Information processing terminals and information processing programs

Abstract

We provide technology that allows you to check the weight of a product. [Solution] The information processing terminal comprises a setting unit, a weight acquisition unit, a comparison unit, and a display processing unit. The setting unit sets the target weight. The weight acquisition unit acquires the weight of the product. The comparison unit compares the target weight with the total weight of the product. The display processing unit displays visualization information on the display unit to visualize the comparison result obtained by the comparison unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an information processing terminal and an information processing program.

Background Art

[0002] In commercial facilities such as supermarkets, customers may use shopping carts to shop. When using a shopping cart, customers cannot check the weight of the products placed in the shopping cart. Therefore, when carrying the purchased products home, the weight of the products purchased may be larger than expected, resulting in a greater load during transportation.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for a technology that can check the weight of purchased products.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a technology that can check the weight of products.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In one embodiment, the information processing terminal includes a setting unit, a weight acquisition unit, a comparison unit, and a display processing unit. The setting unit sets a target weight. The weight acquisition unit acquires the weight of the products. The comparison unit compares the target weight with the total weight of the products. The display processing unit displays visualization information for visualizing the comparison result by the comparison unit on a display unit.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating an information processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a weight selection image displayed in a POS terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a weight display image displayed in a POS terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a notification image displayed in a POS terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of information processing by a POS terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a block diagram illustrating an information processing system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 illustrates the data structure of product information according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 illustrates the data structure of transaction information according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of information processing by a POS terminal according to the second embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] (First Embodiment) (Example configuration) The first embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same reference numerals are used for the same components whenever possible, and redundant explanations are omitted. Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating an information processing system 100 according to the first embodiment. The information processing system 100 includes a server 1, a POS (Point of Sales) terminal 2, and a cart 5. The cart 5 includes a sensor 3. The server 1 and the POS terminal 2 are connected to each other via a network so that they can communicate with each other. For example, the network consists of one or more networks from among various networks such as the Internet, a mobile communication network, and a LAN (Local Area Network). The one or more networks may include a wireless network or a wired network. Note that the information processing system 100 may also refer to the system including the POS terminal 2 and the cart 5.

[0009] Server 1 is an electronic device that collects and processes data. The electronic device includes a computer. Server 1 is connected to POS terminal 2 via a network in a communicative manner. Server 1 receives various data from POS terminal 2 and outputs various data to POS terminal 2.

[0010] POS terminal 2 is an electronic device capable of communicating with other electronic devices. POS terminal 2 is, for example, a device used by customers making purchases in a store. POS terminal 2 is a device capable of product registration operations such as registering products, changing quantities, and canceling purchases. Products include, but are not limited to, tangible items such as food and beverages, clothing, and household goods. Customers register purchased items by, for example, reading product identification codes, etc., using a camera or scanner built into or externally connected to POS terminal 2. Customers perform operations such as canceling registered products or changing quantities by operating POS terminal 2. POS terminal 2 may be a terminal used mounted on cart 5, or a terminal used independently of cart 5. POS terminal 2 may be a terminal lent by the store, or a terminal owned by the user. POS terminal 2 can be a PC (Personal Computer), smartphone, or tablet device, etc. Customer may be read as user or person. POS terminal 2 is an example of an information processing terminal. An example configuration of POS terminal 2 will be described later. In the following explanation, a customer is referred to as a user of POS terminal 2, or simply as a user. There may be multiple POS terminals 2 in a single store.

[0011] Sensor 3 is an electronic device capable of communicating with other electronic devices mounted on cart 5. Sensor 3 is, for example, a weighing device that detects the weight of items placed in cart 5. For example, when a user starts shopping using cart 5, sensor 3 may set the weight detected by the weighing device to zero when the shopping basket is placed on cart 5. Cart 5 is, for example, a shopping cart used by a user in a store. Cart 5 is designed to hold a total of two shopping baskets, one on the upper level and one on the lower level. The shopping baskets may be placed on both the upper and lower levels of cart 5, or on either one. Sensor 3 is capable of detecting the weight of the upper and lower levels of cart 5. Sensor 3 may be a device capable of detecting the combined weight of the upper and lower levels of cart 5, or a device capable of detecting the weight of the upper and lower levels of cart 5 separately. Note that the number of shopping baskets that can be installed on cart 5 is not limited to two. Cart 5 is an example of a cart capable of detecting weight. A shopping basket is also simply called a basket or a basket.

[0012] This section describes an example configuration for POS terminal 2. The POS terminal 2 is an electronic device that includes a processing circuit 21, main memory 22, auxiliary storage device 23, communication interface 24, connection interface 25, display device 26, speaker 27, input device 28, and camera 29. Each component of the POS terminal 2 is connected to each other so that signals can be input and output.

[0013] The processing circuit 21 corresponds to the central part of the POS terminal 2. The processing circuit 21 is an element that constitutes the computer of the POS terminal 2. The processing circuit 21 includes one or more circuits that perform multiple processes by multiple functions. For example, the circuit is a processor, ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), but is not limited to these. For example, the processor is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), but is not limited to these. The processing circuit 21 loads a program pre-stored in the main memory 22 or auxiliary storage device 23 into the main memory 22. The program is a program that allows the processing circuit 21 to execute the processing performed by each part described later. By executing the program loaded into the main memory 22, the processing circuit 21 makes it possible to perform various processes.

[0014] The main memory 22 includes elements corresponding to the main memory portion of the POS terminal 2. The main memory 22 is an element that constitutes the computer of the POS terminal 2. The main memory 22 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area of ​​the main memory 22, the operating system or programs are stored. The volatile memory area of ​​the main memory 22 is used as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processing circuit 21. For example, the main memory 22 includes ROM (Read Only Memory) as a non-volatile memory area. For example, the main memory 22 includes RAM (Random Access Memory) as a volatile memory area. The main memory 22 is an example of the storage unit of the POS terminal 2.

[0015] The auxiliary storage device 23 corresponds to the auxiliary storage part of the POS terminal 2. The auxiliary storage device 23 includes one or more storage devices. The storage device is, for example, an EEPROM (registered trademark) (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disc Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), flash memory, etc., but is not limited thereto. The auxiliary storage device 23 stores the above-described program, data used by the processing circuit 21 to perform various processes, and data generated by the processes in the processing circuit 21.

[0016] The auxiliary storage device 23 stores target weight information. The target weight information is information indicating a target weight. The target weight is the target total weight of the merchandise set by the user of the POS terminal 2. The target weight is, for example, the total weight of the merchandise desired by the user. The target weight indicates the target value of the total weight of the merchandise that the user purchases. The target weight may indicate the total weight of the merchandise that the user can purchase. The target weight may indicate the total weight of the merchandise that the user of the POS terminal 2 can take home. The target weight can be set, for example, for each transaction. A transaction is the transfer of payment from a customer to a store accompanying the sale of merchandise by the store. A transaction includes the meaning of the sale of merchandise from the perspective of the store. A transaction includes the meaning of the purchase of merchandise from the perspective of the customer.

