Information processing device, information processing system, and information processing program

Abstract

To provide a multi-timer that makes management of the expiration dates of ingredients easy and is user-friendly.SOLUTION: An information processing device comprises: an operation unit that activates a timer selected from multiple timers displayed on a display unit; a list display unit that displays a list of ingredients associated with the active timer (operating timer); a measurement start unit that sets predetermined first time corresponding to the ingredients selected from the list and second time indicating the expiration date on the operating timer and starts measuring the first and second times; a first notification unit that notifies a user of the operating timer in a first notification mode when the operating timer has measured the first time; a second notification unit that notifies the user of the operating timer in a second notification mode when the operating timer has measured the second time; and a termination unit that deactivates the operating timer based on a reset operation. If the expiration date and time calculated from the second time falls during a staff absence period, the first and second times are adjusted before or after the absence period.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a multi-timer used in the food service industry such as restaurants, the ready-meal industry such as food supermarkets, and kitchens in other industries. [Background technology]

[0002] Currently, food expiration dates are managed in kitchens at restaurants, supermarkets, and other establishments. For example, expiration dates are set for each food ingredient (e.g., fresh ingredients, processed ingredients, etc.) based on a predetermined period from the time the ingredient is opened or thawed, and labels with the set expiration dates printed on them are affixed to the food ingredient's containers. In this case, chefs in the kitchen typically manage the expiration dates of each ingredient by looking at the labels affixed to the food ingredient's containers. Therefore, this method involves managing the expiration dates of ingredients through manual processes, which can result in the expiration date being exceeded.

[0003] In this regard, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which an input device has a mode for specifying ingredients, a memory device stores expiration date management information corresponding to each ingredient name, an output device has a buzzer, and a control device has a clock unit, in a POS system in which the control device reads out the expiration date management information corresponding to the specified ingredient name, determines the notification time, and sounds the buzzer when the notification time is reached. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-162253 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in kitchens of restaurants, supermarkets, and the like, there is a demand for expiration date management systems that are easier to use and have excellent operability.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a multi-timer that is easy to use and that makes it easier to manage expiration dates of ingredients in the kitchen. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides, as one aspect thereof, An information processing device capable of displaying a plurality of timers for managing expiration dates of ingredients used in a store at desired positions on a display unit, a first storage unit that stores, for each food ingredient, a first time before the expiration date for preliminary notification and a second time indicating the expiration date; a second storage unit that stores a first period relating to the absence of staff at the store; a timer operation unit that activates a timer selected by a staff member from among the plurality of timers displayed on the display unit; a list display unit that displays a list of ingredients associated with the timer that has been activated (hereinafter referred to as the active timer); an expiration date information acquisition unit that acquires, from the first storage unit, the first time and the second time corresponding to an ingredient selected by a staff member from the list; an expiration date calculation unit that calculates an expiration date and time of the selected ingredient based on the second time acquired by the expiration date information acquisition unit; an expiration date and time display unit that displays the expiration date and time calculated by the expiration date and time calculation unit on the active timer; a measurement start unit that sets the first time and the second time acquired by the expiration date information acquisition unit in the active timer and causes the active timer to start measuring the first time and the second time; a first notification unit that, when the active timer measures the first time period, sets the active timer to a first notification mode including a first display mode and a first sound output mode, thereby notifying the user of the passage of the first time period; a second notification unit that, when the active timer measures the second time period, sets the active timer to a second notification mode having a second display mode and a second sound output mode different from the first notification mode, thereby notifying the user of the passage of the second time period; a timer operation termination unit that, after the second notification unit notifies the elapse of the second time period, makes the active timer inactive based on a reset operation of the active timer by a staff member; Equipped with The expiration date and time calculation unit a second time change unit that changes the second time acquired by the expiration date information acquisition unit so that the expiration date falls before or after the first period when the calculated expiration date is included in the first period acquired from the second storage unit (hereinafter referred to as "in the case of an absence period"); a first time changing unit that, when the second time changing unit changes the acquired second time, changes the first time based on the change of the second time; Equipped with the measurement start unit, when the calculated expiration date and time is an absence period, sets the changed first time and the changed second time in the active timer and causes the active timer to start measuring the first time and the second time; The gist of the project is to provide the following: [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a multi-timer that allows easier management of expiration dates of ingredients in the kitchen and is easy to use. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1]1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1A is a functional configuration diagram of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1B is a functional configuration diagram of a monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] (a) is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of information processing device setting information according to one embodiment of the present invention, (b) is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of timer setting information according to one embodiment of the present invention, (c) is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of item setting information according to one embodiment of the present invention, (d) is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of store setting information according to one embodiment of the present invention, and (e) is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of operation log information according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 1A and 1B are diagrams showing an example of a display mode on a display unit of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] 1A and 1B are diagrams showing an example of a display mode on a display unit of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] 1A and 1B are diagrams showing an example of a display mode on a display unit of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a timer selection and execution process of the information processing device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 10(a) to 10(e) are diagrams showing changes in the display mode of a timer according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display mode of a timer according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of a timer monitoring process of the information processing system according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] 1 is a diagram showing an example of a display mode on a monitoring display unit of a monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0011] <Configuration of information processing system> Fig. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an information processing system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Information processing system 10 is an information processing system in which chefs (hereinafter referred to as staff) manage cooking times and expiration dates of ingredients in kitchens (hereinafter referred to as "store kitchens") in the food service industry such as restaurants, the ready-meal industry such as food supermarkets, karaoke parlors, and other industries. As shown in Fig. 1, information processing system 10 includes a plurality of information processing devices 1 and a monitoring device 2.

[0012] The information processing device 1 is an information terminal installed in the kitchen of a store, and is configured, for example, as a tablet terminal or a smartphone. The information processing device 1 is capable of operating multiple timers 4. Specifically, a multi-timer application program (hereinafter referred to as the timer program) 17 is installed in the information processing device 1, and by executing this timer program 17, multiple timers 4 are displayed on the display unit (display) of the information processing device 1, and each of the multiple timers 4 can measure a desired time. The information processing device 1 is attached, for example, to a kitchen wall or kitchen equipment with a magnet, fitted into a housing, or installed with a mounting bracket, and is used for managing cooking times and expiration dates of ingredients during cooking.

[0013] In the present embodiment, the functions of the information processing system 10 relating to expiration date management of ingredients will be described below.

[0014] The monitoring device 2 is an information terminal installed in the store's kitchen or other back-of-house area, and is configured, for example, as a personal computer, tablet terminal, or smartphone. The monitoring device 2 is a device that allows an administrator to monitor the status of the timer 4 operating in the information processing device 1. Note that, although the information processing system 10 shown in FIG. 1 shows an example of a configuration in which the monitoring device 2 is installed inside the store, the monitoring device 2 may also be installed outside the store.

[0015] The plurality of information processing devices 1 and monitoring devices 2 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other via a communication network 3. The communication network 3 is generally configured as an in-house network such as a wireless LAN (Local Area Network), but may also be configured as a communication network including the Internet network, a public network, etc., or may be configured as a communication network including a wired network.

[0016] 1 is configured with a plurality of information processing devices 1, it may also be configured with a single information processing device 1. Also, the information processing device 1 shown in FIG. 1 is capable of operating a plurality of timers 4, but it goes without saying that it may also be possible to operate only one timer 4.

[0017] <Configuration of information processing device> 2(a) is a functional configuration diagram of the information processing device 1. The information processing device 1 includes an input / output unit 11, a communication unit 12, a storage unit 13, and a control unit .

[0018] The input / output unit 11 serves as both an input unit and an output unit of the information processing device 1, and is composed of, for example, a touch panel display, a speaker, etc. More specifically, the input / output unit 11 has an input function such as text input and selection input, a speaker function for outputting notification sounds, a display function for displaying the timer 4, etc.

