Symbol reading device and program

Abstract

The problem that this invention aims to solve is to help make symbols easier to read, both when the symbol is not located in the center of the reading window and when the distance between the reading window and the symbol is too great. [Solution] The symbol reading device of the embodiment is a symbol reading device that reads symbols attached to an object, and comprises a reading unit, an object detection means, a counting means, and an aimer illumination means. The reading unit reads the information indicated by the symbol. The object detection means detects when an object enters the reading range of the reading unit. The counting means starts counting the elapsed time when it is detected that an object has entered the reading range. When the count reaches a predetermined time, the aimer illumination means starts irradiating aimer light to guide the reading position of the reading unit to make it easier to read the symbol.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a symbol reader and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a symbol reader that irradiates aiming light so that the center of the imaging range and the reading range are easily understood by an operator when reading a symbol such as a barcode attached to a product or the like.

[0003] By the way, an operator who is not accustomed to the operation of reading a symbol attached to a product or the like (for example, a customer in the case of a full self-checkout) may pull the product or the like closer to the front and peek at the surface to which the symbol is attached in order to align the aiming light with the center of the symbol. At this time, the product or the like may move away from the reading window of the symbol reader.

[0004] Therefore, depending on the symbol reader, even if the aiming light is aligned with the center of the symbol, it may be difficult to read the symbol because of the long distance from the reading window.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to assist in easily reading the symbol both when the symbol is not located at the center of the reading window and when the distance between the reading window and the symbol is too far.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The symbol reading device of this embodiment is a symbol reading device for reading symbols attached to an object, and comprises a reading unit, an object detection means, a counting means, and an aimer illumination means. The reading unit reads the information indicated by the symbol. The object detection means detects when an object enters the reading range of the reading unit. The counting means starts counting the elapsed time when it is detected that an object has entered the reading range. When the count reaches a predetermined time, the aimer illumination means starts irradiating aimer light to guide the reading position of the reading unit to make it easier to read the symbol. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an example of the appearance of a product data registration system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a scanner according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a scanner according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the scanner according to this embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the scanner according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the scanner according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the scanner according to Modification 1. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the scanner according to Modification 1. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the external appearance of the product data registration system 1 according to the embodiment. The product data registration system 1 is installed, for example, in a retail store such as a supermarket, and comprises a POS (Point of Sales) terminal 2, a reader 3, and a workbench 4.

[0009] POS terminal 2 is a self-service POS terminal where customers register and pay for the items they purchase. POS terminal 2 is an example of a higher-level device.

[0010] POS terminal 2 obtains a product code to identify the product, which is read by the reader 3 from the symbol attached to the product, and performs accounting processing for the customer to make a payment. In this embodiment, the symbol is described as a barcode, but this is just an example, and a two-dimensional code or the like may be used as the symbol.

[0011] POS terminal 2 registers products based on product codes obtained from reader 3. Product registration means temporarily storing the obtained product code and / or product information obtained based on said product code in POS terminal 2 for accounting purposes. POS terminal 2 also includes a support unit 21, an operation display unit 22, and a deposit / withdrawal unit 23.

[0012] The support unit 21 is connected to the workbench 4 at one end. The support unit 21 has a built-in printer 211. The printer 211 functions as a receipt printer that prints a receipt when the customer's payment is completed. The support unit 21 has an output slot 212 for issuing the receipt printed by the printer 211.

[0013] The operation display unit 22 is attached to the upper end of the support unit 21. The operation display unit 22 includes a display 221, a touch panel 222, and a keyboard 223.

[0014] The display 221 consists of an LCD panel and the like. The display 221 displays various information, such as information about registered products, the total amount of a single transaction, and a registration button for registering products that do not have barcodes.

[0015] The touch panel 222 is located on the surface of the display 221 and inputs information corresponding to the touch location to the control unit of the POS terminal 2. For example, when a customer touches the registration button, the touch panel 222 inputs the product code of the product indicated by the registration button to the control unit of the POS terminal 2.

[0016] The keyboard 223 includes a start key for entering the start of a transaction, a close key for declaring that the transaction will be closed and payment will be settled, and a payment method selection key for selecting a payment method such as cash payment or various cashless payment methods.

[0017] The deposit and withdrawal unit 23 is equipment for customers to make payments. The deposit and withdrawal unit 23 includes a coin change dispenser 231, a banknote change dispenser 232, and a card reader 233.

[0018] The coin change machine 231 has a coin slot 2311 and a coin discharge tray 2312. The coin change machine 231 accepts coins inserted by the customer into the coin slot 2311 and dispenses the change to be paid to the customer into the coin discharge tray 2312.

[0019] The banknote change machine 232 has a banknote insertion slot 2321 and a banknote discharge slot 2322. The banknote change machine 232 accepts banknotes that customers insert into the banknote insertion slot 2321 and dispenses banknotes as change to be paid to the customer from the banknote discharge slot 2322.

[0020] The card reader 233 reads the membership ID for identifying the customer from the membership card distributed to the customer in advance. Also, when the customer makes a credit card payment, the card reader 233 reads the credit information necessary for the payment from the credit card. These cards are inserted through the insertion slot 2331. Note that the deposit and withdrawal unit 23 may be provided with a device for reading information necessary for other cashless payments, such as a two-dimensional code reader, for example.

[0021] The reading device 3 reads the product code of the product from the barcode attached to the product purchased by the customer and outputs it to the POS terminal 2. The reading device 3 includes a scanner 31 and a holder 32. In this embodiment, the reading device 3 connected to the POS terminal 2 will be described, but this is just an example and it can also be used in other fields.

