Measuring device

Abstract

The objective is to provide a weighing device that can suitably handle various situations that may arise in weighing and selling products. [Solution] The weighing device comprises a base and a platform, a weighing unit for weighing the purchase weight of an item placed on the platform, a display unit for displaying the weighing result from the weighing unit, an input unit for inputting information regarding the purchase of an item, and a support column connecting the display input unit to the weighing unit, wherein the upper part of the support column is provided with the display input unit, and the lower part of the support column is provided in front of the base, and the display input unit is movable between a first position facing the front of the item placed on the platform and a second position spaced away from the front of the item and not facing the front of the item.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a weighing device.

Background Art

[0002] An electronic scale that weighs an item to be purchased and calculates the price from the unit price per unit weight of the item is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, the conventional electronic scale as shown in Patent Document 1 does not sufficiently cope with various scenarios assumed in weighing sales, and there is room for improvement.

[0005] Therefore, in view of such circumstances, an object of the present invention is to provide a weighing device that suitably copes with various scenarios assumed in weighing sales.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The weighing device of the present invention includes at least the following configuration. The device comprises a base and a platform, a weighing unit for weighing the purchase weight of an item placed on the platform, a display unit for displaying the weighing result from the weighing unit, and a display input unit for inputting information regarding the purchase of an item, and a support column connecting the display input unit to the weighing unit, wherein the upper part of the support column is provided with the display input unit, and the lower part of the support column is provided in front of the base, and the display input unit is movable between a first position facing the front of the item placed on the platform and a second position spaced away from the front of the item and not facing the front of the item. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] This is an example of the network configuration of the sales processing system 1 according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a perspective conceptual diagram showing an example of the appearance of sales unit 2 with sales processing system 1 installed. [Figure 3] Figure 3(a) shows an example of the configuration of the weighing device 10, and Figure 3(b) is a perspective conceptual diagram showing an example of the appearance of the weighing device 10. [Figure 4] Figure 4(a) shows the weighing device 10 and other components in the state when goods are being dispensed from the goods supply device 100 into the container 120 (when the weighed weight is not yet stable), and Figure 4(b) shows the weighing device 10 and other components in the state after the goods have been dispensed from the goods supply device 100 into the container 120 (when the weighed weight is stable). [Figure 5] Figure 5(a) is a perspective conceptual diagram showing an example of the appearance of the weighing device 20, and Figure 5(b) is a side conceptual diagram showing an example of the appearance of the weighing device 20. [Figure 6] Figure 6(a) shows the weighing device 20 and other components in the state where goods are being dispensed from the goods supply device 200 into the container 220 (the weighed weight is not yet stable), and Figure 6(b) is an explanatory diagram showing the weighing device 20 and other components in the state where the goods have finished being dispensed from the goods supply device 200 into the container 220 (the weighed weight is stable). [Figure 7]This is a conceptual side view showing that the support column 50 is rotatably connected to the weighing section 24 of the weighing device 20 between an upright position and a fallen position. [Figure 8] This is a perspective conceptual diagram showing an example of the appearance of the weighing device 30. [Figure 9] Figure 9(a) shows the state of the weighing device 30, etc., when goods are being dispensed from the goods supply device 300 to the weighing device 30 (when the weighed weight is not yet stable). Figure 9(b) shows the state of the weighing device 30, etc., when all goods have been dispensed from the goods supply device 300 to the weighing device 30 (when the weighed weight is stable). Figure 9(c) shows the state of the weighing device 30, etc., when goods are being dispensed from the weighing device 30 to the container 320 (when the weighed weight is not yet stable). [Figure 10] Figure 10(a) shows an example of the structure of the mounting member 600 that constitutes the rotating part 60 of the weighing device 20. Figure 10(b) is a perspective conceptual view of the mounting member 600 seen from above, and Figure 10(b) is a perspective conceptual view of the mounting member 600 seen from below. [Figure 11] Figures 11(a) and 11(b) are perspective conceptual diagrams showing an example of the arrangement structure (main part) of the mounting member 600, side plate member 610, and locking part 620 that constitute the rotating part 60 of the weighing device 20, and Figure 11(c) is a perspective conceptual diagram showing an example of the structure of the locking part 620. [Figure 12] This is a side view conceptual diagram showing an example of the operation of the holding mechanism (main part) of the rotating section 60. [Figure 13] Figure 13(a) shows a plan schematic (main part) illustrating another example of a holding mechanism. Figure 13(a) shows the unlocked state where the locking portion 710 and the locked portion 720 are not engaged, while Figure 13(b) shows the locked state where the locking portion 710 and the locked portion 720 are engaged. [Figure 14] This is a conceptual front view of a weighing device 20A according to another embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 14(a) shows a state in which the display input unit is located in a first position facing the front of the object to be placed, and Figure 14(b) shows a state in which the display input unit has moved to a second position, spaced away from the front of the object to be placed and not facing the front of the object to be placed. [Figure 15]This is a conceptual front view of a weighing device 20B according to another embodiment 2 of the present invention. Figure 15(a) shows a state in which the display input unit is located in a first position facing the front of the object to be placed, and Figure 15(b) shows a state in which the display input unit has moved to a second position, spaced away from the front of the object to be placed and not facing the front of the object to be placed. [Figure 16] This is a conceptual front view of a weighing device 20C according to another embodiment 3 of the present invention. Figure 16(a) shows a state in which the display input unit is located in a first position facing the front of the object to be placed, and Figure 16(b) shows a state in which the display input unit has moved to a second position, spaced away from the front of the object to be placed and not facing the front of the object to be placed. [Figure 17] This is a side view conceptual diagram of another modified weighing device 20D according to the present invention. Figure 17(a) shows a state in which the display input unit and support column 50D are located in front of the front of the object to be placed on, and Figure 17(b) shows a state in which the display input unit and support column 50D have moved behind the front of the object to be placed on. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Figure 1 shows an example of the network configuration of a sales processing system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The sales processing system 1 includes a weighing device 10, a weighing device 20, a weighing device 30, and a display and printing device 40. For example, as shown in Figure 1, the sales processing system 1 includes six weighing devices 10 (weighing device 10-1, weighing device 10-2, ..., weighing device 10-6), four weighing devices 20 (weighing device 20-1, weighing device 20-2, ..., weighing device 20-4), ten weighing devices 30 (weighing device 30-1, weighing device 30-2, ..., weighing device 30-10), and one display and printing device 40. Note that the number of devices shown is just an example. In other words, the number of weighing devices 10 can be one or more. The same applies to the number of weighing devices 20, weighing devices 30, and display and printing devices 40.

[0009] Each device within the sales processing system 1 is communicably connected. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, for example, each device is communicably connected by a multi-drop (chain) type using RS-485. Note that the connection form is not limited to the multi-drop type. For example, it may be a star type centered on the display printing device 40, or a ring type including the display printing device 40. Also, it may be wireless communication. Note that power supply and communication may be performed using a common cable or the like.

[0010] Each device (weighing device 10, weighing device 20, weighing device 30, display printing device 40) constituting the sales processing system 1 is operated by the customer himself / herself who purchases an article to be weighed and sold. That is, normal processing (transactions) in each device is performed by the customer himself / herself. On the other hand, specific processing (various setting processes, processing after calling a store clerk, processing after an error occurs, etc.) in each device is performed by the store clerk.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective conceptual diagram showing an example of the appearance of the sales unit 2 in which the sales processing system 1 is introduced. The sales processing system 1 is introduced into a store (for example, a supermarket, etc.) that handles articles (hereinafter, may be simply referred to as articles or goods) to be weighed and sold. For example, the sales processing system 1 is introduced into the store as the sales unit 2 as shown in FIG. 2.

[0012] (Sales unit 2) The sales unit 2 is composed of a shelf 3, a first weighing unit 4A, a second weighing unit 4B, a third weighing unit 4C, and a display printing device 40.

[0013] (First weighing unit 4A) The first weighing unit 4A is composed of six weighing devices 10 and six article supply devices 100. One article supply device 100 is set for each of the weighing devices 10. That is, the first weighing unit 4A includes six sets each consisting of one weighing device 10 and one article supply device 100. In the vicinity of each weighing device 10 (or article supply device 100), a scoop (not shown) used when taking out an article from the article supply device 100 is installed.

[0014] The article supply device 100 includes a storage part 101, an input part 102A (see Fig. 4(a)), an extraction part 102B (see Fig. 4(a)), and a lid part 103. The storage part 101 stores articles (individuals). The input part 102A is an input port for inputting the articles to be stored in the storage part 101. The extraction part 102B is an extraction port for extracting the articles stored in the storage part 101. The lid part 103 is operated (opened) when extracting the articles stored in the storage part 101 from the extraction part 102B.