[0019] The communication unit 12 transmits and receives data to and from other information processing devices 1 and the monitoring device 2 via the communication network 3. In this embodiment, the communication unit 12 transmits timer information to the monitoring device 2 at any time. Here, the timer information is information relating to the operating status of the timer 4. Note that in this embodiment, data copying between information processing devices 1 is possible, so information relating to a timer set in one information processing device 1 can be transferred to another information processing device 1 via the communication unit 12.

[0020] The storage unit 13 is composed of, for example, a ROM, a RAM, a hard disk, etc., and stores data and programs used for control by the control unit 14. In this embodiment, the storage unit 13 stores data related to the setting and execution of the multi-timer and the above-mentioned timer program 17. More specifically, the storage unit 13 stores setting information 15 and operation log information 16.

[0021] The timer program 17 can be stored not only in the storage unit 13, i.e., in a main storage device such as the memory mentioned above or in an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk, but also in a computer-readable storage medium such as an external hard disk, a flexible disk, a CD (Compact Disc), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), or a BD (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc), or can be distributed via the communication network 3.

[0022] Setting information 15 is a general term for information related to the settings of the multi-timer, and more specifically includes information set for information processing device 1 (hereinafter referred to as information processing device setting information 15a), information set for timer 4 (hereinafter referred to as timer setting information 15b), setting information related to product items (in this embodiment, ingredients) (hereinafter referred to as item setting information 15c), and information set for the store (hereinafter referred to as store setting information 15d). Figure 3(a) shows a schematic diagram of the data configuration of information processing device setting information 15a, timer setting information 15b, item setting information 15c, and store setting information 15d. Setting information 15 is information set in advance by staff.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 3(a), the information processing device setting information 15a is data including items such as a terminal ID, a terminal name, a language, and a data synchronization flag. The terminal ID is an ID that can uniquely identify the information processing device 1 in the information processing system 10, and the terminal name is the name of the information processing device 1 in the information processing system 10. The language is the language displayed on the display unit of the information processing device 1, and languages ​​such as Japanese, English, and Chinese can be set. The data synchronization flag is a flag that indicates whether or not to synchronize setting data with another information processing device 1. When the data synchronization flag is ON, the information processing device 1 synchronizes the setting information 15 with the other information processing device 1.

[0024] For example, the information processing device 1 shown in Fig. 4(a) is set with a terminal name of "Refrigerator A" and a language of Japanese. The terminal name can be given a name indicating the location where the terminal is installed, specifically, the name of a kitchen facility in the vicinity of the installation, which has the advantage of making it easier to understand the purpose of the timer 4 of the information processing device 1. For example, in the case of the terminal name "Refrigerator A," it can be intuitively understood that the timer 4 displayed on this information processing device 1 is a timer 4 that manages ingredients stored in refrigerator A.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 3(b), timer setting information 15b is data including items such as a timer ID, a timer name, an operation mode, and a monitoring flag. The timer ID is an ID that can uniquely identify timer 4 in information processing system 10, and the timer name is the name of the timer in information processing system 10. For example, in information processing device 1 shown in FIG. 4(a), three timer windows are generated (hereinafter, the timer windows will be abbreviated to simply "timer"), and the respective timer names are "refrigerator first drawer left," "refrigerator first drawer right," and "refrigerator second drawer." By looking at the display position of timer 4 on the display unit and by looking at the timer name indicating the location of ingredients in the kitchen equipment, the location of ingredients managed by that timer 4 can be intuitively grasped, which has the advantage that staff can easily understand where multiple ingredients are stored.

[0026] The configuration of the timer 4 will now be described with reference to FIG. 4(a). The timer 4 is configured to include a timer name section 41 that displays the timer name, a product item section 42 that displays the product item name (ingredient), a timer section 43 that displays the measured time, and an action button section 44 that executes a predetermined operation upon receiving an operation. In this embodiment, the timer section 43 displays the expiration date and time of the selected ingredient by default after the timer 4 operates (see FIGS. 8(c)-(e) and 9, described later). Therefore, the measured time itself (elapsed time, remaining time) is not displayed, but the measured time can be displayed based on a predetermined operation. For example, the measured time may be displayed by operating a predetermined icon on the task bar at the bottom of the window.

[0027] The operation mode indicates the operation type of the timer. In this embodiment, two types are available: (1) "List," which allows a desired item to be selected from multiple product items (ingredients), and (2) "Fixed," which sets a specific product item (ingredient) as a fixed item. Staff can set either operation mode when creating a timer. Of course, it is also possible to change the operation mode once it has been set. When the operation mode is "List," a group (type) is also set. The monitoring flag is a flag that indicates whether or not timer information (information regarding the operation status of the timer 4) is to be sent to the monitoring device 2, that is, whether or not the timer 4 is to be monitored. When the monitoring flag is set to ON, the timer 4 is to be monitored by the monitoring device 2.

[0028] Here, the operation modes will be specifically described with reference to Figures 4 and 5. Figures 4 and 5 are diagrams showing the display state of the timer 4 displayed on the display unit (display) of the information processing device 1. Hereinafter, the "list" timer 4 will be referred to as timer 4a, and the "fixed" timer 4 will be referred to as timer 4b, and when collectively referred to, they will be referred to as timer 4.

[0029] FIG. 4(a) displays three timers 4a in the "list" operation mode. FIG. 4(b) shows the display state when the action button section 44 (specifically, the "select" button) of the timer 4a named "Refrigerator, first shelf, left" is pressed in the state of FIG. 4(a). Pressing the "select" button on the timer 4a selects the timer 4a and activates the window of the timer 4a. In this embodiment, when a timer 4a in the "list" operation mode is selected, a list 5 of product items is displayed as shown in FIG. 4(b).

[0030] The list 5 is made up of multiple tabs (groups), and in FIG. 4(b), the list 5 with the "Refrigerator 1" tab is displayed by default (displayed in the foreground). The staff member can select a desired product item (ingredient) from this list 5. Of course, it is possible to select not only the product item in the "Refrigerator 1" tab, but also the product item in another tab (group) (for example, the product item in the "Refrigerator 2" tab). In this embodiment, a method is adopted in which a product item is selected from one of multiple tabs, but it may be limited to one tab. In this case, only ingredients specific to the terminal name of the information processing device 1 are displayed, making the selection even easier. When a product item (ingredient) is selected from list 5 by the staff member, the name of the selected product item (ingredient) is displayed in product item section 42 of timer 4a for "first shelf, left of refrigerator," and timer 4a starts operating. For example, when "pickled onions" is selected from list 5, the "-----" display on timer 4a for "first shelf, left of refrigerator" is changed to "pickled onions," the "00:00" display on timer 4a is changed to "December 24th, 18:15," which is the expiration date and time, and timer 4a starts counting the time until the expiration date and time of "pickled onions."

[0031] The expiration date and time is calculated based on the current date and time (time) and the period during which the "pickled onions" will be used (for example, 6 hours, 1 day, etc., which corresponds to the "end notification time" in the item setting information d15c described later), and is displayed on the timer unit 43. As will be described in detail later, once the timer 4a has started measuring time, it outputs an end notification sound and displays the end notification display mode when the set end notification time is reached, thereby notifying the user of the set end notification time.

[0032] FIG. 5(a) shows three timers 4a whose operation mode is "list" and one timer 4b whose operation mode is "fixed." The timer 4b whose operation mode is "fixed" is named "Refrigerator, second drawer, left." In the timer 4b whose operation mode is "fixed," the product item is fixed, so the name of the set product item is already displayed in the product item section 42 of the timer 4b. For example, in the timer 4 for "Refrigerator, second drawer, left" shown in FIG. 5(a), "pickled onions" is displayed in the product item section 42. In other words, the timer 4b whose operation mode is "fixed" is in a state where one product item has already been selected from the list 5 whose operation mode is "list."

