Weighing device, program

Abstract

To improve sales of products that are sold by weight. [Solution] The weighing device comprises a weighing means for weighing the tare mass, which is the mass of the container; a writing means for writing the tare mass weighed by the weighing means to a contactless ID medium attached to a label; and an output means for outputting a message indicating that the writing of the tare mass by the writing means has been completed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a weighing device, a sales method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] For example, a system for weighing and selling products is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, there has been room for improvement in the sale of products that are weighed and sold.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a technology for improving the sale of products that are weighed and sold.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In order to solve the above-described problems, a weighing device according to one aspect of the present invention includes weighing means for weighing tare weight, which is the mass of a container; writing means for writing the tare weight measured by the weighing means to a non-contact ID medium attached to a label; and output means for outputting that the writing of the tare weight by the writing means has been completed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] [Figure 1] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a store to which a weighing device 20 according to an embodiment is applied. [Figure 2] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the appearance of the weighing device 20. [Figure 3]This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of the weighing device 20. [Figure 4] This is an example of the information stored by the weighing device 20. [Figure 5] This is an example of the information stored by the weighing device 20. [Figure 6] This is an example of a screen display in the weighing device 20. [Figure 7] This is an explanatory diagram showing how to register your own container. [Figure 8] This is an explanatory diagram showing how to purchase products using your own container. [Figure 9] This is an example of a label printed and issued by the weighing device 20. [Figure 10] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the weighing device 20. [Figure 11] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the weighing device 20. [Figure 12] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the weighing device 20. [Figure 13] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the weighing device 20. [Figure 14] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the weighing device 20. [Figure 15] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the weighing device 20. [Figure 16] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the weighing device 20. [Figure 17] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the weighing device 20. [Figure 18] This is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (first screen transition example). [Figure 19] This is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (first screen transition example). [Figure 20] This is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (second screen transition example). [Figure 21] This is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (second screen transition example). [Figure 22]An example of screen transition in the metering device 20 (the third screen transition example). [Figure 23] An example of screen transition in the metering device 20 (the third screen transition example). [Figure 24] An example of screen transition in the metering device 20 (the fourth screen transition example). [Figure 25] An example of screen transition in the metering device 20 (the fourth screen transition example). [Figure 26] An example of screen transition in the metering device 20 (the fifth screen transition example). [Figure 27] An example of screen transition in the metering device 20 (the fifth screen transition example). [Figure 28] An example of screen transition in the metering device 20 (the sixth screen transition example). [Figure 29] An example of screen transition in the metering device 20 (the sixth screen transition example). [Figure 30] An example of screen transition in the metering device 20 (the seventh screen transition example). [Figure 31] An example of screen transition in the metering device 20 (the seventh screen transition example). [Figure 32] An example of screen transition in the metering device 20 (the eighth screen transition example). [Figure 33] An example of screen transition in the metering device 20 (the eighth screen transition example). [Figure 34] An example of screen transition in the metering device 20 (the ninth screen transition example). [Figure 35] An example of screen transition in the metering device 20 (the ninth screen transition example). [Figure 36] An example of screen transition in the metering device 20 (the tenth screen transition example). [Figure 37] An example of screen transition in the metering device 20 (the eleventh screen transition example). [Figure 38] An example of screen transition in the metering device 20 (the eleventh screen transition example). [Figure 39]This is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (the 12th example of a screen transition). [Figure 40] This is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (the 12th example of a screen transition). [Figure 41] This is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (the 13th example of a screen transition). [Figure 42] This is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (the 14th example of a screen transition). [Figure 43] This is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (the 15th example of a screen transition). [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a store to which a weighing device 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. Figure 1 shows the interior of the store. The back right of the screen is the display area for products (products sold by weight, such as dried fruits, nuts, and seeds). The front left of the screen is the weighing area.

[0009] In the display area, display containers 300 are arranged according to the type of dried fruit. Each display container 300 has a lid 310. Customers lift the lid 310 of the display container 300 and place the desired dried fruit (the contents inside the display container 300) into a container for purchase (referred to later as a personal container or store container).

[0010] The display area also has display containers 400 arranged according to the type of nuts and beans. Each display container 400 has a pressing part 410. Customers press down the pressing part 410 of the display container 400 and place the desired nuts or beans (the contents inside the display container 400) from the container 400 into a purchase container.

[0011] A weighing device 20 is installed in the weighing area. Customers place items into a container for purchase in the display area, move to the weighing area with the container containing the items, and weigh the items using the weighing device 20. In other words, the weighing device 20 is basically operated by the customer themselves. However, a store employee may operate it on behalf of the customer in response to a call for an employee (e.g., by sending a call message to a terminal operated by the employee (not shown)).

[0012] Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the external appearance of the weighing device 20. Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of the weighing device 20. In Figures 2 and 3, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. The configuration of the weighing device 20 shown in Figure 3 will be described below with reference to Figure 2.

[0013] The weighing device 20 includes a CPU 21 (Central Processing Unit), a ROM 22, a RAM 23, a scanner unit 24, a weighing unit 25, a touch display 26, an audio output unit 27, a printing unit 28, and a wireless tag reading unit 29.

[0014] The CPU 21 is a central processing unit that controls the operation of the weighing device 20 by reading and executing programs stored in the ROM 22.

[0015] ROM22 is read-only memory and stores various information used by the CPU21, such as programs.

[0016] RAM23 is a read / write memory that stores various types of information, such as information read from ROM22 and information acquired via the wireless tag reader 29.

[0017] The scanner unit 24 optically reads various types of information. For example, the scanner unit 24 reads various codes (barcodes, 2D codes, etc.). Note that the scanner unit 24 is omitted from the description in Figures 1, 19(C), etc.

[0018] The weighing unit 25 weighs the object (product, container, etc.) placed on the platform 25a, for example, using a weight detection method with a load cell.

[0019] The touch display 26 displays various information to customers and also has a touch panel, functioning as an operating unit.

[0020] The audio output unit 27 outputs audio. For example, the audio output unit 214 outputs voice guidance, etc.

[0021] The printing unit 28 is a printer device that issues media. For example, the printing unit 28 generates (prints) printed materials (hereinafter also referred to as "labels") on which information about the products to be sold (such as barcodes encoding the price information of the products) is printed, and discharges (issues) them from the label output port 28a.

[0022] The wireless tag reader 29 reads and writes information to a contactless IC tag. An example of a contactless tag is an RFID (radio frequency identifier) ​​tag. In the following description, contactless IC tags may be referred to as wireless tags, wireless IC tags, etc. The wireless tag reader 29 reads and writes information to the wireless tag (IC tag) by short-range wireless communication using electromagnetic fields or radio waves. For example, as will be explained in detail in Figures 7 and 8, in this embodiment, a label with a wireless tag attached (a label with a wireless tag incorporated into it) is provided, and the wireless tag reader 29 reads and writes weight information of the container to which the label is attached to the wireless tag attached to the label. The type of IC tag may be a passive tag, an active tag, or a semi-active tag (an activated active tag) that combines both, but a passive tag is preferred because it is incorporated into a label attached to a container and does not require an internal battery. The wireless tag reading unit 29 emits radio waves that serve as the energy source for the IC tag (passive tag).

[0023] The weighing device 20 may also be equipped with a clock function (timekeeping function). A weighing device 20 equipped with a clock function can, for example, manage the current time, the remaining time until a certain time, or the elapsed time since a certain state was reached.

[0024] Furthermore, the weighing device 20 may be equipped with a communication unit that transmits and receives information to and from other devices wirelessly (for example, via wireless LAN (Local Area Network), Bluetooth®, etc.) or via a wired connection.

[0025] Furthermore, although Figure 3 illustrates a configuration in which the weighing device 20 includes a CPU 21, a ROM 22, and a RAM 22, the weighing device 20 may also be configured to include an MCU (Micro Controller Unit) instead of these components.

[0026] Figures 4 and 5 show examples of information stored by the weighing device 20. The weighing device 20 stores a product file (also called a product master) that holds basic product information (product name, price, etc.). For example, the weighing device 20 stores a product file (also called a product master) as shown in Figure 4.

[0027] Furthermore, if the weighing device 20 is equipped with a communication unit, it may receive and store product files from an external device (such as a management device installed inside the store, not shown in the diagram, or a cloud server located outside the store). The same applies to other files such as product button setting files (described later).

[0028] The product file shown in Figure 4 includes the following data items: product identification information, product name, weighing category, unit price, and unit weight. Product identification information is the identification information that identifies each individual product. Product name is the name of the product.

[0029] The weighing category is a classification related to weighing. Weighing category "0" corresponds to the weighing category "variable weight". Variable weight is a sales method in which the selling price is determined based on a predetermined unit price per unit weight (in this embodiment, "100g") and the weight to be sold (measured value). For products in weighing category "0 (variable weight)", weighing by the weighing device 20 is necessary because the weight to be sold is required when determining the selling price.

[0030] When the weighing category is "0 (variable weight)", the unit price column stores the unit price per unit weight, and the unit weight column stores the unit weight. For example, in the case of product identification information "SH001" (product name "AAA"), it is stored that the unit price per 100g is 250 yen. Therefore, for product name "AAA", if the weighed value is 50g, the selling price will be 125 yen, and if the weighed value is 200g, the selling price will be 500 yen.

[0031] Weighing category "1" corresponds to the "fixed weight" weighing category. Fixed weight is a sales method in which the selling price is determined based on a predetermined unit price per unit quantity (in this embodiment, "1 piece") and the sales quantity converted from the unit weight. For products in weighing category "1 (fixed weight)", the quantity of the product is calculated (estimated) from the unit weight of the product (the weight of one unit, which is the unit quantity, already stored) and the weighed value, and the selling price is determined from the calculated quantity of the product and the unit price per unit quantity, so weighing by the weighing device 20 is necessary. Note that individual weight errors may be corrected using the accuracy correction function provided in a counting scale or the like.

[0032] When the weighing category is "1 (fixed weight)," the unit price column stores the unit price per unit weight (i.e., quantity 1), and the unit weight column stores the unit weight corresponding to quantity 1. For example, in the case of product identification information "SH103" (product name "ABC"), it is stored that the unit price per piece (weight 80g) is 90. Therefore, for product name "ABC," for example, if the weighed value is around 85g, the selling price will be 90 yen for one piece, and if the weighed value is around 150g, the selling price will be 180 yen for two pieces.

[0033] Weighing category "2" corresponds to the "fixed price" weighing category. Fixed price is a sales method in which the selling price is determined based on a predetermined unit price per unit quantity (in this embodiment, "1 piece") and the sales quantity entered as the number of units to be placed. For products in weighing category "2 (fixed price)", the sales quantity is determined by the number of units to be placed regardless of weight, so weighing by the weighing device 20 is unnecessary.

[0034] When the weighing category is "2 (fixed price)", the unit price field stores the unit price per unit (nothing is stored in the unit weight field). For example, in the case of a product with product identification information "SH150" (product name "AAAA"), it is stored that the unit price per unit is 120. Therefore, for a product with product name "AAAA", if the quantity input value is 1, the selling price will be 120 yen for one unit, and if the quantity input value is 2, the selling price will be 240 yen for two units.