[0022] The scanner 31 recognizes the symbol attached to the product from the captured image, decodes the recognized symbol, and reads the product code. The product code is an example of the information indicated by the symbol. Note that the decoding of the barcode recognized by the scanner 31 may be performed by the control unit of the POS terminal 2. In this case, the information indicated by the symbol is the barcode itself before decoding, rather than the product code.

[0023] The scanner 31 includes a main body part 311 and a handle part 312. The scanner 31 is an example of a reading part.

[0024] The main body part 311 incorporates an imaging part 313 (see FIG. 2), and an imaging window (hereinafter also referred to as a reading window) 3*4 for the imaging part 313 to capture an image is formed.

[0025] The handle part 312 is held by the customer when the scanner 31 is removed from the holder 32 and used. A trigger SW 318 is provided on the handle part *12. The trigger SW 318 is turned on by the customer using the scanner 31 when reading the product code with the scanner 31 removed from the holder 32.

[0026] The holder 32 is positioned on the workbench 4 and detachably holds the scanner 31. The holder 32 includes a holding portion 321 that detachably holds the lower end of the handle portion 312 of the scanner 31. The holding portion 321 is formed in a concave shape (details not shown) and detachably fits the lower end of the handle portion 312.

[0027] A contact is provided on the bottom surface of the concave holding portion 321, and when the handle portion 312 is fitted into the holding portion 321, this contact makes contact with a contact provided on the lower end of the handle portion 312. As a result, the contact of the handle portion 312 is connected to an AC power source via a power cord (not shown) provided on the holding body 32, and the battery 320 provided in the scanner 31 is charged. In other words, the holding body 32 also functions as a charging base for the battery 320 of the scanner 31.

[0028] The workbench 4 supports the support section 21 of the POS terminal 2 and the holder 32 of the scanner 31. The holder 32 may be fixedly mounted on the workbench 4 or it may be movably placed on the workbench 4. In addition, customers can place their shopping baskets on the workbench 4 when paying.

[0029] Next, the hardware configuration of the scanner 31 will be described. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the scanner 31.

[0030] The scanner 31 includes a control unit 330, a memory unit 340, an input / output controller 350, a power supply circuit 360, and a communication interface 370, etc. The control unit 330, memory unit 340, input / output controller 350, power supply circuit 360, and communication interface 370 are connected to each other via a bus 380.

[0031] The control unit 330 consists of a computer equipped with a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 331, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 332, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 333. The CPU 331, ROM 332, and RAM 333 are connected to each other via a bus 380.

[0032] The CPU 331 controls the overall operation of the scanner 31.

[0033] ROM332 stores various programs and data, such as programs used to drive the CPU331. RAM333 includes a barcode section 334. The barcode section 334 is an area that stores barcodes read from images captured by the imaging unit 313. RAM333 is also used as a work area for the CPU331, and it loads various programs and data stored in ROM332 and memory section 340.

[0034] The control unit 330 operates according to the control program stored in the ROM 332 and memory unit 340 by the CPU 331 and loaded into the RAM 333, thereby executing various control processes for the scanner 31.

[0035] The memory unit 340 is composed of a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Memory). The memory unit 340 includes a control program unit 341 and a product master unit 342. The control program unit 341 stores various control programs, including a control program for functioning as a scanner 31.

[0036] The product master unit 342 stores the product master. The product master is a master file that stores product codes that identify products and product information associated with the products handled by the retail store where the POS terminal 2 is installed. Product information includes, for example, product name, price, and image.

[0037] Since the products handled by retail stores change daily, the product master may be updated as needed by a POS terminal 2 connected via the communication I / F 370 or by a store server (not shown). Furthermore, the product master unit 342 may be located on the POS terminal 2.

[0038] The input / output controller 350 is connected to the imaging unit 313, illumination unit 315, semiconductor laser (LD: Laser Diode) 316, acceleration sensor 317, trigger switch 318, and audio output unit 319. The input / output controller 350 has functions as an input / output interface for the connected hardware and functions for controlling this hardware.

[0039] As a result, the control unit 330 can send and receive information (data) to and from the imaging unit 313, illumination unit 315, semiconductor laser 316, acceleration sensor 317, trigger switch 318, and audio output unit 319 via the input / output controller 350, and can also control these hardware components based on instructions from the control unit 330.

[0040] The imaging unit 313 is built into the main unit 311 and consists of a camera equipped with an image sensor such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor) or CCD (Charge Coupled Device). For example, when a signal indicating the start of a transaction is input from the POS terminal 2, the imaging unit 313 starts taking images within its imaging area. The imaging unit 313 can capture images of barcodes attached to products that are within a predetermined distance from the reading window 314.

[0041] The illumination unit 315 is built into the main unit 311 and illuminates objects within the imaging area by turning on a light source such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode). For example, the illumination unit 315 turns on when a signal indicating the start of a transaction is input from the POS terminal 2, and turns off when a signal indicating the end of a transaction is input from the POS terminal 2.

[0042] The control unit 330 may also control the illumination unit 315 to remain constantly lit while the scanner 31 is powered on.

[0043] The semiconductor laser 316 is built into the main unit 311 and emits aimer light. Aimer light is light that indicates the reading position of the scanner 31. For example, aimer light is light in the form of a pattern such as a dot, cross, or line. By emitting aimer light, the semiconductor laser 316 can indicate to the customer the reading area of ​​the scanner 31 and the position of the center of the reading area. The customer aligns the center of the barcode within the range of the aimer light or with the center of the aimer light to have the scanner 31 read the barcode attached to the product.

