Reading system and program

Abstract

To easily allow efficient reading of a wireless tag.SOLUTION: A wireless tag makes a transition alternately between a first state and a second state according to reading of information. Designation means designates, for each of a plurality of business operations, only the first state or the first state and the second state as an object of reading, and designates a suitable reading state. The reading state is one of a first reading state in which after reading of the wireless tag, a response from the wireless tag is blocked over a first blocking time regardless of the presence or absence of power supply to the wireless tag, a second reading state in which when periodic power supply to the wireless tag is continued after reading of the wireless tag, a response from the wireless tag is blocked over a second blocking time, a third reading state in which when periodic power supply to the wireless tag is continued after reading of the wireless tag, a response from the wireless tag is blocked over a third blocking time, and a fourth reading state in which when power supply to the wireless tag is continued after reading of the wireless tag, a response from the wireless tag is blocked.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present embodiment relates to a reading system and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, inventory management of items to which a wireless tag is attached is performed by reading data stored in the wireless tag. The wireless tag is, for example, a tag (IC tag) including an IC chip from which data can be read remotely by radio waves of a predetermined frequency band. For reading data, for example, RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification), that is, an automatic recognition technology using short-range wireless communication, is used. For the above-mentioned inventory management, for example, a wireless tag reader as disclosed in Patent Document 1 and a read control device that manages and controls the same are used. The wireless tag reader emits radio waves toward the wireless tag and receives the radio waves emitted by the wireless tag that has received the radio waves, thereby reading data (hereinafter also referred to as tag data) stored in the wireless tag. The wireless tag reader also reads tag data while distinguishing between unread wireless tags and read wireless tags by using a function called an inventory flag mounted on the wireless tag.

[0003] In inventory management, etc., there are cases where data registered in a large number of wireless tags must be read. In such cases, due to various reasons, reading of all the wireless tags cannot be completed in one go, so the reading is repeated several times to eliminate missed readings (remaining readings).

[0004] In order to perform this task efficiently and complete it in a short time, it is desirable to change the settings of the reader taking into consideration the progress of the reading and the characteristics of the wireless tag and antenna. However, since the retail store clerks who actually perform this task are not necessarily familiar with the reading devices, it is often difficult to switch to the appropriate settings at the appropriate time. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to easily enable efficient reading of wireless tags. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A reading system according to an embodiment reads information from a wireless tag that alternates between a first state and a second state in response to information being read, and includes a reading means for reading information from the wireless tag, and for each of a plurality of tasks, designating only the first state or both the first state and the second state as a reading target, and including, as reading states by the reading means, a first reading state in which, after the reading means has read a response from the wireless tag, a response from the wireless tag is inhibited for a first inhibition time regardless of whether power is being supplied to the wireless tag, and a second reading state in which, after the reading means has read a response from the wireless tag, a response from the wireless tag is inhibited for a first inhibition time regardless of whether power is being supplied to the wireless tag, a designation means for designating one of a second reading state in which a response from the wireless tag is inhibited while power is being supplied and for a second inhibition time after the power supply is cut off, a third reading state in which a response from the wireless tag is inhibited while power is being supplied and for a third inhibition time after the power supply is cut off after the reading means has read the response from the wireless tag, and a fourth reading state in which a response from the wireless tag is inhibited if power supply to the wireless tag is continued after the reading means has read the response from the wireless tag, and a reading control means for controlling the reading means in accordance with the designation by the designation means. The plurality of operations include at least an inventory operation in which a plurality of wireless tags are to be read, and a filtering operation in which wireless tags whose information was not read in the inventory operation are to be read, and the designation means designates the read state by the reading means for the inventory operation to any one of the first read state, the second read state, and the third read state, and designates the read state by the reading means for the filtering operation to the fourth read state, or designates the read state by the reading means for the inventory operation to any one of the second read state and the third read state, and designates the read state by the reading means for the filtering operation to any one of the fourth read state and the first read state. do. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a reading system according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the RFID tag reader according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4]FIG. 4 is a state transition diagram of an RFID tag when the RFID tag reader of the embodiment reads an RFID tag. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of persistence time in each session of the RFID tag according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the RFID tag reading device and the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the contents of settings stored in the setting storage unit. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the business master. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of an output master. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the Q value master. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the polarization type master. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a session master and a target master. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the automatic search master. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a GUI displayed by the display unit. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a GUI displayed by the display unit. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a GUI displayed by the display unit. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing performed by the reading system. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the inventory operation screen. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of the inventory operation screen. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of the inventory operation screen. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of the inventory operation screen. [Figure 22]FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of the inventory operation screen. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of the inventory operation screen. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of the inventory operation screen. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of an inventory operation screen. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an example of the inventory operation screen. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of the details screen. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a diagram showing an example of the search operation screen. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an example of the search operation screen. [Diagram 30] FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of the search operation screen. [Diagram 31] FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of the search operation screen. [Diagram 32] FIG. 32 is a diagram illustrating an example of the appearance of the reading system according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] (First embodiment) Hereinafter, a reading system, a wireless tag reading device, a reading control device, and a program according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0009] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a reading system according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the reading system 1 has an RFID tag reading device 10 and an information processing device 20. The RFID tag reading device 10 is an example of a wireless tag reading device. The information processing device 20 is an example of a reading control device. The RFID tag TG is an example of a wireless tag. The RFID tag reading device 10 and the information processing device 20 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate wirelessly, for example, via Bluetooth (registered trademark) or the like.

[0010] The RFID tag reader 10 reads the tag data stored in the RFID tag TG in a non-contact manner. The RFID tag TG is attached to an item G such as a product, and stores the tag data in a storage medium (not shown). The tag data includes a tag identifier capable of identifying the RFID tag TG itself, an item identifier capable of identifying the type of item G to which the RFID tag TG is attached, a CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Code), etc. The RFID tag reader 10 transmits the tag data read from the RFID tag TG to the information processing device 20.

[0011] Here, Fig. 32 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the reading system 1 according to the embodiment, where (a) shows a state seen from the front side (side facing the product) and (b) shows a state seen from the back side (side facing the operator). The RFID tag reader 10 of this embodiment is a handy type radio tag reader as exemplified in Fig. 32, and can be carried by an operator. When carrying it, the operator uses a handle 17 provided on the back of the RFID tag reader 10 as a handle. For example, the RFID tag reader 10 is directed by the operator toward a shelf or the like on which the articles G are placed, and reads tag data from the RFID tags TG attached to each of the articles G.

[0012] 1, the information processing device 20 receives the tag data transmitted from the RFID tag reader 10 and performs inventory management of products based on the tag data. The information processing device 20 also controls the operation of the RFID tag reader 10 to read wireless tags.

[0013] The information processing device 20 of this embodiment is separate from the RFID tag reader 10 as shown in Fig. 1, and is realized by a terminal device such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal as shown in Fig. 32, and is detachably attached to an attachment part 18 provided on the RFID tag reader 10. However, in carrying out the present invention, the information processing device 20 does not have to be configured so as to be attachable to the RFID tag reader 10, or the information processing device 20 and the RFID tag reader 10 may be configured as one unit.

