Store management device, store management method, and program

Abstract

A store management device (100) is provided with: a determination unit (102) that determines whether a predetermined criterion is satisfied in a store; a mode switching unit (104) that switches, using the result of the determination by the determination unit (102), the operation mode of the store between an attended mode in which at least a store clerk is on duty and an unattended mode in which no store clerk is on duty; and a setting unit (106) that, when the mode switching unit (104) switches the operation mode, switches the condition for entry into the store in accordance with the switched operation mode. The predetermined criterion is that no customer is present in the vicinity of the entrance of the store at a reference time.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a store system, a store management device, a store management method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Recently, labor shortages in retail stores and other stores have become serious, making labor-saving an issue. Against this backdrop, unmanned stores are increasingly operating. An example of an unmanned store system is described in Patent Document 1. In this unmanned store system, users enter a sales area separated by vending devices that sell products to users who visit the unmanned store through a gate, purchase products through the vending device, and then pass through the gate to exit the sales area. The products sold by the vending devices are stored in an automated warehouse adjacent to the sales area. The sales area and the automated warehouse are separated by a partition wall so that users who visit the unmanned store cannot enter the automated warehouse. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-121011 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The unmanned store systems described in the above-mentioned patent documents are intended to provide security measures in unmanned stores and to improve the efficiency of vending machines. However, there are stores that are normally staffed and operate unmanned only during specific hours, such as late at night. In such stores, the procedure for switching operation modes is complicated and places a heavy burden on store staff.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its object is to reduce the burden on store staff when switching between different operation modes in a store. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, each aspect of the present invention employs the following configuration.

[0007] The first aspect relates to a store management device. A store management device according to a first aspect of the present invention comprises: a determination means in the store for determining whether a predetermined standard is met; a mode switching means for switching the store's operation mode between a manned mode in which at least a store clerk is present and an unmanned mode in which no store clerk is present, using the determination result by the determination means; and a setting means for changing the store entry conditions in accordance with the changed operation mode when the mode changing means changes the operation mode, The predetermined criterion is that there is no customer near the entrance or exit of the store when the reference time arrives.

[0008] A second aspect relates to a store management method implemented by at least one computer. A store management method according to a second aspect includes: The store management device The store determines whether the product meets the specified criteria, Using the judgment results, The aforementioned Switching the store's operation mode between a staffed mode in which at least a staff member is present and an unstaffed mode in which the staff member is not present; When the operation mode is switched, a condition for entering the store is switched in accordance with the operation mode after the switch, The predetermined criterion is that there is no customer near the entrance or exit of the store when the reference time arrives.

[0009] Another aspect of the present invention may be a program that causes at least one computer to execute the method of the second aspect, or a computer-readable recording medium on which such a program is recorded. This recording medium includes a non-transitory tangible medium. The computer program includes computer program code that, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to implement the store management method on a store management device.

[0010] Any combination of the above components, and any transformation of the present invention into a method, device, system, recording medium, computer program, etc., are also valid aspects of the present invention.

[0011] Furthermore, the various components of the present invention do not necessarily have to be independent entities, but may be formed as a single member by multiple components, one component may be formed from multiple components, one component may be part of another component, or part of one component may overlap with part of another component, etc.

[0012] Furthermore, although the method and computer program of the present invention describe a number of steps in a sequential order, the order in which the steps are described does not limit the order in which the steps are executed. Therefore, when implementing the method and computer program of the present invention, the order of the steps can be changed as long as it does not cause any problems in terms of the content.

[0013] Furthermore, the multiple steps of the method and computer program of the present invention are not limited to being executed at different times, and therefore, a step may occur while another step is being executed, or the execution timing of a step may partially or completely overlap with the execution timing of another step, etc. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to the above aspects, the burden on store staff when switching between different operation modes in a store can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of a store system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the logical configuration of a store management device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a computer that realizes the store management device shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the store management device of the present embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of the logical configuration of a store management device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the setting contents of each device for each mode. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram showing another example of the logical configuration of the store management device of the present embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram showing another example of the logical configuration of the store management device of the present embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram showing yet another example of the logical configuration of the store management device of the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In all the drawings, like components are designated by like reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0017] In the embodiments, "acquisition" includes at least one of the following: a device going to retrieve data or information stored in another device or storage medium (active acquisition), and inputting data or information output from another device into the device (passive acquisition). Examples of active acquisition include making a request or inquiry to another device and receiving a reply, and accessing and reading information from another device or storage medium. An example of passive acquisition is receiving information that is distributed (or transmitted, pushed, etc.). Furthermore, "acquisition" may also mean selecting and acquiring data or information from received data or information, or selecting and receiving distributed data or information.

[0018] (First embodiment) <System Overview> 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of a store system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The store system 1 includes a store management device 100 that manages a store 10, and a management server 200 that manages the store management device 100 of at least one store 10. The management server 200 is connected to the store management device 100 of at least one store 10 via a communication network 3. The store system 1 may also include an image recognition device 210 that performs image authentication processing on images captured by a camera 20 installed in the store 10, and an authentication device 220 that performs authentication processing on store users who have registered in advance.

[0019] In this embodiment, users (also referred to as customers) of the store 10 register in advance as members to use the store 10. Upon registering as a member, a member card is issued on which member information including member identification information is recorded. This member card may have a two-dimensional code printed on it on which the member information is recorded, or may be a magnetic stripe card, an IC (Integrated Circuit) card, or the like on which the member information is recorded.

[0020] In addition, a customer can use their user terminal (not shown) to log in to a members-only website using a browser, or by installing a dedicated application and logging in, a two-dimensional code (e.g., a QR (Quick Response) code (registered trademark)) containing member information can be displayed on the screen of the user terminal, which can be used in place of a membership card.

[0021] The membership card is presented to a store clerk to receive member-only services, such as points, special offers, and discounts at the store 10. Furthermore, as will be described later, the POS (Point of Sales) terminal 30 can read the membership information when registering purchased items and processing the payment, allowing for payment processing. Furthermore, in unmanned mode, the entrance / exit control terminal 90 can read the membership information on the membership card when entering or leaving the store 10, allowing the automatic door 70 to open and close.

[0022] In this embodiment, a configuration will be described in which one store 10 is managed using one store management device 100 for each store 10, and the management of the store management devices 100 of multiple stores 10 is consolidated by a management server 200.

