deletion instruction information printed on a medium held by the store clerk), it may delete the password (or all passwords) for which the deletion flag is set.

[0149] (Various operations by store staff, etc.) A store clerk may operate the weighing device 20 on behalf of a customer when called by the store clerk call button BT91 or when called by a customer. The store clerk may also operate the weighing device 20 when the customer is not using it (i.e., when it is unoccupied). The weighing device 20 displays a maintenance screen based on the scanning of the store clerk code (management code).

[0150] The weighing device 20 can display the passwords currently set by all customers (passwords stored in the storage unit 22) on the maintenance screen. For example, based on the store clerk's operation on the maintenance screen (or when the maintenance screen is displayed), the weighing device 20 displays all passwords stored in the storage unit 22 (all passwords stored in the storage unit 22 linked to the registration information (tare information) of one or more personal containers) on the maintenance screen. For example, if the password "52" is stored in memory 22 and associated with three pieces of registration information (registration information d for my container d, registration information e for my container e, and registration information f for my container f), the password "09" is stored and associated with one piece of registration information (registration information g for my container g), and the password "34" is stored and associated with two pieces of registration information (registration information h for my container h, and registration information i for my container i), weighing device 20 will display "52," "09," and "34" (displaying all in a list, or displaying each one by pressing the next button, etc.). Weighing device 20 may display the passwords in ascending order ("09," "34," "52") (displaying in a list or displaying each one), or in descending order ("52," "34," "09") (displaying in a list or displaying each one). The weighing device 20 may display the passwords (in a list or one by one) in chronological order (in the order they were stored), or in chronological order (in a list or one by one).

[0151] The weighing device 20 can display registration information (tare information) on the maintenance screen. Specifically, the weighing device 20 displays one or more pieces of registration information linked to a password specified by a store clerk on the maintenance screen. For example, the weighing device 20 may display a registration information display button associated with each password on the maintenance screen, and when one registration information display button is operated, display one or more pieces of registration information linked to the password corresponding to that registration information display button. As an example, the weighing device 20 displays the passwords "52," "09," and "34" and displays the registration information display button near each password. When the registration information display button near the password "52" is operated, the weighing device 20 may display three pieces of registration information (registration information d, registration information e, and registration information f) linked to the password "52", when the registration information display button near the password "09" is operated, it may display one piece of registration information (registration information g) linked to the password "09", and when the registration information display button near the password "34" is operated, it may display two pieces of registration information (registration information h and registration information i) linked to the password "34". Note that the weighing device 20 may display one or more pieces of registration information linked to each of all passwords. For example, from the beginning (without operating the registration information display button, etc.), the weighing device 20 may display the password "52" in association with three pieces of registration information (registration information d, registration information e, registration information f), the password "09" in association with one piece of registration information (registration information g), and the password "34" in association with two pieces of registration information (registration information h, registration information i).

[0152] The weighing device 20 may accept an operation to delete a password (erase it from the storage unit 22) on the maintenance screen. For example, the weighing device 20 may display a delete button associated with each password, and when one of the delete buttons is pressed, delete the password corresponding to that delete button. As an example, the weighing device 20 may display the passwords "52," "09," and "34" (or display the password "52" associated with registered information d, registered information e, and registered information f, display the password "09" associated with registered information g, and display the password "34" associated with registered information h and registered information i), and display a delete button near each password. The weighing device 20 may delete the password "52" when the delete button near the password "52" is operated (or delete registered information d, e, and f along with the password "52"), delete the password "09" when the delete button near the password "09" is operated (or delete registered information g along with the password "09"), and delete the password "34" when the delete button near the password "34" is operated (or delete registered information h and i along with the password "34"). When the delete button is operated, the weighing device 20 may set a delete flag instead of deleting.

[0153] The weighing device 20 may accept an operation to select a password on the maintenance screen. For example, the weighing device 20 may display a password selection button associated with each password. When the weighing device 20 accepts an operation to select a password, it may display one or more pieces of registered information associated with the password, allowing each of the my containers to be selected (for example, as displayed on the container selection screen GA32). As an example, the weighing device 20 may display the passwords "52," "09," and "34" (or display the password "52" associated with registered information d, registered information e, and registered information f, display the password "09" associated with registered information g, and display the password "34" associated with registered information h and registered information i), and display a password selection button near each password. When the password selection button near the password "52" is operated, the weighing device 20 may display registration information d, registration information e, and registration information f so that my container d, my container e, or my container f can be selected, as with the container selection screen GA32; when the password selection button near the password "9" is operated, the weighing device 20 may display registration information g so that my container g can be selected, as with the container selection screen GA32; and when the password selection button near the password "34" is operated, the weighing device 20 may display registration information h and registration information i so that my container h or my container i can be selected, as with the container selection screen GA32.

[0154] That is, under normal circumstances (when operated by a customer), the customer enters their password on the password entry screen GA31, and then the screen transitions to the container selection screen GA32, but during maintenance (when operated by a store clerk), the screen transitions to the container selection screen GA32, where the store clerk selects a password on the maintenance screen (maintenance ends with the transition to the container selection screen GA32). This allows the store clerk to select the password on behalf of the customer, even if the customer forgets the password (management information) that they set, and allows the customer to continue processing thereafter.