[0015] The article supply device 100 is installed such that the weight of the article supply device 100 and the weight of the articles stored in the article supply device 100 are weighed by the weighing device 10. In other words, in the customer-waiting state (non-transaction state, standby state), the weighing device 10 weighs the article supply device 100 and the articles stored in the article supply device 100. That is, the weighing device 10 grasps the decrease in the weighed weight before and after the customer takes out an article as the purchase weight (sales weight) of the article by the customer.

[0016] The weighing device 10 calculates the decrease in weighed weight before and after the customer takes out the item as the purchase weight of the item by the customer. Based on the customer's operation (operation of the operation unit 16 described later), the weighing device 10 transmits information used for issuing labels (also referred to as item labels, product labels, or price labels) (for example, the device identification information of the weighing device 10, the purchase weight) to the display and printing device 40. The device identification information is identification information for identifying each device in the sales processing system 1 (weighing device 10-1, weighing device 10-2, ..., weighing device 20-1, weighing device 20-2, ..., weighing device 30-1, weighing device 30-2, ..., display and printing device 40). The device identification information only needs to be information that can identify each device at least within the sales processing system 1. The device identification information may be an IP address (Internet Protocol address), a MAC address (Media Access Control address), or identification information agreed upon within the sales processing system 1.

[0017] The store clerk places the items to be sold into the item supply device 100. In other words, the store clerk puts the items in from the input section 102A.

[0018] The customer places the desired amount of items stored in the item supply device 100 into a takeaway container (for example, the container 120 shown in Figures 4(a) and 4(b)). Specifically, the customer opens the lid 103 and uses a scoop to place the desired amount of items stored in the storage compartment 101 into the takeaway container. The weighing device 10 calculates the decrease in weighed weight before and after the customer removes the items. Subsequently, the customer closes the lid 103 and operates the weighing device 10 (operating unit 16). As described above, the weighing device 10 transmits information regarding the purchase (weighing) of items (also referred to as item purchase information or item weighing information) to the display and printing device 40 based on the operation of the operating unit 16 (which functions as an input unit for inputting information regarding the purchase of items). The item purchase information (item weighing information) is also used to display item buttons (described later), so it may be called item button display information, or it is also used to print and issue labels, so it may be called label issuance information. Next, the customer moves to the display printing device 40 and operates the display printing device 40 to have it print a label.

[0019] (Second weighing unit 4B) The second weighing unit 4B consists of four weighing devices 20 and four item supply devices 200 (for items to be placed). Each weighing device 20 is fitted with one item supply device 200. In other words, the second weighing unit 4B has four sets of one weighing device 20 and one item supply device 200.

[0020] The article supply device 200 (for the object to be placed) comprises a storage section 201, an input section (not shown), a discharge section 202B, and an article discharge operation section 203. The storage section 201 stores articles (e.g., liquids) and has an input section (not shown) for loading articles to be stored in the storage section 201. The discharge section 202B is a discharge port for discharging articles stored in the storage section 201. The article discharge operation section 203 is operated when discharging articles stored in the storage section 201 from the discharge section 202B.

[0021] The goods supply device 200 is installed such that the weight of the goods supply device 200 and the weight of the goods contained in the goods supply device 200 are measured by the weighing device 20. In other words, the weighing device 20 measures the weight of the goods supply device 200 and the goods contained in the goods supply device 200 while waiting for a customer. That is, the weighing device 20 determines the decrease in measured weight before and after the customer releases the goods as the purchase weight of the goods by that customer. The article release operation unit 203 is configured to continue releasing articles as long as the operation is maintained and to stop releasing articles when the operation is stopped (for example, a push-button). However, the article release operation unit 203 may also be configured to start releasing articles based on a start operation and stop releasing articles based on a stop operation (for example, a lever or a handle).

[0022] The weighing device 20 calculates the decrease in weighed weight before and after the customer releases the item as the purchase weight of the item by the customer. Based on the customer's operation (operation of the operation unit 26 described later), the weighing device 20 transmits the item purchase information (for example, the device identification information of the weighing device 20 and the purchase weight) to the display and printing device 40.

[0023] The store clerk places the items to be sold into the item supply device 200, the specific details of which will be described later.

[0024] The customer places the desired amount of items stored in the item supply device 200 into a takeaway container (for example, the container 220 shown in Figures 6(a) and 6(b)). Specifically, the customer operates the item release operation unit 203 to release the desired amount of items stored in the storage unit 201 from the release unit 202B and place them into the takeaway container. The weighing device 20 calculates the decrease in weighed weight before and after the customer takes out the items. Next, the customer operates the weighing device 20 (operation unit 26). As described above, the weighing device 20 transmits the item purchase information to the display and printing device 40 based on the operation of the operation unit 26 (which functions as an input unit for inputting information about the purchase of items). Next, the customer moves to the display and printing device 40 and operates the display and printing device 40 to issue a label.

[0025] (Third weighing unit 4C) The third weighing unit 4C consists of 10 weighing devices 30 and 10 item supply devices 300. Each weighing device 30 is fitted with one item supply device 300. In other words, the third weighing unit 4C has 10 sets, each consisting of one weighing device 30 and one item supply device 300.

[0026] The article supply device 300 comprises a storage section 301, an input section 302A, a discharge section 302B, and an article discharge operation section 303. The storage section 301 stores articles (individual items). The input section 302A is an input port for inputting articles to be stored in the storage section 301. The discharge section 302B is a discharge port for discharging articles stored in the storage section 301. The article discharge operation section 303 is configured to start discharging articles based on a start operation and stop discharging based on a stop operation (e.g., a handle, a lever). However, the article discharge operation section 303 may also be configured to continue discharging articles while the operation is maintained and stop discharging when the operation is stopped (e.g., a push-button).

[0027] The weighing device 30 collects the items dispensed from the item supply device 300 (discharge unit 302B). The weighing device 30 weighs the collected items. Based on the operation of the item discharge operation unit 36, the weighing device 30 dispenses the items whose weight has been measured. When the weighing device 30 has dispensed all the items whose weight has been measured, it transmits the item purchase information (for example, the device identification information of the weighing device 30 and the purchased weight) to the display and printing device 40.

[0028] The store clerk places the items to be sold into the item supply device 300. In other words, the store clerk puts the items in from the input section 302A.

[0029] The customer moves the desired quantity of items stored in the item supply device 300 to the weighing device 30. Specifically, the customer operates the item release operation unit 303 to release the desired quantity of items stored in the storage unit 301 from the release unit 302B and stores them in the weighing device 30. The weighing device 30 weighs the stored items (the desired quantity of items). Subsequently, the customer moves all the items stored in the weighing device 30 (the items whose weight has been measured) into a takeaway container (for example, the container 320 shown in Figure 9(c)). Specifically, the customer operates the item release operation unit 36 ​​to release all the items from the weighing device 30 into the takeaway container. As described above, the weighing device 30 transmits the item purchase information to the display and printing device 40 based on the fact that all the items have been released into the takeaway container. Next, the customer moves to the display printing device 40 and operates the display printing device 40 to have it print a label.

[0030] Next, the configurations of the weighing devices 10, 20, and 30 that make up the first weighing unit 4A, the second weighing unit 4B, and the third weighing unit 4C will be described. (Measuring device 10) Figure 3(a) is an example of the configuration of the weighing device 10, and Figure 3(b) is a perspective conceptual diagram showing an example of the appearance of the weighing device 10. Figure 4(a) shows the state of the weighing device 10 etc. when goods are being taken out of the goods supply device 100 into the container 120 (state where the weighed weight is not stable), and Figure 4(b) is an explanatory diagram showing the state of the weighing device 10 etc. after goods have been taken out of the goods supply device 100 into the container 120 (state where the weighed weight is stable). The weighing device 10 will be described below with reference to Figures 3(a)(b) and 4(a)(b).

[0031] As shown in Figure 3(a), the weighing device 10 comprises a CPU 11, a ROM 12, a RAM 13, a weighing unit 14, a display unit 15, an operation unit 16, and a communication unit 17. These are connected to each other via a bus.

[0032] The CPU 11 controls the operation of the weighing device 10 by reading and executing a program stored in the ROM 12. For example, the CPU 11 calculates the decrease in weighing weight before and after a customer takes out an item (an item stored in the item supply device 100) as the purchase weight of the item by that customer.

[0033] ROM12 is a read-only memory that stores various information used by the CPU11, such as programs. RAM13 is a read / write memory that stores various information, such as information read from ROM12, information processed (calculated, generated, updated, etc.) by the CPU11, information referenced by the CPU11 in the above processing, information obtained via the communication unit 17, and information obtained by the weighing unit 14. For example, RAM13 stores the base weight for calculating the decrease in weighed weight (the combined weight of the goods supply device 100 and the goods contained in the goods supply device 100 before the start of trading), the warning weight for notifying about replenishing or replacing goods contained in the goods supply device 100, and the unit price of goods (a set of goods contained in the goods supply device 100) obtained via the communication unit 17.

