Optical information reading terminal and data totalization system

Abstract

To provide an optical information reading terminal and a data totalization system in which it is easy to investigate information about work performed by using the optical information reading terminal.SOLUTION: An optical information reading terminal 10 comprises: a capturing unit 14; a reading unit 31; a storage unit 18 which stores work selection application 36a and identification information 39; a display unit 12 which displays display information; a control unit 15; and a communication unit 19. The capturing unit 14 captures a symbol to generate an input image. The reading unit 31 reads out symbol information on the basis of the input image. The work selection application 36a makes a worker select an execution work item. The identification information 39 identifies the optical information reading terminal or the worker. The communication unit 19 communicates with an external information processing device. The control unit 15 transmits terminal data in which the symbol information and the execution work item are associated with the identification information 39, via the communication unit 19.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an optical information reading terminal and a data collection system. [Background technology]

[0002] An optical information reading device and an optical information reading method are disclosed in Patent Document 1. The optical information reading device described in Patent Document 1 captures an image of a symbol to be read, reads information from the symbol, and outputs read data. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-055006 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In facilities where such optical information readers are used (such as logistics warehouses), multiple workers often work within the facility, and multiple optical information readers are prepared, with different workers using different optical information readers to perform their work.

[0005] There are multiple types of work that workers perform (for example, retrieval work, retrieval work, etc.), and the same worker may perform different types of work at different times of the day. Also, the same optical information reader may be used by different workers at different times of the day, or the same worker may use different optical information readers at different times of the day.

[0006] However, conventional optical information reading devices simply read the information of the imaged symbol and output the read data, and do not output information that is not directly related to the symbol information, such as information about the type (item) of work performed by the worker, information unique to each optical information reading device, or information about the worker using the device.

[0007] Therefore, in facilities where conventional optical information reading devices are used, it has been difficult to find information that is not directly related to the symbol information, such as the type of work the worker was performing, the optical information reading device's unique information, and information about the worker, from the output reading data.

[0008] In view of the above problems, the present invention aims to provide an optical information reading terminal and a data collection system that makes it easy to check information regarding work performed using the optical information reading terminal based on data output from the optical information reading terminal. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, an optical information reading terminal captures an image of a symbol to be read and reads symbol information represented by the symbol, and includes an imaging unit, a reading unit, a memory unit, a display unit, a communication unit, and a control unit. The imaging unit captures an image of the symbol and generates an input image. The reading unit reads the symbol information based on the input image. The memory unit stores a task selection application that allows a worker performing a task using the symbol information read by the reading unit to select an execution task item from multiple task items, and identification information that identifies the optical information reading terminal or the worker. The display unit displays display information including a screen of the task selection application for selecting an execution task item. The communication unit communicates with an external information processing device. The control unit transmits terminal data, in which the symbol information read by the reading unit and the execution task item selected via the task selection application are associated with identification information related to the optical information reading terminal itself, to the information processing device via the communication unit.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present invention, a data tallying system includes one or more of the optical information reading terminals described above, an information processing device, and a display device. The information processing device communicates with the optical information reading terminals. The display device performs display based on a signal received from the information processing device. The information processing device includes a second communication unit that receives terminal data from the one or more optical information reading terminals, a tallying processing unit that generates tally results regarding work performed by workers based on the terminal data, and a display processing unit that displays the tally results on the display device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the optical information reading terminal and data collection system of the present invention, it becomes easy to check information about work performed using the optical information reading terminal based on data output from the optical information reading terminal. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a data collection system including an optical information reading terminal. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of an optical information reading terminal. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of an information processing device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the optical information reading terminal. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the flow of operations of the information processing device. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of identification information. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of terminal data. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of terminal data. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a login screen. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of a work selection application. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of a counting result. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of a display screen of the tally results. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an application creation screen. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or equivalent parts will be designated by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will not be repeated. In the following description, terms indicating positions or directions, such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right," may be used. These terms are used for convenience to facilitate understanding of the embodiments, and unless otherwise clearly stated, do not relate to directions in actual implementation.

[0014] Hereinafter, a data collection system 100 including an optical information reading terminal 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0015] First, the operations performed in the data collection system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram schematically showing a data collection system 100 including an optical information reading terminal 10.

[0016] The data collection system 100 includes one or more optical information reading terminals 10, an information processing device 40, and a display device 42. The optical information reading terminal 10 captures an image of a symbol 20 to be read and reads symbol information represented by the symbol 20. The information processing device 40 communicates with the optical information reading terminal 10. The display device 42 displays information based on a signal received from the information processing device 40.

[0017] The optical information reading terminal 10 is a device that can be carried by a worker (not shown) who performs work using the symbol information represented by the symbol 20 in the data collection system 100, and is sometimes called a handheld terminal. The optical information reading terminal 10 includes a display unit 12, an input unit 13, and an imaging unit 14. The optical information reading terminal 10 is covered with a housing, and the display unit 12 and the input unit 13 are provided on the top surface of the housing. The imaging unit 14 is provided at the tip of the housing.

[0018] The display unit 12 displays various information to the worker. The display unit 12 is, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic EL display. The input unit 13 accepts various inputs to the optical information reading terminal 10. The input unit 13 includes a plurality of operation keys such as a numeric keypad, a power key, function keys, and a trigger key. The display unit 12 may be a touch panel display that also functions as the input unit 13.