[0017] The auxiliary storage device 23 stores weight information. The weight information is information indicating the weight of the goods purchased by the user. The weight information is, for example, information indicating the weight of the goods placed in the cart 5. The goods placed in the cart 5 are the goods placed in the shopping basket installed in the cart 5. The weight information may be information indicating the weight of the cart 5. The weight of the cart 5 includes weight data indicating the weight inside the cart 5 detected by the sensor 3. The weight data is data output from the sensor 3 in time series. The weight of the cart 5 may be the total weight of the basket. The total weight of the basket may include the weight of the goods placed in the cart 5 and the weight of the shopping basket installed in the cart 5. The weight information may be information indicating the total weight of the goods purchased by the user. The auxiliary storage device 23 updates the weight information every time it acquires weight data from the cart 5.

[0018] The auxiliary storage device 23 may store transaction information. The transaction information includes the product information of the registered products. The product information includes product identification information, product name, quantity of the product, price of the product, etc. The product identification information is unique identification information assigned to each product for individually identifying the product. The product identification information is, for example, a product code or a product ID. The transaction information may include information related to payment processing.

[0019] The auxiliary storage device 23 may store a product master. The product master stores the product identification information in association with the product information of the products handled in the store. The product information includes the product name, price, etc.

[0020] The communication interface 24 includes various interfaces that connect the POS terminal 2 to other devices via a network in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol. The communication interface 24, for example, communicably connects the POS terminal 2 and an external device via a network. The network may include a wireless network or a wired network. The network includes, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network), Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), etc.

[0021] The connection interface 25 is an interface for wired connection between the POS terminal 2 and external equipment. The external equipment includes a scanner 30.

[0022] The scanner 30 is a device that reads various code symbols and obtains information from them. For example, the code symbol may be a one-dimensional barcode symbol or a two-dimensional code symbol. The code symbol may also include a product code symbol that records a product code. The product code symbol is an image attached to the product. The code symbol may also include a code symbol that records a membership code. The code symbol that records a membership code may be an image that can be displayed on the customer's terminal. The code symbol may also include a code symbol for code payment.

[0023] The display device 26 is a device capable of displaying various screens under the control of the processing circuit 21. For example, the display device 26 is a liquid crystal display or an EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, etc. The display device 26 is an example of a display unit.

[0024] Speaker 27 is a device capable of outputting sound under the control of POS terminal 2. Speaker 27 is an example of an audio output device.

[0025] The input device 28 is a device capable of inputting data or instructions to the POS terminal 2. The input device 28 may include a keyboard or a touch panel, etc.

[0026] Camera 29 is a device capable of acquiring shooting data within the shooting range. Camera 29 can, for example, photograph items in the shopping cart 5.

[0027] The hardware configuration of POS terminal 2 is not limited to the configuration described above. POS terminal 2 allows for the omission and modification of the above-mentioned components, as well as the addition of new components, as appropriate.

[0028] The various components implemented in the processing circuit 21 described above will now be explained. The processing circuit 21 implements the setting unit 210, the weight processing unit 211, the comparison unit 212, and the display processing unit 213. Each part implemented in the processing circuit 21 can also be called a function. Each part implemented in the processing circuit 21 can also be said to be implemented in the control unit which includes the processing circuit 21 and the main memory 22.

[0029] The setting unit 210 sets the target weight. The setting unit 210 sets the target weight based on the user's operation of the POS terminal 2. The user's operation is, for example, inputting the target weight via the input device 28. The user may, for example, input the target weight according to the weight selection image displayed on the display device 26. The user may input the target weight by selecting the target weight button on the weight selection image displayed on the display device 26. The user may input the target weight in the text box of the weight selection image displayed on the display device 26. The user may input the target weight by operating the seek bar of the weight selection image displayed on the display device 26. The setting unit 210 saves the target weight in the auxiliary storage device 23.

[0030] The setting unit 210 updates the target weight based on user instructions. User instructions include, for example, instructions to change the target weight. A change instruction is an instruction to change the target weight. A change instruction may include information indicating the changed target weight. The user may input a change instruction by, for example, selecting a weight change button displayed on the display device 26. The setting unit 210 updates the target weight based on, for example, the user's input of the changed target weight. The setting unit 210 stores the changed target weight in the auxiliary storage device 23.

[0031] The weight processing unit 211 acquires the weight of the product. For example, the weight processing unit 211 acquires weight data from the sensor 3 via the communication interface 24. The weight data is an example of the detection result of the weight of the product placed in the cart 5. Based on the weight data, the weight processing unit 211 acquires the weight of the product. The weight processing unit 211 may acquire the weight indicated in the weight data as the weight of the product. Based on the weight data, the weight processing unit 211 may calculate the total weight of the product. The total weight of the product represents the total weight of the products placed in the shopping basket in the cart 5. The total weight of the product may include the weight of the shopping basket in the cart 5. For example, if the weight of the basket is set in advance, the weight processing unit 211 may calculate the total weight of the product based on the weight of the product and the weight of the basket. Specifically, the weight processing unit 211 may calculate the total weight of the product by subtracting the weight of the basket from the weight data acquired from the sensor 3. In the following description, "acquire" may be read as "receive".

[0032] The comparison unit 212 compares the target weight with the total weight of the product. The comparison unit 212 may determine whether the total weight of the product exceeds the target weight. The comparison unit 212 may store the comparison result in the auxiliary storage device 23. The comparison result may include information indicating the target weight and information indicating the total weight of the product. The comparison result may include information indicating the relative relationship between the target weight and the total weight of the product. The comparison result may include information indicating whether the total weight of the product exceeds the target weight.

[0033] The display processing unit 213 processes the display on the display device 26. The display processing unit 213 displays various images on the display device 26. For example, the display processing unit 213 displays a weight selection image on the display device 26. The weight selection image is an image for the user to set a target weight. The display processing unit 213 displays a weight display image on the display device 26. The weight display image is an image that shows visualization information for visualizing the comparison results by the comparison unit 212. The visualization information is information for visualizing the target weight and the total weight of the product. The visualization information may also be information for visualizing the comparative relationship between the target weight and the total weight of the product. For example, the visualization information may be information for visualizing the comparison result between the target weight and the total weight of the product. The visualization information may also be information that visualizes the ratio of the total weight of the product to the target weight. The visualization information may also be information for visualizing whether or not the total weight of the product exceeds the target weight. The visualization information may include information showing the target weight and the total weight of the product. The visualization information may also be, for example, a data bar. The visualization information may also be an icon. The visualization information may also be a text message.

[0034] The display processing unit 213 displays various notifications on the display device 26. Notifications include alerts, warnings, and messages. For example, the display processing unit 213 displays an alert on the display device 26 based on the comparison result by the comparison unit 212. For example, the display processing unit 213 displays an alert on the display device 26 if the total weight of the products exceeds the target weight. The alert may include a message indicating that the total weight of the products has exceeded the target weight. The message may be, for example, "Total weight has exceeded the target weight," or "Please check the weight of your basket." The message may also include information indicating the total weight of the products. The alert is not limited to a text message and may include audio, images, or videos.

