Reading device and program

Abstract

To provide a reading device and a program capable of efficiently reading flag figures from items with invisible code symbols.SOLUTION: A reading device according to the embodiment includes: first reading means for reading an invisible code symbol affixed to the package surface of an item from an image of the item captured by an imaging device; second reading means for reading a predetermined flag figure affixed to the items to be serviced; third reading means for reading a service label representing a service to be given at the time of purchase of the items on condition that the second reading means has read the flag figure; and output means for outputting the reading result of the first reading means and outputting the reading result of the third reading means when the third reading means reads the service label. The flag figure is attached to each of the package surfaces with the code symbol, and the second reading means starts reading after the code symbol is read by the first reading means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a reading device and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in retail stores and the like that sell products, a reading device that reads code symbols such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes attached to products has been used. For example, in a retail store, based on information such as an identifier that can identify a product, which is read by the reading device from the code symbol, registration processing and the like of the product purchased by a customer are performed.

[0003] Also, in retail stores, a label (hereinafter referred to as a service label) indicating the service content is attached to products targeted for services such as discounts and price cuts. In this case, in order to prevent overlooking or misreading the service label, a flag seal representing a predetermined figure (hereinafter also referred to as a flag figure) that can be read by the reading device is attached to the product targeted for the service. Then, when the reading device reads the flag figure (flag seal) at the time of reading the code symbol, it performs processing such as notification to prompt the reading of the service label.

[0004] Also, recently, there are products in which a plurality of electronic watermark-like code symbols are embedded in the packaging of products. Such code symbols are invisible code symbols that cannot be visually recognized by humans, but can be read by a reading device. Therefore, for example, by embedding code symbols in each of the package surfaces of products, the code symbols can be read from any area of the product, and the trouble of searching for the code symbols can be saved.

[0005] By the way, in a configuration where a single code symbol is attached to a product package in a visible state, adding a flag graphic near the code symbol can prevent the flag graphic from being misread. However, in the configuration where the above-mentioned invisible code symbol is attached to the package surface, it is impossible to specify which code symbol is read, so it is difficult to add a flag graphic near the code symbol. In addition, if a flag seal (flag graphic) is inadvertently attached, the flag graphic cannot be read when the code symbol is read, and there is a possibility of misreading. In this case, since the operator may proceed with the transaction without providing services such as discounts without noticing the presence of the service label, there is room for further improvement.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a reading device and a program capable of efficiently reading a flag graphic from a product with an invisible code symbol attached.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The reading device of the embodiment includes a first reading means, a second reading means, a third reading means, and an output means. The first reading means reads an invisible code symbol attached to the package surface of the product imaged by the imaging device from the image of the product. The second reading means reads a predetermined flag graphic attached to the product to be serviced from the image. The third reading means reads a service label representing the service content provided at the time of purchase of the product from the image on the condition that the second reading means has read the flag graphic. The output means outputs the reading result of the first reading means and outputs the reading result of the third reading means when the third reading means has read the service label. Further, the flag graphic is attached to the package where the code symbol is attached. All of surface. of Attached to each of the surfaces, the second reading means starts reading after the code symbol has been read by the first reading means.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, the symbol reading device and program according to the present embodiment will be described. In the following embodiments, an application example to a POS (Point Of Sales) system installed in a store of a retail store will be described, but the present invention is not limited to this embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of the POS system 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the POS (Point Of Sales) system 1 includes a reading device 10 and a POS terminal 20 that executes data processing based on the data read by the reading device 10.

[0011] The reading device 10 is erected at a location (substantially the central part) where the operator and the customer face each other substantially, on the checkout counter 2 for placing a shopping basket or the like containing merchandise. The POS terminal 20 is provided near one end of the checkout counter 2. The reading device 10 and the POS terminal 20 are communicably connected by a transmission path (not shown). The reading device 10 and the POS terminal 20 constitute the POS system 1.

[0012] Based on information about the merchandise read by the reading device 10, etc., the POS terminal 20 executes sales data processing including registration processing and settlement processing of the merchandise purchased by the customer. The POS terminal 20 includes two display units 21 (a first display unit 211 and a second display unit 212) for the operator and for the customer, a keyboard 22, and a receipt printer 23. Also, the POS terminal 20 is installed, for example, on top of a drawer 30 that can freely store coins and banknotes.