[0019] The imaging unit 14 captures an image of the symbol 20 to generate an input image. The imaging unit 14 is, for example, a camera unit including an image sensor, such as a CMOS or CCD, that converts light into an electrical signal, and an optical element (such as a lens) that collects reflected light from the symbol 20 and makes it incident on the image sensor.

[0020] In addition, the optical information reading terminal 10 may include a power supply unit, an illumination unit, etc. (not shown). The power supply unit supplies driving power to the optical information reading terminal 10. The illumination unit emits aiming light to assist the imaging unit 14 in capturing an image of the symbol 20.

[0021] The symbol 20 represents information in an optically readable form, and examples of the symbol 20 include a barcode and a two-dimensional code. The symbol 20 may be any optically readable material, and may be, for example, a character string that directly represents the content of the information. The symbol 20 is displayed on the surface of an item that is the subject of work in the data collection system 100. For example, the symbol 20 may be printed directly on the surface of a commercial product, or a label with the symbol 20 printed on it may be affixed to the surface of the item. One specific example of the content included in the information represented by the symbol (symbol information) is the product name of the commercial product on which the symbol 20 is displayed.

[0022] The information processing device 40 is a device that manages work performed within the data collection system 100. The information processing device 40 communicates with the optical information reading terminal 10 by wireless communication or the like, and sends data to the optical information reading terminal 10 to give instructions to workers and perform collection processing based on data received from the optical information reading terminal 10. The information processing device 40 is, for example, a computer that functions as a server device.

[0023] The information processing device 40 is connected to the display device 42 via a video cable 41 such as an HDMI (registered trademark) cable. The display device 42 is, for example, a liquid crystal display monitor. The display device 42 performs display based on a signal received from the information processing device 40 via the video cable 41.

[0024] In the data collection system 100, a plurality of workers perform work using optical information reading terminals 10. There are a plurality of types (items) of work that the workers perform using symbol information, such as warehousing work and retrieval work, and the workers use the optical information reading terminals 10 to capture an image of the symbol 20 attached to the item to be worked on, depending on the work they are performing.

[0025] Next, the configuration of the optical information reading terminal 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a block diagram that schematically shows the configuration of the optical information reading terminal 10. The optical information reading terminal 10 in Fig. 2 includes a display unit 12, an input unit 13, an imaging unit 14, as well as a control unit 15, an acceleration sensor 16, a timing unit 17, a memory unit 18, and a communication unit 19.

[0026] The control unit 15 also has a reading unit 31, a step count calculation unit 32, an input processing unit 33, an output processing unit 34, and a terminal data generation unit 35. The storage unit 18 also stores terminal applications 36 and identification information 39. The terminal applications 36 include a task selection application 36a, an individual task application 36b, an authentication application 36c, etc. The identification information 39 includes terminal identification information 39a, worker identification information 39b, etc.

[0027] The control unit 15 is a unit including a processor such as a CPU. The control unit 15 reads and executes program data stored in the storage unit 18, thereby realizing functions such as a reading unit 31, a step count calculation unit 32, an input processing unit 33, an output processing unit 34, and a terminal data generation unit 35.

[0028] The acceleration sensor 16 is a sensor that detects the acceleration of the optical information reading terminal 10. The acceleration sensor 16 detects a change in the speed of the optical information reading terminal 10 that occurs when, for example, a worker carrying the optical information reading terminal 10 walks.

[0029] The timekeeping unit 17 is a unit that generates time information. The timekeeping unit 17 has, for example, a timer unit, and generates time information related to time, such as the current time and the elapsed time since the optical information reading terminal 10 was started up.

[0030] The communication unit 19 is a communication interface unit for performing data communication between the optical information reading terminal 10 and other devices, and performs data communication, for example, by wireless communication (such as wireless LAN). The communication unit 19 of the optical information reading terminal 10 particularly communicates with the information processing device 40 of the data collection system 100. Note that it is sufficient that data is communicated between the optical information reading terminal 10 and the information processing device 40 via the communication unit 19, and the communication unit 19 and the information processing device 40 do not necessarily communicate directly. For example, there may be a device (such as a router or gateway device) that relays communication between the optical information reading terminal 10 and the information processing device 40.

[0031] The storage unit 18 is a unit such as a ROM that stores electronic data. The storage unit 18 stores a terminal application 36, identification information 39, and the like. As mentioned above, the storage unit 18 also stores program data for realizing the functions of the control unit 15, but for convenience, the various functions of the control unit 15 are illustrated in FIG. 2 as being included in the control unit 15.

[0032] The work selection application 36a included in the terminal application 36 is an application for a worker to select (or allow a worker to select) an execution work item to be executed from among a plurality of work items.

[0033] The individual task application 36b is an application that assists the worker in performing tasks (storage tasks, retrieval tasks, etc.) according to individual task items. There may be multiple individual task applications 36b according to the number of types of task items, or a single individual task application 36b may be able to assist with multiple task items.

[0034] The authentication application 36c is an application for restricting use of the optical information reading terminal 10 to specific workers. The authentication application 36c identifies the worker, for example, by password authentication using a password predetermined by the worker, biometric authentication using the worker's biometric information (fingerprint authentication, face authentication, vein authentication, etc.), or physical key authentication using a physical object carried by the worker (e.g., an NFC card). Based on the authentication information presented by the worker, the authentication application 36c identifies whether the worker is a specific worker (registered worker) who has been pre-registered as a worker who is permitted to use the optical information reading terminal 10. If the worker is not a registered worker, the authentication application 36c prohibits the worker from using the optical information reading terminal 10. On the other hand, if the worker is authenticated as a registered worker, the authentication application 36c lifts the usage restriction on the optical information reading terminal 10 for the authenticated worker.