[0155] Although the weighing device 20 has been described as temporarily storing a password (deleting the password based on predetermined conditions), the password may be linked to one or more pieces of registration information and stored (saved) as log information (backup information) in addition to the temporarily stored information (information scheduled for deletion; hereinafter, this information may be referred to as transaction information to distinguish it from log information). The log information is accessed by a store clerk (e.g., an operation on a maintenance screen, etc.), but is not accessed by a customer (e.g., an operation on the password entry screen GA31, etc.). The log information may be composed of, for example, a sequence number, a password, and one or more pieces of registration information. The log information may be stored when the user registers a personal container (at the same time as the transaction information), or when the password is deleted from the transaction information.

[0156] Here are some specific examples. (1) Based on the registration operation of my container j by the first customer C (operation of the confirmation button BT78 on the password setting screen GA24), the weighing device 20 stores the password "63" set by customer C and the registration information j (the weight value of my container j, the captured image of my container j) in association with each other as transaction information, and stores the sequence number "YYYYMMDD001", the password "63" set by customer C, and the registration information j in association with each other as log information, separate from the transaction information. (2) Based on the registration operation of my container k by the second customer D, the weighing device 20 stores the password "68" set by customer D and the registration information k (the weight value of my container k, the captured image of my container k) in association with each other as transaction information, and stores the sequence number "YYYYMMDD002", the password "68" set by customer D, and the registration information k in association with each other as log information, separate from the transaction information. (3) The second customer D mistakenly enters the password "63" set by the first customer C instead of the password "68" that he or she has set. The weighing device 20 tares the items purchased by the second customer D using the weighed value of the first customer C's personal container j, and the process ends. (4) The weighing device 20 deletes the password "63" set by customer C, which is transaction information. (5) The first customer C enters the password "63" that he or she has set. The weighing device 20 displays an error because the password "63" is not stored in the transaction information. (6) Based on the store clerk's operation on the maintenance screen, the weighing device 20 reads the registration information j for the first customer C's personal container j, which is stored in association with the password "63" stored as log information. From then on, customer C tares the weighed value of his or her personal container j and completes the process. In other words, even if another customer mistakenly enters the password (management information) set by the customer C and the process is completed, the password set by the customer C is no longer stored as transaction information. Because the password is stored as log information, the store clerk can intervene and proceed with the process. Furthermore, because the same password is distinguished by a sequence number and each password is stored as log information, the store clerk can later refer to (confirm) the one or more pieces of registration information associated with each password, including those with duplicate passwords.

[0157] Although the method of managing transaction information and log information separately has been described as a method for dealing with forgotten passwords and incorrect input, forgotten passwords and incorrect input can also be dealt with by, for example, managing a data structure in which a sequence number, a first flag, a second flag, a password, and one or more pieces of registered information are linked together. The first flag is a flag indicating whether the data is valid or invalid. The first flag becomes "valid (e.g., value "0")" when a password is set by a customer. That is, when a password is set by a customer and the data is generated, the first flag is initially set to "valid (value "0")." The first flag becomes "invalid (e.g., value "1")" when the password is erased in accordance with the above-mentioned "predetermined conditions." When the password is erased in accordance with the "predetermined conditions," the data including the password is not actually erased but is invalidated (the first flag is changed from "valid (value "0")" to "invalid (value "1")"). Customers can only view valid data (data with the first flag value set to "0"), but store clerks can view both valid and invalid data (data with the first flag value set to "1").

[0158] Since only valid data (data with the first flag value "0") can be accessed by the customer, changing the value of the first flag from "0" to "1" (control to invalidate data) corresponds to "deleting the password." In other words, the first flag realizes "temporary storage of the password."

[0159] The second flag is a flag that reserves the invalidation of the data. In other words, the second flag corresponds to a "deletion flag" that can be set according to "predetermined conditions." Data for which the second flag is set (for example, to the value "1") according to "predetermined conditions" becomes invalid data (the value of the first flag is changed from "0" to "1") later (for example, at opening time, etc.). In a configuration in which the deletion flag is not set according to "predetermined conditions" (a configuration in which the deletion flag is not used), the second flag is unnecessary.