[0035] (Example display) An example of the display on the display device 26 of the POS terminal 2 will be explained. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a weight selection image displayed in the POS terminal 2 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 shows the weight selection image Ima displayed on the display device 26 when a target weight is set in the POS terminal 2. The target weight is set, for example, at the start of shopping. The target weight may also be set in the middle of shopping. The POS terminal 2 may display the weight selection image Ima on the display device 26 based on the user's operation of the POS terminal 2. The user's operation is, for example, inputting a setting instruction to set the target weight. For example, the user may input a setting instruction by selecting a weight setting button displayed on the display device 26 using touch input or the like.

[0036] The weight selection image Ima includes the message Ma and the weight selection button display area Ara. Message Ma contains a text message such as "Please set your target weight." The weight selection button display area Ara contains weight selection buttons. Weight selection buttons are buttons for inputting instructions to select a target weight. Weight selection buttons are, for example, buttons that allow you to select a target weight. The weight selection button display area Ara may contain weight selection buttons that indicate multiple different weights. In the example in Figure 2, the weight selection button display area Ara includes weight selection buttons that indicate "500g," "1kg," and "3kg."

[0037] For example, a user can set a target weight by selecting a weight selection button displayed in the weight selection button display area Ara.

[0038] The weight selection image (Ima) may include a text box where the user can enter a weight, either in place of or in addition to the weight selection buttons. The user can set a target weight by entering any weight in the text box. The weight selection image (Ima) may include a seek bar for selecting weight, either in addition to or instead of weight selection buttons. The user can set their target weight by operating the seek bar.

[0039] In this example, the user can easily set the target weight according to the weight selection image Ima. The POS terminal 2 can set the target weight based on the user's operation.

[0040] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a weight display image displayed in the POS terminal 2 according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 shows a weight display image Imb that shows visualization information. The weight display image Imb is an example of visualization information that compares the target weight with the total weight of the product. The weight display image Imb is displayed on the display device 26, for example, after shopping has started. The POS terminal 2 may display the weight display image Imb by superimposing or compositing it onto a registered product image that displays product registration information. The product registration information shows, for example, information about products registered by the user.

[0041] The weight display image Imb includes the comparison bar display area Arb, the icon display area Arc, and the weight display area Ard. The comparison bar display area Arb, the icon display area Arc, and the weight display area Ard are areas that display visualization information.

[0042] The comparison bar display area (Arb) is an area that displays the comparison result between the target weight and the total weight of the product using comparison bars. The comparison bars visualize information such as the ratio of the total weight of the product to the target weight. For example, the comparison bars show the percentage of the total weight of the product relative to the target weight, assuming the target weight is 100 percent. In the example in Figure 3, the portion showing the ratio of the total weight of the product to the target weight is colored differently. In this example, the user can easily visualize the ratio of the total weight of the product to the target weight based on the bars.

[0043] The icon display area Arc is an area that displays the comparison result between the target weight and the total weight of the product using icons. POS terminal 2 may, for example, display different icons depending on the ratio of the total weight of the product to the target weight. POS terminal 2 may also display different icons depending on whether the total weight of the product exceeds the target weight or not. For example, POS terminal 2 may display a face icon with a gentle expression if the total weight of the product does not exceed the target weight. POS terminal 2 may display a face icon with a stern expression if the total weight of the product exceeds the target weight. In this example, the user can easily visualize the comparison relationship between the target weight and the total weight of the product based on the icons.

[0044] The weight display area Ard is an area that displays text information indicating the target weight and the total weight of the product. In the example in Figure 3, the weight display area Ard includes information indicating the numerical value of the target weight and the numerical value of the total weight. In this example, the user can compare the target weight and the total weight of the product based on the numerical values ​​of the target weight and the total weight of the product. The user can easily see the comparative relationship between the target weight and the total weight of the product.

[0045] The weight display image Imb may include at least one of the comparison bar display area Arb, the icon display area Arc, and the weight display area Ard. The weight display image Imb may also include any combination of the comparison bar display area Arb, the icon display area Arc, and the weight display area Ard.

[0046] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a notification image displayed in the POS terminal 2 according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 shows a notification image Imc displayed on the display device 26 when the total weight of the products exceeds the target weight. The notification image Imc is, for example, an alert indicating that the total weight of the products has exceeded the target weight. The POS terminal 2 may display the notification image Imc by superimposing or compositing it onto, for example, a registered product image that displays product registration information. The POS terminal 2 may also display the notification image Imc as a pop-up display.

[0047] The notification image Imc includes an alert message Mb, a hide button Ba, and a weight change button Bb. The notification image Imc may also include an area for displaying visualization information. The area for displaying visualization information includes a comparison bar display area Are, an icon display area Arf, and a weight display area Arg.

[0048] An alert message Mb is a message indicating that the total weight of the items has exceeded the target weight. Examples of alert messages Mb include: "Total weight has exceeded the target weight," "Please check the weight of your cart," or "Please set a target weight." An alert message Mb may also include information indicating the total weight of the items.

[0049] The hide button Ba is a button that allows the user to input an instruction to hide the alert message Mb. For example, if the user wants to hide the alert message Mb, they select the hide button Ba by touch input or other means. Based on the user's operation, the POS terminal 2 hides the alert message Mb. Hiding the alert message Mb corresponds to removing the display of the alert message Mb. Based on the user's selection of the hide button Ba, the POS terminal 2 may display the product registration image. Based on the user's selection of the hide button Ba, the POS terminal 2 may enable the user to register a product.

[0050] The weight change button Bb is a button on which an instruction to change the target weight can be entered. The weight change button Bb may also be a button on which an instruction to set the target weight can be entered. For example, when a user wants to change the target weight, they select the weight change button Bb by touch input or the like. The POS terminal 2 may display the weight selection image Ima on the display device 26 based on the user's operation. The POS terminal 2 may display information indicating the currently set target weight in the weight selection image Ima. Based on the user's selection of the weight change button Bb, the POS terminal 2 may enable the user to set the target weight.

[0051] The comparison bar display area "Are," like the comparison bar display area "Arb," is an area that displays the comparison result between the target weight and the total weight of the product using comparison bars. In the example in Figure 4, the comparison bars indicate that the total weight of the product exceeds the target weight. In this example, the user can easily see, based on the bars, that the total weight of the product exceeds the target weight.

[0052] The icon display area Arf, like the icon display area Arc, is an area that displays the result of comparing the target weight and the total weight of the product using icons. In the example in Figure 4, the icon display area Arf displays an icon indicating that the total weight of the product has exceeded the target weight. For example, POS terminal 2 may display a grim-faced icon. In this example, the user can easily see that the total weight of the product has exceeded the target weight based on the icon.

[0053] The weight display area Arg, like the weight display area Ard, is an area that displays text information indicating the target weight and the total weight of the product. In the example in Figure 4, the weight display area Ard indicates that the total weight exceeds the target weight. In this example, the user can easily see that the total weight of the product exceeds the target weight based on the target weight and the total weight of the product.