[0035] Furthermore, the weighing device 20 stores a store container file (also called a container master; not shown) which holds basic information (such as weight) of the store containers.

[0036] The unillustrated store container file includes store container identification information, store container weight information, and store container price information as data items. Store container identification information is container identification information related to the store container. Container identification information is identification information that identifies a container. For example, container identification information can identify My Container, Container S (one of the store containers), Container M (one of the store containers), and Container L (one of the store containers). For example, container identification information "10" is My Container, container identification information "21" is Container S, container identification information "22" is Container M, and container identification information "23" is Container L. As mentioned above, store container identification information is container identification information related to the store container, so store container identification information "21" is Container S, store container identification information "22" is Container M, and store container identification information "23" is Container L. Store container weight information is the weight information of each store container. Store container price information is the price information of each store container.

[0037] Furthermore, the weighing device 20 stores button setting files related to buttons that are operable and displayed on the touch display 26 in RAM 22. For example, the weighing device 20 stores a product button setting file (Figure 5) related to product buttons and a container button setting file (not shown) related to container buttons in RAM 22.

[0038] The product button configuration file shown in Figure 5 includes product identification information, product button identification information, and a button image as data items. Product identification information is the identification information that identifies individual products. Product button identification information is the identification information that identifies product buttons. The button image is the image data of the product button. In other words, the product button configuration file stores the relationship between products and product buttons.

[0039] The container button configuration file (not shown) contains the following data items: container identification information, container button identification information, and button image. Container identification information is identification information that identifies a container. Container button identification information is identification information that identifies a container button. For example, the container button identification information can identify each of the following: My Container Button, Store Container Button, Container S Button (one of the store container type buttons), Container M Button (one of the store container type buttons), and Container L Button (one of the store container type buttons). The button image is image data of the container button. In short, the container button configuration file stores the relationship between containers and container buttons.

[0040] The file described above is just one example of a file that the weighing device 20 may store; the weighing device 20 may also store files other than those described above.

[0041] Furthermore, the weighing device 20 only needs to be able to refer to the example file described above, and does not necessarily need to store such a file itself. In other words, such a file may be stored in an external device (a management device installed inside the store, not shown, a cloud server located outside the store, etc.), and the weighing device 20 may access the external device as needed to retrieve the information in the file.

[0042] Figure 6 shows an example screen of the weighing device 20. The weighing device 20 displays a screen (weighing operation screen) as shown in Figure 6 as an initial screen on the touch display 26, for example, before the weighing operation starts.

[0043] The weighing operation screen shown in Figure 6 includes a product name display field 1200, a unit price display field 1201, a tare weight display field 1202, a net weight / weighed value display field 1203, a selling price display field 1204, various product buttons (product button for product A 1210a, product button for product B 1210b, product button for product C 1210c, product button for product D 1210d, product button for product E 1210e), a product search button 1211, and various container buttons (my container button 1220, store container button 1230).

[0044] The product name display field 1200 is a display field for displaying the product name. When a product is identified, the weighing device 20 displays the product name of that product in the product name display field 1200. For example, when a product is identified by operating a product button, the weighing device 20 displays the product name of that product in the product name display field 1200.

[0045] The unit price display field 1201 is a display field that shows the unit price per unit weight of the product. When a product is identified, the weighing device 20 displays the unit price of that product in the unit price display field 1201. For example, when a product is identified by operating the product button, the weighing device 20 displays the unit price of that product in the unit price display field 1201.

[0046] The tare display area 1202 is a display area for showing the tare weight. When the tare weight is determined, the weighing device 20 displays the weight in the tare display area 1202. For example, when the weight of a container is read by the wireless tag reader, the weighing device 20 displays the weight in the tare display area 1202. Also, when the type of container is determined by operating the container type button, the weighing device 20 displays the weight of that type of container in the tare display area 1202.

[0047] The tare display area 1202 can also display information other than the tare weight. For example, the tare display area 1202 can also display the type of container and the recognition result of "My Container". In Figure 19(A), the tare display area 1202 displays the word "My Container" as the type of container. In Figure 19(B), the tare display area 1202 displays the mark "◎" indicating that "My Container" was recognized. In Figure 19(C), the tare display area 1202 displays the mark "×" indicating that "My Container" was not recognized. In Figure 21(A), the tare display area 1202 displays the word "Store Container" as the type of container. In Figure 21(C), the tare display area 1202 displays the word "Container M" as the type of container.

[0048] The net weight / measured value display area 1203 is a display area that displays the net weight (net weight, net value) and the measured value (total weight including tare weight; gross value). When a container (including the product) is placed on the platform 25a of the weighing device 20, the weighed value of the container (including the product) is displayed in the net weight / measured value display area 1203. For example, as shown in Figure 19(B), the weighing device 20 displays the weighed value of the container (including the product) in parentheses in small font in the net weight / measured value display area 1203 (the lower area within the same area). Also, when the weighing device 20 recognizes (acquires) both the measured value and the tare weight, it calculates the net weight (calculated by subtracting the tare weight from the measured value) and displays the calculated net weight in the net weight / measured value display area 1203. For example, as shown in Figure 19(C), the weighing device 20 displays the calculated net amount in the net amount / measured value display field 1203 (the central area within that field).

[0049] The sales price display field 1204 is a display field for displaying the sales price of the product. When the weighing device 20 recognizes (acquires) both the unit price and the net weight of the product, it calculates the sales price (calculated by multiplying the unit price by the net weight) and displays the calculated sales price in the sales price display field 1204.

[0050] The product button 1210a for product A is used to specify (select) product A. The same applies to the product buttons 1210b for product B, 1210c for product C, 1210d for product D, and 1210e for product E. The product search button 1211 is used to search for and specify a product, separate from the product buttons. When the product search button 1211 is operated, a screen will be displayed that allows you to search for and specify a product by name, for example, or a screen that allows you to specify a product by filtering based on category.

[0051] The "My Container" button 1220 is used to select "My Container" when given the option to choose between "My Container" and "Store Container." The "Store Container" button 1230 is used to select "Store Container" when given the option to choose between "My Container" and "Store Container."

[0052] Since there are multiple types of store containers, if a store container is selected when choosing between "My Container" and "Store Container," the weighing device 20 will display store container type buttons to select one of the multiple types of store containers. For example, when the store container button 1230 is pressed, the weighing device 20 will display the Container S button (a button displaying "Container S 5 yen"), the Container M button (a button displaying "Container M 7 yen"), and the Container L button (a button displaying "Container S 5 yen"), as shown in Figure 21(A).

[0053] Furthermore, the weighing device 20 can weigh the container (including the product) before either "My Container" or "Store Container" is selected. The weighing device 20 displays buttons to prompt the user to answer (select) about the container placed on the platform 25a. For example, if a container (including the product) is placed on the platform 25a before either "My Container" or "Store Container" is selected, and the weighing device 20 does not recognize the container as "My Container," it displays "Yes" (Store Container) and "No" (My Container) buttons to prompt the user to answer whether the container is a store container, as shown in Figure 27(A).

[0054] Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram showing the process of registering a personal container. Registering a personal container means that the weight of the personal container is stored as the tare weight in the wireless tag attached to the label on the personal container. When registering a personal container, first, a label 80 is attached to the container 70 brought by the customer (the container to be registered as a personal container). A wireless tag 81 is attached to the label 80. The label 80 with the wireless tag 81 attached is sometimes called an RFID label. The center of Figure 7 shows the personal container 71 before registration (before registration) after the label 80 has been attached. It is also preferable that the label 80 be made of a water-resistant material.

[0055] Next, the unregistered My Container 71 is placed on the weighing device 20. The weighing device 20 weighs the unregistered My Container 71 that has been placed on it. The weighed value is the tare weight (My Container 71). After weighing the My Container 71, the weighing device 20 writes the weighed value to the wireless tag 81 attached to the label 80 affixed to the My Container 71. As a result, the unregistered My Container 71 becomes a registered My Container 71. Note that in Figure 7, the My Container is explained before and after the weighed value (weight) is stored in the wireless tag 81, so for convenience, the two are distinguished as unregistered My Container 71 and registered My Container 71. However, in other figures (other scenes), My Container refers to the My Container whose weighed value (weight) has been stored in the wireless tag, so in other figures, when simply referred to as My Container, it refers to a registered My Container.

[0056] The weighing device 20 registers the My Container 71 on the My Container registration screen (My Container registration mode). The weighing device 20 may also transition to the My Container registration screen (My Container registration mode) depending on the operation. As the My Container registration screen, for example, before an unregistered My Container 71 is placed on the weighing device 20 (before placement detection), the weighing device 20 displays a message to place the container on the weighing device 20 (see the left screen of the three screens at the top left, center, and right of Figure 7), while weighing is in progress (see the center screen of the same three screens), and after the writing of the weighed value to the wireless tag 81 is complete, it displays a message indicating completion (see the right screen of the same three screens).

[0057] The task of attaching the label 80 to the container 70 may be performed by the customer themselves or by a store employee. Also, the task of placing an unregistered personal container 71 on the weighing device 20 may be performed by the customer themselves or by a store employee.

[0058] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram showing how to purchase a product using a personal container. The customer places the desired product 90 into their registered personal container 71. The center of Figure 8 shows the personal container 71 containing the product 90.

[0059] Next, the customer places their personal container 71 containing product 90 (i.e., product 90 in personal container 71) onto the weighing device 20. The weighing device 20 weighs the product 90 in personal container 71. The weighing device 20 also reads the weight of personal container 71 (tare weight) stored in the wireless tag 81 attached to the label 80 affixed to personal container 71. The weighing device 20 calculates the net weight of product 90 based on the measured value and the weight of personal container 71 (calculated by subtracting the tare weight from the measured value). The weighing device 20 also identifies the placed product (product in personal container 71) as product 90 based on the customer's actions, etc. The weighing device 20 calculates the selling price based on the unit price of product 90 and the net weight of product 90 (calculated by multiplying the unit price by the net weight). The weighing device 20 displays the selling price and then prints and issues a label as shown in Figure 9(A). The customer attaches the label issued by the weighing device 20 to, for example, their container 71 and moves to a location where a device (not shown) capable of performing at least a product registration process is installed. The product registration process may be a registration and settlement device (such as a conventional POS terminal) capable of performing both registration and settlement processes, or it may be a dedicated registration device that exclusively performs registration processes. After the registration process in the dedicated registration device, the customer moves to a location where a device (not shown) capable of performing at least a settlement process is installed and performs the settlement process. The device capable of performing at least a settlement process may be the registration and settlement device described above, or it may be a dedicated settlement device that exclusively performs settlement processes.

[0060] Furthermore, the weighing device 20 used when registering a personal container 71 (a weighing device 20 on which an unregistered personal container 71 is placed) and the weighing device 20 used when purchasing goods (a weighing device 20 on which a registered personal container 71 is placed) may be the same weighing device 20 or different weighing devices 20. In one embodiment of the latter operation, for example, a weighing device 20 may be installed at the service counter, a store employee may register a personal container 71 using the weighing device 20 installed at the service counter, and a customer may purchase goods using their personal container 71 with the weighing device 20 installed in the weighing area.