[0013] The display unit 21 is a display device with a touch panel composed of a display device such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), etc. The keyboard 22 is an input device including various keyboards and key buttons such as numeric keys and subtotal keys. The receipt printer 23 is, for example, a thermal printer, and prints receipts, etc., according to the sales data processing executed by the POS terminal 20.

[0014] Next, the configuration of the reading device 10 will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an example of the configuration of the reading device 10. Here, FIG. 2 shows a state seen from the side where the imaging window 111 of the reading device 10 is provided (the side where the operator stands).

[0015] The reading device 10 includes a main body 11, an imaging unit 12, a first display unit 13, a keyboard 14, a second display unit 15, etc.

[0016] The main body 11 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape and is erected on the checkout counter 2. Here, it is preferable that the height of the main body 11 erected on the checkout counter 2 is below the eye level of the operator.

[0017] On the side of the standing position of the operator in the main body 11, an imaging window 111 serving as an opening is provided. An imaging unit 12 is installed within the imaging window 111. The operator causes the imaging unit 12 to image (read) the product by blocking the product brought by the customer, that is, the product to be purchased, from the imaging window 111.

[0018] The imaging unit 12 is an example of an imaging device. The imaging unit 12 includes an imaging element such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CMOS (Complementary MOS), and an optical system such as an imaging lens. The imaging lens forms an image of the image in the imaging area to be imaged by the imaging element on the imaging element. The imaging area refers to the area that forms an image on the area of the imaging element through the imaging lens from the imaging window 111. The imaging unit 12 images the outside of the main body 11 through the imaging window 111. Specifically, the imaging unit 12 images the product blocked from the imaging window 111.

[0019] Here, the product is an article such as food or clothing sold in a store, and is packaged in a box or a bag-shaped package. A code symbol such as a barcode or a two-dimensional code is attached to the package of the product by printing or the like. The code symbol holds information such as a product code that can identify the type of the product in a state encoded in a format conforming to a predetermined standard such as Code128.

[0020] Also, in the present embodiment, a plurality of code symbols are attached to the package of the product as invisible information by an electronic watermark technology such as Digimarc Barcode (registered trademark). Such code symbols are, for example, embedded as a pattern in the entire package of the product and can be read by the reading device 10. Thereby, the reading device 10 can read the code symbol regardless of which area of the product is imaged. Note that the method of realizing the invisible code symbol is not limited to the electronic watermark technology, and may be realized using other technologies.

[0021] In the reading device 10, when a code symbol is read from a product, information such as the product code held in the code symbol is output as a reading result. In the POS terminal 20, when a code symbol is read by the reading device 10, sales data processing including product registration processing and settlement processing is executed based on the product code held in the code symbol.

[0022] In addition, in this embodiment, the code symbol is attached to the entire package of the product, but it is not limited to this, and it may be in a form attached to one of a plurality of package surfaces or a part of the package surface.

[0023] Also, a label (hereinafter referred to as a service label) representing the service content to be provided is attached to the package of the product to which services such as price discounts, discounts, and point additions are provided in a visible state. The service label is represented by a predetermined figure or pattern and is individually attached to the product to which the service is provided. For example, the service label is attached to a product whose expiration date or consumption date is approaching.

[0024] In the reading device 10, when a service label is read from a product, the service content represented by the service label is output as a reading result. In the POS terminal 20, when a service label is read by the reading device 10, sales data processing for providing the service content (price discount, discount, etc.) corresponding to the service label is executed.

[0025] Note that the attachment position and number of service labels are not particularly limited. Also, in this embodiment, the reading device 10 is configured to read the service label, but the service content of the service label may be input via the keyboard 14 or the like by visual recognition and operation by the operator.

[0026] Also, a flag seal indicating that the service label is attached is attached to the package of the product to which the service label is attached. The flag seal represents a flag figure such as a circle or a double circle, which is a predetermined figure or pattern.

[0027] In the reading device 10, when a flag seal (flag figure) is read from a product, the operator is prompted to read the service label by executing a process or the like for notifying that the service label is attached. Thereby, the reading device 10 can prevent the service label from being over-read.