[0034] The weighing unit 14 weighs the weight of an item placed on a platform 14a, which is, for example, a weighing pan. The weighing unit 14 weighs the weight of the item using, for example, a load cell weight detection method. Specifically, as shown in Figures 4(a) and 4(b), the weighing unit 14 weighs the combined weight of the item supply device 100 and the items contained in the item supply device 100.

[0035] The display unit 15 displays the purchase weight, etc., to the customer. The display unit 15 consists of five displays (display 15a, display 15b, display 15c, display 15d, and display 15e). The display unit 15 (displays 15a to 15e) may be, for example, liquid crystal panels.

[0036] Display unit 15a displays the purchase weight. When the goods are being taken out of the goods supply device 100 into the container 120 (when the weighed weight is not stable), display unit 15a may display information indicating that it is being prepared for display (for example, a rectangle with dashed lines as shown in Figure 4(a), dashed line "---", etc.). Display unit 15b displays the unit price of the goods to be purchased (goods contained in the goods supply device 100). Display unit 15c displays the purchase price (purchase price, selling price, selling price) of the goods for the purchased weight. When the goods are being taken out of the goods supply device 100 into the container 120 (when the weighed weight is not stable), display unit 15c may display information indicating that it is being prepared for display, as shown in Figure 4(a). Display unit 15d displays the weighed weight. In other words, display unit 15d displays the combined weight of the goods supply device 100 and the goods contained in the goods supply device 100.

[0037] The display unit 15e displays the status of the weighing device 10. For example, when the device is dispensing goods from the goods supply device 100 into the container 120 (the weighing weight is not yet stable), the display unit 15e displays a mark (icon) as shown in Figure 4(a). Also, when the device has finished dispensing goods from the goods supply device 100 into the container 120 (the weighing weight is stable), the display unit 15e displays a mark as shown in Figure 4(b).

[0038] In the example shown in Figure 4(a), display unit 15a displays information indicating that display is being prepared, display unit 15b displays "500 (yen / 100g)", display unit 15c displays information indicating that display is being prepared, and display unit 15d displays "1100 (g)". In the example shown in Figure 4(b), display unit 15a displays "150 (g)", display unit 15b displays "500 (yen / 100g)", display unit 15c displays "750 (yen)", and display unit 15d displays "1050 (g)".

[0039] The operation unit 16 accepts customer input (it functions as an input unit for inputting information related to the purchase of goods). In this embodiment, the operation unit 16 is one or more hard buttons (push buttons) located on the housing, but it may also be one or more soft buttons (touch buttons) that are displayed in an operable manner. In other words, the display unit 15 may be a touch panel that displays the purchase weight to the customer or accepts customer input. Furthermore, the display unit 15 and the operation unit 16 (input unit) constitute a display input unit positioned facing the customer, as shown in Figures 4(a) and 4(b). The same applies to the display unit 25 and operation unit 26 of the weighing device 20, which will be described later.

[0040] The communication unit 17 transmits and receives information with other devices. For example, the communication unit 17 transmits item purchase information to the display and printing device 40 based on the operation of the operation unit 16.

[0041] Although not shown in the diagram, the weighing device 10 may be equipped with a hard disk. The hard disk may store various information in place of or in addition to the RAM 13. The same applies to the weighing devices 20, 30, and 40. Furthermore, the weighing device 10 may be equipped with an SSD (Solid State Drive) instead of a hard disk. The same applies to the weighing devices 20, 30, and 40.

[0042] Furthermore, the weighing device 10 may be equipped with a timing unit (timing function). For example, the weighing device 10 may be able to manage the current time, the remaining time until a certain time, or the elapsed time since a certain state was reached, using the timing unit. The same applies to the weighing device 20 and the display printing device 40. Furthermore, the weighing device 10 may be equipped with an audio output unit. For example, the weighing device 10 may output audio appropriate to the situation (for example, an error audio). The same applies to the weighing device 20, the weighing device 30, and the display printing device 40. Furthermore, the weighing device 10 may be equipped with a human presence sensor. For example, the weighing device 10 may use the human presence sensor to determine whether or not there is a person in the vicinity (for example, in front of the weighing device 10). The same applies to the weighing device 20, the weighing device 30, and the display printing device 40.

[0043] (Measuring device 20) Figure 5(a) is a perspective conceptual diagram showing an example of the appearance of the weighing device 20, and Figure 5(b) is a side conceptual diagram showing an example of the appearance of the weighing device 20. Figure 6(a) shows the weighing device 20 and other components in the state when dispensing goods from the goods supply device 200 into the container 220. Figure 6(b) shows the weighing device 20 and other components in the state after dispensing all the goods from the goods supply device 200 into the container 220. The weighing device 20 will be described below with reference to Figures 5(a)(b) and 6(a)(b). Note that in Figures 5(a) and 6(a)(b), the lower part of the right-hand support column 50 is shown without the side plate member 610 (see Figure 11).

[0044] Although the configuration diagram is omitted, the weighing device 20, like the weighing device 10 (see Figure 3(a)), includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, weighing unit, display unit, operation unit, and communication unit. Hereinafter, the CPU, ROM, RAM, weighing unit, display unit, operation unit, and communication unit of the weighing device 20 will be referred to as CPU21, ROM22, RAM23, weighing unit24, display unit25, operation unit26, and communication unit27, respectively. The CPU21, ROM22, RAM23, weighing unit24, display unit25, operation unit26, and communication unit27 are connected to each other via a bus.

[0045] The CPU 21, like the CPU 11 of the weighing device 10, calculates, for example, the decrease in weighed weight before and after the release of goods (goods stored in the goods supply device 200) by the customer as the purchase weight of the goods by that customer.

[0046] ROM22, like ROM12 of the weighing device 10, stores various information used by the CPU21, such as programs. RAM23, like RAM13 of the weighing device 10, stores, for example, the reference weight for calculating the decrease in weighed weight (the combined weight of the goods supply device 200 and the goods contained in the goods supply device 200 before the start of trading), the warning weight for notifying about replenishing or replacing the goods contained in the goods supply device 200, and the unit price of goods (a set of goods contained in the goods supply device 200) obtained via the communication unit 27.

[0047] The weighing unit 24 has a platform 24a and a base 24b, and weighs the weight of an item placed on the platform 24a. A weight detection mechanism is arranged inside the base 24b, and weighs the weight of the item using, for example, a load cell weight detection method. Specifically, as shown in Figures 6(a) and 6(b), the weighing unit 24 weighs the combined weight of the item supply device 200 and the items contained in the item supply device 200. Furthermore, the lower part of the support column 50 is connected to the front part of the base 24b via a rotating part 60 (see Figure 7).

[0048] Furthermore, a pair of guard members 24c are provided on the left and right sides of the base 24b of the weighing unit 24, as shown in Figures 5(a) and 5(b). Each guard member 24c has a mounting portion attached to the side of the base 24b and a side portion extending upward from the left and right edges of the mounting portion (Figure 5(a) shows the side portion extending upward from the right edge). This side portion prevents the platform 24a of the weighing unit 24 from coming into direct contact with, for example, an adjacent weighing device 20 (see Figure 2) or other adjacent objects (such as the storage section 201 of the article supply device 200, containers 220, etc.), allowing the weighing unit to perform accurate weighing. Furthermore, the mounting portion of the guard member 24c is configured to be extendable or retractable in the left-right direction relative to the base 24b, or to allow adjustment of its mounting position in the left-right direction (the distance between the side portions of the pair of guard members 24c is adjustable), allowing the position of the side portions of the guard member 24c to be adjusted according to the adjacent weighing device 200 or other adjacent objects.

[0049] The configuration of the display unit 25 (display units 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, and 25e) is the same as that of the display unit 15 (display units 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d, and 15e) of the weighing device 10. The display unit 25 displays the same information as the display unit 15 shown in Figures 4(a) and 4(b) when the goods are being dispensed from the goods supply device 200 into the container 220 (when the weighing weight is not yet stable) as shown in Figure 6(a), and when the goods have finished being dispensed from the goods supply device 200 into the container 220 (when the weighing weight is stable) as shown in Figure 6(b).

[0050] The operation unit 26, like the operation unit 16 of the weighing device 10, accepts customer input (it functions as an input unit for inputting information related to the purchase of goods). Furthermore, the display unit 25 and the operation unit 26 (input unit) together constitute a display input unit positioned facing the customer, as shown in Figures 6(a) and 6(b).

[0051] The communication unit 27, like the communication unit 17 of the weighing device 10, transmits and receives information with other devices. For example, the communication unit 27 transmits item purchase information to the display and printing device 40 based on the operation of the operation unit 26.

[0052] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 7, the display input unit, which includes the display unit 25 and the operation unit 26, is provided on the upper part of the support column 50, and the lower part of the support column 50 is rotatably connected to the front part of the base 24b of the weighing unit 24 via a rotating part 60. The connection structure will be described later.