[0014] Next, a description will be given of the hardware configuration of the RFID tag reader 10 and the information processing device 20. FIG.

[0015] 2, the RFID tag reader 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, and a storage unit 14. The CPU 11 is an example of a processor, and controls the overall operation of the RFID tag reader 10. The ROM 12 stores various programs. The RAM 13 is used as a working memory for expanding various data.

[0016] The CPU 11, the ROM 12, the RAM 13, and the storage unit 14 are connected via a bus or the like. Here, the CPU 11, the ROM 12, and the RAM 13 constitute a control unit 100. The control unit 100 executes various control processes by the CPU 11 operating in accordance with programs stored in the ROM 12 and the storage unit 14.

[0017] The storage unit 14 is configured with a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off. The storage unit 14 stores various programs and setting information.

[0018] Further, the control unit 100 is connected to a reading unit 15 and a communication unit 16 via a bus or the like. The reading unit 15 has an antenna 151, a transmitting unit 152, and a receiving unit 153.

[0019] The antenna 151 is, for example, of a linear polarization switching type. As is well known, a circularly polarized antenna has the advantage that it can read the RFID tag TG regardless of its orientation, but it has a shorter reading distance than a linearly polarized antenna and it is difficult to eliminate final missed readings. In contrast, a linear polarization switching type antenna needs to switch the direction of polarization, but it is possible to eliminate final missed readings by performing reading in two directions, the horizontal direction and the vertical direction.

[0020] The transmitting unit 152 supplies the antenna 151 with power for emitting radio waves from the antenna 151. The receiving unit 153 receives radio waves transmitted from the RFID tag TG via the antenna 151. Under the control of the control unit 100 (reading processing unit 101, see FIG. 6, described later), the reading unit 15 emits radio waves for reading the RFID tag TG and receives radio waves emitted by a wireless tag that has received the radio waves, thereby reading tag data stored in the RFID tag TG. The communication unit 16 is a communication interface that complies with a wireless communication standard such as Bluetooth (registered trademark). The communication unit 16 performs wireless communication with the information processing device 20.

[0021] Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of the information processing device 20. As shown in Fig. 3, the information processing device 20 includes a CPU 21, a ROM 22, a RAM 23, a storage unit 24, and the like.

[0022] The CPU 21 is an example of a processor, and controls the overall operation of the information processing device 20. The ROM 22 stores various programs. The RAM 23 is used as a working memory for expanding various data. The RAM 23 also holds a reading buffer BF for storing tag data read by the RFID tag reader 10.

[0023] The CPU 21, ROM 22, RAM 23, and storage unit 24 are connected via a bus or the like. Here, the CPU 21, ROM 22, and RAM 23 constitute a control unit 200. The control unit 200 is connected to a display unit 25, an operation unit 26, a communication unit 27, and the like via a bus or the like. The control unit 200 executes various control processes for comprehensively controlling the above-mentioned units (the display unit 25, the operation unit 26, the communication unit 27, and the like) by the CPU 21 operating in accordance with programs stored in the ROM 22 and the storage unit 24.

[0024] The storage unit 24 is configured with a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off. The storage unit 24 stores various programs and setting information.

[0025] The storage unit 24 stores an application software program for controlling the RFID tag reader 10. When the CPU 21 executes this application software program, a GUI (Graphic User Interface) for operating the RFID tag reader 10 is displayed on the display unit 25.

[0026] The display unit 25 is formed of, for example, a liquid crystal panel, and displays various information to the operator. The operation unit 26 has input devices, for example, various operation buttons and a touch panel, and accepts operations by the operator. The touch panel is provided on top of the display unit 25, and accepts operations according to the display content (GUI) of the display unit 25. The communication unit 27 is a communication interface that complies with the same communication standard as the communication unit 16 described above. The communication unit 27 performs wireless communication with the RFID tag reader 10.

[0027] Next, an RFID tag reading function provided in the RFID tag reader 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. It is assumed that the RFID tag reader 10 has an RFID tag reading function that complies with the air interface of ISO18000-63 (EPC global Gen2).

[0028] The RFID tag TG includes an antenna, an electromotive force unit, a memory, and a control unit. The antenna receives radio waves radiated from the antenna 151 of the RFID tag reader 10, and radiates radio waves according to the control of the control unit. The electromotive force unit generates power for starting the RFID tag TG and power for operating the control unit by the radio waves received by the antenna from the RFID tag reader 10. The memory stores item information of the item G to which the RFID tag TG is attached, tag information identifying the RFID tag TG, and the like. The control unit controls the entire operation related to reading the RFID tag TG. More specifically, the control unit controls the transmission and reception of radio waves by the antenna, and controls the reading and writing of information stored in the memory, and controls the transmission of tag information and item information to the RFID tag reader 10, and the like.

[0029] Fig. 4 is a state transition diagram of the RFID tag TG when the RFID tag reader 10 reads the RFID tag TG. Note that Fig. 4 shows the main part of the state transition of the RFID tag TG.

[0030] First, when the RFID tag TG, which is in the power-off state 31, enters the communication area of ​​the antenna 151 due to the movement of the RFID tag reader 10, the RFID tag TG transitions to the standby state 32. The RFID tag reader 10 transmits a Query command including a Q value at a predetermined transmission period.

[0031] When the RFID tag TG receives a Query command from the RFID tag reader 10 while in the standby state 32, the RFID tag TG transitions to the arbitration state 33. The Query command is a command used by the RFID tag reader 10 to inquire of the RFID tag TG about participation in an inventory that identifies individual tags among multiple tags. Note that, when in the arbitration state 33, the RFID tag TG performs arbitration so as not to respond to the RFID tag reader 10 at the same time.

[0032] When the RFID tag TG receives a Query Adjust command or a Query Rep command from the RFID tag reader 10 while in the arbitration state 33, the RFID tag TG transitions to a response state 34. When in the response state 34, the target RFID tag TG generates a 16-bit random number RN16 and transmits it to the RFID tag reader 10.

[0033] When the RFID tag TG is in the response state 34 and receives an Ack command, which is a response signal including RN16, transmitted from the RFID tag reader 10, the RFID tag TG detects whether the Ack command includes the RN16 that it transmitted. If it detects that the RN16 is included, the RFID tag TG transitions to the acknowledgement state 35. When in the acknowledgement state 35, the RFID tag TG transmits tag data including an EPC (Electronic Product Code), which is an example of a tag identifier stored in the RFID tag TG.

[0034] The arbitration state 33, response state 34 and acknowledgement state 35 constitute an inventory process 36 for realizing so-called anti-collision, that is, when reading multiple RFID tags TG, by avoiding data collisions from each RFID tag TG and reading each tag data.

[0035] When performing the inventory process 36, the RFID tag reader 10 divides the RFID tags TG into groups (slots) based on a preset Q value, the number of which corresponds to the Q value. Then, the RFID tag TG is read for each divided slot. At this time, only the RFID tag TG in slot=0 returns a response. When only one tag data is read, the RFID tag reader 10 adopts the tag data as the read result.