[0023] The store 10 is, for example, a retail store such as a convenience store, supermarket, drug store, or kiosk. The store 10 is not limited to selling products, but may also be a store that sells various services, such as a video rental store that rents various media such as books, magazines, music (including audio), or video, or a dry cleaning store.

[0024] The store 10 has at least two different operation modes: a manned mode in which at least a store clerk is always present, and an unmanned mode in which no store clerk is always present, and the operation mode switches depending on the time of day, for example. However, in the unmanned mode, a store clerk may be present in the store 10. The unmanned mode may include, for example, a labor-saving business mode in which a small number of store clerks are present, and a one-person operation mode in which only one store clerk is present. In the unmanned mode, for example, customers can register and order products by themselves. settlementIt is assumed that the processing is performed by a POS (Point Of Sales) terminal 30. The operation mode may include three or more modes.

[0025] The store 10 is equipped with at least one of a self-checkout terminal that customers operate to register products and perform checkout procedures themselves, and a POS terminal 30 that can be switched between a mode operated by a store clerk and a mode operated by a customer. The mode of the POS terminal 30 may be set according to information indicating the store's operation mode. However, the store 10 may also have a POS terminal 30 that can be operated only by a store clerk.

[0026] The POS terminal 30 includes, for example, a touch panel display, a scanner for reading barcodes, and a printer for printing out receipts and the like.

[0027] A customer can perform product registration processing and payment processing by operating the POS terminal 30. For example, the customer displays a two-dimensional barcode indicating the member identification information of the customer who has previously registered on their user terminal. The customer then has the POS terminal 30 acquire the member identification information by reading this two-dimensional barcode with a scanner, thereby identifying the customer. After that, the customer then has the scanner read the product barcode of the product to be purchased, thereby performing the registration processing of the purchased product.

[0028] The settlement process may be performed using a payment method previously designated by the customer identified by the POS terminal 30 using their member identification information. For example, card payment, electronic money payment, etc. may be designated. In the case of card payment, the customer may register their card number in advance. Furthermore, during the settlement process, an operation screen may be displayed on the display of the POS terminal 30, requesting the customer to enter personal identification information (e.g., password, PIN code, date of birth, etc.) for personal authentication, as necessary, and the customer may enter the information by operating the touch panel of the POS terminal 30.

[0029] At least one camera 20 is installed in the store 10. The camera 20 may be a so-called surveillance camera. The camera 20 has an imaging element such as a lens and a charge-coupled device (CCD) image sensor, and may be a network camera such as an Internet Protocol (IP) camera. The network camera may have a local area network (LAN) communication function and be connected to the store management device 100 via a relay device (not shown) such as a router in the communication network. The camera 20 may be a camera capable of capturing images in 360 degrees all around, installed on the ceiling of the store 10 for security purposes. As an example, the camera 20 is a camera equipped with a fisheye lens. The camera 20 may be equipped with a mechanism for controlling the orientation of the camera body and lens, zooming, focusing, etc., in accordance with the movements of people in the store.

[0030] The images generated by the camera 20 may be moving images captured in real time, frame images captured at predetermined intervals, or still images. Images transmitted to the store management device 100 may be transmitted directly from the camera 20 to the store management device 100, or may be images delayed by a predetermined time rather than being transmitted directly from the camera 20. Images captured by the camera 20 may be temporarily stored in another storage device (not shown), and then read out by the store management device 100 from the storage device sequentially or at predetermined intervals.

[0031] The store 10 may be provided with a display 40 such as signage. The display 40 displays images such as promotional content and content including notification information such as precautions and notices for customers. The images are at least either still images or moving images. The store 10 may also be provided with a speaker 42 that outputs audio. The speaker 42 can output the audio of the images displayed on the display 40, background music (BGM), in-store announcements, and the like.

[0032] A fryer 50 for cooking fried foods may be installed in the store 10. The store 10 may also have display shelves 60 (or gondolas, refrigerators, etc.) for displaying products such as alcoholic beverages that are available for sale at limited times, which are installed separately from display shelves (not shown) for other products.

[0033] An automatic door 70 that can be opened and closed automatically is installed at the entrance and exit of the store 10. The automatic door 70 is equipped with a motion sensor 80 at least in one of the following locations: the gate (mounted without a gate, mounted below the gate, mounted inside the gate, etc.), the ceiling near the automatic door 70, and / or a high location. The motion sensor 80 is preferably installed both inside and outside the store 10. The motion sensor 80 detects the presence of a person using, for example, a light source reflection method such as infrared light, or a microwave method. The type, installation location, and number of motion sensors 80 are not limited to these. For example, the motion sensor 80 may be a transmission-type infrared sensor installed at the feet of a person passing through the automatic door 70, or a sensor that detects the movement of a person's weight using a piezoelectric element installed on the floor of the passageway passing through the automatic door 70. Multiple motion sensors 80 may be combined.

[0034] The automatic door 70 controls the opening and closing of the door in conjunction with a human presence sensor 80. When the human presence sensor 80 detects the presence of a person, the door automatically opens, and after the person passes, the door automatically closes after a predetermined time has passed.

[0035] Furthermore, the automatic door 70 may be provided with a touch center 72, and the door can also be opened by touching the touch center 72. After that, once it is detected that no one is present near the entrance, the door will automatically close.

[0036] An entry / exit control terminal 90 is provided near the automatic door 70. The entry / exit control terminal 90 may be provided outside the store 10, or both inside and outside. The entry / exit control terminal 90 is a device for authenticating that a customer is a member of the store 10 when the customer enters or leaves the store in unmanned mode, and for managing customers entering and leaving the store 10. However, non-member customers may also be allowed to enter and leave the store 10 by capturing an image of their face with the camera 20. This authentication or image capture is an example of a condition for entering the store in unmanned mode. Details will be described later. Furthermore, if the entry / exit control terminal 90 is provided only outside the store 10, authentication or image capture may be performed when a customer enters the store in unmanned mode, and the customer may be able to leave freely without authentication or image capture when leaving the store.

[0037] <Example of functional configuration> 2 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the logical configuration of a store management device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The store management device 100 comprises a determination unit 102, a mode switching unit 104, and a setting unit 106. The operation modes include a manned mode in which at least a store staff member is present, and an unmanned mode in which no store staff member is present.

[0038] The determination unit 102 determines whether a predetermined criterion is met in the store 10. The predetermined criterion is a criterion for determining whether or not to switch the operation mode of the store 10. In this embodiment, the criterion for determining whether or not to switch the operation mode is that the current time reaches the reference time and there are no customers near the entrance or exit of the store 10.

