Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To ensure smooth accounting processes. [Solution] An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a settlement unit that performs settlement processing based on information of registered goods or services, and a control unit that controls the movement of the device with a destination of an uncongested place or its vicinity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a system that scans the barcode of a sample on a display shelf using a portable POS (Point Of Sales) register and transmits the information to a cash register by far infrared rays.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the system described in Patent Document 1, the cash register is installed at the settlement location, and the location where accounting processing is performed is limited. Therefore, for example, in the case of a large store, a crowded store, etc., it may be difficult to perform smooth accounting processing.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program capable of performing smooth accounting processing.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information processing apparatus including a settlement unit that performs settlement processing based on information on a product or service for which a product has been registered, and a control unit that controls the movement of the self-apparatus with a non-crowded place or the vicinity thereof as a destination.

[0007] According to another aspect of the present invention, an information processing method is provided, comprising the steps of: performing a payment processing based on information of registered goods or services; and controlling the movement of the device to a location that is not crowded or is near such a location.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present invention, a program is provided for an information processing device that causes a computer to execute an information processing method, comprising the steps of: performing a settlement process based on information of registered goods or services; and controlling the movement of the device with a destination of an uncongested place or its vicinity. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, smooth accounting processing becomes possible. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram showing a POS system using an autonomous mobile POS device (information processing device) according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is an external view showing an example of an autonomous mobile POS device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram of an autonomous mobile POS device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This flowchart shows an example of accounting processing using an autonomous mobile POS device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This flowchart shows an example of processing using an autonomous mobile POS device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This flowchart shows an example of accounting processing using an autonomous mobile POS device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] This flowchart shows an example of accounting processing using an autonomous mobile POS device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a block diagram of an information processing device according to the fourth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] (First Embodiment) A first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 5.

[0012] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing a POS system (point-of-sale information management system) using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 according to this embodiment. The POS system is a computer system installed in a store 18 that sells goods or provides services, and is used, for example, in apparel stores, service providers, etc. The POS system includes the autonomous mobile POS device 10, a POS terminal 11, a store server 12, a server 13, peripheral devices 14, a network camera 15, and an access point 16. The POS terminal 11, store server 12, network camera 15, and access point 16 are connected to an in-store network 17, which is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network). Multiple stores 18 can be managed by the server 13.

[0013] The autonomous mobile POS device 10 moves autonomously and functions as a POS device that processes accounting for goods or services. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 is charged, for example, in a standby area 191 in the back room 19 and remains in a state where it can move autonomously. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 detects, for example, a predetermined action of a store employee and follows that employee to the display area 21. This allows customers to make payments using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21, without being limited to the cash register area 20. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 communicates wirelessly with, for example, an access point 16 in the store 18 via a wireless LAN connection such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), and can send and receive data with the POS terminal 11, store server 12, and network camera 15. The access point 16 is installed, for example, on the ceiling of the store 18, and may be installed in multiple locations depending on the size of the store 18. The number of autonomous mobile POS devices 10 is not particularly limited, and one or more autonomous mobile POS devices 10 can be installed in one store 18.

[0014] The POS terminal 11 is installed, for example, at the cash register of the cashier area 20 and performs accounting processing of goods or services. The POS terminal 11 is configured as, for example, a two-screen POS terminal including an operator display and a customer display. The number of POS terminals 11 is not particularly limited, and one or more POS terminals 11 can be installed in one store 18.

[0015] The store server 12 is installed, for example, in the backyard 19 and manages information related to products, inventory, sales, etc. The store server 12 includes a database in which product IDs, product names, prices, etc. for identifying individual products are stored.

[0016] The server 13 is connected to the store server 12 via a network such as the Internet (not shown) and is managed, for example, by a head office that oversees each store. The server 13 aggregates and centrally manages the sales data for each store.

[0017] The peripheral device 14 is connected to the POS terminal 11 and includes, for example, a barcode scanner, a printer, a non-contact IC (Integrated Circuit) reader / writer, a cash drawer, etc.

[0018] The network camera 15 is, for example, a surveillance camera installed on the ceiling of the display area 21 and acquires image information of the display area 21. The image information acquired by the network camera 15 is used, for example, in the autonomous mobile POS device 10 to calculate the distribution density of people in the display area 21.

[0019] FIG. 2 is an external view showing an example of the autonomous mobile POS device 10 according to the present embodiment. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 includes a main body device 100, a display device 105, a distance measuring device 107, a camera 108, a drive unit 109, buttons 113, a mounting table 130, etc.