[0028] By the way, in a configuration in which a single code symbol is attached to a product package in a visible state, attaching a flag seal near the code symbol can prevent the flag seal from being over-read. However, in a configuration in which a plurality of invisible code symbols are attached to each of the package surfaces as in the present embodiment, the operator cannot identify which code symbol is read, so it is difficult to attach a flag seal near the code symbol. In addition, if the flag seal is carelessly attached, the flag seal cannot be read when the code symbol is read, and there is a possibility that the flag seal will be over-read.

[0029] Therefore, in the present embodiment, by attaching a flag seal to each of at least the package surfaces to which the code symbols are attached, the flag seal is prevented from being over-read. Here, FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of a product according to the present embodiment.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 3, a code symbol 41 is embedded as an electronic watermark in the package surface of the product 4. More specifically, a plurality of electronic watermark code symbols 41 are embedded in each of the six package surfaces of the box-shaped product 4. In FIG. 3, the area where a plurality of the same code symbols 41 are embedded is shown by hatching.

[0031] Further, when the product 4 is a product to be serviced, a service label 44 is attached to the package surface. FIG. 3 shows an example in which a service label 44 indicating a 50% discount (discount) from the price of the product is attached.

[0032] In addition, on the product 4 to which the service label 44 is attached, a flag seal 43 that holds the flag graphic 42 is attached to each package surface of the product 4. Here, in FIG. 3, an example is shown in which the flag seal 43, which is a tape-shaped seal member, is attached transversely across each surface of the package. A plurality of flag graphics 42 are continuously printed on the flag seal 43. By using the flag seal 43 in such a form, it is possible to efficiently add the flag graphic to the package surface.

[0033] As described above, in the product 4, the flag seal 43 (flag graphic) is attached to each surface of the package to which the code symbol 41 is attached. Thus, in this embodiment, when the code symbol 41 is read from any package surface of the product 4, it is possible to efficiently read the flag graphic attached to the package surface, thereby preventing the flag seal from being misread.

[0034] Note that, in FIG. 3, an example is shown in which the service label 44 is attached so as to overlap the flag seal 43, but the attachment position and number of the service label 44 are not limited to the example in FIG. 3.

[0035] Returning to FIG. 2, the description of the reading device 10 will be continued. The first display unit 13 is a display device for the operator. The first display unit 13 is provided above the imaging window 111. The first display unit 13 is a display device with a touch panel composed of a display device such as an LCD. The first display unit 13 displays the name, price, etc. of the registered product to the operator in response to the registration process by the POS terminal 20.

[0036] The keyboard 14 is provided near (on the side of) the first display unit 13. The keyboard 14 has various keys and the like. Note that, in FIG. 2, an example is shown in which the first display unit 13 and the keyboard 14 are integrally provided, but they may be provided separately.

[0037] The second display unit 15 is a display device with a touch panel composed of a display device such as an LCD. The second display unit 15 displays the product name, price, etc. of the registered product to the customer according to the sales registration process by the POS terminal 20.

[0038] Note that the configuration of the reading device 10 is not limited to the example in FIG. 1. For example, the reading device 10 may include an illumination device that illuminates the imaging area of the imaging unit 12 within the imaging window 111.

[0039] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the reading device 10 and the POS terminal 20.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 4, the reading device 10 includes a microcomputer 101 together with the above-described imaging unit 12, first display unit 13, keyboard 14, and second display unit 15.

[0041] The microcomputer 101 has, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 102, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 103, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 104. The CPU 102 is an example of a processor. The CPU 102 comprehensively controls each part of the reading device 10. The ROM 103 stores fixed information such as control programs in advance. The RAM 104 stores various data in a rewritable manner and functions as a work area and the like. Therefore, the microcomputer 101 constitutes an information processing unit that executes information processing. Note that all or part of the RAM 104 may be composed of a non-volatile storage medium. Further, the microcomputer 101 has a timekeeping function such as an RTC (Real Time Clock).

[0042] In addition, the reading device 10 includes a storage unit 105. The storage unit 105 is a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive). The storage unit 105 stores various programs and various data related to the operation of the reading device 10. For example, the reading device 10 stores a control program for realizing each functional configuration (see FIG. 5) described later.

