Shopping cart product registration device, monitoring device, and program

Abstract

The present invention provides a product registration device, monitoring device, and program for shopping carts that allow customers to place items other than products into the shopping basket at their own discretion. [Solution] The shopping cart terminal includes a first reception unit that receives a declaration from the customer to start shopping, an identification information acquisition unit that acquires identification information of the customer's desired purchases, a product registration unit that registers products having the acquired identification information, a weight measurement unit that measures the total weight of the contents of the shopping basket (storage unit) of the shopping cart, an image capture unit that takes an image of the inside of the storage unit, an information output unit that outputs the product identification information, the total weight of the contents, and the image of the inside of the storage unit to a monitoring device, associated with the time they were acquired, a monitoring result acquisition unit that acquires a determination result from the monitoring device as to whether the items stored in the storage unit are products, and a second reception unit that receives a declaration from the customer that items other than products have been stored if the items stored in the storage unit are not products.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a product registration device for a shopping cart, a monitoring device, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a shopping cart has been proposed that is equipped with a product registration device on the shopping cart, allowing a customer to register the products they purchase while shopping at a store.

[0003] For such a shopping cart, in order to reduce the physical burden on the customer, a function that allows personal belongings of the customer, such as a wallet or a personal bag, to be stored in the shopping basket at any timing has been desired.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a product registration device for a shopping cart, a monitoring device, and a program that allow a customer to store articles other than products in the shopping basket at a free timing.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The shopping cart product registration device of this embodiment comprises a first reception unit, an identification information acquisition unit, a product registration unit, a weight measurement unit, an image capture unit, an information output unit, a monitoring result acquisition unit, and a second reception unit. The first reception unit receives a declaration that the customer intends to start shopping using the shopping cart. The identification information acquisition unit acquires identification information that identifies the product the customer wishes to purchase using a scanner installed in the shopping cart. The product registration unit registers the product that has the identification information acquired by the identification information acquisition unit. The weight measurement unit measures the total weight of the items stored in the storage compartment of the shopping cart. The image capture unit takes an image of the inside of the storage compartment. The information output unit outputs the identification information acquired by the identification information acquisition unit, the time the identification information was acquired, the total weight of the items measured by the weight measurement unit, the time the total weight was measured, the image taken by the image capture unit, and the time the image was taken, in association with the identification information that identifies itself, to a monitoring device that monitors whether the items stored in the storage compartment are products. The monitoring result acquisition unit obtains the determination result from the monitoring device as to whether the items stored in the storage unit are goods. The second reception unit receives a declaration from the customer that items other than goods have been stored in the storage unit, when the monitoring result acquisition unit has determined that the items stored in the storage unit are not goods.

[0006] Furthermore, the monitoring device of the embodiment includes an information acquisition unit, a first determination unit, a second determination unit, a third determination unit, and a determination result output unit. The information acquisition unit acquires product identification information acquired by a scanner installed on a shopping cart product registration device provided on the shopping cart, the time the identification information was acquired, the total weight measured by a weight measuring unit installed on the shopping cart that measures the total weight of articles stored in a storage compartment for storing products, the time the total weight was measured, and images taken of the inside of the storage compartment at least for a predetermined time before and after the total weight changes, and the time the images were acquired, in association with identification information that identifies the shopping cart product registration device. The first determination unit determines whether an article has been stored in the storage compartment based on the change in total weight. The second determination unit determines whether the article stored in the storage compartment is a product based on the image taken immediately before the total weight increases, when the first determination unit determines that an article has been stored in the storage compartment. The third determination unit determines whether product identification information has been acquired when the second determination unit determines that the item stored in the storage compartment is a product. The determination result output unit outputs to the shopping cart product registration device at least the determination result of whether the item stored in the storage compartment is a product, and, if the item stored in the storage compartment is a product, the determination result of whether the product identification information has been acquired. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a system configuration diagram showing an example of the system configuration of the shopping monitoring system according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an external view showing an example of a shopping cart included in the shopping monitoring system of the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a hardware block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a shopping cart included in the shopping monitoring system of the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a hardware block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the monitoring device included in the shopping monitoring system of the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of the data structure of the product master stored by the monitoring device. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of the data structure of the item storage information file acquired by the monitoring device from the cart terminal. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is the first diagram showing an example of the screen displayed on the shopping cart terminal's display when shopping begins. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is the second figure, showing an example of the screen displayed on the shopping cart terminal's display when shopping begins. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of a screen displayed on the shopping cart terminal's screen when the items placed in the shopping cart are not products. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an example of the screen displayed on the shopping cart terminal when an item placed in the shopping cart is a product and that product has not yet been scanned. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the shopping monitoring system according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows an example of the processing flow performed by a shopping cart terminal when shopping begins. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows an example of the processing flow performed by a shopping cart terminal during shopping. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows an example of the processing flow performed by the monitoring terminal while shopping. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0009] The following describes an embodiment of the shopping monitoring system 10 of this disclosure with reference to the drawings.

[0010] (Outline configuration of the shopping monitoring system) The schematic configuration of the shopping monitoring system 10 of the embodiment will be explained using Figure 1. Figure 1 is a system configuration diagram showing an example of the system configuration of the shopping monitoring system of the embodiment.

[0011] The shopping monitoring system 10 monitors whether a customer places items other than products into the shopping basket 16 (see Figure 2) of the shopping cart 20 while shopping in the store. The shopping monitoring system 10 also monitors whether products are placed into the shopping basket 16 without reading (scanning) their identification information (product ID, product code). If the shopping monitoring system 10 determines that items other than products have been placed into the shopping basket 16, it receives a notification from the customer that items other than products have been placed in the basket. Furthermore, if the shopping monitoring system 10 determines that unscanned products have been placed into the shopping basket 16, it notifies the customer that the products will be scanned.

[0012] The shopping monitoring system 10 comprises a shopping cart 20, a monitoring device 40 connected to each other by an in-store network 11, a checkout machine 13, a store server 14, and a wireless LAN router 12.

[0013] The shopping cart 20 is used in stores for customers to register and store items they wish to purchase while pushing it. The shopping cart 20 is equipped with a cart terminal 30. The shopping cart 20 also includes peripheral devices connected to the cart terminal 30, namely a display 21, a touch panel 22, a fixed scanner 23, a handheld scanner 24, a weight sensor 25, a camera 26, and a battery 27.

[0014] The cart terminal 30 stores identification information (e.g., product ID or product code) of the products the customer wishes to purchase. The cart terminal 30 also notifies the customer when items other than products or products for which identification information has not been acquired (unscanned products) are placed in the shopping cart 20. Furthermore, the cart terminal 30 communicates with the checkout machine 13 to output the product information registered by the customer to the checkout machine 13.