[0035] The terminal identification information 39a included in the identification information 39 is information unique to each optical information reading terminal 10, for individually identifying each of the multiple optical information reading terminals 10. For example, a serial number individually assigned to each optical information reading terminal 10 is used as the terminal identification information 39a.

[0036] The worker identification information 39b is information specific to each worker for identifying each of the multiple workers. For example, a serial number individually assigned to each worker is used as the terminal identification information 39a. The worker identification information 39b may also include authentication information of the worker used in the authentication application 36c. For example, the worker's authentication ID, authentication password, etc. may be included in the worker identification information 39b.

[0037] The reading unit 31 of the control unit 15 reads the symbol information represented by the symbol 20 based on an input image of the symbol 20 captured by the imaging unit 14. The reading unit 31 reads the symbol information, for example, by decoding information encoded in the symbol 20. If the symbol 20 is a character string, the reading unit 31 reads the symbol information by optically reading (OCR) the character string. The symbol information includes, for example, at least one of the type of the read code (e.g., type such as barcode or two-dimensional code), the value of the read code (e.g., a numerical value assigned to a product name), and the read character string (e.g., product name).

[0038] Based on the acceleration of the optical information reading terminal 10 detected by the acceleration sensor 16, the step count calculation unit 32 calculates the number of steps taken by the worker using the optical information reading terminal 10 when walking while carrying the optical information reading terminal 10. For example, when the detected acceleration changes according to a change pattern in acceleration that occurs when the worker walks, the step count calculation unit 32 determines that the worker is walking, and calculates the number of steps according to the change pattern.

[0039] The input processing unit 33 performs signal processing on input data representing inputs received by the input unit 13. For example, if the input unit 13 includes multiple operation keys, the input processing unit 33 transmits input data representing information on how the operation keys were operated, such as which operation key was operated and in what order, to other functions that require the input data. Furthermore, if the authentication application 36c performs biometric authentication, the input unit 13 includes devices for reading biometric information, such as a fingerprint reader, a face imager, and a vein reader, and the input processing unit 33 also reads the biometric information. Furthermore, if physical key authentication is performed, the input unit 13 includes devices (such as a card reader) for reading information from a physical key, such as an NFC card (near field communication card), and the input processing unit 33 also reads information stored in the physical key.

[0040] The output processing unit 34 performs signal processing to output data processed within the control unit 15 as output data outside the control unit 15. For example, the output processing unit 34 transmits display screen data generated by the terminal application 36 to be displayed on the display unit 12 to the display unit 12. The output processing unit 34 also transmits terminal data generated by a terminal data generation unit 35 (described later) to the information processing device 40 in Fig. 1 via the communication unit 19. In other words, the control unit 15 uses the output processing unit 34 to transmit the terminal data generated by the terminal data generation unit 35 to the information processing device 40 via the communication unit 19.

[0041] The terminal data generation unit 35 generates terminal data in which the symbol information read by the reading unit 31 and the task item selected via the task selection application 36a are associated with identification information 39 related to the optical information reading terminal 10 itself. The identification information 39 related to the optical information reading terminal 10 itself includes at least one of terminal identification information 39a of the optical information reading terminal 10 to which the terminal data generation unit 35 belongs and worker identification information 39b of the worker using the optical information reading terminal 10.

[0042] Next, the configuration of the information processing device 40 in Fig. 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a block diagram that schematically shows the configuration of the information processing device 40. The information processing device 40 includes a second control unit 44 and a second storage unit 48. The second control unit 44 includes a processor such as a CPU, and this processor calls and executes program data stored in the second storage unit 48, thereby performing functions such as the second communication unit 45, the counting processing unit 46, and the display processing unit 47.

[0043] The second communication unit 45 receives terminal data from one or more optical information reading terminals 10. If the data collection system 100 includes multiple optical information reading terminals 10, the second communication unit 45 receives terminal data from multiple optical information reading terminals 10. Because the identification information 39 is associated with the terminal data as described above, the second communication unit 45 can determine which optical information reading terminal 10 or which worker sent the received terminal data based on the identification information 39. The second communication unit 45 can also transmit data from the information processing device 40 to the optical information reading terminal 10. For example, data of a task selection application 36a generated by an application creation unit 48a (described later) is transmitted from the information processing device 40 to the optical information reading terminal 10 via the second communication unit 45.

[0044] The tallying processor 46 generates tallying results for the work performed by the workers based on the terminal data received by the second communication unit 45. For example, the tallying processor 46 compiles the symbol information of the symbols 20 read within the data tallying system 100 for each optical information reading terminal 10 that performed the reading or for each worker who used that terminal, and then generates tallying results by combining this information with other data. The tallying processor 46 may generate, for example, tabular or graphical data as the tallying results. For example, the tallying processor 46 may generate the tallying results based on at least one of the following criteria: the work item selected by the work selection application 36a, the symbol information read by the reading unit 31, the number of reads by the reading unit 31, and identification information 39 related to the optical information reading terminal itself. The number of reads may be included in the terminal data generated by the terminal data generation unit 35, or may be calculated by the tallying processor 46 based on the terminal data. For example, the terminal data generation unit 35 may increment the number of reads included in the terminal data each time the reading unit 31 performs a read. Furthermore, the aggregation processing unit 46 may, for example, organize various data sets (records) included in the terminal data by identification information (by worker or by optical information reading terminal 10), and calculate the number of records corresponding to each worker or each optical information reading terminal 10 as the number of reads.