[0039] The reference time is the time when the manned mode switches to the unmanned mode, for example, 10:00 PM. Alternatively, it is the time when the unmanned mode switches to the manned mode, for example, 6:00 AM. The reference time may be set differently for each store, or for each season or region. Details of the method for determining whether or not a customer is present near the entrance / exit of the store 10 will be described later.

[0040] The mode switching unit 104 switches the operation mode of the store 10 between a manned mode and an unmanned mode using the determination result by the determination unit 102. When the mode switching unit 104 switches the operation mode, the setting unit 106 switches the entry conditions for the store 10 in accordance with the switched operation mode. The entry conditions will be described later. <Hardware configuration example> Fig. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a computer 1000 that implements the store management device 100 shown in Fig. 2. The computer 1000 has a bus 1010, a processor 1020, memory 1030, a storage device 1040, an input / output interface 1050, and a network interface 1060.

[0041] The bus 1010 is a data transmission path for transmitting and receiving data among the processor 1020, memory 1030, storage device 1040, input / output interface 1050, and network interface 1060. However, the method of connecting the processor 1020 and the like to each other is not limited to bus connection.

[0042] The processor 1020 is implemented by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or the like.

[0043] The memory 1030 is a main storage device realized by a RAM (Random Access Memory) or the like.

[0044] The storage device 1040 is an auxiliary storage device realized by a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), a memory card, a read-only memory (ROM), or the like. The storage device 1040 stores program modules that realize each function of the store management device 100 (e.g., the determination unit 102, the mode switching unit 104, the setting unit 106, and the control unit 120, output unit 122, and notification unit 124 described in the following embodiments). The storage device 1040 also stores various settings used by the above-mentioned functional components of the store management device 100 (e.g., predetermined standards, settings of each device and piece of equipment in the store 10, necessary conditions for mode switching, and other information). The processor 1020 loads and executes each of these program modules into the memory 1030, thereby realizing each function corresponding to the program module.

[0045] The program module may be recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium on which the program module is recorded may include a non-transitory, tangible medium usable by the computer 1000, and the program code readable by the computer 1000 (processor 1020) may be embedded in the medium.

[0046] The input / output interface 1050 is an interface for connecting the computer 1000 to various input / output devices.

[0047] The network interface 1060 is an interface for connecting the computer 1000 to a communication network 3. This communication network 3 is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network). The method for connecting the network interface 1060 to the communication network 3 may be a wireless connection or a wired connection.

[0048] The computer 1000 is connected to necessary devices (for example, a camera, a display, and a speaker) via the input / output interface 1050 or the network interface 1060.

[0049] The store management device 100 described above is realized by, for example, a computer 1000 such as a personal computer or tablet terminal installed in the store 10. The management server 200 is realized by, for example, a computer 1000 such as a server computer, personal computer or tablet terminal installed in a management center or data center that manages the store 10. For example, the store management device 100 is realized by installing an application program for implementing the store management device 100 on the computer 1000 and running it.

[0050] In another example, the computer 1000 may be a web server, and a user may use the functions of the store management device 100 by launching a browser on a user terminal such as a personal computer, smartphone, or tablet terminal, and accessing a web page that provides the store management services of the store management device 100 via a network such as the Internet.

[0051] In yet another example, the computer 1000 may be a server device of a system such as SaaS (Software as a Service) that provides store management services for the store management device 100. A user may access the server device from a user terminal such as a personal computer, smartphone, or tablet terminal via a network such as the Internet, and the store management device 100 may be realized by a program running on the server device.

[0052] <Example of operation> FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the store management device 100 according to this embodiment. First, the determination unit 102 monitors whether the current time has reached the reference time (step S101). The current time may be obtained from a clock (not shown) included in the computer 1000, or may be obtained from an NTP (Network Time Protocol) server via the communication network 3. The determination unit 102 waits until the current time reaches the reference time (NO in step S101).

[0053] For example, the operation of the store management device 100 when it is 10:00 PM, the reference time for switching from attended mode to unattended mode, will be described below. When it is detected that the reference time of 10:00 PM has arrived (YES in step S101), the determination unit 102 confirms that there are no customers near the entrance / exit of the store 10 (step S103).

[0054] The method of determining whether or not a customer is present near the entrance of the store 10 is exemplified below. First, the camera 20 captures an image of the area around the entrance / exit of the store 10, and the image recognition device 210 performs image recognition processing on the captured image to determine whether or not a person is present. Next, if a person is detected, the image recognition processing may be used to determine whether the detected person is a store clerk. For example, information indicating the face of the store clerk and characteristics of other body parts (e.g., height, chest width, posture, gait, clothing (e.g., store clerk uniform, etc.)) may be registered in advance, and the image of the detected person may be subjected to image recognition processing to determine whether or not the person is a store clerk. Alternatively, biometric authentication information of the store clerk may be registered in advance, and a biometric authentication device (not shown) may be used to detect store clerks or customers who are store members.

[0055] The reason for checking whether or not a customer is present near the entrance / exit of store 10 is explained below. In the attended mode, the opening and closing of the entrance / exit door is controlled simply by a motion sensor, allowing customers to enter and exit freely. On the other hand, in the unattended mode, the opening and closing of the door may be controlled so that only those who have been authenticated or photographed upon entry by the entry / exit management terminal 90 are permitted to exit. In this case, a customer who entered the store without special procedures (authentication or photography) in attended mode will be unable to exit in unattended mode. A customer who entered the store without authentication or photography in attended mode will assume that they can leave the store without any special procedures, and so if they are suddenly unable to leave, they may become confused and think they are trapped. Furthermore, it is inconvenient for the customer that special procedures are required to leave the store.

[0056] Therefore, for customers who remain in the store until a certain time after the reference time, the time when the operation mode will be changed and the procedures and hassles involved when leaving the store after the mode change can be notified to the customers through in-store announcements, etc., before the mode change (for example, 30 minutes before, 10 minutes before, etc., this time is set appropriately for each store 10 based on the size of the sales area and the average length of time customers stay there, etc.).

[0057] Furthermore, if the system is configured not to check whether or not there are customers near the entrance / exit of store 10, for example, if two people try to enter the store together, the first customer may be able to enter without authentication or image capture because the system is in manned mode, but the second of the two accompanying customers who tries to enter the store will be in unmanned mode, so authentication and image capture will be required, and the second customer may not be able to enter the store together with the first customer. Therefore, in this embodiment, if there is at least one customer near the entrance / exit at the reference time, a certain time interval is set so that the operation mode will not be switched until the customer has completely left the store, completely entered the store, or returned from near the entrance / exit to the inside of the store.