[0033] Fig. 5(b) shows a case where the timers 4 are displayed on a landscape screen (a screen where the width is greater than the height) of the information processing device 1. Fig. 5(b) displays four timers 4a whose operation mode is "list" and one timer 4b whose operation mode is "fixed."

[0034] The information processing device 1 of this embodiment can display the timer 4 on a portrait screen (a screen where the vertical length is greater than the horizontal length) as shown in Figures 4(a)-(b) and 5(a), and can also display the timer 4 on a landscape screen as shown in Figure 5(b). This makes it possible to select a screen that is suitable for the space where the information processing device 1 is installed and the cooking sections of the kitchen equipment. That is, it is expected that the information processing device 1 will be installed for each piece of kitchen equipment, and the multiple timers 4 displayed on the screen of the information processing device 1 will be positioned corresponding to the locations of food storage sections (e.g., refrigerator sections, sections for food storage that do not require refrigeration). Therefore, the installation direction of the information processing device 1 can be determined according to the layout of the sections of each piece of kitchen equipment.

[0035] As shown in Figure 3(c), the item setting information 15c is data that includes items such as item ID, product item name, group, counting method, ingredient expiration date flag, end notification time, end notification sound, preliminary notification time, preliminary notification sound, image, and measurement after time up flag.

[0036] The item ID is an ID that uniquely identifies the product item (ingredient) that is the target of timer 4's measurement in information processing system 10. The product item name is the name of the product item (ingredient) in information processing system 10. The group is a type group of product items. For example, in list 5 shown in FIG. 4(b), "pickled onions" and "large pickled onions" indicate product item names, and the tabs in list 5, "refrigerator 1," "refrigerator 2," and "food storage," indicate groups. The counting method is a display method of timer unit 43, and includes a countdown method (counting down from the notification time to 0) and a countup method (counting up from 0 to the notification time). In the present embodiment, timer unit 43 displays the expiration date and time by default, but does not display the measurement time. This display method is used when timer unit 43 is changed to display the measurement time. The ingredient expiration flag is a flag that indicates whether or not to display the expiration date of ingredients. In the present embodiment, the flag that displays the expiration date of ingredients is usually set. This is an information item that takes into consideration the case where the information processing system 10 has not only a function for managing the expiration date of ingredients but also a function for managing cooking times of ingredients.

[0037] The end notification time is the desired time to be measured by the timer 4 (in this embodiment, the use period of the food ingredient), and the end notification sound is a sound that is output when the end notification time is reached. Various times and periods are set for the end notification time depending on the type of food ingredient. For example, in the case of food ingredients for which a period after opening is set (e.g., cut vegetables, beer barrels, etc.), a predetermined number of days (e.g., 1 day, 2 days, etc.) is set. In addition, in the case of food ingredients for which a preparation time is set (e.g., prepared food ingredients such as meat with a thick sauce), a predetermined time (e.g., 1 hour, 2 hours and 30 minutes, etc.) is set. In addition, in the case of food ingredients for which a time after thawing is set (e.g., thawed meat or fish, etc.), a predetermined time (e.g., 2 hours, 3 hours, etc.) is set.

[0038] The preliminary notification time is a time given before the end notification time, and the preliminary notification sound is a sound that is output when the preliminary notification time is reached. The preliminary notification time is set according to the characteristics of each ingredient. For example, in the case of ingredient A, the preliminary notification time can be set to 30 minutes shorter than the end notification time, while in the case of ingredient B, the preliminary notification time can be set to 2 hours shorter than the end notification time.

[0039] The image is an image of a product item displayed in the list 5. The post-time-up measurement flag is a flag that indicates whether or not time measurement will continue after the end notification time is reached. If the post-time-up measurement flag is set to ON, time measurement will continue even after the end notification time is reached. Note that time measurement after the end notification time is reached will end based on the staff member's reset operation.

[0040] In this embodiment, an alert is issued not only when the time measured by the timer 4 reaches the end notification time but also when the advance preliminary notification time is reached, i.e., two-stage alerting is implemented, thereby making it possible to draw the attention of staff more effectively. Furthermore, for product items for which the post-time-up measurement flag is ON, time measurement continues even after the end notification time is reached, so it is possible to measure the response time from the end notification time notification until the staff resets the timer 4, thereby making it possible to judge the promptness of the staff's operation.

[0041] FIG. 6(a) shows an example of a product item setting screen. On the product item setting screen shown in FIG. 6(a), after selecting the relevant product item, it is possible to set the name (product item name), count (counting method), end notification time, end notification sound (end notification sound), preliminary notification time, preliminary notification sound (preliminary notification sound), image, and elapsed time measurement (measurement flag after time up). After selecting the relevant product item, it is also possible to move it to a different tab (group). Also, while FIG. 6(a) shows the case of setting a product item in the "list" operation mode, it is possible to set product items in the same way when the operation mode is "fixed."

[0042] The item setting information 15c of this embodiment allows for the setting of groups (tabs), and the same or similar product items can be classified into the same group (tab), or product items can be classified into groups according to storage location, making it easy to select a desired product item (ingredient) when selecting a product item (ingredient) from the list 5. For example, specifically, as shown in Figures 4(b) and 6(a), it is possible to set tabs for each storage location of the product item (ingredient), such as refrigerator 1, refrigerator 2, and pantry, making it easy to select product items to be handled in one work area and improving work efficiency.

[0043] As shown in Fig. 3(d), the store setting information 15d is data including items such as a store ID, a store name, and staff absence information. The store ID is an ID that can uniquely identify a store in the information processing system 10, and the store name is the name of the store in the information processing system 10. The staff absence information is information when a staff member is absent from the store.

[0044] Staff absence information includes items such as absence time, absence day, and absence notification timing. Absence time is information about the time period when staff are absent, such as outside of store business hours. Information about the time period (from-to) can be set. For example, a time period from 11pm to 9am can be set to match the store's business hours. Absence day is information about the time period when staff are absent, such as store holidays. It is possible to select the day of the week when the store is closed. For example, if Sunday is a holiday, Sunday is selected as the absence day. Hereinafter, absence time and absence day are collectively referred to as the "absence period." It is to be noted that the settings related to the absence period are not limited to the above-mentioned absence time and absence day, and it is also possible to set the absence day (from-to). This is to accommodate temporary closures and long-term closures.

[0045] The notification timing is information regarding the timing of execution of the end notification when the expiration date and time of the ingredient falls within the absence period. Specifically, the notification timing is composed of information indicating whether the end notification is to be sent before or after the absence period. In this embodiment, when the notification timing is "advance," the end notification is sent 10 minutes before the start date and time of the absence period, and a preliminary notification is sent a predetermined time before the date and time of the end notification. Furthermore, when the notification timing is "after," the end notification is sent at the end date and time of the absence period, and a preliminary notification is sent 10 minutes before the start date and time of the absence period.

[0046] Here, when the notification timing is "in advance," the "predetermined time before the date and time of the completion notification" when a preliminary notification is sent is set based on the time interval between the "completion notification time" and the "preliminary notification time" set in the item setting information 15c for that ingredient. For example, if the "completion notification time" for ingredient A is 5 hours and the "preliminary notification time" is 4 hours and 30 minutes (when the time interval is 30 minutes), and the expiration date and time of ingredient A falls during an absence period (for example, from 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM), the completion notification will be sent at 10:50 PM on the same day, and the preliminary notification will be sent at 10:20 PM on the same day.