[0061] Figure 9 shows an example of a label printed and issued by the weighing device 20. After weighing each product (after calculating the selling price), the weighing device 20 uses the printing unit 28 to print and issue a label like the one shown in Figure 9. Figure 9(A) shows a label when using a personal container. The label in Figure 9(A) has "My Bottle" printed on it to indicate that a personal container was used. In other words, each store may refer to personal containers as "My Bottle," etc. The 827 yen on the label in Figure 9(A) is the special price for using a personal bottle, calculated by subtracting the "My Bottle" discount amount (20 yen) from the price (847 yen) for the net weight (121g) of the (Original Nut Mix), which has a unit price (yen / 100g) of 700 yen. Although not printed in the example in Figure 9(A), the "My Bottle" discount amount (20 yen) may also be printed. The barcode on the label in Figure 9(A) is, for example, a code for the above amount (847 yen). As will be explained later, the price of container A is 30 yen, while a personal bottle (personal container) costs 0 yen. Therefore, it is acceptable to explicitly print "0 yen" for personal bottles (personal containers).

[0062] Please note that while a discount of a predetermined amount (20 yen in the above case) is applied to the total price when using a reusable bottle, other discounts are also acceptable. For example, a discount on the unit price could be applied (i.e., a predetermined percentage could be applied to the total price). Furthermore, the discount for using a reusable bottle is not mandatory.

[0063] Figure 9(B) shows a label used when a store container is used. The label in Figure 9(B) has "Container A" printed on it to indicate that a store container was used. In this example, the price of Container A is 30 yen, so 30 yen is printed on it. The 877 yen on the label in Figure 9(B) is the amount obtained by adding the price of Container A (30 yen) to the 847 yen explained in Figure 9(A). The barcode on the label in Figure 9(B) is, for example, a code for the above amount (877 yen).

[0064] The barcode on the label is read, for example, by a device (not shown) capable of performing at least a registration process. In other words, the customer places the product into a container for purchase in the display area, moves to the weighing area with the container containing the product, weighs the product using the weighing device 20, has the label described above issued, and then moves to the location where the device capable of performing at least a registration process is installed. It is preferable that the label issued by the weighing device 20 be affixed to the container (my container, store container). Furthermore, the barcode on the label in the device capable of performing at least a registration process may be read by a store employee or by the customer themselves. In other words, the registration process in the device capable of performing at least a registration process may be performed by an employee or by the customer themselves.

[0065] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the weighing device 20. Specifically, Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the weighing device 20 when registering a personal container. At the start of the flowchart in Figure 10, the weighing device 20 is assumed to be displaying the screen for registering personal containers (for example, see the screen on the upper left of Figure 7).

[0066] Step S10: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not it has detected a container being placed on the counter. If it determines that a container has been placed (Step S10: YES), it proceeds to Step S11. If it determines that a container has not been placed (Step S10: NO), it returns to Step S10 (i.e., it waits until an unregistered container is placed on the counter).

[0067] Step S11: The weighing device 20 acquires the weighed value (the weight of the container, which is the tare weight). The weighing device 20 acquires the stable value after placement as the weighed value, but after placement but before acquiring the weighed value (until the value stabilizes), it displays that weighing is in progress (see, for example, the screen in the upper center of Figure 7).

[0068] Step S12: The weighing device 20 writes the weighed value as the tare weight to the RFID label (the label with the wireless tag attached). More specifically, the weighing device 20 writes the weighed value (the weight of the container) obtained in step S11 to the wireless tag attached to the label affixed to the container.

[0069] Step S13: The weighing device 20 displays a message indicating that the writing process is complete (see, for example, the upper right screen in Figure 7). The flowchart in Figure 10 then ends. In addition to the message indicating that the writing process is complete, the weighing device 20 may also display the information that has been written (the weight of the container).

[0070] Figures 11 to 17 are flowcharts illustrating an example of the operation of the weighing device 20. Specifically, Figures 11 to 17 are flowcharts illustrating an example of the operation of the weighing device 20 when purchasing goods. Each process in Figure 12 follows step S100(NO) in Figure 11. Each process in Figures 13 and 14 follows step S200(NO) in Figure 11. Each process in Figures 15 to 17 follows step S300(NO) in Figure 11. Note that in the explanation of Figures 11 to 17, it is assumed that there is no discount for using a personal bottle.

[0071] (Explanation of the flowchart in Figure 11) Step S100 in Figure 11: The weighing device 20 determines whether the product to be weighed has been identified. That is, the weighing device 20 determines whether the product identification information of the product to be weighed is stored (for example, temporarily stored in RAM 23; the same applies to other information below). If it is determined that the product to be weighed has been identified (Step S100: YES), the device proceeds to Step S200. If it is determined that the product to be weighed has not been identified (Step S100: NO), the device proceeds to Step S101 in Figure 12.

[0072] Step S200: The weighing device 20 determines whether the tare weight has been acquired. In other words, the weighing device 20 determines whether the tare weight information has been stored. If it is determined that the tare weight has been acquired (Step S200: YES), the process proceeds to Step S300. If it is determined that the tare weight has not been acquired (Step S200: NO), the process proceeds to Step S201 in Figure 13.

[0073] Step S300: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not the weighed value (total weight including tare weight) has already been acquired. In other words, the weighing device 20 determines whether or not the weighing information has been stored. If it is determined that the weighed value has already been acquired (Step S300: YES), the process proceeds to Step S400. If it is determined that the weighed value has not yet been acquired (Step S300: NO), the process proceeds to Step S301 in Figure 15.

[0074] Step S400: The weighing device 20 determines whether all identification and acquisition processes have been completed. That is, it determines whether the item to be weighed has been identified, the tare weight has been acquired, and the weighed value has been acquired. If it determines that all processes have been completed (Step S400: YES), it proceeds to Step S410. If it determines that one or more processes have not been completed (Step S400: NO), it returns to Step S100.

[0075] Step S410: The weighing device 20 calculates the net weight and selling price of the product to be weighed. Specifically, the weighing device 20 calculates the net weight of the product based on the weighing information (weighed value) and the tare weight information. Furthermore, if the container (tare) is a personal container, the weighing device 20 calculates the selling price of the product based on the unit price by weight and the net weight of the product to be weighed. If the container (tare) is a store container, the weighing device 20 calculates the selling price of the product based on the unit price by weight, the net weight of the product to be weighed, and the price information of the store container (tare). Then proceed to step S420.

[0076] Step S420: The weighing device 20 displays the net weight of the product to be weighed and the selling price of the product to be weighed. In other words, the weighing device 20 displays the net weight of the product to be weighed and the selling price of the product to be weighed, which were calculated in step S410. Then proceed to step S430.

[0077] Step S430: The weighing device 20 issues a label. Specifically, the weighing device 20 issues a label displaying the sales price of the weighed product, etc., calculated in step S410. This flowchart then concludes.

[0078] (Explanation of the flowchart in Figure 12) Step S101 in Figure 12: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not a product has been specified. That is, the weighing device 20 determines whether or not the product button on the touch display 26 has been touched. If it is determined that a product has been specified (Step S101: YES), the device proceeds to Step S102. If it is determined that no product has been specified (Step S101: NO), the device proceeds to Step S200 in Figure 11.

[0079] Step S102: The weighing device 20 identifies the specified product as the product to be weighed. The weighing device 20 also stores the product identification information of the product to be weighed (for example, temporarily stored in RAM 23; the same applies to other information below). For example, the weighing device 20 stores the product identification information corresponding to the touched product button (see Figure 5) as the product identification information of the product to be weighed. Then proceed to step S103.

[0080] Step S103: The weighing device 20 displays the product name of the product to be weighed. That is, the weighing device 20 displays the product name corresponding to the touched product button (see Figures 4 and 5) on the touch display 26. Then proceed to step S104.

[0081] Step S104: If the weighing device 20 is only waiting to be placed, it displays a message prompting the user to place the item. Then it proceeds to step S200 in Figure 11. Cases where only placement is required include, for example, when the item to be weighed has been identified and the weight of the store container (tare weight) has been obtained, but the weighed value has not been obtained, or when the item to be weighed has been identified and a custom container has been selected, but the weight of the custom container (tare weight) and the weighed value have not been obtained.

[0082] (Explanation of the flowcharts in Figures 13 and 14) Step S201 in Figure 13: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not a "My Container" has been selected. In other words, the weighing device 20 determines whether or not information indicating the use of a "My Container" is stored in its memory. If it determines that a "My Container" has been selected (Step S201: YES), the device proceeds to Step S300 in Figure 11. If it determines that a "My Container" has not been selected (Step S201: NO), the device proceeds to Step S202.

[0083] Step S202: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not a "My Container" selection has been made. In other words, the weighing device 20 determines whether or not the "My Container" button on the touch display 26 has been touched. If it is determined that a "My Container" selection has been made (Step S202: YES), the device proceeds to Step S203. If it is determined that a "My Container" selection has not been made (Step S202: NO), the device proceeds to Step S211 in Figure 14.

[0084] Step S203: The weighing device 20 stores information indicating that a personal container is to be used. For example, the weighing device 20 stores container identification information corresponding to the touched personal container button as container usage information for the container being used. Then proceed to step S204.

[0085] Step S204: The weighing device 20 displays a message indicating that the user is to use their own container. Then proceed to step S205.

[0086] Step S205: If the weighing device 20 is only waiting to be placed, it displays a message prompting the user to place the object. Then it proceeds to step S300 in Figure 11.

[0087] Step S211 in Figure 14: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not a store container has been selected. In other words, the weighing device 20 determines whether or not information indicating the use of a store container is stored. If it is determined that a store container has been selected (Step S211: YES), the device proceeds to Step S250. If it is determined that a store container has not been selected (Step S211: NO), the device proceeds to Step S230.

[0088] Step S230: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not a store container has been selected. That is, the weighing device 20 determines whether or not the store container button on the touch display 26 has been touched. If it is determined that a store container has been selected (Step S230: YES), the device proceeds to Step S231. If it is determined that no store container has been selected (Step S230: NO), the device proceeds to Step S300 in Figure 11.

[0089] Step S231: The weighing device 20 stores information indicating that a store container will be used. For example, the weighing device 20 stores container identification information (store container identification information) corresponding to the touched store container button as container usage information for the container to be used. Then proceed to step S232.

[0090] Step S232: The weighing device 20 displays a message indicating that the store container will be used. Then proceed to step S233.

[0091] Step S233: The weighing device 20 displays a message prompting the user to select the type of store container. Then proceed to step S250.

[0092] Step S250: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not a selection of the type of store container has been made. That is, the weighing device 20 determines whether or not one of the store container type buttons (for example, the container S button, the container M button, or the container L button) for each type of store container has been touched on the touch display 26. If it is determined that a selection of the type of store container has been made (Step S250: YES), the device proceeds to Step S251. If it is determined that no selection of the type of store container has been made (Step S250: NO), the device proceeds to Step S300 in Figure 11.

[0093] Step S251: The weighing device 20 acquires the weight information of the store container of the relevant type as tare weight information. Specifically, the weighing device 20 stores the store container weight information corresponding to the touched store container type button as tare weight information. Then proceed to step S252.

[0094] Step S252: The weighing device 20 displays that the store container of that type is to be used. Then proceed to step S253.

