Shelf label management system, shelf label management method, and program

Abstract

This shelf label management system comprises an acquisition unit, location reception unit, designated location identification unit, and selection unit. For each electronic shelf label, the acquisition unit acquires data in which information identifying the electronic shelf label and location information representing the location of the label in the facility are linked. The location reception unit receives designation of a location on an image of the facility in accordance with a user operation. The designated location identification unit identifies facility location information corresponding to the designated location. The selection unit selects an electronic shelf label linked with the facility location information.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a shelf label management system and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] The use of electronic shelf labels in stores has become widespread. Generally, electronic shelf labels display product information such as the product price and product name.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a technology that classifies electronic shelf labels by area and collectively changes the display information of electronic shelf labels that are classified into an area specified by an operator. Patent Document 2 describes a technology that performs image recognition in a computer on image data captured by a camera of a display shelf, and outputs information when a shortage or lack of a product is detected in a monitoring area set based on the position of the detected shelf label. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2009-22663 A [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2019 / 087792 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] If one does not know where an electronic shelf label is located, it may be difficult to, for example, select the electronic shelf label to check or change the display.

[0006] An example of an objective of the present disclosure is to provide a shelf label management system that facilitates the designation of electronic shelf labels. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A shelf label management system in one aspect of the present disclosure includes an acquisition means for acquiring data in which shelf label identification information that identifies the electronic shelf label and location information that indicates a location within a facility are associated for each electronic shelf label, a location accepting means for accepting a designation of a location on an image of the facility through a user's operation, a designated location identifying means for identifying location information of the facility that corresponds to the designated location, and a selection means for selecting, based on the acquired data, an electronic shelf label identified by shelf label identification information associated with the location information of the facility.

[0008] A shelf label management method in one aspect of the present disclosure acquires data for each electronic shelf label that associates shelf label identification information that identifies the electronic shelf label with location information that indicates a location within a facility, accepts designation of a location on an image of the facility through a user operation, identifies location information of the facility that corresponds to the designated location, and selects an electronic shelf label identified by the shelf label identification information associated with the location information of the facility based on the acquired data.

[0009] A program in one aspect of the present disclosure causes a computer to execute a process of acquiring data in which shelf label identification information that identifies the electronic shelf label and location information that indicates a location within a facility are associated with each electronic shelf label, accepting a user's operation to specify a location on an image of the facility, identifying location information of the facility that corresponds to the specified location, and selecting, based on the acquired data, an electronic shelf label identified by shelf label identification information associated with the location information of the facility.

[0010] The program may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium. Effect of the Invention

[0011] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to facilitate the specification of electronic shelf labels. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a store and shelves installed in the store. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a connection between the shelf label management system according to the first embodiment and other devices. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an electronic shelf label. [Figure 4] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a shelf label management system according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example before store position information in a store is associated with an electronic shelf label. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example in which store location information in a store is specified on an electronic shelf label. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example in which product information associated with store location information is displayed on an electronic shelf label. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing a first example of an operation relating to position association by the shelf label management system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example before different product information is associated with each of a plurality of electronic shelf labels. [Figure 10] 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which different product information is associated with each of a plurality of electronic shelf labels; [Figure 11] 11 is a flowchart showing a second example of an operation relating to position association by the shelf label management system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing Example 1 of specifying a position in an image of a store. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an electronic shelf label in an actual store. [Figure 14] 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which product information displayed on a selected electronic shelf label is displayed on a terminal device; FIG. [Figure 15] 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of changing product information displayed on a selected electronic shelf label; FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a second example of specifying a position in an image of a store. [Figure 17]11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which product information displayed on a selected electronic shelf label is displayed on a terminal device; FIG. [Figure 18] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation related to selection of an electronic shelf label by the shelf label management system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which an electronic shelf label is in an area different from the area of ​​a product with which it is associated. [Figure 20] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a first notification example. [Figure 21] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a second notification example. [Figure 22] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation for notifying a position shift of an electronic shelf label by the shelf label management system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a shelf label management system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 24] 13 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the shelf label management system according to the second embodiment. [Diagram 25] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a computer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of a shelf label management system, a shelf label management method, a program, and a non-transitory recording medium for recording a program according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The disclosed technology is not limited to the embodiments.

[0014] In each embodiment, the facility is not particularly limited to being outdoors or indoors, and may be, for example, a store, a factory, a warehouse, etc. Furthermore, the fixtures on which the electronic shelf labels are placed are not particularly limited to being shelves, baskets, etc.

[0015] (Embodiment 1) In the first embodiment, a store is taken as an example of the facility, shelves are taken as an example of the fixtures, and an example of controlling the output of electronic shelf labels placed on shelves installed in the store will be described. For this reason, the location information is also called store location information.

[0016] Fig. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a store and shelves installed in the store. In Fig. 1, a plurality of shelves A1 to A8 are installed in the store.

[0017] Here, the store may be, for example, a supermarket, a super center, a convenience store, a mass retailer, a home center, a drug store, a store that sells apparel products, or an independently owned store such as a bakery or a prepared food store, and is not particularly limited.

[0018] The number of shelves is just an example and may be one or more, and is not particularly limited.

[0019] Fig. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a connection between the shelf label management system according to the first embodiment and other devices. The shelf label management system 10 is connected to a terminal device 11, a device 12, an imaging device 14, and the like via a communication network NT. In Fig. 2, one communication network NT is shown as an example for ease of explanation, but the shelf label management system 10 may be connected to each device or each device via a different communication network NT. The device 12 is a beacon device or an infrared communication device.

[0020] The shelf label management system 10 controls the output of the electronic shelf labels D via the device 12. Specifically, the shelf label management system 10 transmits control information to the device 12, and the device 12 transmits control information to the electronic shelf labels D. Here, the device 12 and the electronic shelf labels D can transmit and receive data via infrared communication and wireless communication.

[0021] In the first embodiment, for ease of explanation, one terminal device 11 is described as an example, but the shelf label management system 10 may be connected to multiple terminal devices 11. The imaging device 14 is installed in a store and is capable of capturing an image of a shelf on which an electronic shelf label D is installed. The number of imaging devices 14 is not particularly limited.

[0022] Furthermore, the device 12 has a function capable of short-distance wireless communication with the electronic shelf label D. For example, the device 12 is a beacon device. Alternatively, the device 12 has a function capable of communicating with the electronic shelf label D by infrared rays. For example, the device 12 is an infrared communication device.

[0023] The number of devices 12 is not particularly limited as long as it is a number that allows the position of the electronic shelf label D to be identified.

[0024] There is no particular limit to the number of electronic shelf labels D. The electronic shelf labels D will be described with reference to FIG.

[0025] 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an electronic shelf label D. The electronic shelf label D includes, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) 131 and a display device 132. The LED 131 is an example of a lighting device, and the type of lighting device is not particularly limited. The display device 132 may be electronic paper or an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and is not particularly limited. The LED 131 and the display device 132 are provided on the front surface of the electronic shelf label D. Although not shown, for example, a hook is provided on the back surface of the electronic shelf label D, and the electronic shelf label D is placed on a shelf by the hook.

