Shelf label management system and method

Abstract

To enable effective use of an electronic shelf label.SOLUTION: A shelf label management system includes: first acquisition means for acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf tag; second acquisition means for acquiring an item identifier; print instruction means for instructing the electronic shelf label corresponding to the shelf label identifier to print item information corresponding to the item identifier according to an update count of the electronic shelf label with displayed contents; and update means for updating the displayed contents of the electronic shelf label according to the update count.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a shelf label management system and method for managing shelf labels used to display products. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, the use of electronic shelf labels has been increasing in stores such as supermarkets, drug stores, and electronics retailers. Electronic shelf labels are equipped with small displays that can display product information such as prices, and can receive and display the product information from a management device (see, for example, Patent Document 1). By using such electronic shelf labels, product displays can be easily changed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-024757 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, it would be cost prohibitive to install electronic shelf labels on all products, so there is a need for technology that can effectively utilize the limited number of electronic shelf labels.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to provide a shelf label management system and method that enables effective use of electronic shelf labels. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A shelf label management system according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first acquisition means for acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label, a second acquisition means for acquiring a product identifier, a print instruction means for instructing printing of product information corresponding to the product identifier in accordance with the number of updates to the display content of the electronic shelf label corresponding to the shelf label identifier, and an update means for updating the display content of the electronic shelf label in accordance with the number of updates.

[0007] A method according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first acquisition step of acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label, a second acquisition step of acquiring a product identifier, a print instruction step of issuing an instruction to print product information corresponding to the product identifier in accordance with the number of updates to the display content of the electronic shelf label corresponding to the shelf label identifier, and an update step of updating the display content of the electronic shelf label in accordance with the number of updates. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a shelf label management system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a management device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a product information database according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a transceiver according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an electronic shelf label information database according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a display example of an electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another display example of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a mobile terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 1 is a perspective view of a portable device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 11]5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the shelf label management system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing yet another display example of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another example of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a shelf label management system according to a second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this specification and drawings, elements that can be similarly described will be designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0010] The explanation will be given in the following order: 1. Overview of the embodiment 2. First embodiment 2.1.System Configuration 2.2. Example of operation 2.3. Variations 3. Second embodiment 3.1.System Configuration 3.2. Example of operation 4. Other Embodiments 5. Summary of the embodiment

[0011] <<1. Overview of the embodiment>> First, an outline of the embodiment will be described.

[0012] Generally, each electronic shelf label has an identifier, and the identifier is linked to a product to manage specific information about the product (for example, product name, selling price, specifications (place of origin), and sales promotion information). Furthermore, in supermarkets, for example, electronic shelf labels are typically managed by department. In such cases, even for the same cabbage in the produce department, the display on the electronic shelf label must be changed if the place of origin changes. For such products, it is more efficient to use electronic shelf labels than to issue handwritten POP advertisements each time. On the other hand, for standard items such as dry groceries, whose selling prices rarely change, linking them to electronic shelf labels is not very effective.

[0013] As mentioned above, electronic shelf labels are linked to suitable products for each department, but there are cases where all linked electronic shelf labels are used, and cases where spares are kept. By keeping spare electronic shelf labels, it is possible to respond to new products or unexpected events. An unexpected event is, for example, when the number of products handled increases and new electronic shelf labels need to be assigned. Another unexpected event is a malfunction of an electronic shelf label.

[0014] In this way, it is desirable to manage the switching between electronic shelf labels and paper price cards effectively.

[0015] Therefore, linking products that are updated (changed) frequently to electronic shelf labels and using price cards for products that are updated less frequently is an operation that will optimally derive investment effectiveness.

[0016] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to provide a shelf label management system and method that enables effective use of electronic shelf labels.

[0017] According to this embodiment, it is possible to switch between electronic shelf labels and price cards depending on the update frequency of the electronic shelf labels, thereby enabling efficient use of the electronic shelf labels and reducing investment costs.

[0018] <<2. First Embodiment>> Next, a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0019] 2.1. System Configuration FIG. 1 shows an example of a schematic configuration of a shelf label management system according to a first embodiment.

[0020] The shelf label management system 100 includes a management device 110, transceivers 120 and 130, electronic shelf labels 140a, 140b, and 140c (hereinafter, they will be referred to as 140 unless a distinction is particularly needed), a mobile terminal 150, and a printing device 160. The shelf label management system 100 is installed in stores such as supermarkets, drugstores, and electronics retailers.

[0021] The management device 110 is connected to a plurality of electronic shelf labels 140a, 140b, and 140c via a transceiver 120 so that they can communicate with each other. The management device 110 is also connected to a mobile terminal 150 and a printing device 160 used by a store clerk via a transceiver 130 so that they can communicate with each other. The communication may be wired or wireless. The numbers of the transceivers 120, the transceivers 130, the plurality of electronic shelf labels 140a, 140b, and 140c, the mobile terminals 150, and the printing devices 160 are not limited to the example shown in the figure.