[0020] The display device 105 is mounted on top of the main unit 100 and is used by store staff or customers. The display device 105 includes, for example, a display using liquid crystal, OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode), LED (Light Emitting Diode), etc., and a touch panel provided on the display. The display device 105 displays, for example, information related to accounting, advertising, etc. The display device 105 may be detachable from the main unit 100. In this case, the display device 105 is, for example, a tablet terminal and is equipped with a CPU, memory, communication I / F (Interface), etc. Store staff can remove the display device 105 from the main unit 100 and carry it around the store for use.

[0021] The distance measuring device 107 is located on the top of the main unit 100 and can detect the distance to a store employee or customer. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 can, for example, prevent collisions with people and move autonomously in response to people's movements, using the distance measuring device 107.

[0022] Camera 108 is mounted on the top of the main unit 100 and is capable of capturing images of the actions of store employees or customers. Based on the images acquired by camera 108, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 can, for example, detect predetermined actions of a person.

[0023] The drive unit 109 is located at the bottom of the main unit 100 and functions as a moving unit that autonomously moves the autonomous mobile POS device 10. The drive unit 109 is composed of, for example, a motor, a reduction gear, wheels, tires, etc.

[0024] The buttons 113 are provided on the main unit 100 and consist of, for example, a button for calling a store clerk, a button for moving the autonomous mobile POS device 10, etc. The mounting base 130 is provided on the main unit 100 and consists of, for example, a tray for mounting peripheral devices 14, etc.

[0025] Figure 3 is a block diagram of the autonomous mobile POS device 10 according to this embodiment. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 includes a CPU 101, ROM 102, RAM 103, storage device 104, display device 105, wireless communication unit 106, distance measuring device 107, camera 108, drive unit 109, audio output unit 110, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) reader / writer 111, position detection unit 112, button 113, code scanner 114, printer 115, contactless IC reader / writer 116, cash drawer 117, money processing unit 118, bus 119, power supply unit 120, battery 121, and connection connector 122. The CPU 101, ROM 102, RAM 103, storage device 104, display device 105, wireless communication unit 106, rangefinder 107, camera 108, drive unit 109, audio output unit 110, RFID reader / writer 111, position detection unit 112, button 113, code scanner 114, printer 115, contactless IC reader / writer 116, cash drawer 117, and money processing unit 118 are interconnected via a bus 119. The power supply unit 120 is connected to a battery 121 and a connection connector 122.

[0026] The CPU 101 controls each part of the autonomous mobile POS device 10 using an application program. The ROM 102 consists of non-volatile memory and stores the application program for controlling each part of the autonomous mobile POS device 10. The RAM 103 provides the memory area necessary for the operation of the CPU 101. The storage device 104 is a large-capacity storage device such as a hard disk.

[0027] The display device 105 includes a display 105a and a touch panel 105b. The display 105a is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an OLED display, an LED display, etc., and includes a driving circuit and an image processing circuit. The touch panel 105b includes a touch sensor that detects changes in capacitance or resistance.

[0028] The wireless communication unit 106 is a communication unit that transmits and receives data via wireless communication, and is configured to perform short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), wireless communication via Wi-Fi or other wireless LAN connections, infrared wireless communication, etc. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 can communicate with the POS terminal 11, the store server 12, and the network camera 15 via the wireless communication unit 106.

[0029] The distance measuring device 107, for example, consists of a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) device, a stereo camera device, etc., and acquires the spatial distribution of the distance to the object to be measured. Distance measurement by the distance measuring device 107 may be a three-dimensional measurement, for example, by scanning in two directions, vertical and horizontal, while measuring the distance in the depth direction. In this case, the distance measuring device 107 can acquire three-dimensional information within a range that includes store employees or customers. Furthermore, if the distance measuring device 107 is composed of a LiDAR device, the distance measurement accuracy in the depth direction can be improved compared to when a stereo camera etc. is used. The type of laser light source used in the LiDAR device is not particularly limited, and for example, it is a laser light source that emits invisible light such as infrared light.

[0030] The camera 108 includes, for example, an area sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor, and an analog-to-digital conversion circuit.

[0031] The drive unit 109 moves the autonomous mobile POS device 10 freely according to the control of the CPU 101. The audio output unit 110 includes a digital-to-analog conversion circuit that converts audio data into an analog signal, and an amplification circuit that amplifies the analog signal and drives a speaker. The audio output unit 110 outputs, for example, voice messages for preventing collisions with people, guidance voices for customers, etc.