[0058] The range near the entrance / exit where the presence or absence of customers is checked may be set according to the environment of the store 10 (floor structure, layout, etc.) by specifying the shooting range of the camera 20 for each store 10 or the range to be monitored within the captured image.

[0059] The determination unit 102 waits until it is determined that there are no customers near the entrance / exit (NO in step S103). If it is determined that there are no customers near the entrance / exit (YES in step S103), the mode switching unit 104 switches the operation mode between the manned mode and the unmanned mode (step S105). Since it is detected in step S102 that the reference time for switching from the manned mode to the unmanned mode, 10:00 PM, has passed, the mode switching unit 104 switches the operation mode from the manned mode to the unmanned mode.

[0060] The procedure for switching the operation mode is exemplified below, but is not limited to this. (1) A store clerk (preferably a manager or administrator such as the store manager) visually checks the status of the store 10, determines whether or not to switch modes, and switches the operation mode by operating the operation screen or operation switches of the store management device 100. (2) The store management device 100 collects various information indicating the status of the store 10, the judgment unit 102 determines whether or not to switch modes based on the status of the store 10, and the mode switching unit 104 automatically switches the operating mode of the store management device 100 based on the judgment result. (3) The management server 200 at the management center obtains information about the store 10 from the store management device 100 and displays it on the monitor. The manager at the management center checks the status of the store 10 by looking at the monitor, determines whether or not to switch modes, remotely inputs an instruction to switch the operating mode of the store management device 100, and sends the mode switch instruction to the store management device 100. (4) The management server 200 at the management center acquires information about the store 10 from the store management device 100, and determines whether or not to switch modes based on the status of the store 10, and automatically switches the operating mode of the store management device 100 remotely.

[0061] (1) to (4) may be combined. For example, after attempting automatic switching in (4), for items that could not be automatically switched or items that do not meet the criteria, the management in (3) may be performed. center The manager of the store 10 may check the situation and perform remote operation, or may further instruct the store 10 to check the situation as necessary.

[0062] However, as will be described later, there may be multiple conditions for determining whether or not to switch modes. Furthermore, there may be multiple criteria for each condition. Which conditions and criteria to use for the determination may be selected appropriately or arbitrarily for each store 10, season, etc. Alternatively, the determination unit 102 of the store management device 100 or the management server 200 may determine whether or not to switch modes based on at least some of the multiple conditions, and the remaining conditions may be manually checked and determined by a store clerk at the store 10 or a manager at the management center.

[0063] Then, when the mode switching unit 104 switches the operation mode, the setting unit 106 switches the entry conditions for the store 10 in accordance with the switched operation mode (step S107). The entry conditions are conditions for opening the automatic door 70 at the entrance of the store 10 and permitting the customer to enter the store.

[0064] The mode switching unit 104 determines that the entry condition when the operation mode is the attended mode is that a person is detected by the human presence sensor 80 linked to the opening and closing control of the automatic door 70 at the entrance and exit of the store 10. On the other hand, the entry condition when the operation mode is the unattended mode is that the entry condition is that a customer's entry operation input is received at the entry and exit control terminal 90 installed near the automatic door 70 at the entrance and exit of the store 10. The automatic door 70 may be of a type that opens in response to receiving the entry operation input, or a type that opens when a customer stands in front of the automatic door 70 after receiving the entry operation input, in which case the human presence sensor 80 detects the presence of a person and the automatic door 70 opens.

[0065] However, since the condition for entering the store after receiving an input for an entry operation in the attended mode or the unattended mode may be whether or not a person is detected, the presence of a person may be detected by a method other than the human presence sensor 80. For example, a configuration in which a person is detected using an image captured by the camera 20 is also not excluded. Furthermore, after receiving an input for an entry operation in the attended mode or the unattended mode, the automatic door 70 can be opened by the customer touching the touch center 72.

[0066] On the other hand, in unattended mode, authentication based on member information by the authentication device 220 is required to accept the customer's store entry operation input to the entry / exit control terminal 90, which is a store entry condition. Specifically, the customer reads the member information by inserting (or scanning, touching, contactless operation, etc.) their membership card into the entry / exit control terminal 90, or by holding up a two-dimensional code containing the member information displayed on the screen of the customer's mobile terminal. The entry / exit control terminal 90 transmits the read member information to the authentication device 220, which then performs a matching process.

[0067] However, the authentication process by the authentication device 220 may be based on biometric authentication information in addition to member information. The entry / exit control terminal 90 may be equipped with an imaging unit (not shown) or a biometric authentication information reader (not shown) that acquires biometric authentication information. The biometric authentication information of customers and store staff may be registered in advance, and the entry / exit control terminal 90 may acquire the customer's biometric authentication information and send it to the authentication device 220 for biometric authentication processing. The biometric authentication information may include at least one feature such as face, fingerprint, veins, iris, ears, gait, etc. In this case, pressing the operation button to photograph the customer constitutes the customer's store entry operation input to the entry / exit control terminal 90.

[0068] The entry / exit control terminal 90 then receives the authentication result from the authentication device 220. The entry / exit control terminal 90 is equipped with a control unit (not shown) that controls the opening and closing of the automatic door 70 in accordance with the authentication result. If the control unit successfully authenticates that the customer is a member based on the authentication result received from the authentication device 220, it opens the automatic door 70 or instructs the automatic door 70 to open it. If the authentication fails, the control unit does not open the automatic door 70 or does not instruct the automatic door 70 to open it.

[0069] According to this embodiment, when the store 10 switches between different operation modes to continue business, whether or not to switch is determined according to predetermined mode switching conditions, so the mode is switched in a state appropriate for the mode to which the store 10 is transitioning. Therefore, mode switching can be performed smoothly. Furthermore, the state of the store 10 after the mode change is controlled to a predetermined state, eliminating the need for procedures related to mode change and reducing the burden on store staff when switching between different operation modes. Furthermore, the occurrence of errors in the mode change procedures can be reduced, improving safety.

[0070] (Second embodiment) <Example of functional configuration> Figure 5 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the logical configuration of a store management device 100 according to this embodiment. The store management device 100 according to this embodiment is similar to the above-described embodiments, except that it is configured to control devices within the store 10 according to the operation mode of the store 10. The store management device 100 has a similar configuration to the store management device 100 in Figure 2, and also includes a control unit 120.