[0022] 2 is a functional block diagram of a management device according to the first embodiment. The management device 110 includes a processing unit 111, a storage unit 116, a display unit 117, an input unit 118, and a communication interface unit 119.

[0023] The memory unit 116 is implemented by, for example, a ROM, a RAM, a storage memory, etc. The memory unit 116 temporarily or permanently stores programs (instructions) and parameters for the operation of the processing unit 111, as well as various data (for example, a product information database). The programs include one or more instructions for the operation of the processing unit 111.

[0024] The display unit 117 is, for example, an electronic paper or liquid crystal display, and displays various information to a user (for example, a manager, a store clerk, etc.) in accordance with display data output from the processing unit 111.

[0025] The input unit 118 is, for example, a mouse or a keyboard, and receives various inputs from the user. The input unit 118 provides the received input information to the processing unit 111 or stores it in the storage unit 116. The input unit 118 can also be a touch panel display integrated with the display unit 117.

[0026] The communication interface unit 119 is implemented by a network adapter and / or a network interface card, etc. The communication interface unit 119 receives signals from a network and transmits signals to the network. For example, the communication interface unit 119 communicates with the transceivers 120 and 130 via a wired or wireless network (e.g., a LAN (Local Area Network)).

[0027] The processing unit 111 is realized by executing a program stored in the storage unit 116. The processing unit 111 includes an update count determination unit 112, a print instruction unit 113, and an electronic shelf label update unit 114. The processing unit 111 may further include other components in addition to these components. In other words, the processing unit 111 may perform operations other than those of these components.

[0028] The update count determination unit 112 obtains the number of updates to the display content of the electronic shelf label of a product whose selling price has been changed by the user, compares the obtained number of updates with a predetermined threshold (i.e., a predetermined value), and determines whether to change from an electronic shelf label to a price card. The update count of the electronic shelf label can be obtained from the transceivers 120 and 130, which will be described later.

[0029] The print instruction unit 113 instructs the printer 160 to print the product information displayed on the electronic shelf label based on the determination result of the number of updates of the electronic shelf label. More specifically, if the number of updates of the electronic shelf label is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the print instruction unit 113 instructs the printer 160 to print the product information in order to switch from the electronic shelf label to a price card. This is because, when the number of updates is small, the efficiency improvement achieved by the electronic shelf label is small. Compared to price cards, electronic shelf labels can update display information such as prices more quickly, reducing the labor required for updating product information (e.g., printing and replacing price cards). However, if the number of updates is small, the investment cost becomes large. When the number of updates is small, the electronic shelf label can be switched to a price card, and unused electronic shelf labels can be collected and used to display other products. The user can input and set a predetermined threshold in advance via the input unit 118. The input predetermined threshold can be stored, for example, in the memory unit 116. The predetermined threshold may be set to a different value depending on the type (e.g., size) of the electronic shelf label, or may be set to a different value for each department or category. Furthermore, the number of updates and the target period may be set so as to be changeable as appropriate.

[0030] The electronic shelf label update unit 114 updates the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 according to the determination result of the number of updates. For example, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 updates the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 so as to erase (initialize) the product display content. When electronic paper is used for the display unit of the electronic shelf label 140, the initialization may display a solid color such as white or black, or an arbitrary initial display setting, or a display indicating unused or unset, etc. At this time, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 may cancel the correspondence between the electronic shelf label and the product (also referred to as link information or connection information) stored in the transceiver 120 (described later). Alternatively, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 may update the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 to product information of the product to be displayed next. Furthermore, when the electronic shelf label 140 is a device loaned from a provider, the initialization may display that the electronic shelf label 140 is a returned device, as well as the return destination, date, etc. If the electronic shelf label 140 is provided on a subscription basis, when the electronic shelf label 140 is returned or switched to use at another store, a message to that effect may be displayed. Furthermore, when the selling price of a product is changed, for example, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 updates the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 in accordance with the change. Note that when candidates for changing from price cards to electronic shelf labels have been determined (for example, when candidates have been extracted based on the number of updates or issuances of price cards over a predetermined period of time), the candidates may be changed in descending order of priority.

[0031] 3 shows an example of a product information database according to the first embodiment. The product information database (DB) 300 is stored in the storage unit 116 and stores product information data.