[0095] Step S253: The weighing device 20 displays the tare weight (of the store container of the type). In other words, the weighing device 20 displays the weight information of the store container of the type obtained in step S251. Then proceed to step S254.

[0096] Step S254: If the weighing device 20 is only waiting to be placed, it displays a message prompting the user to place the object. Then the process proceeds to step S300 in Figure 11.

[0097] (Explanation of the flowcharts in Figures 15-17) Step S301 in Figure 15: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not it has detected a placement. If it determines that a placement has been detected (Step S301: YES), it proceeds to Step S302. If it determines that a placement has not been detected (Step S301: NO), it proceeds to Step S400 in Figure 11.

[0098] Step S302: The weighing device 20 obtains the weighed value (total weight including tare weight). The weighing device 20 stores the weighed value as weighing information. Then proceed to step S303.

[0099] Step S303: The weighing device 20 displays the measured value. That is, the weighing device 20 displays the total weight including the tare weight obtained in step S301. Then proceed to step S310.

[0100] Step S310: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not the tare weight has been obtained. If it determines that the tare weight has been obtained (Step S310: YES), proceed to step S400 in Figure 11. If it determines that the tare weight has not been obtained (Step S310: NO), proceed to step S311 in Figure 16.

[0101] Step S311 in Figure 16: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not it has recognized the container. If it determines that it has recognized the container (Step S311: YES), it proceeds to Step S312. If it determines that it has not recognized the container (Step S311: NO), it proceeds to Step S320 in Figure 17.

[0102] Step S312: The weighing device 20 displays a message indicating that it has recognized the container. Then proceed to step S313.

[0103] Step S313: The weighing device 20 acquires the weight information of the container as the tare weight. Specifically, the weighing device 20 reads the weight information of the container from the RFID label (the label attached to the container) (more specifically, from the wireless tag attached to the label) and stores it as the tare weight information. Then proceed to step S314.

[0104] Step S314: The weighing device 20 displays the tare weight (of the container). In other words, the weighing device 20 displays the weight information of the container obtained in step S313. Then proceed to step S400 in Figure 11.

[0105] Step S320 in Figure 17: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not a "My Container" has been selected. If it determines that a "My Container" has been selected (Step S320: YES), the process proceeds to Step S321. If it determines that a "My Container" has not been selected (Step S320: NO), the process proceeds to Step S322.

[0106] Step S321: The weighing device 20 displays a message indicating that it did not recognize the customer's container and a message instructing the customer to reposition the container. Then it returns to step S301 in Figure 15. If the situation does not change after returning to step S301 (if the customer's container continues not to be recognized), the process from steps S301 to S321 will be repeated. However, if a predetermined amount of time has elapsed, the process of calling a store employee may be executed even without any customer interaction.

[0107] Reasons why a user might not recognize their own container include, for example, damage to the wireless tag, malfunction of the reader (wireless tag reading unit 29), or misreading of the information. Furthermore, if the container is outside the scope of management (e.g., if it's a product from another store or has a different data structure), the user will not recognize it as their own container.

[0108] If a store employee is called, the employee may try again a few more times before repacking the product into a store container and selling it (for 0 yen), or register the customer's container again. Alternatively, a predetermined percentage of the weighed value may be entered as the weight of the customer's container. In other words, when calculating the net value from the gross value, a predetermined percentage of the gross value may be used as the tare weight. The weighing device 20 performs a process to set the tare weight to a predetermined percentage of the gross value (hereinafter referred to as "percentage tare processing") based on the employee's operation. For example, the weighing device 20 may display a button to perform percentage tare processing and perform percentage tare processing in response to the operation of that button.

[0109] Step S322: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not a store container has been selected. If it determines that a store container has been selected (Step S322: YES), proceed to step S350. If it determines that a store container has not been selected (Step S322: NO), proceed to step S323.

[0110] Step S323: The weighing device 20 displays a message indicating that it did not recognize the "My Container" and a message to confirm the placed container. In other words, the weighing device 20 detected the placement of a container (Step S301 (YES)), but did not recognize the "My Container" (Step S311 (NO)), and since neither the "My Container" nor the "Store Container" had been selected (Step S320 (NO), Step S322 (NO)), it confirms whether the placed container is a store container or not. Then it proceeds to Step S330.

[0111] Step S330: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not a response indicating that the placed container is a store container was received (selection indicating that a store container was placed). If it is determined that a response indicating that the placed container is a store container was received (selection indicating that a store container was placed) (Step S330: YES), the device proceeds to Step S331. If it is determined that a response indicating that the placed container is a store container was not received (selection indicating that a store container was placed) (Step S330: NO), the device proceeds to Step S340.

[0112] Step S331: The weighing device 20 stores information indicating that a store container will be used. Then proceed to step S332.

[0113] Step S332: The weighing device 20 displays a message indicating that the store container will be used. Then proceed to step S333.

[0114] Step S333: The weighing device 20 displays a message prompting the user to select the type of store container. Then proceed to step S350.

[0115] Step S340: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not a response indicating that the placed container is not a store container (selection indicating that a personal container was placed) was received. If it is determined that a response indicating that the placed container is not a store container (selection indicating that a personal container was placed) was received (Step S340: YES), the device proceeds to Step S341. If it is determined that a response indicating that the placed container is not a store container (selection indicating that a personal container was placed) was not received (Step S340: NO), the device returns to Step S330.

[0116] Step S341: The weighing device 20 displays a message indicating that it did not recognize the container and a message instructing the customer to reposition the container. Then it returns to step S301 in Figure 15. If the situation does not change after returning to step S301, the process from steps S301 to S321 will be repeated (since the customer responded that it was their container in step S340, after returning to step S301, the response will be step S320 (YES), and the process from steps S301 to S321 will be repeated). However, if a predetermined amount of time has elapsed, the process of calling a store employee may be executed even without any customer interaction.

[0117] Step S350: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not a selection of the type of store container has been made. If it determines that a selection of the type of store container has been made (Step S350: YES), it proceeds to Step S351. If it determines that no selection of the type of store container has been made (Step S350: NO), it returns to Step S350 (i.e., it waits until a selection of the type of store container is made).

[0118] Step S351: The weighing device 20 acquires the weight information of the store container of that type as the tare weight information. Then proceed to step S352.

[0119] Step S352: The weighing device 20 displays that the store container of that type is to be used. Then proceed to step S353.

[0120] Step S353: The weighing device 20 displays the tare weight (of the store container of the type). Then proceed to step S400 in Figure 11.

[0121] Figures 18 to 43 show examples of screen transitions in the weighing operation screen of the weighing device 20. Note that in Figures 18 to 43, the reference numerals for fields and buttons have been omitted to avoid cluttering the diagrams.

[0122] (Example of the first screen transition) Figures 18 and 19 show the first example of screen transitions in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Figures 18 and 19 show the screens in several scenarios when the user selects product A, selects their own container, and places it, and the container is recognized. The transitions proceed in the order of Figure 18(A) → Figure 18(B) → Figure 18(C) → Figure 18(D) → Figure 19(A) → Figure 19(B) → Figure 19(C). The same applies to the second to fifteenth examples of screen transitions.

[0123] (Example of operation) The process involves selecting product A, selecting your container, and placing it (this is done in a very quick manner; the same applies to other screen transitions). Once your container is recognized, the weighing device 20 will operate as follows, as illustrated in the flowcharts in Figures 11 to 17. Note that "Step Sx" will be abbreviated as simply "Sx".

[0124] S100(NO)→S101(YES)→S102→S103→S104→S200(NO)→S201(NO)→S202(YES)→S203→S204→S205→S300( NO)→S301(YES)→S302→S303→S310(NO)→S311(YES)→S312→S313→S314→S400(YES)→S410→S420→S430

[0125] Figure 18(A) shows the scene before the operation begins. Figure 18(B) shows the scene when the product button for product A is touched. Figure 18(C) shows the scene after the product button for product A has been touched. In Figure 18(C), the product name and unit price of product A are displayed as the product to be weighed (S103). Figure 18(D) shows the scene when the My Container button is touched. Figure 19(A) shows the scene after the My Container button has been touched. In Figure 19(A), a message indicating that My Container will be used is displayed (S204), and a message instructing the user to place the container is displayed (S205). Figure 19(B) shows the scene after My Container containing product A has been placed. In Figure 19(B), the weighed value is displayed (S303), a message indicating that My Container has been recognized (i.e., it has been recognized simply by being placed on the container; the same applies to Figure 24(D), etc.) is displayed (S312), and the tare weight (of the My Container) is displayed (S314). Figure 19(C) shows the situation after the calculation of the net weight and selling price of the product to be weighed. In Figure 19(C), the net weight and selling price of the product to be weighed are displayed (S420).

[0126] If the user selects product A, then selects their own container, and then places it, and their own container is not recognized, the user will proceed in the following order: Figure 18(A) → Figure 18(B) → Figure 18(C) → Figure 18(D) → Figure 19(A) → Figure 19(D).

[0127] (Example of operation) If the user selects product A, then selects their own container, and places it on the container, and the device fails to recognize their own container, the weighing device 20 will operate as follows, as illustrated in the flowcharts in Figures 11 to 17.

[0128] S100 (NO) → S101 (YES) → S102 → S103 → S104 → S200 (NO) → S201 (NO) → S202 (YES) → S203 → S204 → S205 → S300 (NO) → S301 (YES) → S302 → S303 → S310 (NO) → S311 (NO) → S320 (YES) → S321 → (and so on)

[0129] In Figure 19(D), a message is displayed indicating that the container was not recognized, and a message instructing the user to re-place the container (S321).

[0130] (Example of a second screen transition) Figures 20 and 21 show examples of second screen transitions in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Figures 20 and 21 show screens in several scenarios when the user performs the following operations in order: selecting product A → selecting store container → selecting container M → placing the product.

[0131] (Example of operation) If the operation is performed in the following order: selecting product A → selecting store container → selecting container M → placing, the weighing device 20 will operate as follows, for example, as explained in the flowcharts in Figures 11 to 17.

[0132] S100(NO)→S101(YES)→S102→S103→S104→S200(NO)→S201(NO)→S202(NO)→S211(NO)→S230(YES)→S231→S232→S23 3→S250(YES)→S251→S252→S253→S254→300(NO)→S301(YES)→S302→S303→S310(YES)→S400(YES)→S410→S420→S430

[0133] Figures 20(A) to 20(C) are the same as Figures 18(A) to 18(C). Figure 20(D) shows the scene when the store container button is touched. Figure 21(A) shows the scene after the store container button has been touched. In Figure 21(A), a message indicating that a store container will be used is displayed (S232), and a message prompting the user to select the type of store container is displayed (S233). Figure 21(B) shows the scene when the container M button is touched. Figure 21(C) shows the scene after the container M button has been touched. In Figure 21(C), a message indicating that container M will be used is displayed (S252), the tare weight (container M) is displayed (S253), and a message prompting the user to place the container is displayed (S254). Figure 21(D) shows the scene after the net weight and selling price of the product to be weighed have been calculated. In Figure 21(D), the measured value is displayed (S303), and the net weight and selling price of the product being measured are also displayed (S420).

[0134] (Example of a third screen transition) Figures 22 and 23 show examples of a third screen transition in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Figures 22 and 23 show screens in several scenarios when the user operates in the following order: selection of product A → selection of store container → placement → selection of container M.