[0036] On the other hand, if multiple tag data are read, it is determined that a collision has occurred, and the slot is switched (the slot value is decremented (-1)) and the reading process is repeated. Thereafter, the reading process is repeated until only one tag data is read, thereby realizing anti-collision. For example, if the number of RFID tags TG is about 100 to 200, the Q value is set to 8 to 10 (the number of slots is 256 (=2 8 )~1024(=2 10 )), all RFID tags TG can be read. This type of anti-collision method is generally used as an anti-collision function for the time slot method.

[0037] Furthermore, the RFID tag reader 10 has a function of automatically adjusting the Q value in accordance with the response from the RFID tag TG. Specifically, the RFID tag reader 10 automatically adjusts the Q value in accordance with whether the response from the RFID tag TG is appropriate for the number of slots, whether there are many responses from the RFID tag TG for the number of slots, or whether there are few responses from the RFID tag TG for the number of slots. Note that a known technique can be used for the automatic adjustment of the Q value.

[0038] When the RFID tag TG is in the approved state 35 and receives a Req_RN command from the RFID tag reader 10 , the RFID tag TG transitions to the open state 37 .

[0039] When the RFID tag TG is in the open state 37 and receives a Select command from the RFID tag reader 10, the RFID tag TG transitions to the standby state 32. Also, when the RFID tag TG is in the open state 37 and receives a Kill command from the RFID tag reader 10, the RFID tag TG transitions to the stopped state 39.

[0040] Furthermore, when the RFID tag TG is in the open state 37 and receives an Access command from the RFID tag reader 10, the RFID tag TG transitions to the secure state .

[0041] When the RFID tag TG is in the secure state 38 and receives a Select command from the RFID tag reader 10, the RFID tag TG transitions to the standby state 32. Also, when the RFID tag TG is in the secure state 38 and receives a Kill command from the RFID tag reader 10, the RFID tag TG transitions to the stopped state 39.

[0042] When the RFID tag TG is in the stopped state 39 and goes out of the antenna communication area, the RFID tag TG transitions to the power OFF state 31 .

[0043] Furthermore, the RFID tag reader 10 can read information from the RFID tag TG by executing one of four independent types of sessions S0, S1, S2, and S3. Specifically, the RFID tag reader 10 selects one of the four types of sessions S0, S1, S2, and S3, and specifies the selected session by the above-mentioned Query command, Query Adjust command, and Query Rep command. Furthermore, the RFID tag reader 10 specifies the state of the inventory flag of the RFID tag TG to be read by the Query command.

[0044] Here, when the inventory flag is on (the inventory flag is in state A, an example of the first state), it means that the RFID tag TG has not responded (has not been read). Also, when the inventory flag is off (the inventory flag is in state B, an example of the second state), it means that the RFID tag TG has responded (has been read).

[0045] The RFID tag reader 10 uses a Query command to specify, for example, that in session S2, only RFID tags TG whose inventory flags are in the A state are to be read. In this case, the RFID tag reader 10 reads tag information from RFID tags TG whose inventory flags are in the A state, and excludes RFID tags TG whose inventory flags are in the B state from being read.

[0046] Hereinafter, reading an RFID tag TG whose inventory flag is in the A state in session Sn will be denoted as Sn_A (n = 0, 1, 2, 3). Similarly, reading an RFID tag TG whose inventory flag is in the B state in session Sn will be denoted as Sn_B (n = 0, 1, 2, 3). Also, hereinafter, "a method of reading Sn_X" means "a method of reading an RFID tag TG whose inventory flag is in the X (X = A, B) state in session Sn (n = 0, 1, 2, 3)."

[0047] The inventory flag in the RFID tag TG has a persistence time corresponding to each session. The persistence time is the time until the inventory flag that has responded is changed to the unresponsive state again.

[0048] Here, the persistence time of the RFID tag TG will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the persistence time in each session of the RFID tag TG.

[0049] In session S0, the RFID tag TG continues to maintain the inventory flag inverted by reading as long as power continues to be supplied when the RFID tag TG is read and as long as the inventory flag is not read with the designation inverted. As a specific example, in session S0, after the inventory flag changes to state B, the RFID tag TG maintains state B while receiving radio waves from the RFID tag reader 10 and as long as the inventory flag B is not read, and immediately changes to state A (0s) when radio waves are no longer received (power supply to the RFID tag TG is no longer received). In this case, 0s is the persistence time. Note that session S0 is an example of the fourth read state.

[0050] In session S1, the RFID tag TG continues to maintain the inventory flag for 500 ms to 5 s regardless of whether or not power is supplied after the RFID tag TG is read. As a specific example, in session S1, after the inventory flag changes to state B, the RFID tag TG continues to maintain the inventory flag in state B for 500 ms to 5 s regardless of reception of radio waves from the RFID tag reader 10. Then, after 500 ms to 5 s has elapsed, the inventory flag returns to state A. In this case, the period of 500 ms to 5 s is the persistence time. The period of 500 ms to 5 s is an example of a first inhibition time. Also, session S1 is an example of a first read state.

[0051] In session S2, if periodic power supply continues after reading the RFID tag TG, the inventory flag continues to be maintained. As a specific example, in session S2, after the inventory flag changes to state B, the RFID tag TG maintains state B while receiving radio waves from the RFID tag reader 10. Then, the RFID tag TG maintains the inventory flag in state B for at least 2 seconds after radio wave reception (power supply) is stopped, and thereafter, the inventory flag returns to state A. In this case, the time of 2 seconds or more is the persistence time. Note that the time of 2 seconds or more is an example of a second inhibition time. Also, session S2 is an example of a second reading state.

[0052] In session S3, the state of the inventory flag changes in the same way as in session S2. However, sessions S2 and S3 are independent, and by switching between sessions S2 and S3, for example, it becomes possible to read a wireless tag that is in state B in session S2 as being in state A in session S3.

[0053] That is, in session S3, if periodic power supply continues after reading the RFID tag TG, the inventory flag continues to be maintained. As a specific example, in session S3, after the inventory flag changes to state B, the RFID tag TG maintains state B while receiving radio waves from the RFID tag reader 10. Then, the RFID tag TG maintains the inventory flag in state B for at least 2 seconds after radio wave reception (power supply) is stopped, and thereafter, the inventory flag returns to state A. In this case, the time of 2 seconds or more is the persistence time. The time of 2 seconds or more is an example of a third inhibition time. Also, session S3 is an example of a third reading state.

[0054] The RFID tag reader 10 can read the RFID tags TG that could not be read the first time again when the persistence time has elapsed and the inventory flag has been changed to a no-response state. The RFID tag reader 10 realizes batch reading of multiple RFID tags TG by a reading method Sn_X (n=0,1,2,3, X=A,B) that combines distinction by inventory flag X and session Sn.

[0055] Next, a description will be given of the functional configuration of the RFID tag reader 10 and the information processing device 20. FIG.

[0056] The RFID tag reader 10 includes, as functional units, a reading processing unit 101, a communication control unit 102, and a reading operation change unit 103. A part or all of the functional units included in the RFID tag reader 10 may be a software configuration realized by cooperation between a processor (e.g., CPU 11) of the RFID tag reader 10 and a program stored in a memory (e.g., ROM 12, storage unit 14). Also, a part or all of the functional units included in the RFID tag reader 10 may be a hardware configuration realized by a dedicated circuit or the like mounted on the RFID tag reader 10.