[0160] The embodiments have been described above, and according to the above embodiments, metered sales are improved. (1) In the above embodiment, the registration of a personal container is performed by storing the registration information (tare information) of the personal container in a memory unit, which allows customers to easily register their personal containers. For example, in the case of a method in which a barcode or a label printed with a two-dimensional code encoding the registration information of the personal container or an electronic tag storing the registration information of the personal container is attached to the personal container, the attachment of the tag to the personal container is required. However, in the above embodiment, the registration information of the personal container is stored in a memory unit, which allows customers to easily register their personal containers. (2) In the above embodiment, the registration of my container is performed by storing the registration information of my container in a memory unit. Therefore, there is no confusion due to forgetting to attach labels, which can occur in the method that requires attaching labels to my containers as described above, or inaccurate pricing due to incorrect attachment when multiple my containers are registered, and smooth and accurate sales by weight are realized. (3) In the above embodiment, the registration of my container is performed by storing the registration information of my container in a memory unit, which is relatively easy to accept even for customers who do not like to attach labels, etc. to their containers (customers who would prefer not to attach labels, etc.). (4) In the above embodiment, the registration information for each customer’s container is stored in association with a password (i.e., the registration information for each customer’s container is properly managed individually using a password set by each customer), which reduces the burden on each customer who uses their own container, while enabling bulk sales for a large number of customers who use their own containers. (5) In the above embodiment, the password is temporarily stored. Therefore, even if an easy-to-remember two-digit number is used as the password, the passwords that can be set will not run out and can be used appropriately. (6) In the above embodiment, the registration information for one or more personal containers is stored in association with a password. Therefore, even when registering multiple personal containers, a customer only needs to set one password, allowing the customer to efficiently register multiple personal containers. (7) In the above embodiment, the registration information for one or more personal containers is stored in association with a password. This reduces the burden on customers because they only need to remember one password even if they have registered multiple personal containers, and also reduces the risk of confusion due to forgotten passwords or incorrect passwords.

[0161] (Variation) The above-described embodiment is merely an example, and the specific configuration is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and includes designs within the scope of the gist of the invention. For example, as shown in the following (1) to (20), appropriate modifications are possible. Furthermore, the following (1) to (20) may be combined as appropriate.

[0162] (1) In the above embodiment, an example of screen transition from the password entry screen GA31 in FIG. 6(A) to the container selection screen GA32 in FIG. 6(B) to the product selection screen GA33 in FIG. 6(C) was described. However, the screen transition may be from the password entry screen GA31 in FIG. 6(A) to the product selection screen GA33 in FIG. 6(C). In other words, if there is only one registered my container, the customer does not have to select that my container. The same applies to a situation where there is multiple registered my containers and the last one needs to be selected. In other words, if there is only one registered my container to be selected, the customer's selection of the my container may be omitted. If there is only one registered my container to be selected, the customer may be asked to press a confirmation button, and if the confirmation button is pressed, the screen may transition to the next screen (product selection screen).

[0163] (2) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the my container registration information display area HR2-1 is hidden on the container selection screen GA32 of Fig. 13(B), and the my container registration information display area HR2-1 and the my container registration information display area HR2-4 are hidden on the container selection screen GA32 of Fig. 15(A), but they may also be displayed in a display mode (e.g., grayed out or shaded) to indicate that they have already been selected (i.e., are not currently selected). Furthermore, the my container registration information display area HR2 for a selected my container may be displayed in the same manner as the my container registration information display area HR2 for an unselected my container, with the selection button BTBT83 in the my container registration information display area HR2 for the selected my container displayed in an inoperable display mode (e.g., grayed out or shaded).

[0164] (3) In the above embodiment, when multiple personal containers are registered, the weight of each personal container is weighed and registered in order. However, for identical personal containers, one may be weighed and the remaining may not be weighed. The weighing device 20 may also ask the customer whether there are identical personal containers and how many identical personal containers there are.

[0165] (Confirm after operating the Add button BT76 on the My Container Registration Completion Instruction Screen GA23) When the Add button BT76 on the My Container Registration Completion Instruction Screen GA23 is pressed, the weighing device 20 may confirm with the customer whether or not they have the same container and how many of the same containers they have. For example, after pressing the Add button BT76, the weighing device 20 may display (pop-up display) a small screen for confirming whether or not there is an identical container (not shown) with "Yes" and "No" buttons along with a message such as "Do you have the same container?". When the "No" button is pressed on the small screen for confirming whether or not there is an identical container, the weighing device 20 may close the small screen for confirming whether or not there is an identical container and transition to the my container weighing instruction screen GA20 (i.e., proceed to weighing). When the "Yes" button is pressed on the small screen for confirming whether or not there is an identical container, the weighing device 20 may display (pop-up display) a small keypad screen with a numeric keypad instead of the small screen for confirming whether or not there is an identical container. When a quantity is entered on the small keypad screen, the weighing device 20 transitions to the my container registration completion instruction screen GA23 (i.e., omits weighing). The most recent weighing value will be reflected as the weight of my container if weighing is omitted.

[0166] For example, a customer who brought two identical containers would press the Add button BT76 on the My Container Registration Completion Instruction Screen GA23 (FIG. 4(B)) after registering the first my container, press the "Yes" button on the small identical container presence confirmation screen that appears after pressing the Add button BT76, and press "1" on the small numeric keypad screen that appears after pressing the "Yes" button. As a result, if the weighing value of the first my container is 62 g, the weighing value of the first my container will also be registered as 62 g. Note that if a customer brought three identical containers, they would press "2" on the small numeric keypad screen. On the other hand, a customer who brought two different containers would press the Add button BT76 on the My Container Registration Completion Instruction Screen GA23 (FIG. 4(B)) after registering the first my container, press the "No" button on the small identical container presence confirmation screen that appears after pressing the Add button BT76, and weigh the second my container on the My Container Measurement Instruction Screen GA20 (FIG. 8(A)) that appears after pressing the "No" button.