[0043] In addition, the storage unit 105 stores a program for reading various information from the image of the product captured by the imaging unit 12. Specifically, the storage unit 105 stores a first program PRa for reading the code symbol attached to the package of the product. In addition, the storage unit 105 stores a second program PRb for reading the flag figure attached to the package of the product. In addition, the storage unit 105 stores a third program PRc for reading the service label attached to the package of the product.

[0044] Each of the first program PRa, the second program PRb, and the third program PRc includes processing contents (functions and algorithms) corresponding to the information to be read. For example, the first program PRa includes processing for visualizing the code symbol embedded as electronic watermark information, processing related to the detection of the code symbol, processing for decoding the code symbol, and the like. In addition, the second program PRb includes processing related to the recognition of the flag figure. In addition, the third program PRc includes processing related to the recognition of the service label. Here, there is no particular limitation on the reading method related to the reading of the code symbol and various figures (flag figure, service label), and known techniques can be used.

[0045] Note that the information stored in the storage unit 105 is not limited to the above example. For example, the storage unit 105 may store information indicating the shape and pattern features of the flag figure. In addition, the storage unit 105 may store information associating the shape and pattern features of the service label with the service content corresponding to the service label. In addition, the storage unit 105 may store a PLU file described later.

[0046] Further, the reading device 10 includes a communication interface 106. The communication interface 106 performs data communication with other devices (such as the POS terminal 20) via a connection line such as a LAN cable.

[0047] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 4, the POS terminal 20 includes a microcomputer 201 together with the above-described first display unit 211, second display unit 212, keyboard 22, receipt printer 23, and drawer 30.

[0048] The microcomputer 201 has, for example, a CPU 202, a ROM 203, and a RAM 204. The CPU 202 is an example of a processor. The CPU 202 comprehensively controls each part of the POS terminal 20. The ROM 203 stores fixed information such as control programs in advance. The RAM 204 stores various data in a rewritable manner and functions as a work area and the like. Therefore, the microcomputer 201 constitutes an information processing unit that executes information processing. Note that all or part of the RAM 204 may be configured by a non-volatile storage medium. Further, the microcomputer 201 has a timekeeping function such as an RTC.

[0049] Further, the POS terminal 20 includes a storage unit 205. The storage unit 205 is a storage device such as an HDD or an SSD. The storage unit 207 stores various programs and various data related to the operation of the POS terminal 20. For example, the storage unit 205 stores a program for sales data processing. Further, the storage unit 205 stores a PLU file.

[0050] A PLU file is a data file in which, for each product sold in a store, a product code of the product is associated with information such as the product name, type, price, etc. of the product corresponding to the product code (hereinafter also referred to as product information). In the POS terminal 20, the product information of the product corresponding to the product code read by the reading device 10 is read from the PLU file and temporarily stored in the RAM 204 or the like, thereby executing the product registration process. Note that the storage unit 205 may store the PLU file so as to be accessible from the reading device 10.

[0051] In addition, the POS terminal 20 includes a communication interface 206. The communication interface 206 performs data communication with other devices (reading device 10) via a connection line such as a LAN cable.

[0052] Note that the hardware configurations of the reading device 10 and the POS terminal 20 are not limited to those shown in FIG. 4. For example, in FIG. 4, the drawer 30 is configured as a component of the POS terminal 20, but it may be configured as an independent device connected to the POS terminal 20.

[0053] Next, with reference to FIG. 5, the functional configurations of the reading device 10 and the POS terminal 20 will be described. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configurations of the reading device 10 and the POS terminal 20. In FIG. 5, the functional configurations related between the reading device 10 and the POS terminal 20 are connected by a broken line.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 5, the reading device 10 includes an image acquisition unit 121, a reading processing unit 122, and an output control unit 123 as functional configurations.

[0055] Some or all of the functional configurations of the reading device 10 may be realized as a software configuration by cooperation between the CPU 102 and various programs stored in the storage unit 105. Also, some or all of the functional configurations of the reading device 10 may be realized by a hardware configuration such as the CPU 102 or a dedicated circuit.