[0032] The product information DB 300 may include a JAN / PLU code (product identifier), a product name, and a selling price. A JAN / PLU code (product identifier) is a unique identifier assigned to a product and is generally attached to the product as a barcode. A JAN (EAU) code is represented by 8 or 13 digits. A PLU (Price Look Up) code is generally represented by 6 to 8 digits. A user can register, update, and delete product information in the product information DB 300 via the input unit 118. For example, when a selling price is changed, the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 is updated to display the changed selling price. Regarding the selling price, in addition to the product information DB 300, sale information in the sales plan master is also referenced. When multiple sales plans are set for the same product, the lowest price is displayed preferentially on the electronic shelf label 140. For example, a special sale of the month may be further enhanced by specifying a day of the week. Therefore, the product information DB 300 is usually given the lowest priority when referenced. The items included in the product information DB 300 are not limited to these, and may include other items.

[0033] 4 is a functional block diagram of the transceiver according to the first embodiment. The transceiver 120 includes a processing unit 121, a storage unit 126, a communication interface unit 127, and an input / output unit 128.

[0034] The memory unit 126 is implemented by, for example, a ROM, a RAM, and a storage memory. The memory unit 126 temporarily or permanently stores programs (instructions) and parameters for the operation of the processing unit 121, as well as various data (for example, an electronic shelf label information database). The programs include one or more instructions for the operation of the processing unit 121.

[0035] The communication interface unit 127 is implemented by a network adapter and / or a network interface card, etc. The communication interface unit 127 receives signals from a network and transmits signals to the network. For example, the communication interface unit 127 communicates with the management device 110 and with the electronic shelf label 140 via a wired or wireless network (e.g., a LAN (Local Area Network)).

[0036] The processing unit 121 is realized by executing a program stored in the storage unit 126. The processing unit 121 includes an electronic shelf label identification unit 122 and an update count management unit 123. Note that the processing unit 121 may further include other components in addition to these components. In other words, the processing unit 121 may also perform operations other than those of these components.

[0037] The electronic shelf label identification unit 122 identifies the electronic shelf label 140 that is the destination of the product information and associated with the product information received from the management device 110. The electronic shelf label 140 can be identified by referring to an electronic shelf label information database, which will be described later.

[0038] The update count management unit 123 manages the number of updates for the electronic shelf label 140. When product information is received from the management device 110, the update count management unit 123 refers to an electronic shelf label information database (described later) and updates the number of updates for the electronic shelf label 140 associated with the product information. Note that, as will be described in detail later, the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 can be updated due to changes in selling price, sale information, and the like.

[0039] 5 shows an example of an electronic shelf label information database according to the first embodiment. An electronic shelf label information database (DB) 500 is stored in the storage unit 126 and stores electronic shelf label information.

[0040] The electronic shelf label information DB 500 may include shelf label identifiers, JAN / PLU codes (product identifiers), and update counts. The shelf label identifiers are unique identifiers assigned to each of the electronic shelf labels 140a, 140b, and 140c. In the electronic shelf label information DB 500, shelf label identifiers are associated with JAN / PLU codes (product identifiers). This correspondence allows the electronic shelf label identification unit 122 to identify the electronic shelf label 140 to which product information is to be sent. As will be described later, multiple JAN / PLU codes (product identifiers) may be associated with one shelf label identifier. In other words, the electronic shelf label 140 can display product information for multiple products. The update count indicates the number of times the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 has been updated. The update count is managed by the update count management unit 123, and is updated by the update count management unit 123 whenever the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 is updated due to a price change or other reason. The update count determination unit 112 of the management device 110 can perform processing by acquiring the update count stored in the electronic shelf label information DB 500. Note that the items included in the electronic shelf label information DB 500 are not limited to these, and other items may be included.

[0041] 6 shows an example of a display of an electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. The electronic shelf label 140 includes a control unit 141, a battery 142, a storage unit 146, a communication interface unit 147, and a display unit 148.

[0042] The memory unit 146 stores product information received from the transceiver 120 via the communication interface unit 147. The communication interface unit 147 may be a small antenna. The control unit 141 displays the product information stored in the memory unit 146 on the display unit 148. The display unit 148 may be an electronic paper display, a small liquid crystal display, or the like. The display unit 148 can display the product information as a bitmap image in multiple colors. The type and display format of the electronic shelf label 140 are set in advance. For example, the user can specify the font and font size for the price display area within the display format. In addition, the product name display area, standard display area, promotional display area, and the like are also set in advance, and the user can specify the illustrations and marks to be displayed. The electronic shelf label 140 is powered by a battery 142. The more frequently the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 is updated, the faster the battery 142 is consumed, and the electronic shelf label 140 will need to be replaced. The electronic shelf label 140 may include a tag (not shown) (for example, an RF tag, an IC tag, or an NFC tag) for identifying the electronic shelf label 140. The mobile terminal 150 can obtain the identification information of the electronic shelf label 140 by reading the tag.