[0026] Although not shown, the electronic shelf label D has a function capable of infrared communication with the device 12 and the terminal device 11. By using infrared communication, the power consumption of the electronic shelf label D can be reduced.

[0027] Alternatively, the electronic shelf label D may have a function capable of wireless communication with the device 12 and the terminal device 11.

[0028] The configuration of the electronic shelf label D is merely an example and is not particularly limited.

[0029] 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of the shelf label management system 10 according to the first embodiment. The shelf label management system 10 includes an acquisition unit 101, a position identification unit 102, an association unit 103, a first output control unit 104, an instruction reception unit 105, a notification unit 106, a position reception unit 107, a designated position identification unit 108, a selection unit 109, an imaging control unit 110, a second output control unit 111, a product information reception unit 112, and a determination unit 113.

[0030] The shelf label management system 10 also has a display product DB (DataBase) 1001 and a shelf label DB 1002. The display product DB 1001 stores, for each position in the store, store location information indicating the position in the store and product information of the product to be outputted by the electronic shelf label D displayed near the position in association with each other. The expression format of the store location information is not particularly limited as long as the position in the store can be specified. Each position in the store may be a position indicating an aisle position, a shelf position, a shelf and a shelf level, a position on the shelf such as up and down, left and right, or a position indicating an area in which the product is displayed. Specifically, for example, the store location information may be position information indicating an aisle position, position information indicating a shelf position, position information indicating a shelf position, a shelf and a shelf level, a position on the shelf such as up and down, left and right, a coordinate value in the store, or identification information for identifying the device 12 used to measure the position of the electronic shelf label D, and is not particularly limited. The product information is not particularly limited as long as it is information on the product to be displayed on the display device 132 of the electronic shelf label D, such as the name of the product and the price of the product.

[0031] Furthermore, the shelf label DB 1002 stores store location information indicating the location in the store where the electronic shelf label D is installed for each electronic shelf label D. For example, the shelf label DB 1002 stores the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label D in association with the store location information. Note that, for example, before receiving an instruction to associate a position with each electronic shelf label D, the store location information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label D in the shelf label DB 1002 may be empty.

[0032] Next, each functional unit will be described.

[0033] <Example of associating store location information with electronic shelf tag D> First, an example in which store position information in a store is associated with an electronic shelf label D will be described.

[0034] The instruction receiving unit 105 receives an instruction to associate the positions of the electronic shelf labels D. For example, the instruction receiving unit 105 may receive an instruction to associate the positions of the electronic shelf labels D by a user's operation on the terminal device 11. The instruction receiving unit 105 may receive an association instruction for each electronic shelf label D, or may receive an association instruction for multiple electronic shelf labels D collectively. For example, if the facility is a store, the user may be a store clerk. The store clerk may take the electronic shelf label D to a shelf and then input an instruction to associate the positions of the electronic shelf labels D to the terminal device 11. The instruction receiving unit 105 then receives an instruction to associate the positions of the electronic shelf labels D by the operation of the store clerk.

[0035] Next, when the instruction receiving unit 105 receives an instruction to associate the position of the electronic shelf label D, the position identifying unit 102 identifies store position information indicating the position of the electronic shelf label D in the store. Specifically, for example, the position identifying unit 102 identifies the position of the electronic shelf label D in the store. For example, the position identifying unit 102 measures the position of the electronic shelf label D based on the communication strength of wireless communication between the device 12 fixedly arranged in the store and the electronic shelf label D. Alternatively, for example, the position identifying unit 102 measures the position of the electronic shelf label D based on the communication strength of infrared communication between the device 12 fixedly arranged in the store and the electronic shelf label D.

[0036] The associating unit 103 associates the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label D with the specified store location information. Specifically, for example, the associating unit 103 associates the shelf label identification information with the specified store location information and outputs them. To associate and output them means, for example, that the associating unit 103 associates the shelf label identification information with the specified store location information and stores them in the shelf label DB 1002 or the like. It is a matter .

[0037] The first output control unit 104 causes the electronic shelf label D to output product information associated with the store location information. Specifically, for example, the first output control unit 104 causes the display device 132 of the electronic shelf label D to display the product information. More specifically, for example, the first output control unit 104 causes the display device 132 of the electronic shelf label D to display the product information by wireless communication via a device 12 that is fixedly arranged in the store. Alternatively, for example, the first output control unit 104 causes the display device 132 of the electronic shelf label D to display the product information by infrared communication via a device 12 that is fixedly arranged in the store.

[0038] When the identified store location information is already associated with shelf label identification information of another electronic shelf label D, the association unit 103 does not need to associate the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label D with the identified store location information. Since another electronic shelf label D has already been assigned, the second output control unit 111 may notify the store clerk to place the electronic shelf label D in another location. As a method of notifying, the second output control unit 111 notifies the terminal device 11 of the store clerk.

[0039] An example in which store location information is associated with an electronic shelf label D will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0040] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an electronic shelf label D before store position information in a store is associated with the electronic shelf label D.

[0041] In Fig. 5, shelf A2 has an area where milk is displayed and an area where eggs are displayed. In Fig. 5, for example, the store location information of the area where milk is displayed is a2-l. On the other hand, the store location information of the area where eggs are displayed is a2-r. In addition, device 12-1 capable of identifying store location information a2-l and device 12-2 capable of identifying store location information a2-r are installed on the shelf.

[0042] 5, the store location information of the electronic shelf label D4 is empty in the shelf label DB 1002. For example, a store clerk takes the electronic shelf label D to a shelf and sets it on the shelf.

[0043] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example in which store position information in a store is specified for an electronic shelf label D. When the instruction receiving unit 105 receives an instruction to associate the position of the electronic shelf label D, the position identifying unit 102 identifies store position information indicating the position of the electronic shelf label D in the store by wireless communication or infrared communication via a device 12 fixedly arranged in the store. In FIG. 6, store position information a2-l is identified. The associating unit 103 associates the store position information a2-l with the shelf label identification information d4 of the electronic shelf label D4. For example, the associating unit 103 associates the store position information a2-l with the shelf label identification information d4 of the electronic shelf label D4 and stores them in the shelf label DB 1002. As a result, the shelf label identification information d4 of the electronic shelf label D4 and the product information are associated with each other via the shelf label DB 1002 and the displayed product DB 1001.

[0044] 7 is a diagram showing an example in which product information associated with store location information is displayed on the electronic shelf label D. The first output control unit 104 causes the display device 132 of the electronic shelf label D4 to output product information associated with the store location information a2-l. Note that the product name "Milk" and the price "200 yen" are associated with the store location information a2-l as product information. Therefore, the product name "Milk" and the price "200 yen" are displayed on the electronic shelf label D1.

[0045] 8 is a flowchart showing a first operation example of position association by the shelf label management system 10 according to the first embodiment. The acquisition unit 101 acquires data in which store position information and product information are associated with each other (step S101). Here, for example, in step S101, the acquisition unit 101 may acquire the display product DB 1001. Instruction reception unit 105 The controller 101 judges whether an instruction to associate the position of the electronic shelf label D has been received (step S102). If an instruction to associate the position of the electronic shelf label D has not been received (step S102: No), Instruction reception unit 105 Then, the process returns to step S102.