[0167] The number entered on the small numeric keypad screen may be the number of identical containers. In other words, if two identical containers are brought, "2" may be entered, and if three identical containers are brought, "3" may be entered.

[0168] The weighing device 20 may display the small screen for checking the presence or absence of identical containers and the small screen for the numeric keypad as one screen (or one small screen). For example, after operating the add button BT76, the weighing device 20 may display a message saying "If identical containers exist, input the number. If identical containers exist, press the 'No' button," as well as a screen (not shown) on which a numeric keypad and a "No" button are arranged.

[0169] (Another button is placed on the My Container Registration Completion Instruction Screen GA23) In addition to the Add button BT76 and the Registration Complete button BT77, the My Container Registration Completion Instruction Screen GA23 may also have an Add Same button displayed as "+ Add Same Container." In this case, when the Add Same button is operated, the weighing device 20 displays the small numeric keypad screen described above.

[0170] (4) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which a two-digit number is used as management information (password) for managing one or more personal containers (personal container registration information (tare information)) (for example, Figures 4(C), 6(A), 10(A), and 11(B)). However, the management information is not limited to two-digit numbers. For example, one-digit or three or more digits may be used as the management information, or letters, symbols, etc. may be used as the management information, or a combination of these may be used as the management information. Furthermore, characters such as animals may be used as the management information.

[0171] When alphabets, symbols, etc. are used as the management information, a keyboard (alphabet buttons, symbol buttons) may be displayed when setting and inputting the management information, just as a numeric keypad (number buttons) is displayed when numbers are used as the management information, and when characters such as animals are used as the management information, character buttons with stylized designs of each character may be displayed when setting and inputting the management information. Character buttons may also be displayed on a character selection screen (not shown) on which multiple character buttons are arranged.

[0172] (Method of storing characters such as animals as management information) When using characters such as animals as management information, a character number or the like may be assigned to each character (character button), and the character number or the like may be stored in association with one or more my containers (registration information for my containers). The same applies when alphabets, symbols, or the like are used as management information. The mechanism for temporarily storing management information is the same when using characters such as animals as management information, as when using alphabets, symbols, or the like as management information, and as when using numbers as management information. In other words, management information (numbers, character numbers assigned to characters such as animals, etc.) stored in association with one or more my containers can be deleted based on the above-mentioned predetermined conditions (registration information may also be deleted along with the management information).

[0173] (Button display when numbers, alphabets, etc. are used as management information) When numbers, alphabets, etc. are used as the management information, basically (except when a single number or a single letter is used as the management information), when setting the management information (on the password setting screen GA24), all buttons are always displayed as operable (regardless of the setting status of the management information). For example, whether "8B1" is not set as management information for another customer or is set (whether "8B1" is settable or not), when setting the management information, the "1", "8", and "B" buttons are displayed as operable.

[0174] When numbers, letters, etc. are used as management information, all buttons are basically always displayed as operable (regardless of the management information setting status), both when setting the management information and when entering the management information (on the password input screen GA31).

[0175] (Button display when using animal characters etc. as management information) When using characters such as animals as management information, basically (except when two or more characters are combined to form management information), only the character buttons of characters that can be set are displayed as operable (selectable) when setting the management information. For example, if "lion" is not set as management information for other customers (if "lion" is settable), the "lion" button may be displayed as operable (selectable) when setting the management information, and if "lion" is set as management information for other customers (if "lion" is not settable), the "lion" button may be hidden (or grayed out) when setting the management information. Note that whether a character is settable (display / hide of the character button) can be determined by referring to the memory unit. If the character (character number, etc.) is not stored in the memory unit, it is settable, and if the character (character number, etc.) is stored in the memory unit, it is not settable. Whether a character is settable or not may be managed using a flag. In other words, the display / hide of the character button may be controlled using the flag.

[0176] When characters such as animals are used as management information, when inputting management information, the buttons of all characters are basically always displayed as operable (regardless of the setting status of the management information). However, initially, all character buttons may always be displayed, and when a character button of an unset character is operated (i.e., when an obviously incorrect character is selected), only the character button of the character being set may be displayed as operable (selectable), or only the character button of the character being set may be displayed as operable (selectable) from the beginning.

[0177] In other words, when one button corresponds to one piece of management information, only the character buttons of the characters that can be set are displayed as operable when setting the management information to prevent unnecessary redoing. Also, when one button corresponds to one piece of management information, all buttons may be displayed as operable at all times when inputting the management information, or only the button being set may be displayed as operable (incorrect buttons may be hidden, etc.).