[0044] The acceleration sensor 317 is provided, for example, on the handle portion 312. The acceleration sensor 317 detects changes in the movement of the scanner 31 that occur in response to the operation of the customer gripping the handle portion 312. When the acceleration sensor 317 detects a change in the movement of the scanner 31, it outputs a signal to the control unit 330 indicating this.

[0045] The trigger switch 318 is located on the handle 312 and is operated by the customer in the second state when the scanner 31 is detached from the holder 32. In the second state, the trigger switch 318 inputs an operation signal to the control unit 330.

[0046] The audio output unit 319 has a playback circuit and speaker for playing pre-set reading sounds ("beep"), warning sounds, and other voices. The audio output unit 319 plays reading sounds, warning sounds, and other voices based on control signals from the control unit 330, which will be described later, to notify the reading status and other information audibly.

[0047] The power supply circuit 360 is connected to the battery 320. The power supply circuit 360 is a circuit that supplies power to each piece of hardware in the scanner 31. The power supply circuit 360 supplies power to each piece of hardware by stepping down the voltage supplied from the battery 320 to its respective operating voltage.

[0048] The communication interface 370 is an interface for communicating with the POS terminal 2. The control unit 330 is connected to the POS terminal 2 via the communication interface 370, enabling it to send and receive information (data) with the POS terminal 2. For example, the communication interface 370 uses wireless communication standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) to send and receive data with the POS terminal 2.

[0049] Next, the functional configuration of the scanner 31 will be described. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the scanner 31.

[0050] The control unit 330 functions as a reception unit 3301, a state detection unit 3302, a reading control unit 3303, a code information reading unit 3304, an object detection unit 3305, a lighting control unit 3306, an aimer control unit 3307, a transmission unit 3308, a switch signal input unit 3309, and a notification control unit 3310, as the CPU 331 operates according to the control program stored in the ROM 3322 and the control program unit 341 of the memory unit 340. Note that each of these functions may be implemented in hardware.

[0051] The reception unit 3301 receives signals from the POS terminal 2 indicating the start of a transaction and signals indicating the end of a transaction.

[0052] Specifically, when a customer making a payment uses the touch panel 222 or keyboard 223 of POS terminal 2 to input that they wish to start a transaction before they begin registering their items, the reception unit 3301 receives a signal indicating the start of a transaction. Also, when the customer finishes payment at POS terminal 2 and a receipt is issued, the reception unit 3301 receives a signal from POS terminal 2 indicating the end of the transaction.

[0053] The state detection unit 3302 detects a first state in which the scanner 31 is held by the holder 32, and a second state in which the scanner 31 is removed from the holder 32. The state detection unit 3302 is an example of a state detection means.

[0054] For example, when the reception unit 3301 receives a signal indicating the start of a transaction, the state detection unit 3302 uses the acceleration sensor 317 to detect the first state and the second state. Subsequently, the state detection unit 3302 continuously performs the operation of detecting the first state and the second state until the reception unit 3301 receives a signal indicating the end of a transaction.

[0055] For example, when the state detection unit 3302 receives a signal from the acceleration sensor 317 indicating that the scanner 31 is not moving, it determines that the scanner 31 is still being held by the holder 32 and detects that it is in the first state.

[0056] Furthermore, when the state detection unit 3302 receives a signal from the acceleration sensor 317 indicating that the scanner 31 is moving, it determines that the scanner 31 has been removed from the holder 32 and is being operated by the customer, and detects that it is in the second state.

[0057] The state detection unit 3302 may also detect the first state and the second state by using a vibration detection sensor, weight sensor, mechanical switch, etc., capable of detecting contact or impact to the scanner 31, to detect whether or not the scanner 31 is being held by the holder 32.

[0058] The reading control unit 3303 controls the imaging unit 313.

[0059] For example, if the state detection unit 3302 detects that the scanner 31 is in a first state and the imaging unit 313 is not currently imaging, the reading control unit 3303 controls the imaging unit 313 to start imaging. Also, if the reading control unit 3303 detects that the scanner 31 is in a second state and the imaging unit 313 is currently imaging, it stops imaging. In the second state, the reading control unit 3303 starts imaging on the condition that the trigger SW 318 is turned on.

[0060] Furthermore, for example, the reading control unit 3303 stops imaging if the reception unit 3301 receives a signal indicating the end of a transaction and the imaging unit 313 is currently imaging. Also, when the reading control unit 3303 receives a signal indicating the end of a transaction from the reception unit 3301, it disables the operation of the trigger SW 318. In other words, when no transaction is taking place, even if the customer turns on the trigger SW 318, the imaging unit 313 will not start imaging.

[0061] Furthermore, the reading control unit 3303 reads the barcode contained in the image captured by the imaging unit 313 and stores it in the barcode unit 334. The reading control unit 3303 may also control the imaging unit 313 as needed.

[0062] The code information reading unit 3304 reads the information indicated by the barcode from the barcode stored in the barcode unit 334. The code information reading unit 3304 is an example of a decoding means.

[0063] Specifically, the code information reading unit 3304 decodes the barcode stored in the barcode unit 334 and reads the product code. Furthermore, based on the read product code, the code information reading unit 3304 refers to the product master unit 342 to obtain product information for the product identified by that product code. Note that the barcode decoding and the acquisition of product information by referring to the product master unit 342 may also be performed by the POS terminal 2.

[0064] The object detection unit 3305 detects when an object enters the reading area of ​​the scanner 31. The object detection unit 3305 is an example of an object detection means.