[0015] Regarding various peripheral devices included in the shopping cart 20, details will be described later (see FIG. 2).

[0016] The monitoring device 40 communicates with the cart terminal 30 via the wireless LAN router 12. The monitoring device 40 acquires, from the cart terminal 30, identification information (cart terminal ID) that uniquely identifies the cart terminal 30 and article information stored in the shopping basket 16 (see FIG. 2) placed on the shopping cart 20. Note that the article information stored in the shopping basket 16 includes product scan information, an image captured by the camera 26, and the weight measured by the weight sensor 25. Details of the article information will be described later (see FIG. 6). Further, the monitoring device 40 determines, based on the article accommodation information acquired from the cart terminal 30, whether articles other than products are stored in the shopping basket 16 and whether products without identification information, i.e., unscanned products, are stored in the shopping basket 16. Further, when the monitoring device 40 determines that articles other than products are stored in the shopping basket 16, it instructs the corresponding cart terminal 30 to confirm that articles other than products are stored. Further, when the monitoring device 40 determines that unscanned products are stored in the shopping basket 16, it notifies the corresponding cart terminal 30 to take out the products from the shopping basket 16 and acquire identification information, i.e., to scan the products. <G

[0017] The cash register 13 calculates the total amount of products registered by the customer by communicating with the cart terminal 30 via the wireless LAN router 12. Further, the cash register 13 accepts payment for the total amount of products according to the payment method (cash payment, cashless payment) specified by the customer.

[0018] The store server 14 monitors the operating states of each part by communicating with the cart terminal 30, the monitoring device 40, and the cash register 13 with each other. Further, the store server 14 acquires information related to settlement (sales information) from the cash register 13. Further, the store server 14 appropriately distributes the latest version of the product master, which is a master file storing product information, to the cart terminal 30 and the monitoring device 40.

[0019] Note that the system configuration of the shopping monitoring system 10 is not limited to the example in FIG. 1, and the cart terminal 30 may have the functions of the monitoring device 40 incorporated therein.

[0020] (Schematic Configuration of Shopping Cart) Using FIG. 2, the schematic configuration of the shopping cart 20 included in the shopping monitoring system 10 will be described. FIG. 2 is an external view showing an example of the shopping cart included in the shopping monitoring system of the embodiment.

[0021] The shopping cart 20 is used in the store to register and store the products that the customer wishes to purchase while pushing it around. The shopping cart 20 includes a cart terminal 30, a display 21, a touch panel 22, a fixed scanner 23, a hand scanner 24, a weight sensor 25, a camera 26, a battery 27, and a shopping basket 16.

[0022] The cart terminal 30 stores the identification information (e.g., product ID or product code) of the products registered by the customer. Also, when the customer stores items other than products or un-scanned products in the shopping basket 16, the cart terminal 30 notifies the customer. Further, the cart terminal 30 outputs the product information registered by the customer to the cash register 13 by communicating with the cash register 13.

[0023] The display 21 outputs various information related to product registration and notification information when the customer stores items other than products or un-scanned products in the shopping basket 16 to the customer. The display 21 is, for example, a liquid crystal panel, an organic EL panel, or the like.

[0024] The touch panel 22 is installed in a state laminated on the display 21 and acquires operation information for various operation buttons displayed on the display 21. Specifically, the touch panel 22 acquires from the customer an instruction to start shopping, a declaration that an item other than a product (e.g., a wallet or an eco-bag that is the customer's personal item) is stored in the shopping basket 16, and the like.

[0025] The fixed scanner 23 reads a barcode or other code symbol held over the reading window 231 to obtain identification information (e.g., product ID or product code) of the product the customer wishes to purchase. The fixed scanner 23 also outputs the acquired product identification information to the cart terminal 30. The fixed scanner 23 is an example of a scanner in this disclosure.

[0026] The handheld scanner 24, when held by the customer, reads barcodes and other code symbols illuminated by its emitted slit-shaped reading light, thereby acquiring identification information (e.g., product ID or product code) of the products the customer wishes to purchase. The handheld scanner 24 also outputs the acquired product identification information to the cart terminal 30. In particular, the handheld scanner 24 is used to read identification information of heavy objects where it is difficult to hold the code symbol over the fixed scanner 23. The handheld scanner 24 is an example of a scanner in this disclosure.

[0027] The weight sensor 25 is installed, for example, on the bottom surface of the basket support section 28 on which the shopping basket 16 is placed, and measures the weight of the items contained in the shopping basket 16. The weight sensor 25 is, for example, a strain gauge.

[0028] Camera 26 is installed, for example, on the back side of the reading window 231 of the fixed scanner 23 to photograph the inside of the shopping basket 16. Camera 26 also outputs the captured image to the cart terminal 30.

[0029] The battery 27 supplies power to the cart terminal 30, the display 21, the touch panel 22, the fixed scanner 23, the handheld scanner 24, the weight sensor 25, and the camera 26.

[0030] The cart terminal 30 uses its built-in fixed scanner 23 or handheld scanner 24 to read (scan) the code symbol (e.g., barcode) on which unique identification information (e.g., product ID or product code) that identifies the product the customer wishes to purchase is registered. The cart terminal 30 performs a product registration process to register the product by comparing the read identification information with the product master 322 (see Figure 3) stored in it. The customer places the scanned product into the shopping basket 16 placed on the shopping cart 20 and continues shopping. The cart terminal 30 is an example of a product registration device for a shopping cart in this disclosure. The shopping basket 16 is an example of a storage unit in this disclosure.

[0031] After the customer places all the items they wish to purchase into the shopping cart 16, they proceed to the checkout machine 13 to complete the payment process. At this time, the cart terminal 30 transmits product registration information, including the identification information of the registered items, to the checkout machine 13. Upon receiving the product registration information, the checkout machine 13 calculates the total price of the items and displays the payment amount to the customer. The customer then pays for the items using their preferred payment method, such as cash or cashless payment, and the shopping is complete.

[0032] As shown in Figure 2, the shopping cart 20 also has a basket support section 29 on the lower level for placing a shopping basket 16. The shopping monitoring system 10 further includes a weight sensor (not shown) that measures the weight of the items contained in the shopping basket 16 placed on the lower basket support section 29, and a camera (not shown) that observes the inside of the shopping basket 16 placed on the lower basket support section 29, and operates similarly even when items are placed in the shopping basket 16 placed on the lower basket support section 29. For the sake of simplicity, it will be assumed that items are placed only in the shopping basket 16 placed on the upper basket support section 28.

[0033] (Shopping cart hardware configuration) The hardware configuration of the shopping cart 20 will be explained using Figure 3. Figure 3 is a hardware block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a shopping cart included in the shopping monitoring system of this embodiment.

[0034] The cart terminal 30 of the shopping cart 20 has a configuration in which a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, a peripheral device controller 34, and a communication controller 35 are connected to each other by an internal bus 33.