[0054] The notification image Imc may include at least one of the comparison bar display area Are, the icon display area Arf, and the weight display area Arg. The notification image Imc may also include any combination of the comparison bar display area Are, the icon display area Arf, and the weight display area Arg.

[0055] In this example, POS terminal 2 can display an alert message if the total weight of the products exceeds the target weight. Therefore, the user can easily recognize that the total weight of the products has exceeded the target weight based on the alert message. POS terminal 2 can also display visualization information on display device 26 indicating that the total weight of the products has exceeded the target weight. Therefore, the user can easily visually confirm that the total weight of the products has exceeded the target weight based on at least one of a comparison bar, an icon, and a numerical value.

[0056] (Example of processing) The procedure for processing by the information processing system 100 will be explained. The processing procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, depending on the embodiment, steps in the processing procedure described below may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate. The following process assumes that a user of POS terminal 2 is making a purchase at store A. The user of POS terminal 2 will set a target weight before making a purchase. In the following process, POS terminal 2 may perform initial setup before starting a purchase. Initial setup may include, for example, synchronizing POS terminal 2 with sensor 3. Initial setup may include deleting the previous weighing information from sensor 3. Initial setup may also include checking the operation of sensor 3. Operation check may include determining the battery level, checking the startup status of sensor 3, etc.

[0057] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of information processing by the POS terminal 2 according to the first embodiment.

[0058] The user of POS terminal 2 sets the target weight by selecting a weight setting button displayed on the display device 26 using touch input or other means. Based on the user's input of the weight setting button, POS terminal 2 receives the setting instruction. Based on the setting instruction, POS terminal 2 displays a weight selection image Ima on the display device 26. The user of POS terminal 2 sets the target weight according to the weight selection image Ima displayed on the display device 26. For example, the user selects a weight selection button and enters the target weight.

[0059] The processing circuit 21 sets the target weight (ACT1). ACT1 may also be a process performed by the setting unit 210 implemented by the processing circuit 21. In ACT1, for example, the processing circuit 21 obtains the target weight based on the user's operation on the POS terminal 2. The processing circuit 21 stores the target weight in the auxiliary storage device 23.

[0060] The following processes are performed while the user is shopping. When the processing circuit 21 receives an instruction to change the target weight, it executes the process of ACT1 (ACT2). ACT2 may also be the process performed by the setting unit 210 implemented by the processing circuit 21. In ACT2, for example, the processing circuit 21 updates the target weight based on the user's operation on the POS terminal 2. The user's operation includes, for example, selecting a weight change button displayed on the display device 26 by touch input. The weight change button may be included in the product registration image. Based on the user's input of the weight change button, the POS terminal 2 displays a weight selection image Ima on the display device 26. The user sets the changed target weight according to the weight selection image Ima. For example, the user selects a weight selection button and enters the changed target weight. The processing circuit 21 obtains the changed target weight. The processing circuit 21 saves the changed target weight to the auxiliary storage device 23. The user may also input an instruction to change the target weight at any time. According to this example, the POS terminal 2 can update the target weight after shopping has started, based on the user's instructions. Users can update their target weight at any time after starting their shopping.

[0061] The user of POS terminal 2 registers the items they wish to purchase on POS terminal 2 and places them in the shopping cart located in cart 5.

[0062] The processing circuit 21 obtains the weight of the product (ACT3). ACT3 may also be a process performed by the weight processing unit 211 implemented by the processing circuit 21. In ACT3, for example, the processing circuit 21 obtains weight data from the sensor 3 via the communication interface 24. The processing circuit 21 obtains the weight of the product based on the weight data. The processing circuit 21 may also calculate the weight of the product based on the weight data and the weight of the basket. The processing circuit 21 may store the weight of the product as the total weight of the product in the auxiliary storage device 23.

[0063] The processing circuit 21 compares the target weight with the total weight of the product (ACT4). ACT4 may also be a process performed by the comparison unit 212 implemented by the processing circuit 21. In ACT4, for example, the processing circuit 21 obtains the target weight from the auxiliary storage device 23. The processing circuit 21 may also obtain the total weight of the product from the auxiliary storage device 23. The processing circuit 21 compares the target weight with the total weight of the product and determines whether the total weight of the product exceeds the target weight.

[0064] The processing circuit 21 displays visualization information on the display device 26 to visualize the comparison result between the target weight and the total weight of the product (ACT5). ACT5 may also be processed by the display processing unit 213 implemented by the processing circuit 21. In ACT5, for example, the processing circuit 21 displays a weight display image Imb on the display device 26. The processing circuit 21 displays at least one of a comparison bar, an icon, and a numerical value of the weight on the display device 26, for example, to show the comparison result between the target weight and the total weight of the product.

[0065] The processing circuit 21 displays an alert on the display device 26 if the total weight of the products exceeds the target weight (ACT6). ACT6 may also be processed by the display processing unit 213 implemented by the processing circuit 21. In ACT6, for example, the processing circuit 21 displays a notification image Imc on the display device 26. The processing circuit 21 may also display an alert message on the display device 26 as a pop-up. The alert message is a message indicating that the total weight of the products has exceeded the target weight. The alert message may be, for example, "Total weight has exceeded the target weight," or "Please check the weight of your cart." The alert message may also include information indicating the total weight of the products. The alert may also include, for example, a hide button and a weight change button. The hide button is a button on which an instruction to hide the alert message can be entered. The weight change button is a button on which an instruction to change the target weight can be entered.

[0066] The user selects the hide button to hide the alert message. The processing circuit 21 hides the alert message based on the selection of the hide button. The processing circuit 21 may also display the product registration image on the display device 26.

[0067] When the user wants to change the target weight, they select the weight change button. Based on the selection of the weight change button, the processing circuit 21 receives an instruction to change the target weight. The processing circuit 21 may also display a weight selection image on the display device 26. The user sets the changed target weight according to the weight selection image. For example, the user selects the weight selection button and enters the changed target weight.

[0068] When the processing circuit 21 receives an instruction to change the target weight, it executes the process of ACT1 (ACT7). ACT7 may also be the process performed by the setting unit 210 implemented by the processing circuit 21. In ACT7, for example, the processing circuit 21 updates the target weight based on the user's operation on the POS terminal 2. The processing circuit 21 stores the target weight in the auxiliary storage device 23.

[0069] In this example, POS terminal 2 can set a target weight, obtain the weight of the product, compare the target weight with the total weight of the product, and display visualization information on display device 26 to visualize the comparison result. Therefore, POS terminal 2 can provide the user with a comparison result between the target weight set by the user and the total weight of the product actually purchased. Based on the visualization information, the user can easily compare the target weight with the total weight of the product actually purchased. Based on the visualization information, the user can adjust the total weight of the purchased product by adding or removing items to ensure that the total weight of the purchased product does not exceed the target weight. This prevents the user from purchasing a product that is heavier than expected and thus the burden of carrying it from becoming greater than expected. In this way, POS terminal 2 can provide a technology that allows users to check the weight of the product.