[0057] 6, the information processing device 20 includes, as functional units, a communication control unit 201, a setting processing unit 202, a reading result processing unit 203, a reading operation control unit 204, a display control unit 205, and an operation control unit 206. A part or all of the functional units included in the information processing device 20 may be a software configuration realized by cooperation between a processor (e.g., CPU 21) of the information processing device 20 and a program stored in a memory (e.g., ROM 22, storage unit 24). Also, a part or all of the functional units included in the information processing device 20 may be a hardware configuration realized by a dedicated circuit or the like mounted on the information processing device 20.

[0058] The reading processing unit 101 (an example of a reading means) reads tag data from the RFID tag TG in cooperation with the reading unit 15. Specifically, the reading processing unit 101 reads tag data from the RFID tag TG located within the communication area of ​​the antenna 151 by performing a series of reading operations described in FIG.

[0059] For example, the reading processing unit 101 reads the RFID tags TG using the Sn_A reading method, thereby sequentially reading tag data from RFID tags TG whose inventory flags are in the A state, that is, unresponsive RFID tags TG. With this reading method, only unresponsive RFID tags TG can be targeted for reading, so that when a large number of RFID tags TG are to be read, the RFID tags TG can be read efficiently.

[0060] The communication control unit 102 cooperates with the communication unit 16 to control communication with the information processing device 20. Specifically, the communication control unit 102 transmits tag data read by the reading processing unit 101 to the information processing device 20. In addition, the communication control unit 102 receives various information (such as a change instruction to be described later) transmitted from the information processing device 20.

[0061] The reading operation change unit 103, together with the reading operation control unit 204, constitutes an example of a reading control means, and controls the reading processing unit 101 according to the designation of the setting processing unit 202. The reading operation change unit 103 changes the reading operation of the reading processing unit 101. Specifically, the reading operation change unit 103 changes the reading method Sn_X used by the reading processing unit 101 to read the RFID tag TG in response to a change instruction transmitted from the information processing device 20 (reading operation control unit 204). Note that the reading method Sn_X used to read the RFID tag TG may be switchable by an instruction from an operation button (not shown). In addition, a default value is set in advance for the reading method Sn_X used to read the RFID tag TG according to various operations (described later). The reading operation change unit 103 rewrites the setting value such as the default value according to an instruction from the reading operation control unit 204.

[0062] When changing the reading method by the reading processing unit 101, the reading operation change unit 103 specifies the reading state by the reading processing unit 101 to any one of the first reading state, the second reading state, the third reading state, or the fourth reading state, and specifies the inventory flag (A or B) to be read.

[0063] The first reading state is a reading state in which, after the reading processing unit 101 reads the response of the RFID tag TG, the response from the RFID tag TG is inhibited for a first inhibition time regardless of whether or not power is supplied to the RFID tag (for example, the above-mentioned session S1).

[0064] The second reading state is a reading state in which, after the reading processing unit 101 reads the response of the RFID tag TG, if periodic power supply to the RFID tag is continued, the response from the RFID tag TG is suppressed for a second suppression time (for example, the above-mentioned session S2).

[0065] The third reading state is a reading state in which, after the reading processing unit 101 reads the response of the RFID tag TG, if periodic power supply to the RFID tag is continued, the response from the RFID tag TG is suppressed for a third suppression time (for example, the above-mentioned session S3).

[0066] The fourth reading state is a reading state in which, after the reading processing unit 101 has read the response from the RFID tag TG, if power supply to the RFID tag TG is continued, a response from the RFID tag TG is suppressed (for example, the above-mentioned session S0).

[0067] The communication control unit 201 cooperates with the communication unit 27 to control communication with the RFID tag reader 10. Specifically, the communication control unit 201 receives tag data transmitted from the RFID tag reader 10. In addition, the communication control unit 201 transmits a change instruction output by the reading operation control unit 204 to the RFID tag reader 10.

[0068] The setting processing unit 202 is an example of a designation unit. The setting processing unit 202 designates, for each of a plurality of tasks, one of the states of the RFID tag TG (only inventory flag A or both A and B (alternate)) as the read target, and designates one of the above-mentioned read states (first to fourth read states) as the read state by the reading processing unit 101. In making this designation, the setting processing unit 202 updates the settings stored in the setting storage unit 241 (see FIG. 7), which will be described next.

[0069] 7 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of settings stored in the setting storage unit 241. Note that, although the contents stored in the setting storage unit 241 are shown in the form of a table here, they do not have to be in the form of a table in practice. The setting storage unit 241 is provided, for example, using a partial area of ​​the storage unit 24.

[0070] The setting storage unit 241 stores, for example, output, Q value, polarization type, session, target, automatic narrowing down, narrowing down threshold, etc. for each task. Each item (task, output, Q value, polarization type, session, target, automatic narrowing down) is assigned a value present in each master shown in Figs. 8 to 13.

[0071] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the task master 242. The task master 242 stores values ​​0 to 11 by assigning a meaning (task) to each of them. Value 1 indicates a normal inventory task. Value 2 indicates the beginning of a filtering task performed by automatic switching during inventory. Value 3 indicates the end of a filtering task performed by automatic switching during inventory. Value 4 indicates a filtering task performed by manual switching during inventory. Here, manual switching is accepted by an operation via the GUI or operation unit 26.

[0072] Here, the normal inventory operation is an operation to check the inventory by reading unspecified RFID tags TG without limiting them and comparing the acquired tag data with the theoretical inventory. The narrowing operation is an operation to read only RFID tags TG that are left unread after the normal inventory operation is performed. The theoretical inventory is acquired from a specified server or the like before the inventory operation.

[0073] Returning to FIG. 8, the value 5 indicates the beginning of a search operation performed during inventory. The value 6 indicates the end of a search operation performed during inventory. A search operation is an operation in which a specific RFID tag TG is designated as the target to be read and read. Other values ​​7 to 11 are, for example, normal search operations, receiving operations, shipping operations, reading operations, and writing operations. Also, the value 0 is a common setting.

[0074] 9 is a diagram showing an example of the output master 243. The output master 243 stores values ​​by assigning to each value the output value of the radio waves to be applied to the antenna 151. The output values ​​in the diagram (1000mw, 500mw, ... 1.0mW, ...) are merely examples, and different numerical values ​​may be used in practice.

[0075] 10 is a diagram showing an example of the Q-value master 244. The Q-value master 244 stores a meaning (number of slots) assigned to each value. The number of slots in the diagram is an example, and may be a different value in practice.

[0076] 11 is a diagram showing an example of the polarization type master 245. The polarization type master 245 stores values ​​0, 1, and 2, each of which is assigned a meaning (polarization type). A value of 1 indicates that only vertical polarization is used. A value of 2 indicates that only horizontal polarization is used. A value of 0 indicates that both polarizations are used. Both polarizations indicate that vertical polarization and horizontal polarization are used by switching alternately at a predetermined timing.