[0035] The control unit 31 controls the overall operation of the cart terminal 30. The control unit 31 comprises a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 311, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 312, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 313. The CPU 311 connects to the ROM 312 and the RAM 313 via internal buses such as an address bus and a data bus. The CPU 311 loads various programs stored in the ROM 312 and the memory unit 32 into the RAM 313. The CPU 311 controls the operation of the cart terminal 30 by operating according to the various programs loaded into the RAM 313. In other words, the control unit 31 has the configuration of a typical computer.

[0036] The storage unit 32 is a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive). Alternatively, the storage unit 32 may be a non-volatile memory such as flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off. The storage unit 32 stores the control program 321, the product master 322, and the product registration file 323.

[0037] The control program 321 is a program that controls the overall operation of the cart terminal 30. The control program 321 may be provided stored in the storage unit 32, or it may be provided as an installable or executable file recorded on a computer-readable non-temporary recording medium such as a CD-ROM, flexible disk (FD), CD-R, or DVD. The control program 321 may also be provided by storing it on a computer connected to a network and downloading it via the network. Furthermore, the control program 321 may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0038] The product master 322 is a master file that stores product information such as the product name and price of the products to be sold. The product master 322 stores the product name, unit price, product weight, etc., associated with identification information that uniquely identifies the product, such as a product ID or product code. Since the contents of the product master are updated as needed, the cart terminal 30 keeps the contents of the product master 322 up to date by, for example, obtaining the latest product master from the store server 14 via the communication controller 35.

[0039] Product registration file 323 is a file that stores registered product information (e.g., product ID, product name, quantity, unit price, etc.) and the total purchase amount, associated with a transaction code that identifies a single transaction.

[0040] The control unit 31 is connected to various peripheral devices, including the display 21, touch panel 22, fixed scanner 23, hand scanner 24, weight sensor 25, camera 26, and battery 27, via the peripheral device controller 34. Since the general characteristics of each peripheral device have been described above, further explanation will be omitted.

[0041] Furthermore, the control unit 31 receives and exchanges the aforementioned various types of information between the monitoring device 40, the payment machine 13, and the store server 14 via the communication controller 35.

[0042] (Hardware configuration of the monitoring device) The hardware configuration of the monitoring device 40 will be explained using Figure 4. Figure 4 is a hardware block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the monitoring device included in the shopping monitoring system of the embodiment.

[0043] The monitoring device 40 has a configuration in which a control unit 41, a storage unit 42, and a communication controller 44 are connected to each other by an internal bus 43.

[0044] The control unit 41 controls the overall operation of the monitoring device 40. The control unit 41 comprises a CPU 411, a ROM 412, and a RAM 413. The CPU 411 connects to the ROM 412 and the RAM 413 via internal buses such as an address bus and a data bus. The CPU 411 loads various programs stored in the ROM 412 and the memory unit 42 into the RAM 413. The CPU 411 controls the operation of the monitoring device 40 by operating according to the various programs loaded into the RAM 413. In other words, the control unit 41 has the configuration of a typical computer.

[0045] The storage unit 42 is a storage device such as an HDD or SSD. Alternatively, the storage unit 42 may be a non-volatile memory such as flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off. The storage unit 42 stores the control program 421, the product master 422, and the item storage information file 423.

[0046] The control program 421 is a program that controls the overall operation of the monitoring device 40. The control program 421 may be provided stored in the storage unit 42, or it may be provided as an installable or executable file recorded on a computer-readable non-temporary recording medium such as a CD-ROM, flexible disk (FD), CD-R, or DVD. The control program 421 may also be provided by storing it on a computer connected to a network and downloading it via the network. Furthermore, the control program 421 may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0047] The product master 422 is a master file that stores information such as the product name, weight, and appearance image of the products to be sold. The internal structure of the product master 422 will be described in detail later (see Figure 5). Since the contents of the product master are updated as needed, the monitoring device 40 keeps the contents of the product master 422 up to date by, for example, obtaining the latest product master from the store server 14 via the communication controller 44.

[0048] The item storage information file 423 is a file that stores information about the items stored in the shopping basket 16, output from the cart terminal 30, associated with the time. The internal structure of the item storage information file 423 will be described in detail later (see Figure 6).

[0049] The control unit 41 receives and exchanges the aforementioned various types of information between the cart terminal 30 and the store server 14 via the communication controller 44.

[0050] (Data structure of the product master) Figure 5 illustrates the data structure of the product master 422 stored in the monitoring device 40. Figure 5 shows an example of the data structure of the product master stored in the monitoring device.

[0051] Product master 422 stores product information associated with the product ID (product code). Product information includes the product name, weight, and appearance image.

[0052] The product name is the name of the product.

[0053] The weight is the weight of the product.

[0054] The exterior image is an image of the product's exterior. Note that the exterior image is stored as multiple images of a single product taken from different angles.

[0055] The product master 322 (see Figure 3) stored in the cart terminal 30 has a different structure from the product master 422. Although not shown in the diagram, the product master 322 stores product names, unit prices, etc., in association with product IDs (product codes). In other words, the product master 322 stores the information necessary to calculate the purchase price of the product. On the other hand, the product master 422 stores the information necessary to recognize the product from an image of the product. Furthermore, the product master 422 stores the information necessary to determine whether the product has been placed in the shopping basket 16 based on the change in the weight of the shopping basket 16.

[0056] (Structure of the item storage information file) Figure 6 illustrates the data structure of the item storage information file 423. Figure 6 shows an example of the data structure of the item storage information file acquired by the monitoring device from the cart terminal.

[0057] The item storage information file 423 stores item storage information in association with a cart terminal ID that uniquely identifies the cart terminal 30. The item storage information includes scan information, captured images, and weight information.

[0058] The scan information is information related to the product ID read by the fixed scanner 23 or the handheld scanner 24. The scan information includes the scan time and the acquired product ID.

[0059] The scan time is the time when the fixed scanner 23 or the handheld scanner 24 read the product ID.

[0060] The retrieved product ID is the product ID that was read.

[0061] The captured image is information related to the image taken by camera 26. The captured image includes the time of capture and the captured image.

[0062] The shooting time is the time the image was taken.

[0063] The captured image is image information captured by camera 26.

[0064] The weight information refers to the weight of the shopping cart measured by the weight sensor 25. The weight information includes the measurement time and the measured weight.

[0065] The measurement time is the time when the weight sensor 25 measured the total weight of the contents of the shopping basket 16.

[0066] The measured weight is the total weight of the contents of the shopping basket 16 as measured by the weight sensor 25.