[0065] For example, when the state detection unit 3302 detects that the scanner 31 is in a first state, the object detection unit 3305 detects that an object has entered the imaging area of ​​the imaging unit 313 (the reading area of ​​the scanner 31) based on the image captured by the imaging unit 313. In the following description, detecting that an object has entered the imaging area of ​​the imaging unit 313 will also be referred to simply as detecting an object.

[0066] For example, the object detection unit 3305 detects an object by analyzing the image captured by the imaging unit 313 using known image recognition techniques.

[0067] The object detection unit 3305 may also detect objects using known sensor devices such as infrared sensors, LiDAR (Light Detection and Sorting), and ultrasonic sensors.

[0068] The lighting control unit 3306 controls the lighting unit 315.

[0069] For example, if the state detection unit 3302 detects that the scanner 31 is in a first state and the lighting is off, the lighting control unit 3306 controls the lighting unit 315 to turn on the lighting. Also, if the lighting control unit 3306 detects that the scanner 31 is in a second state and the lighting is on, it turns off the lighting. In the second state, the lighting control unit 3306 turns on the lighting on the condition that the trigger SW 318 is turned on.

[0070] The aimer control unit 3307 controls the irradiation of aimer light by the semiconductor laser 316. The aimer control unit 3307 is an example of a counting means and an aimer irradiation means.

[0071] For example, the aimer control unit 3307 starts counting the aimer light irradiation timer when the state detection unit 3302 detects that the scanner 31 is in a first state and the object detection unit 3305 detects an object. Then, when the count of the aimer light irradiation timer (hereinafter also simply referred to as the count) exceeds a predetermined delay threshold, the aimer control unit 3307 controls the semiconductor laser 316 to start irradiating aimer light.

[0072] The delay threshold may be set to any value by a store employee or other person. In this case, the control unit 330 receives an input of an arbitrary value from the store employee or other person and sets the delay threshold according to the input. The control unit 330 in this case is just one example of a setting means.

[0073] Furthermore, the delay threshold is preferably set to approximately 0.1 to 5.0 seconds, and more preferably to 0.2 to 1.0 seconds. However, the delay threshold should be shorter than the double-read prevention time described later.

[0074] Here, we will explain why the aimer light is emitted only after the count exceeds the delay threshold. For example, if the scanner is in the first state, when the aimer light is emitted from the reading window 314, the customer is likely to pull the product closer to themselves and peer at the side with the symbol to check if the position of the aimer light matches the position of the center of the barcode. In this case, the product will move away from the reading window 314.

[0075] Furthermore, scanners designed to be usable both in a stationary state (corresponding to the first state in this embodiment) and detached from the stand (corresponding to the holder 32 in this embodiment) (corresponding to the second state in this embodiment) often have a short focal length. As a result, with such scanners, if the product moves away from the reading window, the barcode may move out of the scanner's readable range, and barcode reading may not be successful.

[0076] As described above, when the Aimer light is emitted, customers tend to move products away from the reading window 314. On the other hand, before the Aimer light is emitted, customers are likely to try to bring products as close to the reading window 314 as possible in order to have their barcodes read.

[0077] Therefore, the scanner 31 according to this embodiment asks the customer to bring the product or item as close to the reading window 314 as possible before the aimer light is emitted, preventing the barcode from going outside the scanner's readable range and causing reading failure. Furthermore, the scanner 31 according to this embodiment emits the aimer light only after the product or item has come sufficiently close to the reading window 314, preventing the center of the barcode from being outside the center of the reading area and causing reading failure.

[0078] Furthermore, if the code information reading unit 3304 successfully decodes the barcode between the time the object is detected and the time the count exceeds the delay threshold, the aimer control unit 3307 will not start emitting aimer light even if the count exceeds the delay threshold. This is because the aimer light is emitted to make it easier for the customer to have the scanner 31 read the barcode, and if the barcode has been read successfully, the aimer light is unnecessary.

[0079] Furthermore, for example, the aimer control unit 3307 terminates the irradiation of the aimer light when it is irradiating the aimer light and the code information reading unit 3304 successfully decodes the barcode. This allows the control unit 330 to detect an object when reading the barcode attached to the next product, and then start irradiating the aimer light after the count exceeds the delay threshold.

[0080] Furthermore, for example, if the state detection unit 3302 detects that the scanner 31 is in the second state, the aimer control unit 3307 initiates the irradiation of the semiconductor laser 316 with aimer light, provided that the trigger SW 318 is turned on.

[0081] In the second state, it is generally assumed that the customer places the scanner 31 on the near side (where they are standing) and the product(s) on the far side (where the POS terminal 2 is set up) to have the barcodes read.

[0082] In this case, the aimer light is directed towards the back from the customer's perspective, so the customer can see the aimer light without having to lean in to look at the product. In other words, in the second state, even if the aimer light is activated, the customer is unlikely to move the product away from the reading window 314.

[0083] Therefore, in this embodiment, in the second state, the process of detecting an object and the process of irradiating the aimer light after the count exceeds the delay threshold after the object is detected are not performed.

[0084] Furthermore, the control unit 330 may perform the process of detecting an object, and the process of irradiating the aimer light after the count exceeds a delay threshold following the detection of the object, regardless of whether it is in the first or second state.

[0085] The transmitting unit 3308 transmits the product code and product information obtained by the code information reading unit 3304 to the POS terminal 2. The transmitting unit 3308 is an example of a transmission means.