[0070] Furthermore, POS terminal 2 can obtain the weight of items based on the weight detection results of items placed in the cart. Therefore, each time an item is placed in the cart, POS terminal 2 can provide the user with a comparison result between the target weight and the total weight of the items in the cart. While shopping, the user can easily compare the target weight with the total weight of the items they actually purchase based on the visualized information. Based on the visualized information, the user can adjust the total weight of the items purchased during shopping by adding or removing items so that the total weight of the purchased items does not exceed the target weight. This allows the user to prevent the purchased items from being heavier than expected, thus preventing the burden of carrying them from becoming greater than expected. In this way, POS terminal 2 can provide technology that allows users to check the weight of the items they purchase in advance.

[0071] Furthermore, POS terminal 2 can update the target weight at the user's instruction. Therefore, POS terminal 2 can update the target weight at any time at the user's instruction. For example, the user can change the target weight at any time, such as when they want to change the target weight while shopping, or when the total weight of the items exceeds the target weight. POS terminal 2 can easily compare the updated target weight with the actual total weight of the items purchased. Based on the visualization information, the user can adjust the total weight of the items purchased by adding or removing items so that it does not exceed the updated target weight. This prevents the user from purchasing items that are heavier than expected, thus preventing the burden of carrying them from becoming unnecessarily heavy. In this way, POS terminal 2 can provide technology that allows users to check the weight of the items they are purchasing.

[0072] Furthermore, based on the comparison results, POS terminal 2 can display an alert on display device 26 if the total weight of the products exceeds the target weight. Therefore, POS terminal 2 can easily provide users with the ability to recognize when the total weight of the products exceeds the target weight. Users can easily recognize when the total weight of the products exceeds the target weight based on the alert. For example, based on the alert, users can adjust the total weight of the products they purchase by adding or removing items so that the total weight of the purchased products does not exceed the updated target weight. This prevents users from purchasing products that are heavier than expected, resulting in an unnecessarily heavy carrying burden. In this way, POS terminal 2 can provide technology that allows users to check the weight of the products they purchase. (Second embodiment) The second embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. The second embodiment, like the first embodiment, displays visualization information to visualize the comparison result between the target weight and the total weight of the product. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it is an example in which the POS terminal 2 does not use weight data from the sensor 3.

[0073] Components similar to those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted. In the second embodiment, the differences from the first embodiment will be described primarily. (Example configuration) Figure 6 is a block diagram illustrating an information processing system 100 according to the second embodiment. The information processing system 100 includes a server 1, a POS terminal 2, and a cart 5. The server 1 and the POS terminal 2 are connected to each other via a network so that they can communicate with one another. For example, the network consists of one or more networks from among various networks such as the Internet, a mobile communication network, and a LAN. The one or more networks may include a wireless network or a wired network.

[0074] This section describes an example configuration for POS terminal 2. The POS terminal 2 is an electronic device that includes a processing circuit 21, main memory 22, auxiliary storage device 23, communication interface 24, connection interface 25, display device 26, speaker 27, input device 28, and camera 29. Each component of the POS terminal 2 is connected to each other so that signals can be input and output.

[0075] The processing circuit 21 corresponds to the central part of the POS terminal 2. The processing circuit 21 is an element that constitutes the computer of the POS terminal 2. The processing circuit 21 includes one or more circuits that execute multiple processes by multiple functions. The processing circuit 21 loads a program that is pre-stored in the main memory 22 or auxiliary storage device 23 into the main memory 22. The program is a program that allows the processing circuit 21 to execute processes by each part described later. By executing the program loaded into the main memory 22, the processing circuit 21 makes it possible to execute various processes.

[0076] The main memory 22 includes elements corresponding to the main memory portion of the POS terminal 2. The main memory 22 is an element that constitutes the computer of the POS terminal 2. The main memory 22 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area of ​​the main memory 22, the operating system or programs are stored. The volatile memory area of ​​the main memory 22 is used as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processing circuit 21. The main memory 22 is an example of the storage unit of the POS terminal 2.

[0077] The auxiliary storage device 23 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the POS terminal 2. The auxiliary storage device 23 includes one or more storage devices. The auxiliary storage device 23 stores the above-mentioned program, data used by the processing circuit 21 in performing various processes, and data generated by the processing in the processing circuit 21.

[0078] The auxiliary memory device 23 stores target weight information.

[0079] The auxiliary storage device 23 stores weight information. The weight information indicates the weight of the product purchased by the user. For example, the weight information indicates the weight of the product placed in cart 5. For example, the weight information indicates the weight of the product based on the product information. The weight information may also indicate the total weight of the products placed in cart 5. The auxiliary storage device 23 updates the weight information each time the weight of a product is retrieved.

[0080] The auxiliary storage device 23 stores transaction information. The transaction information includes product information for registered products. Product information includes product identification information, product name, quantity of product, price of product, etc. Product identification information is unique identification information assigned to each product to identify each product individually. Product identification information is, for example, a product code or product ID. The transaction information may also include information related to payment processing. The auxiliary storage device 23 updates the transaction information each time a product is registered by the user. The transaction information may include at least the product identification information and quantity of the registered product.

[0081] The auxiliary storage device 23 stores the product master. The product master stores product identification information and product information for products handled at the store in association with each other. The product information includes product name, product weight, price, etc. The product weight is set in advance, for example, by the store manager. The product master may include at least product identification information and product weight.

[0082] The communication interface 24 includes various interfaces that enable the POS terminal 2 to communicate with other devices via a network, in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0083] The connection interface 25 is an interface for wired connection between the POS terminal 2 and external equipment. The external equipment includes a scanner 30. The external equipment may also include an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) reader. The RFID reader reads tag information, etc., recorded on the RFID tag by communicating with the RFID tag attached to the product. The tag information includes product identification information, etc.

[0084] The display device 26 is a device that can display various screens under the control of the processing circuit 21.

[0085] Speaker 27 is a device capable of outputting sound under the control of POS terminal 2. Speaker 27 is an example of an audio output device.

[0086] The input device 28 is a device capable of inputting data or instructions to the POS terminal 2. The input device 28 may include a keyboard or a touch panel, etc.

[0087] Camera 29 is a device capable of acquiring shooting data within the shooting range. Camera 29 can, for example, photograph items in the shopping cart 5.

[0088] The hardware configuration of POS terminal 2 is not limited to the configuration described above. POS terminal 2 allows for the omission and modification of the above-mentioned components, as well as the addition of new components, as appropriate.

[0089] The various components implemented in the processing circuit 21 described above will now be explained. The processing circuit 21 implements the setting unit 210, the product registration processing unit 214, the weight processing unit 211, the comparison unit 212, and the display processing unit 213. Each part implemented in the processing circuit 21 can also be called a function. Each part implemented in the processing circuit 21 can also be said to be implemented in the control unit which includes the processing circuit 21 and the main memory 22.