[0071] The control unit 120 controls the devices in the store 10 according to the operation mode.

[0072] Depending on the operation mode, the settings of various devices and equipment within the store 10 are changed. When switching modes, the control unit 120 controls those devices that are automatically controlled so that the settings of the devices correspond to the changed operation mode.

[0073] The settings of each device or facility for each operation mode will be described below. Figure 6 shows the settings of each device for each mode. Figure 6(a) shows settings that are changed automatically, and Figure 6(b) shows settings that are changed manually by a store clerk or other person.

[0074] The devices and equipment to be controlled include, for example, the automatic door 70 at the entrance and exit of the store 10, the POS terminal 30 (indicated as "cash register" in FIG. 6), and the like. and 50, flyers 50, display shelves 60, etc., but are not limited to these.

[0075] Each device and facility will be explained below. In the manned mode, the automatic door 70 is controlled to open and close in conjunction with the human sensor 80, and there are no particular restrictions on this. In the unmanned mode, the automatic door 70 stops the open and close control linked to the human sensor 80 until the entry and exit control terminal 90 receives input from the customer to enter the store, and controls the door to open and close based on the authentication result by the authentication device 220 for the user whose entry and exit control terminal 90 receives input from the customer to enter the store. Alternatively, the open and close control may be controlled in conjunction with the human sensor 80 after successful authentication.

[0076] When switching to the attended mode, the control unit 120 instructs the control unit (not shown) of the automatic door 70 to perform opening and closing control linked to the human presence sensor 80. Furthermore, when switching to the attended mode, the control unit 120 instructs the entry / exit management terminal 90 to stop operation. When switching to the unattended mode, the control unit 120 instructs the control unit of the automatic door 70 to stop opening and closing control linked to the human presence sensor 80. Furthermore, when switching to the unattended mode, the control unit 120 instructs the entry / exit management terminal 90 to start the entry / exit management process (user authentication process) and to start opening and closing control of the automatic door 70 based on the authentication result, or to start opening and closing control of the automatic door 70 linked to the human presence sensor 80 on the condition that a customer enters the store.

[0077] Furthermore, in the unmanned mode, the control unit 120 may receive a customer pressing a capture button as an input of the customer's store entry operation, and cause the camera to capture an image of the face of the customer entering the store 10.

[0078] Furthermore, in a store that allows unregistered users to enter the store in unattended mode, the user's face may be captured and recorded instead of obtaining membership information. When the control unit 120 does not accept a customer's entry operation input in unattended mode, it causes the camera of the entry / exit management terminal 90 to capture an image of the customer's face. The customer's entry operation is the input of membership information or biometric authentication information into the entry / exit management terminal 90. However, the area captured by the camera of the entry / exit management terminal 90 may be other than the customer's face, and may include the entire body or the biometric authentication information described above.

[0079] The setting unit 106 may set, depending on the operation mode, an exit condition for opening the automatic door 70 at the entrance when a customer leaves the store 10. For example, in the manned mode, the exit condition is the same as the entry condition, that is, a person is detected by the human presence sensor 80 linked to the opening / closing control of the automatic door 70 at the entrance of the store 10.

[0080] In unmanned mode, the exit condition is the same as in manned mode, and may be that a person is detected by a human presence sensor 80 linked to the opening and closing control of the automatic door 70 at the entrance and exit of the store 10, or that there is a record of entry into the store.

[0081] Furthermore, when the automatic door 70 sets the exit condition in unmanned mode as having a store entry record, it checks the store entry record for the person exiting and controls the opening and closing of the door based on the judgment of whether or not it is OK to exit, i.e., whether or not it is OK to open the automatic door 70, depending on whether or not there is an entry record. In this case, just like when entering the store, the automatic door 70 may open immediately after successful authentication, or after successful authentication, the door may open according to the opening and closing control of the automatic door 70 linked to the human sensor 80.

[0082] If the control unit 120 sets the exit condition to having a store entry record after switching to unmanned mode, it instructs the entry / exit management terminal 90 to determine whether or not the user attempting to exit can exit based on whether or not there is a store entry record for the user.

[0083] In the attended mode, the POS terminal 30 can be operated by either a store clerk or a customer, and can be set by the store clerk or by the system. In the unattended mode, the POS terminal 30 is used in a self-checkout mode that is operated by the customer themselves.

[0084] The control unit 120 switches the operation mode of the POS terminal 30 when switching from the attended mode to the unattended mode. Specifically, when switching to the unattended mode, the control unit 120 instructs the POS terminal 30, which was in the clerk-operated mode in the attended mode, to switch to the self-checkout mode operated by the customer himself / herself. The switching between the clerk-operated mode and the self-checkout mode when switching to the attended mode may be set to either automatic switching by the control unit 120 or manual switching by the clerk.

[0085] In the attended mode, the POS terminal 30 uses a normal product master that includes all products handled in the store 10. In the unattended mode, the POS terminal 30 may be controlled not to sell products that are prohibited from being sold in that mode.

[0086] Among the POS terminals 30, the manned registers can be used in the manned mode, but cannot be used in the unmanned mode. Therefore, when switching to the unmanned mode, the control unit 120 instructs the manned registers to switch to a suspended state. When switching to the manned mode, the control unit 120 may also instruct the manned registers to switch to a normal operating state. If the POS terminal 30 does not have the function to switch to a suspended state, the switching may be performed by turning the power of the POS terminal 30 OFF / ON.

[0087] The cameras 20 monitoring the store 10 may be in a normal monitoring mode when the store is manned, and in a high-level monitoring mode when the store is unmanned. Increasing the monitoring level may involve, for example, increasing the resolution of captured images, improving image quality, changing the number or positions of cameras 20 in operation, expanding or limiting the monitoring locations (not monitoring areas that do not need monitoring, and strengthening monitoring of areas that require monitoring), or starting image recognition processing using the captured images (processing such as detecting suspicious individuals or suspicious behavior through image recognition processing, or detecting abnormalities in the store).

[0088] When transitioning to the manned mode, the control unit 120 instructs the camera 20 to capture an image in the normal mode. When transitioning to the unmanned mode, the control unit 120 instructs the camera 20 to change the setting to increase the monitoring level.

[0089] Next, the switching operation when each device and each piece of equipment transitions between modes will be explained using FIG. 6(b).