[0086] For example, if a product master is set up on POS terminal 2 and product information is acquired at POS terminal 2, the transmission unit 3308 transmits the product code read by the code information reading unit 3304 to POS terminal 2. Also, if product information is acquired at POS terminal 2 by decoding a barcode and referring to the product master unit 342, the transmission unit 3308 transmits the barcode itself to POS terminal 2.

[0087] Furthermore, for example, if the code information reading unit 3304 obtains the same product code and product information from multiple images within a predetermined time, the transmitting unit 3308 will transmit only the product code and product information obtained from any one of those multiple images.

[0088] In other words, the transmission unit 3308 determines whether the product code and product information obtained by the code information reading unit 3304 should be transmitted, and if so, transmits them to the POS terminal 2. This prevents so-called duplicate registration at the POS terminal 2.

[0089] For example, if the product code and product information obtained by the code information reading unit 3304 are the same as the product code and product information obtained previously, and were obtained within a predetermined duplicate reading prevention time (for example, 0.4 to 1.0 seconds) since the previous acquisition of the product code and product information, the transmitting unit 3308 will determine that the product code and product information should not be transmitted and will not transmit the acquired product code and product information.

[0090] Furthermore, the control unit 330 may prevent duplicate registration by prohibiting the storage of barcodes in the barcode unit 334 from the time the product code and product information are acquired until the time for preventing duplicate readings has elapsed. Alternatively, the control unit 330 may prevent duplicate registration by prohibiting the decoding of barcodes stored in the barcode unit 334 from the time the product code and product information are acquired until the time for preventing duplicate readings has elapsed.

[0091] The switch signal input unit 3309 receives an operation signal from the trigger SW318. The switch signal input unit 3309 receives an operation signal when the trigger SW318 is turned ON by the customer.

[0092] The notification control unit 3310 controls the audio output unit 319. For example, when the code information reading unit 3304 reads a product code, the notification control unit 3310 controls the audio output unit 319 to output a reading sound.

[0093] Next, the processing of the control unit 330 of the scanner 31 will be described. Figures 4 to 6 are flowcharts showing an example of a reading process performed by the scanner 31 according to the embodiment. Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the overall flow of the processes related to barcode reading performed by the scanner 31 according to the embodiment.

[0094] First, the reception unit 3301 determines whether a signal indicating the start of a transaction has been input from the POS terminal 2 (step S1). For example, the reception unit 3301 determines that a signal indicating the start of a transaction has been input from the POS terminal 2 when a customer purchasing goods or services performs an operation on the POS terminal 2 to start a transaction.

[0095] If no signal indicating the start of a transaction is input (step S1: No), the process in step S1 is repeated. On the other hand, if a signal indicating the start of a transaction is input (step S1: Yes), the state detection unit 3302 determines whether it has detected that the first state is present (step S2).

[0096] If it is detected that the scanner 31 is in the first state (step S2: Yes), the first process, which is the process related to reading a barcode when the scanner 31 is in the first state, is executed (step S3).

[0097] The first process according to the embodiment will be described below with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of the first process according to the embodiment. The flowchart in Figure 5 assumes that the scanner 31 has been detected to be in the first state (Step S2 in Figure 4: Yes).

[0098] First, the reading control unit 3303 determines whether the imaging unit 313 is currently capturing an image (step S301). For example, the reading control unit 3303 determines that the imaging unit 313 is capturing an image if an image of the captured area is output from the imaging unit 313 to the control unit 330 via the input / output controller 350. If imaging is in progress (step S301: Yes), the process proceeds to step S304, which will be described later.

[0099] If imaging is not in progress (Step S301: No), the reading control unit 3303 controls the imaging unit 313 to start imaging (Step S302). Next, the illumination control unit 3006 controls the illumination unit 315 to turn on the illumination (Step S303).

[0100] In Figure 5, the illumination is turned on after the imaging is started (step S302) (step S303). However, the process in step S303 may be performed before step S302, or in parallel with step S302. Also, the illumination may be kept on continuously while the power to the scanner 31 is turned on.

[0101] Furthermore, after imaging is started in step S302, the reading control unit 3303 reads the barcode contained in the image captured by the imaging unit 313 and stores it in the barcode unit 334.

[0102] Next, the object detection unit 3305 determines whether an object has been detected (step S304). For example, the object detection unit 3305 uses known image recognition technology to analyze the image captured by the imaging unit 313 and determines that an object has been detected if it detects that an object is within the imaging range of the imaging unit 313. If no object has been detected (step S304: No), the process in step S304 is repeated.

[0103] On the other hand, if an object is detected (step S304: Yes), the aimer control unit 3307 starts counting on the aimer light irradiation timer (step S305). Next, the code information reading unit 3304 performs decoding. For example, the code information reading unit 3304 decodes the barcode stored in the barcode unit 334 (step S306).

[0104] In Figure 5, the process of decoding the barcode is shown as step S306, but the process of step S306 can be executed at any time between the processing of step S302 and step S305. Furthermore, the process of step S306 may be executed continuously after the processing of step S302.

[0105] Next, the aimer control unit 3307 determines whether the aimer light is being emitted (step S307). If the aimer light is being emitted (step S307: Yes), the process proceeds to step S310, which will be described later.

[0106] On the other hand, if the aimer light is not irradiated (step S307: No), the aimer control unit 3307 determines whether the count has exceeded the delay threshold (step S308). If the count has not exceeded the delay threshold (step S308: No), the process proceeds to step S310, which will be described later.

[0107] On the other hand, if the count exceeds the delay threshold (step S308: Yes), the aimer control unit 3307 starts irradiating aimer light (step S309). For example, the aimer control unit 3307 controls the semiconductor laser 316 to irradiate light in the form of patterns such as points, crosses, or lines as aimer light.