[0046] When an instruction to associate the position of the electronic shelf label D is received (step S102: Yes), the position identifying unit 102 identifies store position information indicating the position of the electronic shelf label D (step S103). In step S103, the position identifying unit 102 locates the position of the electronic shelf label D by wireless communication or infrared communication using a device 12 that is fixedly installed in the store.

[0047] Next, the associating unit 103 associates the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label D with the store location information (step S104). In step S104, the associating unit 103 associates the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label D with the store location information and stores them in the shelf label DB 1002.

[0048] The first output control unit 104 causes the electronic shelf label D to display product information associated with the store position information based on the acquired display product DB 1001 and shelf label DB 1002 (step S105). In step S105, the position identification unit 102 causes the display device 132 of the electronic shelf label D to display the product information by wireless communication or infrared communication using a device 12 that is fixedly installed in the store.

[0049] When associating the electronic shelf label D with store position information in a store, if there are a large number of electronic shelf labels D, it takes a lot of work for the store clerk. As described above, in the first embodiment, the shelf label management system 10 acquires data in which, for each position in a facility, position information indicating the position is associated with product information of products displayed near the position. Then, when the shelf label management system 10 receives an instruction to associate the position of the electronic shelf label D, it specifies the position information indicating the position in the facility where the electronic shelf label D is placed, associates the identification information of the electronic shelf label D with the specified position information, and causes the electronic shelf label D to output the product information associated with the specified position information. This can save the store clerk the work of associating the electronic shelf label D with store position information. Also, compared to the case where the electronic shelf label D reads position information from an electronic tag or the like, in the first embodiment, the electronic shelf label D only needs to communicate with a device 12 that is generally provided, so there is no need to pay for an electronic tag or the like, and costs can be reduced.

[0050] <Example of associating location information with n electronic shelf labels D> Next, an example will be given and explained where there are n electronic shelf labels D and the product information of m products is associated with the store location information. Here, the m products are different from each other. Therefore, the store location information is associated with the product information of each of the m products.

[0051] The location specifying unit 102 specifies location information for each of the plurality of electronic shelf labels D.

[0052] When the location information specified for a plurality of electronic shelf labels D is the same, the association unit 103 associates the specified location information with the shelf label identification information of each of the plurality of electronic shelf labels D. Specifically, for example, when the association unit 103 associates product information with the shelf label identification information, the association unit 103 may associate the shelf label identification information with the product information associated with the location information and store the result in the storage unit. Alternatively, when the store location information in the display product DB1001 is distinguished in more detail than the accuracy of the location that can be specified by the device 12, the store location information and the product information are associated in the display product DB1001, and the association unit 103 may associate the shelf label identification information with the store location information and store the result in the shelf label DB1002. In the following description, an example will be given and explained where the store location information in the display product DB1001 is distinguished in more detail than the accuracy of the store location information that can be specified by the device 12.

[0053] For example, when the store location information specified for n electronic shelf labels D is the same, if n and m are the same, the association unit 103 associates the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf labels D with the store location information so that different product information is assigned to each of the n electronic shelf labels D. Assigning different product information to each of the n electronic shelf labels D means that different product information is displayed for each of the n electronic shelf labels D.

[0054] Furthermore, when the number n of the multiple electronic shelf labels D is greater than the number m of products identified by product information associated with the identified store location information, the association unit 103 associates the store location information such that different product information is assigned to each of the shelf label identification information of m electronic shelf labels D among the multiple electronic shelf labels D. However, the association unit 103 does not need to associate the store location information with the shelf label identification information of a number of electronic shelf labels D that exceeds the number m of products among the multiple electronic shelf labels D.

[0055] Then, the first output control unit 104 causes the electronic shelf label D to display the product information associated with the store location information based on the display product DB 1001. Display The electronic shelf labels D may be moved to appropriate positions on the shelves based on the product information displayed on the electronic shelf labels D by visual inspection.

[0056] Furthermore, since product information is not displayed on the electronic shelf labels D for more than several meters of products, the store clerk can simply collect the electronic shelf labels D that do not display product information.

[0057] Fig. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example before different product information is associated with each of a plurality of electronic shelf labels D. In Fig. 9, store location information a2-l can be specified by device 12, and the store location information a2-l is more specifically divided into store location information a2-l-1 and store location information a2-l-2. The product information associated with the store location information a2-l-1 is the product name "cheese" and the price "400 yen". The product information associated with the store location information a2-l-2 is the product name "milk" and the price "200 yen".

[0058] 9, the store clerk places electronic shelf labels D4 to D6 on the left side of the shelf. Then, when the instruction receiving unit 105 receives an instruction to associate the positions of the electronic shelf labels D, the position identifying unit 102 identifies store position information indicating the positions in the store for each of the electronic shelf labels D. Here, store position information a2-l is identified.

[0059] 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which different product information is associated with each of a plurality of electronic shelf labels D. When the same store location information is identified for a plurality of electronic shelf labels D, the associating unit 103 associates the location information such that different product information is associated with the shelf label identification information of each of the plurality of electronic shelf labels D.

[0060] Specifically, for example, the association unit 103 associates the shelf label identification information d4 of the electronic shelf label D4 with the store location information a2-l-2. As a result, the shelf label identification information d4 of the electronic shelf label D4 is associated with product information of the product name "Milk" and the price "200 yen". Specifically, for example, the association unit 103 associates the shelf label identification information d5 of the electronic shelf label D5 with the store location information a2-l-1. As a result, the shelf label identification information d5 of the electronic shelf label D5 is associated with product information of the product name "Cheese" and the price "400 yen".

[0061] For example, the association unit 103 does not associate the store location information with the shelf label identification information d6 of the electronic shelf label D6.

[0062] The first output control unit 104 causes the electronic shelf label D4 to display product information associated with the store location information based on the display product DB 1001. Then, the first output control unit 104 causes the electronic shelf label D5 to display product information associated with the store location information based on the display product DB 1001.

[0063] Also, for example, the electronic shelf tag D4 installed in the milk area may have store location information a2-l- 1 The store location information a2-l- 2 In this case, the electronic shelf label D4 displays product information such as the product name "cheese" and the price "400 yen," and the electronic shelf label D5 displays product information such as the product name "milk" and the price "200 yen." In such a case, the store clerk can check the displays on the electronic shelf labels D5 and D4 and replace the electronic shelf labels in the appropriate positions.

[0064] In addition, since the electronic shelf label D6 is not associated with store location information, no product information is displayed on the electronic shelf label D6. Therefore, the store clerk may confirm that no product information is displayed on the electronic shelf label D6 and collect the electronic shelf label D6.

[0065] Furthermore, when the number n of electronic shelf labels D is less than the number m of products, the notification unit 106 may notify a store clerk that there is a shortage of electronic shelf labels D. Specifically, for example, the notification unit 106 notifies the store clerk's terminal device 11 that there is a shortage of electronic shelf labels D. Furthermore, the notification unit 106 may notify the store clerk's terminal device 11 of the number of missing electronic shelf labels D.

