Electronic shelf label management device, electronic shelf label management method, and program

Abstract

This invention provides an electronic shelf label management device, an electronic shelf label management method, and a program that enable effective use of the display area of ​​electronic shelf labels without reducing operational efficiency. [Solution] An electronic shelf label management device comprising: a display control unit that displays either first electronic shelf label display information including only product sales information relating to the sale of products to which the electronic shelf label is to be installed, or second electronic shelf label display information including a product code symbol and product sales information, the display control unit that displays the first electronic shelf label display information and switches the display from the first electronic shelf label display information to the second electronic shelf label display information when requested by the user; and a product identification unit that identifies the product associated with the electronic shelf label based on product identification information acquired by the user terminal from the electronic shelf label displaying either the first electronic shelf label display information or the second electronic shelf label display information, and displays the identification result on the user terminal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic shelf label management device, an electronic shelf label management method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, in stores that sell products, the number of stores using electronic shelf labels (ESLs) to display product information for each product has been increasing. When installing ESLs in a store, the layout, display content, display method, etc. of the ESLs are created according to a format.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 below discloses a technique for displaying information on an ESL according to a prepared format. In this technique, a barcode indicating a product identifier used in operations such as product shipment and ordering is displayed on the ESL.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] [[ID=3S]] However, in the technique described in Patent Document 1 above, the barcode is always displayed even when it is not used in operations, and the display area that can be used for appealing to consumers is limited. Therefore, it is desirable to make the barcode non-displayed and effectively utilize the display area of the ESL. However, simply making the barcode non-displayed raises concerns about a decrease in operational efficiency.

[0006] In view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide an electronic shelf label management device, an electronic shelf label management method, and a program that can effectively utilize the display area of an ESL without reducing operational efficiency. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To solve the above-mentioned problems, an electronic shelf label management device according to one aspect of the present invention is an electronic shelf label management device that displays either first electronic shelf label display information which includes only product sales information relating to the sale of products to which the electronic shelf label is to be installed, or second electronic shelf label display information which includes the code symbol of the product and the product sales information, and comprises: a display control unit which displays the first electronic shelf label display information and switches the display from the first electronic shelf label display information to the second electronic shelf label display information when requested by a user; and a product identification unit which identifies the product associated with the electronic shelf label based on product identification information acquired by a user terminal from the electronic shelf label which is displaying either the first electronic shelf label display information or the second electronic shelf label display information, and displays the identification result on the user terminal.

[0008] An electronic shelf label management method according to one aspect of the present invention is an electronic shelf label management method performed by a computer, which includes a display control process that displays the first electronic shelf label display information and switches the display from the first electronic shelf label display information to the second electronic shelf label display information when requested by a user, and a product identification process that identifies the product associated with the electronic shelf label based on product identification information acquired by a user terminal from the electronic shelf label displaying either the first electronic shelf label display information or the second electronic shelf label display information, and displays the identification result on the user terminal.

[0009] A program according to one aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to function as a display control means for an electronic shelf label that displays either a first electronic shelf label display information which includes only product sales information relating to the sale of a product to which an electronic shelf label is to be installed, or a second electronic shelf label display information which includes the code symbol of the product and the product sales information, and which displays the first electronic shelf label display information and switches the display from the first electronic shelf label display information to the second electronic shelf label display information when requested by a user; and a product identification means for identifying a product associated with an electronic shelf label based on product identification information acquired by a user terminal from the electronic shelf label which is displaying either the first electronic shelf label display information or the second electronic shelf label display information, and which displays the identification result on the user terminal. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, the display area of ​​electronic shelf labels can be effectively utilized without reducing operational efficiency. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the configuration of the electronic shelf label management system according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] This block diagram shows an example of the functional configuration of a user terminal according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the electronic shelf label management device according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an electronic shelf label according to this embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of a screen displaying the first electronic shelf label information relating to the advertised product according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of a screen displaying second electronic shelf label information relating to the advertised product according to this embodiment. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of a screen displaying the first electronic shelf label information related to the point-awarding product according to this embodiment. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of a screen displaying second electronic shelf label information related to products eligible for point accrual according to this embodiment. [Figure 9] This sequence diagram shows an example of the screen display processing flow according to this embodiment. [Figure 10] This sequence diagram shows an example of the flow of product identification processing by reading using short-range wireless communication according to this embodiment. [Figure 11] This sequence diagram shows an example of the flow of product identification processing using electronic shelf label photography according to this embodiment. [Figure 12] This sequence diagram shows an example of the flow of product identification processing by reading code symbols according to this embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0013] <1. Configuration of the Electronic Shelf Label Management System> Referring to Figure 1, the configuration of the electronic shelf label management system according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the electronic shelf label management system according to this embodiment.

[0014] The electronic shelf label management system 1 shown in FIG. 1 is a system for managing information related to electronic shelf labels and controlling the display of electronic shelf labels based on such information. The electronic shelf label management system 1 is used, for example, in areas where products of retail distribution companies are sold. Areas where products of retail distribution companies are sold are, for example, permanent stores or temporary sales areas. Permanent stores are, for example, stores (retail stores) such as supermarkets, convenience stores, drugstores, and home appliance量贩stores. Temporary sales areas are, for example, sales areas used in event venues, pop-up stores, mobile sales, etc., and are not limited to stores. Note that the location where the electronic shelf label management system 1 is used is not limited to such examples. Also, the area where products are sold and the location where the electronic shelf label management system 1 is used may be either indoor or outdoor.

[0015] On the electronic shelf label, information related to the product that is the installation target of the electronic shelf label is displayed. The information displayed on the electronic shelf label (hereinafter also referred to as "electronic shelf label display information") is generated based on information related to the sale of the product (hereinafter also referred to as "product sales information"). Product sales information is, for example, product information or promotional information. Product information is information related to the product and is information corresponding to the product master. Product information is, for example, information including product name, product code, classification, manufacturer name, price (cost price, selling price, etc.), product specifications, JAN (Japanese Article Number) code, etc. The JAN code is an example of product identification information and is unique information for each product. Promotional information is information related to the promotion of product sales (such as sales or point awarding). Promotional information is, for example, information including discounted price, awarded points, promotional period (start date and time and end date and time), etc.