[0090] Among the POS terminals 30, those that are not used as self-checkouts in the unattended mode may be powered off when the mode is switched to the unattended mode, and a store clerk may cover the POS terminal 30 with a protective cover as a security measure. It is also preferable to lock the cover. As described above, the power to the POS terminal 30 may be turned off automatically by the control unit 120 or manually by a store clerk.

[0091] Cooking appliances such as the fryer 50 may pose a risk of fire if no store staff is present, so they are turned off and prohibited from use in the unattended mode. The fryer 50 is manually turned off by a store staff member when switching to the unattended mode. If the fryer 50 can be controlled by the store management device 100, the control unit 120 may issue a command to automatically turn off the power.

[0092] For display shelves 60 displaying products with limited sales hours, such as the aforementioned alcoholic beverages, measures are taken to prevent customers from purchasing the products outside of the sales hours. One example of such measures is the installation of a partition to indicate to customers that the products are not available for sale. For example, a partition 62 is installed to block the front of the display shelf 60 to inform customers of the hours during which the products cannot be purchased. The partition 62 may be a screen, a shutter, a door, a curtain, a blind, or the like, and its form is not particularly limited. It is sufficient that the partition 62 at least prevents customers from accidentally reaching for the products in the display shelf 60. The partition 62 may be installed manually by a store clerk when switching to the unmanned mode, or the shutter or the like may be automatically closed by the control unit 120.

[0093] The mode switching unit 104 determines that a partition is installed as a necessary condition for switching to the unmanned mode. If the partition is configured to be a shutter or the like that can be automatically controlled to open and close by the control unit 120, whether a partition is installed can be determined by obtaining information indicating the open / closed state of the shutter from the control unit 120.

[0094] In the case where the partition is something that is manually installed by a store clerk, such as a screen, the camera 20 may capture an image of the target display shelf 60 and recognize the letters or markers written on the partition, and the judgment unit 102 may determine that the partition has been installed if the letters or markers written on the partition are recognized.

[0095] The store management device 100 may also include a presentation unit (not shown) that presents task items when switching modes. For example, for tasks that can only be performed manually among those shown in FIG. 6(b), a task check screen (not shown) may be displayed on the display of a store clerk's mobile device (not shown) or a store PC (not shown) to indicate the tasks to be performed when switching modes. A check box may also be provided for items that have already been completed. The store clerk can check each completed task, allowing them to recognize which tasks have been completed and which have not. The determination unit 102 may determine whether a manual task, such as partition installation, has been completed, by obtaining information indicating whether a check mark has been entered on the task check screen.

[0096] Furthermore, the determination unit 102 may determine whether a specific device in the store 10 is in an inactive state. An inactive state includes being powered off, stopped, or idle. For example, the determination unit 102 determines whether a manned register is out of service, whether the fryer 50 is powered off, etc. The mode switching unit 104 sets the inactive state of a specific device as a necessary condition for switching to the unmanned mode.

[0097] As shown in Fig. 7, the store management device 100 of this embodiment may further include an output unit 122. The output unit 122 outputs an alert regarding items that do not satisfy the necessary conditions.

[0098] In addition to the installation of the partitions and the non-operating state of each device and facility, the desired state of each device and facility in each mode shown in FIG. 6 may also be set as a necessary condition.

[0099] Specifically, when switching to unmanned mode, the output unit 122 notifies the user that a partition has not been installed, that the power to the fryer 50 has not been turned off, that the power to the manned register has not been turned off, and that the manned register has not been covered with a security protective cover.

[0100] Alternatively, the output unit 122 outputs an alert when it detects that the automatic switch to the unmanned mode has not been achieved. Specifically, the output unit 122 detects and notifies the user that the entry / exit management terminal 90 is not operating, that the product master of the POS terminal 30 has not been switched to a product master exclusively for nighttime use that excludes alcoholic beverages, or that the monitoring level of the camera 20 has not been increased.

[0101] Furthermore, the output unit 122 may output an alert for any item for which no check mark has been entered on the above-mentioned work check screen.

[0102] The alert from the output unit 122 is output to, for example, a terminal (not shown) in the store 10, a mobile terminal (not shown) of a store clerk, the management server 200 in the management center, etc. The alert may be output by, for example, displaying on a screen, sending a message, outputting a notification sound or voice, etc.

[0103] Furthermore, the mode switching unit 104 switches the operation mode of the store 10 to the unmanned mode at a second reference time that is later than the reference time, on the condition that all of the necessary conditions are met.

[0104] For example, at 10:00 PM, the reference time for switching from the attended mode to the unattended mode, the control unit 120 starts controlling each device and each piece of equipment. Changing the settings of each device and piece of equipment to the unattended mode takes time. Therefore, the second reference time, which is later than the reference time, may be, for example, 10:10 PM, 10:30 PM, or 10 minutes or 30 minutes after the reference time.

[0105] As shown in Fig. 8, the store management device 100 of this embodiment may further include a notification unit 124. The notification unit 124 notifies that the operation mode has been switched.

[0106] There are various methods for determining whether the operation mode has been switched, for example, when all the above-mentioned necessary conditions are satisfied, or when the mode switching unit 104 has switched the mode.

[0107] The notification destination by the notification unit 124 is, for example, a terminal (not shown) in the store 10, a mobile terminal (not shown) of a store clerk, or the management server 200. Possible notification methods include, for example, displaying on a screen, sending a message, outputting a notification sound or voice, etc.

[0108] According to this embodiment, when switching modes, the control unit 120 can change the settings of each device and each piece of equipment to correspond to the mode after the transition, thereby achieving the same effects as the above embodiment and further reducing the workload of store staff during the transition.

[0109] Furthermore, the output unit 122 can notify the user that the necessary conditions for mode switching are not met, so that the setting work required for mode switching can be performed reliably, and inconveniences caused by setting work errors, etc. Also, the notification unit 124 can notify the management center or store clerk of the completion of mode switching, so that if the manager or store clerk does not receive the notification that mode switching is complete, they can take action to investigate the cause.

[0110] (Third embodiment) Figure 9 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the logical configuration of a store management device 100 of this embodiment. The store management device 100 of Figure 9 has the determination unit 102 of the store management device 100 of Figure 2 and the output unit 122 of the store management device 100 of Figure 7. As shown in Figure 9, the store management device 100 does not necessarily have to include other components of the store management device 100 of any of the above embodiments, such as the mode switching unit 104, the setting unit 106, the control unit 120, and the notification unit 124.