[0066] 11 is a flowchart showing a second operation example of position association by the shelf label management system 10 according to the first embodiment. The acquisition unit 101 acquires data in which shelf label identification information and product information are associated with each other (step S111). Instruction reception unit 105 The controller 10 determines whether an instruction to associate the position of the electronic shelf label D has been received (step S112). If an instruction to associate the position of the electronic shelf label D has not been received (step S112: No), Instruction reception unit 105 Then, the process returns to step S112.

[0067] When an instruction to associate the position of the electronic shelf label D is received (step S112: Yes), the position identifying unit 102 identifies store position information indicating the position of the electronic shelf label D (step S113). In step S113, the position identifying unit 102 locates the position of the electronic shelf label D by wireless communication or infrared communication using a device 12 that is fixedly installed in the store.

[0068] Next, the association unit 103 determines whether the number n of electronic shelf labels D is equal to or greater than the number m of products (step S114). As described above, the number m of products is the number of products identified by the product information associated with the identified store location information.

[0069] If the number n of electronic shelf labels D is equal to or greater than the number m of products (step S114: Yes), the association unit 103 associates the store location information with the shelf label identification information that identifies the m electronic shelf labels D such that the product information associated with the identified store location information is different (step S115). Note that in step S115, the association unit 103 does not associate the store location information with electronic shelf labels D that exceed m. The first output control unit 104 causes the m electronic shelf labels D to display the product information associated with the store location information (step S116), and ends the process.

[0070] If the number n of electronic shelf labels D is not equal to or greater than the number m of products (step S114: No), the association unit 103 associates the identified store location information with the n electronic shelf labels D such that the product information associated with each of the n electronic shelf labels D is different (step S117). The first output control unit 104 causes the n electronic shelf labels D to display the associated product information (step S118), and ends the process.

[0071] As described above, in the first embodiment, when the position information specified for multiple electronic shelf labels D is the same, the shelf label management system 10 associates store position information with the shelf label identification information of each of the multiple electronic shelf labels D so that the product information is different. Then, the shelf label management system 10 displays the product information associated with the store position information on the display device 132 of each of the multiple electronic shelf labels D. This allows the store clerk to display product information on the required number of electronic shelf labels D simply by arranging n electronic shelf labels D around the shelf. This saves the store clerk time.

[0072] <Example of selecting Electronic Shelf Label D> Next, an example will be described in which a user selects an electronic shelf label D. If the facility is a store, the user is, for example, a store clerk or a customer. If the facility is a warehouse or a factory, the user is, for example, a worker.

[0073] The acquiring unit 101 acquires data in which shelf label identification information and store location information are associated with each other. As described above, for example, the shelf label DB 1002 stores, for each electronic shelf label D, shelf label identification information that identifies the electronic shelf label D and store location information that indicates a location in the store in association with each other. Therefore, for example, the acquiring unit 101 acquires the shelf label DB 1002 as this data.

[0074] The position receiving unit 107 receives a designation of a position in a store through a user operation. The method of designating the position is not particularly limited. For example, the position receiving unit 107 receives a designation of a position on an image in a store through a user operation. Here, the user operation is, for example, an operation of the user on the user's terminal device 11. The image here may be an image showing a map of the store, or may be an image of each shelf provided in the store.

[0075] The designated position identifying unit 108 identifies store position information corresponding to the designated position. Here, each position on the image and the store position information of the store corresponding to this position may be associated with each other in advance and stored as a DB. In this case, the designated position identifying unit 108 identifies the store position information associated with the designated position. Alternatively, the designated position identifying unit 108 may identify the store position information from the position of the imaging device 14 that captured the image and the angle of view of the image. Alternatively, the designated position identifying unit 108 may identify shelves in the vicinity of the area of ​​the designated position from the image, and identify the store position information from the position of the shelves.

[0076] The selection unit 109 selects an electronic shelf label D identified by shelf label identification information associated with the store location information based on the acquired data. Specifically, for example, the selection unit 109 identifies shelf label identification information associated with the store location information from the shelf label DB 1002, and selects an electronic shelf label D identified by the identified shelf label identification information.

[0077] The first output control unit 104 controls the output of the selected electronic shelf label D.

[0078] For example, the first output control unit 104 may turn on the lighting device of the selected electronic shelf label D.

[0079] Also, for example, the first output control Part 104 The product information receiving unit 112 may output new product information to the selected electronic shelf label D. The new product information may be received from the user. When receiving new product information from the user, for example, the product information receiving unit 112 may clerk The new product information is received by the operation of the item information receiving unit 112. The product information receiving unit 112 may update the product information associated with the specified store location information in the displayed product DB 1001 to the received product information. Then, the first output control unit 104 causes the display device 132 of the selected electronic shelf label D to display the updated product information.

[0080] Furthermore, the second output control unit 111 may cause the product information output to the selected electronic shelf label D to be output to the terminal device 11 of the user.

[0081] For example, the user may update the product information after checking the product information displayed on the terminal device 11. In such a case, the second output control unit 111 causes the product information output to the selected electronic shelf label D to be output to the user's terminal device 11, and then the first output control unit 104 causes the display device 132 of the selected electronic shelf label D to display new product information.

[0082] FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing a first example of specifying a position in an image of a store. The second output control unit 111 causes the display device of the terminal device 11 to display an image of the store. In FIG. 12, a screen including an image of the store is displayed on the terminal device 11. In FIG. 12, the image of the store is an image representing the sales floor of the store, for example, an image including a plurality of shelves installed in the store. The image of the store may be a map of the sales floor of the store. The image of the store may be a picture image or a captured image. Note that shelf identification information that allows shelves to be identified may be superimposed on the image of the store.

[0083] The position receiving unit 107 receives a designation of a position on the image of the store by a user operation. In Fig. 12, a mark indicating the position designated by the user operation may be displayed on the screen. In Fig. 12, this mark is an arrow.

[0084] When the terminal device 11 accepts the designation of a position, it transmits information indicating the accepted position to the shelf label management system 10. Then, the position accepting unit 107 can accept the designation of a position on the store image by receiving the information indicating the position from the terminal device 11. As described above, the designated position identifying unit 108 identifies the store position information corresponding to the designated position. Then, as described above, for example, the selecting unit 109 selects the electronic shelf label D associated with the store position information.

[0085] Fig. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an electronic shelf label D in an actual store. In Fig. 13, for example, the electronic shelf label D4 is selected. Electronic shelf labels D4 and D5 are installed on shelf A2. The electronic shelf label D4 is selected as the electronic shelf label D associated with the store position information corresponding to the specified position.

[0086] Then, the second output control unit 111 may cause the product information output to the selected electronic shelf label D to be output to the terminal device 11 of the user.

[0087] Fig. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which product information displayed on a selected electronic shelf label D is displayed on the terminal device 11. In Fig. 14, the second output control unit 111 displays the product information output to the selected electronic shelf label D in a manner superimposed on an image of the store displayed on the terminal device 11 of the user.