[0077] 12 is a diagram showing an example of the session master 246 and the target master 247. The session master 246 assigns a meaning (session type) to each of the values ​​0, 1, 2, and 3 and stores them. The value 0 indicates session S0. The value 1 indicates session S1. The value 2 indicates session S2. The value 3 indicates session S3.

[0078] The target master 247 assigns a meaning (type of inventory flag to be read) to each of the values ​​0, 1, 2, and 3 and stores them. A value of 1 indicates that only RFID tags TG whose inventory flag is in state A are to be read. A value of 2 indicates that only RFID tags TG whose inventory flag is in state B are to be read. A value of 0 indicates that inventory flags A and B are to be read alternately.

[0079] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the automatic narrowing down master 248. The automatic narrowing down master 248 stores the values ​​0, 1, and -, each of which is assigned with a meaning (whether automatic narrowing down is performed or not). The value 0 indicates that automatic narrowing down is not performed, that is, automatic narrowing down is not performed. The value 1 indicates that automatic narrowing down is performed, that is, automatic narrowing down is performed. The value "-" indicates that automatic narrowing down is not applicable, that is, the business to which automatic narrowing down cannot be applied and automatic narrowing down is not applicable. Of the businesses that appear in the description of this embodiment, the one that will be described as being applicable to automatic narrowing down is a normal inventory business (value 1 of the business master 242).

[0080] The filtering threshold stores the number of SKUs (stock keeping units) that trigger a shift to the filtering operation when automatic filtering is enabled. The filtering threshold value "-" indicates that the operation is not applicable, that is, the operation does not require the setting of a filtering threshold. In this embodiment, the number of remaining SKUs (remaining number) falling below a predetermined threshold (filtering threshold) is taken as an example of an "event that triggers a shift from the inventory operation to the filtering operation." Alternatively, this event may be the operation of a predetermined operator such as a manually operated button.

[0081] Returning now to FIG. 7, typical configuration examples for some business operations will be described.

[0082] In normal inventory work (value "1" for the item "Work"), it is assumed that a large number of RFID tags TG will be read, and the following settings are made: both polarization types, S2 session, A only target, and automatic narrowing. In addition, the Q value is set to a large value in this work.

[0083] According to this setting, the RFID tag reader 10 operates in the reading method S2_A in normal inventory operations. This causes RFID tags TG whose inventory flags are in the A state, that is, unresponsive RFID tags TG, to be read one by one. Also, according to this setting, when the number of RFID tags TG that have not been read falls below the narrowing-down threshold (32 in this case), the operation automatically transitions to the beginning of the narrowing-down operation (value "2" of the item "Operation")

[0084] In the narrowing down operation that is automatically switched during inventory, in the beginning of the narrowing down operation, the RFID tags TG to be read are limited to those that remain unread, and session S2 is continued. Then, when the number of RFID tags TG that remain unread falls below the narrowing down threshold (here, 4), the operation automatically transitions to the end of the narrowing down operation (value "3" for item "operation"). In the end of the narrowing down operation, the session is switched from S2 to S0, and the RFID tags TG that remain unread are read.

[0085] The setting processing unit 202 updates the setting storage unit 241 in response to an operation received from an operator. The operation from the operator is received, for example, via a GUI as shown in Figs. 14 to 16. Figs. 14 to 16 are diagrams showing examples of GUIs displayed by the display unit 25. These GUIs are based on an application software program (hereinafter simply referred to as a reading application) for controlling the RFID tag reader 10, which is stored in the storage unit 24. The display unit 25 displays each GUI under the control of the control unit 200 executing the reading application. Note that Fig. 14 shows an example of a main screen 251, Fig. 15 shows a setting screen 252, and Fig. 16 shows an example of an inventory setting screen 253.

[0086] The main screen 251 includes a plurality of selection buttons 2611 (seven in FIG. 1) on which the names of various operations are displayed, and a setting button 2612. When any of the selection buttons 2611 is operated via the touch panel of the operation unit 26, a screen for performing the operation whose name is displayed on the operated selection button 2611 is displayed on the display unit 25.

[0087] Furthermore, when a setting button 2612 in the main screen 251 is operated, a setting screen 252 (FIG. 15) is displayed on the display unit 25. The setting screen 252 includes a button 2621 for performing various settings and a button 2622 for performing settings for a plurality of operations. For example, when a button 2622 for accepting execution of inventory operation settings is operated, an inventory setting screen 253 (FIG. 16) is displayed on the display unit 25.

[0088] The inventory setting screen 253 is divided into left and right halves, and the right area includes a button 301 for opening a setting file, a button 302 for saving the setting file, a button 303 for loading the current settings of the device (RFID tag reader 10), and a button 304 for sending the displayed settings to the device.

[0089] The inventory setting screen 253 also includes, in its left-hand area, reception sections 305 to 316 for receiving setting values ​​corresponding to various items stored in the setting storage unit 241 (FIG. 7). The left-hand area of ​​the inventory setting screen 253 is vertically scrollable. The top part of the scroll range is shown in screen 2531, and the other part is shown in screen 2532. The inventory setting screen 253 also includes, in its bottom part of the scroll range, a button 317 for returning the settings to the initial state, and a button 318 for saving the updated settings. Here, the initial state is a state in which a default value (e.g., a recommended value) is set for each item stored in the setting storage unit 241. The default values ​​are stored, for example, in the storage unit 24.

[0090] The receiving units 305-309, 311-316 are embodied as, for example, a drop-down list (also called a pull-down menu). As is well known, a drop-down list displays a list of options when a button with a symbol on the right end is operated, and when an operator selects one of the options by touching the display position of the option in the list, the selected option is displayed and the list disappears.

[0091] The reception unit 310 is embodied as, for example, a toggle switch. As is well known, a toggle switch is a switch that receives an on / off command by a button that slides left and right. The button is on when it is on the right and off when it is on the left.

[0092] When a button is operated, reception unit 305 displays each record stored in output master 243 as a list and accepts the designation of the output. When a button is operated, reception unit 306 displays each record stored in Q-factor master 244 as a list and accepts the designation of the Q-factor. When a button is operated, reception unit 307 displays each record stored in polarization type master 245 as a list and accepts the designation of the polarization type. When the button is operated, the reception unit 308 displays each record stored in the session master 246 as a list and accepts the specification of the session Sn (n=0, 1, 2, 3). When the button is operated, the reception unit 309 displays each record stored in the target master 247 as a list and accepts the specification of the target for reading the inventory flag X (X=A, B).

[0093] Reception unit 310 accepts the selection of whether or not to perform automatic narrowing down in normal inventory operations. When the button is at the right end of the slide range, automatic narrowing down is on. When the button is at the left end of the slide range, automatic narrowing down is not on. When automatic narrowing down is selected here, reception units 311-316 become available for use. When the toggle switch in reception unit 310 is off (no automatic narrowing down), reception units 311-316 are also off (unavailable).

[0094] The reception units 311 to 313 receive settings for the initial narrowing down. When the button is operated, the reception unit 311 displays consecutive numbers as a list and receives the specification of a narrowing down threshold. When the button is operated, the reception unit 312 displays each record stored in the session master 246 as a list and receives the specification of a session Sn (n=0, 1, 2, 3). When the button is operated, the reception unit 313 displays each record stored in the target master 247 as a list and receives the specification of an inventory flag X (X=A, B) to be read.