[0053] (Measuring device 30) Figure 8 is a perspective conceptual diagram showing an example of the appearance of the weighing device 30. Figure 9(a) shows the weighing device 30 in the state when goods are being dispensed from the goods supply device 300 (when the weighed weight is not yet stable), Figure 9(b) shows the weighing device 30 in the state when all goods have been dispensed from the goods supply device 300 (when the weighed weight is stable), and Figure 9(c) shows the weighing device 30 in the state when goods are being dispensed from the weighing device 30 into the container 320 (when the weighed weight is not yet stable). The weighing device 30 will be described below with reference to Figures 8 and 9(a) to 9(c).

[0054] Although the configuration diagram is omitted, the weighing device 30, like the weighing device 10 (see Figure 3(a)), includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, weighing unit, display unit, and communication unit. Hereinafter, the CPU, ROM, RAM, weighing unit, display unit, and communication unit of the weighing device 30 will be referred to as CPU31, ROM32, RAM33, weighing unit34, display unit35, and communication unit37, respectively. The CPU31, ROM32, RAM33, weighing unit34, display unit35, and communication unit37 are connected to each other via a bus. The weighing device 30 also includes a timing unit (timing function). Furthermore, the weighing device 30 includes an item dispensing operation unit 36, a guide body 38, a cover (not shown), etc.

[0055] The CPU 31 controls the operation of the weighing device 30 by reading and executing a program stored in the ROM 32. For example, the CPU 31 calculates the weighed weight of the goods supplied from the goods supply device 300 as the purchase weight of the goods by the customer.

[0056] ROM32 is a read-only memory that stores various information used by the CPU31, such as programs. RAM33 is a read-write memory that stores various information, such as information read from ROM32, information processed (calculated, generated, updated, etc.) by the CPU31, information referenced by the CPU31 in the above processing, information obtained via the communication unit37, and information obtained by the weighing unit34. For example, RAM33 stores a judgment weight (sometimes called a judgment weight) for determining whether to increase or decrease the weighing weight (i.e., whether to release items from the item supply device300 to the weighing device30 or from the weighing device30 to the container320), and the unit price of items (items contained in the set of item supply devices300) obtained via the communication unit37.

[0057] The weighing unit 34 weighs the weight of the item guided (stored) in the guide body 38. The weighing unit 34 weighs the weight of the item, for example, using a weight detection method with a load cell.

[0058] The display unit 35 displays the purchase weight, etc., to the customer. The display unit 35 consists of four displays (display 35a, display 35b, display 35c, and display 35e). The display unit 35 (display 35a to 35c, and display 35e) may be, for example, a liquid crystal panel.

[0059] Display unit 35a displays the purchase weight (weighed weight). When the weighing device 30 is discharging goods into the container 320 (when the weighed weight is not stable), display unit 35a may display information indicating that it is being prepared for display, as shown in Figure 9(c). Display unit 35b displays the unit price of the goods to be purchased (goods contained in the goods supply device 300). Display unit 35c displays the purchase price of the goods for the purchased weight. When the goods supply device 300 is discharging goods into the weighing device 30 (when the weighed weight is not stable), display unit 35c may display information indicating that it is being prepared for display, as shown in Figure 9(a).

[0060] The display unit 35e displays the status of the weighing device 10. For example, when the display unit 35e is discharging goods from the goods supply device 300 to the weighing device 30 (the weighing weight is not stable), it displays a mark as shown in Figure 9(a). Also, when the display unit 35e has finished discharging goods from the goods supply device 300 to the weighing device 30 (the weighing weight is stable), it displays a mark as shown in Figure 9(b). Also, when the display unit 35e is discharging goods from the weighing device 30 to the container 320 (the weighing weight is not stable), it displays a mark as shown in Figure 9(c).

[0061] In the example shown in Figure 9(a), display unit 35a displays "50(g)", display unit 35b displays "400(yen / 100g)", and display unit 25c displays information indicating that display is being prepared. In the example shown in Figure 9(b), display unit 35a displays "300(g)", display unit 35b displays "400(yen / 100g)", and display unit 35c displays "1200(yen)". In the example shown in Figure 9(c), display unit 35a displays information indicating that display is being prepared, display unit 35b displays "400(yen / 100g)", and display unit 35c displays "1200(yen)". Yes, they are.

[0062] The communication unit 37 transmits and receives information with other devices. For example, when all the weighed items have been released, the communication unit 37 transmits the item purchase information to the display and printing device 40.

[0063] Next, the structure of the rotating part 60 of the weighing device 20 will be described. (Rotating part 60 of the weighing device 20) As described above, in the weighing device 20 that constitutes the second weighing unit 4B, the display input unit, which includes a display unit 25 and an operation unit 26, is provided on the upper part of the support column 50, and the lower part of the support column 50 is rotatably connected to the front part of the base 24b of the weighing unit 24 via a rotating part 60. The following explanation will be given with reference to Figures 7 and 10 to 12. In this specification, the terms "front-back direction," "left-right direction," "up-down direction," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "up," and "down" for each component of the weighing device 20 are as shown in Figure 5(a).

[0064] Figure 7 is a conceptual side view showing that the support column 50 is rotatably connected to the weighing section 24 of the weighing device 20 between an upright position and a fallen position. (Rotating part 60) As shown in Figure 7, the lower part of the support column 50 is rotatably connected to the front part of the base 24b of the weighing unit 24 via a rotating part 60. This rotating part 60 has a mounting member 600 (see Figure 10) attached to the base 24b side of the weighing device 20, a side plate member 610 (see Figures 11(a) and 11(b)) attached to the support column 50, and a locking part 620 (see Figures 11(b) and 11(c)) pivotally supported on the side plate member 610.

[0065] Figure 10 shows an example of the structure of a mounting member 600 that constitutes the rotating part 60 of the weighing device 20. Figure 10(a) is a perspective conceptual view of the mounting member 600 seen from above, and Figure 10(b) is a perspective conceptual view of the mounting member 600 seen from below. (Mounting component 600) As shown in Figures 10(a) and 10(b), the mounting member 600 has a horizontal surface portion 601 that forms a mounting portion with the base 24b side of the measuring unit 24, and a guide surface portion 602 extending downward is formed on the front side of the horizontal surface portion 601. As shown in Figures 6(a) and 10(b), this guide surface portion 602 constitutes a guide portion that guides the container 220 that receives an article (for example, a liquid) to the article receiving position. Furthermore, this guide surface portion 602 (guide portion) is formed in a concave shape that tapers toward the front of the base 24b, and the container 220 guided to this concave article receiving position is positioned so as not to come into contact with the platform 24a of the weighing unit 24.

[0066] Therefore, the container 220 is reliably guided and positioned at the article receiving position by the guide surface portion 602 (guide portion). Thus, the container 220, positioned in this manner, can reliably contain the article (e.g., liquid) discharged from the discharge portion 202B of the article supply device 200. Furthermore, since the container 220 is positioned so as not to come into contact with the platform 24a of the weighing unit 24, it is possible to prevent, for example, weighing from being performed with the container 220 in contact with the platform 24a (resulting in inaccurate weighing), and thus enable accurate weighing by the weighing unit 24.

[0067] In the above embodiment, the guide surface portion 602 (guide portion) is formed in a concave shape that tapers toward the front of the base 24b, thereby guiding the container 220 to the article receiving position and positioning the container 220, once guided to the article receiving position, so as not to come into contact with the platform 24a of the weighing unit 24. However, the shape of the guide surface portion (guide portion) is not limited to such a tapered concave shape. For example, it can be configured such that the container 220, at least when located at the article receiving position, does not come into contact with the platform 24a of the weighing unit 24. Even with such a configuration, the container 220 is prevented from coming into contact with the platform 24a by the guide surface portion (guide portion), so that the weighing process by the weighing unit 24 can be performed accurately.

[0068] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the guide surface portion 602 is formed on the front side of the horizontal surface portion 601 of the mounting member 600, but the guide surface portion 602 can also be configured to be provided on the support column 50. In that case, the guide surface portion 602 is attached between the left and right support columns 50 at a height position that can guide and position the container 220 (see Figure 6).

[0069] A rear surface portion 603 extending upward is formed at the rear end of the horizontal surface portion 601. The mounting member 600 is attached with this rear surface portion 603 in contact with the front part of the base 24b of the weighing unit 24, so that the mounting member 600 can be stably attached to the base 24b.

[0070] First side portions 604 extending upward are formed at the left and right ends of the horizontal portion 601, and a first bearing portion 605 having a first shaft hole 605a is formed on the front side of the first side portion 604. This first bearing portion 605 pivotally supports the side plate member 610 (see Figures 11(a) and 11(b)), which will be described later. A locking piece 606 (locking portion) is formed on the upper side of the first side portion 604, extending towards the center in the left-right direction. This locking piece 606 engages with the engaging portion 623 (engaging portion 623a: engaging member) of the locking portion 620 (see Figure 11(c)), which will be described later, and constitutes a holding mechanism that maintains the support column 50 in an upright position relative to the weighing section 24.