[0016] The electronic shelf label display information is generated as an image (hereinafter also referred to as "electronic shelf label display image") indicating, for example, product information, promotion information, etc. based on product sales information. In the electronic shelf label display image, product information such as product name, manufacturer name, specifications, price (basic price, price including tax), etc. is displayed as part of the product sales information. When it is within the promotion period, promotion information is further displayed as part of the product sales information in the electronic shelf label display image displayed on the electronic shelf label of the product targeted for promotion. The promotion information is, for example, information indicating that it is a promotion target, the number of points awarded upon purchase, etc.

[0017] In addition, a code symbol of the product may be further displayed in the electronic shelf label display image. The code symbol is generated based on, for example, the JAN code of the product. The code symbol may be either a one-dimensional symbol (one-dimensional code) or a two-dimensional symbol (two-dimensional code).

[0018] Hereinafter, in this embodiment, an example where the code symbol is a barcode (one-dimensional code) will be described as an example. Also, assume that the electronic shelf label display information includes first electronic shelf label display information including only product sales information, and second electronic shelf label display information including both product sales information and the code symbol of the product.

[0019] The first electronic shelf label display information is for display for users in the area where the electronic shelf label is installed. As an example, when the area is a retail store, the users are consumers. In the first electronic shelf label display information, since the code symbol is not displayed, the display area of the code symbol can be utilized as the display area of the product sales information. Therefore, the first electronic shelf label display information can enhance the appeal effect of the product on consumers.

[0020] The second electronic shelf label display information is intended for the manager of the area where the electronic shelf labels are installed. For example, if the area is a retail store, the manager is the store operator. The second electronic shelf label display information displays a code symbol, so product information can be easily obtained by reading the code symbol with a terminal that can read it. For this reason, the second electronic shelf label display information can improve the efficiency of operations related to the electronic shelf labels 40. Operations related to the electronic shelf labels 40 are operations performed using the electronic shelf labels 40, such as stocking, ordering products, inventory management, and inventory counting.

[0021] The electronic shelf label management system 1 switches between displaying the first electronic shelf label information and the second electronic shelf label information on the electronic shelf label in response to a user request. This allows the administrator to display the code symbol on the electronic shelf label only when necessary, and when the display of the code symbol is not required, the display area can be effectively used to display product sales information.

[0022] The following explanation describes an example where the electronic shelf label management system 1 is used to control the display of electronic shelf labels installed in a retail store (an example area), and the user is a retail store employee. The display and switching of the electronic shelf labels are assumed to be performed by the retail store employee.

[0023] As shown in Figure 1, the electronic shelf label management system 1 comprises a management terminal 10, a user terminal 20, an electronic shelf label management device 30, and electronic shelf labels 40. Networks (NW) can include various configurations for exchanging information, such as LANs (Local Area Networks), WANs (Wide Area Networks), telephone networks (mobile phone networks, fixed-line telephone networks, etc.), regional IP (Internet Protocol) networks, and the Internet.

[0024] (1) Management terminal 10 The management terminal 10 is a terminal operated by the user to manage information about products. The management terminal 10 can be, for example, a smartphone, a tablet, a PC (Personal Computer), or a dedicated handheld terminal (e.g., a PDA: Personal Digital Assistant). The management terminal 10 is connected to the electronic shelf label management device 30 via a network NW so as to be able to communicate with it.

[0025] In communication with the electronic shelf label management device 30, the management terminal 10 transmits product sales information such as product information and promotional information. The management terminal 10 transmits product sales information entered by the administrator, for example, to the electronic shelf label management device 30 for registration.

[0026] The management terminal 10 displays various UIs (User Interfaces) through an application (hereinafter also referred to as the "management app") that allows the administrator to manage the electronic shelf label management system 1. The administrator can manage the electronic shelf label management system 1 by operating the UI displayed on the management terminal 10 via the management app. The functionality of the management application may be provided by installing the management application on the management terminal 10 (i.e., a native application), or by a web system (i.e., a web application). In the case of a web application, the management application is managed on a server, and its functionality is provided via a web browser.

[0027] (2) User terminal 20 The user terminal 20 is a terminal operated by the user to perform tasks related to the electronic shelf labels 40. The user terminal 20 may be, for example, a dedicated handheld terminal (e.g., a PDA), a smartphone, a tablet, or a wearable device. The user terminal 20 is connected to the electronic shelf label management device 30 via a network NW in a communicative manner.

[0028] In communication with the electronic shelf label management device 30, the user terminal 20 transmits display requests, display switching requests, product identification information, etc., and receives the identification result. A display request is a request to display the first electronic shelf label display information on the electronic shelf label 40. A display switching request is a request to switch the display on the electronic shelf label 40 from the first electronic shelf label display information to the second electronic shelf label display information.

[0029] Product identification information is information used to identify the product associated with the electronic shelf label 40 (the product on which the electronic shelf label display information is displayed). Product identification information includes, for example, the identification information of the electronic shelf label 40, the captured image of the electronic shelf label 40, and the product identification information. The user can obtain product identification information by operating the user terminal 20. The identification information of the electronic shelf label 40 (hereinafter also referred to as the "electronic shelf label ID") can be obtained, for example, by a user using a user terminal 20 to perform short-range wireless communication with the electronic shelf label 40 displaying the first electronic shelf label information. The captured image of the electronic shelf label 40 (hereinafter also referred to as the "electronic shelf label image") can be obtained, for example, by a user using the user terminal 20 to capture an image of the electronic shelf label 40 displaying the first electronic shelf label information, such that the image includes at least the first electronic shelf label information. Product identification information (hereinafter also referred to as "product ID") can be obtained, for example, by a user using a user terminal 20 to read a code symbol from an electronic shelf label 40 displaying second electronic shelf label information.