[0056] The image acquisition unit 121 obtains the image captured by the imaging unit 12 by cooperating with the imaging unit 12. Specifically, when the start of a transaction is instructed by an operation via the keyboard 14 or the first display unit 13 or a signal notified from the POS terminal 20, the image acquisition unit 121 starts importing the image data captured by the imaging unit 12. Also, when the end of a transaction is instructed by an operation of the keyboard 14 or the first display unit 13 or a signal notified from the POS terminal 20, the image acquisition unit 121 stops importing the image data.

[0057] Note that the image acquisition unit 121 may control the start and end of imaging in response to an instruction to start or end a transaction by controlling the operation of the imaging unit 12. Also, the image acquisition unit 121 may use a known technique such as object detection to obtain only the image of an article whose separation distance from the imaging unit 12 (imaging window 111) is within a threshold value. Thereby, the image acquisition unit 121 can efficiently obtain the image of the merchandise that has been imaged.

[0058] The reading processing unit 122 is an example of a first reading means, a second reading means, and a third reading means. The reading processing unit 122 executes a reading process for reading various information attached to the package of the merchandise from the image of the merchandise acquired by the image acquisition unit 121. Specifically, the reading processing unit 122 reads a code symbol, a flag seal (flag graphic), and a service label by cooperating with the first program PRa, the second program PRb, and the third program PRc stored in the storage unit 105.

[0059] More specifically, the reading processing unit 122 first reads the code symbol from the image acquired by the image acquisition unit 121 by preferentially using the first program PRa. When the reading of the code symbol is successful, the reading processing unit 122 reads the flag graphic from the image acquired by the image acquisition unit 121 by using the second program PRb. Then, when the reading of the flag graphic is successful, the reading processing unit 122 uses the third program PRc to read the service label from the image acquired by the image acquisition unit 121.

[0060] Here, it is assumed that the time during which the reading processing unit 122 reads the flag graphic, that is, the time of using the second program PRb (hereinafter also referred to as the first waiting time) is predetermined. If the reading processing unit 122 cannot read the flag graphic within the first waiting time, it ends the use of the second program PRb, that is, stops reading the flag graphic, and switches to reading the code symbol by the first program PRa.

[0061] In this case, after ending the use of the second program PRb, the reading processing unit 122 may immediately switch to the first program PRa, or may wait (stop) the use of the first program PRa until switching to the image of the next product. In the former case, in order not to repeatedly read the product code attached to the same product, the reading processing unit 122 invalidates it by discarding the product code to be newly read until switching to the image of the next product. Note that the method of detecting the image of the next product is not particularly limited. For example, an existing technique such as a technique for detecting the switching of the subject based on the change of images (frame images) that are serially continuous in time series may be used for detection.

[0062] Also, the time during which the reading processing unit 122 reads the service label, that is, the time of using the third program PRc (hereinafter also referred to as the second waiting time) is preferably set without limit or longer than the first waiting time. When the reading processing unit 122 identifies the service content represented by the service label by reading the service label, it ends the use of the third program PRc and switches to the first program PRa. Here, the switching from the third program PRc to the first program PRa is performed in a state where duplicate reading of the product code is suppressed, similar to the switching from the second program PRb to the first program PRa.

[0063] Note that the reading processing unit 122 may stop reading the code symbol by the first program PRa while using the second program PRb and the third program PRc, or may perform the reading in parallel. In the latter case, in order to suppress duplicate reading of product codes, the reading processing unit 122 preferably invalidates the duplicate product codes until switching to the image of the next product. Further, when the reading processing unit 122 can read the flag figure, it is preferable to notify the operator of the presence of the service label via the first display unit 13 or the like.

[0064] When the reading processing unit 122 reads various information from the image of the product acquired by the image acquisition unit 121, it stores the information as registration information related to one product in the RAM 104 or the like. The registration information includes at least the product code, and when the service label is read, it includes the service content corresponding to the read service label.

[0065] The output control unit 123 is an example of the output means. The output control unit 123 outputs information such as the product code read by the reading processing unit 122 from the image of the product to the POS terminal 20. Specifically, the output control unit 123 outputs the registration information read from the image of the product by the reading process of the reading processing unit 122 to the POS terminal 20.