[0047] Note that when the notification timing is "advance," the end notification is not limited to 10 minutes before the start date and time of the absence period. If the end notification is given just before the absence period, there is no particular limit to the time. Furthermore, when the notification timing is "after," the preliminary notification is not limited to 10 minutes before the start date and time of the absence period. If the preliminary notification is given just before the absence period, there is no particular limit to the time.

[0048] In this embodiment, even if the expiration date of an ingredient falls during a staff member's absence, the completion notification and warning notification are sent before and after the absence period, so the expiration date notification can be given taking into account the absence period of the staff member, and cooking work can be performed while adhering to the expiration date of the ingredients while preventing excessive burden on the staff member (for example, overtime work, etc.). In other words, ingredients can be used effectively, ingredients discarded due to expiration date can be reduced, and expired ingredients can be prevented from being used by mistake.

[0049] 2, the operation log information 16 is operation log information of the timer 4 that has been operated in the information processing device 1. The data configuration of the operation log information 16 is shown schematically in FIG.

[0050] As shown in Fig. 3(e), the operation log information 16 is data including items such as date and time, timer ID, item ID, and time elapsed after time-up. The date and time is the date and time when the timer 4 started operating, the timer ID is the timer ID of the timer 4 to be logged, the item ID is the item ID of the product item to be logged, and the time elapsed after time-up is the time elapsed from when the timer 4 measurement reaches the end notification time until the staff member resets the timer 4. Note that only product items (ingredients) for which the post-time-up measurement flag in the item setting information 15c is ON are recorded as operation log information 16.

[0051] Fig. 6(b) shows a search and display screen for operation log information. The search and display screen for operation log information in Fig. 6(b) can display relevant operation log information by instructing a search for, for example, the timer name (timer name), product name (product item name), relevant period, etc. The elapsed time indicates the time elapsed until the reset operation after the time is up. Note that in this embodiment, operation log information 16 for which one minute or more has elapsed since the time is up is displayed, but this is not limiting. All operation log information 16 for which the notification time has passed may also be displayed.

[0052] In this way, operation log information 16 is log information that indicates how quickly the staff performed the reset operation when the timer 4 operated and reached the desired end notification time. In other words, operation log information 16 can be used as an indicator of staff operation errors and also as an indicator related to the quality of ingredients.

[0053] 2, the control unit 14 is composed of, for example, a CPU, a memory, etc., and realizes a multi-timer function by controlling the storage unit 13, transferring various data, performing various calculations, temporarily storing data, etc. The multi-timer function of the information processing device 1 is realized by executing a timer program 17.

[0054] The control unit 14 functionally includes a timer setting control unit 18 and a timer execution control unit 19.

[0055] The timer setting control unit 18 executes processing related to the setting of the timer 4. Specifically, it executes processing such as registration, change, and deletion of the setting information 15 (information processing device setting information 15a, timer setting information 15b, item setting information 15c, and store setting information 15d).

[0056] The timer execution control unit 19 executes processes related to the execution of the timer 4. In detail, it executes processes such as a timer selection execution process and a timer information transmission process, which will be described later.

[0057] <Configuration of monitoring device> 2(b) is a schematic functional diagram of the monitoring device 2. The monitoring device 2 includes an input / output unit 21, a communication unit 22, a storage unit 23, and a control unit 24.

[0058] The input / output unit 21 serves as both an input unit and an output unit of the monitoring device 2, and is composed of, for example, a touch panel display, a display, a speaker, a mouse, a keyboard, etc. The display unit (display) of the input / output unit 21 in this embodiment displays timer information transmitted from multiple information processing devices 1.

[0059] The communication unit 22 transmits and receives data to and from a plurality of information processing devices 1 via the communication network 3. In this embodiment, timer information is received from a plurality of information processing devices 1.

[0060] The storage unit 23 is composed of, for example, a ROM, a RAM, a hard disk, etc., and is configured to store data, programs, etc. used for control by the control unit 24. In this embodiment, the storage unit 23 stores timer information 25 received from the information processing device 1. The storage unit 23 also stores a monitoring program 26 that displays the timer information 25 received from the information processing device 1 on a display unit (display) and monitors the operating status of the timer 4.

[0061] The monitoring program 26 can be stored not only in the storage unit 23, i.e., in a main storage device such as the memory mentioned above or in an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk, but also in a computer-readable recording medium such as an external hard disk, a flexible disk, a CD (Compact Disc), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), or a BD (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc), or can be distributed via the communication network 3.

[0062] The control unit 24 is composed of, for example, a CPU, a memory, etc., and realizes the monitoring function of the timer 4 by controlling the storage unit 23, transferring various data, performing various calculations, temporarily storing data, etc. The monitoring function of the monitoring device 2 is achieved by executing a monitoring program 26. More specifically, the monitoring function of the control unit 24 is a function of a timer display control unit 27 that executes a timer information display process to display and monitor timer information on a display unit (display).

[0063] <Operation of information processing system> Next, a timer selection and execution process of the information processing device 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of the timer selection and execution process of the information processing device 1. Note that, as a premise, the information processing device 1 generates one or more timers 4 and displays the generated timers 4 on a display unit (display).

[0064] When a staff member selects one timer 4 from one or more timers 4 displayed on the display (step S10), the information processing device 1 activates the selected timer 4 (step S20).

[0065] Next, the information processing device 1 determines the operation mode of the selected timer 4 (step S30).

[0066] * When the operation mode is "List" When the operation mode is "list" (step S30: list), the information processing device 1 (timer 4a) pops up the list 5 (step S40, see FIG. 4(b)). When a staff member selects an item from the list 5 (step S50), the timer 4a sets the time (preliminary notification time, end notification time) associated with the selected product item (ingredient) by referring to the item setting information 15c, and determines whether the set end notification time will arrive during the staff member's absence period (step S60). Specifically, the timer 4a calculates the expiration date and time of the selected product item based on the date and time the product item was selected and the end notification time associated with the selected product item, and determines whether the calculated expiration date and time are included in the absence period. Here, the absence period is based on the absence hours and absence days in the store setting information 15d.

[0067] - When there is no staff absence If the set end notification time is reached when the staff member is not absent (step S60: NO), the timer 4a starts measuring the set time (preliminary notification time, end notification time) (step S70).

[0068] Here, the operation of the timer 4a when the operation mode is "list" will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing changes in the display mode of the timer 4a.

[0069] Figure 8(a) shows the inactive state of the timer 4a. In other words, the timer 4a is not selected, and this is the state before the timer selection and execution process shown in Figure 7 is executed. Note that the timer 4a shown in Figure 4(a) also shows this inactive state.

[0070] FIG. 8(b) shows that timer 4a is in an active state, that is, timer 4a has been selected by the staff member (by pressing the select button on timer 4a), and as a result, timer 4a has entered an active state (steps S10, S20). In the state shown in FIG. 8(b), compared to the state shown in FIG. 8(a), the color of the text on timer 4 remains unchanged, but the background color has changed (for example, from gray to black). This allows the staff member to understand that timer 4a has entered an active state. After this, a reset button is displayed in place of the select button (not shown in FIG. 8(b)), and list 5 is displayed as a pop-up (step S40, see FIG. 4(b)).

[0071] 8(c) shows the state of the timer 4a at time t1 when a product item (ingredient) is selected from the pop-up list 5. At this time t1, the list 5 is cleared, the timer 4a displays the product item name and expiration date and time of the selected product item, and starts running (step S70). In other words, at time t1 when an item is selected from the list 5, the timer 4a starts measuring the end notification time and preliminary notification time for the selected product item.