[0030] The identification result is information that shows the result of identifying the products associated with the electronic shelf labels 40 based on product identification information acquired by the user terminal 20.

[0031] The user terminal 20 displays various UI elements through an application (hereinafter also referred to as the "user app") that allows the user to use the electronic shelf label management system 1. The user can use the electronic shelf label management system 1 by operating the UI displayed on the user terminal 20 through the user app. The functionality of the user application may be provided by installing the user application on the user terminal 20 (i.e., a native application), or by a web system (i.e., a web application). In the case of a web application, the user application is managed on a server, and its functionality is provided via a web browser.

[0032] (3) Electronic shelf label management device 30 The electronic shelf label management device 30 is a device that manages information related to electronic shelf labels and controls the display of electronic shelf labels. The information managed by the electronic shelf label management device 30 includes, for example, product information and promotional information. The electronic shelf label management device 30 is composed of, for example, one or more PCs or server devices (for example, a cloud server). The electronic shelf label management device 30 is communicated via a network NW to a management terminal 10, a user terminal 20, and electronic shelf labels 40.

[0033] In communication with the management terminal 10, the electronic shelf label management device 30 receives product sales information such as product information to be registered and promotional information. In communication with the user terminal 20, the electronic shelf label management device 30 receives display requests, display switching requests, product identification information, etc., and transmits the identification result. In communication with the electronic shelf label 40, the electronic shelf label management device 30 transmits the electronic shelf label display information.

[0034] (4)Electronic shelf label 40 The electronic shelf label 40 is a terminal device that displays electronic shelf label information. The electronic shelf label 40 is associated with a product and displays the product sales information of the associated product as electronic shelf label information. The electronic shelf label 40 is connected to the electronic shelf label management device 30 in a communication manner. In communication with the electronic shelf label management device 30, the electronic shelf label 40 receives electronic shelf label display information.

[0035] Note that the electronic shelf label 40 may include a light-emitting element such as an LED (Light-Emitting Diode), or may be a terminal device capable of communicating by short-range wireless communication. The short-range wireless communication is, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near Field Communication), or the like.

[0036] <2. Functional Configuration of User Terminal> As described above, the configuration of the electronic shelf label management system 1 according to the present embodiment has been described. Subsequently, referring to FIG. 2, the functional configuration of the user terminal 20 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the user terminal 20 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the user terminal 20 includes an input unit 210, a communication unit 220, an imaging unit 230, a reading unit 240, a storage unit 250, a control unit 260, and an output unit 270.

[0037] (1) Input Unit 210 The input unit 210 has a function of receiving an input. The input unit 210 is constituted by, for example, an input device provided as hardware in the user terminal 20, such as a button, a touch panel, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, or the like.

[0038] (2) Communication Unit 220 The communication unit 220 has a function of transmitting and receiving various information. The communication unit 220 is communicably connected to the electronic shelf label management device 30 via the network NW and transmits and receives various information.

[0039] In addition, the communication unit 220 has a short-range wireless communication function. When the user uses the electronic shelf label ID as product identification information, when the user terminal 20 is brought within the range where it can communicate with the electronic shelf label 40, the communication unit 220 receives the electronic shelf label ID from the electronic shelf label 40 by short-range wireless communication with the electronic shelf label 40.

[0040] (3) Imaging Unit 230 The imaging unit 230 has the function of capturing images. The imaging unit 230 captures various images in response to user operations using a camera provided as hardware in the user terminal 20. When the user uses an electronic shelf label image as product identification information, the imaging unit 230 captures an image of the electronic shelf label 40 in response to user operations.

[0041] (4) Reading unit 240 The reading unit 240 has the function of reading code symbols. The reading unit 240 reads code symbols in response to user operations, for example, using a camera provided as hardware in the user terminal 20. When the user uses a product ID as product identification information, the reading unit 240 reads the code symbol displayed on the electronic shelf label 40 in response to user operations and obtains the product ID indicated by the code symbol.

[0042] (5) Storage section 250 The storage unit 250 has the function of storing various types of information. The storage unit 250 is composed of storage media provided as hardware by the user terminal 20, such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), flash memory, EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access read / write Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), or any combination of these storage media.

[0043] (6) Control unit 260 The control unit 260 has the function of controlling the overall operation of the user terminal 20. The control unit 260 is implemented, for example, by causing the CPU (Central Processing Unit) or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) provided as hardware in the user terminal 20 to execute a program. As shown in Figure 2, the control unit 260 comprises an input processing unit 261, an acquisition processing unit 262, and an output processing unit 263.

[0044] (6-1) Input processing unit 261 The input processing unit 261 has the function of receiving user operations entered into the input unit 210 and executing processing according to the content of the operations. The functions of the input processing unit 261 are executed by the user application. When the input unit 210 receives a display operation for the electronic shelf label 40, the input processing unit 261 executes the display process. In the display process, the input processing unit 261 transmits a display request to the electronic shelf label management device 30 via the communication unit 220. Furthermore, when the input unit 210 receives a reading operation via short-range wireless communication, the input processing unit 261 activates the reading unit 240, making it possible to read the code symbol. Furthermore, when the input unit 210 receives a shooting operation, the input processing unit 261 activates the imaging unit 230, making it possible to photograph the electronic shelf label 40.

[0045] (6-2) Acquisition Processing Unit 262 The acquisition processing unit 262 has the function of performing processing related to the acquisition of various types of information. For example, the acquisition processing unit 262 performs processing to acquire the results of product identification. When an electronic shelf label ID is acquired as product identification information, the acquisition processing unit 262 transmits the electronic shelf label ID to the electronic shelf label management device 30 via the communication unit 220. Similarly, when an image is acquired as product identification information, the acquisition processing unit 262 transmits the image to the electronic shelf label management device 30 via the communication unit 220. When a product ID is acquired as product identification information, the acquisition processing unit 262 transmits the product ID to the electronic shelf label management device 30 via the communication unit 220. Once the electronic shelf label management device 30 performs product identification processing based on the transmitted product identification information, the acquisition processing unit 262 receives the identification result from the electronic shelf label management device 30 via the communication unit 220.