[0067] The cart terminal 30 outputs scan information, image information, and weight information to the monitoring device 40 independently. The monitoring device 40 organizes the acquired scan information, image information, and weight information in the form shown in Figure 6 to generate an item storage information file 423. At this time, in order to reduce the amount of data in the item storage information file 423, it is desirable for the monitoring device 40 to identify the time t in which the total weight of the items in the shopping basket 16 increased or decreased by more than a predetermined value, and to store the scan information, image information, and weight information for a predetermined time range including time t. Alternatively, when the cart terminal 30 outputs various information to the monitoring device 40, it may output scan information, image information, and weight information to the monitoring device 40 only for a predetermined time range including the time t in which the total weight of the items in the shopping basket 16 increased or decreased by more than a predetermined value.

[0068] (Example of a screen displayed on the shopping cart terminal at the start of shopping) Figures 7 and 8 illustrate examples of screens displayed on the display 21 of the cart terminal 30 when shopping begins. Figure 7 is the first example of a screen displayed on the cart terminal's display when shopping begins. Figure 8 is the second example of a screen displayed on the cart terminal's display when shopping begins.

[0069] When a customer begins shopping, the shopping start screen 81 shown in Figure 7 pops up on the display 21 of the cart terminal 30.

[0070] The shopping start screen 81 includes a message 82 and a shopping start button 83.

[0071] Message 82 is a notification instructing the user to press the shopping start button 83, such as "Please press this button when you start shopping."

[0072] The shopping start button 83 is an operator that signals the start of shopping. When the shopping start button 83 is pressed, the cart terminal 30 starts the operation of the fixed scanner 23 and the hand scanner 24. Also, when the shopping start button 83 is pressed, the weight sensor 25 measures the total weight of the items contained in the shopping basket 16.

[0073] At this time, if the weight of the items contained in the shopping basket 16 is not zero, the cart terminal 30 will display the contents confirmation screen 84 shown in Figure 8 as a pop-up on the display 21.

[0074] The contents confirmation screen 84 includes a message 85, a yes button 86, and a no button 87.

[0075] Message 85 is a notification prompting the customer to check the contents of the shopping cart 16, such as, "Are there any items other than products in your cart?"

[0076] The "Yes" button 86 is an operator that indicates that there are items other than products in the shopping basket 16. When the "Yes" button 86 is pressed, the cart terminal 30 corrects the weight of the shopping basket 16 at that time to 0.

[0077] The No button 87 is an operator that indicates that there are no items other than products in the shopping basket 16, or in other words, that products are already placed in the shopping basket 16 at the start of shopping. When the No button 87 is pressed, the cart terminal 30 instructs the customer, for example, to take out the products and scan them.

[0078] (Example of a screen displayed on the shopping cart terminal's display) Figures 9 and 10 illustrate examples of screens displayed on the cart terminal 30's display 21 during shopping. Figure 9 shows an example of a screen displayed on the cart terminal's display when the items in the shopping basket are not products. Figure 10 shows an example of a screen displayed on the cart terminal's display when the items in the shopping basket are products, but those products have not yet been scanned.

[0079] After shopping has started, if it is detected that items have been placed in the shopping basket 16 without being scanned, the cart terminal 30 will display the contents confirmation screen 91 shown in Figure 9 as a pop-up on the display 21.

[0080] Furthermore, the presence of items in the shopping basket 16 is detected at least by an increase in the total weight of the contents of the shopping basket 16, as measured by the weight sensor 25, to a predetermined value or higher.

[0081] The contents confirmation screen 91 includes a message 92, a yes button 93, and a no button 94.

[0082] Message 92 is a notification prompting the customer to check the contents of the shopping cart 16, such as, "Have you put anything other than products in your cart?"

[0083] The "Yes" button 93 is an operator used to declare that items other than products have been placed in the shopping basket 16. When the "Yes" button 93 is pressed, the cart terminal 30 corrects the total weight of the items in the shopping basket 16 to the total weight immediately before the items other than products were placed in it.

[0084] The No button 94 is an operator used to indicate that an item has been placed in the shopping basket 16. When the No button 94 is pressed, the cart terminal 30 displays the item scan instruction screen 95 shown in Figure 10 as a pop-up on the display 21.

[0085] The product scan instruction screen 95 includes a message 96 and an OK button 97.

[0086] Message 96 is a notification instructing you to scan an item, such as, "It appears that an unscanned item has been placed in your possession. Please remove it and scan it."

[0087] The OK button 97 is an operator used to indicate that the user has acknowledged the instruction to scan the product. When the OK button 97 is pressed, the cart terminal 30 determines whether the weight of the contents of the shopping basket 16, as measured by the weight sensor 25, has decreased by the amount of the corresponding product. If it is determined that the weight of the contents of the shopping basket 16 has not decreased by the amount of the corresponding product, the cart terminal 30 notifies the display 21 that the user will not engage in fraudulent activity.

[0088] Furthermore, a personal belongings storage button (not shown) may be provided on the display 21 so that customers can place their personal belongings into the shopping basket 16 at any time. In this case, the customer places their personal belongings into the shopping basket 16 after pressing the personal belongings storage button. The cart terminal 30 then determines that the increase in the measurement result of the weight sensor 25 is the weight of the customer's personal belongings and performs a correction by subtracting the weight of the customer's personal belongings from the total weight of the contents of the shopping basket 16.

[0089] (Functional configuration of the shopping monitoring system) The functional configuration of the shopping monitoring system 10 will be explained using Figure 11. Figure 11 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the shopping monitoring system according to the embodiment.

[0090] (Functional configuration of the shopping cart terminal) The control unit 31 of the cart terminal 30 operates by loading the control program 321 into the RAM 313, thereby realizing the following functional units as shown in Figure 11: the shopping start instruction acquisition unit 51, the product information acquisition unit 52, the product registration unit 53, the weight measurement unit 54, the image capture unit 55, the item storage information output unit 56, the judgment result acquisition unit 57, the notification unit 58, the item storage declaration acceptance unit 59, the weight correction unit 60, and the product registration information output unit 61. Some or all of these functional parts may be realized by dedicated hardware.

[0091] The shopping start instruction acquisition unit 51 receives a declaration from the customer that they wish to start shopping using the shopping cart 20. Specifically, the shopping start instruction acquisition unit 51 determines that it has received a declaration to start shopping when it detects that the shopping start button 83 has been pressed on the shopping start screen 81 (see Figure 7) displayed on the display 21. In addition, when shopping is started using the shopping cart 20, if the total weight of the items measured by the weight measurement unit 54 is not zero, the shopping start instruction acquisition unit 51 receives a declaration that items other than products are contained in the shopping basket 16. Specifically, the shopping start instruction acquisition unit 51 determines that it has received a declaration that items other than products are contained in the shopping basket 16 when it detects that the yes button 86 has been pressed on the contents confirmation screen 84 (see Figure 8) displayed on the display 21. Note that the shopping start instruction acquisition unit 51 is an example of the first receiving unit in this disclosure.