[0045] The display processing unit 47 displays the tallying result generated by the tallying processing unit 46 on the display device 42. For example, the display processing unit 47 converts the data of the tallying result into image data in a format that can be displayed on the display device 42, and transmits the image data to the display device 42.

[0046] The second storage unit 48 is a unit such as a ROM that stores electronic data. The second storage unit 48 stores the tally template 50, program data for the application creation unit 48a, etc. As mentioned above, the second storage unit 48 also stores program data for realizing the functions of the information processing device 40. However, for the sake of convenience, the various functions of the information processing device 40 are illustrated in FIG. 3 as being included in the second control unit 44.

[0047] The tally template 50 includes multiple templates, such as a first template 51 and a second template 52. Each of the multiple templates is associated with a predetermined tally criterion. The tally criterion is data indicating which data items, among the multiple data items included in the terminal data, should be focused on and in what display format the tally results should be displayed. The tally template 50 specifies the display format for displaying the tally results on the display device 42 based on the tally criterion. For example, if the tally results are displayed in a graph format, the tally template 50 may include information that the display format is a graph format and information about the tally axes, i.e., which data items should be displayed on the horizontal axis and which data items should be displayed on the vertical axis of the graph. If the display format is a table format, the tally template 50 may include information about which data items should be arranged in the rows and columns.

[0048] The application creation unit 48a is program data that receives input of information relating to a plurality of work items to be performed by a worker, and thereby generates the work selection application 36a to be used in the optical information reading terminal 10. The work selection application 36a generated by the application creation unit 48a is transmitted to the optical information reading terminal 10 via the second communication unit 45.

[0049] Next, a general flow of operations of the optical information reading terminal 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a flow diagram showing the flow of operations of the optical information reading terminal 10. The optical information reading terminal 10 operates in accordance with the terminal application 36 stored in the storage unit 18, and calls individual applications such as the task selection application 36a as necessary.

[0050] When the optical information reading terminal 10 is started up, it first accepts the worker's login in step S11. The optical information reading terminal 10 is started up, for example, when the worker presses a power key provided as part of the input unit 13, and the optical information reading terminal 10 initializes (resets) the storage area when it is started up. After initialization, the first thing that is read is program data for accepting logins, and while the login is being accepted, a login screen that guides the worker through the login procedure is displayed on the display unit 12 of the optical information reading terminal 10.

[0051] In step S11, the worker follows the instructions on the login screen displayed on the display unit 12 of the optical information reading terminal 10 and operates the input unit 13 to log in. When logging in, the worker presents his / her authentication information to the optical information reading terminal 10.

[0052] If the worker is a registered worker who has been registered in advance as a known worker in the data collection system 100, the worker presents his / her authentication information to the optical information reading terminal 10 (for example, by inputting his / her ID and password). When logging in, the authentication application 36c runs (the terminal application 36 calls the authentication application 36c), and the authentication application 36c checks whether the presented authentication information matches the known authentication information registered in the data collection system 100.

[0053] For example, if known authentication information (registered authentication information) is stored in the storage unit 18 of the optical information reading terminal 10, the authentication application 36c checks whether the presented authentication information matches any of the stored known authentication information. Here, if the authentication information is not stored in the storage unit 18 of the optical information reading terminal 10 but is stored only in the information processing device 40, when verifying the authentication information, the optical information reading terminal 10 may transmit the input authentication information to the information processing device 40, and the input authentication information may be verified against the registered authentication information stored in the information processing device 40. Note that it is preferable that the authentication information is transmitted and received in an encrypted state.

[0054] If the authentication information presented by the worker matches the registered authentication information, the worker is determined to be a registered worker, and the worker corresponding to the authentication information is placed in a logged-in state. If the authentication information presented by the worker does not match the registered authentication information, the login is deemed unsuccessful, and the authentication application 36c prompts the worker who failed to log in to submit the authentication information again. Depending on the level of security required for the data aggregation system 100, the authentication application 36c may prohibit a worker who has failed to log in several times from logging in, and prohibit the worker from performing subsequent login operations.

[0055] On the other hand, if the worker wishes to register as a new worker in the data collection system 100, the authentication application 36c requests the worker to present unregistered authentication information. When the worker is requested to provide unregistered authentication information, the worker presents, for example, an unregistered ID and password (or biometric information, a physical key, etc.). If the presented authentication information does not match the registered authentication information, the authentication application 36c stores the presented authentication information in the storage unit 18 as registered authentication information, and places the worker who presented the authentication information in a logged-in state. Depending on the level of security required for the data collection system 100, it may be possible to register a new worker only using the information processing device 40, and not to register a new worker using the optical information reading terminal 10.

[0056] When the worker has completed logging in, the authentication application 36c removes the usage restriction on the optical information reading terminal 10 for the logged-in user (authenticated by the authentication application 36c). After that (until the user logs out), operations and tasks performed using the optical information reading terminal 10 used for logging in are treated as having been performed by the worker who presented the authentication information.