[0046] (6-3) Output processing unit 263 The output processing unit 263 has the function of controlling the output of the output unit 270. The output processing unit 263 causes the output unit 270 to display a screen based on the information received by the communication unit 220 from the electronic shelf label management device 30. For example, the output processing unit 263 causes the output unit 270 to display a screen related to a user application, a screen showing a specific result, etc.

[0047] (7) Output section 270 The output unit 270 has the function of outputting various types of information. The output unit 270 is composed of, for example, output devices provided as hardware by the user terminal 20, such as display devices such as a display device or a touch screen (touch panel), and audio output devices such as a speaker.

[0048] <3. Functional Configuration of the Electronic Shelf Label Management System> The functional configuration of the user terminal 20 according to this embodiment has been described above. Next, the functional configuration of the electronic shelf label management device 30 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the electronic shelf label management device 30 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 3, the electronic shelf label management device 30 comprises a communication unit 310, a storage unit 320, and a control unit 330.

[0049] (1) Communications Section 310 The communication unit 310 has the function of sending and receiving various types of information. The communication unit 310 is connected to the management terminal 10, the user terminal 20, and the electronic shelf label 40 via the network NW, and sends and receives various types of information.

[0050] (2) Storage section 320 The storage unit 320 has the function of storing various types of information. The storage unit 320 is composed of storage media provided as hardware by the electronic shelf label management device 30, such as HDD, SSD, flash memory, EEPROM, RAM, ROM, or any combination of these storage media.

[0051] The storage unit 320 stores, for example, product sales information, electronic shelf label information, first electronic shelf label display information, second electronic shelf label display information, and product identification information. The storage unit 320 also stores the correspondence between the electronic shelf labels 40 and various types of information. For example, the storage unit 320 stores the electronic shelf label ID of the electronic shelf label 40 in association with the product sales information included in the first electronic shelf label display information displayed on the electronic shelf label 40. This makes it possible to identify the product associated with the electronic shelf label 40 based on the electronic shelf label ID.

[0052] (3) Control unit 330 The control unit 330 has the function of controlling the overall operation of the electronic shelf label management device 30. The control unit 330 is implemented, for example, by causing the CPU or GPU provided as hardware in the electronic shelf label management device 30 to execute a program. As shown in Figure 3, the control unit 330 includes a data acquisition unit 331, a display information generation unit 332, a display control unit 333, and a product identification unit 334.

[0053] (3-1) Data acquisition unit 331 The data acquisition unit 331 has the function of acquiring various types of data. For example, the data acquisition unit 331 acquires product sales information received by the communication unit 310 from the management terminal 10 and stores it in the storage unit 320. Also, when the communication unit 310 receives a display request from the user terminal 20, it acquires the product sales information stored in the storage unit 320 and inputs it into the display information generation process described later.

[0054] (3-2) Display information generation unit 332 The display information generation unit 332 has the function of generating electronic shelf label display information. The display information generation unit 332 generates a screen with product information, promotional information, etc., arranged in the format of the screen to be displayed on the electronic shelf label 40, and generates this screen as electronic shelf label display information.

[0055] For example, when the display information generation unit 332 receives product sales information from the data acquisition unit 331, it generates first electronic shelf label display information and second electronic shelf label display information. The display information generation unit 332 generates first electronic shelf label display information by placing product sales information in a format (first format) in which only product sales information can be placed. The display information generation unit 332 also generates second electronic shelf label display information by placing product sales information and product code symbols in a format (second format) in which both product sales information and product code symbols can be placed.

[0056] The display information generation unit 332 updates the electronic shelf label display information when electronic shelf label information or product sales information is updated. The electronic shelf label information is information related to the electronic shelf label 40. The electronic shelf label information includes, for example, the electronic shelf label ID of the electronic shelf label 40, information related to the installation of the electronic shelf label 40, and information related to the display of the electronic shelf label 40.

[0057] (3-3) Display control unit 333 The display control unit 333 has a function to control the display of the electronic shelf label 40. The display control unit 333 displays either the first electronic shelf label display information or the second electronic shelf label display information on the electronic shelf label 40.

[0058] For example, when the communication unit 310 receives a display request from the user terminal 20, the display control unit 333 displays the first electronic shelf label display information generated by the display information generation unit 332 on the electronic shelf label 40. After the display of the first electronic shelf label display information, when the communication unit 310 receives a display switching request from the user terminal 20, the display control unit 333 switches the display on the electronic shelf label 40 from the first electronic shelf label display information to the second electronic shelf label display information. A display switching request is made, for example, when a user performs a task related to the electronic shelf label 40.

[0059] After a predetermined time has elapsed since the display of the electronic shelf label 40 was switched from the first electronic shelf label display information to the second electronic shelf label display information, the display control unit 333 switches the display of the electronic shelf label 40 from the second electronic shelf label display information to the first electronic shelf label display information. The predetermined time is, for example, the time required for tasks related to the electronic shelf label 40. As a result, after the completion of tasks related to the electronic shelf label 40, the display of the electronic shelf label 40 automatically switches from a display for administrators to a display for users. Therefore, even if an administrator forgets to change the display of the electronic shelf label 40 back after completing their tasks, the display will automatically revert to the original state, preventing the display of unnecessary information to users and ensuring that only useful information is shown.

[0060] (3-4) Product Specification Department 334 The product identification unit 334 has the function of identifying products displayed on the electronic shelf label 40. For example, the product identification unit 334 identifies the product associated with the electronic shelf label 40 based on product identification information. The product identification information is information obtained by the user terminal 20 from the electronic shelf label 40 displaying either the first electronic shelf label display information or the second electronic shelf label display information. When the communication unit 310 receives product identification information from the user terminal 20, the product identification unit 334 performs product identification processing based on the product identification information and displays the identification result on the user terminal 20.