[0092] The product information acquisition unit 52 acquires identification information that uniquely identifies the product the customer wishes to purchase by scanning the product code symbol with a fixed scanner 23 or handheld scanner 24 installed on the shopping cart 20. The product information acquisition unit 52 is an example of an identification information acquisition unit in this disclosure.

[0093] The product registration unit 53 registers products that have identification information acquired by the product information acquisition unit 52. Specifically, the product registration unit 53 generates a product registration file 323 (see Figure 3) in which product information including the identification information is registered, associated with a transaction code that identifies a single transaction. The product registration unit 53 also receives instructions from the customer that the registration of all products has been completed. Specifically, the product registration unit 53 determines that product registration is complete when it detects that a registration completion button (not shown) displayed on the display 21 has been pressed.

[0094] The weight measurement unit 54 measures the total weight of the contents of the shopping basket 16 placed on the shopping cart 20 using a weight sensor 25. The weight measurement unit 54 also checks whether a registered product has been placed in the shopping basket 16 by measuring the change in the total weight of the contents of the shopping basket 16 after the product has been scanned by the fixed scanner 23 or the hand scanner 24. At this time, the weight measurement unit 54 reads the weight of the scanned product from the product master 322 and determines that the registered product has been placed in the shopping basket 16 if the increase in the total weight of the contents of the shopping basket 16 matches the weight of the scanned product. In addition, if a customer cancels a product that has been registered, the weight measurement unit 54 checks whether the total weight of the contents of the shopping basket 16 has decreased by the weight of the canceled product.

[0095] The image capture unit 55 acquires the image of the inside of the shopping basket 16 taken by the camera 26.

[0096] The item storage information output unit 56 outputs to the monitoring device 40, which monitors whether the items stored in the shopping basket 16 are products, the item storage information output unit 56, which associates the item identification information acquired by the product information acquisition unit 52, the time the identification information was acquired, the total weight of the items measured by the weight measurement unit 54, the time the total weight was measured, the image captured by the image capture unit 55, and the time the image was captured, with identification information that uniquely identifies the cart terminal 30. The item storage information output unit 56 is an example of an information output unit in this disclosure.

[0097] The determination result acquisition unit 57 acquires from the monitoring device 40 the determination result of whether the items placed in the shopping basket 16 are products, the determination result of whether unscanned products are placed in the shopping basket 16, and the determination result of whether the products placed in the shopping basket 16 have been scanned. The determination result acquisition unit 57 is an example of a monitoring result acquisition unit in this disclosure.

[0098] The notification unit 58, when the determination result acquisition unit 57 has determined that the items placed in the shopping basket 16 are merchandise, and when the merchandise information acquisition unit 52 has not acquired the identification information of the merchandise before the merchandise was placed in the basket, instructs the customer to remove the merchandise from the shopping basket 16 and scan it to acquire the identification information. Furthermore, if the total weight of the items in the shopping basket 16 does not decrease after the notification unit 58 has notified the customer to remove the merchandise from the shopping basket 16 and scan it, the notification unit 58 will also notify the customer to remove the merchandise from the shopping basket 16 and scan it to acquire the identification information.

[0099] The item storage declaration reception unit 59 receives a declaration from the customer that items other than merchandise have been stored in the shopping basket 16 when the determination result acquisition unit 57 has obtained a determination result that the items stored in the shopping basket 16 are not merchandise. Specifically, the item storage declaration reception unit 59 determines that a declaration that items other than merchandise have been stored has been received when it detects that the "Yes" button 93 has been pressed on the stored items confirmation screen 91 (see Figure 9) displayed on the display 21. The item storage declaration reception unit 59 is an example of the second reception unit in this disclosure.

[0100] The weight correction unit 60 corrects the total weight of the items in the shopping basket 16 to the total weight before the non-product items were added, when the item storage declaration reception unit 59 receives a declaration that items other than products have been placed in the shopping basket 16. In addition, the weight correction unit 60 corrects the total weight of the items in the shopping basket 16 to 0 when the declaration that items other than products have been placed in the shopping basket 16 is received at the start of shopping.

[0101] The product registration information output unit 61 outputs the product registration file 323 to the payment machine 13.

[0102] (Functional configuration of the monitoring device) The control unit 41 of the monitoring device 40 deploys the control program 421 to the RAM 413 and operates it to realize the following functional units as shown in Figure 11: the item storage information acquisition unit 71, the item storage determination unit 72, the product storage determination unit 73, the unscanned product storage determination unit 74, and the determination result output unit 75. Some or all of these functional parts may be realized by dedicated hardware.

[0103] The item storage information acquisition unit 71 acquires, in association with the identification information that identifies the cart terminal 30, the following: product identification information acquired by a fixed scanner 23 or hand scanner 24 installed on the cart terminal 30 of the shopping cart 20, the time the identification information was acquired, the total weight measured by a weight sensor 25 installed on the shopping cart 20 that measures the total weight of the items stored in the shopping basket 16 that holds the items, the time the total weight was measured, and images taken of the inside of the shopping basket 16 at least a predetermined time before and after the change in the total weight, and the time the images were acquired. The item storage information acquisition unit 71 is an example of an information acquisition unit in this disclosure.

[0104] The item storage determination unit 72 determines whether items have been stored in the shopping basket 16 based on the change in the total weight of the items stored in the shopping basket 16. Specifically, the item storage determination unit 72 determines that items have been stored in the shopping basket 16 when the total weight of the items stored in the shopping basket 16 increases. The item storage determination unit 72 is an example of the first determination unit in this disclosure.

[0105] The product storage determination unit 73 determines whether the items stored in the shopping basket 16 are products based on an image taken just before the total weight of the items in the shopping basket 16 increases, when the product storage determination unit 72 determines that items have been stored in the shopping basket 16. Specifically, the product storage determination unit 73 determines whether the items stored in the shopping basket 16 are products by comparing the items shown in the image taken by the camera 26 just before the total weight of the items in the shopping basket 16 increases with the images of products stored in the product master 422. If the customer places the product in the shopping basket 16 after scanning it, the product storage determination unit 73 does not need to compare the items shown in the image taken by the camera 26 with all the product images stored in the product master 422. It only needs to compare with the image of the product that has the identification information (e.g., product code) obtained by scanning, thus improving processing efficiency. On the other hand, the product storage determination unit 73 determines that the item stored in the shopping basket 16 is not a product if the item in the image captured by the camera 26 does not match the image of the product stored in the product master 422. The product storage determination unit 73 is an example of a second determination unit in this disclosure.