[0071] A second side portion 607 is formed extending downward from the end of the locking piece 606 (locking portion) that faces the center in the left-right direction. The lower end of the second side portion 607 abuts against and is supported by the horizontal surface portion 601, thereby stabilizing the locking piece 606 in a predetermined position.

[0072] Furthermore, a second bearing portion 608 is formed on the horizontal surface portion 601, extending downward so as to face the first bearing portion 605. This second bearing portion has a second shaft hole 608a, which, along with the first shaft hole 605a provided in the first bearing portion 605, supports the side plate member 610 (see Figures 11(a) and 11(b)), which will be described later.

[0073] The mounting member 600, which has a horizontal surface portion 601, a guide surface portion 602, a rear surface portion 603, a first side surface portion 604, a first bearing portion 605, a locking piece 606, a second side surface portion 607, and a second bearing portion 608, can be formed, for example, by press-forming a plate made of a metal such as iron or stainless steel. Alternatively, each of the above-mentioned portions can be constructed as a separate part, and these portions can be integrally joined (connected) to form the mounting member 600. Furthermore, the mounting member 600 can be formed by integrally molding it from metals such as iron and stainless steel, as well as synthetic resins such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyacetal (POM), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene resin (ABS), and polycarbonate (PC).

[0074] In the above embodiment, the weighing device 20 is configured to have a guide surface portion 602 (guide portion). However, instead of providing the guide surface portion 602 (guide portion) on the weighing device 20, the guide portion can also be provided on the shelf 3 itself (the shelf on which the weighing device 20 is placed), as shown in Figure 2. In that case, for example, the weighing device 20 is placed on the shelf of shelf 3, and the guide portion is fixed to the front position of the weighing device 20 on the shelf using any fixing means (adhesion, screws, etc.). Even when the guide section is provided on the shelf 3 itself (the shelf on which the weighing device 20 is placed), the container 220 is reliably guided and positioned at the receiving position for the articles by the guide section. Therefore, the container 220, positioned in this manner, can reliably contain the articles (e.g., liquids) discharged from the discharge section 202B of the article supply device 200. Furthermore, since the container 220 is positioned so as not to come into contact with the platform 24a of the weighing unit 24, it is possible to prevent, for example, weighing from being performed with the container 220 in contact with the platform 24a (resulting in inaccurate weighing), and thus enable accurate weighing by the weighing unit 24. Furthermore, the shape of the guide portion is not limited to being formed as a tapered concave shape. For example, it can be configured such that the container 220 located at the item receiving position does not come into contact with the platform 24a of the weighing unit 220. Even with such a configuration, the container 220 is prevented from coming into contact with the platform 24a by the guide portion, so that the weighing process by the weighing unit 24 can be performed accurately.

[0075] Figures 11(a) and 11(b) are perspective conceptual diagrams showing an example of the arrangement structure (main part) of the mounting member 600, side plate member 610, and locking part 620 that constitute the rotating part 60 of the weighing device 20, and Figure 11(c) is a perspective conceptual diagram showing an example of the structure of the locking part 620.

[0076] (Side panel member 610) As shown in Figure 11(a), the side plate members 610 are provided on the left and right edges of the lower part of the support column 50. The upper part of the side plate member 610 is configured as a third bearing portion 611, and the lower part is configured as a fourth bearing portion 612. The third bearing portion 611 is provided with a third shaft hole 611a, and constitutes a bearing portion that pivotally supports the locking portion 620 (see Figure 11(c)). Although the side plate member 610 is not shown on the left support column 50 in Figure 11(a), the side plate member 610 is provided on the left support column 50 in the same way as on the right support column 50.

[0077] As will be described later, this third bearing portion 611 also functions as a restricting member that prevents the operation of the operating member 621 (operating part) of the locking portion 620 (see Figure 11(c)) from the left and right directions. Specifically, the third bearing portion 611 of the side plate member 610 is formed in a shape (size) that covers the operating member 621 of the locking portion 620 from the left and right directions. Therefore, this side plate member 610 (third bearing portion 611) prevents operation of the operating member 621 in the locking portion 620 from the left or right direction (operation by fingers, etc.), thereby preventing the support column 50 from falling over due to unintentional operation.

[0078] The fourth bearing portion 612 is provided with a fourth shaft hole 612a. By inserting a shaft (not shown) through the fourth shaft hole 612a, the first shaft hole 605a provided in the first bearing portion 605 of the mounting member 600 (see Figures 10(a) and 10(b)), and the second shaft hole 608a provided in the second bearing portion 608 of the mounting member 600, the lower part of the support column 50 is rotatably supported on the mounting member 600 attached to the front part of the base 24b.

[0079] (Locking part 620) As shown in Figure 11(c), the locking portion 620 has an operating member 621 (operating part), a connecting part 622, an engaging part 623, and a fifth bearing part 624, and can be formed, for example, by press-forming a plate made of a metal such as iron or stainless steel. Alternatively, each of the above parts can be constructed as a separate part and then integrally joined (connected) together to form the locking portion 620. Furthermore, the locking portion 620 can be formed by integral molding from metals such as iron and stainless steel, as well as synthetic resins such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyacetal (POM), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene resin (ABS), and polycarbonate (PC).

[0080] A fifth bearing hole 624a is formed in the fifth bearing portion 624 of the locking portion 620, and it is rotatably supported by a shaft (not shown) on the third bearing portion 611 of the side plate member 610 provided on the support column 50, and is biased in the locking direction (the direction in which the locking piece 606 is locked) by a biasing member (not shown), such as a spring.

[0081] Furthermore, the end of the engaging portion 623 in the locking portion 620 forms an engaging portion 623a (engaging member) that engages with the locking piece 606 provided on the mounting member 600. By engaging this engaging portion 623a (engaging member) with the locking piece 606 of the mounting member 600, the support column 50 can stably maintain an upright position relative to the weighing unit 24.

[0082] The operating member 621 (operating part) of the locking part 620 can be easily operated by the fingers of a store employee. By operating the operating member 621 (operating part) (rotating it clockwise in Figure 12(b)), the engaging portion 623a (engaging member) of the engaging part 623 can be moved from the locking position that engages the locked piece 606 (engaged member) of the mounting member 600 to a retracted position that is separated from the locked piece 606 of the mounting member 600, thereby releasing the lock.

[0083] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5(b), the operating member 621 (operating part) is positioned so as to be covered from the left and right by the third bearing portion 611 of the side plate member 610. Therefore, the third bearing portion 611 also functions as a restricting member that prevents operation of the operating member 621 (operating part) from the left and right directions, thereby preventing operation from the left and right by fingers or the like, and preventing the support column 50 from falling over due to unintentional operation.

[0084] Furthermore, the regulating member described above only needs to be placed on at least one of the left and right support columns 50. For example, if the regulating member is placed on only one of the support columns 50, the other third bearing portion 611 only needs to be formed to a size that functions as a bearing portion, and it does not need to be shaped (sized) in a way that covers it from the left and right directions, as is the case with the other third bearing portion 611.

[0085] Next, an example of the operation of the holding mechanism of the rotating part 60 will be explained using Figures 7 and 12(a), 12(b), and 12(c). Figures 12(a), 12(b), and 12(c) are side conceptual diagrams (main parts) showing an example of the operation of the holding mechanism (main part) of the rotating part 60. For the sake of clarity, Figures 12(a), (b), and (c) do not show the side plate members 610 that pivotally support the locking portion 620.

[0086] As shown in Figure 7, the lower part of the support column 50 is rotatably connected to the front part of the base 24b via a pivot part 60, and the support column 50 is configured to be rotatable between an upright position (solid line in Figure 7) and a fallen position (dotted line in Figure 7) relative to the weighing section 24 of the weighing device 20.

[0087] As shown in Figure 12(a), in the upright position of the support column 50, the engaging portion 623a (engaging member) of the engaging portion 623 of the locking portion 620 is locked to the locking piece 606 of the mounting member 600 (locking position), and the support column 50 is held upright with respect to the base 24b of the weighing unit 24. The locking portion 620 is biased in the locking direction (the direction in which the locking piece 606 is locked) using a biasing member (not shown), such as a spring.

[0088] When positioning the support column 50 in a tilted position relative to the weighing unit 24, as shown in Figure 12(b), the operating member 621 (operating part) of the locking part 620 is operated with fingers or the like (rotated clockwise around the fifth shaft hole 624a) to move the engaging portion 623a (engaging member) of the engaging part 623 away from the locked piece 606 (engaged member) to a retracted position, thereby releasing the lock.