[0061] Product identification information includes, for example, the electronic shelf label ID (identification information for the electronic shelf label 40), the electronic shelf label image (image captured of the electronic shelf label 40), and the product ID (identification information for the product). The electronic shelf label ID is information obtained by the user terminal 20 through short-range wireless communication with the electronic shelf label 40 displaying the first electronic shelf label information. When the electronic shelf label ID is obtained as product identification information, the product identification unit 334 identifies the product associated with the electronic shelf label 40 based on the product sales information associated with the obtained electronic shelf label ID.

[0062] The electronic shelf label image is an image captured by the user terminal 20 of the electronic shelf label 40 displaying the first electronic shelf label information, such that it includes at least the first electronic shelf label information. When the electronic shelf label image is acquired as product identification information, the product identification unit 334 identifies the product associated with the electronic shelf label 40 based on the recognition results obtained by image recognition processing on the acquired electronic shelf label image. In the image recognition processing, the product identification unit 334 performs character recognition on the product sales information displayed in the first electronic shelf label information shown in the electronic shelf label image, and acquires text data indicating the product sales information as the recognition result. Character recognition is performed by character recognition processing such as OCR (Optical Character Recognition). Based on the product sales information indicated by the acquired text data, the product identification unit 334 identifies the product associated with the electronic shelf label 40.

[0063] The product ID is information obtained by the user terminal 20 reading a code symbol from the electronic shelf label 40 that displays the second electronic shelf label information. When the product ID is obtained as product identification information, the product identification unit 334 identifies the product associated with the electronic shelf label 40 based on the product sales information associated with the obtained product ID.

[0064] Furthermore, when using the product ID as product identification information, the user must first switch the first electronic shelf label display information to the second electronic shelf label display information before reading the code symbol displayed on the electronic shelf label 40. In contrast, when using the electronic shelf label ID or electronic shelf label image as product identification information, the user can perform the operation to acquire the electronic shelf label ID or electronic shelf label image while the first electronic shelf label display information remains displayed. As a result, the user can perform tasks related to the electronic shelf label 40 more efficiently when using the electronic shelf label ID or electronic shelf label image than when using the product ID.

[0065] The identification result displayed on the user terminal 20 is information about the product associated with the electronic shelf label 40. This information is necessary for tasks such as stocking shelves, ordering products, inventory management, and inventory counting. Furthermore, if the user operates the user terminal 20 and reads a code symbol attached to a product package, the product identification unit 334 may determine whether the product identified based on the product identification information matches the product whose code symbol was read. In this case, the product identification unit 334 displays a determination result on the user terminal 20 that simply indicates whether or not they match. Alternatively, based on the determination result, the product identification unit 334 may display information on the user terminal 20 indicating that if they match, the product may be placed at the location of the electronic shelf label 40.

[0066] <4. Functional configuration of electronic shelf labels> The functional configuration of the electronic shelf label management device 30 according to this embodiment has been described above. Next, the functional configuration of the electronic shelf label 40 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 4 to 8. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the electronic shelf label 40 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the electronic shelf label 40 comprises a communication unit 410, a storage unit 420, a control unit 430, and an output unit 440.

[0067] (1) Communications Section 410 The communication unit 410 has the function of sending and receiving various types of information. For example, the communication unit 410 is connected to the electronic shelf label management device 30 via a network NW and sends and receives various types of information.

[0068] (2) Storage section 420 The memory unit 420 has the function of storing various types of information. The memory unit 420 is composed of a storage medium provided as hardware by the electronic shelf label 40, such as flash memory, EEPROM, RAM, ROM, or any combination of these storage media. The storage unit 420 stores, for example, electronic shelf label display information (first electronic shelf label display information and second electronic shelf label display information).

[0069] (3) Control unit 430 The control unit 430 has the function of controlling the overall operation of the electronic shelf label 40. For example, the control unit 430 is realized by causing the CPU, which is provided as hardware in the electronic shelf label 40, to execute a program. As shown in Figure 4, the control unit 430 includes an output processing unit 431.

[0070] (3-1) Output processing unit 431 The output processing unit 431 has the function of controlling the output of the electronic shelf label 40. For example, the output processing unit 431 displays the electronic shelf label display information to the output unit 440. The output processing unit 431 also controls the lighting of light-emitting elements such as LEDs.

[0071] (4) Output section 440 The output unit 440 has the function of performing various outputs. For example, the output unit 440 displays electronic shelf label display information that is input based on the control of the output processing unit 431. The output unit 440 is implemented, for example, by a display provided as hardware by the electronic shelf label 40. This display is, for example, electronic paper.

[0072] Now, referring to Figures 5 to 8, we will explain the electronic shelf label display information shown in the output unit 440 of the electronic shelf label 40.

[0073] Figure 5 shows an example of a screen displaying the first electronic shelf label information for the advertised product according to this embodiment. The output unit 440 of the electronic shelf label 40 shown in Figure 5 displays the first electronic shelf label information for the advertised product, "canned mackerel." Area A1 displays information indicating that it is an advertised product. Area A2 displays product information. Figure 6 shows an example of a screen displaying second electronic shelf label information for the advertised product according to this embodiment. The output unit 440 of the electronic shelf label 40 shown in Figure 6 displays second electronic shelf label information for the advertised product, "canned mackerel." Area A3 displays information indicating that it is an advertised product. Area A4 displays product information as well as the code symbol CS. As can be seen by comparing Figure 5 and Figure 6, in the first electronic shelf label display information, by not displaying the code symbol CS, information indicating that the product is an advertised item and product information can be displayed more prominently (for example, in a larger size).