[0072] 7, the information processing device 1 (timer 4a) then determines whether the preliminary notification time has elapsed since the start of measurement (step S80). If the preliminary notification time has elapsed (step S80: YES), the information processing device 1 (timer 4a) notifies the user of the preliminary notification time (step S90), and if the preliminary notification time has not elapsed (step S80: NO), the information processing device 1 (timer 4a) waits until the preliminary notification time has elapsed.

[0073] 8(d) shows the preliminary notification state of the timer 4a. The preliminary notification state is a state from time t2, when the preliminary notification time has elapsed, to time t3, when the end notification time has elapsed. In the preliminary notification state, the information processing device 1 changes the background of the timer 4a to a first display mode (for example, a yellow background color) that calls attention, and also outputs a preliminary notification sound in a first sound output mode that calls attention (for example, sound output at a predetermined volume that can be heard by staff while working), thereby notifying the user that the preliminary notification time has elapsed.

[0074] 7, the information processing device 1 (timer 4a) then determines whether the end notification time has elapsed since the start of measurement (step S100). If the end notification time has elapsed (step S100: YES), the information processing device 1 (timer 4a) notifies the end notification time (step S110), and if the end notification time has not elapsed (step S100: NO), the information processing device 1 (timer 4a) waits until the end notification time has elapsed.

[0075] FIG. 8(e) shows the end notification state of the timer 4a. The end notification state is the state from time t3, when the end notification time has elapsed, until a reset operation is performed. In the end notification state, the information processing device 1 changes the background of the timer 4a to a second display mode (e.g., a display mode that alternately flashes red and black) that is more alert than the first display mode, and also outputs a notification sound in a second sound output mode (e.g., a sound output that is louder than the first sound output mode) that calls attention more than the first sound output mode. Note that the end notification sound is preferably a sound different from the preliminary notification sound, but they may be the same sound. In addition, in the end notification state, the reset button becomes active, and a reset operation by a staff member can be accepted.

[0076] Furthermore, when a product item with a time-up measurement flag set to ON is selected, the timer 4a measures the time after the end notification time has elapsed and displays the measured time on the timer unit 43. The time after the notification time has elapsed is displayed in a count-up format. Figure 9 shows the end notification state of the timer 4a when a product item with a time-up measurement flag set to ON is selected.

[0077] Returning to FIG. 7, next, the information processing device 1 (timer 4a) determines whether or not a reset operation by the staff member has been accepted after the passage time has elapsed (step S120). If a reset operation has been accepted (step S120: YES), the information processing device 1 deactivates the timer 4a and ends the timer selection execution process. In addition, the elapsed time until the reset operation (the elapsed time after the time expires) is recorded in the storage unit 13 as operation log information 16. Note that if a reset operation has not been accepted (step S120: NO), the information processing device 1 waits until a reset operation is accepted.

[0078] -When staff are absent On the other hand, if the set end notification time is reached during the staff absence period (step S60: YES), the information processing device 1 (timer 4a) changes the end notification time and the preliminary notification time (step S140). The timer 4a starts measuring the changed end notification time and the preliminary notification time (step S150).

[0079] Specifically, the information processing device 1 (timer 4a) changes the preliminary notification time and the end notification time based on the information (before, after) set for the absence notification timing in the store setting information 15d. Specifically, if the absence notification timing is set to "before," the end notification time is changed so that the end notification date and time is a predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes before) before the start date and time of the absence period, and the preliminary notification time is changed so that the end notification date and time is a predetermined time (for example, 30 minutes before) before the end notification time. Also, if the absence notification timing is set to "after," the end notification time is changed so that the end date and time of the absence period is the end notification date and time, and the preliminary notification time is changed so that the preliminary notification time is a predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes before) before the start date and time of the absence period. As a result, the end notification and preliminary notification will not be issued while the staff member is absent.

[0080] In this embodiment, when the end notification time is changed, the expiration date and time based on the changed end notification time is displayed on the timer section 43 of the timer 4 (see FIG. 8(c)), but this is not limiting. For example, the expiration date and time based on the originally set end notification time may be displayed on the timer section 43 of the timer 4, or both the expiration date and time based on the originally set end notification time and the expiration date and time based on the changed end notification time may be displayed on the timer section 43 of the timer 4.

[0081] The process from step S150 onward in FIG. 8 is the same as when the initially set end notification time arrives when the staff member is not absent (step S60: NO), and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0082] ○When the operation mode is "fixed" If the operating mode is "fixed" (step S30: fixed), the information processing device 1 sets a time (preliminary notification time, end notification time) associated with the product item that is fixedly set in the timer 4b, and determines whether the set end notification time will be reached during a period when staff are absent (step S60).

[0083] - When there is no staff absence If the set end notification time is reached while the staff member is not absent (step S60: NO), the timer 4a starts measuring the set time (step S70).

[0084] Here, the operation of the timer 4b when the operation mode is "fixed" will be described using Figure 5. Figures 5(a) and (b) show the inactive state of the timer 4b. The inactive state is a state in which operation of the start button is not accepted, and the active state is a state in which operation of the start button is accepted. When the start button is operated by the staff member, the timer 4b in the inactive state becomes active, and the timer 4b starts measuring time (step S70). In other words, when the start button is operated, the timer 4b starts measuring the preliminary notification time and the end notification time.

[0085] The processing from step S80 onwards in FIG. 7 is the same as when the operation mode is "list", and therefore the explanation will be omitted.

[0086] -When staff are absent On the other hand, if the set end notification time is reached during the staff absence period (step S60: YES), the information processing device 1 (timer 4a) changes the end notification time and the preliminary notification time (step S140). The timer 4a starts measuring the changed end notification time and the preliminary notification time (step S150).

[0087] The process from step S150 onward in FIG. 8 is the same as when the initially set end notification time arrives when the staff member is not absent (step S60: NO), and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0088] As described above, the timer selection and execution process of the information processing device 1 according to this embodiment allows timer execution according to the operation mode, allowing staff to quickly complete the process from detailed time setting according to product items (types and quantities of ingredients) to starting the timer. Furthermore, when the operation mode is list mode, a list of product item groups (types and quantities of ingredients) appropriate for the work area is displayed by default, allowing staff to select from this list, enabling accurate time setting regardless of their level of proficiency in food management. Furthermore, since a two-stage warning is issued after the timer is activated, staff can be alerted twice, thereby more reliably managing the expiration dates of ingredients. This reduces food waste and prevents the accidental use of expired ingredients. Furthermore, the time from the notification time to the reset operation is also recorded as operation log information, which can be useful for streamlining and improving kitchen operations.

[0089] Furthermore, according to the timer selection and execution process of the information processing device 1 of this embodiment, the end notification time and preliminary notification time are automatically set taking into account the time when store staff are absent, so that the expiration date of ingredients can be managed without placing an excessive burden on staff.

[0090] Next, a timer monitoring process of the information processing system 10 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of the timer monitoring process of the information processing system 10. The timer monitoring process of the information processing system 10 is made up of a timer information transmission process of the information processing device 1 and a timer information display process of the monitoring device 2.

[0091] Note that the timer monitoring process shown in Figure 10 shows the processing flow when one information processing device 1 transmits timer information of one timer 4 to the monitoring device 2, but in reality, each of multiple information processing devices 1 transmits timer information from each of multiple timers 4 operating within the information processing device 1 to the monitoring device 2.