[0089] Subsequently, as shown in Figure 12(c), the support column 50 can be rotated clockwise around the first shaft hole 605a to position it in the fallen position. Furthermore, to move the support column 50, which is currently in a tilted position relative to the weighing unit 24, to an upright position, the operating member 621 (operating part) of the locking part 620 is operated (rotated clockwise around the fifth shaft hole 624a), and the support column 50 is rotated to the upright position. At the same time, the fingers or other body parts are moved away from the operating member 621 (operating part) while the support column 50 is upright. The locking part 620 is biased in the locking direction (the direction in which the locked piece 606 is locked) by a biasing member (not shown), such as a spring, so the engaging portion 623a (engaging member) of the engaging part 623 is locked to the locked piece 606 on the mounting member 600.

[0090] In this way, when the support column 50 is in its upright position, the engaging portion 623a (engaging member) of the engaging portion 623 of the locking portion 620 is locked to the locked piece 606 of the mounting member 600, thereby enabling the support column 50 to be stably and reliably held upright relative to the base 24b of the weighing unit 24.

[0091] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the holding mechanism for the rotating part 60 involved the engaging portion 623a (engaging member) of the engaging portion 623 of the locking portion 620 engaging with the locked piece 606 (locked portion) of the mounting member 600, thereby holding the support column 50 in an upright position. However, instead of this holding mechanism, a holding mechanism 700, such as the one shown in Figure 13, can also be used.

[0092] (Configuration of the holding mechanism 700) Figure 13 is a schematic plan view showing another example of a holding mechanism. Figure 13(a) shows the unlocked state where the locking portion 710 and the locked portion 720 are not engaged, and Figure 13(b) shows the locked state where the locking portion 710 and the locked portion 720 are engaged.

[0093] The holding mechanism 700 has a locking portion 710 and a locked portion 720. The locking portion 710 is attached to either the support column 50 or the base 24b of the weighing unit 24, and the locked portion 720 is attached to the other of the support column 50 or the base 24b of the weighing unit 24. Below, an example in which the locking portion 710 is attached to the support column 50 and the locked portion 720 is attached to the base 24b of the weighing unit 24 will be described. The locking portion 710 can be attached directly to the support column 50, or it can be attached via other components. The locked portion 720 can be attached directly to the base 24b of the weighing unit 24, or it can be attached via other components. For example, the locked portion 720 can be attached to the horizontal surface 601 of the mounting member 600 (see Figure 10; however, it is composed excluding the locked piece 606 and the second side portion 607) attached to the base 24b.

[0094] (Locking part 710) The locking portion 710 has a mounting portion 711 that is attached to the lower part of the support column 50 and an insertion portion 712 that is inserted into the groove 721C of the locking portion 720, and the end of the insertion portion 712 is connected to the mounting portion 711. The insertion portion 712 has a connecting portion 712A, a neck portion 712B, and a head portion 712C. When the insertion portion 712 is inserted into the groove 721C of the locking portion 720, the neck portion 712B of the insertion portion 712 is locked into the contact portion 722a of the locking portion 720.

[0095] (locked part 720) The locking portion 720 comprises a housing 721 attached to the base 24b side of the weighing portion 24, an operating member 722 disposed within the housing 721, and a biasing member, such as a spring 723, that biases the operating member 722. The operating member 722 is disposed to be retractable into and out of a groove 721C in the housing 721.

[0096] The housing 721 has a first support portion 721A that supports the shaft portion 722b of the operating member 722, and a second support portion 721B that supports the contact portion 722a of the operating member 722. In addition, a groove 721C is formed in the central part of the housing 721 to receive the insertion portion 712 of the locking portion 710.

[0097] The operating member 722 has a contact portion 722a, a shaft portion 722b, and a tail portion 722c. The contact portion 722a is formed to engage with the neck portion 712B of the locking portion 710. A spring 723, which is a biasing member, is disposed on the outer circumference of the shaft portion 722b. This spring 723 has one end on the contact portion 722a and the other end on a first support portion 721A formed in the housing 721, holding the operating member 722 in a normal position protruding into the groove 721C. Furthermore, the tail portion 722c, which is continuous with the shaft portion 722b, is located on the opposite side from the side where the spring 723 is located in the first support portion 721A, preventing the operating member 722 from coming off towards the groove 721C side of the housing 721.

[0098] In this manner, using the holding mechanism 700, when the support column 50 is in the upright position, the insertion portion 712 (protrusion) of the locking portion 710 is inserted into the groove 721C (recess) of the locked portion 720 and locked (locked by the operating member 722), thereby stably and reliably holding the support column 50 upright relative to the base 24b of the weighing unit 24.

[0099] Furthermore, the holding mechanism 700 is configured such that when the insertion portion 712 (protrusion) of the locking portion 710 is inserted into the groove 721C (recess) of the locked portion 720, it is locked by the operating member 722, but the locking can also be performed by magnetic force. In that case, for example, the insertion portion 712 (protrusion) of the locking portion 710 is made of a magnetic material, the operating member 722 which is located inside the housing 721 is removed, and a magnet such as a neodymium magnet is placed in the space between the first support portion 721A and the second support portion 721B of the housing 721, so that when the insertion portion 712 (protrusion) of the locking portion 710 is inserted into the groove 721C (recess) of the locked portion 720, it is magnetically locked by the magnet such as a neodymium magnet.

[0100] Even with such a holding mechanism, when the support column 50 is in the upright position, the insertion portion 712 (protrusion) of the locking portion 710 is inserted into the groove 721C (recess) of the locked portion 720 and locked (magnetically locked), thereby stably and reliably holding the support column 50 upright relative to the base 24b of the weighing unit 24.

[0101] Furthermore, although the rotating part 60 in the above embodiment was constructed using a mounting member 600 attached to the weighing unit 24 (base 24b), the rotating part can also be constructed without using such a mounting member 600. For example, the lower part of the support column 50 can be pivotally supported (either directly or via another member) on the left-right front side of the base 24b of the weighing unit 24, and the base 24b and the support column 50 can be provided with a holding mechanism similar to the holding mechanism described above, in which the engaging portion 623a (engaging member) of the engaging portion 623 engages with the locked piece 606 (locked portion), thereby configuring the support column 50 to be held in an upright position relative to the base 24b of the weighing unit 24. In that case, an operating member (such as a push button or lever) may be provided on the base 24b of the weighing unit 24, and by operating the operating member, the engaging portion 632a may be separated from the locking piece 606, allowing the support column to be lowered. Furthermore, even when the lower part of the support column 50 is pivotally supported on the left-right front side of the base 24b of the weighing unit 24, the guide section can be separately provided on the base 24b of the weighing unit 24 or on the support column 50.

[0102] Next, in sales unit 2 (see Figure 2), the procedures for replenishing or replacing items stored in the item supply device 200 (items to be placed) of the second weighing unit 4B will be explained using Figures 12(a), (b), and (c).

[0103] In the second weighing unit 4B, if it becomes necessary to replenish or replace items stored in the item supply device 200, the store clerk operates the operating member 621 (operating part) of the locking part 620 with their fingers or the like from the front side of the item supply device 200 that needs to be replenished or replaced (Figure 12(a)(b)), and rotates the support column 50 to a fallen position relative to the weighing unit 24 with the locking part 620 released (Figure 12(c)).

[0104] Subsequently, the store clerk removes the item supply device 200, which is placed on the platform 24a of the weighing device 20, from the platform 24a forward. Since the support column 50 is positioned in a tilted position relative to the weighing unit 24, the item supply device 200 can be easily removed. Furthermore, the goods supply device 200, which has been removed from the weighing device 20, is either replenished with goods or the goods are replaced.

[0105] The store clerk places the item supply device 200, which has been replenished or replaced with new items, onto the platform 24a from the front side of the weighing device 20. After the item supply device 200 is placed on the platform 24a of the weighing device 20, the store clerk rotates the support column 50, which is in the fallen position, to the upright position, and operates the operating member 621 (operating part) of the locking part 620 with their fingers (Figure 12(b)) to position the support column 50 in the upright position. After that, the clerk releases their fingers from the operating member 621 (operating part) to complete the work. Furthermore, since the locking portion 620 is biased in the locking direction (the direction in which the locking piece 606 is locked) by a biasing member (not shown), such as a spring, the engaging portion 623a (engaging member) of the engaging portion 623 will lock onto the locking piece 606 on the mounting member 600.

[0106] As shown in Figure 2, the first to third weighing units 4A, 4B, and 4C are densely arranged on shelf 3 to improve the efficiency of selling goods. In particular, the third weighing unit 4C is positioned close to the second weighing unit 4B, making it difficult to replenish goods (e.g., liquids) in the goods supply device 200 or to replace goods. However, since the lower part of the support column 50 of the weighing device 20 of the present invention is rotatably connected to the front part of the base 24b of the weighing unit 24 via a rotating part 60, the store clerk can rotate the support column 50 from the upright position to the lowered position, thereby allowing the display input unit to move between a first position facing the front of the item supply device 200 (item to be placed) placed on the platform 24a and a second position spaced away from the front of the item supply device 200 and not facing the front of the item supply device 200. As a result, the item supply device 200 placed on the weighing device 20 can be easily removed, and the replenishment and replacement of items can be carried out smoothly.