[0090] The setting unit 210 sets the target weight. The setting unit 210 sets the target weight based on the user's operation on the POS terminal 2. The setting unit 210 stores the target weight in the auxiliary storage device 23.

[0091] The setting unit 210 updates the target weight according to the user's instructions. The setting unit 210 saves the changed target weight to the auxiliary storage device 23.

[0092] The product registration processing unit 214 performs product registration processing based on user operations on the POS terminal 2. Specifically, based on the fact that the product code of a product has been scanned by the user via the scanner 30, the product registration processing unit 214 refers to the product master and obtains product information for the product corresponding to the product code. Product information includes data such as product identification information, product name, product price, and product weight. The product price indicates the unit price of the product. The product weight indicates the weight per unit of product. If the product is sold in sets of multiple units, the product weight may be the weight per set. The product weight may also be the weight per unit of product sales. The product corresponding to the product code is also called the transaction product. The product registration processing unit 214 stores the product information of the transaction product as transaction information in the auxiliary storage device 23. The product registration processing unit 214 may also output the transaction information to the server 1. In addition, the product registration processing unit 214 may obtain the product code of the transaction product and obtain product information for the product corresponding to the product code based on the user's selection of the transaction product using the input device 28. The product registration processing unit 214 may also obtain the product code of the product to be traded by scanning the RFID tag via an RFID reader at the user's discretion and obtain the product information of the product corresponding to the product code. Alternatively, the product registration processing unit 214 may obtain the product information of a product based on an image of the product captured by the user via the camera 29.

[0093] The product registration processing unit 214 may also perform product registration processing in cooperation with server 1. In this case, the product registration processing unit 214 outputs a product registration request to server 1. Server 1 retrieves product information from the product master based on the product code included in the product registration request and saves the product information as transaction information. Server 1 may also retrieve product information based on the product image. Server 1 outputs the transaction information to POS terminal 2. The product registration processing unit 214 saves the transaction information.

[0094] The product registration processing unit 214 may store the quantity of products registered by the user as transaction information.

[0095] The weight processing unit 211 obtains the weight of the product. For example, the weight processing unit 211 obtains the weight of the product based on the product information of the product registered by the user. For example, the weight processing unit 211 obtains product identification information and the quantity of the product based on transaction information. The weight processing unit 211 obtains the weight of the registered product by referring to the product information based on the product identification information and the quantity of the product. The weight processing unit 211 may also calculate the weight of the registered product based on the quantity and weight of the product. For example, if two units of product A are registered by the user, the weight processing unit 211 refers to the product information and calculates the weight of two units of product A. The weight processing unit 211 calculates the total weight of the products registered by the user.

[0096] The comparison unit 212 compares the target weight with the total weight of the product. The comparison unit 212 determines whether the total weight of the product exceeds the target weight. The comparison unit 212 may store the comparison result of whether or not the total weight of the product exceeds the target weight in the auxiliary storage device 23.

[0097] The display processing unit 213 processes the display on the display device 26. The display processing unit 213 displays various images on the display device 26.

[0098] The display processing unit 213 displays various notifications on the display device 26.

[0099] Product information and transaction information will be explained. Figure 7 illustrates the data structure of product information according to the second embodiment.

[0100] Figure 7 illustrates a portion of the data structure of product information stored in the auxiliary storage device 23. The product information includes at least product identification information and information indicating weight. The weight is the weight of each unit of product sold. In the example in Figure 7, the product information includes the product code and weight. For example, suppose the product with product code "0001" is sold by the unit of sale. In this case, the product information would indicate that the weight per unit of product with product code "0001" is "100g".

[0101] Figure 8 illustrates the data structure of transaction information according to the second embodiment. Figure 8 illustrates a portion of the data structure of transaction information stored in the auxiliary storage device 23. The transaction information includes at least product identification information and information indicating the registered quantity. The registered quantity is the number of registered products. The registered quantity may also be the number of sales units. For example, if one set of products sold in sets is registered, the registered quantity is "1". In the example in Figure 8, the product information includes the product code and the number of registered items. For example, suppose the product with product code "0001" is sold by the quantity. In this case, the transaction information would indicate that 2 units of product with product code "0001" were registered by the user.

[0102] (Example of processing) The procedure for processing by the information processing system 100 will be explained. The processing procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, depending on the embodiment, steps in the processing procedure described below may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate. The following process assumes that a user of POS terminal 2 is making a purchase at store A. The user of POS terminal 2 will set a target weight before making a purchase. In the following process, POS terminal 2 may perform initial setup before the shopping process begins.

[0103] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of information processing by the POS terminal 2 according to the second embodiment.

[0104] Similar to the first embodiment, the user of POS terminal 2 sets the target weight by selecting a weight setting button displayed on the display device 26 via touch input or the like. Based on the user's input of the weight setting button, POS terminal 2 receives a setting instruction. Based on the setting instruction, POS terminal 2 displays a weight selection image Ima on the display device 26. The user of POS terminal 2 sets the target weight according to the weight selection image Ima displayed on the display device 26. For example, the user selects a weight selection button and enters the target weight.

[0105] The processing circuit 21 sets the target weight (ACT11), similar to ACT1. ACT11 may also be processed by the setting unit 210 implemented by the processing circuit 21. In ACT11, for example, the processing circuit 21 obtains the target weight based on the user's operation on the POS terminal 2. The processing circuit 21 stores the target weight in the auxiliary storage device 23.

[0106] The following processes are performed while the user is shopping. Similar to ACT2, the processing circuit 21 executes the process of ACT11 (ACT12) when it receives an instruction to change the target weight. ACT12 may also be a process performed by the setting unit 210 implemented by the processing circuit 21. In ACT12, for example, the processing circuit 21 updates the target weight based on the user's operation on the POS terminal 2. The user's operation includes, for example, selecting a weight change button displayed on the display device 26 by touch input. The processing circuit 21 obtains the changed target weight based on the user's operation. The processing circuit 21 saves the changed target weight to the auxiliary storage device 23. The user may also input an instruction to change the target weight at any time. According to this example, the POS terminal 2 can update the target weight after shopping has started, based on the user's instructions. The user can update the target weight at any time after shopping has started.

[0107] The processing circuit 21 registers a product based on user operation (ACT13). ACT13 may also be processed by the product registration processing unit 214 implemented by the processing circuit 21. In ACT13, for example, the processing circuit 21 obtains the product code of a product based on user operation on the POS terminal 2. User operation includes, for example, scanning the product code with the scanner 30. User operation includes selecting the product to be traded using the input device 28. User operation includes scanning the RFID tag with the RFID reader. User operation includes capturing an image of the product with the camera 29. The processing circuit 21 refers to the product master stored in the auxiliary storage device 23 and obtains product information for the product corresponding to the product code. The processing circuit 21 saves the product information as transaction information in the auxiliary storage device 23. Based on user operation, the processing circuit 21 saves the quantity of the registered product as transaction information in the auxiliary storage device 23. The processing circuit 21 may also perform product registration processing in cooperation with the server 1. In this case, the processing circuit 21 obtains product information for the product corresponding to the product code from the server 1. The processing circuit 21 may also obtain information indicating the weight of the product from the server 1.