[0032] The RFID reader / writer 111, for example, communicates wirelessly with an RFID chip that stores a product ID, receives the product ID, and outputs it. When a customer pays for a product, the RFID reader / writer 111, following the control of the CPU 101, writes the payment information to the RFID chip embedded in the tag of the paid product, for example.

[0033] The position detection unit 112 transmits, for example, the radio wave strength from the access point 16 of the store 18 to a location information calculation server (not shown), and obtains the location information calculated by the location information calculation server from the location information calculation server. The location information calculation server calculates the location information from a pre-measured radio wave strength model, for example, using triangulation techniques. For example, the location information obtained by the position detection unit 112 is transmitted to the POS terminal 11, the store server 12, the employee terminal held by the employee, etc., and is used to determine the location of the autonomous mobile POS device 10.

[0034] The buttons 113 consist of, for example, a button for calling a store employee, a button for moving the autonomous mobile POS device 10, etc. The code scanner 114 includes a CCD sensor or CMOS sensor, an LED light source, and an analog-to-digital conversion circuit. The CCD sensor or CMOS sensor may be a line sensor or an area sensor.

[0035] The printer 115 is equipped with a roll paper ejection mechanism, an inkjet mechanism, and a drive circuit, and prints and outputs receipts, etc. The contactless IC reader / writer 116 obtains credit card information, electronic money information, etc. for payment from, for example, a contactless IC chip on a mobile terminal or card or other medium held by the customer.

[0036] The cash drawer 117 stores coins, banknotes, etc., for cash payments and is opened according to the control of the CPU 101. The cash drawer 117 is used when a customer makes a cash payment through a store employee.

[0037] The money processing unit 118 comprises a coin processing unit 118a, a banknote processing unit 118b, and a change processing unit 118c. The money processing unit 118 functions when a customer uses the autonomous mobile POS device 10 as a self-checkout machine to make a cash payment.

[0038] The coin processing unit 118a includes a coin transport mechanism, a sensor for detecting the type of coin, a coin sorting mechanism for sorting coins by type, a counter for counting coins by type, and a coin storage unit for storing coins. The coin processing unit 118a stores the inserted coins in the coin storage unit according to the type of coin detected by the sensor, according to their type.

[0039] The banknote processing unit 118b includes a banknote transport mechanism, a sensor for detecting the type of banknote, a banknote sorting mechanism for sorting banknotes by type, a counter for counting banknotes by type, and a banknote storage compartment for storing banknotes. The banknote processing unit 118b stores the deposited banknotes in the banknote storage compartment according to the type of banknote detected by the sensor.

[0040] The change processing unit 118c includes a control unit that determines the type of coins or banknotes that make up the change, and a transport mechanism that dispenses the change from the coin storage unit or banknote storage unit.

[0041] The connection connector 122 is a connector for connecting the autonomous mobile POS device 10 to the charger. By connecting the connection connector 122 to the charger's connection connector, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 is electrically connected to the charger. The connection method is not particularly limited, and various methods can be adopted. For example, the connection connector 122 and the charger's connection connector may each be made of contact terminals with corresponding contacts arranged side by side, and the two may be electrically connected by the contacts coming into contact with each other through alignment using magnetic attraction, three-dimensional shape, etc. Alternatively, for example, the charger's connection connector may be male and the connection connector 122 may be female, and the two may be electrically connected by the charger's connection connector being fitted into the connection connector 122.

[0042] When the autonomous mobile POS device 10 is connected to the charger, the power supply unit 120 charges the battery 121 with the charging power supplied from the charger. The power supply unit 120 also supplies the drive power supplied from the charger to each part of the autonomous mobile POS device 10.

[0043] If the autonomous mobile POS device 10 is not connected to a charger, the power supply unit 120 supplies power from the battery 121 to each part of the autonomous mobile POS device 10. When the battery level of the autonomous mobile POS device 10 falls below a predetermined threshold, it moves to the standby area 191 where the charger is installed. For example, when the autonomous mobile POS device 10 stops at a predetermined charging spot in the standby area 191, the connection connector 122 is connected to the charger's connection connector, and the battery 121 is automatically charged. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 also outputs a warning to the store clerk or customer when the battery level falls below a predetermined threshold. Examples of warning output methods include displaying a warning message on the display device 105 indicating that the battery level is below a predetermined threshold, or outputting that message as an audio message using the audio output unit 110. Alternatively, a store clerk may connect the autonomous mobile POS device 10 to the charger to charge the battery 121. In this case, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 transmits a warning via the wireless communication unit 106 that the battery level is below a predetermined threshold to, for example, the POS terminal 11, the store server 12, or a terminal held by a store employee. This allows the employee to be aware that the battery level 121 is low and to quickly charge the autonomous mobile POS device 10.