[0178] In addition, when two or more buttons correspond to one piece of management information, the buttons may be hidden (or grayed out) when the management information is set. For example, when a three-digit number is used as the management information, and 11 numbers "514," "570," to "579" are set (cannot be set) (when the 11 numbers are stored in the storage unit), before inputting the first digit (before setting), all 10 buttons "0" to "9" are displayed as operable buttons → input "5" as the first digit → nine buttons other than "7" are displayed as operable buttons (the 10 numbers "570" to "579" cannot be set) → input "1" as the second digit → nine buttons other than "4" are displayed as operable buttons ("514" cannot be set) → input "3" as the third digit, and so on.

[0179] (5) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the customer sets (determines) the management information (e.g., FIGS. 4(C) and 10(A)). However, the management information may also be set automatically (without the customer's intervention). For example, the weighing device 20 may determine a piece of management information when the customer presses the registration completion button BT77 on the my container registration completion instruction screen GA23. Alternatively, instead of the weighing device 20, an external device capable of communicating with the weighing device 20 (such as a cash register installed in the store, a management device that manages the cash register, a store controller, or a server located outside the store) may determine a piece of management information. For example, the weighing device 20 may request an external device to determine the management information, and the external device may determine the management information based on the request and notify the weighing device 20 of the determined management information. In addition, the weighing device 20 (and the external device as well) may, for example, randomly select one piece of management information from the configurable management information (management information not used by other customers), or may select one piece of management information from the configurable management information according to a predetermined rule (for example, selecting the one with the longest elapsed time since last use, or the one with the fewest number of uses within a predetermined period, etc.).

[0180] The automatically set management information is notified to the customer. For example, if the weighing device 20 determines that the password is 12 (or is notified that the password is 12 from an external device), the weighing device 20 displays on the display unit 26 a message indicating that the password is 12 (for example, a message saying "The password is 12").

[0181] (6) The weighing device 20 may issue a medium with management information printed on it. For example, the weighing device 20 may issue a medium (a receipt with management information printed on it) with the management information set by the customer visibly printed on it. For example, if the customer presses the Confirm button BT78 on the password setting screen GA24 in FIG. 4(C) or FIG. 10(A), a receipt with management information printed on it may be issued with a visibly printed indication that the password is 12 (for example, a receipt with management information printed on it that reads, "The password is 12").

[0182] The weighing device 20 may also issue a control information-printed receipt with the automatically set control information visibly printed on it. For example, if the weighing device 20 determines that the password is 12 (or is notified that the password is 12 from an external device), it may issue a control information-printed receipt with the password 12 visibly printed on it.

[0183] (7) The weighing device 20 may issue a medium (code-printed receipt) on which a code that can be read by the weighing device itself (scanner unit 25) is printed. For example, the weighing device 20 may issue a code-printed receipt on which a barcode (or a two-dimensional code) that encodes management information set by the customer (or automatically set management information) is printed.

[0184] The weighing device 20 can read the code-printed receipt to obtain the management information. Therefore, instead of the password entry screen GA31 in Figure 6(A) or Figure 11(B), the weighing device 20 may display a code-printed receipt reading instruction screen (not shown) that instructs (guides) the user to read the code-printed receipt.

[0185] (8) The weighing device 20 may issue a code-printed receipt on which a barcode (or two-dimensional code) encoding the registration information (tare information) of one or more personal containers is printed. When the code-printed receipt is printed, the registration information of one or more personal containers can be obtained by reading the code-printed receipt, making management information unnecessary.

[0186] The weighing device 20 may issue a coded receipt with a barcode (or two-dimensional code) that encodes the sequence number and the registration information (tare weight information) of one or more personal containers. When issuing such a medium, management information is not required.

[0187] (9) The management information may be customer identification information (e.g., membership information, membership code, or membership number that can be obtained from a membership card carried by the customer or a customer's smartphone). In other words, the weighing device 20 may store customer identification information associated with one or more personal container registration information. When customer identification information is used as the management information, the weighing device 20 may display a customer identification information read instruction screen (not shown) that instructs (guides) the user to read the customer identification information, instead of the password setting screen GA24 in FIG. 4(C) or FIG. 10(A) or the password input screen GA31 in FIG. 6(A) or FIG. 11(B). When customer identification information is used as the management information, there is no need to worry about the management information (customer identification information) running out. Therefore, it is not necessary to delete the customer identification information stored in association with the registration information of one or more personal containers. However, it is preferable to delete the registration information of one or more personal containers stored in association with the customer identification information. The registration information may be deleted based on the predetermined conditions (1) to (7) described above.

[0188] The customer identification information used as management information may be existing information (such as customer identification information used for point allocation, etc.) or may be information dedicated to registering my container. When using information dedicated to registering my container, the customer identification information may be registered in advance.

[0189] (10) In the above embodiment, all products displayed and sold in the bulk sales area are displayed on the product selection screen GA33. However, only some of the products may be displayed. For example, a device equipped with a sensor function and a communication function may be installed in each product display container to sense when a customer removes a product, and product buttons corresponding to the removed products may be displayed on the product selection screen GA33 (product buttons for products not detected as being removed by a customer may not be displayed).