[0057] After the worker has logged in, the terminal application 36 proceeds to step S12, where it calls the work selection application 36a and prompts the worker to select an execution work item to be performed from among multiple work items. Note that the work item may be selected when the terminal data, described below, is generated or when the transmission conditions are met.

[0058] In step S12, for example, a plurality of options for work items (warehousing and unloading work, etc.) are displayed on the display unit 12, and the worker uses the input unit 13 to select from the options the work item that he or she will perform next (or, if the work item selection is performed when the terminal data is generated or when the transmission conditions are met, a work item that has already been performed). For example, if the input unit 13 is a touch panel display integrated with the display unit 12, the worker selects the work item by touching an option displayed on the display unit 12. If the input unit 13 is not integrated with the display unit 12, the worker uses the input unit 13 to select an option on the display unit 12. For example, if the input unit 13 includes directional keys and an enter key, the worker selects an option by moving a cursor displayed on the display unit 12 with the directional keys and operating the enter key when the cursor is positioned on the desired option.

[0059] Here, the work selection application 36a may also accept registration of shipper information related to the selected work item along with the selection of the work item. For example, in the case of warehousing work, registration of the shipper for which the warehousing work is being performed is accepted. When registering shipper information, for example, multiple shipper information options are displayed on the display unit 12, and the worker may select the shipper information corresponding to the current work from the options using the input unit 13.

[0060] Once the selection of the task item is complete, the terminal application 36 calls the individual task application 36b corresponding to the selected task item. In step S13, the called individual task application 36b determines whether a trigger condition is met, which specifies the timing for starting to capture an image of the symbol 20. The trigger condition is a condition that specifies whether or not it is OK for the imaging unit 14 to capture an image of the symbol 20. For example, the trigger condition is deemed to be met when the worker presses a trigger key included in the input unit 13 (or a trigger button displayed on the display unit 12) and then releases the trigger key. The trigger condition is set in various ways depending on the work environment in the data compilation system 100. For example, the trigger condition may be deemed to be met the moment the trigger key is pressed. In addition to the operation of the trigger key, the trigger condition may also include whether or not an imaging environment is in place that allows the symbol 20 to be read. For example, since it may be impossible to read the symbol 20 in a dark room, the trigger condition may be established only when the trigger key is operated when it is detected that a sufficient amount of light is shining on the symbol 20 to be read (for example, when the camera of the imaging unit 14 detects a sufficient amount of light).

[0061] If the trigger condition is not met (NO in step S13), the individual task application 36b waits until the trigger condition is met (repeats step S13). If the trigger condition is met (YES in step S13), the individual task application 36b proceeds to step S14 and causes the imaging unit 14 to capture an image of the symbol 20.

[0062] Next, the individual task application 36b proceeds to step S15, where it uses the reading unit 31 to read symbol information from the input image obtained by imaging. If the symbol 20 displays encoded information such as a barcode or two-dimensional code, the reading unit 31 reads the symbol information by decoding the encoded information. If the symbol 20 is a character string, the reading unit 31 reads the symbol information by optically reading (OCR) the character string. Note that if the symbol information cannot be read because the symbol 20 is not in focus in the input image, for example, the individual task application 36b may display on the display unit 12 a message that the symbol information could not be read, and prompt the worker to retake the image.

[0063] Once the symbol information is read, the individual task application 36b proceeds to step S16, where the terminal data generation unit 35 creates terminal data. The terminal data generation unit 35 generates terminal data in which the symbol information read by the reading unit 31 and the task item selected via the task selection application 36a are associated with identification information 39 related to the optical information reading terminal 10 itself.

[0064] The identification information 39 relating to the optical information reading terminal 10 itself includes at least one of terminal identification information 39a assigned to the optical information reading terminal 10 itself that is generating the data generated by the terminal data generator 35, and worker identification information 39b of the worker performing (logging in to) the task using the optical information reading terminal 10. The terminal data in which symbol information and a task item are assigned to the identification information 39 is, for example, combination data (table) including a set of combinations of the symbol information, the task item, and the identification information 39. Alternatively, the terminal data may be generated separately as combination data of the identification information 39 and the task item, and as combination data of the identification information 39 and the symbol information, and these two types of data may be combined to form the terminal data. The terminal data may include multiple combination data in this way, as long as it is possible to identify the symbol information and the task item associated with the identification information 39 by examining the entire terminal data.

[0065] It is preferable that the identification information 39 associated with the terminal data includes the identification information 39 of the worker authenticated by the authentication application 36c. By including the identification information of the authenticated worker in the identification information 39 associated with the terminal data, it becomes possible to later confirm that the terminal data was generated by work performed by the authenticated worker.

[0066] Furthermore, when the work selection application 36a accepts the registration of shipper information in step S12, the terminal data generation unit 35 of the control unit 15 may further associate the registered shipper information with the terminal data. By including the shipper information in the terminal data, it becomes possible to later check what work was performed for which shipper based on the terminal data.

[0067] Furthermore, the terminal data generating unit 35 of the control unit 15 may use the time information generated by the clock unit 17 to further associate the terminal data with time information (timestamp) when the symbol information is read by the reading unit 31. By including the timestamp in the terminal data, it becomes possible to later check when and what operation was performed based on the terminal data. Note that the information processing device 40 may associate the terminal data by adding time information to the terminal data when it receives the terminal data.