[0044] The code scanner 114, printer 115, contactless IC reader / writer 116, and cash drawer 117 may be fixed to the housing of the autonomous mobile POS device 10, or they may be detachable from the autonomous mobile POS device 10. If they are detachable, these devices may be placed, for example, on a mounting base 130.

[0045] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing an example of accounting processing using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 according to this embodiment.

[0046] First, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 is charged in the standby area 191 and waits in a state where it can move autonomously (step S101). When a store employee performs a predetermined event, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 detects the event (step S102). Examples of predetermined events include performing a predetermined action, pressing a button, or entering a command. Examples of predetermined actions include gestures such as raising a hand, spreading a hand, or waving a hand. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 identifies the store employee to be tracked (step S103).

[0047] The autonomous mobile POS device 10 tracks the store clerk while maintaining a certain distance from them using the distance measuring device 107 (step S104). The certain distance is not particularly limited and can be any distance that does not interfere with the store clerk's customer service or work, for example, about 2m. The store clerk moves as appropriate around the display area 21 and provides customer service (step S105). If the customer being served purchases an item (YES in step S106), the store clerk uses the RFID reader / writer 111 to read the tag attached to the item purchased by the customer (step S107). The item tag has a built-in RFID chip with the item ID stored in it. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 can move to the vicinity of the store clerk, for example, based on the store clerk's predetermined gestures, and the store clerk can operate the autonomous mobile POS device 10. On the other hand, if the customer being served does not purchase an item (NO in step S106), the process returns to step S105.

[0048] The autonomous mobile POS device 10 obtains the product ID from the RFID chip embedded in the product tag using the RFID reader / writer 111 (step S108). If the product tag does not have an RFID chip embedded, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 obtains the product ID by reading the product code on the product tag using the code scanner 114, for example. In this case, the product code may be a one-dimensional barcode or a two-dimensional code such as a QR code (registered trademark). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 accesses the store server 12 via the wireless communication unit 106 (step S109) and obtains product information from the database based on the product ID (step S110). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 displays accounting information such as the product name and price on the display device 105 (step S111). The customer makes a payment using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21 based on the accounting information displayed on the display device 105 (step S112). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 uses an RFID reader / writer 111 to write payment information to the RFID chip embedded in the product tag (step S113). This makes it possible to distinguish between paid and unpaid products. For example, by installing gates capable of reading RFID chip information at the entrance and exit of the store 18 and emitting a warning sound when unpaid products are taken out of the store, it is possible to prevent unpaid products from being taken out of the store.

[0049] Furthermore, accounting for services is performed based on a medium containing an RFID chip with a stored service ID. The service ID is information used to identify a service. Examples of such mediums include paper, cards, and plates. When a customer pays for a service, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 uses an RFID reader / writer 111 to write the accounting information to the RFID chip embedded in the medium of the accounted-for service. This allows for the identification of accounted-for services from unaccounted-for services.

[0050] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of processing using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 according to this embodiment.

[0051] First, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 is charged in the standby area 191 and waits in a state where it can move autonomously (step S201). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 obtains image information of the display area 21 and information identifying the imaging area in the display area 21 from the network camera 15 via the wireless communication unit 106 (step S202). Based on the image information, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 calculates the distribution density of people in the display area 21 (step S203).

[0052] The autonomous mobile POS device 10 determines whether the distribution density of people exceeds a predetermined threshold (step S204). If it is determined that the distribution density of people exceeds the predetermined threshold (YES in step S204), the autonomous mobile POS device 10 determines a destination in the display area 21 (step S205). Possible destinations include, for example, the imaging area where the distribution density of people exceeds the predetermined threshold, or the vicinity of that imaging area. In other words, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 moves to a place in the display area 21 where customers are concentrated. This allows customers to make payments using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21 without having to move from a crowded area to the cashier area 20. On the other hand, if it is determined that the distribution density of people does not exceed the predetermined threshold (NO in step S204), the process returns to step S202.

[0053] The autonomous mobile POS device 10 determines whether or not it is configured to send a request for assistance notification to the employee's terminal (step S206). The request for assistance notification includes information about the destination. If it is determined that it is configured to send a request for assistance notification (YES in step S206), the autonomous mobile POS device 10 sends a request for assistance notification to the employee's terminal (step S207). On the other hand, if it is determined that it is not configured to send a request for assistance notification (NO in step S206), the process proceeds to step S208.