[0108] Next, the code information reading unit 3304 determines whether the decoding process was successful (step S310).

[0109] For example, the code information reading unit 3304 determines that the decoding process is successful if it can read a product code from the barcode stored in the barcode unit 334. Alternatively, the code information reading unit 3304 may also determine that the decoding process is successful if it can identify product information corresponding to the read product code by referring to the product master unit 342.

[0110] Furthermore, when barcode decoding is performed by POS terminal 2, POS terminal 2 may send a notification to scanner 31 when the barcode decoding process is successful. In this case, control unit 330 may determine, as step S310, whether it has received a notification from POS terminal 2 indicating that the barcode decoding process was successful. In this case, control unit 330 is an example of a receiving means.

[0111] If the decoding process is unsuccessful (step S310: No), the process returns to step S306. On the other hand, if the decoding process is successful (step S310: Yes), the transmission unit 3308 sends data to the POS terminal 2 (step S311).

[0112] For example, the transmission unit 3308 transmits the product code obtained by the decoding process in step S310 to the POS terminal 2. Alternatively, if the code information reading unit 3304 refers to the product master unit 342 and identifies the product information corresponding to the read product code, it may transmit both the product code and the product information to the POS terminal 2.

[0113] Next, the transmitting unit 3308 controls the audio output unit 319 to emit a notification sound indicating that the barcode reading was successful (step S312). Note that the processing in step S312 may be performed after step S310:Yes and before step S311, or it may be performed in parallel with the processing in step S311.

[0114] Next, the aimer control unit 3307 controls the semiconductor laser 316 to terminate the irradiation of the aimer light (step S313). Note that the process in step S313 may be performed between the end of step S310:Yes and the start of step S312, or it may be performed in parallel with the processes in steps S311 and S312.

[0115] Furthermore, when the barcode is decoded by the POS terminal 2, the aimer control unit 3307 may terminate the irradiation of the aimer light when it receives notification from the POS terminal 2 that the barcode decoding process has been successful. Alternatively, the POS terminal 2 may send a control command to the control unit 330 of the scanner 31 to terminate the irradiation of the aimer light when the barcode decoding process is successful.

[0116] Next, the aimer control unit 3307 resets the count of the aimer light irradiation timer (step S314) and proceeds to the process of step S5 in Figure 4. Note that the process of step S314 may be executed between the end of step S310:Yes and the start of the process of step S313, or it may be executed in parallel with the processes of steps S311, S312, and S313.

[0117] Returning to Figure 4, the explanation continues. If it is not detected in step S2 that the scanner 31 is in the first state, that is, if it is detected that the scanner 31 is in the second state (step S2: No), then the second process, which is the process related to reading the barcode when the scanner 31 is in the second state, is executed (step S4).

[0118] The second process according to the embodiment will be described below with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of the second process according to the embodiment. The flowchart in Figure 6 assumes that the scanner 31 has been detected to be in the second state (step S2: No in Figure 4).

[0119] First, the switch signal input unit 3309 determines whether the trigger SW318 is turned on (step S401). For example, the switch signal input unit 3309 determines that the trigger SW318 is turned on when a signal is input from the trigger SW318. If the trigger SW318 is not turned on (step S401: No), the process proceeds to step S5 in Figure 4.

[0120] On the other hand, if the trigger SW318 is turned on (step S401: Yes), the reading control unit 3303 controls the imaging unit 313 to start imaging (step S402). Next, the illumination control unit 3306 controls the illumination unit 315 to turn on the illumination (step S403). Next, the aimer control unit 3307 controls the semiconductor laser 316 to start irradiating with aimer light (step S404).

[0121] Although Figure 6 shows the process being executed in the order of steps S402, S403, and S404, the processes in steps S402 through S404 may be executed in any order after step S401:Yes, or steps S402, S403, and S404 may be executed in parallel.

[0122] The processing in steps S405 to S409 is the same as in steps S306 and S310 to S313, so the explanation is omitted.

[0123] After step S409, the illumination control unit 3306 controls the illumination unit 315 to turn off the lights (step S410). Next, the reading control unit 3303 stops imaging by the imaging unit 313 (step S411) and proceeds to the process of step S5 in Figure 4.

[0124] In Figure 6, the process is shown to be executed in the order of step S407, step S408, step S409, step S410, and step S411 after step S406:Yes. However, the processes in steps S407 through S411 may be executed in any order after step S406:Yes, and steps S407, S408, S409, S410, and S411 may be executed in parallel.

[0125] Furthermore, in Figure 6, it was explained that when the trigger SW318 is turned on, imaging by the imaging unit 313, illumination, and aimer light irradiation continue until decoding is successful. However, the control unit 330 may control the various parts of the scanner 31 so that imaging by the imaging unit 313, illumination, and aimer light irradiation occur only while the trigger SW318 is turned on.

[0126] Returning to Figure 4, let's continue the explanation. After step S314 in Figure 5 or step S411 in Figure 6, the reception unit 3301 determines whether a signal indicating the end of the transaction has been input from the POS terminal 2 (step S5). For example, the reception unit 3301 determines that a signal indicating the end of the transaction has been input from the POS terminal 2 when a customer purchasing goods or services performs an operation on the POS terminal 2 to end the transaction.

[0127] If no signal indicating the end of a transaction is input (step S5: No), the process returns to step S2. On the other hand, if a signal indicating the end of a transaction is input (step S5: Yes), the lighting control unit 3306 determines whether the lights are on (step S6). For example, the lighting control unit 3306 determines that the lights are on if the scanner 31 is in the first state, and determines that the lights are not on if the scanner 31 is in the second state.