[0068] Furthermore, the terminal data generation unit 35 of the control unit 15 may generate terminal data that further associates the step count data with the executed task item and identification information, using the step count data calculated by the step count calculation unit 32. By including the step count data in the terminal data, it becomes possible to later confirm which worker performed what task for what executed task item, in association with the worker's movement amount.

[0069] The generated terminal data is temporarily stored in a temporary storage area of ​​the storage unit 18. Once the terminal data is generated, the individual task application 36b proceeds to step S17 to determine whether a transmission condition for transmitting the terminal data to the information processing device 40 has been met. The transmission condition is a predetermined condition for the timing for transmitting the terminal data to the information processing device 40. The transmission condition can be changed in various ways by the administrator or worker of the data collection system 100. For example, if a condition is used that the terminal data be transmitted at regular intervals, such as every 15 minutes, the transmission condition is met every 15 minutes. Alternatively, for example, the input unit 13 may include a transmission key for specifying the timing for transmitting the terminal data, and the transmission condition may be met when the worker operates the transmission key. Alternatively, the transmission condition may be met at various times, such as when a predetermined number of symbol information items are read, when specific symbol information is read, or when the execution task item is switched. Alternatively, the terminal data may be transmitted sequentially each time symbol information is read without being stored.

[0070] If the transmission condition is not met (NO in step S17), the individual task application 36b returns to step S13 with the terminal data temporarily stored and waits until the trigger condition for reading the next symbol information is met. The terminal data stored here is maintained until transmission is performed.

[0071] If the transmission condition is met (YES in step S17), the individual task application 36b proceeds to step S18 and transmits the terminal data that has been accumulated up to that point to the information processing device 40 via the communication unit 19 all at once.

[0072] After transmitting the terminal data, the individual task application 36b returns to step S13 and waits until the trigger condition for reading the next symbol information is satisfied. Note that once the terminal data is transmitted, the terminal data stored in the temporary storage area may be erased.

[0073] In this way, the optical information reading terminal 10 repeats reading of symbol information and transmission of terminal data until an event (occurrence) occurs that marks a break in the work, such as the worker logging out or switching of the work item to be performed.

[0074] Next, a general flow of operations of the information processing device 40 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a flow diagram showing the flow of operations of the information processing device 40. The information processing device 40 is in a standby state while there is no communication from the optical information reading terminal 10. Then, when terminal data is transmitted from the optical information reading terminal 10, the information processing device 40 receives the transmitted terminal data by the second communication unit 45 in step S21.

[0075] Upon receiving the terminal data, the information processing device 40 proceeds to step S22, where it generates, by the tallying processing unit 46, tallying results related to the work performed by the worker based on the received terminal data. Here, if multiple tally templates 50 are stored in the second storage unit 48, a selection of tally templates 50 is displayed on the display device 42 for the user operating the information processing device 40 (such as an administrator of the data tally system 100). The user operating the information processing device 40 selects one of the displayed tally templates 50 as the tally template 50 they wish to apply. The tally template 50 specifies the display format for displaying the tally results on the display device 42 based on the tallying criteria associated with the tally template 50.

[0076] After the tally results have been generated in the manner described above (and possibly after a tally template 50 has been selected and applied), the display processing unit 47 displays the generated tally results on the display device 42. If a tally template 50 has been selected, the second control unit 44 displays the tally results generated by the tally processing unit 46 based on the terminal data on the display device 42 in accordance with the designation of the template selected from the tally templates 50.

[0077] Next, a specific example of identification information 39 for identifying the optical information reading terminal 10 or the worker will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the identification information 39. Of the identification information 39 shown in Fig. 6, the upper part is worker identification information 39b for identifying the worker, and the lower part is terminal identification information 39a for identifying the optical information reading terminal 10. Depending on the situation, both of these pieces of information may be used as the identification information 39, or only one of them may be used.

[0078] The worker identification information 39b for identifying the worker preferably includes a serial number assigned to each worker, a username representing the worker's name, and authentication information used for the worker's login. Note that the username is merely information for distinguishing each worker in the data compilation system 100 and does not have to be the worker's real name. The authentication information is, for example, a password stored in association with the username. If biometric authentication is performed for login, the biometric information may be stored as authentication information. If physical key authentication is performed, the authentication information held in the physical key may be stored.

[0079] The terminal identification information 39a for identifying the optical information reading terminal 10 preferably includes a serial number individually assigned to each optical information reading terminal 10 and a terminal name indicating the name of the terminal.

[0080] Next, specific examples of terminal data generated by the terminal data generation unit 35 will be described with reference to Figures 7 and 8. Figure 7 is a diagram showing one example of terminal data. Figure 8 is a diagram showing another example of terminal data. As shown in Figure 7, the terminal data may be a set of combined data that combines symbol information read by the reading unit 31, an execution task item selected via the task selection application 36a, and identification information related to the optical information reading terminal 10 itself. Note that, here, both information for identifying the worker (worker name) and information for identifying the optical information reading terminal 10 (terminal name) are used as the identification information 39, but only one of these may be used as the identification information 39.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 7, the terminal data may further associate information such as shipper information, timestamp (time information), and walking data with the task item and identification information. The shipper information may represent information about the shipper selected by the worker using the task selection application 36a when selecting the task item. The timestamp preferably represents the current time at the time the symbol information is read. The timestamp (time information) may include information about the date (dd), year (yyyy), month (mm), time (hour: HH, minute: MM, second: SS), and day of the week. Such information included in the timestamp may be generated by the clock unit 17 or may be calculated by the terminal data generation unit 35 based on the elapsed time from a specific reference time (e.g., a UNIX (registered trademark) reference time) measured by the clock unit 17. The step count data preferably represents the cumulative number of steps taken from the time the worker selected the task item to the time the symbol information was read.