[0054] The autonomous mobile POS device 10 starts moving (step S208) and arrives at its destination in the display area 21 (step S209). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 determines whether or not there is a reply from the employee terminal (step S210). If it is determined that there is a reply from the employee terminal (YES in step S210), the autonomous mobile POS device 10 waits in the display area 21 (step S211). The employee arrives at the destination and serves the customer (step S212). If the customer purchases an item, the employee reads the item tag using the autonomous mobile POS device 10, and the customer makes the payment using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21 (step S213).

[0055] If it is determined that there is no response from the employee terminal (NO in step S210), the autonomous mobile POS device 10 outputs an announcement to the customer using the voice output unit 110 (step S214). Reasons for no response from the employee terminal include, for example, the employee who saw the request for assistance notification is unable to respond because they are serving another customer, or the system is not set to send a request for assistance. Examples of announcement messages include, "If you would like to call an employee, please press the employee call button," or messages advertising products or services. The message may also be displayed on the display device 105. If the customer presses the employee call button (YES in step S215), the system proceeds to step S212. In this case, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 transmits the location information acquired by the location detection unit 112 along with the employee call notification to the POS terminal 11, the store server 12, the employee terminal held by the employee, etc. This allows the employee to quickly move to the location of the customer who pressed the employee call button and serve that customer. On the other hand, if the customer does not press the staff call button (NO in step S215), the customer makes a payment using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21 based on instructions for self-checkout displayed on the display device 105 (step S216). Examples of instructions include instructions on reading product tags, reading IC cards for electronic payments, and inserting coins and banknotes for cash payments. In this way, the customer can choose whether or not to call a staff member using the autonomous mobile POS device 10. Alternatively, a staff member may be called by performing a predetermined gesture, entering a command, etc.

[0056] Furthermore, if it is determined that the density of people exceeds a predetermined threshold, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 may, for example, avoid areas where customers are concentrated and determine its movement route and destination. In this case, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 avoids crowded areas and moves to areas where customers are not concentrated. This allows customers to make payments using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 in less crowded areas without the autonomous mobile POS device 10 interfering with their shopping. In this case, it is desirable that the threshold is higher than the threshold in step S204. In this way, by using multiple different thresholds, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 can be moved to a location suitable for accounting processing. Furthermore, after arriving at its destination, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 may output an audio announcement or the like to inform customers of its location.

[0057] Furthermore, the destination of other autonomous mobile POS devices 10B may be determined based on the usage status of autonomous mobile POS device 10A. For example, consider a case where autonomous mobile POS device 10A has already moved to a predetermined location in the display area 21 and is being used by a store employee or customer. If the density of people at the predetermined location in the display area 21 is high, other autonomous mobile POS devices 10B may be moved to a vicinity of the predetermined location. By placing other autonomous mobile POS devices 10B near the predetermined location, customers can make payments using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21 without having to move from the crowded area to the cashier area 20.

[0058] Figure 5 illustrates a case where the distribution density of people is calculated and the destination of the autonomous mobile POS device 10 is determined, but it is not limited to this. For example, the destination of the autonomous mobile POS device 10 may be determined based on the positions of multiple people. Alternatively, if the number of people in a predetermined location within the store exceeds a threshold, the destination of the autonomous mobile POS device 10 may be determined to be that predetermined location or its vicinity.

[0059] Thus, in this embodiment, customers are not limited to the cashier area 20, but make payments using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21. Therefore, according to this embodiment, smooth accounting processing can be achieved.

[0060] (Second Embodiment) A second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 6. Components similar to those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted or kept brief.

[0061] In this embodiment, it is assumed that the autonomous mobile POS device 10 moves along a predetermined path based on, for example, induced current from electrical wires installed on the floor, magnetic tape or markers attached to the floor, similar to an AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 moves based on a schedule pre-registered by a store employee. The schedule includes, for example, the start time of movement, the route to move, the destination, and the waiting time at the destination. Customers use the autonomous mobile POS device 10 as a self-checkout counter, and gates capable of reading RFID chip information are installed at the entrance and exit of the store 18.

[0062] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of accounting processing using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 according to this embodiment.

[0063] First, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 is charged in the standby area 191 and waits in a state where it can move autonomously (step S301). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 checks the pre-registered schedule (step S302) and determines whether the current time is the start time for movement (step S303). If it is determined that the current time is the start time for movement (YES in step S303), the autonomous mobile POS device 10 moves along a predetermined route based on the registered schedule (step S304). On the other hand, if it is determined that the current time is not the start time for movement (NO in step S303), the process returns to step S302.