[0106] The Unscanned Item Storage Determination Unit 74 determines whether the identification information of an item has been acquired when the Item Storage Determination Unit 73 determines that an item stored in the shopping basket 16 is a product. Specifically, the Unscanned Item Storage Determination Unit 74 determines that the identification information of an item stored in the shopping basket 16 has been acquired if, immediately after scanning with the fixed scanner 23 or hand scanner 24 and acquiring the item's identification information, the weight of the items in the shopping basket 16 increases, and the increase in the weight of the items matches the weight of the scanned item. The Unscanned Item Storage Determination Unit 74 is an example of a third determination unit in this disclosure.

[0107] The determination result output unit 75 outputs to the cart terminal 30 at least the determination result of whether the items placed in the shopping basket 16 are products, and, if the items placed in the shopping basket 16 are products, the determination result of whether the identification information of those products has been acquired.

[0108] (Process flow performed by the shopping cart terminal at the start of shopping) Figure 12 illustrates the processing flow performed by the cart terminal 30 when shopping begins. Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example of the processing flow performed by the cart terminal when shopping begins.

[0109] The shopping start instruction acquisition unit 51 determines whether it has received an instruction from the customer to start shopping (step S11). If it is determined that an instruction to start shopping has been received from the customer (step S11: Yes), the unit proceeds to step S12. On the other hand, if it is determined that an instruction to start shopping has not been received from the customer (step S11: No), the determination in step S11 is repeated.

[0110] In step S11, if it is determined that the customer has given an instruction to start shopping, the shopping instruction acquisition unit 51 determines whether the total weight of the items in the shopping basket 16, as measured by the weight measurement unit 54, is not zero (step S12). If it is determined that the total weight of the items in the shopping basket 16 is not zero (step S12: Yes), the process proceeds to step S13. On the other hand, if it is determined that the total weight of the items in the shopping basket 16 is not zero (step S12: No), the cart terminal 30 terminates processing.

[0111] In step S12, if it is determined that the total weight of the contents of the shopping basket 16 is not zero, the shopping start instruction acquisition unit 51 determines whether it has received a declaration from the customer that items other than goods are contained in the shopping basket 16 (step S13). If it is determined that a declaration that items other than goods are contained in the shopping basket 16 has been received (step S13: Yes), the process proceeds to step S14. On the other hand, if it is not determined that a declaration that items other than goods are contained in the shopping basket 16 has been received (step S13: No), the process proceeds to step S15.

[0112] In step S13, if it is determined that a declaration has been received that items other than goods are contained in the shopping basket 16, the weight correction unit 60 corrects the total weight of the contents of the shopping basket 16 to 0 (step S14). After that, the cart terminal 30 terminates processing.

[0113] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S13 that a declaration has been received that items other than goods are contained in the shopping basket 16, the notification unit 58 instructs the system to remove the goods from the shopping basket 16 and scan them to obtain identification information (step S15). After that, the cart terminal 30 terminates processing.

[0114] (The process performed by the shopping cart terminal during shopping) Figure 13 illustrates the flow of processing performed by the shopping cart terminal 30 during shopping. Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of processing performed by the shopping cart terminal during shopping.

[0115] The product information acquisition unit 52 determines whether the product has been scanned (step S21). If it is determined that the product has been scanned (step S21: Yes), the process proceeds to step S22. On the other hand, if it is determined that the product has not been scanned (step S21: No), the process proceeds to step S23.

[0116] In step S21, if it is determined that a product has been scanned, the product registration unit 53 registers the product with the identification information acquired by the product information acquisition unit 52 in the product registration file 323 (step S22).

[0117] The image capture unit 55 causes the camera 26 to capture an image of the inside of the shopping basket 16 (step S23).

[0118] The weight measuring unit 54 measures the total weight of the contents of the shopping basket 16 (step S24).

[0119] The item storage information output unit 56 outputs to the monitoring device 40 the item identification information acquired by the item information acquisition unit 52, the time the identification information was acquired, the total weight of the items measured by the weight measurement unit 54, the time the total weight was measured, the image captured by the image capture unit 55, and the time the image was captured, all associated with identification information that uniquely identifies the cart terminal 30 (step S25).

[0120] The determination result acquisition unit 57 acquires from the monitoring device 40 the determination result of whether the items placed in the shopping basket 16 are products, the determination result of whether unscanned products are placed in the shopping basket 16, and the determination result of whether the products placed in the shopping basket 16 have been scanned (step S26).

[0121] The determination result acquisition unit 57 determines whether items other than products have been placed in the shopping basket 16 based on the determination result acquired from the monitoring device 40 (step S27). If it is determined that items other than products have been placed in the shopping basket 16 (step S27: Yes), the process proceeds to step S28. On the other hand, if it is not determined that items other than products have been placed in the shopping basket 16 (step S27: No), the process proceeds to step S30.

[0122] In step S27, if it is determined that items other than merchandise have been placed in the shopping basket 16, the item placement declaration reception unit 59 determines whether it has received a declaration from the customer that items other than merchandise have been placed in the basket (step S28). If it is determined that a declaration that items other than merchandise have been placed in the basket has been received (step S28: Yes), the process proceeds to step S29. On the other hand, if it is not determined that a declaration that items other than merchandise have been placed in the basket has been received (step S28: No), the process proceeds to step S30.

[0123] In step S28, if it is determined that a declaration has been received that items other than merchandise have been placed inside, the weight correction unit 60 corrects the total weight of the contents of the shopping basket 16 to the total weight before the items other than merchandise were placed inside (step S29).

[0124] The determination result acquisition unit 57 determines, based on the determination result acquired from the monitoring device 40, whether it has been detected that an unscanned item has been placed in the shopping basket 16 (step S30). If it is determined that an unscanned item has been detected that an unscanned item has been placed in the shopping basket 16 (step S30: Yes), the process proceeds to step S31. On the other hand, if it is not determined that an unscanned item has been detected that an unscanned item has been placed in the shopping basket 16 (step S30: No), the process proceeds to step S33.

[0125] In step S30, if it is determined that an unscanned item has been placed in the shopping basket 16, the notification unit 58 instructs the customer to remove the item from the shopping basket 16 and scan it to obtain identification information (step S31).

[0126] The weight measuring unit 54 determines whether the weight of the contents of the shopping basket 16 has decreased (step S32). If it is determined that the weight of the contents of the shopping basket 16 has decreased (step S32: Yes), the process returns to step S21. On the other hand, if it is not determined that the weight of the contents of the shopping basket 16 has decreased (step S32: No), the process returns to step S31.

[0127] Let's return to step S30. If it is not determined in step S30 that any unscanned items have been placed in the shopping cart 16, the product registration unit 53 determines whether it has received instructions from the customer that the registration of all items has been completed (step S33). If it is determined that it has received instructions from the customer that the registration of all items has been completed (step S33: Yes), the process proceeds to step S34. On the other hand, if it is not determined that it has received instructions from the customer that the registration of all items has been completed (step S33: No), the process returns to step S21.