[0135] (Example of operation) If the operation is performed in the following order: selecting product A → selecting store container → placing → selecting container M, the weighing device 20 will operate as follows, for example, as explained in the flowcharts in Figures 11 to 17.

[0136] S100(NO)→S101(YES)→S102→S103→S104→S200(NO)→S201(NO)→S202(NO)→S211(NO)→S230(YES)→S231→S232→S233→S250(NO)→300(N O)→S301(YES)→S302→S303→S310(NO)→S311(NO)→S320(NO)→S322(YES)→S350(YES)→S351→S352→S353→S400(YES)→S410→S420→S430

[0137] Figures 22(A) to 23(A) are the same as Figures 21(A) to 22(A). Figure 23(B) shows the scene after container M containing product A has been placed on the scale. In Figure 23(B), the weighed value is displayed (S303). Figure 23(C) shows the scene after the container M button has been touched. Figure 23(D) shows the scene after the net weight and selling price of the product to be weighed have been calculated. In Figure 23(D), a message indicating that container M will be used is displayed (S352), the tare weight (container M) is displayed (S353), and the net weight and selling price of the product to be weighed are displayed (S420).

[0138] (Example of the fourth screen transition) Figures 24 and 25 show examples of the fourth screen transition in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Figures 24 and 25 show screens in several scenarios when the user selects product A, places it on the container, and the device recognizes the user's container.

[0139] (Example of operation) When the user selects product A and places it on the container, and the device recognizes the user's container, the weighing device 20 will operate as follows, for example, as illustrated in the flowcharts in Figures 11 to 17.

[0140] S100(NO)→S101(YES)→S102→S103→S104→S200(NO)→S201(NO)→S202(NO)→S211(NO)→S230(NO)→300 (NO)→S301(YES)→S302→S303→S310(NO)→S311(YES)→S312→S313→S314→S400(YES)→S410→S420→S430

[0141] Figures 24(A) to 24(C) are the same as Figures 18(A) to 18(C). Figure 24(D) shows the scene after the personal container containing product A has been placed on the scale. In Figure 24(D), the weighed value is displayed (S303), a message indicating that the personal container has been recognized is displayed (S312), and the tare weight (of the personal container) is displayed (S314). Figure 25 shows the scene after the net weight and selling price of the product being weighed have been calculated. In Figure 25, the net weight and selling price of the product being weighed are displayed (S420).

[0142] (Example of the fifth screen transition) Figures 26 and 27 show examples of the fifth screen transition in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Figures 26 and 27 show screens in several scenarios when the user performs the following operations in order: selecting product A → placing it (my container not recognized) → responding that the store container has been placed.

[0143] (Example of operation) If the user selects product A, places it on the container (customer does not recognize their own container), and then responds that they have placed the store's container, the weighing device 20 will operate as follows, as illustrated in the flowcharts in Figures 11 to 17.

[0144] S100(NO)→S101(YES)→S102→S103→S104→S200(NO)→S201(NO)→S202(NO)→S211(NO)→S230(NO)→S300(NO)→S301(YES)→S302→S303→S31 0(NO)→S311(NO)→S320(NO)→S322(NO)→S323→S330(YES)→S331→S332→S333→S350(YES)→S351→S352→S353→S400(YES)→S410→S420→S430

[0145] Figures 26(A) to 26(C) are the same as Figures 18(A) to 18(C). Figure 26(D) shows the scene after container M containing product A has been placed on the scale. In Figure 26(D), the weighed value is displayed (S303), a message indicating that the user's container was not recognized and a message asking the user to confirm the placed container are displayed (S323). Figure 27(A) shows the scene where the user answers that the placed container is a store container. Figure 27(B) shows the scene after the user answers that the placed container is a store container. In Figure 27(B), a message indicating that a store container will be used is displayed (S332), and a message prompting the user to select the type of store container is displayed (S333). Figure 27(C) shows the scene when the container M button is touched. Figure 27(D) shows the scene after the net weight and selling price of the weighed product have been calculated. In Figure 27(D), it is indicated that container M will be used (S352), the tare weight (container M) is displayed (S353), and the net selling price of the product to be weighed is displayed (S420).

[0146] (Example of the 6th screen transition) Figures 28 and 29 show examples of the sixth screen transition in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Figures 28 and 29 show screens in several scenarios when the user performs the following operations in order: selecting product A → placing it (My container not recognized) → responding that My container has been placed.

[0147] (Example of operation) If the user selects product A, places it on the scale (my container is not recognized), and then responds that they have placed their container, the weighing device 20 will operate as follows, as illustrated in the flowcharts in Figures 11 to 17.

[0148] S100 (NO) → S101 (YES) → S102 → S103 → S104 → S200 (NO) → S201 (NO) → S202 (NO) → S211 (NO) → S230 (NO) → S300 (NO) → S301 (YES) → S302 → S303 → S310 (NO) → S311 (NO) → S320 (NO) → S322 (NO) → S323 → S330 (NO) → S340 (YES) → S341 → (and so on)

[0149] Figures 28(A) to 28(D) are the same as Figures 26(A) to 26(D). Figure 29(A) shows the scene where the placed container is identified as "my container". Figure 29(B) shows the scene after the placed container is identified as "my container". In Figure 29(B), a message is displayed indicating that "my container" was not recognized, and a message is displayed instructing the user to re-place "my container" (S341).

[0150] (Example of the 7th screen transition) Figures 30 and 31 show examples of the seventh screen transition in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Figures 30 and 31 show screens in several scenarios when the user selects their container, selects product A, and places the container, and the container is recognized.

[0151] (Example of operation) The user performs the following steps: select their container → select product A → place the container on the scale. Once the container is recognized, the weighing device 20 operates as follows, as illustrated in the flowcharts in Figures 11 to 17.

[0152] S100(NO)→S101(NO)→S200(NO)→S201(NO)→S202(YES)→S203→S204→S205→S300(NO)→S301(NO)→S400(NO)→S100(NO)→S101(YES)→S102→S1 03→S104→S200(NO)→S201(YES)→S300(NO)→S301(YES)→S302→S303→S310(NO)→S311(YES)→S312→S313→S314→S400(YES)→S410→S420→S430

[0153] Figure 30(A) shows the state before the operation begins. Figure 30(B) shows the state after the My Container button is touched. Figure 30(C) shows the state after the My Container button has been touched. In Figure 30(C), a message indicating that My Container will be used is displayed (S204). Figure 30(D) shows the state after the Product A button is touched. Figure 31(A) shows the state after the Product A button has been touched. In Figure 31(A), the product name and unit price of Product A are displayed as the product to be weighed (S103). Figure 31(B) shows the state after My Container containing Product A has been placed. In Figure 31(B), the weighed value is displayed (S303), a message indicating that My Container has been recognized is displayed (S312), and the tare weight (of the My Container) is displayed (S314). Figure 31(C) shows the state after the net weight and selling price of the product to be weighed have been calculated. Figure 31(C) shows the net weight and selling price of the product being weighed (S420).

[0154] If the user does not recognize their container after following the steps of selecting their container, selecting product A, and placing it, the process will proceed in the following order: Figure 30(A) → Figure 30(B) → Figure 30(C) → Figure 30(D) → Figure 31(A) → Figure 31(D).

[0155] (Example of operation) If the user selects their container, then selects product A, and places it on the scale, and the device fails to recognize their container, the weighing device 20 will operate as follows, as illustrated in the flowcharts in Figures 11 to 17.

[0156] S100(NO)→S101(NO)→S200(NO)→S201(NO)→S202(YES)→S203→S204→S205→S300(NO)→S301(NO)→S400(NO)→S100(NO)→S101(Y ES)→S102→S103→S104→S200(NO)→S201(YES)→S300(NO)→S301(YES)→S302→S303→S310(NO)→S311(NO)→S320(YES)→S321→Hereafter omitted

[0157] In Figure 31(D), a message is displayed indicating that the container was not recognized, and a message instructing the user to re-place the container (S321).

[0158] (Example of the eighth screen transition) Figures 32 and 33 show examples of the eighth screen transition in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Figures 32 and 33 show screens in several scenarios when the user selects their container, places it, and selects product A, and the container is recognized.

[0159] (Example of operation) If the user selects their container, places it on the container, and then selects product A, and the device recognizes their container, the weighing device 20 will operate as follows, for example, as illustrated in the flowcharts in Figures 11 to 17.

[0160] S100(NO)→S101(NO)→S200(NO)→S201(NO)→S202(YES)→S203→S204→S205→S300(NO)→S301(YES)→S302→S303→S310(NO)→S311(Y ES)→S312→S313→S314→S400(NO)→S100(NO)→S101(YES)→S102→S103→S104→S200(YES)→S300(YES)→S400(YES)→S410→S420→S430

[0161] Figures 32(A) to 32(C) are the same as Figures 30(A) to 30(C). Figure 32(D) shows the scene after the My Container containing product A has been placed on the scale. In Figure 32(D), the weighed value is displayed (S303), a message indicating that the My Container has been recognized is displayed (S312), and the tare weight (of the My Container) is displayed (S314). Figure 33(A) shows the scene following Figure 32(D). Figure 33(B) shows the scene after the product button for product A has been touched. Figure 33(C) shows the scene after the net weight and selling price of the product to be weighed have been calculated. In Figure 33(C), the product name and unit price of product A are displayed as the product to be weighed (S103), and the net weight and selling price of the product to be weighed are displayed (S420).

[0162] If you proceed in the order of selecting your container and then placing it, and your container is not recognized, the screen will transition in the following order: Figure 32(A) → Figure 32(B) → Figure 32(C) → Figure 32(D) → Figure 33(A) → Figure 33(D).

[0163] (Example of operation) If the user selects their container, then selects product A, and places it on the scale, and the device fails to recognize their container, the weighing device 20 will operate as follows, as illustrated in the flowcharts in Figures 11 to 17.

[0164] S100 (NO) → S101 (NO) → S200 (NO) ⇒ S201 (NO) ⇒ S202 (YES) → S203 → S204 → S205 → S300 (NO) → S301 (YES) → S302 → S303 → S310 (NO) → S311 (NO) → S320 (YES) → S321 → (and so on)

[0165] In Figure 33(D), a message is displayed indicating that the container was not recognized, and a message instructing the user to re-place the container (S321).

[0166] (Example of the 9th screen transition) Figures 34 and 35 show examples of the ninth screen transition in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Figures 34 and 35 show screens in several scenarios when the operation is performed in the following order: store container selection → container M selection → product A selection → placement.

[0167] (Example of operation) If the operation is performed in the following order: store container selection → container M selection → product A selection → placement, the weighing device 20 will operate as follows, for example, as explained in the flowcharts in Figures 11 to 17.