[0074] Figure 7 shows an example of a screen displaying the first electronic shelf label information for a point-awarding product according to this embodiment. The output unit 440 of the electronic shelf label 40 shown in Figure 7 displays the first electronic shelf label information for "canned mackerel," which is a point-awarding product under the campaign. Area A5 displays information indicating that it is a campaign-eligible product (point-awarding product). Area A6 displays the number of points awarded upon purchase and product information. Figure 8 shows an example of a screen displaying the second electronic shelf label information for a point-awarding product according to this embodiment. The output unit 440 of the electronic shelf label 40 shown in Figure 7 displays the second electronic shelf label information for "canned mackerel," which is a point-awarding product under the campaign. Area A7 displays information indicating that it is a campaign-eligible product (point-awarding product). Area A8 displays information indicating the number of points awarded upon purchase, product information, and the code symbol CS. As can be seen by comparing Figures 7 and 8, in the first electronic shelf label display information, by not displaying the code symbol CS, information indicating the number of points awarded for purchase and product information can be displayed more prominently (for example, in a larger size). In addition, words such as "Point Campaign" and "Point Doubling" may be displayed in areas A5 and A7.

[0075] As shown in Figures 5 to 7, the first electronic shelf label display information can enhance its appeal to products by effectively utilizing the display area of ​​the code symbol CS for displaying product sales information.

[0076] <5. Processing Flow> The functional configuration of the electronic shelf label 40 according to this embodiment has been described above. Next, the processing flow according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 9 to 12.

[0077] (1) Flow of screen display processing The flow of the screen display process according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 9. Figure 9 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of the screen display process according to this embodiment.

[0078] As shown in Figure 9, first, the user performs a display operation on the user terminal 20 (step S101). In the display operation, the user performs tasks such as selecting the electronic shelf label 40 to be displayed and selecting the products to be displayed on the electronic shelf label 40. When the user terminal 20 receives a display operation from the user, it sends a display request to the electronic shelf label management device 30 (step S102). When sending the display request, the user terminal 20 also sends information indicating the electronic shelf label 40 to be displayed and the product to be displayed to the electronic shelf label management device 30.

[0079] The data acquisition unit 331 of the electronic shelf label management device 30 acquires product sales information stored in the storage unit 320 based on a display request received by the communication unit 310 from the user terminal 20 (step S103).

[0080] The display information generation unit 332 of the electronic shelf label management device 30 generates first electronic shelf label display information based on product sales information (step S104). Furthermore, the display information generation unit 332 generates second electronic shelf label display information based on the product sales information (step S105). The display control unit 333 of the electronic shelf label management device 30 transmits the first electronic shelf label display information acquired by the display information generation unit 332 to the electronic shelf label 40 via the communication unit 310, causing it to be displayed (step S106).

[0081] The electronic shelf label 40 displays the first electronic shelf label display information received from the electronic shelf label management device 30 (step S107).

[0082] (2) Flow of product identification processing using short-range wireless communication Referring to Figure 10, the flow of product identification processing using short-range wireless communication according to this embodiment will be explained. Figure 10 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of product identification processing using short-range wireless communication according to this embodiment.

[0083] As shown in Figure 10, first, the user performs a reading operation on the user terminal 20 using short-range wireless communication (step S201). When the user terminal 20 receives a reading operation from the user via short-range wireless communication, it performs reading on the electronic shelf label 40 via short-range wireless communication (step S202). The user terminal 20 obtains the electronic shelf label ID from the electronic shelf label 40 by reading it via short-range wireless communication (step S203). The user terminal 20 transmits the acquired electronic shelf label ID to the electronic shelf label management device 30 (step S204).

[0084] The product identification unit 334 of the electronic shelf label management device 30 identifies the product associated with the electronic shelf label 40 from which the electronic shelf label ID was obtained, based on the electronic shelf label ID (product identification information) received by the communication unit 310 from the user terminal 20 (step S205). The product identification unit 334 transmits the product identification result to the user terminal 20 via the communication unit 310 (step S206).

[0085] The user terminal 20 displays the specific result received from the electronic shelf label management device 30 (step S207). The user confirms the specific result displayed on the user terminal 20 (step S208).

[0086] (3) Flow of product identification process using electronic shelf label photography Referring to Figure 11, the flow of product identification processing using electronic shelf label photography according to this embodiment will be explained. Figure 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of product identification processing using electronic shelf label photography according to this embodiment.

[0087] As shown in Figure 11, first, the user performs a shooting operation on the user terminal 20 (step S301). When the user terminal 20 receives a shooting command from the user, it takes a picture of the electronic shelf label 40 (step S302). The user terminal 20 acquires an image of the electronic shelf label 40 by taking a picture of it (step S303). The user terminal 20 transmits the acquired electronic shelf label image to the electronic shelf label management device 30 (step S304).

[0088] The product identification unit 334 of the electronic shelf label management device 30 performs image recognition processing on the electronic shelf label image (product identification information) received by the communication unit 310 from the user terminal 20 and obtains text data indicating product sales information (step S305). The product identification unit 334 identifies the product associated with the electronic shelf label 40 on which the product sales information is displayed, based on the acquired product sales information (step S306). The product identification unit 334 transmits the product identification result to the user terminal 20 via the communication unit 310 (step S307).

[0089] The user terminal 20 displays the specific result received from the electronic shelf label management device 30 (step S308). The user confirms the specific result displayed on the user terminal 20 (step S309).

[0090] (4) Flow of product identification process by reading code symbols Referring to Figure 12, the flow of product identification processing by reading code symbols according to this embodiment will be explained. Figure 12 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of product identification processing by reading code symbols according to this embodiment.

[0091] As shown in Figure 12, first, the user performs a display switching operation on the user terminal 20 (step S401). In the display switching operation, the user selects, for example, the electronic shelf label 40 to be switched. When the user terminal 20 receives a display switching operation from the user, it sends a display switching request to the electronic shelf label management device 30 (step S402). When sending the display switching request, the user terminal 20 also sends information to the electronic shelf label management device 30 indicating the electronic shelf label 40 to be switched.