[0043] 7 shows display examples of electronic shelf labels according to the first embodiment. Display example 700 in FIG. 7(a) and display example 710 in FIG. 7(b) are each examples in which product information for one product is displayed on one electronic shelf label. Display example 700 includes a product name 701, a barcode 702 indicating a product identifier, additional information 703, a selling price 704, and a barcode 705 indicating the shelf label identifier. Display example 710 similarly includes a product name 711, a barcode 712 indicating a product identifier, additional information 713, a selling price 714, and a barcode 715 indicating the shelf label identifier.

[0044] In the display example 700 of Fig. 7(a), "recommended items" and the like are displayed as additional information 703, but this is not limiting. Information such as bundle sales in which a discount is given when a certain number of products are purchased, set match sales in which a discount is given when specific products are combined, mix match sales in which a discount is given when any specific products are combined, and three prices for one item may also be displayed as additional information 703. In the display example 710 of Fig. 7(b), information such as the origin of the product is displayed as additional information 713. In this way, electronic shelf labels can display a variety of information as additional information.

[0045] 8 shows another example of the display of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. In the example display 800, one electronic shelf label displays product information 801, 802, 803, and 804 for four products. By displaying in this manner, one electronic shelf label can display the product information for four products that are adjacent to each other vertically and horizontally on the product shelf.

[0046] 9 is a functional block diagram of a mobile terminal according to the first embodiment. The mobile terminal 150 includes a processing unit 151, a storage unit 156, a scanner unit 157, an input unit 158, and a communication interface unit 159. The mobile terminal 150 is also referred to as a handheld terminal. A user can replace the electronic shelf label 140 with a paper price card by having the mobile terminal 150 read the product identifier and shelf label identifier displayed on the electronic shelf label 140. Alternatively, the user can replace the price card with the electronic shelf label 140 by having the mobile terminal 150 read the contents displayed on the price card.

[0047] The memory unit 156 is implemented by, for example, a ROM, a RAM, a storage memory, etc. The memory unit 156 temporarily or permanently stores programs (instructions) and parameters for the operation of the processing unit 151, as well as various data. The programs include one or more instructions for the operation of the processing unit 151.

[0048] The scanner unit 157 can read barcodes indicating product identifiers or shelf label identifiers, that is, the mobile terminal 150 may be a barcode reader.

[0049] The input unit 158 may be, for example, a numeric keypad for inputting numbers. The user can press the numeric keypad to input the product identifier of a product that does not have a barcode. Alternatively, the input unit 158 may be configured to allow input of a shelf label identifier.

[0050] The communication interface unit 159 receives signals from the network and transmits signals to the network. For example, the communication interface unit 159 communicates with the management device 110 via the transceiver 130.

[0051] The processing unit 151 is realized by executing a program stored in the storage unit 156. The processing unit 151 includes a control unit 152, an imaging unit 153, and an image processing unit 154. The processing unit 151 may further include other components in addition to these components. That is, the processing unit 151 may perform operations other than those of these components.

[0052] The control unit 152 transmits the product identifier or shelf label identifier read by the scanner unit 157 and the product identifier or shelf label identifier input to the input unit 158 to the management device 110.

[0053] The imaging unit 153 captures an image of the electronic shelf label 140 or a price card, and stores the image data in the storage unit 156 .

[0054] The image processing unit 154 analyzes the image captured by the imaging unit 153. For example, when switching from the electronic shelf label 140 to a price card, the image processing unit 154 can analyze the image of the printed price card (printed matter) to extract product name and price information, and determine whether the information matches the content displayed on the electronic shelf label 140 (i.e., product information data stored in the product information DB 300). In other words, the image processing unit 154 can function as a determination unit. The image processing unit 154 may be provided in the management device 110.

[0055] Alternatively, by storing image data captured by the imaging unit 153 in the storage unit 156, the data can be used to record the work content of the user or to manage the work results.

[0056] 10 is a perspective view of the portable device according to the first embodiment. A user can move around the store with the portable device 1000 to attach and remove electronic shelf labels and print price cards and POP advertisements.

[0057] The portable device 1000 holds the mobile terminal 150 so that it can be removed by the user. The electronic shelf label box for attachment 1001 stores electronic shelf labels that the user attaches to product shelves. The printing device 160 prints price cards (e.g., paper price tags) to be attached to product shelves on a roll of paper 161. When the user uses the mobile terminal 150 to read or input a product identifier, the printing device 160 can print a price card corresponding to the product identifier. The printing device 160 can also print spotters and other promotional materials to be attached to product shelves. The price cards and spotters printed by the printing device 160 are discharged into a tray 1004. The stock box 1002 stores spare toner cartridges and roll paper for the printing device 160. The collected electronic shelf label box 1003 stores electronic shelf labels that have been collected by the user. For example, these are electronic shelf labels that have been switched to price cards or electronic shelf labels with dead batteries. The portable device 1000 includes casters 162 that are rotatably mounted thereon.