[0088] Next, an example of changing the product information displayed on the selected electronic shelf label D will be described.

[0089] 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of changing product information displayed on a selected electronic shelf label D. A screen including a "change displayed product information" button is displayed on the terminal device 11 together with an image of the store. This button is a button for receiving an instruction to input new product information.

[0090] For example, when this button is tapped, the second output control unit 111 may cause the display device of the terminal device 11 to display a screen capable of accepting new product information.

[0091] For example, the product information receiving unit 112 may clerk The new product information is received by the operation of the item information receiving unit 112. The product information receiving unit 112 may update the product information associated with the specified store location information in the displayed product DB 1001 to the received product information. Then, the first output control unit 104 causes the display device 132 of the selected electronic shelf label D to display the updated product information.

[0092] In the above drawings, an example has been described in which the image of the store includes, for example, a plurality of shelves installed in the store. For example, the image of the store may be an image in which the front of the shelves installed in the store can be identified. An image in which the front of the shelves can be identified is an image in which the products are displayed on the shelves and the electronic shelf tags D are installed on the shelves.

[0093] FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing a second example of specifying a position in an image of a store. In FIG. 16, a screen including an image of a store is displayed on terminal device 11. In FIG. 16, the image of the store focuses on one shelf in the store, and is an image of the shelf captured from the front. The shelf in FIG. 16 is assumed to be shelf A2. Although not shown, shelf identification information that allows the shelf to be identified may be displayed in the store image. In FIG. 16, a mark indicating the position specified by a user's operation may be displayed on the screen. In FIG. 16, this mark is an arrow.

[0094] As described above, the designated position identifying unit 108 identifies the store position information corresponding to the designated position. Then, as described above, for example, the selecting unit 109 selects the electronic shelf label D associated with the store position information. Here, it is assumed that the electronic shelf label D4 is selected.

[0095] Fig. 17 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which product information displayed on a selected electronic shelf label D is displayed on the terminal device 11. In Fig. 17, the second output control unit 111 displays the product information output to the selected electronic shelf label D4 in a manner superimposed on an image of the store displayed on the terminal device 11 of the user.

[0096] 18 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation related to selection of an electronic shelf label D by the shelf label management system 10 according to the first embodiment. The acquisition unit 101 acquires data in which shelf label identification information and store location information are associated with each other (step S121). In step S121, for example, the acquisition unit 101 acquires the shelf label DB 1002. The second output control unit 111 causes the display device of the terminal device 11 to display an image of the store (step S122).

[0097] The position receiving unit 107 receives a designation of a position of a store on the image (step S123). The designated position identifying unit 108 identifies store position information corresponding to the designated position (step S124). Here, each position on the image may be associated in advance with position information of the facility corresponding to this position. In this case, in step S124, the position receiving unit 107 identifies position information associated with the designated position. Alternatively, in step S124, the designated position identifying unit 108 may estimate the position information of the facility from the position of the imaging device 14 that captured the image and the angle of view of the image. Alternatively, the designated position identifying unit 108 may identify shelves near the area of ​​the designated position from the image, and estimate the position information of the facility from the position of the shelves.

[0098] The selection unit 109 selects an electronic shelf label D identified by shelf label identification information associated with the specified store location information based on the acquired shelf label DB 1002 (step S125). The second output control unit 111 causes the terminal device 11 to display product information displayed on the selected electronic shelf label D (step S126). For example, in step S126, the second output control unit 111 identifies product information displayed on the electronic shelf label D from the store location information associated with the shelf label identification information of the selected electronic shelf label D based on the shelf label DB 1002 and the displayed product DB 1001. Then, in step S126, the second output control unit 111 causes the display device of the terminal device 11 to display the identified product information.

[0099] The product information receiving unit 112 determines whether to change the product information (step S127). For example, in step S127, the product information receiving unit 112 determines whether to change the product information depending on whether a button for changing the product information has been tapped as shown in Fig. 15. When the button for changing the product information has been tapped, the product information receiving unit 112 determines that the product information is to be changed.

[0100] If it is not determined that the product information is to be changed (step S127: No), the shelf label management system 10 ends the process.

[0101] On the other hand, if it is determined that the product information is to be changed (step S127: Yes), the product information receiving unit 112 receives the product information (step S128). The first output control unit 104 causes the electronic shelf label D to display the received product information (step S129). Then, the shelf label management system 10 ends the process.

[0102] As described above, in the first embodiment, identification information for identifying the electronic shelf label D is associated with location information indicating a location in a facility for each electronic shelf label D. Then, the shelf label management system 10 accepts a user's operation to specify a location on an image of the facility, identifies location information of the facility corresponding to the specified location, and selects an electronic shelf label D associated with the location information of the facility. This makes it easier for a user to specify an electronic shelf label D. Also, for example, a user can specify an electronic shelf label D even if he or she does not know where in the facility the electronic shelf label D is installed.

[0103] Furthermore, the shelf label management system 10 controls the output of the selected electronic shelf label D. For example, the shelf label management system 10 may turn on a lighting device of the selected electronic shelf label D. For example, when a user is walking around looking for an electronic shelf label D, the lighting device of the selected electronic shelf label D is turned on using the terminal device 11, allowing the user to easily find the electronic shelf label D. Alternatively, for example, the shelf label management system 10 may cause the selected electronic shelf label D to output new product information. This makes it possible to update the product information displayed on the selected electronic shelf label D.

[0104] Furthermore, the shelf label management system 10 outputs the product information output on the selected electronic shelf label D to the user's terminal device 11. This allows the user to check the product information displayed on the selected electronic shelf label D.

[0105] <Example of notification of misalignment of electronic shelf tag D> An example will be described in which, when the electronic shelf label D deviates from the position indicated by the store location information associated with it in advance, a store clerk is notified that the electronic shelf label D has deviated.

[0106] Furthermore, after the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label D is associated with the store location information, the position identifying unit 102 may newly identify the store location information of the electronic shelf label D. The timing at which the position identifying unit 102 newly identifies the position of the electronic shelf label D is not particularly limited. For example, this timing may be a timing designated by the user, or may be a timing determined in advance, such as once a day or at a predetermined time. For example, when designated by the user, the instruction receiving unit 105 may receive an instruction to identify the position of the electronic shelf label D. Then, when the instruction receiving unit 105 receives the identification instruction, the position identifying unit 102 newly identifies, for example, the store location information of the electronic shelf label D.

[0107] The determination unit 113 determines whether the newly specified store location information is different from the store location information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label D. That is, the determination unit 113 determines whether the newly specified store location information is different from the store location information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label D. This enables the determination unit 113 to determine whether the current position of the electronic shelf label is not in a position where a product identified by product information displayed on the electronic shelf label is displayed, or is outside the area where the product is displayed.