[0092] The information processing device 1 causes the timer 4 to start measuring (step S210), and when it determines that the preliminary notification time has elapsed since the start of measurement (step S220: YES), it transmits first timer information 7 (step S230). The first timer information 7 is information indicating the operating status of the timer 4 at the time when the preliminary notification time has elapsed. In this embodiment, information regarding the display mode of the timer 4 shown in FIG. 8(d) (specifically, an image of the timer window in the display mode of the preliminary notification state shown in FIG. 8(d)) is transmitted to the monitoring device 2 as the first timer information 7, but is not limited to this. The first timer information 7 may include at least the terminal ID of the information processing device 1 that transmitted the first timer information 7, the timer ID of the timer 4 that has reached the preliminary notification time, and information indicating that the preliminary notification time has been reached.

[0093] When the monitoring device 2 receives the first timer information 7 (step S240), the monitoring device 2 displays the first timer information 7 on the display unit (display) based on the received first timer information 7 (step S250).

[0094] Next, when the information processing device 1 determines that the end notification time has elapsed since the start of measurement (step S260: YES), it transmits second timer information 8 (step S230). The second timer information 8 is information indicating the operating status of the timer 4 at the time when the end notification time has elapsed. In this embodiment, information regarding the display mode of the timer 4 shown in FIG. 8(e) (specifically, an image of the timer window in the display mode of the notification state shown in FIG. 8(e)) is transmitted to the monitoring device 2 as the second timer information 8, but is not limited to this. The second timer information 8 may include at least the terminal ID of the information processing device 1 that transmitted the second timer information 8, the timer ID of the timer 4 that has reached the end notification time, and information indicating that the end notification time has been reached.

[0095] When the monitoring device 2 receives the second timer information 8 (step S280), it displays the second timer information 8 on the display unit (display) in place of the first timer information 7 based on the received second timer information 8 (step S290).

[0096] Next, if the information processing device 1 receives a reset operation from the staff member after the end time has elapsed (step S300: YES), it transmits reset operation information (step S310). The reset operation information is information indicating that a reset operation has been received. The reset operation information may include at least the terminal ID of the information processing device 1 that transmitted the reset operation information and the timer ID of the timer 4 on which the reset operation was performed.

[0097] When the monitoring device 2 receives the reset operation information (step S320), it erases the second timer information 8 displayed on the display unit (display) (step S330).

[0098] Fig. 11 shows an example of the display mode on the display unit (display) of the monitoring device 2. In Fig. 11, the monitoring device 2 displays the first timer information 7 in a first size, and the second timer information 8 in a second size larger than the first size. In other words, the second timer information 8 is displayed in a more noticeable display mode than the first timer information. Note that the second timer information 8 is displayed after the notification time has elapsed until a reset operation is performed, so that the monitor can visually check the second timer information 8 to identify product items for which a reset operation has not been performed.

[0099] As described above, according to the timer monitoring process of the information processing system 10 of this embodiment, the manager can monitor the operating status of multiple timers 4 in multiple information processing devices 1 under the management of the information processing system 10 by visually checking the monitoring display unit of the monitoring device 2. Furthermore, the monitoring device 2 displays the timer information of timers 4 that have passed the end notification time in a conspicuous display mode, and this information is displayed until a reset operation is performed, so that the manager can easily grasp the operating status of the kitchen.

[0100] If the measured time after the end notification time has elapsed exceeds a predetermined threshold (e.g., 5 minutes), the monitoring device 2 may change the timer information displayed in the second display mode to a third display mode (e.g., a display mode in which the flashing interval between red and black is shortened to increase the level of warning compared to the second display mode) and display it on the monitoring display unit. This makes it possible to further highlight poorly performed kitchen work. In this case, the information processing device 1 transmits third timer information when the measured time after the end notification time has elapsed reaches a predetermined threshold. The third timer information may include at least the terminal ID of the information processing device 1 that transmitted the third timer information, the timer ID of the timer 4 that reached the threshold, and information indicating that the threshold has been reached.

[0101] Furthermore, although the monitoring device 2 is configured to display the timer information on the monitoring display unit in the same display format as the display format of the timer 4 of the information processing device 1, it may be displayed in a different display format. For example, the names of the information processing device 1 and the timer 4 may be displayed in each window so that the information processing device 1 can be more easily identified. Furthermore, if the monitor wants to carefully monitor a specific information processing device 1 or timer 4, the specific information processing device 1 or timer 4 may be displayed prominently in a special display format.

[0102] <Other variations> - Linking with external devices Although the information processing system 10 of the above embodiment has not described the linkage between the information processing device 1 and an external device (for example, another information processing system that manages the expiration dates of ingredients), it is of course possible to link the information processing device 1 and the external device in the information processing system 10. Specifically, the information processing device 1 and the external device may be configured to be able to communicate with each other via a communication network 3, and the information processing device 1 may operate a predetermined timer 4 upon receiving information relating to the expiration date of an ingredient from the external device (for example, information including at least the ingredient item ID, timer operation date and time, end notification time, and preliminary notification time) to measure a desired time (end notification time, preliminary notification time).

[0103] ·Monitoring timer information for multiple restaurants Although the monitoring device 2 in the above embodiment is configured to monitor the timers 4 of multiple information processing devices 1 installed in one restaurant, it may also be configured to monitor the timers 4 of multiple information processing devices 1 installed in multiple restaurants. The administrator can centrally manage the timers 4 across multiple restaurants. In this case, the setting information 15 is configured with information including the store ID.

[0104] -Configuration in which the information processing device does not store setting information Although the information processing system 10 of the above embodiment is configured so that the information processing device 1 has the setting information 15, it may also be configured so that an external database (an external storage device capable of communicating with the information processing device 1) has the setting information 15. In this case, the information processing device 1 is configured to acquire the corresponding setting information 15 from the external database.

[0105] <Summary of the embodiment> As described above, the information processing device 1 according to the present embodiment: An information processing device capable of displaying a plurality of timers for managing expiration dates of ingredients used in a store at desired positions on a display unit, a first storage unit (e.g., storage unit 13) that stores, for each food ingredient, a first time (e.g., a preliminary notification time) before the expiration date for preliminary notification and a second time (e.g., an end notification time) indicating the expiration date; a second storage unit (e.g., storage unit 13) that stores a first period (e.g., absence time, absence day) related to the absence time of the staff of the store; A timer operation unit (for example, steps S10 and S20 in FIG. 7) that activates a timer selected by a staff member from among a plurality of timers displayed on the display unit; a list display unit (e.g., step S40 in FIG. 7) that displays a list of ingredients associated with the timer that has been activated (hereinafter referred to as the active timer); an expiration date information acquisition unit (e.g., step S50 in FIG. 8) that acquires from a first storage unit a first time and a second time corresponding to an ingredient selected by a staff member from the list; an expiration date calculation unit (for example, step S60 in FIG. 7) that calculates an expiration date and time of the selected ingredient based on the second time acquired by the expiration date information acquisition unit; an expiration date and time display unit (e.g., FIG. 8(c)) that displays the expiration date and time calculated by the expiration date and time calculation unit on the active timer; a measurement start unit (e.g., steps S50 and S70 in FIG. 8) that sets the first time and the second time acquired by the expiration date information acquisition unit in an active timer and causes the active timer to start measuring the first time and the second time; a first notification unit (e.g., steps S80 and S90 in FIG. 7) that, when the active timer measures a first time period, sets the active timer to a first notification mode including a first display mode and a first sound output mode to notify the user that the first time period has elapsed; a second notification unit (e.g., steps S100 and S110 in FIG. 7) that, when the active timer measures a second time period, sets the active timer to a second notification mode that includes a second display mode and a second sound output mode, which are different from the first notification mode, to notify the user of the passage of the second time period; a timer operation termination unit (e.g., steps S120 and S130 in FIG. 7) that deactivates the active timer based on a reset operation of the active timer by the staff member after the second notification unit notifies the elapse of the second time period; Equipped with The expiration date and time calculation unit a second time change unit (e.g., step S140 in FIG. 7) that changes the second time acquired by the expiration information acquisition unit so that the expiration date and time is before or after the first period when the calculated expiration date and time is included in the first period acquired from the second storage unit (hereinafter referred to as "in the case of an absence period"); a first time changing unit (e.g., step S140 in FIG. 7) that changes the first time based on the change of the second time acquired by the second time changing unit when the second time changing unit changes the second time acquired; Equipped with If the calculated expiration date and time is an absence period, the measurement start unit sets the changed first time and the changed second time in the active timer and causes the active timer to start measuring the first time and the second time (for example, step S150 in FIG. 7 ); This is the basic structure.