[0111] In this embodiment, the determination unit 102 determines whether or not a predetermined partition is installed in a predetermined sales area at a reference time in the store 10. Then, the output unit 122 outputs an alert when it is determined that the predetermined partition is not installed.

[0112] The alert output destination and output method of the output unit 122 may be the same as those of the output unit 122 in the second embodiment. The judgment criteria by the judgment unit 102 may include at least one of the predetermined criteria described in the above embodiment. The conditions and criteria to be used for judgment may be set for each store 10 by operation input by a store clerk or manager.

[0113] According to this embodiment, the judgment unit 102 is configured to judge whether or not a predetermined partition is installed at a reference time for a sales area such as a display shelf 60 for alcoholic beverages, etc., the sale of which is prohibited at night, and to issue an alert if the partition is not installed, thereby preventing alcoholic beverages from being sold without the partition being installed after the reference time.

[0114] The above embodiments and variations can be combined to the extent that they are not inconsistent. For example, the store management device 100 in Fig. 2 can be combined with at least one of the control unit 120 in Fig. 5, the output unit 122 in Fig. 7, and the notification unit 124 in Fig. 8.

[0115] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings, these are merely examples of the present invention, and various other configurations can also be adopted. For example, in the above embodiment, the door installed at the entrance of the store 10 is an automatic door 70 that can be opened and closed automatically. In another embodiment, the door installed at the entrance of the store 10 may be a door that can be remotely controlled by an electronic lock, such as a double door. In the case of a double door, the door is opened and closed manually by a person, so a human presence sensor does not need to be installed around the door. In other words, when the operation mode is the manned mode, the store entry condition (detection of human presence by the human presence sensor 80) does not need to be set.

[0116] Furthermore, in unmanned mode, the control unit 120 controls the locking and unlocking of the electronic lock attached to the door, instead of controlling the opening and closing of the automatic door 70. When a customer enters the store 10 in unmanned mode, the control unit 120 unlocks the electronic lock by authenticating or photographing the customer using the entry / exit management terminal 90 (by satisfying the store entry conditions). Once the electronic lock is unlocked, the customer can manually open the door and enter the store. The control unit 120 locks the electronic lock after a person has entered the store (for example, after a predetermined time has passed).

[0117] Furthermore, when a customer leaves the store 10, the control unit 120 unlocks the electronic lock upon receiving a press of an unlock operation button provided inside the store 10. Once the electronic lock is unlocked, the customer can manually open the door and leave the store. After the person leaves the store (for example, after a predetermined time has passed), the control unit 120 locks the electronic lock.

[0118] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to the embodiments and examples, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and examples. Various modifications that can be understood by those skilled in the art can be made to the configuration and details of the present invention within the scope of the present invention. In the present invention, when information about users such as customers is acquired and used, it is assumed that this is done lawfully.

[0119] Some or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but are not limited to, the following supplementary notes. 1. A determination means for determining whether a predetermined standard is met in a store; a mode switching means for switching the store's operation mode between a manned mode in which at least a store clerk is present and an unmanned mode in which no store clerk is present, using the determination result by the determination means; a setting means for changing the store entry conditions in accordance with the changed operation mode when the mode changing means changes the operation mode; Equipped with The predetermined criterion is that there are no customers near the entrance / exit of the store when the reference time arrives. 2. In the store management device described in 1., The store management device further comprises a control means for controlling the devices in the store according to the operation mode. 3. In the store management device described in 1. or 2., The setting means When the operation mode is the manned mode, the store entry condition is that a person is detected by a human presence sensor linked to the opening and closing control of a door at an entrance and exit of the store, A store management device in which the store entry condition when the operation mode is the unmanned mode is that a customer's entry operation input to a terminal installed near an entrance door of the store is accepted. 4. In the store management device described in 3. which cites 2., The control means When the operation mode is the unmanned mode, the store management device stops door opening / closing control linked to a human presence sensor, and controls the door opening / closing based on authentication results using customer entry operations input to a terminal installed near the door at the entrance / exit of the store. 5. In the store management device described in 4., The control means controls a camera to capture an image of a face of the customer entering the store when the operation mode is the unmanned mode. 6. In the store management device according to 4. or 5., The store management device, wherein the control means, when the operation mode is the unmanned mode and the store entry operation input from the customer is not accepted, causes a camera to capture an image of the customer's face. 7. In the store management device according to any one of 1. to 6., The setting means further sets an exit condition for opening the entrance door when the customer leaves the store, in accordance with the operation mode. 8. In the store management device according to any one of 1. to 7., A store management device, wherein the mode switching means further requires that a mode switching instruction be input from the store clerk as a necessary condition for switching modes. 9. The store management device according to any one of 1. to 8. A store management device, wherein the mode switching means makes it a prerequisite for switching modes that it receives a mode switching instruction input from a management center that remotely manages the store. 10. The store management device according to any one of 3. to 9., which refers to 2., The control means The store management device switches the operation mode of the POS terminal when switching from the attended mode to the unattended mode. 11. The store management device according to any one of 1. to 10. The predetermined criterion is that a predetermined partition indicating that sales are not to be conducted is installed in a predetermined sales area, The store management device, wherein the mode switching means makes the installation of the partition a necessary condition for switching to the unmanned mode. 12. The store management device according to any one of 1. to 11. the predetermined criterion is that a predetermined device in the store is in an out-of-operation state; The store management device, wherein the mode switching means makes it a necessary condition for switching to the unmanned mode that the predetermined device is in the non-operating state. 13. The store management device according to any one of 9. to 12., which refers to 8., The store management device further comprises: an output means for outputting an alert regarding items that do not satisfy the necessary conditions. 14. The store management device according to any one of 9. to 13., which refers to 8., The mode switching means switches the operation mode of the store to the unmanned mode at a second reference time that is after the reference time, on the condition that all of the necessary conditions are met. 15. The store management device according to any one of 1. to 14. The store management device further comprises a notification means for notifying that the operation mode has been switched.