[0128] If the lights are not on (Step S6: No), proceed to Step S8, which will be described later. On the other hand, if the lights are on (Step S6: Yes), the lighting control unit 3306 controls the lighting unit 315 to turn off the lights (Step S7).

[0129] Next, the reading control unit 3303 terminates imaging (step S8) and ends this process. For example, if the scanner 31 is in the first state, the reading control unit 3303 stops imaging by the imaging unit 313 and disables the operation of the trigger SW 318. If the scanner 31 is in the second state, since imaging by the imaging unit 313 has already stopped, the reading control unit 3303 only disables the operation of the trigger SW 318.

[0130] As described above, the scanner 31 according to the embodiment detects when an object enters the reading range of the scanner 31, starts counting the elapsed time at the timing when it is detected that an object has entered the reading range, and starts irradiating with aimer light when the count reaches a predetermined time.

[0131] As a result, the aimer light will not be emitted until the count reaches a predetermined time. By delaying the emission of the aimer light in this way, it is possible to prevent the operator of the scanner 31, such as a customer, from pulling the product closer to their side and peering at the barcode-bearing side of the product in order to align the aimer light with the center of the barcode until the aimer light emission begins. Furthermore, it is assumed that the customer will bring the product closer to the reading window 314 of the scanner 31 while the count is being emitted. Therefore, the scanner 31 according to this embodiment can reduce the possibility that the barcode will not be read due to the distance between the product and the reading window 314 being too far. Moreover, it is assumed that in the scanner 31 according to this embodiment, the aimer light emission will begin only after the distance between the product and the reading window 314 has become sufficiently close. Therefore, even if the center of the barcode is offset from the reading position of the scanner 31, and the customer looks into the side of the product with the barcode to align the aimer light with the center of the barcode, the possibility that the barcode will not be read due to the distance between the product and the reading window 314 being too far is reduced. In other words, the scanner 31 according to this embodiment can help to make the barcode easier to read in both cases: when the barcode is not located in the center of the reading window 314, and when the distance between the reading window 314 and the barcode is too far.

[0132] Furthermore, the above-described embodiment can be modified as appropriate by changing some of the configuration or functions of the scanner 31. Therefore, several modifications of the above-described embodiment will be described below as other embodiments.

[0133] In the following, we will mainly describe the differences from the embodiments described above, and will omit detailed explanations of points that are common to those already described. Furthermore, the modifications described below may be implemented individually or in combination as appropriate.

[0134] (Variation 1) In the embodiment described above, a configuration was described in which the lights are turned on from the time an instruction to start a transaction is received until an instruction to end a transaction is received. In this modified example, a configuration is described in which the lights are turned on in conjunction with the detection of an object.

[0135] In this modified version, the lighting control unit 3306 controls the lighting unit 315 to turn on the lights when the state detection unit 3302 detects that the scanner 31 is in the first state and the object detection unit 3305 detects an object. The lighting control unit 3306 also turns off the lights if the barcode decoding process is successful.

[0136] In this modified example, the imaging unit 313 will capture images of the imaging area without the illumination unit 315 turning on until an object is detected by the object detection unit 3305. If object detection is performed based on an image captured without illumination, the accuracy of object detection may decrease.

[0137] Therefore, in this modified example, it is preferable to provide the scanner 31 with at least one known sensor device (not shown), such as an infrared sensor, LiDAR, or ultrasonic sensor. In this case, the object detection unit 3305 detects the object based on the sensing results from the known sensor device. Alternatively, the object detection unit 3305 may detect the object based on both the sensing results from the known sensor device and the image captured by the imaging unit 313.

[0138] The following describes the processing of the control unit 330 of the scanner 31 according to this modified example. Figures 7 and 8 are flowcharts showing an example of the reading process performed by the scanner 31 according to this embodiment. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the overall flow of the barcode reading process performed by the scanner 31 according to Modified Example 1. The processing in steps S11 to S12 and step S14 is the same as in steps S1 to S2 and step S4, so the explanation is omitted.

[0139] The first process (step S13) related to this modified example will be explained below using Figure 8. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the flow of the first process related to this modified example. The flowchart in Figure 8 assumes that the scanner 31 has been detected to be in the first state (step S12 in Figure 7: Yes).

[0140] First, the reading control unit 3303 determines whether the imaging unit 313 is taking an image (step S331), similar to step S301 in Figure 5. If imaging is in progress (step S331: Yes), the process proceeds to step S333.

[0141] If imaging is not currently in progress (step S331: No), the reading control unit 3303 controls the imaging unit 313 to start imaging (step S332).

[0142] Next, the object detection unit 3305 determines whether an object has been detected (step S333). For example, the object detection unit 3305 detects an object using a known sensor device provided on the scanner 31. If no object is detected (step S333: No), the process in step S333 is repeated.

[0143] On the other hand, if an object is detected (step S333: Yes), the lighting control unit 3306 turns on the lights (step S334). Steps S335 to S344 are the same as steps S305 to S314 in Figure 5, so their explanation is omitted.

[0144] After step S344, the lighting control unit 3306 turns off the lights (step S345) and proceeds to the process of step S15 in Figure 7. Note that the process of step S345 may be executed between the end of step S340:Yes and before the process of step S344, or it may be executed in parallel with the processes of steps S341, S342, S343, and S344.