[0108] Then, the notification unit 106 notifies the user when it is determined that the newly specified store location information is different from the store location information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label D. In this way, the notification unit 106 can notify the user when the current position of the electronic shelf label is not in a position where a product specified by the product information displayed on the electronic shelf label is displayed, or is not in an area where the product is displayed. The notification method is not particularly limited. The notification unit 106 may control the output of the electronic shelf label D so that the user can determine that the position of the electronic shelf label D is shifted. For example, when controlling the LED 131 of the electronic shelf label D, the notification unit 106 may notify the user by turning on the LED 131 in a predetermined manner, such as blinking the LED 131 of the electronic shelf label D or turning on the LED 131 of the electronic shelf label D in a predetermined color.

[0109] Alternatively, for example, the notification unit 106 may notify the user of the terminal device 11 by means of an electronic message or email.

[0110] Fig. 19 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which an electronic shelf label D is in an area different from the area of ​​the associated product. For example, in Fig. 19, the electronic shelf label D5 displays the product name "egg" and the price "200 yen" as product information. In Fig. 19, according to the shelf label DB 1002, the shelf label identification information d5 of the electronic shelf label D5 is associated with store position information a2-r. However, in Fig. 19, when the position specifying unit 102 newly measures the position of the electronic shelf label D5, it specifies the store position information a2-l.

[0111] The determination unit 113 determines that the newly identified store location information a2-l is different from the store location information a2-r associated with the shelf label identification information d5 of the electronic shelf label D5. Therefore, the notification unit 106 notifies the user that the position of the electronic shelf label D5 is shifted.

[0112] Fig. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing a first notification example. In Fig. 20, the notification unit 106 notifies the user via the second output control unit 111 that the position of the electronic shelf label D5 has shifted. Specifically, in Fig. 20, a screen including a message indicating that the position of the electronic shelf label D5 has shifted is displayed on the user's terminal device 11. Also, in Fig. 20, the screen includes store location information indicating the current position of the electronic shelf label D and store location information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label D.

[0113] In addition, although not shown in the figure, the notification unit 106 may cause the second output control unit 111 to cause the terminal device 11 to display an image of a map of the store and the current position indicated by the newly identified store location information on the map image.

[0114] Furthermore, the notification unit 106 may notify the user together with an image of the current shelf on which the electronic shelf label D is placed. For example, when the newly specified position information differs from the position information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label D, the imaging control unit 110 causes the imaging device 14 to capture an image of the shelf on which the electronic shelf label D is placed. Then, the imaging control unit 110 acquires the captured image of the shelf.

[0115] Here, the imaging device 14 may constantly capture images of the shelves, or may capture images of the shelves in response to an imaging instruction from the imaging control unit 110 when the newly specified position information differs from the position information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label D. For example, when the imaging device 14 constantly captures images of the shelves, the imaging control unit 110 may acquire from the imaging device 14 an image of the shelves that allows identification that the newly specified position information differs from the position information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label D.

[0116] The image of the shelf on which the electronic shelf label D is installed may be an image of a fixture located at a position indicated by newly specified position information, or may be an image of a fixture located at a position indicated by position information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label D. Then, the notification unit 106 may notify the user by transmitting the captured image to the terminal device 11 of the user. Alternatively, the notification unit 106 may notify the user by displaying the captured image on the terminal device 11 of the user.

[0117] Fig. 21 is an explanatory diagram showing a second notification example. In Fig. 21, the notification unit 106 causes the user's terminal device 11 to display an image of a shelf on which the electronic shelf label D5 is placed, via the second output control unit 111, and notifies the user that the position of the electronic shelf label D5 is misaligned. The notification unit 106 may identify the electronic shelf label D5 from the image, and display a mark indicating the electronic shelf label D5 superimposed on the image. In Fig. 21, this mark is an arrow.

[0118] Furthermore, an area in which products are displayed in a facility may be determined in advance. The determination unit 113 may determine, based on newly specified store location information, whether the current position of the electronic shelf label D is in the area of ​​the product specified by the store location information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label D. Then, the notification unit 106 notifies the user when the position of the electronic shelf label D is not in the area. The notification method is as described above.

[0119] 22 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation related to a notification of a position shift of an electronic shelf label D by the shelf label management system 10 according to the first embodiment. First, after the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label D is associated with the store position information, the position specifying unit 102 specifies the store position information indicating the current position of the electronic shelf label D at a predetermined timing (step S131).

[0120] Next, the determination unit 113 determines whether the current store location information of the electronic shelf label D is the same as the store location information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label D in the shelf label DB 1002 (step S132). If the current store location information of the electronic shelf label D is the same as the store location information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label D in the shelf label DB 1002 (step S132: Yes), the shelf label management system 10 ends the process. On the other hand, if the current store location information of the electronic shelf label D is different from the store location information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label D in the shelf label DB 1002 (step S132: No), the imaging control unit 110 causes the imaging device 14 to capture an image of the shelf on which the electronic shelf label D is placed (step S133). Then, the notification unit 106 notifies the user (step S134), and the shelf label management system 10 ends the process.

[0121] As described above, in the first embodiment, the shelf label management system 10 notifies the user when the current position of the electronic shelf label D differs from the position associated with the electronic shelf label D. This allows the user to know that the position of the electronic shelf label D has shifted.

[0122] The shelf label management system 10 also notifies the user of the positional deviation of the electronic shelf label D together with an image of the shelf captured in real time. This makes it easier for the user to confirm that a positional deviation of the electronic shelf label D has occurred.

[0123] (Embodiment 2) Next, the second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the second embodiment, the basic functions of the shelf label management system will be described. Below, the description of the contents that overlap with the above description will be omitted to the extent that the description of the second embodiment is not unclear.

[0124] 23 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of a shelf label management system according to the second embodiment. The shelf label management system 20 includes an acquisition unit 201, a position receiving unit 207, a designated position identifying unit 208, and a selection unit 209. The acquisition unit 201 is a basic function of the acquisition unit 101 in the first embodiment. The position receiving unit 207 is a basic function of the position receiving unit 107 in the first embodiment. The designated position identifying unit 208 is a basic function of the designated position identifying unit 108 in the first embodiment. The selection unit 209 is a basic function of the selection unit 109 in the first embodiment.

[0125] The acquiring unit 201 acquires data in which shelf label identification information for identifying an electronic shelf label is associated with location information indicating a location in a facility for each electronic shelf label.

[0126] The position receiving unit 207 receives a designation of a position on the image of the facility through a user operation. If the facility is a store, the user is, for example, a store clerk or a customer. If the facility is a warehouse or a factory, the user is, for example, a worker. Specifically, for example, the position receiving unit 207 receives a designation of a position on the image of the facility through a user operation on the user's terminal device.

[0127] The designated position identifying unit 208 identifies the position information of the facility corresponding to the designated position. Here, each position on the image may be associated in advance with the position information of the facility corresponding to this position. In this case, the designated position identifying unit 208 identifies the position information associated with the designated position. Alternatively, the designated position identifying unit 208 may estimate the position information of the facility from the position of the imaging device that captured the image and the angle of view of the image. Alternatively, the position accepting unit 207 may identify a shelf near the area of ​​the designated position from the image, and estimate the position information of the facility from the position of the shelf.