[0082] An individual data set (record) included in the terminal data is added each time the trigger condition is met and symbol information is read. Then, a record is added (accumulated) to the terminal data each time symbol information is read until the transmission condition is met and the terminal data is sent to the information processing device 40. When the transmission condition is met, the records accumulated up to that point are collectively transmitted to the information processing device 40 as terminal data.

[0083] In FIG. 7, all data items are grouped into a single set of combined data (table), but the terminal data may be a collection of multiple combined data, as shown in FIG. 8, for example. In FIG. 8, the terminal data is a collection of multiple tables in which the work items to be performed, symbol information, shipper information, timestamp, and step count data are each individually associated with identification information. As another example, the terminal data may be a collection of multiple tables in which the work items to be performed, symbol information, shipper information, and step count data are each individually associated with identification information and timestamp. Even if the terminal data is in this form, it is possible to obtain combined data such as that shown in FIG. 7 by combining each piece of data.

[0084] According to the optical information reading terminal 10 and data compilation system 100 of this embodiment, in the terminal data output from the optical information reading terminal 10, the symbol information read by the optical information reading terminal 10 and the work item indicating the type of work performed using the optical information reading terminal 10 are associated with the identification information of the optical information reading terminal 10 or the identification information of the worker who used the optical information reading terminal 10. In other words, when the terminal data is output from the optical information reading terminal 10, information about the work performed using the optical information reading terminal 10 is included in the terminal data, and the information items are associated with each other within the terminal data, so that it is easy to check information about the work performed using the optical information reading terminal 10 in an external information processing device 40 based on the output terminal data.

[0085] Next, a specific example of a login screen displayed on the display unit 12 when the optical information reading terminal 10 is started up (step S11 in FIG. 4) will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the login screen.

[0086] 9 shows a password-authenticated login screen. While this screen is displayed, that is, while the worker has not been authenticated as a registered worker, the display on the display unit 12 cannot be changed from the login screen. In other words, the optical information reading terminal 10 is in a usage-restricted state.

[0087] A worker whose authentication information has been registered in the data collection system 100 enters the registered worker name in the user name field, enters the password corresponding to the worker name in the password field, and then presses the login button. If the combination of the entered worker name and password matches the registered authentication information, the usage restrictions on the optical information reading terminal 10 are lifted, and the worker is treated as being logged in.

[0088] A worker who has not yet registered authentication information with the data collection system 100 can register new authentication information and log in by operating the new registration button displayed on the login screen and entering the combination of the worker name and password they wish to newly register. Note that if it is not possible to newly register a worker from the optical information reading terminal 10 due to security reasons or the like, it is preferable that the new registration button is not displayed.

[0089] If biometric authentication or physical key authentication is used, a message prompting the user to present biometric information or a physical key will be displayed on the login screen. For example, a message prompting the user to have a fingerprint read by a fingerprint reader or to insert a physical key (such as an NFC card) into a card reader may be displayed.

[0090] Next, a specific example of a screen of the work selection application 36a displayed on the display unit 12 of the optical information reading terminal 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of the work selection application 36a.

[0091] As shown in FIG. 10, the screen of the work selection application 36a displays option buttons for multiple work items that are candidates for work items to be executed, along with the work names (here, "warehousing," "shipping," "picking," and "inventory") and numbers. The worker selects the work item to be executed by selecting the option button that represents the work that the worker will perform. If the display unit 12 is a touch panel, the worker may select the work item to be executed by touching the option button. If the display unit 12 and the input unit 13 are not touch panels (are not integrated), the worker may select the work item to be executed by operating the directional keys or the like of the input unit 13 to position the cursor on the desired option button and then operating the enter key. Alternatively, the work item to be executed may be selected by operating the numeric keys corresponding to the number displayed on the option button.

[0092] In addition to the options for work items, the screen in Figure 10 also shows buttons for "Break," "Cancel," "End of Work," and "History." A worker who wishes to take a break can do so by selecting "Break" on this screen. If this screen is called up by mistake, selecting "Cancel" will return the screen displayed on the display unit 12 to the previous state. When "End of Work" is selected, the worker's work for that time period ends, and a calculation process is performed based on the terminal data up to that point. When "History" is selected, the history of symbol information reading performed using the optical information reading terminal 10 is displayed.

[0093] Next, a specific example of a display screen of the tally results displayed on the display device 42 will be described with reference to Fig. 11 and Fig. 12. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the display screen of the tally results. Fig. 12 is a diagram showing another example of the display screen of the tally results.

[0094] 11, a graph is displayed comparing how many times worker A and worker B read the symbol 20 at which point in time the step count data for each worker is recorded, with the horizontal axis representing the amount of movement (number of steps) and the vertical axis representing the number of readings. The format of the display screen for such tabulation results can be changed using a plurality of tabulation templates 50 in the information processing device 40. The tabulation criteria, such as the items on the vertical and horizontal axes of the graph and the items to be compared, can also be changed using a plurality of tabulation templates 50. The items on the vertical and horizontal axes of the graph and the items to be compared can be selected from, for example, the amount of movement (number of steps), the number of readings (amount of work), symbol information, work item to be performed, worker information, terminal information, shipper information, work time, date, year, month, time, and day of the week.