[0058] The printing device 160 is a portable printer that receives and prints price cards and spotters from the mobile terminal 150. On the other hand, the mobile terminal 150 can also send printing instructions for POPs, which require a larger print size, to the management device 110, causing a printing device installed in a store office or the like to print the POP. For either type of printing instruction, the management device 110 can determine the destination printing device based on the print format and type of paper medium. In this way, the destination of the printing instruction may be controlled by the management device 110 or the mobile terminal 150.

[0059] <2.2. Example of operation> FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the shelf label management system according to the first embodiment.

[0060] First, in S101, the mobile terminal 150 acquires the shelf label identifier of the target electronic shelf label 140. Specifically, the user causes the mobile terminal 150 to read the barcode (shelf label identifier) attached to the target electronic shelf label 140. The acquired shelf label identifier is transmitted to the management device 110.

[0061] Next, in S102, the mobile terminal 150 acquires the product identifier displayed on the target electronic shelf label 140. Specifically, the user causes the mobile terminal 150 to read the barcode (product identifier) of the product displayed on the target electronic shelf label 140. The acquired product identifier is transmitted to the management device 110.

[0062] Next, in S103, the update count determination unit 112 of the management device 110 Electronic shelf label information database (DB) 500 The update count of the target electronic shelf label 140 is obtained from the

[0063] Next, in S104, the update count determination unit 112 determines whether the acquired update count is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold. If it is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold, the process proceeds to S105; if not, the process ends. If the update count is greater than the predetermined threshold, the electronic shelf label will continue to be used, and the process ends immediately.

[0064] In S105, the print instruction unit 113 acquires, from the product information DB 300, product information of the product corresponding to the product identifier acquired in S102, and instructs the printing device 160 to print the acquired product information.

[0065] Next, in S106, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 updates the display content of the target electronic shelf label. For example, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 erases and initializes the display content of the target electronic shelf label. Alternatively, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 may update the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 to product information of the product to be displayed next. Furthermore, if the electronic shelf label 140 is a rental device, the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 may be updated to indicate that the item is being returned, as well as the return destination and date.

[0066] The user attaches the printed price cards to the product shelves and collects the updated electronic shelf labels. In this way, the electronic shelf label management system according to this embodiment switches electronic shelf labels that have been updated a predetermined number of times or less to price cards, thereby enabling the effective use of electronic shelf labels.

[0067] Note that when multiple products are displayed on one electronic shelf label, that is, when multiple product identifiers are associated with one electronic shelf label, the print instruction unit 113 may not issue a print instruction, and the electronic shelf label update unit 114 may not perform an update. Alternatively, when multiple product identifiers are associated with one electronic shelf label, if at least one of the multiple products identified by the multiple product identifiers meets a predetermined condition, the print instruction unit 113 may not issue a print instruction, and the electronic shelf label update unit 114 may not perform an update. The predetermined condition may be, for example, at least one of the following: the product is a specific product (e.g., a product that is not subject to change from an electronic shelf label to a price card) and the number of updates of the electronic shelf label for that product is greater than a predetermined value. In this embodiment, in such a case, switching from electronic shelf labels to price cards may not be performed. Alternatively, the switch from electronic shelf labels to price cards may be determined and performed for each product displayed horizontally or vertically among the multiple displayed products.

[0068] When switching from paper to electronic shelf labels, the display content of the electronic shelf labels is already set in the cloud service or the host management device. This includes the product (product code, product identifier), display format, selling price, additional information to display, and LED indicator lighting / flashing and lighting color. The LED indicators are described below. If a product display schedule is set, specifically, during store opening processing on the day when the display content changes (e.g., from a sale price to a regular price), the display content is updated for only the electronic shelf labels whose display content will change that day or the following day, or for all electronic shelf labels. (Since communication tests and location checks are performed, if a communication error occurs, location or malfunction must be confirmed.) In this case, an initialization command is sent, followed by a display content instruction command. (If no update is required, the same display content is repeatedly instructed; if the display content is to be updated, a new display content instruction is sent.) Since electronic shelf labels with updated display content, such as updated selling prices, are visually inspected by store staff before opening, it is possible to improve work efficiency by using color-coded LED indicators that light or flash so that the updated content can be clearly identified at a glance. Based on the information from the electronic shelf labels that have been checked, a command to stop the flashing or lighting of the LED lamp can be sent to only the corresponding electronic shelf labels, completing the check before opening the store. To stop the check, the host management device simultaneously sends a stop command to the repeaters to the electronic shelf labels (addressed to the electronic shelf label identifier) whose display content is to be updated. Alternatively, a mobile device such as a handheld terminal can scan (or read in the case of NFC) the identifier of the checked electronic shelf label and send it to the host management device in real time or via batch processing, where it can be compared with the identifier of the electronic shelf label that has been updated in the host management device to check for forgotten checks.