[0168] S100(NO)→S101(NO)→S200(NO)→S201(NO)→S202(NO)→S211(NO)→S230(YES)→S231→S232→S233→S250(YES)→S251→S252→S253→S254→S300(NO)→S30 1(NO)→S400(NO)→S100(NO)→S101(YES)→S102→S103→S104→S200(YES)→S300(NO)→S301(YES)→S302→S303→S310(YES)→S400(YES)→S410→S420→S430

[0169] Figure 34(A) shows the state before the operation begins. Figure 34(B) shows the state after the store container button is touched. Figure 34(C) shows the state after the store container button is touched. In Figure 34(C), a message indicating that a store container will be used is displayed (S232), and a message prompting the user to select the type of store container is displayed (S233). Figure 34(D) shows the state after the container M button is touched. Figure 35(A) shows the state after the container M button is touched. In Figure 35(A), a message indicating that container M will be used is displayed (S252), and the tare weight (container M) is displayed (S253). Figure 35(B) shows the state after the product button for product A is touched. Figure 35(C) shows the state after the product button for product A is touched. In Figure 35(C), the product name and unit price of product A are displayed as the product to be weighed (S103), and a message prompting the user to place the product is displayed (S104). Figure 35(D) shows the situation after the calculation of the net weight and selling price of the weighed product. In Figure 35(D), the weighed value is displayed (S303), and the net weight and selling price of the weighed product are displayed (S420).

[0170] (Example of the 10th screen transition) Figure 36 shows an example of the tenth screen transition in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Figure 36 shows the screens in several scenarios when the user operates in the following order: store container selection → container M selection → placement → product A selection.

[0171] (Example of operation) If the operation proceeds in the following order: store container selection → container M selection → placement → product A selection, the weighing device 20 will operate as follows, for example, as explained in the flowcharts in Figures 11 to 17.

[0172] S100(NO)→S101(NO)→S200(NO)→S201(NO)→S202(NO)→S211(NO)→S230(YES)→S231→S232→S233→S250(YES)→S251→S252→S253→S254→S300(NO) →S301(YES)→S302→S303→S310(YES)→S400(NO)→S100(NO)→S101(YES)→S102→S103→S104→S200(YES)→S300(YES)→S400(YES)→S410→S420→S430

[0173] In the 10th screen transition example, the illustrations of the scenes corresponding to Figures 34(A) to 34(D) in the 10th screen transition example are omitted. Figure 36(A) is the same as Figure 35(A). Figure 36(B) shows the scene after container M containing product A has been placed. In Figure 36(B), the weighed value is displayed (S303). Figure 36(C) shows the scene when the product button for product A is touched. Figure 36(D) shows the scene after the net weight and selling price of the weighed product have been calculated. In Figure 36(D), the product name and unit price of product A are displayed as the weighed product (S103), and the net weight and selling price of the weighed product are displayed (S420).

[0174] (Example of screen transition #11) Figures 37 and 38 show examples of the 11th screen transition in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Figures 37 and 38 show screens in several scenarios when the user operates in the following order: store container selection → placement → container M selection → product A selection.

[0175] (Example of operation) If the operation proceeds in the following order: store container selection → placement → container M selection → product A selection, the weighing device 20 will operate as follows, for example, as explained in the flowcharts in Figures 11 to 17.

[0176] S100(NO)→S101(NO)→S200(NO)→S201(NO)→S202(NO)→S211(NO)→S230(YES)→S2 31→S232→S233→S250(NO)→S300(NO)→S301(YES)→S302→S303→S310(NO)→S311(NO )→S320(NO)→S322(YES)→S350(YES)→S351→S352→S353→S400(NO)→S100(NO)→S1 01(YES)→S102→S103→S104→S200(YES)→S300(YES)→S400(YES)→S410→S420→S430

[0177] Figures 37(A) to 37(C) are the same as Figures 34(A) to 34(C). Figure 37(D) shows the scene after container M containing product A has been placed. In Figure 37(D), the weighed value is displayed (S303). Figure 38(A) shows the scene when the container M button is touched. Figure 38(B) shows the scene after the container M button has been touched. In Figure 35(B), a message indicating that container M will be used is displayed (S352), and the tare weight (of container M) is displayed (S353). Figure 38(C) shows the scene when the product button for product A is touched. Figure 38(D) shows the scene after the net weight and selling price of the product to be weighed have been calculated. In Figure 38(D), the product name and unit price of product A are displayed as the product to be weighed (S103), and the net weight and selling price of the product to be weighed are displayed (S420).

[0178] (Example of screen transition 12) Figures 39 and 40 show examples of the 12th screen transition in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Figures 39 and 40 show screens in several scenarios when the operation is performed in the order of placement (recognition of my container) → selection of product A.

[0179] (Example of operation) If the operation is performed in the order of placing the container (recognition of my container) → selecting product A, the weighing device 20 will operate as follows, for example, as explained in the flowcharts in Figures 11 to 17.

[0180] S100(NO)→S101(NO)→S200(NO)→S201(NO)→S202(NO)→S211(NO)→S230(NO)→S300(NO)→S301(YES)→S302→S303→S310(NO)→S311( YES)→S312→S313→S314→S400(NO)→S100(NO)→S101(YES)→S102→S103→S104→S200(YES)→S300(YES)→S400(YES)→S410→S420→Fig. 430

[0181] Figure 39(A) shows the scene before the operation begins. Figure 39(B) shows the scene after the My Container containing product A has been placed on the scale. In Figure 39(B), the weighed value is displayed (S303), a message indicating that the My Container has been recognized is displayed (S312), and the tare weight (of the My Container) is displayed (S314). Figure 39(C) shows the scene following Figure 39(B). Figure 39(D) shows the scene when the product button for product A is touched. Figure 40 shows the scene after the net weight and selling price of the product to be weighed have been calculated. In Figure 40, the product name and unit price of product A are displayed as the product to be weighed (S103), and the net weight and selling price of the product to be weighed are displayed (S420).

[0182] (Example of screen transition 13) Figures 41 and 42 show examples of the 14th screen transition in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Figures 41 and 42 show screens in several scenarios when the user operates in the following order: placement (My container not recognized) → response indicating that the store container has been placed → selection of the store container → selection of container M → selection of product A.

[0183] (Example of operation) If the operation proceeds in the following order: Placement (My container not recognized) → Response indicating that the store container has been placed → Selection of the store container → Selection of container M → Selection of product A, the weighing device 20 will operate as follows, for example, as explained in the flowcharts in Figures 11 to 17.

[0184] S100(NO)→S101(NO)→S200(NO)→S201(NO)→S202(NO)→S211(NO)→S230(NO)→S300 (NO)→S301(YES)→S302→S303→S310(NO)→S311(NO)→S320(NO)→S322(NO)→S323→S3 30(YES)→S331→S332→S333→S350(YES)→S351→S352→S353→S400(NO)→S100(NO)→S 101(YES)→S102→S103→S104→S200(YES)→S300(YES)→S400(YES)→S410→S420→S430

[0185] Figure 41(A) shows the scene before the operation begins. Figure 41(B) shows the scene after container M containing product A has been placed on the scale. In Figure 41(B), the weighed value is displayed (S303), a message indicating that the container was not recognized is displayed, and a message confirming the placed container is displayed (S323). Figure 41(C) shows the scene when it is confirmed that the placed container is a store container. Figure 41(D) shows the scene after it is confirmed that the placed container is a store container. In Figure 41(D), it is displayed that a store container will be used (S332), and a message prompting the user to select the type of store container is displayed (S333). Figure 42(A) shows the scene when the container M button is touched. Figure 42(B) shows the scene after the container M button has been touched. In Figure 42(B), it is displayed that container M will be used (S352), and the tare weight (container M) is displayed (S353). Figure 42(C) shows the scene when the product button for product A is touched. Figure 42(D) shows the situation after the calculation of the net weight and selling price of the product to be weighed. In Figure 42(D), the product name and unit price of product A are displayed as the product to be weighed (S103), and the net weight and selling price of the product to be weighed are displayed (S420).

[0186] (Example of screen transition 14) Figure 43 shows an example of the 14th screen transition in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Figure 43 shows the screens in several scenarios when the user performs the operation in the following order: Placement (My container not recognized) → Confirmation that My container has been placed.

[0187] (Example of operation) If the operation is performed in the following order: Placement (My container not recognized) → Response indicating that My container has been placed, the weighing device 20 will operate as follows, for example, as explained in the flowcharts in Figures 11 to 17.

[0188] S100(NO)→S101(NO)→S200(NO)→S201(NO)→S202(NO)→S211(NO)→S230(NO)→S300(NO)→S301(YES)→S302→S303→S310(NO)→S311(NO)→S320(NO)→S322(NO)→S323→S330(NO)→S340(YES)→S341→and so on

[0189] Figure 43(A) shows the scene before the operation begins. Figure 43(B) shows the scene after the custom container containing product A has been placed. In Figure 43(B), the weighed value is displayed (S303), and a message indicating that the custom container was not recognized and a message asking to confirm the placed container are displayed (S323). Figure 43(C) shows the scene where it is confirmed that the placed container is the custom container. Figure 43(D) shows the scene after it is confirmed that the placed container is the custom container. In Figure 43(D), a message indicating that the custom container was not recognized and a message asking to re-place the custom container are displayed (S341).

[0190] Let me add some information about the timing of when the weighing device 20 reads the wireless tag. The timing of when the weighing device 20 reads the wireless tag may be, for example, during fluctuations in the weighed value (before stabilization), or after the weighed value has stabilized (for example, immediately after stabilization). It may also be after the device has recognized that a container has been placed using technologies other than weighing, such as image recognition. Note that the timing of reading the wireless tag and the timing of determining whether the container has been recognized (step S311 in Figure 16) do not necessarily have to be the same. In other words, instead of immediately determining whether the container has been recognized after reading the wireless tag, one or more other processes may be performed after reading the wireless tag, and the determination of whether the container has been recognized may be made after the execution of one or more other processes. In other words, the wireless tag may be read prior to determining whether the container has been recognized, rather than only reading the wireless tag when it is time to determine whether the container has been recognized.

[0191] Alternatively, the system may be configured to read the wireless tag only when either or both of the following conditions are met: product specification, container selection (personal container), or other conditions. Note that the flowchart examples in Figures 11 to 17 allow for determination of whether it is a personal container (i.e., the wireless tag can be read) even if both of the above conditions are not met (Figure 39, etc.).

[0192] Furthermore, the wireless tag reader unit 29 may continuously emit radio waves to simplify control. If it continuously emits radio waves, the wireless tag reading operation may be turned OFF before the above conditions related to the timing of reading the wireless tag are met, and turned ON after the above conditions are met. This prevents the accidental acquisition of unnecessary information (information from wireless tags of other My Containers in the vicinity) even if radio waves are continuously emitted.

[0193] Although embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are merely examples, and the specific configuration is not limited to these embodiments. Designs and the like that do not depart from the spirit of the invention are also included.

[0194] For example, the above example describes a scenario where the user navigates to another screen after operating the store container button, and the store container type button is displayed. However, the store container type button may also be displayed on the same screen (without navigating to another screen) after operating the store container button. Alternatively, the store container type button may be displayed without displaying the store container button. In other words, the same screen may display, for example, a My Container button, a Store Container (Container S) button, a Store Container (Container M) button, and a Store Container (Container L) button, all of which can be selected.

[0195] Furthermore, although the above describes an example in which the weighing device 20 calculates and displays the net weight after all three steps—product identification, acquisition of tare weight, and acquisition of weighed value—are completed, regardless of the order in which these steps are performed (steps S400, S410, and S420 in Figure 11), the net weight may also be calculated and displayed for the unidentified product if the acquisition of tare weight and acquisition of weighed value are completed even before product identification. For example, the net weight may be displayed as shown in Figures 32(D) and 36(B).