[0095] The reception units 314 to 316 receive settings for the end of the narrowing down process. When the button of the reception unit 314 is operated, it displays consecutive numbers as a list and receives the specification of the narrowing down threshold. When the button of the reception unit 315 is operated, it displays each record stored in the session master 246 as a list and receives the specification of the session Sn (n=0, 1, 2, 3). When the button of the reception unit 316 is operated, it displays each record stored in the target master 247 as a list and receives the specification of the inventory flag X (X=A, B) to be read.

[0096] When button 318 is operated, setting processing unit 202 records the designation made to each of reception units 305 to 316 in setting storage unit 241. When button 317 is operated, setting processing unit 202 reads out the default values ​​of each item from storage unit 24 and causes them to be reflected in setting storage unit 241.

[0097] Returning to Fig. 6, the reading result processing unit 203 registers the tag data received by the communication control unit 201 in the reading buffer BF held in the RAM 23 or the storage unit 24. Here, every time new tag data is received by the communication control unit 201, the reading result processing unit 203 compares the tag identifier included in the tag data with the tag identifier of the tag data registered in the reading buffer BF. Then, the reading result processing unit 203 executes a duplication check to discard the received tag data if the tag identifiers are duplicated. This makes it possible to prevent tag data containing the same tag identifier from being duplicated and registered in the reading buffer BF.

[0098] Moreover, the reading result processing unit 203 issues a notification each time the read tag data is registered in the reading buffer BF. For example, the reading result processing unit 203 issues a notification by displaying, on the display unit 25, a notification image or message indicating that the tag data has been read, and an article identifier included in the tag data. For example, the reading result processing unit 203 issues a notification by outputting a sound such as a beep from a sound output device (not shown) such as a speaker provided in the information processing device 20. This allows the operator of the information processing device 20 to know the reading status of the RFID tag TG at the current position based on the frequency and number of notifications. Therefore, the information processing device 20 can allow the operator to recognize the timing to move the communication area to another position, thereby improving the convenience of the RFID tag TG reading operation.

[0099] The read result processing unit 203 also executes processing such as counting the number of items G in stock based on the tag identifiers and item identifiers included in each piece of tag data registered in the read buffer BF. For example, the read result processing unit 203 derives the number of items G in stock for each type of item identifier by counting the number of tag data for each type of item identifier. Also, for example, the read result processing unit 203 derives a determination result as to whether or not the item G to be checked is present by comparing a checklist in which the item identifiers of the item G to be checked are registered with the item identifiers of the tag data registered in the read buffer BF. The derivation results obtained by the processing of the read result processing unit 203 may be displayed on the display unit 25.

[0100] Incidentally, in the configuration of the reading system 1 described above, if any error occurs during reading or transmission of tag data, the tag data will not be registered in the information processing device 20 normally.

[0101] One of the above-mentioned errors is, for example, caused by the random number RN16 generated by the RFID tag TG. When reading tag data registered in a large number of RFID tags TG in inventory management (stocktaking, etc.) of goods using RFID, the RFID tag TG generates RN16, which is a 16-bit random number, and transmits it to the RFID tag reader 10. The RFID tag TG then confirms that the transmitted RN16 is included in a reply including RN16 from the RFID tag reader 10, and transmits the information it possesses.

[0102] However, 1 / 2 16 There is a probability of (=1 / 65536) that multiple tags will return the same RN16. This probability is very small, but as the number of tags increases, the probability of the same RN16 being returned increases. For example, if there are n tags, the probability that multiple tags will return the same RN16 is 1-(65535 / 65536)^(n-1). In other words, if there are 1000 tags, there is about a 1.5% probability that multiple tags will return the same RN16. And if multiple tags return the same RN16, a wireless tag will be missed.

[0103] The tag data in which an error occurred needs to be re-read. However, if the RFID tag TG of the tag data in which an error occurred is in state B due to a previous read, the RFID tag reader 10 cannot immediately re-read the tag data with the same read method Sn_X.

[0104] For example, as an example of reading tag data, assume that the RFID tag reader 10 reads an RFID tag TG in S2_A and the tag data "T1", "T2", and "T3" are read from three RFID tags TG in state A. In this case, the inventory flags of the RFID tags TG corresponding to "T1", "T2", and "T3" respectively change to state B as the tag data is read.

[0105] Here, if the tag data of "T2" is not registered normally in the information processing device 20 due to some error, the RFID tag TG corresponding to "T2" is in state B, so the RFID tag reading device 10 that performs reading at S2_A cannot re-read "T2", and the data is not resent to the information processing device 20.

[0106] For this reason, the reading system 1 of this embodiment is configured to enable transition to automatic or manual narrowing-down operations during inventory operations, thereby enabling re-reading of tag data (T2) in which an error has occurred, thereby eliminating missed readings.

[0107] The reading operation control unit 204 constitutes an example of a reading control means together with the reading operation change unit 103. The reading operation control unit 204 refers to the setting storage unit 241, and transmits a change instruction to the reading operation change unit 103 to change the reading method Sn_X by cooperating with the communication control unit 201. The reading operation control unit 204 is also responsible for transmitting other settings stored in the setting storage unit 241 to the reading operation change unit 103.

[0108] The display control unit 205 displays tag information read by the RFID tag reading device 10, information related to the operating state of the RFID tag reading device 10, and the like on the display unit 25. The display unit 25 also displays buttons and the like for issuing operational instructions to the RFID tag reading device 10. These buttons and the like are operated via a touch panel included in the operation unit 26. The operation control unit 206 accepts operations on the operation unit 26.

[0109] When the CPU 21 executes an application software program for controlling the RFID tag reader 10 stored in the memory unit 24, the display control unit 205 displays a GUI for operating the RFID tag reader 10 on the display unit 25.

[0110] (Transition to automatic filtering during inventory operations) The reading system 1 configured as above operates as follows. Fig. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing performed by the reading system 1. The flow of processing shown in Fig. 17 starts in a state where a reading application is launched in the information processing device 20 and the main screen 251 (Fig. 14) is displayed on the display unit 25. Note that an inventory operation with automatic narrowing down will be described as an example here.

[0111] First, when one of the selection buttons 2611 on the main screen 251 is operated and a business is selected (step S1), the reading operation control unit 204 of the information processing device 20 reads out the settings stored in the setting memory unit 241, and transmits the read out settings to the reading operation change unit 103 of the RFID tag reading device 10 and reflects them (step S2).

[0112] The reading processing unit 101 of the RFID tag reader 10 causes the antenna 151 to emit radio waves according to the settings reflected in step S2 (step S3). When the antenna 151 receives radio waves from the RFID tag TG, the reading processing unit 101 transmits the received information (tag data) to the information processing device 20. The reading result processing unit 203 of the information processing device 20 receives the tag data and registers it in the reading buffer BF (step S4).