[0145] The process in step S15 of Figure 7 is the same as in step S5 of Figure 5, so the explanation is omitted. In this modified example, if no signal indicating the end of a transaction is input (step S15: No), the process returns to step S12. On the other hand, if a signal indicating the end of a transaction is input (step S15: Yes), the reading control unit 3303 terminates imaging (step S16) and ends this process.

[0146] According to this modified version, the light remains on only from the time an object is detected until the barcode decoding process is successful. This reduces the power consumption of the scanner 31.

[0147] (Modification 2) In the embodiments described above, a configuration was described in which, in the first state, a process for detecting an object and a process for irradiating aimer light after the count exceeds a delay threshold following the detection of the object were described. In this modification, a configuration is described in which it is possible to set (turn on / off) whether or not to perform the process for detecting an object and the process for irradiating aimer light after the count exceeds a delay threshold following the detection of the object.

[0148] In this modified version, the scanner 31 is provided with a function on / off button. When the function on / off button is on, the control unit 330 in this modified version performs the process of detecting the object described above, and the process of irradiating the aimer light after the count exceeds the delay threshold after the object is detected. On the other hand, when the function on / off button is off, the control unit 330 does not perform the above processes.

[0149] Alternatively, instead of providing a function on / off button, the control unit 330 may control the POS terminal 2 to display a function on / off button on its display or the like.

[0150] Furthermore, the POS terminal 2 may be provided with a function on / off button. Alternatively, the POS terminal 2 may be controlled to display the function on / off button on a display or the like. In this case, when the POS terminal 2 receives a command from an operator such as a store clerk to turn on the function on / off button, it sends a control command to the scanner 31 instructing it to perform the above-described process. The control unit 330 of the scanner 31 then executes the above-described process according to the control command.

[0151] This modification is useful, for example, when not only customers but also store employees may use the scanner 31. Specifically, when an employee familiar with the operation uses the scanner 31, the process of detecting an object and the process of irradiating the aimer light after the count exceeds the delay threshold after the object is detected can be omitted. On the other hand, when a customer unfamiliar with the operation uses the scanner 31, the above-described processes can be performed.

[0152] (Variation 3) In the embodiments described above, the scanner 31 was a handheld scanner, and a configuration was described in which it could be used both when held by the holder 32 (first state) and when detached from the holder 32 (second state). In this modified example, a configuration in which the scanner 31 is a fixed scanner will be described.

[0153] In this modified example, the scanner 31 is mounted on the support portion 21 of the POS terminal 2 (see Figure 1). The imaging unit 313 of the scanner 31 in this modified example captures the front side (the side where the customer is located).

[0154] According to this modified version, even with a fixed scanner with a short focal length, it is possible to help make symbols easier to read, both when the symbol is not positioned in the center of the reading window and when the distance between the reading window and the symbol is too great.

[0155] In the embodiments and modifications described above, the control program executed by the scanner 31 may be configured to be provided by recording it on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM. Alternatively, the control program executed by the scanner 31 may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by downloading it via the network, or it may be provided via a network such as the Internet.

[0156] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0157] 1. Product Data Registration System 2 POS terminal (registration device) 3. Reader 31 Scanners 32 Holding body 330 Control Unit 3301 Reception Department 3302 State detection unit 3303 Read Control Unit 3304 Code Information Reading Unit 3305 Object detection unit 3306 Lighting Control Unit 3307 Aimer Control Unit 3308 Transmitter 3309 Switch signal input section [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0158] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-160486

Claims

1. A symbol reader that reads symbols attached to an object, A reading unit that reads the information indicated by the symbol, An object detection means for detecting when an object has entered the reading range of the reading unit, A counting means that starts counting the elapsed time when it is detected that the object has entered the reading range, When the count reaches a predetermined time, the aimer irradiation means starts irradiating aimer light to guide the reading position of the reading unit to make the symbol easier to read, A symbol reading device equipped with [a specific feature].

2. The aforementioned symbol is a code symbol, The system further comprises a decoding means for decoding the aforementioned code symbol, The aimer irradiation means stops irradiating the aimer light when the decoding of the code symbol by the decoding means is successful. The symbol reading device according to claim 1.

3. The reading unit further comprises an imaging unit, The object detection means detects that the object has entered the reading range based on the captured image obtained by capturing the imaging area of ​​the imaging unit, The decoding means detects the code symbol from the captured image and decodes the detected code symbol. The symbol reading device according to claim 2.

4. The system further includes setting means for setting the predetermined time to any desired time. The symbol reading device according to claim 1.

5. A transmission means for transmitting the information indicated by the symbol to a higher-level device, The system further comprises a receiving means for receiving various information from the aforementioned higher-level device, The aimer irradiation means stops irradiating the aimer light when the receiving means receives a control command from the higher-level device to stop irradiating the aimer light. The symbol reading device according to claim 1.

6. A holding part that detachably holds the reading unit, The system further comprises state detection means for detecting a first state in which the reading unit is held by the holding unit, and a second state in which the reading unit is removed from the holding unit. When the state detection means detects the first state, The object detection means detects that an object has entered the reading range of the reading unit, The counting means starts counting the elapsed time when it is detected that the object has entered the reading range. When the count reaches a predetermined time, the aimer illumination means starts emitting aimer light to adjust the reading position of the symbol. A symbol reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. A computer for a symbol reader that reads symbols attached to an object, which includes a reading unit that reads the information indicated by the symbol, An object detection means for detecting when an object has entered the reading range of the reading unit, A counting means that starts counting the elapsed time when it is detected that the object has entered the reading range, When the count reaches a predetermined time, the aimer irradiation means starts irradiating aimer light to guide the reading position of the reading unit to make the symbol easier to read, A program that makes it function as such.

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