[0095] In Figure 12, a horizontal bar graph is displayed comparing the amount of time spent by worker A and worker B on the tasks of "storing," "retrieving," and "picking" during the day. By switching the tally template 50, the display screen for the tally results can be displayed in completely different formats, as shown in Figures 11 and 12, even when the same terminal data is being handled.

[0096] Next, a specific example of the application creation screen will be described with reference to Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the application creation screen. When the information processing device 40 (Fig. 3) includes the application creation unit 48a, the information processing device 40 can display the application creation screen on the display device 42 by executing the program data of the application creation unit 48a.

[0097] As shown in Figure 13, the application creation screen allows editing of the items displayed on the screen of the work selection application 36a. In Figure 13, nine "work items" fields are provided, four of which have specific work item names entered. The ninth work item is "break." When the "Save" button is pressed with these settings, the work selection application 36a displays a screen including four work item options and a break option, as shown in Figure 10. These work item names can be changed, deleted, or added as desired on the application creation screen.

[0098] The application creation screen also allows for editing of shipper information, and in FIG. 13, the information for "Shipper A," "Shipper B," and "Shipper C" has been entered. When shipper information has been entered on the application creation screen in this way, after the worker selects an execution work item on the screen of the work selection application 36a, options for shipper information are displayed on the display unit 12 of the optical information reading terminal 10, and the worker can select for which shipper the selected execution work item (e.g., warehousing work) will be performed. When the worker selects the work item or shipper information set on the application creation screen on the screen of the work selection application 36a, the names of the set work item and shipper information will be used as associated information in the terminal data.

[0099] The embodiments are illustrative in all respects and are not limiting. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. Among the configurations described in the embodiments, those other than those described as one aspect of the present invention in the "Means for Solving the Problems" are optional configurations and may be deleted or modified as appropriate. [Industrial Applicability]

[0100] The present invention provides an optical information reading terminal and a data collection system, and has industrial applicability. [Explanation of symbols]

[0101] 10 Optical information reading terminal 12 Display section 13 Input section 14 Imaging unit 15 Control Unit 16 Acceleration Sensor 18 Memory section 19 Communications Department 20 Symbols 31 Reading unit 32 Step count calculation unit 35 Terminal data generation unit 36 Terminal Applications 36 Work Selection Application 39 Identification Information 100 Data Collection System

Claims

1. An optical information reading terminal that captures an image of a symbol to be read and reads symbol information represented by the symbol, an imaging unit that captures an image of the symbol and generates an input image; a reading unit that reads the symbol information based on the input image; a storage unit that stores a task selection application for a worker who performs a task using the symbol information read by the reading unit to select an execution task item to be performed from a plurality of task items, and identification information that identifies the optical information reading terminal or the worker; a display unit that displays display information including a screen of the task selection application for selecting the task item to be executed; a communication unit that communicates with an external information processing device; a control unit that transmits terminal data, in which the symbol information read by the reading unit and the execution task item selected via the task selection application are associated with the identification information related to the optical information reading terminal itself, to the information processing device via the communication unit; An optical information reading terminal comprising:

2. the storage unit further stores an authentication application for restricting use of the optical information reading terminal to specific workers; 2. The optical information reading terminal of claim 1, wherein the control unit lifts usage restrictions on the optical information reading terminal for the worker authenticated by the authentication application, and further includes the identification information related to the authenticated worker in the identification information associated in the terminal data.

3. the work selection application further accepts, together with the selection of the work item, registration of shipper information related to the selected work item; The optical information reading terminal according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit transmits the terminal data further associated with the registered shipper information to the information processing device.

4. further comprising a timekeeping unit that generates time information; The optical information reading terminal according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit transmits to the information processing device the terminal data further associated with the time information when the symbol information is read by the reading unit.

5. a step count calculation unit that calculates step count data relating to the movement of the worker, The optical information reading terminal according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit transmits the terminal data in which the step count data is further associated with the task item and the identification information to the information processing device.

6. One or more optical information reading terminals according to claim 1; an information processing device that communicates with the optical information reading terminal; a display device that performs a display based on a signal received from the information processing device; A data collection system comprising: The information processing device includes: a second communication unit that receives the terminal data from one or more of the optical information reading terminals; a counting processing unit that generates a counting result regarding the work performed by the worker based on the terminal data; a display processing unit that displays the counting result on the display device; Equipped with Data aggregation system.

7. the information processing device further includes a second storage unit that stores a plurality of tally templates; a predetermined tallying criterion is associated with each of the plurality of tallying templates, and the tallying template specifies a display format for displaying the tallying results on the display device based on the tallying criterion; The data tallying system according to claim 6, wherein the tallying results generated by the tallying processing unit based on the terminal data are displayed on the display device in accordance with the specification of the tally template selected from a plurality of the tally templates.

8. the information processing device further includes an application creation unit; the application creation unit generates the work selection application by receiving input of information relating to the plurality of work items; the information processing device transmits the task selection application generated by the application generation unit to the optical information reading terminal via the second communication unit; 7. The data calculation system according to claim 6, wherein the calculation processing unit generates the calculation results using at least one of the execution task items selected by the task selection application, the symbol information read by the reading unit, the number of times the symbol information is read by the reading unit, and the identification information relating to the optical information reading terminal itself as a criterion for calculation.

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