[0064] The autonomous mobile POS device 10 arrives at a destination registered in the schedule (step S305). If the customer purchases a product (YES in step S306), the customer uses the RFID reader / writer 111 to read the tag attached to the product to be purchased, based on instructions for self-checkout displayed on the display device 105 (step S307). Examples of instructions include instructions on reading product tags, reading IC cards for electronic payments, and inserting coins and banknotes for cash payments. On the other hand, if the customer does not purchase a product (NO in step S306), the process proceeds to step S314.

[0065] The autonomous mobile POS device 10 obtains the product ID from the RFID chip embedded in the product tag using the RFID reader / writer 111 (step S308). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 accesses the store server 12 via the wireless communication unit 106 (step S309) and obtains product information from the database based on the product ID (step S310). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 displays accounting information such as product name and price on the display device 105 (step S311). The customer makes a payment using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21 based on the accounting information displayed on the display device 105 (step S312). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 writes the completed payment information to the RFID chip embedded in the product tag using the RFID reader / writer 111 (step S313). Since gates capable of reading RFID chip information are installed at the entrance and exit of the store 18, if a customer takes unpaid products out of the store, an alarm sound or the like will be emitted. This prevents unpaid merchandise from being taken out of the store.

[0066] The autonomous mobile POS device 10 determines whether the elapsed time since arriving at the destination exceeds the waiting time registered in the schedule (step S314). If it is determined that the elapsed time has exceeded the waiting time (YES in step S314), the autonomous mobile POS device 10 moves to the waiting area 191 (step S315). On the other hand, if it is determined that the elapsed time has not exceeded the waiting time (NO in step S314), the process returns to step S306.

[0067] Thus, in this embodiment, customers are not limited to the cashier area 20, but can make payments in the display area 21 using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 without the need for store staff. Therefore, according to this embodiment, smooth accounting processing can be achieved.

[0068] (Third embodiment) A third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 7. Components similar to those in the first and second embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted or kept brief.

[0069] In this embodiment, it is assumed that store 18 is an unmanned store. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 functions as a robot that provides customer service, such as through dialogue. An entrance gate is installed at the entrance of store 18, and an exit gate capable of reading RFID chip information is installed at the exit of store 18. The entrance gate and exit gate may be configured as, for example, flapper-type gates with two flaps, but they may also be configured using a single flap.

[0070] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of accounting processing using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 according to this embodiment.

[0071] First, when a customer enters store 18 and stands in front of the entrance gate (step S401), the entrance gate is opened (step S402). When the customer performs a predetermined event, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 detects the event (step S403). Examples of predetermined events include performing a predetermined action, pressing a button, or entering a command. Examples of predetermined actions include gestures such as raising a hand, spreading a hand, or waving a hand. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 identifies the customer to be tracked (step S404).

[0072] The autonomous mobile POS device 10 tracks the customer while maintaining a certain distance from them using the distance measuring device 107 (step S405). This certain distance is not particularly limited and can be any distance that does not hinder the customer's shopping, for example, about 2m. The customer selects the items to purchase (step S406) and, based on the instructions for self-checkout displayed on the display device 105, reads the tags attached to the purchased items using the RFID reader / writer 111 (step S407). Examples of instructions include instructions for reading product tags, reading IC cards for electronic payments, and inserting coins and banknotes for cash payments. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 can move to the vicinity of the customer based on, for example, a predetermined gesture by the customer, and the customer can operate the autonomous mobile POS device 10. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 obtains the product ID from the RFID chip embedded in the product tag using the RFID reader / writer 111 (step S408). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 accesses the store server 12 via the wireless communication unit 106 (step S409) and retrieves product information from the database based on the product ID (step S410). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 displays accounting information such as product name and price on the display device 105 (step S411). The customer makes a payment using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21 based on the accounting information displayed on the display device 105 (step S412). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 writes the accounting information to the RFID chip embedded in the product tag using the RFID reader / writer 111 (step S413). This makes it possible to distinguish between items that have been paid for and items that have not yet been paid for. After the accounting process is complete, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 moves to a designated waiting area.

[0073] The customer packs their goods and moves to the exit gate (step S414). If there are no unpaid items among the packed goods (NO in step S415), the exit gate is opened (step S416), and the customer can exit store 18 (step S417). On the other hand, if there are unpaid items among the packed goods (YES in step S415), for example, a warning sound is emitted (step S418), the exit gate is not opened, and the customer cannot exit store 18 (step S419). This prevents unpaid goods from being taken out of the store.