[0092] The display control unit 333 of the electronic shelf label management device 30 transmits second electronic shelf label display information to the electronic shelf label 40 and displays it based on a display switching request received by the communication unit 310 from the user terminal 20 (step S403).

[0093] The electronic shelf label 40 displays the second electronic shelf label display information received from the electronic shelf label management device 30 (step S404).

[0094] After the display is switched, the user performs a code symbol reading operation on the user terminal 20 (step S405). When the user terminal 20 receives a code symbol reading operation from the user, it reads the code symbol displayed on the electronic shelf label 40 (step S406). The user terminal 20 obtains the product ID from the electronic shelf label 40 by reading the code symbol (step S407). The user terminal 20 transmits the acquired product ID to the electronic shelf label management device 30 (step S408).

[0095] The product identification unit 334 of the electronic shelf label management device 30 identifies the product associated with the electronic shelf label 40 from which the product ID was obtained, based on the product ID (product identification information) received by the communication unit 310 from the user terminal 20 (step S409). The product identification unit 334 transmits the product identification result to the user terminal 20 via the communication unit 310 (step S410).

[0096] The user terminal 20 displays the specific result received from the electronic shelf label management device 30 (step S411). The user confirms the specific result displayed on the user terminal 20 (step S412).

[0097] The processing flow according to this embodiment has been described above. As described above, the electronic shelf label management device 30 according to this embodiment includes a display control unit 333 that displays either a first electronic shelf label display information which includes only product sales information relating to the sale of the product to which the electronic shelf label 40 is installed, or a second electronic shelf label display information which includes the product code symbol and product sales information, and switches the display from the first electronic shelf label display information to the second electronic shelf label display information when requested by the user, and a product identification unit 334 that identifies the product associated with the electronic shelf label 40 based on product identification information acquired by the user terminal 20 from the electronic shelf label 40 which is displaying either the first electronic shelf label display information or the second electronic shelf label display information, and displays the identification result on the user terminal 20.

[0098] With this configuration, the code symbol on the electronic shelf label 40 can be displayed or hidden as needed. By displaying the code symbol only when necessary and using it for business purposes, the display area of ​​the electronic shelf label can be effectively utilized to appeal to consumers. Furthermore, even when the code symbol is hidden, business operations can be performed using product identification information that can be obtained without using the code symbol. Therefore, a decrease in business efficiency due to the hiding of the code symbol can be prevented. Therefore, the electronic shelf label management device 30 according to this embodiment makes it possible to effectively utilize the display area of ​​electronic shelf labels without reducing operational efficiency.

[0099] <6. Variation> The embodiments have been described above. Next, modifications of the embodiments will be described. Each modification described below may be applied to the embodiments individually or in combination. Furthermore, each modification may be applied in place of the configuration described in the embodiments, or it may be applied in addition to the configuration described in the embodiments.

[0100] In the embodiments described above, an example was explained in which, when an electronic shelf label image is used as product identification information, the product identification unit 334 identifies a product based on text data recognized by image recognition processing of the electronic shelf label image. However, the invention is not limited to such examples. For example, if the display layout of the first electronic shelf label information is unique to each product, the product identification unit 334 may identify the product based on feature quantities extracted by image recognition processing of the electronic shelf label image. In this case, the product identification unit 334 extracts feature quantities of the display layout of the first electronic shelf label information shown in the electronic shelf label image (captured image) during the image recognition processing and obtains the feature quantities as recognition results. The product identification unit 334 identifies the product associated with the feature quantities shown in the obtained recognition results as the product associated with the electronic shelf label 40.

[0101] Furthermore, the first electronic shelf label display information, which is a unique display layout for each product, may be prepared manually by the user or automatically generated. In the case of automatic generation, the display information generation unit 332 generates the first electronic shelf label display information, which is a unique display layout for each product, based on the product sales information. The display information generation unit 332 sets the combination of display elements to differ for each product, such as the placement of product information and promotional information, the size of the display area, the type of font, the font size, the presence or absence of POP (Point of Purchase advertising), the content of the POP, and the display color, and generates the first electronic shelf label display information based on the settings for each product. The display information generation unit 332 may also use AI (Artificial Intelligence) to set combinations of display elements and generate the first electronic shelf label display information.

[0102] Furthermore, although the above-described embodiment explains an example in which the data acquisition unit 331 of the electronic shelf label management device 30 acquires product sales information entered by an administrator from the management terminal 10, the device is not limited to this example. For example, the data acquisition unit 331 may acquire product sales information managed by an external server or the like, which is not shown in Figure 1.

[0103] Furthermore, while the above-described embodiment explains an example in which display requests and display switching requests are transmitted from the user terminal 20 to the electronic shelf label management device 30, and the display and display switching of the electronic shelf labels 40 are controlled, the embodiment is not limited to this example. For example, if the target product (electronic shelf label) is identified in advance, the display requests and display switching requests may be transmitted from the management terminal 10 to the electronic shelf label management device 30.

[0104] Furthermore, while the above-described embodiment explains an example where the display and switching of the electronic shelf labels 40 are performed by a retail store employee (user), the invention is not limited to this example. For example, the display and switching of the electronic shelf labels 40 may be performed by an employee of the headquarters (head office) that manages multiple retail stores. In this case, the employee at headquarters performs the display operation or display switching operation on a user terminal 20 located at headquarters. When the user terminal 20 at headquarters receives a display operation or display switching operation from the employee at headquarters, it transmits a request corresponding to the operation to the electronic shelf label management device 30. The display control unit 333 of the electronic shelf label management device 30 transmits the second electronic shelf label display information to the electronic shelf labels 40 based on each request received from the user terminal 20 at headquarters, causing them to display. If the electronic shelf labels 40 that are the subject of display or display switching are installed in multiple stores, the display control unit 333 transmits the second electronic shelf label display information to the electronic shelf labels 40 in each store simultaneously. This allows the employee at headquarters to manage the electronic shelf labels 40 in multiple stores all at once. Furthermore, headquarters staff may perform display operations and display switching operations based on data managed on the management terminal 10. For example, headquarters staff may refer to product sales information such as product information and promotional information managed on the management terminal 10, select the products to be displayed or switched, and perform the display operation or display switching operation. If there are many products to be displayed or switched, headquarters staff may also perform the display operation or display switching operation (instruction) all at once.