[0190] (11) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which one password (management information) was linked to one or more pieces of registered information (container information), but one password may also be linked to one piece of registered information. That is, in the above embodiment, the ratio of management information:container information = 1:n was described, but the ratio of management information:container information = 1:1 may also be used. That is, a customer who brings multiple containers may set a password for each of their containers and enter the password set for each container when weighing the products in each container.

[0191] (12) In the above embodiment, weighing device 20 is equipped with camera 24 that captures images from above of an item placed on platform 23a. However, instead of or in addition to camera 24 that captures images from above of an item placed on platform 23a, a camera that captures images from the side of an item placed on platform 23a may be provided. In the above embodiment, the registered information (tare information) for a container was described as the weight of the container and an image of the container captured from above. However, it may also be the weight of the container and an image of the container captured from the side, or the weight of the container, an image of the container captured from above, and an image of the container captured from the side. Weighing device 20 may be equipped with three or more cameras.

[0192] (13) In the above embodiment, the registered information for a personal container is described as the weight of the personal container and an image of the personal container taken from above. However, it may be the weight of the personal container alone. In other words, the weighing device 20 may store management information (e.g., a two-digit number, characters, customer identification information, etc.) and the weight of one or more personal containers (the weight of each registered personal container) in association with each other.

[0193] (14) In the above embodiment, the weighing device 20 printed and issued a product label to be affixed to a container (personal container, store-provided container) based on the operation of the print button BT86. However, instead of or in addition to a product label, the weighing device 20 may print and issue a medium (product receipt) that is not affixed to a container. The weighing device 20 may also issue a product receipt with a code (such as a barcode) that can be read at a cash register printed on it. When purchasing multiple products using multiple personal containers, the weighing device 20 may print and issue a product receipt for each product, or it may print and issue a single product receipt for all the products (a single product receipt may be printed and issued based on the operation of the print button BT86 for the last product).

[0194] (15) In the above embodiment, the weighing device 20 stores the management information (password) and the registration information of one or more personal containers in association with each other within the weighing device 20 (storage unit 22). However, the storage location is not limited to within the weighing device. For example, the weighing device 20 may store the management information and the registration information of one or more personal containers in association with each other in an external device (such as a cash register installed in a store, a management device that manages the cash register, a store controller, or a server located outside the store).

[0195] In the above embodiment, the weighing device 20 stores the product file and the store-provided container file internally, but as described above, the storage location is not limited to within the weighing device itself. The same applies to log information. The same applies to information stored in association with a sequence number, a first flag (second flag), a password, and one or more pieces of registered information.

[0196] (16) Multiple weighing devices 20 may be installed in store S, and a customer who brings their own container may register their own container using one weighing device 20 and use another weighing device 20 to weigh a product (in the registered container) and issue a product label for that product. In other words, the weighing device 20 that issues the product label may access the registration information for one or more my-containers stored by the other weighing devices 20. For example, each weighing device 20 may store management information and the registration information for one or more my-containers in an external device, linking them together, and each weighing device 20 may be able to access the external device. Alternatively, for example, each weighing device 20 may store management information and the registration information for one or more my-containers in its own memory 22, linking them together, and each weighing device 20 may also be able to access the memory 22 of the other weighing devices 20.

[0197] (17) In the above embodiment, the weighing device 20 has a function for registering my container (container registration mode) and a function for weighing products (product purchase mode), but it may have one of the functions and not the other.

[0198] (18) This is also related to (17) above, but the functions of weighing device 20 may be realized by multiple devices. For example, the functions of weighing device 20 may be realized by weighing device 20A (a device dedicated to registering my containers) that has the function of registering my containers but not the function of weighing products, and weighing device 20B that has the function of weighing products but not the function of registering my containers. A customer who brings their own container uses weighing device 20A to register their own container, and then uses weighing device 20B to weigh the product (the product in the registered my container) and issue a product label for that product. Weighing device 20B only needs to be able to access the registration information for one or more my containers stored by weighing device 20A. For example, weighing device 20A may store management information and the registration information for one or more my containers in a device (e.g., a server) that can also be accessed by weighing device 20B, linking them together. Furthermore, the weighing device 20A may store the management information and the registration information of one or more personal containers in association with each other in the storage unit of the weighing device 20B. Furthermore, weighing device 20A may store management information and registration information for one or more personal containers in association with each other within its own device, and weighing device 20B may access the storage unit of weighing device 20A.

[0199] Weighing device 20 and weighing device 20A may be installed in store S. That is, a customer who brings his / her own container may register his / her own container using weighing device 20 or weighing device 20A, and may use weighing device 20 to weigh a product (the product placed in the registered container using weighing device 20 or weighing device 20A) and issue a product label for the product. Weighing device 20 and weighing device 20B may be installed in store S. That is, a customer who brings his / her own container may register his / her own container using weighing device 20, and may use weighing device 20 or weighing device 20B to weigh a product (the product placed in the registered container using weighing device 20) and issue a product label for the product.

[0200] (19) In the above embodiment, the weighing device 20 is described as including the weighing unit 23, the camera 24, the scanner unit 25, the display unit 26, the printer unit 28, and the communication unit 29 (FIGS. 1 and 2). However, the components of the weighing device 20 may be configured with multiple devices. The same applies to the weighing device 20A and the weighing device 20B.