[0196] Furthermore, although the above describes a configuration in which the weighing device 20 performs communication (reading and writing information) with the wireless tag, another device different from the weighing device 20 may perform communication with the wireless tag, and the weighing device 20 may perform communication with the wireless tag via the other device. In other words, although the above describes a configuration in which the weighing device 20 is equipped with a wireless tag reading unit 29 (an integrated configuration in which a weighing device equipped with a weighing function also has a wireless tag reading function), it may also be composed of a weighing device without a wireless tag reading unit 29 and another device equipped with a wireless tag reading unit 29 (a configuration consisting of a separate weighing device equipped with a weighing function and a device equipped with a wireless tag reading function). That is, for example, the weighing system may be composed of an operation display unit, a weighing unit, and a wireless tag reading unit (it may also be configured as a weighing system in which multiple devices realize each function of the weighing device 20 (Figure 3)).

[0197] Furthermore, as explained above, the weighing device 20 used when registering a personal container and the weighing device 20 used when purchasing a product may be the same device 20 or different devices 20. However, it is not necessary to use a weighing device 20 when registering a personal container. For example, the device used to register a personal container only needs to have at least a weighing function, a wireless tag reading function, and an output function that outputs a message indicating that the writing of the tare weight is complete.

[0198] Furthermore, although the weighing device 20 printed and issued the label (Figure 9) in the above example, the device that prints and issues the label may be a separate unit.

[0199] Furthermore, while the above example describes weight information being written to an RFID label, the information written to an RFID label is not limited to weight information. For example, in addition to weight information, the registration date (registration date and time) and the registration expiration date (e.g., one year from the time of registration) may also be written. If the registration details are confirmed (described later), the confirmation date (confirmation date and time) may also be written. In addition, information about the registered device (identification information that can identify the registered device) and information about the registered store (identification information that can identify the registered store, etc.) may also be written. In addition, information about the characteristics of the container (material, shape, color, etc.) may also be written. Information about the characteristics of the container may be obtained, for example, by displaying a screen with a selection field (options) when registering the container and having the registrant (store clerk, customer) select it. In addition, when registering the container, a serial number may be written as a management number. The above serial number may be associated with customer information (membership number). In addition, the membership number may be written as a management number.

[0200] Furthermore, while the above describes the processes related to My Containers performed by the weighing device 20, specifically the process of registering unregistered My Containers (see Figures 7 and 9) and the process of purchasing products using registered My Containers (see Figures 8, 11 to 17, etc.), the processes related to My Containers performed by the weighing device 20 are not limited to these two processes. For example, the weighing device 20 may perform a process to confirm the registration details of registered My Containers. The following is an outline of the process for confirming the registration details of registered My Containers.

[0201] (Outline of the process for verifying the registered details of your container) (1) The weighing device 20 weighs the registered My Container (without any products inside) placed on the platform and reads the weight information of the My Container from the RFID label on the My Container. (2) The weighing device 20 compares the measured value (i.e., the current weight of the container) with the weight information read from the RFID label (i.e., the past weight of the container at the time of registration). In principle, the two (measured value and weight information read from the RFID label) should match, but if the container is damaged or deteriorated, or if there is any fraud (for example, fraudulent activity such as intentionally making the container heavier at the time of registration, or fraudulent activity such as replacing the RFID label with that of another container), the two will not match. (3) The weighing device 20 outputs the result of comparing the two. For example, if the two match (or if the difference between the two is within a predetermined tolerance range), the weighing device 20 displays that the registered information (weight information read from the RFID label) is normal. If the two do not match (or if the difference between the two is outside a predetermined tolerance range), the weighing device 20 displays that the registered information is abnormal. In addition, if the two do not match, the weighing device 20 may rewrite the registered information to the measured value, for example, based on the user's operation.

[0202] Furthermore, as described above, if the RFID label is used to write date and time information (registration date, registration expiration date, confirmation date), the weighing device 20 may display a message prompting the user to perform a process to confirm the registration details of the container based on the date and time information.

[0203] As mentioned above, the weighing device 20 may output some or all of the information written on the RFID label at the time of registration, or it may output information based on the information written on the RFID label. For example, when the weighing device 20 recognizes My Container, it may display the management number in the tare display field 1202, or it may issue a label with the management number printed on it. Also, as mentioned above, when the weighing device 20 recognizes My Container, it may display a message prompting it to perform a process to confirm the registration details of My Container based on the date and time information of the registration expiration date, or it may issue a label with the message printed on it.

[0204] (Writing to the wireless tag at the time of sale) The above describes a scenario where, when purchasing a product using a personal container, information is read from the RFID label (more specifically, the wireless tag), but the information is not written to the RFID label. In other words, information is written to the RFID label when registering the personal container, but not when purchasing a product using that container. However, it is also possible to write information to the RFID label when purchasing a product using a personal container.

[0205] For example, when purchasing a product using a personal container, the selling price may be written to the RFID label. As long as the RFID label can be read by at least one device (not shown) capable of performing registration processing, the weighing device 20 can write the selling price to the RFID label, allowing the selling price to be obtained via the RFID label by at least one device capable of performing registration processing. Therefore, the weighing device 20 does not need to print or issue a label (Figure 9) to register the product (and settle the payment after registration). The weighing device 20 may also write the product name, information that identifies the product, the unit price of the product, the net weight, etc.

[0206] Furthermore, the weighing device 20 may write information that constitutes the purchase history, such as the number of uses and the amount spent, to the RFID label. In other words, each time My Container is used, the purchase information for that My Container is stored, and My Container itself may manage (maintain) the purchase history of purchases made using that My Container. Flexible (tiered) discounts based on the purchase history can be implemented. In addition, the purchase history may be stored externally to My Container (for example, the weighing device 20, a management device not shown, a cloud server, etc.) in association with a management number (serial number, membership number).

[0207] (Display of product buttons) Furthermore, although the above describes an example in which the weighing device 20 displays product buttons without any particular restrictions, the weighing device 20 may also display product buttons for products that are likely to be operated (specified) (i.e., products that have been taken out by the customer into a container (personal container, store container) in the display area (products that can be considered to have been taken out into a container)) and not display product buttons for products that are not likely to be operated. This makes it easier to specify products.

[0208] For example, the system may be able to detect the removal of items from each display container (e.g., display containers 300, 400), and when the removal of an item from a display container is detected, the weighing device 20 may be notified that an item has been removed. Specifically, a small device equipped with a sensor unit capable of detecting the movement of the device itself (tilting, rotation, etc.) and a communication unit capable of outputting information to an external source (e.g., the weighing device 20) may be installed on the top lid 310 of the display container 300, and when the top lid 310 of a display container 300 is lifted, the weighing device 20 may display a button corresponding to the item inside that display container 300 as the button for the item that was removed. Similarly, the small device may be installed on the press-button 410 of the display container 400, and when the press-button 410 of a display container 400 is pressed down, the weighing device 20 may display a button corresponding to the item inside that display container 400 as the button for the item that was removed.

[0209] The weighing device 20 receives a notification each time a product is taken out. If the weighing device 20 receives multiple notifications for a particular product, it displays the product button for that product for the number of notifications received (however, the display of the product button for one notification disappears after one operation). For example, if there are three consecutive notifications for product A (if product A is taken out three times in a row), the weighing device 20 stores three times as the number of times the product button for product A has been displayed. After the first and second operations of the product button for product A, the product button for product A is not erased, but after the third operation, the product button for product A is erased. This allows the product button for a particular product to remain displayed for each customer, even if multiple customers take out a particular product in a relatively short period of time. If the interval between taking out operations for a particular product is short (for example, if another taking operation is detected within a predetermined time), it may be determined that there was only one taking operation for that product.

[0210] In addition to the methods described above, another method may be used in which, for example, electronic product tags (product tags equipped with a vibration detection function and a communication function to the weighing device 20) are placed near each product, and when one of these product tags touches another product tag near the product in question, which serves as a purchase declaration for that product, the weighing device 20 is notified that a purchase declaration has been made for that product.

[0211] In addition, product buttons for products other than those most likely to be clicked will also be displayed. However, product buttons for products most likely to be clicked may be given priority over those for other products (e.g., displayed in an easily accessible position, larger size, in a more prominent color).

[0212] Furthermore, in the above procedure, an RFID label (label 80 with a wireless tag 81 attached) is attached to the container, the container with the RFID label attached is weighed, and the weighed value is written to the RFID label (Figure 7). However, the procedure for creating a registered container with an RFID label that has the weighed value written on it is not limited to this. For example, an RFID label with the weighed value already written on it may be issued and then attached to the container.

[0213] (Configuration 1) For example, a label issuing device is provided separately from the weighing device 20, which includes a wireless tag reader and an RFID label issuing unit that prints and issues RFID labels (the weighing device 20 and the label issuing device can communicate with each other). The weighing device 20 weighs the container and outputs (transmits) the weighed value to the label issuing device. The label issuing device has, for example, a roll of RFID labels stored inside and writes the weighed value input (received) from the weighing device 20 onto one RFID label (the first RFID label). The label issuing device cuts the RFID label on which the weighed value has been written, for example, using an auto-cut function, and issues it (it may also be cut along a perforated line after issuance). In addition to writing the tare mass information (weighed value) to the wireless tag 81, the label issuing device may also print the tare mass information on the RFID label and issue it. The RFID label issued as described above is then affixed to the container weighed by the weighing device 20.

[0214] (Configuration 2) The weighing device 20 may be equipped with an RFID label issuing unit. In other words, in the configuration of (Configuration 1) above, the weighing device 20 and the label issuing unit exist as separate units, but they may be integrated. The weighing device 20 may be equipped with an RFID label issuing unit in addition to the printing unit 28, or the printing unit 28 may also have the function of an RFID label issuing unit. Furthermore, the printing unit 28 may also have the function of a wireless tag reader. The weighing device 20 may be equipped with separate wireless tag readers for registering personal containers and wireless tag readers for purchasing products, or it may be equipped with one wireless tag reader used for both.

[0215] The information to be written and the information to be printed can be set as appropriate in the format settings. Specifically, various usage methods exist, such as writing the tare weight, registration date, and store name on the wireless tag 81, and printing only the tare weight and store name on the label 80 (common to configurations 1 and 2).

[0216] In the above example, as shown in Figure 1, customers place their desired products into containers in the display area. However, it is also possible for store staff to place the products into containers. For example, store staff may place products (such as prepared foods) displayed in a showcase into containers brought by the customer, according to the customer's order.