[0107] Furthermore, when a customer purchases goods from the second weighing unit 4B, the display input section (operation section 26) of the weighing device 20 is operated by the customer, and the rotating section 60 of the weighing device 20 is equipped with a holding mechanism. Therefore, since the support column 50 on which the display input unit is provided is stably maintained in an upright position relative to the weighing unit 24, the operation of the operation unit 26 (input unit) of the display input unit can be performed stably.

[0108] Furthermore, even if an unintentional external force is applied to the support column 50 of the weighing device 20 by, for example, a customer's fingers, the support column 50 is stably maintained in its position by the holding mechanism of the rotating part 60, thus preventing the support column 50 from falling over due to such an external force.

[0109] In the above-described embodiment, the lower part of the support column 50 is rotatably connected to the front part of the base 24b via a rotating part 60, thereby enabling the display input unit (display unit 25, operation unit 26) to move between a first position facing the front of the article supply device 200 (item to be placed) placed on the platform 24a and a second position spaced away from the front of the article and not facing the front of the article. However, the weighing device of the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. The display input unit can also be moved between the first and second positions by other embodiments as shown below.

[0110] (Other Embodiment 1) Figure 14 shows a conceptual front view of a weighing device 20A according to another embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 14(a) shows a state in which the display input unit (display unit 25A, operation unit 26A) is located in a first position facing the front of the article supply device 200 (object to be placed), and Figure 14(b) shows a state in which the display input unit has moved to a second position, separated from the front of the article supply device 200 (object to be placed) and not facing the front of the article supply device 200 (object to be placed). The following explains its structure.

[0111] As shown in Figures 14(a) and 14(b), the display input section (display section 25A, operation section 26A) of the weighing device 20A is cantilevered to the upper part of the support column 50A. In addition, the outer rail 51A1, which constitutes the slide rail 51A, is cantilevered to the lower part of the support column 50A. Therefore, the display input section, the support column 50A, and the outer rail 51A1 are configured to form a U-shape when viewed from the front.

[0112] The weighing section 24A of the weighing device 20A has a platform 24Aa and a base 24Ab, and an inner rail 51A2, which constitutes a slide rail 51A, is attached to the front part of the base 24Ab. An outer rail 51A1, which is attached to the lower part of the support column 50A, is slidably supported on this inner rail 51A2.

[0113] According to this weighing device 20A, when removing the item supply device 200 placed on the platform 24Aa from the front of the weighing device 20A, the outer rail 51A1 attached to the lower part of the support column 50A is slid in the direction of the arrow shown in Figure 14(a) relative to the inner rail 51A2 provided on the front part of the base 24Ab, and the display input unit (display unit 25A, operation unit 26A) is moved from the first position shown in Figure 14(a) to the second position shown in Figure 14(b). The store clerk can easily remove the item supply device 200, which is placed on the platform 24Aa of the weighing device 20A, from the platform 24Aa forward.

[0114] In addition, in the above-described embodiment 1, various types of slide rails can be used for the slide rail 51A. For example, a locking mechanism (locking mechanism) can be provided to restrict the sliding movement of the outer rail 51A1 relative to the inner rail 51A2 when the display input unit (display unit 25A, operation unit 26A) is in the first position (Figure 14(a)). In this case, the display input unit is stably held in the first position, so that the display input unit (operation unit 26A) can be operated stably.

[0115] (Another Embodiment 2) Figure 15 shows a conceptual front view of a weighing device 20B of another embodiment 2 according to the present invention. Figure 15(a) shows a state in which the display input unit (display unit 25B, operation unit 26B) is located in a first position facing the front of the article supply device 200 (object to be placed), and Figure 15(b) shows a state in which the display input unit has moved to a second position, separated from the front of the article supply device 200 (object to be placed) and not facing the front of the article supply device 200 (object to be placed). The following explains its structure.

[0116] As shown in Figures 15(a) and 15(b), the display input section (display section 25B, operation section 26B) of the weighing device 20B is cantilevered and mounted on the upper part of the support column 50B. Furthermore, the weighing section 24B of the weighing device 20B has a platform 24Ba and a base 24Bb, and the lower part of the support column 50B is provided at the front of the base 24Bb. In this case, if the lower part of the support column 50B is fixedly attached to the base 24Bb, the display input unit is provided on the upper part of the support column 50B so as to be rotatable around a vertical axis, and if the lower part of the support column 50B is provided to the base 24Bb so as to be rotatable around a vertical axis, the display input unit is provided on the upper part of the support column 50B so as to be fixed.

[0117] According to this weighing device 20B, when removing the item supply device 200 placed on the platform 24Ba from the front of the weighing device 20B, the display input unit can be rotated around the vertical axis (in the direction of the arrow shown in Figure 15(a)) relative to the support column 50B, or the support column 50B can be rotated around the vertical axis (in the direction of the arrow shown in Figure 15(a)) relative to the base 24Bb, thereby moving the display input unit from the first position shown in Figure 15(a) to the second position shown in Figure 15(b). The store clerk can easily remove the item supply device 200, which is placed on the platform 24Ba of the weighing device 20B, from the platform 24Ba by moving it forward.

[0118] In addition, in the above-described embodiment 2, if the lower part of the support column 50B is fixedly attached to the base 24Bb and the display input unit is rotatably mounted on the upper part of the support column 50B around a vertical axis, a locking mechanism (locking mechanism) can be provided to restrict the rotation of the display input unit relative to the support column 50B when the display input unit is in the first position (Figure 15(a)). Furthermore, if the lower part of the support column 50B is rotatable around a vertical axis relative to the base 24Bb, and the display input unit is fixedly mounted on the upper part of the support column 50B, a locking mechanism (locking mechanism) can be provided to restrict the rotation of the support column 50B relative to the base 24Bb. In this case, the display input unit is stably maintained in the first position, so that the display input unit (operation unit 26B) can be operated stably.

[0119] (Other Embodiment 3) Figure 16 shows a conceptual front view of a weighing device 20C according to another embodiment 3 of the present invention. Figure 16(a) shows a state in which the display input unit (display unit 25C, operation unit 26C) is located in a first position facing the front of the article supply device 200 (object to be placed), and Figure 16(b) shows a state in which the display input unit has moved to a second position, separated from the front of the article supply device 200 (object to be placed) and not facing the front of the article supply device 200 (object to be placed). The following explains its structure.

[0120] As shown in Figures 16(a) and 16(b), the display input section (display section 25C, operation section 26C) of the weighing device 20C is cantilevered on the upper part of the support column 50C and is rotatable about the support shaft 50C1. Furthermore, the weighing section 24C of the weighing device 20C has a platform 24Ca and a base 24Cb, and the lower part of the support column 50C is provided at the front of the base 24Cb.

[0121] According to this weighing device 20C, when removing the item supply device 200 placed on the platform 24Ca from the front of the weighing device 20C, the display input unit is rotated around the support shaft 50C1 (in the direction of the arrow shown in Figure 16(a)) relative to the support column 50C, and the display input unit is moved from the first position shown in Figure 16(a) to the second position shown in Figure 16(b). The store clerk can easily remove the item supply device 200, which is placed on the platform 24Ca of the weighing device 20C, from the platform 24Ca by moving it forward.

[0122] In addition, in the above-described embodiment 2, a locking mechanism (locking mechanism) can be provided to restrict the rotation of the display input unit relative to the support column 50C when the display input unit is in the first position (Figure 16(a)). In this case, the display input unit is stably maintained in the first position, so that the display input unit (operation unit 26C) can be operated stably.

[0123] Furthermore, in the other embodiments described above, the display input unit was configured to be movable between a first position facing the front of the article placed on the platform and a second position spaced away from the front of the article and not facing the front of the article. However, even with other modifications described below, the article supply device 200 placed on the platform of the weighing device can be easily removed from the platform forward.

[0124] (Other variations) Figure 17 shows a conceptual side view of another modified weighing device 20D. Figure 17(a) shows the state in which the support column 50D and the display input unit are located in front of the front of the item supply device 200 (item to be placed), and Figure 17(b) shows the state in which a part of the support column 50 and the display input unit have moved behind the front of the item supply device 200 (item to be placed). The following explains its structure.

[0125] As shown in Figures 17(a) and 17(b), the display input unit of the weighing device 20D is located on the upper part of the support column 50D. Furthermore, the weighing section 24D of the weighing device 20D has a platform 24Da and a base 24Db, and the lower part of the support column 50D is provided on the front side of the base 24Db in the left-right direction so as to be rotatable around a support shaft 50D1 (horizontal axis). Note that the support column 50D can be provided as a pair (2) on the front side of the base 24Db in the left-right direction, or as a single column on either the left or right side.