[0074] Thus, in this embodiment, customers make payments using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21, rather than being limited to, for example, the self-checkout area, in an unmanned store. Therefore, according to this embodiment, smooth accounting processing can be achieved.

[0075] (Fourth Embodiment) A fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 8.

[0076] Figure 8 is a block diagram of the information processing device 30 according to this embodiment. The information processing device 30 includes a mobile unit 40 that performs accounting processing for goods or services and autonomously moves the information processing device 30, a detection unit 50 that can detect the position of a person, and a control unit 60 that controls the mobile unit 40 according to the position of the person. With this configuration, customers can make payments using the autonomously moving information processing device 30 in the display area, not limited to the cash register area. Therefore, according to this embodiment, smooth accounting processing can be performed.

[0077] (Other embodiments) The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0078] In the above-described embodiment, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 calculates the distribution density of people based on image information acquired by the network camera 15 and determines its destination, but it is not limited to this. For example, the distance measuring device 107 may be used to acquire information on the distribution of people within the store and determine the destination. Alternatively, the destination may be determined based on image information acquired by the camera 108. In this case, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 is equipped with a facial recognition function and compares pre-registered facial image data of store employees with the faces captured in the images acquired by the camera 108 to identify whether the person being photographed by the camera 108 is a store employee or a customer. This allows the autonomous mobile POS device 10 to move to, for example, a location with many customers and few store employees. When the autonomous mobile POS device 10 is equipped with a facial recognition function, the payment method may be facial recognition payment. In this case, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 performs identity authentication by comparing pre-registered customer facial image data with the faces captured in the images acquired by the camera 108. Once identity verification is successful, payment is processed based on the customer's credit card information, which has been registered and associated with facial image data.

[0079] Furthermore, although the above embodiment described the case where the standby location for the autonomous mobile POS device 10 is the standby area 191, it is not limited to this. Any location that does not interfere with the store staff's customer service and work, customer shopping, or people's movement is acceptable, for example, empty space in the cash register area 20 or the display area 21.

[0080] Furthermore, although the above embodiment described the case where the charging location for the autonomous mobile POS device 10 is the standby area 191, it is not limited to this. Any location where a charger can be installed and which does not interfere with the store staff's customer service and work, customer shopping, or people's movement is acceptable, for example, empty space in the cash register area 20 or the display area 21.

[0081] Furthermore, the processing method of recording a program that operates the configuration of each embodiment in order to realize the functions of each embodiment described above on a recording medium, reading the program recorded on the recording medium as code, and executing it on a computer is also included in the scope of each embodiment. In other words, computer-readable recording media are also included in the scope of each embodiment. Moreover, not only the recording medium on which the above-mentioned computer program is recorded, but also the computer program itself is included in each embodiment.

[0082] Some or all of the embodiments described above may also be described as follows, but are not limited to the following.

[0083] (Note 1) An information processing device for accounting processing of goods or services, characterized by comprising: a mobile unit for autonomously moving the information processing device; a detection unit capable of detecting the position of a person; and a control unit for controlling the mobile unit according to the position of the person.

[0084] (Note 2) The information processing apparatus according to Appendix 1, characterized in that the control unit controls the movement unit so that the information processing apparatus moves in accordance with the movement of the person.

[0085] (Note 3) The information processing apparatus according to Appendix 1 or 2, wherein the detection unit further detects the movements of the person, and the control unit controls the movement unit so that the information processing apparatus moves autonomously in accordance with the movements.

[0086] (Note 4) The information processing apparatus according to any one of the appendices 1 to 3, characterized in that the control unit determines the destination of the information processing apparatus based on the distribution of a plurality of persons.

[0087] (Note 5) The information processing apparatus according to Appendix 4, characterized in that the control unit acquires information from an imaging unit installed in the store and calculates the distribution.

[0088] (Note 6) The information processing apparatus according to any one of the appendices 1 to 5, characterized in that the control unit controls the moving unit based on a predetermined schedule, and the schedule includes at least one piece of information: the start time of movement of the information processing apparatus, the movement route, and the destination.

[0089] (Note 7) The information processing apparatus according to any one of the appendices 1 to 6, characterized in that the control unit controls the mobile unit to move the information processing apparatus to a predetermined charging location when the remaining battery charge for driving the mobile unit falls below a threshold.

[0090] (Note 8) The information processing apparatus according to any one of the appendices 1 to 7, characterized in that the detection unit is capable of detecting the distance to the distance to be measured.

[0091] (Note 9) The information processing device according to any one of the appendices 1 to 8, characterized by comprising a display unit that displays instructions for the customer to perform the aforementioned accounting process.