[0128] In step S33, if it is determined that the customer has given instructions indicating that the registration of all items has been completed, the product registration information output unit 61 outputs the product registration file 323 to the payment machine 13 and causes it to perform the payment process to pay the total amount of the purchased items (step S34). After that, the cart terminal 30 terminates the process.

[0129] (Process flow performed by the monitoring device while shopping) Figure 14 illustrates the flow of processing performed by the monitoring device 40 during shopping. Figure 14 shows an example of the flow of processing performed by the monitoring terminal during shopping.

[0130] The item storage information acquisition unit 71 acquires item storage information from the cart terminal 30 (step S41). The item storage information is information that associates the following with the identification information that identifies the cart terminal 30: the identification information of the product acquired by the fixed scanner 23 or the hand scanner 24, the time the identification information was acquired, the total weight measured by the weight sensor 25 that measures the total weight of the items stored in the shopping basket 16, the time the total weight was measured, and images taken inside the shopping basket 16 at least for a predetermined time before and after the total weight changes, and the time the images were acquired.

[0131] The item storage determination unit 72 determines whether an item has been placed in the shopping basket 16 based on the item storage information (step S42). If it is determined that an item has been placed in the shopping basket 16 (step S42: Yes), the process proceeds to step S43. On the other hand, if it is not determined that an item has been placed in the shopping basket 16 (step S42: No), the monitoring device 40 terminates the process.

[0132] In step S42, if it is determined that an item has been placed in the shopping basket 16, the product placement determination unit 73 determines, based on the item placement information, whether the item placed in the shopping basket 16 is a product (step S43). If it is determined that the item placed in the shopping basket 16 is a product (step S43: Yes), the process proceeds to step S44. On the other hand, if it is determined that the item placed in the shopping basket 16 is not a product (step S43: No), the process proceeds to step S46.

[0133] In step S43, if the items placed in the shopping basket 16 are determined to be goods, the unscanned goods placement determination unit 74 determines whether the goods placed in the shopping basket 16 have been scanned (step S44). If it is determined that the goods placed in the shopping basket 16 have been scanned (step S44: Yes), the process proceeds to step S45. On the other hand, if it is determined that the goods placed in the shopping basket 16 have not been scanned (step S44: No), the process proceeds to step S47.

[0134] In step S44, if it is determined that the items placed in the shopping basket 16 have been scanned, the determination result output unit 75 outputs to the cart terminal 30 that there is no abnormality, in other words, that the scanned items have been placed in the shopping basket 16 (step S45). After that, the monitoring device 40 terminates processing.

[0135] The explanation returns to step S43. In step S43, if the items placed in the shopping basket 16 are not determined to be merchandise, the determination result output unit 75 outputs to the cart terminal 30 that items other than merchandise have been placed in the shopping basket 16 (step S46). After that, the monitoring device 40 terminates processing.

[0136] The explanation returns to step S44. In step S44, if it is determined that the items placed in the shopping basket 16 have not been scanned, the determination result output unit 75 outputs to the cart terminal 30 that unscanned items have been placed in the shopping basket 16 (step S47). After that, the monitoring device 40 terminates processing.

[0137] (Effects of the embodiment) As described above, the cart terminal 30 (product registration device for shopping cart) of the embodiment includes a shopping start instruction acquisition unit 51 (first reception unit) that receives a declaration that the customer will start shopping using the shopping cart 20, a product information acquisition unit 52 (identification information acquisition unit) that acquires identification information to identify the products that the customer wishes to purchase using a fixed scanner 23 (scanner) or a hand scanner 24 (scanner) installed on the shopping cart 20, a product registration unit 53 that registers products having the identification information acquired by the product information acquisition unit 52, a weight measurement unit 54 that measures the total weight of the items stored in the shopping basket 16 (storage unit) of the shopping cart 20, an image capture unit 55 that takes an image of the inside of the shopping basket 16, and an identification information acquisition unit 53 that registers the products having the identification information acquired by the product information acquisition unit 52. The system includes: an item storage information output unit 56 (information output unit) that outputs to a monitoring device 40 that monitors whether the items stored in the shopping basket 16 are merchandise, associating the information, the time the identification information was acquired, the total weight of the items measured by the weight measurement unit 54, the time the total weight was measured, the image captured by the image capture unit 55, and the time the image was captured, with the identification information that identifies itself; a determination result acquisition unit 57 (monitoring result acquisition unit) that acquires the determination result from the monitoring device 40 whether the items stored in the shopping basket 16 are merchandise; and an item storage declaration reception unit 59 (second reception unit) that accepts a declaration from the customer that items other than merchandise have been stored in the shopping basket 16 when the determination result acquisition unit 57 has acquired a determination result that the items stored in the shopping basket 16 are not merchandise.Therefore, customers can store items other than merchandise, such as personal belongings, in the shopping basket at their own discretion.This frees up the customer's hands and reduces the physical burden during shopping.

[0138] Furthermore, the cart terminal 30 (product registration device for shopping carts) of this embodiment also includes a notification unit 58 that, when the determination result acquisition unit 57 (monitoring result acquisition unit) acquires a determination result that an item placed in the shopping basket 16 (storage unit) is a product, and information that the product information acquisition unit 52 (identification information acquisition unit) has not acquired the identification information of the product before the product was placed in the basket, notifies the user to remove the product from the shopping basket 16 and acquire the identification information. Therefore, it is possible to prevent fraud by placing unscanned products in the shopping basket 16.

[0139] Furthermore, the cart terminal 30 (product registration device for shopping cart) of this embodiment also includes a weight correction unit 60 that, when the product storage declaration reception unit 59 (second reception unit) receives a declaration that products other than products have been stored, corrects the total weight of the products stored in the shopping basket 16 (storage unit) to the total weight before the products other than products were stored. Therefore, even if the customer's personal belongings are stored in the shopping basket 16, the weight of the products purchased by the customer can be measured without being affected by the weight of the customer's personal belongings.

[0140] Furthermore, in the cart terminal 30 (product registration device for shopping cart) of the embodiment, the shopping start instruction acquisition unit 51 (first reception unit) also accepts a declaration that items other than products are stored in the shopping basket 16 (storage unit) when the total weight of the items measured by the weight measurement unit 54 is not zero when shopping is started using the shopping cart 20. Therefore, the customer can store items other than products in the shopping basket 16 before starting to shop. This relaxes the timing for storing items other than products in the shopping basket 16, so the customer can store items other than products in the shopping basket 16 at their own discretion.