[0108] The user of POS terminal 2 registers the items they wish to purchase on POS terminal 2 and places them in the shopping cart located in cart 5.

[0109] The processing circuit 21 calculates the total weight of the products (ACT14). ACT14 may also be performed by the weight processing unit 211 implemented by the processing circuit 21. In ACT14, for example, the processing circuit 21 obtains the weight of the products based on the product information of the products registered by the user. The processing circuit 21 obtains product identification information and the quantity of products based on transaction information. The weight processing unit 211 obtains the product information stored in the auxiliary storage device 23. The weight processing unit 211 obtains the weight of the registered products based on the product identification information, the quantity of products, and the weight of the products. If multiple products are registered, for example, the weight processing unit 211 calculates the weight of the registered products. The weight processing unit 211 calculates the total weight of the products by summing up the weights of the products registered by the user. The processing circuit 21 stores the total weight of the products in the auxiliary storage device 23.

[0110] The processing circuit 21 compares the target weight with the total weight of the product (ACT15), similar to ACT4. ACT15 may also be processed by the comparison unit 212 implemented by the processing circuit 21. In ACT15, for example, the processing circuit 21 obtains the target weight from the auxiliary storage device 23. The processing circuit 21 may also obtain the total weight of the product from the auxiliary storage device 23. The processing circuit 21 compares the target weight with the total weight of the product and determines whether the total weight of the product exceeds the target weight.

[0111] Similar to ACT5, the processing circuit 21 displays visualization information on the display device 26 to visualize the comparison result between the target weight and the total weight of the product (ACT16). ACT16 may also be processed by the display processing unit 213 implemented by the processing circuit 21. In ACT16, for example, the processing circuit 21 displays a weight display image Imb on the display device 26. The processing circuit 21 displays at least one of the following on the display device 26: a comparison bar, an icon, and a numerical value of the weight, indicating the comparison result between the target weight and the total weight of the product.

[0112] Similar to ACT6, the processing circuit 21 displays an alert on the display device 26 (ACT17) if the total weight of the products exceeds the target weight. ACT17 may also be processed by the display processing unit 213 implemented by the processing circuit 21. In ACT17, for example, the processing circuit 21 displays a notification image Imc on the display device 26. The processing circuit 21 may also display an alert message on the display device 26 as a pop-up. The alert message indicates that the total weight of the products has exceeded the target weight. The alert message may be, for example, "Total weight has exceeded the target weight," or "Please check the weight of your cart." The alert message may also include information indicating the total weight of the products. The alert may also include, for example, a hide button and a weight change button. The hide button is a button on which an instruction to hide the alert message can be entered. The weight change button is a button on which an instruction to change the target weight can be entered.

[0113] The user selects the hide button to hide the alert message. The processing circuit 21 hides the alert message based on the selection of the hide button. The processing circuit 21 may also display the product registration image on the display device 26.

[0114] When the user wants to change the target weight, they select the weight change button. Based on the selection of the weight change button, the processing circuit 21 receives an instruction to change the target weight. The processing circuit 21 may also display a weight selection image on the display device 26. The user sets the changed target weight according to the weight selection image. For example, the user selects the weight selection button and enters the changed target weight.

[0115] Similar to ACT7, if the processing circuit 21 receives an instruction to change the target weight, it executes the process of ACT11 (ACT18). ACT18 may also be the process performed by the setting unit 210 implemented by the processing circuit 21. In ACT18, for example, the processing circuit 21 updates the target weight based on the user's operation on the POS terminal 2. The processing circuit 21 stores the target weight in the auxiliary storage device 23.

[0116] In this example, POS terminal 2 can set a target weight, obtain the weight of the products, compare the target weight with the total weight of the products, and display visualization information on display device 26 to visualize the comparison results. Therefore, POS terminal 2 can provide the user with a comparison result between the target weight set by the user and the total weight of the products actually purchased. Based on the visualization information, the user can easily compare the target weight with the total weight of the products actually purchased. Based on the visualization information, the user can adjust the total weight of the products purchased by adding or removing items so that it does not exceed the target weight. This prevents the user from purchasing products that are heavier than expected, which would result in a heavier carrying burden than expected. In this way, POS terminal 2 can provide technology that allows users to check the weight of the products they are purchasing.

[0117] Furthermore, POS terminal 2 can obtain the weight of a product based on its product information. Therefore, each time a product is registered, POS terminal 2 can obtain the weight of the product and provide the user with a comparison result between the target weight and the total weight of the registered products. By registering products, users can easily compare the target weight with the total weight of the products they actually purchase based on the visualized information. Based on the visualized information, users can adjust the total weight of the products they purchase during shopping by adding or removing items to ensure that the total weight of the purchased products does not exceed the target weight. This allows users to prevent the purchased products from being heavier than expected, thus avoiding a greater burden during transport. In this way, POS terminal 2 can provide technology that allows users to check the weight of the products they purchase in advance.

[0118] Furthermore, POS terminal 2 can update the target weight at the user's instruction. Therefore, POS terminal 2 can update the target weight at any time at the user's instruction. For example, the user can change the target weight at any time, such as when they want to change the target weight while shopping, or when the total weight of registered items exceeds the target weight. POS terminal 2 can easily compare the updated target weight with the actual total weight of the items to be purchased. Based on the visualized information, the user can adjust the total weight of the items to be purchased by adding or removing items so that it does not exceed the updated target weight. This prevents the user from purchasing items that are heavier than expected, thus preventing the burden of carrying them from becoming unnecessarily heavy. In this way, POS terminal 2 can provide technology that allows users to check the weight of the items they are purchasing.

[0119] Furthermore, POS terminal 2 can display an alert on display device 26 if the total weight of the products exceeds the target weight based on the comparison results. Therefore, POS terminal 2 can provide users with easy access to information about when the total weight of the products exceeds the target weight. Users can easily recognize that the total weight of the products exceeds the target weight based on the alert. For example, based on the alert, users can adjust the total weight of the products they purchase by adding or removing items so that it does not exceed the updated target weight. This prevents users from purchasing products that are heavier than expected, resulting in an unexpectedly heavy load during transport. In this way, POS terminal 2 can provide technology that allows users to check the weight of the products they are purchasing.

[0120] (Other embodiments) In the embodiment described above, the case in which the user of POS terminal 2 sets the target weight before shopping was explained as an example, but it is not limited to this. The user of POS terminal 2 may set the target weight at any time after shopping has started. In this case, POS terminal 2 performs the processing of ACT1 in Figure 5 and ACT11 in Figure 9 based on the setting instruction input from the user. For example, the user of POS terminal 2 selects the weight setting button displayed on the display device 26 by touch input or the like at any time after shopping has started. Based on the acquisition of the setting instruction from the user, the processing circuit 21 of POS terminal 2 displays the weight selection image Ima on the display device 26. The processing circuit 21 sets the target weight based on the target weight input by the user.