[0092] (Note 10) The information processing device according to Appendix 9, characterized in that, when the aforementioned accounting is performed by the customer, it adds identification information to the product or to a medium that identifies the service, to indicate that the aforementioned accounting has been performed.

[0093] (Note 11) An information processing method for an information processing device that performs accounting processing for goods or services, characterized by comprising the steps of: autonomously moving the information processing device by a mobile unit; detecting the position of a person; and controlling the mobile unit according to the position of the person.

[0094] (Note 12) A program that causes a computer to execute an information processing method for an information processing device that performs accounting processing for goods or services, the program comprising the steps of: autonomously moving the information processing device by a mobile unit; detecting the position of a person; and controlling the mobile unit according to the position of the person. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0095] 10 Autonomous mobile POS device 11 POS terminals 12 Store Servers 13 Servers 14 Peripherals 15 Network Cameras 16 Access Points 17 In-store network 18 stores 19 Backyard 20 Checkout Area 21 Display Area 100 Main unit 101 CPU 102 ROM 103 RAM 104 Storage device 105 Display device 105a Display 105b Touch Panel 106 Wireless Communication Section 107 Ranging device 108 Cameras 109 Drive unit 110 Audio output section 111 RFID Reader / Writer 112 Position detection unit 113 buttons 114 Code Scanner 115 Printer 116 Contactless IC Reader / Writer 117 Cash drawer 118 Financial Processing Department 118a Coin Processing Unit 118b Banknote Processing Unit 118c Change Processing Unit 119 Bus 120 Power supply section 121 Battery 122 Connection Connectors 130 Mounting platform 191 Waiting Area

Claims

1. A payment processing unit that processes payments based on the information of registered products or services, An acquisition unit that acquires image information of a predetermined area, A determination unit determines that a predetermined area is a crowded place when the distribution density of people exceeds a predetermined threshold, or when the number of people exceeds a predetermined threshold, based on the aforementioned image information. The system includes a control unit that controls the autonomous movement of the information processing device with the aforementioned crowded location as its destination, The information processing device is characterized in that the control unit controls the information processing device to send a request for assistance notification, which includes information about the destination, to a terminal for store employees before the information processing device moves to the destination.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, if the control unit is set to send the support request notification, it sends the support request notification to the employee terminal.

3. The information processing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the control unit determines whether or not there is a reply from the employee terminal, and if there is a reply, it causes the information processing device to wait at the destination.

4. The information processing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the control unit determines whether or not there is a reply from the employee terminal, and if there is no reply, causes the information processing device to execute an announcement to the customer.

5. Equipped with a human detection unit, The control unit controls autonomous movement to approach the detected person. The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the target of the detection is a customer who is to perform the payment processing.

6. The information processing device according to claim 5, wherein the detection unit detects a predetermined movement of a person.

7. The control unit controls the movement of the information processing device based on a predetermined schedule. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the schedule includes the destination as a travel route.

8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the schedule includes waiting time at the destination.

9. Equipped with an imaging means for capturing an image of the person making the payment, The payment unit performs facial recognition payment based on the image, as described in any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a display unit that displays instructions for the customer to perform the aforementioned payment processing.

11. The information processing device according to claim 10, wherein, when the payment processing is performed by the customer, identification information indicating that the payment processing has been performed is added to the product, or the identification information is added to a medium that identifies the service.

12. A method of information processing performed by a computer, The first step is to process payment based on the information of the registered product or service, The second step involves acquiring image information of a designated area, A third step in which, based on the aforementioned image information, if the distribution density of people exceeds a predetermined threshold, or if the number of people exceeds a predetermined threshold, the predetermined area is determined to be a crowded place. The system includes a fourth step of controlling the autonomous movement of the information processing device with the aforementioned crowded place as its destination, The fourth step is characterized by controlling the information processing device to send a request for assistance notification, including information about the destination, to a terminal for store employees before it moves to the destination.

13. A program that causes a computer to execute an information processing method in an information processing device, The first step is to process payment based on the information of the registered product or service, The second step involves acquiring image information of a designated area, A third step in which, based on the aforementioned image information, if the distribution density of people exceeds a predetermined threshold, or if the number of people exceeds a predetermined threshold, the predetermined area is determined to be a crowded place. The system includes a fourth step of controlling the autonomous movement of the information processing device with the aforementioned crowded place as its destination, The fourth step is characterized by a program that controls the information processing device to send a request for assistance notification, including information about the destination, to a terminal for store employees before the device moves to the destination.

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