[0066] In addition, the output control unit 123 causes the first display unit 13 and the second display unit 15 to display a display screen based on the registration information. For example, the output control unit 123 causes the first display unit 13 and the second display unit 15 to display the product name, price, etc. of the product corresponding to the product code included in the registration information based on the PLU file stored in the storage unit 205 of the POS terminal 20. Further, when the service content is included in the registration information, the output control unit 123 causes the first display unit 13 and the second display unit 15 to display the service content and the price after applying the service.

[0067] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 5, the POS terminal 20 includes an information acquisition unit 221, a sales data processing unit 222, and an output control unit 223 as functional configurations.

[0068] Some or all of the functional components provided in the POS terminal 20 may be realized as a software configuration through the cooperation of the CPU 202 and various programs stored in the storage unit 205. Also, some or all of the functional components provided in the POS terminal 20 may be realized by a hardware configuration such as the CPU 202 or a dedicated circuit.

[0069] The information acquisition unit 221 acquires the registration information read by the reading device 10. Specifically, the information acquisition unit 221 acquires the registration information input from the reading device 10.

[0070] The sales data processing unit 222 executes sales data processing related to one transaction based on the registration information acquired by the information acquisition unit 221. Specifically, the sales data processing unit 222 executes the registration process for the product corresponding to the product code included in the registration information based on the PLU file. Also, when the sales data processing unit 222 receives an operation instructing the end of registration for one transaction via the keyboard 22 or the like, it executes an accounting process for calculating the total amount of the products based on the prices of each product registered until then.

[0071] When the service content is included in the registration information, the sales data processing unit 222 shall perform the registration process by applying the service content to the corresponding product. For example, when the service content indicates a price reduction or discount, the sales data processing unit 222 executes the registration process based on the price after subtracting the amount indicated by the service content from the price of the corresponding product.

[0072] The output control unit 223 controls the processing content and output of the sales data processing. For example, the output control unit 223 causes the information regarding the products registered in the registration process to be displayed on the display unit 21 (the first display unit 211 and the second display unit 212). Further, the output control unit 223 causes the information regarding the total amount of the products registered in one transaction, the payment amount paid by the customer, etc. to be displayed on the display unit 21 (the first display unit 211 and the second display unit 212). Further, when the settlement process is completed, the output control unit 223 causes the receipt printer 23 to output a receipt on which the details, total amount, payment amount, etc. of the products registered in one transaction are printed.

[0073] Next, with reference to FIG. 6, the operation of the reading device 10 will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing executed by the reading device 10. It is assumed that, as a premise of this processing, the image acquisition unit 121 sequentially acquires images.

[0074] First, the reading processing unit 122 reads a code symbol from the image captured by the imaging unit 12 by using the first program PRa (step S11). Next, the reading processing unit 122 determines whether the code symbol could be read (step S12).

[0075] If the code symbol could not be read (step S12; No), the reading processing unit 122 returns the processing to step S11 and reads the code symbol again. If the code symbol could be read (step S12; Yes), the reading processing unit 122 starts timing by the timing function (step S13) and proceeds to step S14.

[0076] Subsequently, the reading processing unit 122 reads a flag graphic from the image captured by the imaging unit 12 by using the second program PRb (step S14). Next, the reading processing unit 122 determines whether the flag graphic could be read (step S15).

[0077] If the flag figure cannot be read (step S15; No), the reading processing unit 122 determines whether the elapsed time has reached the first standby time (step S16). If the first standby time has not been reached (step S16; No), the reading processing unit 122 returns the process to step S14 to continue reading the flag figure. If the first standby time has been reached (step S16; Yes), the reading processing unit 122 transfers the process to step S20.

[0078] On the other hand, if the flag figure can be read in step S15 (step S15; Yes), the reading processing unit 122 stops and resets the time measurement by the time measurement function (step S17), and then proceeds to step S18. When the reading processing unit 122 can read the flag figure, it is preferable to prompt the operator to read the service label by displaying a message for notifying the presence of the service label on the first display unit 13.

[0079] Subsequently, the reading processing unit 122 reads the service label from the image captured by the imaging unit 12 by using the third program PRc (step S18). Next, the reading processing unit 122 determines whether the service label can be read (step S19).