[0121] In the embodiment described above, the target weight was set by user operation, but this is not limited to this. For example, the POS terminal 2 may set the target weight based on the user's past transaction history information. In this case, the server 1 stores the user's past transaction history information. The transaction history information includes user identification information, product information of purchased items, and information indicating the target weight. User identification information is unique identification information assigned to each user to identify them individually. User identification information is, for example, a user ID. The transaction history information may also include information indicating the total weight of purchased items. Before shopping begins, the POS terminal 2 obtains the user ID based on information such as a membership card. For example, the user has the membership card read by a card reader or the like. The POS terminal 2 obtains the user ID stored on the membership card. Note that the user of the POS terminal 2 may read the user ID after starting a dedicated application program or via a check-in device. The POS terminal 2 outputs the user ID to the server 1 and obtains the user's past transaction history information corresponding to the user ID. Based on the past transaction history information, the POS terminal 2 obtains information indicating the target weight that was set in the past. POS terminal 2 may set a target weight based on a previously set target weight, for example. POS terminal 2 may display previously set target weights on the weight selection image. The user may select a previously set target weight as their target weight on the weight selection image.

[0122] In the above-described embodiment, the case in which visualization information is displayed on the display device 26 of the POS terminal 2 was explained as an example, but it is not limited to this. The POS terminal 2 may also display the visualization information on another device. The other device is a device not mounted on the cart. The other device is, for example, a user's tablet or smartphone. The other device may also be a device installed in the store. The POS terminal 2 outputs data for displaying the visualization information to the other device. The other device acquires data for displaying the visualization information and displays it on its display device.

[0123] In the embodiments described above, a POS terminal 2 installed on a shopping cart was used as an example, but the invention is not limited to this. At least some of the functions of the POS terminal 2 may be implemented in a so-called smartphone POS terminal, which performs product registration using a tablet or smartphone. A smartphone POS terminal is an example of an information processing device, similar to the POS terminal 2.

[0124] POS terminal 2 may be a face-to-face POS terminal where a store employee performs operations from product registration to payment. At least some of the functions of POS terminal 2 may be implemented in a so-called semi-self-service product registration device where a store employee registers the products and the customer makes the payment. The semi-self-service product registration device is an example of an information processing device, similar to POS terminal 2.

[0125] A so-called fully self-service POS terminal, where customers perform operations from registering purchased items to payment, may be made capable of implementing at least some of the functions of POS terminal 2. A fully self-service POS terminal is an example of an information processing device, similar to POS terminal 2.

[0126] If POS terminal 2 is a face-to-face POS terminal, a semi-self-service product registration device, or a fully self-service POS terminal, POS terminal 2 may acquire weight data from a weight sensor installed on a display stand. For example, POS terminal 2 may be connected to the weight sensor via a cable so that they can communicate with each other. POS terminal 2 may acquire weight data detected by the weight sensor. POS terminal 2 may acquire the weight of the product based on the weight data. POS terminal 2 may acquire the weight of the product each time the weight is detected by the weight sensor. POS terminal 2 may display visualization information on its display device 26 that visualizes the comparison result between the product's weight and the target weight.

[0127] The information processing terminal may be implemented as a single electronic device, such as POS terminal 2, or as multiple electronic devices with distributed functions.

[0128] The embodiments described above may be applied to methods performed by the device. The embodiments described above may be applied to a program that can cause the device's computer to perform each function. The embodiments described above may be applied to a recording medium that stores the program.

[0129] Each of the one or more circuits that make up a processing circuit performs one or more of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of a single circuit, the single circuit performs all of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of multiple circuits, each of the multiple circuits performs some of the multiple processes. Some of the multiple processes may be one of the multiple processes, or two or more of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of multiple circuits, the multiple circuits may be contained in a single device, or they may be distributed across multiple devices.

[0130] The program may be transferred while stored in the device according to the embodiment, or it may be transferred without being stored in the device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or it may be transferred while recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium is a non-temporary tangible medium. The recording medium is a computer-readable medium. The recording medium can be any medium that is capable of storing a program and is readable by a computer, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, and its form is not limited.

[0131] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents.

[0132] Some of the embodiments described above may be expressed as follows: (1) A setting unit for setting the target weight, A weight acquisition unit that acquires the weight of the product, A comparison unit that compares the target weight with the total weight of the product, A display processing unit that displays visualization information for visualizing the comparison results from the comparison unit on a display unit, An information processing terminal equipped with the following features.

[0133] (2) The weight acquisition unit acquires the weight of the product based on the weight detection result of the product placed in the cart. (1) The information processing terminal described above.

[0134] (3) The weight acquisition unit acquires the weight of the product based on the product information of the product. (1) The information processing terminal described above.

[0135] (4) The setting unit updates the target weight according to the user's instructions. (1) The information processing terminal described above.

[0136] (5) The display processing unit displays an alert on the display unit if the total weight of the product exceeds the target weight. (1) The information processing terminal described above.

[0137] (6) To the computer, A function to set a target weight, A function to obtain the weight of the product, A function to compare the target weight with the total weight of the product, A function to display visualization information on the display unit to visualize the comparison results, An information processing program capable of executing [the specified action]. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0138] 1...Server, 2...POS terminal, 3...Sensor, 5...Cart, 21...Processing circuit, 22...Main memory, 23...Auxiliary storage device, 24...Communication interface, 25...Connection interface, 26...Display device, 27...Speaker, 28...Input device, 29...Camera, 30...Scanner, 100...Information processing system, 210...Setting unit, 211...Weight processing unit, 212...Comparison unit, 213...Display processing unit, 214...Product registration processing unit, Ara...Weight selection button display area, Arb...Comparison bar display area, Arc...Icon display area, Ard...Weight display area, Are...Comparison bar display area, Arf...Icon display area, Arg...Weight display area, Ba...Hide button, Bb...Weight change button, Ima...Weight selection image, Imb...Weight display image, Imc...Notification image, Ma...Message, Mb...Alert message.

Claims

1. A setting unit for setting the target weight, A weight acquisition unit that acquires the weight of the product, A comparison unit that compares the target weight with the total weight of the product, A display processing unit that displays visualization information for visualizing the comparison results from the comparison unit on a display unit, An information processing terminal equipped with the following features.

2. The weight acquisition unit acquires the weight of the items placed in the cart based on the weight detection result of the items placed in the cart. The information processing terminal according to claim 1.

3. The weight acquisition unit acquires the weight of the product based on the product information of the product. The information processing terminal according to claim 1.

4. The setting unit updates the target weight according to the user's instructions. The information processing terminal according to claim 1.

5. The display processing unit displays an alert on the display unit if the total weight of the product exceeds the target weight. The information processing terminal according to claim 1.

6. On the computer, A function to set a target weight, A function to obtain the weight of the product, A function to compare the target weight with the total weight of the product, A function to display visualization information on the display unit to visualize the comparison results, An information processing program capable of executing [the specified action].

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