[0201] For example, the weighing device 100 may be configured with a weighing unit, scanner unit, display unit, printer unit, and communication unit, and an imaging device 101 with a camera and communication unit. Images captured by the imaging device 101 are transmitted to the weighing device 100 directly or via another device. The scanner unit of the weighing device 100 may be a separate entity (may be configured as a reading device). The display unit of the weighing device 100 may be a separate entity (may be configured as a display device). The printer unit of the weighing device 100 may be a separate entity (may be configured as a printing device).

[0202] Alternatively, the weighing device 102 may be configured with a weighing unit and a communication unit, and a label issuing device 103 with a camera, a scanner unit, a display unit, a printer unit, and a communication unit. The weighing device 102 and the label issuing device 103 are connected by wire or wirelessly. The weighing device 102 may transmit digital information or may output analog information. In the latter case, the output information (measurement value) from the weighing device 102 is input to the label issuing device 103 (the same applies to the label issuing device 104 described below) via an A / D converter. The camera of the label issuing device 103 may be a separate entity (may be configured as an imaging device). The scanner unit of the label issuing device 103 may be a separate entity (may be configured as a reading device). The display unit of the label issuing device 103 may be a separate entity (may be configured as a display device).

[0203] (20) Some or all of the operation of weighing device 20 (also weighing device 20A and weighing device 20B) may be controlled by another device. For example, instead of weighing device 20, an external device (e.g., a cloud server) may control the display of weighing device 20. For example, weighing device 20 may accept various inputs (customer operations, weighing values ​​measured by weighing unit 23, etc.), send the input information (operation information, weighing values, etc.) to a cloud server, and receive the processing results (screen information for the various screens in FIGS. 3 to 15, or display control information for the various screens in FIGS. 3 to 15, etc.) processed by the cloud server to operate (display, etc.). In other words, a program for controlling the operation of weighing device 20 may be executed by a cloud server.

[0204] The embodiments will be summarized below. [Technical field] The present invention relates to a weighing device, a weighing system, and a program. [Background technology] For example, a system is known in which tare weight is subtracted in weighed sales (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art document] [Patent documents] [Patent Document 1] Publication No. 58-172836 [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be solved by the invention] However, there is room for improvement in weigh-by-volume sales with tare subtraction. The present invention has been made in consideration of such circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a technology for improving weigh-by-volume sales with tare subtraction. [Means for solving the problem] (1) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention is a weighing device (e.g., weighing device 20, weighing device 20A, weighing device 100, weighing device 102) characterized by comprising a mass detection means (e.g., weighing unit 23 of weighing device 20, weighing unit of weighing devices 20A, 100, 102) that detects the mass of an item placed on a platform, a tare information generation means (CPU of each device) that generates tare information regarding the tare placed on the platform (e.g., tare weight / tare weight+captured image), and an association means (CPU of each device) that associates the tare information generated by the tare information generation means with management information for managing the tare information (e.g., password, character, customer identification information). The weighing device (1) improves sales by weighing. For example, the tare weight information can be appropriately managed using the management information.

[0205] (2) The weighing device described in (1) is characterized in that it is equipped with a release means for release of the association between the container information and the management information by the association means (for example, erasing the management information linked to the container information stored in the memory unit), and the association means associates the container information generated by the container information generation means in one transaction with the management information that is not associated with the container information generated by the container information generation means in another transaction, or with the management information that was associated with the container information generated by the container information generation means in another transaction and then the association was released by the release means. The weighing device (2) improves sales by weight. For example, since the association between tare information and management information (storage of management information) is temporary, that is, the management information is stored in the storage unit only temporarily until a predetermined condition is met (from the time it is stored until it is deleted (released)), it can be used effectively without running out of configurable (usable) management information.

[0206] (3) A weighing device as described in (1) or (2), characterized in that the container information generating means generates a plurality of container information corresponding to each of a plurality of containers in a single transaction, and the associating means associates the plurality of container information generated by the container information generating means in a single transaction with one piece of management information. The weighing device (3) improves sales by weighing. For example, it reduces the burden on customers and allows them to efficiently register multiple containers.

[0207] (4) A weighing device according to any one of (1) to (3), comprising a display means and a management information identification means for identifying one of the management information associated with the container information (for example, by a password entered into a password input screen GA31), wherein the display means displays one or more of the container information associated with the management information identified by the management information identification means (for example, in the my container registration information display area HR2) and displays a container designation screen (for example, a container selection screen GA32) for accepting the designation of one container (for example, by a selection button BT83). The weighing device (4) improves the volumetric sales process, for example, by allowing a user to easily check one or more registered containers and select one.