[0106] The basic configuration of the information processing device 1 allows multiple timers to be displayed in desired positions on the display unit. For example, multiple timers can be arranged and displayed corresponding to multiple sections or areas of kitchen equipment that store ingredients. This allows multiple timers to be operated simultaneously without confusing staff, even when managing expiration dates for ingredients in multiple sections or areas of kitchen equipment simultaneously. Furthermore, a first time and a second time can be set corresponding to an item (ingredient) selected by the staff from a list, allowing for quick and accurate expiration date setting according to the type and quantity of ingredients, regardless of the staff's level of expertise in ingredient management. Furthermore, after the timer is activated, different notifications are issued in two stages, upon the passage of the first time and the second time, so staff can be alerted twice. As a result, a user-friendly multi-timer can be provided that facilitates expiration date management for ingredients in restaurant kitchens, reducing food waste and preventing the accidental use of expired ingredients.

[0107] Furthermore, according to the basic configuration of the information processing device 1, even if the expiration date and time of ingredients falls during an absence period, the date and time can be changed to before or after the absence period, and two notifications, one for the passage of the first time and one for the passage of the second time, can be sent during the hours when staff are in the store, so that expiration dates of ingredients can be managed without imposing excessive work loads on staff.

[0108] Furthermore, in the basic configuration, the information processing device 1 according to this embodiment has the following features: a third storage unit (for example, storage unit 13) that stores notification timing information (for example, notification timing when the user is absent) regarding the notification timing when the expiration date and time of use is an absent period; the second time changer, when the notification timing information indicates a time before the first period, changes the second time to a time from the measurement start point to a time a predetermined time before the start point of the first period; The first time change unit the first time changer changes the first time based on the time interval between the first time and the second time stored in the first storage unit; This is a preferred configuration.

[0109] According to a preferred configuration of this information processing device 1, even if the expiration date and time of an ingredient falls during an absence period, the expiration date and time can be changed before the absence period, and two notifications, one for the passage of the first time and one for the passage of the second time, can be issued during the hours when staff are in the store, allowing expiration date management of ingredients without imposing excessive work loads on staff. Furthermore, since two notifications are issued while maintaining the predetermined time interval between the first and second times, it is possible to issue two reminders at the same time interval as when the expiration date and time of an ingredient falls during a period other than an absence period.

[0110] Furthermore, in the basic configuration, the information processing device 1 according to this embodiment has the following features: A log information storage unit (e.g., storage unit 13) is provided to store information relating to the operation history of the active timer (e.g., operation log information 16), The active timer can further measure a third time period (for example, a time period after the time is up) from the time when the second time period has elapsed until a staff member resets the active timer, The information about the operation history includes the operation date and time of the active timer, information that can uniquely identify the active timer, the selected ingredient, and a third time. It is preferable.

[0111] This allows the time from when the second time period has elapsed until the reset operation to be recorded as operation log information, and analyzing this operation log information can be useful in streamlining and improving kitchen operations.

[0112] Furthermore, in the basic configuration, the information processing device 1 according to this embodiment has the following features: The list is one of multiple types of lists prepared in advance, The plurality of types of lists correspond to respective locations where the information processing devices are installed, The active timer is associated with at least one of a plurality of lists. It is preferable.

[0113] This allows the most suitable list for the location where the information processing device is installed to be displayed from among multiple types of lists, allowing staff to select ingredients that suit their work area.

[0114] Moreover, the information processing system 10 according to this embodiment includes: An information processing system including a plurality of information processing devices (hereinafter referred to as an information processing device group) having the above-described configuration, and a monitoring device (e.g., monitoring device 2) that can communicate with the information processing device group via a communication network and can display the measurement status of each active timer operating in the information processing device group on a monitoring display unit, The information processing devices each transmit information about the operating status of each active timer to the monitoring device at a predetermined timing; the monitoring device displays information about the operating status transmitted from each of the active timers of the information processing device group on a monitoring display unit; This is the basic structure.

[0115] According to the basic configuration of the information processing system 10, the monitoring device displays information relating to the operating status of the active timer of the information processing device, so that the manager can monitor the operational status of the staff.

[0116] Furthermore, the information processing system 10 according to this embodiment has the above basic configuration. the predetermined timing includes at least a time when a first time period and a time when a second time period of the active timer has elapsed, and a time when a reset operation is performed on the active timer; the monitoring device displays the active timer in a first display mode when a first time has elapsed, displays the active timer in a second display mode when a second time has elapsed, and erases the active timer that has been displayed in the second display mode at the timing of a reset operation; This is a preferred configuration.

[0117] With this preferred configuration, the manager can visually check the progress of the active timer (the passage of the first time, the passage of the second time, and the reset operation), making it easy to grasp the operating status of the kitchen.

[0118] The timer program 17 for the information processing device 1 according to this embodiment is An information processing device capable of displaying a plurality of timers for managing expiration dates of ingredients used in a store at desired positions on a display unit, a first storage unit that stores, for each food ingredient, a first time before the expiration date for preliminary notification and a second time indicating the expiration date; a second storage unit that stores a first period relating to the absence of staff at the store; a timer operation unit that activates a timer selected by a staff member from among the plurality of timers displayed on the display unit; a list display unit that displays a list of ingredients associated with the timer that has been activated (hereinafter referred to as the active timer); an expiration date information acquisition unit that acquires, from a first storage unit, a first time and a second time corresponding to an ingredient selected by a staff member from the list; an expiration date calculation unit that calculates an expiration date and time of the selected ingredient based on the second time acquired by the expiration date information acquisition unit; an expiration date and time display unit that displays the expiration date and time calculated by the expiration date and time calculation unit on the active timer; a measurement start unit that sets the first time and the second time acquired by the expiration date information acquisition unit in an active timer and causes the active timer to start measuring the first time and the second time; a first notification unit that, when the active timer measures a first time period, sets the active timer to a first notification mode including a first display mode and a first sound output mode, thereby notifying the user that the first time period has elapsed; a second notification unit that, when the active timer measures a second time period, sets the active timer to a second notification mode that includes a second display mode and a second sound output mode different from the first notification mode, thereby notifying the user of the passage of the second time period; a timer operation termination unit that, after the second notification unit notifies the elapse of the second time period, makes the active timer inactive based on a reset operation of the active timer by a staff member; and make it work, The expiration date and time calculation unit a second time change unit that changes the acquired second time when the calculated expiration date and time is included in the first period acquired from the second storage unit (hereinafter referred to as "in the case of an absence period") so that the expiration date and time is before or after the first period; a first time changing unit that, when the second time changing unit changes the acquired second time, changes the first time based on the change of the second time; Equipped with the measurement start unit, when the calculated expiration date and time is an absence period, sets the changed first time and the changed second time in the active timer and causes the active timer to start measuring the first time and the second time; This is the basic structure.