[0105] The above describes some modified examples of the embodiments. Furthermore, some or all of the electronic shelf label management system 1, management terminal 10, user terminal 20, electronic shelf label management device 30, and electronic shelf labels 40 in the above-described embodiment may be implemented using a computer. In that case, the program for implementing this function may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program recorded on this recording medium may be loaded into a computer system and executed. The term "computer system" as used herein includes hardware such as an operating system and peripheral devices. Furthermore, "computer-readable recording media" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, as well as storage devices such as hard disks built into computer systems. In addition, "computer-readable recording media" may also include those that dynamically hold programs for a short period of time, such as communication lines used when transmitting programs over networks such as the Internet or communication lines such as telephone lines, and those that hold programs for a certain period of time, such as volatile memory inside computer systems that act as servers or clients in such cases. Furthermore, the above program may be for the purpose of implementing some of the functions described above, or it may be for the purpose of implementing the above functions in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system, or it may be implemented using a programmable logic device such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0106] Although embodiments of this invention have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to those described above, and various design changes can be made without departing from the spirit of this invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0107] 1…Electronic shelf label management system, 10…Management terminal, 20…User terminal, 30…Electronic shelf label management device, 40…Electronic shelf label, 210…Input unit, 220…Communication unit, 230…Imaging unit, 240…Reading unit, 250…Storage unit, 260…Control unit, 261…Input processing unit, 262…Acquisition processing unit, 263…Output processing unit, 270…Output unit, 310…Communication unit, 320…Storage unit, 330…Control unit, 331…Data acquisition unit, 332…Display information generation unit, 333…Display control unit, 334…Product identification unit, 410…Communication unit, 420…Storage unit, 430…Control unit, 440…Output unit, 431…Output processing unit

Claims

1. An electronic shelf label that displays either a first electronic shelf label display information containing only product sales information relating to the sale of the product to which the electronic shelf label is installed, or a second electronic shelf label display information containing the code symbol of the product and the product sales information, wherein the display control unit displays the first electronic shelf label display information and switches the display from the first electronic shelf label display information to the second electronic shelf label display information when requested by the user, A product identification unit identifies the product associated with an electronic shelf label based on product identification information acquired by a user terminal from the electronic shelf label displaying either the first electronic shelf label display information or the second electronic shelf label display information, and displays the identification result on the user terminal. An electronic shelf label management device equipped with the following features.

2. The product identification information is the identification information of the electronic shelf label obtained by the user terminal through short-range wireless communication with the electronic shelf label displaying the first electronic shelf label information. The product identification unit identifies the product associated with the electronic shelf label based on the product sales information associated with the acquired identification information of the electronic shelf label. The electronic shelf label management device according to claim 1.

3. The product identification information is an image captured by the user terminal of the electronic shelf label displaying the first electronic shelf label information, such that at least the first electronic shelf label information is included in the image. The product identification unit identifies the product associated with the electronic shelf label based on the recognition result obtained by image recognition processing on the acquired image. The electronic shelf label management device according to claim 1.

4. The product identification unit, in the image recognition process, recognizes the product sales information displayed in the first electronic shelf label display information shown in the captured image, and obtains text data representing the product sales information as the recognition result. The electronic shelf label management device according to claim 3.

5. If the display layout of the first electronic shelf label information is unique to each product, the product identification unit extracts feature quantities of the display layout of the first electronic shelf label information shown in the captured image during the image recognition process, and obtains these feature quantities as the recognition result. The electronic shelf label management device according to claim 3.

6. A display information generation unit generates the first electronic shelf label display information, which has a unique display layout for each product, based on the aforementioned product sales information. The electronic shelf label management device according to claim 5, further comprising:

7. The aforementioned product identification information is product identification information obtained by the user terminal by reading the code symbol from the electronic shelf label displaying the second electronic shelf label information. The product identification unit identifies the product associated with the electronic shelf label based on the product sales information associated with the acquired product identification information. The electronic shelf label management device according to claim 1.

8. The display control unit switches the display of the electronic shelf label from the first electronic shelf label display information to the second electronic shelf label display information, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, switches the display from the second electronic shelf label display information to the first electronic shelf label display information. The electronic shelf label management device according to claim 1.

9. An electronic shelf label that displays either a first electronic shelf label display information containing only product sales information relating to the sale of the product to which the electronic shelf label is installed, or a second electronic shelf label display information containing the code symbol of the product and the product sales information, wherein the first electronic shelf label display information is displayed, and when requested by the user, the display is switched from the first electronic shelf label display information to the second electronic shelf label display information, A product identification process that identifies the product associated with an electronic shelf label based on product identification information acquired by a user terminal from an electronic shelf label displaying either the first electronic shelf label information or the second electronic shelf label information, and displays the identification result on the user terminal. A computer-based electronic shelf label management method, including the following:

10. Computers, An electronic shelf label that displays either a first electronic shelf label display information containing only product sales information relating to the sale of the product to which the electronic shelf label is installed, or a second electronic shelf label display information containing the code symbol of the product and the product sales information, wherein the electronic shelf label displays the first electronic shelf label display information and, upon request from the user, switches the display from the first electronic shelf label display information to the second electronic shelf label display information, Product identification means that, based on product identification information acquired by a user terminal from the electronic shelf label displaying either the first electronic shelf label display information or the second electronic shelf label display information, identifies the product associated with the electronic shelf label and displays the identification result on the user terminal, A program designed to function as such.

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