[0217] The following is a summary of the embodiments. [Technical field] This invention relates to a weighing device, a method for managing tare weight, and a method for calculating selling price. [Background technology] For example, a system for weighing and selling goods is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art document] [Patent] [Patent Document 1] Utility Model Publication No. 6-50740 [Overview of the prefecture] [Problems the invention aims to solve] However, there was room for improvement in the sales of goods that are sold by weight. This invention has been made in view of these circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a technology that improves the sales of goods that are sold by weight. [Means for solving the problem] (1) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention is a weighing device characterized by comprising: a weighing means for weighing the tare mass, which is the mass (weight) of a container (for example, the unregistered My Container 71 in Figure 7); a writing means (for example, the means in step S12 of Figure 10) for writing the tare mass weighed by the weighing means to a contactless ID medium (for example, a wireless tag 81) attached to a label (for example, the label 80 in Figure 7); and an output means (for example, the means in step S13 of Figure 10) for outputting a message indicating that the writing of the tare mass by the writing means has been completed. According to the weighing device described in (1) above, sales of goods that are weighed and sold will be improved. Recently, with increased attention on environmental issues, reuse has gained popularity. In weigh-and-serve sales, the use of customer-provided containers (my own containers) is also on the rise. Because the containers provided by customers are diverse, tare weighting becomes a problem. With the weighing device described in (1) above, for example, the weight of the container provided by the customer (tare weight) can be written to a contactless ID medium. Therefore, during weigh-and-serve sales, if the tare weight written to the contactless ID medium can be read, tare weighting can be performed efficiently (for example, simply and accurately). Furthermore, since an output indicating that the writing of the tare weight is complete is displayed, it provides peace of mind. (2) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a weighing device comprising: weighing means for weighing the tare mass, which is the mass of a container; writing means for writing the tare mass weighed by the weighing means to a contactless ID medium attached to a label; and issuing means for issuing a label to which the contactless ID medium on which the tare mass has been written by the writing means has been attached, wherein the writing to the contactless ID medium is performed in the process of issuing a label by the issuing means. According to the weighing device described in (2) above, the sales of goods that are weighed and sold will be improved. Furthermore, according to the weighing device described in (2) above, the process is streamlined and easy to understand, as the label issuance process includes writing to a contactless ID medium. (3) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a weighing device comprising: weighing means for weighing the mass of a container containing contents; reading means for reading the tare mass, which is the mass of the container, from a contactless ID medium attached to a label; operation receiving means for receiving operations; and calculation means for calculating the mass of the contents in the container, wherein, when the tare mass is read by the reading means, the calculation means calculates the mass of the contents based on the mass of the container containing contents weighed by the weighing means and the tare mass read by the reading means, and when the tare mass is not read by the reading means, the calculation means calculates the mass of the contents based on the mass of the container containing contents weighed by the weighing means and the tare mass determined by the operation received by the operation receiving means. The weighing device described in (3) above improves the sales of goods that are weighed and sold. For example, if the tare weight is read, the weight of the contents is automatically calculated, making it efficient and easy to understand, even in self-service weighing systems. Furthermore, even if the tare weight is not read, the weight of the contents can be calculated through operation. (4) The weighing device according to (3) above, characterized in that the operation receiving means is capable of receiving an operation to select one of several types of containers with different tare masses (for example, container S, container M, and container L), and the calculation means calculates the mass of the contents based on the mass of the container containing the contents weighed by the weighing means and the tare mass of the container selected by the operation received by the operation receiving means, if the tare mass is not read by the reading means. According to the weighing device described in (4) above, sales of goods that are weighed and sold will be improved. (5) The weighing device according to (3) above, comprising a tare mass determination means for determining a predetermined ratio as the tare mass to the mass of a container containing contents weighed by the weighing means, wherein if the tare mass is not read by the reading means, the calculation means calculates the mass of the contents based on the mass of the container containing contents weighed by the weighing means and the tare mass determined by the tare mass determination means. According to the weighing device described in (5) above, sales of goods that are weighed and sold will be improved. (6) The reading means is a weighing device according to any one of (3) to (5) above, characterized in that it reads the tare mass on the condition that the container is placed on the mounting section. According to the weighing device described in (6) above, the sales of goods that are weighed and sold will be improved. For example, since it reads the weight of the container on which it is placed, it can prevent misidentification. (7) The reading means is a weighing device according to any one of (3) to (5) above, characterized in that it reads the tare weight on the condition that the product has been identified. According to the weighing device described in (7) above, the sales of goods that are weighed and sold will be improved. For example, because weighing is performed after confirming the customer's intention to weigh, misidentification can be prevented. Also, because it follows an intuitive sequence, misidentification, such as confusing a container with a different product, can be prevented. (8) The weighing device according to any one of (3) to (5) above, characterized in that the operation receiving means is capable of receiving an operation to select whether or not the container is one whose tare mass can be read by the reading means, and the reading means reads the tare mass on the condition that the operation receiving means has received an operation to select whether or not the container is one whose tare mass can be read. According to the weighing device described in (8) above, the sales of goods that are weighed and sold will be improved. For example, since weighing is performed after confirming the customer's intention to have the goods weighed, misidentification can be prevented. (9) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a management method for managing the tare mass of a container using a weighing device, the method comprising: a weighing step of weighing the tare mass of a reusable container; a writing step of writing the tare mass weighed in the weighing step to a contactless ID medium attached to a label; and an output step of outputting a statement indicating that the writing of the tare mass by the writing step has been completed. According to the management method described in (9) above, sales of products that are sold by weight will be improved. (10) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a method for managing the tare mass of a container using a weighing device, the method comprising: a weighing step of weighing the tare mass of a reusable container; a writing step of writing the tare mass weighed in the weighing step to a contactless ID medium attached to a label; and an issuing step of issuing a label to which the contactless ID medium on which the tare mass has been written in the writing step has been attached. According to the management method described in (10) above, sales of products that are sold by weight will be improved. (11) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a method for calculating a selling price using a weighing device, characterized in that it includes: a first weighing step of weighing the tare mass, which is the mass of the container; a recording step of recording the tare mass weighed in the first weighing step on a contactless ID medium; a second weighing step of weighing the mass of the container after the product has been placed inside; a reading step of reading the tare mass of the container from a contactless ID medium attached to the container when the mass of the container after the product has been placed inside has been weighed; a calculation step of calculating the selling price of the product from the mass of the container after the product has been placed inside, which was weighed in the second weighing step, and the tare mass read in the reading step; and an issuing step of issuing a label on which the selling price has been printed. According to the pricing method described in (11) above, sales of goods sold by weight will improve.

[0218] Furthermore, the program for realizing the weighing device 20 described above may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program may be loaded into a computer system and executed. Here, "computer system" includes hardware such as the OS and peripheral devices. "Computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs, CD-ROMs, and storage devices such as hard disks built into a computer system. Moreover, "computer-readable recording medium" also includes volatile memory (RAM) inside a computer system that acts as a server or client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line, which retains the program for a certain period of time. Furthermore, the above program may be transmitted from the computer system that stores the program in a storage device, etc., to another computer system via a transmission medium or by transmission waves in the transmission medium. Here, "transmission medium" for transmitting the program refers to a medium that has the function of transmitting information, such as a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. Furthermore, the above program may be for realizing only a part of the functions described above. Furthermore, the aforementioned functions may be implemented in combination with programs already recorded in the computer system, such as so-called differential files (differential programs). [Explanation of Symbols]

[0219] 20...Measuring device 21…CPU 22…ROM 23…RAM 24... Scanner section 25...Measuring part 26…Touch display 27…Audio output section 28…Printing Department 29… Wireless Tag Reading Club 300…Display container 310... Top lid 400...Display container 410... Pressed part

Claims

1. A weighing device used for weighing bulk-sold goods, which can use two types of containers as purchase containers, Measuring means and An operation reception means for receiving operations, A means for obtaining the tare mass, which is the mass of the container, A calculation means for calculating the mass of the goods inside a container based on the tare mass obtained by the tare mass acquisition means and the mass of the container containing the goods measured by the weighing means. Equipped with, The aforementioned operation reception means is The system can accept the following operations: selecting either a Type 1 container or a Type 2 container as the type of container to be used; and, if the system accepts the selection of a Type 2 container, selecting one Type 2 container from among several Type 2 containers. The tare mass acquisition means is When the operation receiving means receives an operation to select a first type of container, the tare weight of the first type of container is obtained by reading the tare weight of the container from the contactless ID medium attached to the first type of container. When the operation receiving means receives an operation to select a second type of container, the operation receiving means further receives an operation to select one second type of container from among a plurality of second type containers, thereby obtaining the tare mass of that second type of container. A weighing device characterized by the following features.

2. The first type of container is a container to which a label with the contactless ID medium attached is affixed. The second type of container is a container that does not have the aforementioned label attached. The weighing device according to feature 1.

3. The second type of container is one in which the tare mass is stored in the memory unit. The first type of container is one in which the tare mass is not stored in the memory unit. The weighing device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The first type of container is one brought in by the customer. The second type of container is the container sold by the store. A weighing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. A method for calculating the selling price. Equipped with, The aforementioned selling price calculation means is When the operation receiving means receives an operation to select a first type of container, the sales price is calculated based on the mass of the product in the container calculated by the calculation means and the unit price of the product. The weighing device according to feature 1.

6. A method for calculating the selling price. Equipped with, The aforementioned selling price calculation means is When the operation receiving means receives an operation to select a second type of container and an operation to select one second type of container from among a plurality of second type containers, the calculation means calculates the selling price based on the mass of the product in the container calculated by the calculation means, the unit price of the product, and the unit price of the one second type of container selected by the operation receiving means. The weighing device according to feature 1.

7. A sales method for selling bulk goods using a weighing device that can use two types of containers as purchase containers, Weighing step, An operation acceptance step for accepting operations, A tare mass acquisition step to obtain the tare mass, which is the mass of the container, A calculation step which calculates the mass of the goods inside the container based on the tare mass obtained in the tare mass acquisition step and the mass of the container containing the goods weighed in the weighing step. Includes, The aforementioned operation acceptance step is: The process includes a step of receiving an operation to select either a first type of container or a second type of container as the type of container to be used, and a step of receiving an operation to select one second type of container from among a plurality of second type containers if an operation to select a second type of container has been received, The tare mass acquisition step is as follows: When an operation to select a first type of container is received in the aforementioned operation acceptance step, the tare weight of the first type of container is obtained by reading the tare weight of the container from the contactless ID medium attached to the first type of container. If the operation to select a second type of container is received in the aforementioned operation acceptance step, the tare mass of the second type of container is obtained by further receiving an operation to select one second type of container from among a plurality of second type of containers in the aforementioned operation acceptance step. A sales method characterized by the following:

8. A program that enables a computer to function as a weighing device used for weighing bulk goods that can use two types of containers for purchase, The aforementioned computer, measuring means, An operation receiving means for receiving operations, A means for obtaining the tare mass, which is the mass of the container. Calculation means for calculating the mass of the goods inside a container based on the tare mass obtained by the tare mass acquisition means and the mass of the container containing the goods measured by the weighing means. To make it function as, The aforementioned operation reception means is The system can accept the following operations: selecting either a Type 1 container or a Type 2 container as the type of container to be used; and, if the system accepts the selection of a Type 2 container, selecting one Type 2 container from among several Type 2 containers. The tare mass acquisition means is When the operation receiving means receives an operation to select a first type of container, the tare weight of the first type of container is obtained by reading the tare weight of the container from the contactless ID medium attached to the first type of container. When the operation receiving means receives an operation to select a second type of container, the operation receiving means further receives an operation to select one second type of container from among a plurality of second type containers, thereby obtaining the tare mass of that second type of container. A program characterized by the following features.

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