[0080] Here, if the service label cannot be read (step S19; No), the reading processing unit 122 returns the process to step S18 to continue reading the service label. If the service label can be read (step S19; Yes), the reading processing unit 122 transfers the process to step S20.

[0081] Subsequently, the output control unit 123 outputs the information read by the reading processing unit 122 to the POS terminal 20 as registered information (step S20). Specifically, the output control unit 123 outputs the product code read in steps S11 and S12. Also, when the service label is read in steps S18 and S19, the service content corresponding to the service label is output together with the product code.

[0082] Subsequently, the reading processing unit 122 determines whether to end the reading process (step S21). For example, when the reading processing unit 122 is instructed to end the reading or registration of one transaction by an operation of the keyboard 14 or the first display unit 13 or a signal notified from the POS terminal 20, it determines to end the reading process.

[0083] If it is determined not to end the reading process (step S21: No), the reading processing unit 122 returns the process to step S11. On the other hand, if it is determined to end the reading process (step S21: Yes), the reading processing unit 122 ends this process.

[0084] As described above, for the product according to this embodiment, invisible code symbols are attached to each of the package surfaces, and when the product is a service target product, a flag figure indicating the presence of the service label is attached to each of the package surfaces to which the code symbols are attached.

[0085] Further, the reading device 10 according to this embodiment reads the invisible code symbols attached to the package surface of the product imaged by the imaging unit 12. Also, after the code symbols are read, the reading device 10 reads a predetermined flag figure attached to the service target product from the image of the product imaged by the imaging unit 12. Then, in the reading device 10, on the condition that the flag figure is read, the service label representing the service content is read from the image of the product imaged by the imaging unit 12.

[0086] As a result, when the reading device 10 reads a code symbol, it can read the flag graphic from the package surface on which the code symbol has been read. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently read the flag graphic from a product with an invisible code symbol attached. Also, for the operator, by directing the package surface with the flag graphic toward the imaging window 111, it is possible to efficiently read the code symbol and the flag graphic, thus improving convenience.

[0087] Note that the above-described embodiment can also be appropriately modified and implemented by changing a part of the configuration or function of the reading device 10. Therefore, hereinafter, a modification example according to the above-described embodiment will be described as another embodiment.

[0088] Note that hereinafter, mainly the differences from the above-described embodiment will be described, and detailed description of points common to the already described content will be omitted. Also, the modification examples described below may be implemented individually or in appropriate combination.

[0089] (Modification Example 1) In the above-described embodiment, the form in which a code symbol is attached to a product as information in the form of an electronic watermark for all products sold in a store has been described. However, not limited to this form, products with a visible normal code symbol (hereinafter also referred to as a normal code symbol) attached at a predetermined position on the package may be mixed.

[0090] In this case, the reading processing unit 122 may read the normal code symbol using the above-described first program PRa, but it is preferable to read it using a program customized for the normal code symbol. Also, in this case, the reading processing unit 122 may change the first waiting time for waiting to read the flag graphic according to whether the read code symbol is an electronic watermark or a normal code symbol (invisible or visible).

[0091] For example, in the case of a normal code symbol, the first waiting time may be increased as compared with the code symbol with an electronic watermark. Conversely, in the case of a normal code symbol, the first waiting time may be decreased as compared with the above-described code symbol with an electronic watermark. As an example, when a flag seal is attached near a normal code symbol, since the flag seal can be read promptly, it is preferable to shorten the first waiting time as compared with the code symbol with an electronic watermark.

[0092] Note that there is no particular limitation on the method for determining whether the read code symbol is an electronic watermark or a normal code symbol. For example, it may be determined based on the type of program used for reading.

[0093] (Modification Example 2) In the above-described embodiment, as an example of the flag seal, a tape-shaped seal member having a design in which a plurality of flag figures are continuously arranged was exemplified (see FIG. 3), but the form of the flag seal is not limited to this.

[0094] For example, the flag seal may hold information other than the flag figure. As an example, it may hold a message or the like indicating that it is a product to be serviced. Thereby, the customer can recognize that it is a product to be serviced by looking at the flag seal attached to the package surface of the product.