[0069] When a product code (product identifier) is acquired using a mobile terminal such as a handheld terminal, the type and display format of the electronic shelf label linked to that product code are displayed on the screen, allowing store staff to check. At this time, if the format is displayable on that type of electronic shelf label, it can be changed on the spot, and even if the required additional information has not been set, it may be possible to input the information in the same way as setting it on a higher-level management device. However, restrictions can be placed on preventing easy changes using authority management, etc.

[0070] Naturally, the setting of the product code for one product and the display format for multiple products is controlled so that it cannot be set in the settings on the upper management device, so there is little risk of mistakes being made during on-site work (it will be reported). However, when making changes based on authority, items that cannot be set mutually on the mobile terminal side are controlled so that they cannot be selected or entered.

[0071] Furthermore, when setting up multiple products, a display format that can display multiple products can be selected for spare electronic shelf tags on-site, and restrictions can be placed on the simultaneous display of different categories, departments, classifications, etc. For example, it is possible to restrict the simultaneous display of meat and dairy products on the same electronic shelf tag. As another pattern, by referencing the sales planning master (schedule), etc., it is also possible to display multiple products from different categories at the same time in cases such as set matches. Of course, products can also be forcibly selected using authorization.

[0072] <2.3. Modifications> Modifications of this embodiment will be described below. The modifications described below may be combined with the above embodiment and other modifications as appropriate.

[0073] (1) First Modification 12 shows yet another display example of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. Display example 1200 includes a product name 1201, a barcode 1202 indicating a product identifier, additional information 1203, a selling price 1204, and a barcode 1205 indicating a shelf label identifier, as well as a star-shaped mark 1206 and date information 1207. Mark 1206 is a replacement guide mark indicating that the electronic shelf label has been updated less than or equal to a predetermined threshold. Date information 1207 indicates the date on which mark 1206 was displayed. Note that it is also possible to display only either mark 1206 or date information 1207. The shape of mark 1206 is not limited to a star shape and may be another shape.

[0074] In this modification, the update count determination unit 112 of the management device 110 acquires the update count of each electronic shelf label from the electronic shelf label information database (DB) 500 at a predetermined timing (for example, once a month). Next, the update count determination unit 112 compares the acquired update count with a predetermined threshold, and updates the display of electronic shelf labels whose update count is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold so that the mark 1206 is displayed. This allows the user to easily identify the electronic shelf labels to be switched to price cards.

[0075] Note that the acquired number of updates may be displayed on the electronic shelf label instead of the mark 1206. In this case, the user may decide whether to switch from electronic shelf labels to price cards based on the number of updates displayed on the electronic shelf label. The date information 1207 may indicate the date on which the number of updates was displayed. Furthermore, the date information 1207 may indicate the scheduled date of completion of the work.

[0076] Furthermore, when a special sale or the like ends and the display content of the electronic shelf label is updated, the number of updates of the electronic shelf label can be determined, and if the number of updates is low, mark 1206 can be displayed to encourage switching from the electronic shelf label to a price card. This is not limited to special sales, and can also be implemented in the same way when bundles, mix-and-matches, and set-matches are displayed as additional information.

[0077] (2) Second Modification 13 shows another example of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. An electronic shelf label 1300 according to this modification includes an LED lamp 1301. The LED lamp 1301 can change the emitted color in response to an instruction from the management device 1101, and can light up in different emitted colors.

[0078] The LED lamp 1301 can indicate the work instruction category to the store clerk. For example, the LED lamp 1301 is effective when a store clerk checks electronic shelf labels whose display content has been updated with the next day's information overnight. Before opening, store clerks visually inspect electronic shelf labels for products whose prices have changed using the day's flyers and update information lists. By turning on the LED lamp 1301 of the electronic shelf label whose price has changed, the store clerk can easily find the electronic shelf label. Furthermore, when the display format is changed due to a sale, specifically when a sale mark or display division is used to display multiple products, and when information such as the product name and unit price of each product is displayed, as well as bundle (bulk purchase), mix-and-match, set-match, and three-for-one, the store clerk must check additional information in addition to the price. In such cases, if the LED lamp 1301 is color-coded for electronic shelf labels that only check the price and electronic shelf labels that check both the price and additional information, multiple store clerks can easily share tasks and efficiently perform the check. Furthermore, if the LED lamps 1301 of the electronic shelf labels that are the targets of the work of switching between electronic shelf labels and price cards are lit in different colors, it becomes easier to find the electronic shelf label that is the target of the work. Also, the store clerk can understand the work content just by checking the light color of the LED lamps 1301. Furthermore, the LED lamps 1301 may be lit separately for each person in charge (store clerk).

[0079] <<3. Second Embodiment>> Next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 14. The first embodiment described above is a specific embodiment, but the second embodiment is a more generalized embodiment.