[0126] According to this weighing device 20D, when removing the item supply device 200 placed on the platform 24Da from the front of the weighing device 20D, the support column 50D is rotated around the support shaft 50D1 (in the direction of the arrow shown in Figure 17(a)), thereby moving the support column 50D and the display input unit from a state where they are positioned in front of the front of the item supply device 200 (the item being placed) (Figure 17(a)) to a state where a part of the support column 50D and the display input unit are moved behind the front of the item supply device 200, as shown in Figure 17(b). The store clerk can easily remove the item supply device 200, which is placed on the platform 24Da of the weighing device 20D, from the platform 24Da by moving it forward.

[0127] In addition, in the above-mentioned modifications, a locking mechanism (locking mechanism) can be provided to restrict the rotation of the support column 50D relative to the base 24Db when the support column 50D and the display input unit are located in front of the front of the item supply device 200 (placed object) (Figure 17(a)). In this case, the display input unit is stably positioned in front of the front of the item supply device 200, so that the display input unit can be operated stably.

[0128] <Summary of Embodiments> [Technical field] This invention relates to a weighing device. [Background technology] Electronic scales are known that weigh the items to be purchased and calculate the price from the unit price per unit weight of those items (for example, Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 6-50740). [Overview of the prefecture] [Problems the invention aims to solve] The aforementioned electronic scale did not adequately address the various scenarios that might arise in weighing and selling goods, and there was room for improvement. Therefore, in view of these circumstances, the object of the present invention is to provide a weighing device that can suitably handle various situations that may be anticipated in weighing and selling.

[0129] [Means for solving the problem] (1) As described above, one aspect of this embodiment is The weighing device comprises a base and a platform, a weighing unit for weighing the purchase weight of items placed on the platform, a display unit for displaying the weighing result from the weighing unit, an input unit for inputting information regarding the purchase of items, and a support column connecting the display input unit to the weighing unit, wherein the upper part of the support column is provided with the display input unit, and the lower part of the support column is provided in front of the base, and the display input unit is movable between a first position facing the front of the item placed on the platform and a second position spaced away from the front of the item and not facing the front of the item. According to the above configuration, for example, in weighing and selling at a store, the item supply device placed on the weighing device can be easily removed, and the replenishment and replacement of items can be carried out smoothly.

[0130] (2) In one embodiment of this invention, in the weighing device described in (2) above, the lower part of the support column is rotatably connected to the front part of the base via a rotating part, thereby making the display input unit movable between the first position and the second position. According to the above configuration, for example, in weighing and selling at a store, the item supply device placed on the weighing device can be easily removed, and the replenishment and replacement of items can be carried out smoothly.

[0131] (3) One aspect of this embodiment is the weighing device described in (2) above, wherein the support column is rotatably connected by the rotating part between an upright position relative to the weighing unit and a reclined position relative to the weighing unit, and the rotating part has a holding mechanism that maintains the position of the support column in the upright position. According to the above configuration, the support column on which the display input unit is provided is stably maintained in an upright position relative to the weighing unit, so that the display input unit can be operated stably. Furthermore, even if an unintentional external force is applied to the support column of the weighing device by, for example, a customer's fingers, the rotating part of the weighing device maintains the support column's position stably by the holding mechanism, thus preventing the support column from falling over due to such an external force.

[0132] (4) One aspect of this embodiment is a weighing device as described in (3) above, wherein the holding mechanism has a locking portion and a locked portion that is locked to the locking portion. According to the above configuration, when the support column is in its upright position, the locking part is locked to the locked part, thereby allowing the support column to be held in an upright position stably and reliably relative to the base of the weighing unit.

[0133] (5) One aspect of this embodiment is the weighing device described in (4) above, wherein the locking portion has a protrusion that engages with the locked portion, and the locked portion has a recess that engages with the protrusion of the locking portion. According to the above configuration, when the support column is in its upright position, the protrusion of the locking part is inserted into the recess of the locked part and locked in place, thereby stably and reliably maintaining the support column in an upright position relative to the base of the weighing unit.

[0134] (6) One aspect of this embodiment is a weighing device as described in (4) above, wherein the locking portion has an engaging member that engages with the locked portion and an operating portion that rotates the engaging member, the locked portion has an engaged member that engages with the engaging member of the locking portion, and the engaging member is configured to be movable between a locking position in which it is engaged with the engaged member and a retracted position in which it is moved away from the engaged member by operation of the operating portion. According to the above configuration, by engaging the engaging member with the engaged member when the support column is in its upright position, the support column can be stably and reliably held upright relative to the base of the weighing unit. Furthermore, the operating unit can be easily operated by the fingers of a store employee.

[0135] (7) One aspect of this embodiment is the weighing device described in (6) above, wherein the rotating part has a restricting member that prevents the operation of the operating part from a predetermined direction. With the above configuration, the restricting member can prevent operation of the operating section from the left or right (operation by fingers, etc.), thereby preventing the support column from falling over due to unintentional operation.

[0136] (8) One aspect of this embodiment is a weighing device as described in any of (1) to (7) above, wherein the support column consists of a pair of support columns, a space for a container to receive the purchased goods is formed between the pair of support columns, a guide portion is provided on the aforementioned base or the pair of support columns for guiding the container to the goods receiving position, the guide portion is formed in a concave shape that tapers toward the front part of the base, and the container guided to the concave goods receiving position is positioned so as not to come into contact with the aforementioned base of the weighing unit. According to the above configuration, the container guided and positioned by the guide unit can reliably contain the items discharged from the discharge unit of the item supply device. Furthermore, since the container is positioned so as not to come into contact with the platform of the weighing unit, the weighing unit can perform the weighing process accurately. [Explanation of symbols]

[0137] 1: Sales Processing System 2: Sales Unit 3: Shelf 4A: First weighing unit 4B: Second weighing unit 4C: Third weighing unit 10, 20, 20A~20D, 30: Measuring device 24:Measuring part 24a, 24Aa~24Da: Mounting stand 24b, 24Ab~24Db: Base 25, 25A~25D: Display unit (Display input unit: Display unit) 26, 26A~25D: Operation section (Display input section: Input section) 50, 50A~50D: Post 60: Rotating part 100: Goods supply device 200: Goods supply device (placed object) 300: Goods supply device 600: Mounting parts 602: Guide surface (guide section) 606: Locked piece (holding mechanism: locked part, engaged member) 610: Side panel member 611: Third bearing section (regulating member) 620: Locking part (holding mechanism) 621: Operating component (operating part) 623: Engaging part 623a: Engaging part (engaging member) 710: Locking part (holding mechanism) 712: Insertion part (protruding part) 720: Locked part (holding mechanism) 721C: Recessed groove (concave)

Claims

1. A weighing unit comprising a base and a platform, which weighs the purchase weight of items placed on the platform described above, A display input unit having a display unit that displays the weighing results from the weighing unit and an input unit for inputting information regarding the purchase of goods, A support column connecting the display input unit to the weighing unit, Equipped with, The upper part of the support column is provided with the display input unit, and the lower part of the support column is provided in front of the base. The display input unit is movable between a first position facing the front of the object placed on the aforementioned stand and a second position spaced away from the front of the object and not facing the front of the object. A weighing device characterized by the following features.

2. The lower part of the support column is rotatably connected to the front part of the base via a pivoting part, thereby allowing the display input unit to move between the first position and the second position. The weighing device according to claim 1, characterized in that it is a weighing device.

3. The support column is rotatably connected by the rotating part to the weighing unit, so as to be between an upright position where it is standing upright relative to the weighing unit and a fallen position where it is lying down relative to the weighing unit. The rotating part has a holding mechanism that maintains the support column in an upright position. The weighing device according to claim 2, characterized in that it is a weighing device.

4. The aforementioned holding mechanism is The locking part and Having a locking portion that is locked to the locking portion The weighing device according to claim 3, characterized in that it is a weighing device.

5. The locking portion has a protrusion that engages with the locked portion, The locked portion has a recess into which the protrusion of the locked portion engages. The weighing device according to claim 4.

6. The locking portion comprises an engaging member that engages with the locked portion and an operating portion that rotates the engaging member. The locked portion has an engaged member that engages with the engaging member of the locked portion, The engaging member is configured to be movable between a locked position in which it engages with the engaged member and a retracted position in which it moves away from the engaged member by operation of the operating unit. The weighing device according to claim 4.

7. The rotating part has a restricting member that prevents operation of the operating part from a predetermined direction. The weighing device according to claim 6, characterized in that it is a weighing device.

8. The support column consists of a pair of support columns, and a space for arranging a container to receive the purchased items is formed between the pair of support columns, and a guide portion is provided on the aforementioned stand or the pair of support columns to guide the container to the item receiving position, The guide portion is formed in a concave shape that tapers toward the front of the base, and the container guided to the concave article receiving position is positioned so as not to come into contact with the front plate of the weighing unit. A weighing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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