[0208] (5) A weighing device as described in any of (1) to (4), characterized in that it has a management information identification means for identifying one of the management information associated with the container information (for example, identification by a password entered on a password input screen GA31), and a product identification means for identifying a product (for example, a product button BT84 on a product selection screen GA33), and has a first operation mode (for example, a my container registration mode) in which the container information is generated by the container information generation means, or a second operation mode (for example, a my container product purchase mode) in which a selling price is calculated based on the mass of the container and product detected by the mass detection means, the container information generated by the container information generation means and associated with the management information identified by the management information identification means, and the unit price of the product identified by the product identification means. The weighing device (5) improves the volumetric sales. For example, it can operate in different operating modes depending on the purpose.

[0209] (6) A weighing device as described in any of (1) to (5), characterized in that it is provided with an imaging means for imaging an item placed on a platform, and the tare information generating means generates tare information including the mass of the tare detected by the mass detection means and an image of the tare captured by the imaging means. The weighing device (6) improves the volume sales process, for example, by allowing registered containers to be conveniently identified and selected.

[0210] (7) A weighing device as described in any of (1) to (6), characterized in that it is provided with a management information receiving means for receiving the management information, and the association means associates the container information generated by the container information generating means with the management information received by the management information receiving means. (7) The weighing device improves sales by weighing.

[0211] (8) A weighing device as described in (7) is provided with a display means, which displays a predetermined screen for accepting the management information (for example, a password setting screen GA24 for accepting password setting, a character selection screen for accepting character selection, a customer identification information reading instruction screen for instructing reading of customer identification information), and the management information accepting means accepts the management information via the screen. (8) The weighing device improves sales by weighing. It can be easily operated by following the instructions on the screen.

[0212] (9) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention is a weighing system comprising a mass detection unit (e.g., weighing unit 23 of weighing device 20, weighing unit of weighing devices 20A, 100, 102) that detects the mass of an item placed on a platform, a tare information generation unit that generates tare information regarding a tare placed on the platform, and an association unit that associates the tare information generated by the tare information generation unit with management information for managing the tare information. The weighing system (9) improves sales by weighing. For example, the management information can be used to appropriately manage tare weight information.

[0213] (10) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention is a program (e.g., a program that runs on each device or on the server side) for causing a computer to function as a device that constitutes a weighing system (e.g., weighing device 20, weighing device 20A, weighing device 100, weighing device 102, or multiple devices when the functions of weighing device 20, etc. are realized by multiple devices), characterized in that the program causes the computer to function as a mass detection means that detects the mass of an item placed on a placing platform, a tare information generation means that generates tare information regarding a tare placed on the placing platform, and an association means that associates the tare information generated by the tare information generation means with management information for managing the tare information. The program (10) improves sales by weight. For example, the management information can be used to appropriately manage tare weight information.

[0214] The program for implementing the above-described weighing device 20 may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium and loaded into a computer system for execution. The term "computer system" as used herein includes hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices. The term "computer-readable recording medium" also refers to portable media such as flexible disks, optical magnetic disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, as well as storage devices such as hard disks built into a computer system. The term "computer-readable recording medium" also includes devices that retain the program for a certain period of time, such as volatile memory (RAM) within a computer system that acts as a server or client when the program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. The program may also be transmitted from a computer system storing the program in a storage medium to another computer system via a transmission medium or by transmission waves within the transmission medium. The term "transmission medium" used to transmit the program refers to a medium capable of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet or a communication line (communication line) such as a telephone line. The program may also be used to implement some of the functions described above. Furthermore, the above-mentioned functions may be realized in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system, that is, a so-called differential file (differential program). [Explanation of symbols]

[0215] 20...weighing device, 20A...weighing device, 20B...weighing device, 21...CPU, 22...memory unit, 23...weighing unit, 24...camera, 25...scanner unit, 26...display unit, 27...audio output unit, 28...printing unit, 29...communication unit, 100...weighing device, 102...weighing device

Claims

1. a mass detection means for detecting the mass of an article placed on the placement table; a container information generating means for generating container information relating to a container placed on the table; a registration means for linking and registering the container information generated by the container information generation means and management information for managing the container information; a printing means for issuing a medium on which the management information is printed; A weighing device comprising:

2. A display means for displaying a standby screen that can accept an operation to proceed to register the weight of the container brought in and an operation to proceed to weigh the product to be purchased. Equipped with The display means When an operation to proceed to weighing the commodity to be purchased is performed on the standby screen, an input screen is displayed for accepting input of the management information linked to the container information and registered; If the management information entered on the input screen is registered in association with the container information, a product selection screen for accepting product selection is displayed.

2. The weighing device according to claim 1.

3. The printing means The management information is printed as code information.

2. The weighing device according to claim 1.

4. A calculation means for calculating the purchase weight of a product to be purchased Equipped with The calculation means The purchase weight is calculated from the mass detected by the mass detection means and the container information registered in association with the management information input on the input screen.

3. The weighing device according to claim 2.

5. A program for causing a computer to function as a weighing device, The computer a mass detection means for detecting the mass of an article placed on the placement table; a container information generating means for generating container information relating to a container placed on the table; a registration means for linking and registering the container information generated by the container information generation means and management information for managing the container information; a printing means for issuing a medium on which the management information is printed; A program characterized by functioning as

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