[0080] <3.1. System Configuration> 14 shows an example of the schematic configuration of a shelf label management system according to the second embodiment. The shelf label management system 1400 includes a management device 1401, a mobile terminal 1421, a printing device 1423, and an electronic shelf label 1424. The management device 1401 also includes a print instruction unit 1412 and an electronic shelf label update unit 1413.

[0081] The management device 1401 may be implemented with one or more processors, memory (eg, non-volatile memory and / or volatile memory) and / or a hard disk.

[0082] <3.2. Example of operation> An example of the operation of the shelf label management system 1400 according to the second embodiment will be described. According to the second embodiment, the mobile terminal 1421 (first acquisition means) acquires the shelf label identifier of the electronic shelf label and transmits it to the management device 1401. The mobile terminal 1421 (second acquisition means) also acquires a product identifier and transmits it to the management device 1401. The management device 1401 (print instruction unit 1412) instructs the printing device 1423 to print product information corresponding to the product identifier, depending on the number of updates of the electronic shelf label corresponding to the acquired shelf label identifier. Furthermore, the management device 1401 (electronic shelf label update unit 1413) updates the display content of the electronic shelf label depending on the number of updates.

[0083] Relationship to the first embodiment As an example, the management device 1401, mobile terminal 1421, printing device 1423, and electronic shelf label 1424 included in the shelf label management system 1400 according to the second embodiment may perform the operations of the management device 110, mobile terminal 150, printing device 160, and electronic shelf label 140, respectively, of the shelf label management system 100 according to the first embodiment. In this case, the description of the first embodiment also applies to the second embodiment. Note that the second embodiment is not limited to these examples.

[0084] The second embodiment has been described above. According to the second embodiment, for example, electronic shelf labels can be used effectively.

[0085] <<4. Other Embodiments>> Although the embodiments have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that these embodiments are merely examples and that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

[0086] For example, the steps in the processes described herein do not necessarily have to be performed chronologically in the order described. For example, the steps in the processes may be performed in a different order than described or may be performed in parallel. Also, some of the steps in the processes may be eliminated, and additional steps may be added to the processes.

[0087] Also, a method including the processing of the components described in this specification (for example, the information acquisition unit, the determination unit, and / or the output unit) may be provided, and a program for causing a processor (CPU) to execute the processing of the above components may be provided. Also, a non-transitory computer-readable medium on which the program is recorded may be provided. Naturally, such devices, modules, methods, programs, and non-transitory computer-readable mediums are also included in the present invention.

[0088] <<5. Summary of the embodiment>> [Technical field] The present invention relates to a shelf label management system and method for managing shelf labels used to display products. [Background technology] In recent years, the use of electronic shelf labels has been increasing in stores such as supermarkets, drug stores, and electronics retailers. Electronic shelf labels are equipped with small displays that can display product information such as prices, and can receive and display the product information from a management device (see, for example, Patent Document 1). By using such electronic shelf labels, product displays can be easily changed. [Prior art document] [Patent documents] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-024757 A [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be solved by the invention] However, it would be cost prohibitive to install electronic shelf labels on all products, so there is a need for technology that can effectively utilize the limited number of electronic shelf labels. The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to provide a shelf label management system and method that enables effective use of electronic shelf labels. [Means for solving the problem] (1) One aspect of this embodiment is a system including: a first acquisition unit that acquires a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label; The shelf label management system includes a second acquisition means that acquires a product identifier, a print instruction means that instructs printing of product information corresponding to the product identifier according to the number of updates to the display content of the electronic shelf label corresponding to the shelf label identifier, and an update means that updates the display content of the electronic shelf label according to the number of updates. According to the above configuration, the electronic shelf labels can be used effectively. (2) One aspect of this embodiment is the shelf label management system described in (1), characterized in that when the number of updates of the electronic shelf label is equal to or less than a predetermined value, the print instruction means issues an instruction to print, and the update means updates the display content. According to the above configuration, when the number of updates of the electronic shelf label is equal to or less than a predetermined value, price cards are printed and the electronic shelf label is updated, so that electronic shelf labels can be switched to price cards for products for which there is little need to use electronic shelf labels. (3) One aspect of this embodiment is the shelf label management system described in (1) or (2), characterized in that when multiple product identifiers are associated with the electronic shelf label, the print instruction means does not instruct the printing and the update means does not update the display content. According to the above configuration, it is possible to prevent electronic shelf labels that display multiple products from being switched to price cards. (4) One aspect of this embodiment is a shelf label management system as described in (1) or (2), characterized in that when a plurality of product identifiers are associated with the electronic shelf label, if at least one product among a plurality of products identified by the plurality of product identifiers satisfies a predetermined condition, the print instruction means does not issue the print instruction, and the update means does not update the display content. According to the above configuration, if any of the multiple products displayed on the electronic shelf label is not eligible for switching to a price card, it is possible to prevent switching to a price card. (5) One aspect of this embodiment is the shelf label management system described in (4), characterized in that the predetermined condition includes at least one of the following: the product is a specific product; and the number of updates of the electronic shelf label for the product is greater than a predetermined value. According to the above configuration, similarly to (4), if any of the multiple products displayed on the electronic shelf label is not eligible for conversion to a price card, conversion to a price card can be prevented. (6) One aspect of this embodiment is the shelf label management system described in any one of (1) to (5), characterized in that the update means initializes the display content of the electronic shelf label or updates it to product information of the next product to be displayed. According to the above configuration, the update process for the electronic shelf label to be switched can be carried out efficiently. (7) One aspect of this embodiment is a shelf label management system described in any one of (1) to (6), characterized in that it further comprises an imaging means for imaging a printed material on which the product information is printed. According to the above configuration, the operation of switching to a price card can be recorded. (8) One aspect of this embodiment is the shelf label management system described in (7), characterized in that it further comprises a determination means for analyzing an image captured by the imaging means and determining whether it matches the content displayed on the electronic shelf label. According to the above configuration, it is possible to check whether the operation of switching to a price card has been performed correctly. (9) One aspect of this embodiment is a method including a first acquisition step of acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label, a second acquisition step of acquiring a product identifier, a print instruction step of instructing printing of product information corresponding to the product identifier in accordance with the number of updates to the display content of the electronic shelf label corresponding to the shelf label identifier, and an update step of updating the display content of the electronic shelf label in accordance with the number of updates. According to the above configuration, as in (1), the electronic shelf labels can be used effectively. [Explanation of symbols]