[0128] The selection unit 209 selects, based on the acquired data, an electronic shelf label identified by shelf label identification information associated with the location information of the facility.

[0129] 24 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the shelf label management system 20 according to the second embodiment. The acquisition unit 201 acquires data in which identification information for identifying an electronic shelf label is associated with location information indicating a location in a facility for each electronic shelf label (step S201). The location acceptance unit 207 accepts a location of the facility on the image designated by a user operation (step S202). The designated location identification unit 208 identifies the location information of the facility (step S203). The selection unit 209 selects an electronic shelf label identified by shelf label identification information associated with the location information of the facility (step S204), and ends the process.

[0130] As described above, in the second embodiment, the shelf label management system 20 acquires data that associates, for each electronic shelf label, identification information that identifies the electronic shelf label with location information that indicates a location in a facility. The shelf label management system 20 then accepts a user's operation to specify a location on an image of the facility, and identifies location information of the facility that corresponds to the specified location. The shelf label management system 20 then selects an electronic shelf label that is identified by the shelf label identification information that is associated with the location information of the facility. This makes it easier for a user to specify an electronic shelf label. Also, for example, a user can specify an electronic shelf label even if he or she does not know where the electronic shelf label is installed in a facility.

[0131] This concludes the description of each embodiment. Note that each embodiment may be used in combination. For example, in each embodiment, the shelf label management system may include each functional unit and part of the information.

[0132] Moreover, each of the above embodiments is not limited to the above-mentioned examples, and various modifications are possible. Furthermore, the configuration of the shelf label management system in each of the embodiments is not particularly limited. The shelf label management system may be realized by a single device, such as one terminal device 11 or one server. Alternatively, the shelf label management system may be realized by different devices for different functions or data. Furthermore, the shelf label management system may be configured by multiple servers.

[0133] Furthermore, between the shelf label management systems described in the respective embodiments and other devices, the subject of transmission and reception may be the information itself or an identifier representing the information, and is not particularly limited.

[0134] In each embodiment, each piece of information may include a part of the above-mentioned information. In addition, each piece of information may include information other than the above-mentioned information. Each piece of information may be divided into a plurality of tables or a plurality of pieces of information in more detail. In this way, the method of realizing each piece of information is not particularly limited.

[0135] Moreover, each screen displayed on the terminal device 11 is an example and is not particularly limited. Buttons, lists, check boxes, information display fields, input fields, etc., which are not shown, may be added to each screen. Furthermore, the background color of the screen, etc. may be changed.

[0136] Also, for example, in each embodiment, the process of generating information on the screen to be displayed on the terminal device 11 may be performed by a second output control unit of the shelf label management system or may be performed by the terminal device 11.

[0137] (Example of computer hardware configuration) Next, an example of a hardware configuration in which each device, such as the shelf label management system and the terminal device, described in each embodiment is realized by a computer will be described. Fig. 25 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a computer. For example, a part or all of each device can be realized by using any combination of a computer 80 and a program as shown in Fig. 25.

[0138] The computer 80 includes, for example, a processor 801, a read only memory (ROM) 802, a random access memory (RAM) 803, and a storage device 804. The computer 80 also includes a communication interface 805 and an input / output interface 806. The components are connected to each other, for example, via a bus 807. The number of each component is not particularly limited, and there may be one or more components.

[0139] The processor 801 controls the entire computer 80. The processor 801 may be, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a graphics processing unit (GPU). The computer 80 has a ROM 802, a RAM 803, and a storage device 804 as a storage unit. The storage device 804 may be, for example, a semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), or a solid state drive (SSD). For example, the storage device 804 stores an operating system (OS) program, an application program, or a program according to each embodiment. Alternatively, the ROM 802 stores an application program, or a program according to each embodiment. The RAM 803 is used as a work area for the processor 801.

[0140] The processor 801 also loads programs stored in the storage device 804, ROM 802, etc. Then, the processor 801 executes each process coded in the program. The processor 801 may also download various programs via the communication network NT. The processor 801 also functions as a part or the whole of the computer 80. Then, the processor 801 may execute processes or instructions in the illustrated flowchart based on the program.

[0141] The communication interface 805 is connected to a communication network NT, such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network), via a wireless or wired communication line. The communication network NT may be composed of a plurality of communication networks NT. As a result, the computer 80 is connected to an external device or an external computer 80 via the communication network NT. The communication interface 805 serves as an interface between the communication network NT and the inside of the computer 80. The communication interface 805 controls the input and output of data from the external device or the external computer 80.

[0142] The input / output interface 806 is connected to at least one of an input device, an output device, and an input / output device. The connection method may be wireless or wired. Examples of the input device include a keyboard, a mouse, and a microphone. Examples of the output device include a display device, a lighting device, and a speaker that outputs sound. Examples of the input / output device include a touch panel display. The input device, the output device, and the input / output device may be built into the computer 80 or may be external.

[0143] The hardware configuration of the computer 80 is an example. The computer 80 may have some of the components shown in FIG. 25. The computer 80 may have components other than those shown in FIG. 25. For example, the computer 80 may have a drive device or the like. The processor 801 may read out a program or data stored in a recording medium attached to the drive device or the like to the RAM 803. Examples of non-transient tangible recording media include optical disks, flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, and USB (Universal Serial Bus) memories. As described above, the computer 80 may have input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse. The computer 80 may have an output device such as a display. The computer 80 may have an input device, an output device, and an input / output device.

[0144] The computer 80 may have various sensors (not shown). The type of the sensor is not particularly limited. Examples of the sensor include an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a magnetic sensor, a GPS (Global Positioning System) sensor, and the like. Examples of the sensor include a fingerprint sensor, a LiDAR (Light, Detection and Ranging), a proximity sensor, and an ambient light sensor.

[0145] This concludes the description of the hardware configuration of each device. There are various variations in the method of realizing each device. For example, each device may be realized by any combination of a computer and a program that are different for each component. Furthermore, multiple components included in each device may be realized by any combination of a single computer and a program.

[0146] Also, some or all of the components of each device may be realized by circuits for specific applications. Also, some or all of the components of each device may be realized by general-purpose circuits including a processor such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). Also, some or all of the components of each device may be realized by a combination of circuits for specific applications and general-purpose circuits. Also, these circuits may be a single integrated circuit. Or, these circuits may be divided into multiple integrated circuits. And, the multiple integrated circuits may be configured by being connected via a bus or the like.

[0147] Furthermore, when some or all of the components of each device are realized by a plurality of computers, circuits, etc., the plurality of computers, circuits, etc. may be arranged in a centralized manner or in a distributed manner.

[0148] The shelf label management method described in each embodiment is realized by execution by the shelf label management system. Also, for example, the shelf label management method is realized by execution of a prepared program by a computer such as a server or terminal device 11. The program described in each embodiment is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as an HDD, SSD, flexible disk, optical disk, flexible disk, magneto-optical disk, or USB memory. Then, the program is executed by being read out from the recording medium by the computer. Also, the program may be distributed via a communication network NT.

[0149] The components of the shelf label management system in each embodiment described above may be realized by hardware such as a computer, or the components may be realized by a computer or firmware based on program control.