[0113] Next, the reading result processing unit 203 judges whether there is a number of SKUs left to be read (remaining number) (step S5). If there is no remaining number (Yes in step S5), the reading system 1 ends this process. If there is a remaining number (No in step S5), the reading operation control unit 204 judges whether a predetermined event has occurred (step S6). The predetermined event is, for example, the remaining number falling below a selection threshold.

[0114] If a predetermined event has occurred (Yes in step S6), the reading operation control unit 204 changes the settings of the RFID tag reading device 10 to shift from the inventory operation to the narrowing-down operation (step S7). The change of settings in step S7 is the same as in step S2. If a predetermined event has not occurred (No in step S6), the reading operation control unit 204 returns the process to step S3.

[0115] Next, with reference to screen examples, a description will be given of another example of the operation of the reading system 1. Fig. 18 to Fig. 26 are diagrams showing examples of the inventory operation screen 254 (2541 to 2549).

[0116] The inventory task screen 254 is displayed while the reading application is executing the inventory task. First, the inventory task screen 2541 (FIG. 18) displayed during the inventory task is divided into left and right halves, and the right area includes various operation buttons such as a read start button 401, an unread product filter button 402, a select button 403, an interrupt button 404, and a confirm button 405.

[0117] When the start reading button 401 is operated, the reading system 1 starts reading the RFID tag TG by emitting radio waves from the antenna 151. With the start of reading, the reading system 1 changes the start reading button 401 to a stop reading button 406, as shown in the inventory operation screen 2542 during reading (FIG. 19).

[0118] The inventory operation screen 2541 also includes, in the left-hand area, a detail line 501 showing product information by SKU, and a quantity 502 of RFID tags TG included in each SKU. The inventory operation screen 2541 also includes, in the lower part of the left-hand area, a total number read 503. The left-hand area of ​​the inventory operation screen 2541 can be scrolled vertically.

[0119] The quantity 502 and total number read 503 are displayed in the form of a fraction, for example, with the theoretical stock as the denominator and the number read as the numerator. An inventory task screen 2541 (FIG. 18) shows the state before reading began. Therefore, both numbers read (numerators) are 0. Next, an inventory task screen 2542 (FIG. 19) shows the state during reading. Here, the number of RFID tags TG that have been read is reflected in the number read (numerator). And an inventory task screen 2543 (FIG. 20) shows the state after reading has stopped.

[0120] Next, a method of narrowing down the display to only unread products will be described with reference to Figs. 21 and 22. In the third detail line 501 on the inventory task screen 2544 (Fig. 21), the numerator and denominator of the quantity 502 are the same value, so reading of the SKU indicated by this detail line 501 has been completed. To narrow down the search by specifying SKUs (unread products) other than such SKUs that have been read, press the unread product narrow down button 402. As a result, the detail lines 501 of the SKUs that have been read will no longer be displayed, as shown on the inventory task screen 2545 (Fig. 22). This makes it possible to grasp unread products even while reading is in progress.

[0121] During the narrowed-down display, the reading system 1 changes the unread product narrow-down button 402 to a full display button 407 as shown in the inventory task screen 2545 (FIG. 22). When the full display button 407 is operated, the reading system 1 returns the display from the inventory task screen 2545 (FIG. 22) to the inventory task screen 2544 (FIG. 21).

[0122] (Transition to manual filtering during inventory operations) Next, manual narrowing down during inventory will be described with reference to Figs. 23 to 25. An inventory operation screen 2546 (Fig. 23) is in a state where the total number of items read is approaching the theoretical stock, and the reading stop button 406 has been pressed. When the selection button 403 is operated here, the reading system 1 displays only the detail lines 501 of the other SKUs (unread products) excluding the SKUs that have been read, as shown in an inventory operation screen 2547 (Fig. 24), and further adds a radio button 504 to the beginning of each detail line 501. Note that the radio buttons 504 may be other selection means such as check boxes.

[0123] In addition, in accordance with the narrowed-down display, the reading system 1 changes the unread product narrowing down button 402 to a full display button 407, and also changes the selection button 403 to a deselection button 408. When the deselection button 408 is operated, the reading system 1 turns off all the checks in the radio buttons 504. The deselection button 408 does not function when all the radio buttons 504 are off.

[0124] The operator checks the radio button 504 of the detail line 501 of the SKU to be read on the inventory operation screen 2547 (FIG. 24) as shown on the inventory operation screen 2548 (FIG. 25), and further operates the read start button 401. This causes the reading system 1 to specify the SKU and execute narrowing down reading.

[0125] (Transition from inventory operations to search operations) Next, a transition from an inventory task to a search task will be described with reference to Fig. 26 to Fig. 31. For example, the transition to the search task is triggered by an event such as a specific button being operated.

[0126] When a predetermined button is operated during an inventory operation, the reading system 1 changes the screen displayed on the display unit 25 from that shown in Fig. 19 to an inventory operation screen 2549 (Fig. 26). On this inventory operation screen 2549, the reading system 1 displays other SKUs (unread products) excluding SKUs that have already been read. The operator touches one of the detail lines 501 included in this screen that displays the SKU to be read, and then operates the selection button 403. In response to this, the reading system 1 displays the next screen (detail screen 255, Fig. 27).

[0127] Fig. 27 is a diagram showing an example of the details screen 255. The details screen 255 is divided into left and right halves, and the left area displays various information 511 of the product of the SKU that matches the details line 501 selected in Fig. 26. The right area displays the serial number 512 of the RFID tag TG attached to the product of the SKU indicated by the information in the left area, and the quantity 513 of the RFID tag TG. The display column for the serial number 512 displays the serial number 512 in a row, and the display column can be scrolled vertically.

[0128] When the operator selects one of the serial numbers 512 and touches the display position thereof, the reading system 1 accepts the operation of selecting the serial number 512 via the touch panel, and displays the search operation screen 256. Figs. 28 to 31 are diagrams showing an example of the search operation screen 256 (2561 to 2564).

[0129] 28, the search operation screen 256 includes a search start button 421, a search end button 422, a position 521 of the RFID tag reader 10, and concentric circles 522 indicating the direction and distance centered on the position 521. When the search start button 421 is operated, the reading system 1 emits radio waves from the antenna 151. Then, the search operation screen 2562 (FIG. 29) displays the radiation range 525 of the radio waves. During the search, the reading system 1 changes the search start button 421 to a search stop button 423, as shown in Fig. 29. When the target to be read (the RFID tag TG having the serial number 512 selected on the details screen 255 (Fig. 27)) enters the radiation range 525 and a response is detected, the reading system 1 displays the position 526 of the target to be read within the radiation range 525. The operator moves so that position 526 of the read target and position 521 of the RFID tag reader 10 approach each other. When the screen display appears as shown in Fig. 30, that is, when position 526 of the read target and position 521 of the RFID tag reader 10 almost coincide with each other, the operator operates the search stop button 423 to end the search operation. A search operation screen 2564 (Fig. 31) shows the state after the search operation has ended.

[0130] In this way, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to shift from the inventory task to the narrowing down task. In addition, the shift to the narrowing down task can be performed automatically when a predetermined event occurs. In addition, the shift to the narrowing down task can be performed manually by switching with a predetermined operation or the like. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to shift from an inventory task to a search task.