[0141] Furthermore, the monitoring device 40 of the embodiment includes an item storage information acquisition unit 71 (information acquisition unit) that acquires item identification information acquired by a fixed scanner 23 (scanner) or hand scanner 24 (scanner) installed on the cart terminal 30 (item registration device for shopping cart) of the shopping cart 20, the time the identification information was acquired, the total weight measured by a weight measuring unit 54 that measures the total weight of items stored in the shopping basket 16 (storage section) of the shopping cart 20, the time the total weight was measured, and images taken inside the shopping basket 16 during a predetermined period before and after the change in total weight, and the time the images were acquired, in association with the identification information that identifies the shopping cart 20, and an item storage information acquisition unit 71 (information acquisition unit) that determines whether items have been stored in the shopping basket 16 based on the change in total weight. The system includes a determination unit 72 (first determination unit), a product storage determination unit 73 (second determination unit) that determines whether the items stored in the shopping basket 16 are merchandise based on an image of the inside of the shopping basket 16 immediately before the total weight increases when the product storage determination unit 72 determines that items have been stored in the shopping basket 16, an unscanned product storage determination unit 74 (third determination unit) that determines whether the identification information of the product has been acquired when the product storage determination unit 73 determines that the items stored in the shopping basket 16 are merchandise, and a determination result output unit 75 that outputs to the cart terminal 30 at least the determination result of whether the items stored in the shopping basket 16 are merchandise, and, if the items stored in the shopping basket 16 are merchandise, the determination result of whether the identification information of the product has been acquired.Therefore, it is possible to reliably determine whether the shopping basket 16 contains the customer's personal belongings, merchandise, and whether the stored merchandise is scanned merchandise.

[0142] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. This novel embodiment can be implemented in various 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. [Explanation of symbols]

[0143] 10 Shopping Monitoring System 16. Shopping basket (storage area) 20 Shopping carts 23 Fixed Scanner (Scanner) 24 Handheld Scanners (Scanners) 25 Weight Sensor 26 cameras 30. Cart terminal (product registration device for shopping carts) 322,422 Product Master 323 Product Registration File 40 Monitoring equipment 423 Item Storage Information File 51 Shopping Start Instruction Acquisition Unit (First Reception Unit) 52 Product information acquisition department (identification information acquisition department) 53 Product Registration Department 54 Weight measurement section 55 Image Capture Department 56. Item Storage Information Output Unit (Information Output Unit) 57 Judgment result acquisition unit (monitoring result acquisition unit) 58 Hochi Department 59. Goods Storage Declaration Reception Department (Second Reception Department) 60 Weight correction section 61 Product Registration Information Output Section 71. Item Storage Information Acquisition Unit (Information Acquisition Unit) 72. Item storage determination unit (first determination unit) 73. Product storage determination unit (second determination unit) 74 Unscanned product storage determination unit (third determination unit) 75. Output section for judgment results 81 Shopping Start Screen 84,91 Contents Confirmation Screen 95 Product Scan Instruction Screen [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0144] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2019-191655

Claims

1. The first reception area accepts declarations that customers will begin shopping using a shopping cart, An identification information acquisition unit that uses a scanner installed in the shopping cart to acquire identification information that identifies the product the customer wishes to purchase, A product registration unit that registers products having the identification information acquired by the identification information acquisition unit, A weight measuring unit for measuring the total weight of items stored in the storage compartment of the shopping cart, An image capture unit for capturing images of the inside of the aforementioned storage unit, An information output unit outputs to a monitoring device that monitors whether the items stored in the storage unit are goods, by associating the identification information acquired by the identification information acquisition unit, the time the identification information was acquired, the total weight of the items measured by the weight measurement unit, the time the total weight was measured, the image captured by the image capture unit, and the time the image was captured, with the identification information that identifies itself. A monitoring result acquisition unit that acquires a determination result from the monitoring device whether the item stored in the storage unit is a product, The monitoring result acquisition unit obtains a determination result that the items stored in the storage unit are not merchandise, and the unit includes a second reception unit that receives a declaration from the customer that items other than merchandise have been stored. Product registration device for shopping carts.

2. The monitoring result acquisition unit further includes a notification unit that, if it acquires a determination result that the item stored in the storage unit is a product, and information that the identification information acquisition unit has not acquired the identification information of the product before the product was stored, it will notify that the product should be removed from the storage unit and the identification information acquired. The product registration device for a shopping cart according to claim 1.

3. The second receiving unit further includes a weight correction unit that, when it receives a declaration that items other than merchandise have been stored, corrects the total weight of the items stored in the storage unit to the total weight before the items other than merchandise were stored. The product registration device for a shopping cart according to claim 1.

4. The first reception unit further receives a declaration that, when a customer starts shopping using the shopping cart, the total weight of the items measured by the weight measurement unit is not zero, indicating that items other than merchandise are stored in the storage unit. The product registration device for a shopping cart according to claim 3.

5. An information acquisition unit acquires, in association with the identification information that identifies the shopping cart product registration device, the following: product identification information acquired by a scanner installed in the shopping cart's product registration device; the time the identification information was acquired; the total weight measured by a weight measuring unit that measures the total weight of items stored in the shopping cart's storage compartment; the time the total weight was measured; and images taken of the inside of the storage compartment during a predetermined period before and after the change in the total weight; and the time the images were acquired. A first determination unit that determines whether an article has been stored in the storage compartment based on the change in the total weight, When the first determination unit determines that an item has been stored in the storage unit, a second determination unit determines whether the item stored in the storage unit is a product based on an image of the inside of the storage unit immediately before the total weight increases, When the second determination unit determines that the article stored in the storage unit is a product, a third determination unit determines whether the identification information of the product has already been acquired, The shopping cart product registration device includes at least a determination result output unit that outputs a determination result of whether the item stored in the storage unit is a product, and, if the item stored in the storage unit is a product, whether the identification information of the product has been acquired. monitoring equipment.

6. A computer that controls the product registration device for shopping carts, The first reception area accepts declarations that customers will begin shopping using a shopping cart, An identification information acquisition unit that uses a scanner installed in the shopping cart to acquire identification information that identifies the product the customer wishes to purchase, A product registration unit that registers products having the identification information acquired by the identification information acquisition unit, A weight measuring unit for measuring the total weight of items stored in the storage compartment of the shopping cart, An image capture unit for capturing images of the inside of the aforementioned storage unit, An information output unit outputs to a monitoring device that monitors whether the items stored in the storage unit are goods, by associating the identification information acquired by the identification information acquisition unit, the time the identification information was acquired, the total weight of the items measured by the weight measurement unit, the time the total weight was measured, the image captured by the image capture unit, and the time the image was captured, with the identification information that identifies itself. A monitoring result acquisition unit that acquires a determination result from the monitoring device whether the item stored in the storage unit is a product, When the monitoring result acquisition unit acquires a determination result that the items stored in the storage unit are not merchandise, it is configured to operate as a second reception unit that receives a declaration from the customer that items other than merchandise have been stored. program.

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