[0089] 100 Shelf Label Management System 110 Management device 120, 130 Transmitter / Receiver 140a, 140b, 140c electronic shelf label 150 mobile devices 160 Printing device

Claims

1. A system comprising: a management device; and an electronic shelf label information database; The management device a first receiving means for acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label; a second receiving means for acquiring a product identifier; acquires the update count of the target electronic shelf label identified from the shelf label identifier acquired by the first receiving means and the product identifier acquired by the second receiving means from the electronic shelf label information database that stores the shelf label identifier in association with the update count; an update count determination means for determining whether the acquired update count is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold; and a print instruction means for instructing printing of a price tag according to product information of the product corresponding to the product identifier acquired by the second receiving means when the update count determination means determines that the acquired update count is equal to or less than a threshold value. Shelf label management system.

2. an electronic shelf label updating means that initializes the display content of a target electronic shelf label when the update count determining means determines that the acquired update count is equal to or less than a threshold value; The shelf label management system according to claim 1 , comprising:

3. When a plurality of products are displayed on the electronic shelf label corresponding to the shelf label identifier acquired by the first receiving means, the print instruction means does not issue a print instruction. The shelf label management system according to claim 1 .

4. When a plurality of products are displayed on the electronic shelf label corresponding to the shelf label identifier acquired by the first receiving means, the electronic shelf label update means does not initialize the display content. The shelf label management system according to claim 2 .

5. a first receiving means for acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label; a second receiving means for acquiring a product identifier; acquires the update count of the target electronic shelf label from an electronic shelf label information database that stores the shelf label identifier in association with the update count, based on the shelf label identifier acquired by the first receiving means and the product identifier acquired by the second receiving means; an update count determination means for determining whether the acquired update count is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value; a print instruction means for instructing printing of a price tag according to product information of the product corresponding to the product identifier acquired by the second receiving means when the update count determination means determines that the acquired update count is equal to or less than a threshold value; A management device comprising:

6. A program for causing a computer to function as a shelf label management system, The computer a first receiving means for acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label; a second receiving means for acquiring a product identifier; an update count determination means for obtaining the update count of the target electronic shelf label from an electronic shelf label information database that stores the update count in association with the shelf label identifier obtained by the first receiving means and the product identifier obtained by the second receiving means, and determining whether the obtained update count is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold; Functioning as a A program for functioning as a print instruction means that, when the update count determination means determines that the acquired update count is below a threshold value, instructs the second receiving means to print a price card according to the product information of the product corresponding to the product identifier acquired by the second receiving means.

7. A program for causing a computer to function as a management device in a shelf label management system, The computer a first receiving means for acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label; a second receiving means for acquiring a product identifier; an update count determination means for obtaining the update count of the target electronic shelf label from an electronic shelf label information database that stores the shelf label identifier in association with the update count based on the shelf label identifier obtained by the first receiving means and the product identifier obtained by the second receiving means, and determining whether the obtained update count is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold; Functioning as a A program for functioning as a print instruction means that, when the update count determination means determines that the acquired update count is below a threshold value, instructs the second receiving means to print a price card according to the product information of the product corresponding to the product identifier acquired by the second receiving means.

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