[0095] Also, the flag seal is not limited to a tape shape and may have other shapes, and the attachment method is not particularly limited. However, if the entire package surface with the code symbol is covered with the flag seal, the code symbol cannot be read. Therefore, it is preferable to suppress the area to which the flag seal is attached, for example, to be less than half or one-fourth of the area of the package surface. Also, in order to clarify the boundary with the pattern on the package surface, the base of the flag seal is preferably white or the like.

[0096] (Modification Example 3) In the above-described embodiment, the reading device 10 is configured to read information such as product codes from the images captured by the imaging unit 12. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and it may be configured such that the reading is performed on the POS terminal 20 side.

[0097] In this case, the reading device 10 outputs the images captured by the imaging unit 12 to the POS terminal 20. The POS terminal 20 reads information such as product codes from the images input from the reading device 10. Specifically, the POS terminal 20 has the functional configuration of the reading device 10 described with reference to FIG. 5, and by the function of the reading processing unit 122, reads product codes, flag patterns, and service labels.

[0098] (Modification Example 4) In the above-described embodiment, the reading device 10 and the POS terminal 20 are configured as separate systems. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and they may be integrated into a single device (hereinafter referred to as a sales data processing device). In this case, the sales data processing device may be, for example, a full self-service type sales data processing device operated by the customer himself / herself.

[0099] The programs executed by the respective devices in the above-described embodiment are provided by being pre-embedded in a storage medium. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and they may be configured to be recorded 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 format or an executable format file and provided.

[0100] Note that the storage medium is not limited to a medium independent of a computer or an embedded system, and also includes a storage medium that has downloaded and stored or temporarily stored a program transmitted via a LAN, the Internet, or the like.

[0101] Alternatively, the program executed by the reading device 10 of the above embodiment may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by being downloaded via the network. Further, the program executed by the reading device 10 of the above embodiment may be configured to be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0102] As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described. However, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. This novel embodiment can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. This embodiment and its modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are also included in the invention described in the claims and its equivalent scope.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0103] 10 Reading device 11 Main body 111 Imaging window 12 Imaging unit 13 First display unit 14 Keyboard 15 Second display unit 20 POS terminal 21 Display unit 211 First display unit 212 Second display unit 22 Keyboard 23 Receipt printer 30 Drawer 101 Microcomputer 102 CPU 103 ROM 104 RAM 105 Storage unit 106 Communication interface 121 Image acquisition unit 122 Reading processing unit 123 Output control unit 201 Microcomputer 202 CPU 203 ROM 204 RAM 205 Memory unit 206 Communication interface 221 Information acquisition unit 222 Sales data processing unit 223 Output control unit

Prior art documents

Patent documents

[0104]

Patent Document 1

Claims

1. first reading means for reading invisible code symbols attached to all surfaces of the package of the product from an image of the product captured by an imaging device; second reading means for reading a predetermined flag graphic attached to a product to be serviced from the image; third reading means for reading a service label representing service contents provided at the time of purchase of the product from the image on the condition that the second reading means has read the flag graphic; output means for outputting a reading result of the first reading means and, when the third reading means has read the service label, outputting a reading result of the third reading means; comprising; the flag graphic is attached to each of the surfaces of the package to which the code symbol is attached; the second reading means starts reading after the code symbol has been read by the first reading means, a reading device.

2. The reading device according to claim 1, wherein the flag graphic is printed on a tape-shaped seal member and is transversely attached across all surfaces of the package via the seal member.

3. the code symbol is embedded as an electronic watermark on all surfaces of the package; the first reading means reads the code symbol embedded as the electronic watermark from the image, the reading device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first reading means stops reading the code symbol when the second reading means starts reading the flag graphic.

5. The reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second reading means stops reading when it cannot read the flag graphic for a predetermined period of time.

6. A computer of a reading device, first reading means for reading invisible code symbols attached to all surfaces of the package of the product from an image of the product captured by an imaging device; second reading means for reading a predetermined flag graphic attached to a product to be serviced from the image; third reading means for reading a service label representing service contents provided at the time of purchase of the product from the image on the condition that the second reading means has read the flag graphic; An output means that outputs the reading result of the first reading means and outputs the reading result of the third reading means when the third reading means reads the service label, and functions as; The flag figure is attached to each of the surfaces of the package to which the code symbol is attached. A program in which the second reading means starts reading after the code symbol is read by the first reading means.

Images