[0131] In this way, according to the reading system 1 of the present embodiment, it is possible to easily and efficiently read wireless tags.

[0132] The programs executed by the reading system 1 of this embodiment are provided in a state that they are pre-installed in a ROM or the like.

[0133] The program executed by the reading system 1 of this embodiment may be configured to be provided by recording it on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk) in an installable or executable format file.

[0134] Furthermore, the program executed by the reading system 1 of the present embodiment may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by being downloaded via the network. Also, the program executed by the reading system 1 of the present embodiment may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0135] The program executed by the reading system 1 of this embodiment has a modular configuration including the above-mentioned units (reading processing unit 101, communication control unit 102, reading operation change unit 103, communication control unit 201, setting processing unit 202, reading result processing unit 203, reading operation control unit 204, display control unit 205, and operation control unit 206). The CPU (processor) loads the above-mentioned units onto the main storage device by reading and executing the program from the storage medium. As a result, the reading processing unit 101, communication control unit 102, reading operation change unit 103, communication control unit 201, setting processing unit 202, reading result processing unit 203, reading operation control unit 204, display control unit 205, and operation control unit 206 are generated on the main storage device.

[0136] In this embodiment, the above-mentioned units of the reading system 1 are divided into an RFID tag reading device 10 and an information processing device 20, but in practice, it is not essential that the above-mentioned units are divided into multiple devices.

[0137] In addition, in the present embodiment, the case where the inventory and part of the narrowing down (task values ​​1 and 2 in FIG. 7) are performed in session S2 has been described as an example, but the same operation can be performed even if session S2 is used as session S3 for the implementation. In other words, the reading method S2_X may be substituted with S3_X.

[0138] Furthermore, in this embodiment, at least a part of the narrowing down (values ​​3 and 4 of the business in FIG. 7) is performed in session S0, but this session S0 may be used as session S1 for implementation. In other words, reading method S0_X may be substituted with S1_X. In addition, session S0 may be substituted with session S1.

[0139] In addition, in this embodiment, an example is described in which inventory and part of the narrowing down (task values ​​1 and 2 in Figure 7) are performed in session S2, and the subsequent narrowing down (tasks 3 and 4 in Figure 7) is performed in session S0, but this session S2 may also be used as session S1 when carrying out the process.

[0140] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the parts performed in reading method S0_X (for example, transaction values ​​3 to 6 in Figure 7) may be performed in other sessions Sn (1, 2 or 3) while alternating between the target inventory flag A and B.

[0141] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, and are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0142] 1...Reading system, 10...RFID tag reader, 100...control unit, 101: reading processing unit; 102: communication control unit; 103: reading operation change unit; 11...CPU, 12...ROM, 13...RAM, 14...Storage section, 15...reading unit, 151...antenna, 152...transmitting unit, 153...receiving unit, 16…Communications Department, 17...handle, 18...mounting portion, 20...information processing device, 200...control unit, 201: communication control unit; 202: setting processing unit; 203: reading result processing unit; 204: reading operation control unit, 205: display control unit, 206: operation control unit, 21...CPU, 22...ROM, 23...RAM, 24...Storage section, 241: setting storage unit; 242: business master; 243: output master; 244...Q value master, 245...polarization type master, 246...session master, 247...Target master, 248...Automatic narrowing down master, 25...display section, 251...main screen, 252...setting screen, 253...inventory setting screen, 254... inventory operation screen, 255... details screen, 256... search operation screen, 26...Operation unit, 27…Communications Department. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0143] [Patent Document 1] JP 2017-130885 A

Claims

1. A reading system for reading information from a wireless tag that alternates between a first state and a second state in response to reading of the information, comprising: A reading means for reading information of the wireless tag; a designation means for designating, for each of a plurality of tasks, only the first state or the first state and the second state as a reading target, and designating, as a reading state by the reading means, any one of the following: a first reading state in which a response from a wireless tag is suppressed for a first suppression time after the reading means reads a response from the wireless tag regardless of whether power is being supplied to the wireless tag, a second reading state in which a response from the wireless tag is suppressed for a second suppression time after the reading means reads a response from the wireless tag while power is being supplied and after the power supply is cut off, a third reading state in which a response from the wireless tag is suppressed for a third suppression time after the reading means reads a response from the wireless tag while power is being supplied and after the power supply is cut off, and a fourth reading state in which a response from the wireless tag is suppressed if power supply to the wireless tag is continued after the reading means reads a response from the wireless tag; a read control means for controlling the read means in accordance with the designation by the designation means; Equipped with The plurality of operations include at least an inventory operation for reading a plurality of wireless tags, and a narrowing-down operation for reading wireless tags whose information has not been read in the inventory operation, The designation means is Specifying the reading state of the reading means for the inventory operation to any one of the first reading state, the second reading state, and the third reading state, and specifying the reading state of the reading means for the narrowing-down operation to the fourth reading state, or A reading state by the reading means for the inventory operation is designated to be either the second reading state or the third reading state, and a reading state by the reading means for the selection operation is designated to be either the fourth reading state or the first reading state. Reading system.

2. The plurality of operations further includes a search operation for reading a specific wireless tag; The designation means designates a reading state by the reading means to the fourth reading state for the search task, The reading control means transitions to the search operation when a predetermined operation is received during the execution of the inventory operation.

2. The reading system according to claim 1.

3. The designation means designates an event that triggers a transition from the inventory operation to the narrowing-down operation, The reading control means shifts to the narrowing down operation when the event occurs during reading related to the inventory operation. A reading system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The reading control means transitions to the narrowing down operation when a predetermined operation is received during the execution of the inventory operation. A reading system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. A computer of a reading system that reads information from a wireless tag that alternates between a first state and a second state in response to reading of the information, A reading means for reading information of the wireless tag; a designation means for designating, for each of a plurality of tasks, only the first state or the first state and the second state as a reading target, and designating, as a reading state by the reading means, any one of the following: a first reading state in which a response from a wireless tag is suppressed for a first suppression time after the reading means reads a response from the wireless tag regardless of whether power is being supplied to the wireless tag, a second reading state in which a response from the wireless tag is suppressed for a second suppression time after the reading means reads a response from the wireless tag while power is being supplied and after the power supply is cut off, a third reading state in which a response from the wireless tag is suppressed for a third suppression time after the reading means reads a response from the wireless tag while power is being supplied and after the power supply is cut off, and a fourth reading state in which a response from the wireless tag is suppressed if power supply to the wireless tag is continued after the reading means reads a response from the wireless tag; a read control means for controlling the read means in accordance with the designation by the designation means; Functioning as a The plurality of operations include at least an inventory operation for reading a plurality of wireless tags, and a narrowing-down operation for reading wireless tags whose information has not been read in the inventory operation, The designation means is Specifying the reading state of the reading means for the inventory operation to any one of the first reading state, the second reading state, and the third reading state, and specifying the reading state of the reading means for the narrowing-down operation to the fourth reading state, or A reading state by the reading means for the inventory operation is designated to be either the second reading state or the third reading state, and a reading state by the reading means for the selection operation is designated to be either the fourth reading state or the first reading state. Program for.

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