[0119] The basic configuration of the timer program 17 allows multiple timers to be displayed in desired positions on the display. For example, multiple timers can be arranged and displayed corresponding to multiple sections or areas of the kitchen equipment that stores ingredients. This allows multiple timers to be operated simultaneously without confusing staff, even when managing expiration dates for ingredients in multiple sections or areas of the kitchen equipment. Furthermore, the first and second times can be set corresponding to items (ingredients) selected by staff from a list, allowing for quick and accurate expiration date setting according to the type and quantity of ingredients, regardless of the staff's level of expertise in ingredient management. Furthermore, after the timer is activated, different notifications are issued in two stages, upon the passage of the first and second times, so staff can be alerted twice. As a result, a multi-timer that facilitates expiration date management of ingredients in restaurant kitchens and is easy to use can be provided, which reduces food waste and prevents the accidental use of expired ingredients.

[0120] Furthermore, according to the basic configuration of the timer program 17, even if the expiration date and time of the food ingredients falls during the absence period, the date and time can be changed to before or after the absence period, so that the two notifications, upon the passage of the first time and the second time, can be made during the hours when the staff are in the store, thereby enabling the expiration date of the food ingredients to be managed without imposing excessive work load on the staff.

[0121] The monitoring program 26 for the monitoring device 2 according to this embodiment is An information processing program for a monitoring device that can communicate with a plurality of information processing devices (hereinafter referred to as an information processing device group) having the above-described configuration via a communication network and can display the operating status of each active timer operating in the information processing device group on a monitoring display unit, The information processing devices each transmit information about the operating status of each active timer to the monitoring device at a predetermined timing; Surveillance equipment, functioning as a means for displaying information on the operating status of each active timer, which information is transmitted at a predetermined timing from each of the information processing devices, on the monitoring display unit; the predetermined timing includes at least a time when a first time period and a time when a second time period of the active timer has elapsed, and a time when a reset operation is performed on the active timer; the monitoring device displays the active timer in a first display mode when a first time has elapsed, displays the active timer in a second display mode when a second time has elapsed, and erases the active timer that has been displayed in the second display mode at the timing of a reset operation; This is the basic structure.

[0122] According to the basic configuration of the monitoring program 26, the monitoring device displays information about the operating status of the active timer of the information processing device, and the manager can visually check the progress of the active timer (elapse of the first time, elapse of the second time, whether a reset operation has been performed), thereby making it easy to grasp the operating status of the kitchen.

[0123] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and changes can be made to the embodiments of the present invention without departing from the gist of the present invention, and such modifications and changes are also included in the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the functions and effects described in the embodiments of the invention are merely a list of the most preferable functions and effects resulting from the present invention, and the functions and effects of the present invention are not limited to those described in the embodiments of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0124] 1. Information processing equipment 2 Monitoring device 3. Communication Network 4. Timer 5 List 7 First timer information 8 Second timer information 10 Information Processing Systems 11,21 Input / output section 12,22 Communications Department 13,23 Storage section 14,24 Control unit 15. Configuration Information 16 Operation log information 17 Timer Program 18 Timer setting control section 19 Timer execution control section 25 Timer Information 26 Surveillance Program 27 Timer information display control section

Claims

1. An information processing device capable of displaying a plurality of timers for managing expiration dates of ingredients used in a store at desired positions on a display unit, a first storage unit that stores, for each food ingredient, a first time before the expiration date for preliminary notification and a second time indicating the expiration date; a second storage unit that stores a first period relating to the absence of staff at the store; a timer operation unit that activates a timer selected by a staff member from among the plurality of timers displayed on the display unit; a list display unit that displays a list of ingredients associated with the timer that has been activated (hereinafter referred to as the active timer); an expiration date information acquisition unit that acquires, from the first storage unit, the first time and the second time corresponding to an ingredient selected by a staff member from the list; an expiration date calculation unit that calculates an expiration date and time of the selected ingredient based on the second time acquired by the expiration date information acquisition unit; an expiration date and time display unit that displays the expiration date and time calculated by the expiration date and time calculation unit on the active timer; a measurement start unit that sets the first time and the second time acquired by the expiration date information acquisition unit in an active timer and causes the active timer to start measuring the first time and the second time; a first notification unit that, when the active timer measures the first time period, sets the active timer to a first notification mode including a first display mode and a first sound output mode, thereby notifying the user of the passage of the first time period; a second notification unit that, when the active timer measures the second time period, sets the active timer to a second notification mode having a second display mode and a second sound output mode different from the first notification mode, thereby notifying the user of the passage of the second time period; a timer operation termination unit that, after the second notification unit notifies the elapse of the second time period, makes the active timer inactive based on a reset operation of the active timer by a staff member; Equipped with The expiration date and time calculation unit a second time change unit that changes the second time acquired by the expiration information acquisition unit so that the expiration date and time is before or after the first period when the calculated expiration date and time is included in the first period acquired from the second storage unit (hereinafter referred to as "in the case of an absence period"); a first time changing unit that, when the second time changing unit changes the second time, changes the first time based on the change of the second time; Equipped with the measurement start unit, when the calculated expiration date and time is an absence period, sets the changed first time and the changed second time in the active timer and causes the active timer to start measuring the first time and the second time; 1. An information processing device comprising:

2. a third storage unit that stores notification timing information regarding notification timing when the expiration date and time falls within an absence period; the second time changer changes the second time to a time from a measurement start point to a time point a predetermined time before the start point of the first time period when the notification timing information indicates a time before the first time period; The first time change unit the first time changer changes the first time based on the time interval between the first time and the second time stored in the first storage unit; 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

3. a log information storage unit that stores information about an operation history of the active timer; The active timer is further capable of measuring a third time period from the time when the second time period has elapsed until a reset operation by a staff member is performed on the active timer, The information about the operation history includes an operation date and time of the active timer, information that can uniquely identify the active timer, the selected ingredient, and the third time period.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

4. The list is one of a plurality of types of lists prepared in advance, the plurality of types of lists correspond to respective locations where the information processing devices are installed, The active timer is associated with at least one of the plurality of types of lists.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

5. 5. An information processing system comprising: a plurality of information processing devices (hereinafter referred to as an information processing device group) according to claim 1; and a monitoring device capable of communicating with the information processing device group via a communication network and capable of displaying the measurement status of each of the active timers operating in the information processing device group on a monitoring display unit, the information processing devices each transmit information about the operation status of the active timer to the monitoring device at a predetermined timing; the monitoring device displays information about the operating status transmitted from each of the active timers of the information processing device group on the monitoring display unit. An information processing system comprising:

6. the predetermined timing includes at least the time when the first time period and the time when the second time period of the active timer have elapsed, and the time when the reset operation is performed on the active timer; the monitoring device displays the active timer in the first display mode when the first time has elapsed, displays the active timer in the second display mode when the second time has elapsed, and erases the active timer that has been displayed in the second display mode at the timing of the reset operation.

6. The information processing system according to claim 5.

7. An information processing program that causes a computer to function as each unit of the information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

8. 5. An information processing program for a monitoring device capable of communicating with a plurality of information processing devices (hereinafter referred to as an information processing device group) according to claim 1 via a communication network, and capable of displaying the operation status of each of the active timers operating in the information processing device group on a monitoring display unit, the information processing devices each transmit information about the operation status of the active timer to the monitoring device at a predetermined timing; The monitoring device and causing the monitoring display unit to function as a means for displaying information on the operating status of each of the active timers, which information is transmitted at a predetermined timing from each of the information processing devices; the predetermined timing includes at least the time when the first time period and the time when the second time period of the active timer have elapsed, and the time when the reset operation is performed on the active timer; the monitoring device displays the active timer in the first display mode when the first time has elapsed, displays the active timer in the second display mode when the second time has elapsed, and erases the active timer that has been displayed in the second display mode at the timing of the reset operation. An information processing program characterized by:

Images