[0150] Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to each embodiment, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment. The configuration and details of each of the present disclosures may include embodiments to which various modifications that a person skilled in the art may understand within the scope of the present disclosure are applied. The present disclosure may include embodiments in which the matters described in this specification are appropriately combined or replaced as necessary. For example, matters described using a specific embodiment may also be applied to other embodiments to the extent that no contradiction occurs. For example, although multiple operations are described in order in the form of a flowchart, the order of description does not limit the order in which the multiple operations are performed. Therefore, when implementing each embodiment, the order of the multiple operations can be changed to the extent that the content is not impaired.

[0151] A part or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as follows: However, a part or all of the above-described embodiments is not limited to the following.

[0152] (Appendix 1) an acquisition means for acquiring data in which shelf label identification information for identifying the electronic shelf label and location information indicating a location in a facility are associated with each other for each electronic shelf label; a position receiving means for receiving a designation of a position on an image of the facility by a user operation; a designated location specifying means for specifying location information of the facility corresponding to the designated location; a selection means for selecting an electronic shelf label identified by shelf label identification information associated with location information of the facility based on the acquired data; A shelf label management system comprising: (Appendix 2) a first output control means for controlling an output of the selected electronic shelf label; 2. The shelf label management system of claim 1, comprising: (Appendix 3) the first output control means turns on a lighting device of the selected electronic shelf label; 3. The shelf label management system according to claim 2. (Appendix 4) The first output control means causes the selected electronic shelf label to output new product information. 3. The shelf label management system according to claim 2. (Appendix 5) a second output control means for causing the product information output to the selected electronic shelf label to be output to a terminal device of the user; 5. The shelf label management system according to claim 1, further comprising: (Appendix 6) a position specifying means for specifying position information representing a position of the electronic shelf label in the facility; a notification means for notifying the user when the newly specified position information differs from the position information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label; 6. The shelf label management system according to claim 1, further comprising: (Appendix 7) an imaging control means for causing an imaging device to capture an image of a fixture on which the electronic shelf label is installed when the newly specified position information is different from the position information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label; Equipped with The notification means transmits the captured image to a terminal device of the user. 7. The shelf label management system according to claim 6. (Appendix 8) The facility is at least one of a store, a factory, and a warehouse. 8. The shelf label management system according to any one of claims 1 to 7. (Appendix 9) acquiring data in which shelf label identification information for identifying the electronic shelf label and location information indicating a location in the facility are associated with each electronic shelf label; Accepting a user's operation to specify a location of the facility on the image; Identifying location information of the facility corresponding to the specified location; selecting an electronic shelf label identified by shelf label identification information associated with location information of the facility based on the acquired data; How to manage shelf labels. (Appendix 10) On the computer, acquiring data in which shelf label identification information for identifying the electronic shelf label and location information indicating a location in the facility are associated with each electronic shelf label; Accepting a user's operation to specify a location of the facility on the image; Identifying location information of the facility corresponding to the specified location; selecting an electronic shelf label identified by shelf label identification information associated with location information of the facility based on the acquired data; A non-transitory recording medium readable by the computer, which records a program for executing a process. (Appendix 11) On the computer, acquiring data in which shelf label identification information for identifying the electronic shelf label and location information indicating a location in the facility are associated with each electronic shelf label; Accepting a user's operation to specify a location of the facility on the image; Identifying location information of the facility corresponding to the specified location; selecting an electronic shelf label identified by shelf label identification information associated with location information of the facility based on the acquired data; A program that executes a process. [Explanation of symbols]

[0153] 10,20 Shelf label management system 11 Terminal Equipment 12 Equipment 12-1 Equipment 12-2 Equipment 14 Imaging device 80 Computer 101,201 Acquisition Department 102 Location identification part 103 Association section 104 First output control section 105 Instruction Reception Department 106 Notification Department 107,207 Location reception section 108,208 Specified position identification part 109,209 Selection 110 Imaging control unit 111 Second output control section 112 Product Information Reception Department 113 Judgment section 132 Display device 801 Processor 802 ROM 803 RAM 804 Storage device 805 Communication Interface 806 Input / Output Interface 807 Bus a2-l,a2-l-1,a2-l-2,a2-r Store location information A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8 shelves D,D1,D2,D3,D4,D5,D6 Electronic shelf label 1001 Display product DB 1002 Shelf label DB NT Communications Network

Claims

1. an acquiring means for acquiring data in which shelf label identification information for identifying the electronic shelf label and location information indicating a location in a facility are associated with each other for each electronic shelf label; a position receiving means for receiving a designation of a position on an image of the facility by a user operation; a designated location specifying means for specifying location information of the facility corresponding to the designated location; a selection means for selecting an electronic shelf label identified by shelf label identification information associated with location information of the facility based on the acquired data; a position specifying means for newly specifying position information representing a position of the electronic shelf label in the facility; a notification means for notifying the user when the newly specified position information differs from the position information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label; an imaging control means for causing an imaging device to capture an image of a fixture on which the electronic shelf label is installed when the newly specified position information differs from the position information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label; Equipped with The notification means transmits the captured image to a terminal device of the user. Shelf label management system.

2. a first output control means for controlling an output of the selected electronic shelf label; The shelf label management system according to claim 1 , comprising:

3. the first output control means turns on a lighting device of the selected electronic shelf label; The shelf label management system according to claim 2 .

4. the first output control means causes the selected electronic shelf label to output new product information; The shelf label management system according to claim 2 .

5. a second output control means for outputting the product information output to the selected electronic shelf label to a terminal device of the user; The shelf label management system according to claim 1 , further comprising:

6. The facility is at least one of a store, a factory, and a warehouse. The shelf label management system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. A computer comprising: acquiring data in which shelf label identification information for identifying the electronic shelf label and location information indicating a location in the facility are associated with each electronic shelf label; Accepting a user's operation to specify a location of the facility on the image; Identifying location information of the facility corresponding to the specified location; selecting an electronic shelf label identified by shelf label identification information associated with location information of the facility based on the acquired data; newly identifying location information that indicates a location of the electronic shelf label in the facility; When the newly specified position information is different from the position information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label, an image of a fixture on which the electronic shelf label is installed is captured by an imaging device; when the newly specified location information differs from the location information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label, the captured image is transmitted to a terminal device of the user to notify the user. A shelf label management method that performs the process.

8. On the computer, acquiring data in which shelf label identification information for identifying the electronic shelf label and location information indicating a location in the facility are associated with each electronic shelf label; Accepting a user's operation to specify a location of the facility on the image; Identifying location information of the facility corresponding to the specified location; selecting an electronic shelf label identified by shelf label identification information associated with location information of the facility based on the acquired data; newly identifying location information that indicates a location of the electronic shelf label in the facility; When the newly specified position information is different from the position information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label, an image of a fixture on which the electronic shelf label is installed is captured by an imaging device; when the newly specified location information differs from the location information associated with the shelf label identification information of the electronic shelf label, the captured image is transmitted to a terminal device of the user to notify the user. A program that executes a process.

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