[0120] 16. The store management device The store determines whether the product meets the specified criteria, Using the judgment results, The aforementioned Switching the store's operation mode between a staffed mode in which at least a staff member is present and an unstaffed mode in which the staff member is not present; when the operation mode is switched, a condition for entering the store is switched in accordance with the operation mode after the switch; A store management method, wherein the predetermined criterion is that there are no customers near the entrance / exit of the store when a reference time arrives. 17. In the store management method described in 16., The store management device further A store management method for controlling devices in the store according to the operation mode. 18. In the store management method described in 16. or 17., The store management device When the operation mode is the manned mode, the store entry condition is that a person is detected by a human presence sensor linked to the opening and closing control of a door at an entrance and exit of the store, A store management method in which the store entry condition when the operation mode is the unmanned mode is that a customer's entry operation input to a terminal installed near an entrance door of the store is accepted. 19. In the store management method described in 18., which cites 17., The store management device A store management method in which, when the operation mode is the unmanned mode, door opening / closing control linked to a human presence sensor is stopped, and door opening / closing control is performed based on authentication results using customer entry operations input to a terminal installed near the door at the entrance / exit of the store. 20. In the store management method described in 19., The store management device A store management method, wherein when the operation mode is the unmanned mode, a camera captures an image of the face of the customer entering the store. 21. In the store management method described in 19. or 20., The store management device The store management method includes, when the operation mode is the unmanned mode and the store entry operation input from the customer is not accepted, causing a camera to capture an image of the customer's face. 22. In the store management method described in any one of 16. to 21., The store management device Furthermore, the store management method sets an exit condition for opening the entrance door when the customer leaves the store according to the operation mode. 23. In the store management method described in any one of 16. to 22., The store management device Furthermore, the store management method includes a step of making it a necessary condition for mode switching that a mode switching instruction is received from the store clerk. 24. In the store management method described in any one of 16. to 23., The store management device A store management method, wherein a necessary condition for mode switching is receiving a mode switching instruction input from a management center that remotely manages the store. 25. Quote 17. 1 In the store management method according to any one of items 8 to 24, The store management device The store management method includes switching the operation mode of the POS terminal when switching from the attended mode to the unattended mode. 26. In the store management method described in any one of 16. to 25., The predetermined criterion is that a predetermined partition indicating that sales are not to be conducted is installed in a predetermined sales area, The store management device A store management method in which the installation of the partition is a necessary condition for switching to the unmanned mode. 27. In the store management method described in any one of 16. to 26., the predetermined criterion is that a predetermined device in the store is in an out-of-operation state; The store management device A store management method, wherein a necessary condition for switching to the unmanned mode is that the predetermined device is in the non-operating state. 28. In the store management method described in any one of 24. to 27. which cites 23., The store management device further The store management method outputs an alert regarding non-compliance with the requirements. 29. In the store management method described in any one of 24. to 28. which cites 23., The store management device A store management method, wherein the operation mode of the store is switched to the unmanned mode at a second reference time that is later than the reference time, on the condition that all of the necessary conditions are met. 30. In the store management method described in any one of 16. to 29., The store management device further A store management method that notifies the change of the operation mode.

[0121] 31. To the computer, A procedure for determining whether a predetermined standard is met at the store; a step of switching the operation mode of the store between a manned mode in which at least a store clerk is present and an unmanned mode in which no store clerk is present, using the determination result of the step of determining; a program for executing a procedure for switching a store entry condition in accordance with the operation mode after switching when the operation mode is switched in the operation mode switching procedure, The predetermined criterion is that there is no customer near the entrance or exit of the store when a reference time arrives. 32. In the program described in 31., A program for causing a computer to execute a procedure for controlling the devices in the store according to the operation mode. 33. In the program described in 31. or 32., In the step of switching the store entry conditions, When the operation mode is the manned mode, the store entry condition is that a person is detected by a human presence sensor linked to the opening and closing control of a door at an entrance and exit of the store, A program for causing a computer to execute a procedure in which the store entry condition when the operation mode is the unmanned mode is that a customer's entry operation input has been received at a terminal installed near the entrance door of the store. 34. In the program described in 33. which cites 32., A program for causing a computer to execute a procedure for stopping door opening / closing control linked to a human presence sensor when the operation mode is the unmanned mode, and controlling the door opening / closing based on the authentication results using the customer's store entry operation input to a terminal installed near the door at the entrance / exit of the store. 35. In the program described in 34., A program for causing a computer to execute a procedure for capturing an image of a face of a customer entering the store with a camera when the operation mode is the unmanned mode. 36. In the program described in 34. or 35., A program for causing a computer to execute a procedure for capturing an image of a customer's face with a camera when the store entry operation input of the customer is not accepted when the operation mode is the unmanned mode. 37. In the program according to any one of 31. to 36., In the step of switching the store entry conditions, Furthermore, the program causes a computer to execute a procedure for setting an exit condition for opening the entrance door when the customer leaves the store, in accordance with the operation mode. 38. In the program according to any one of 31. to 37., A program for causing a computer to execute a procedure in which, in the procedure for switching the operation mode, a necessary condition for the mode switching is that a mode switching instruction is received from the store clerk. 39. In the program according to any one of 31. to 38., A program for causing a computer to execute a procedure in which a necessary condition for switching the operation mode is to receive a mode switching instruction input from a management center that remotely manages the store. 40. In the program described in any one of 33. to 39. that cites 32., A program for causing a computer to execute a procedure for switching the operation mode of a POS terminal when switching from the attended mode to the unattended mode. 41. In the program according to any one of 31. to 40., The predetermined criterion is that a predetermined partition indicating that sales are not to be conducted is installed in a predetermined sales area, A program for causing a computer to execute a procedure for making the installation of the partition a necessary condition for switching to the unmanned mode in the procedure for switching the operation mode. 42. In the program according to any one of 31. to 41., the predetermined criterion is that a predetermined device in the store is in an out-of-operation state; A program for causing a computer to execute a procedure for making the predetermined device being in the non-operating state a necessary condition for switching to the unmanned mode in the procedure for switching the operation mode. 43. In the program described in any one of 39. to 42. that cites 38., A program for causing a computer to execute a procedure for outputting an alert regarding items that do not satisfy the necessary conditions. 44. In the program described in any one of 39. to 43. that cites 38., A program for causing a computer to execute a procedure for switching the operation mode, in which the operation mode of the store is switched to the unmanned mode at a second reference time that is after the reference time, on the condition that all of the necessary conditions are met. 45. In the program according to any one of 31. to 44., A program for causing a computer to further execute a procedure for notifying that the operation mode has been switched.

[0122] 46. ​​In a store, a determination means for determining whether a predetermined partition is installed in a predetermined sales area at a reference time; and an output means for outputting an alert when it is determined that the specified partition is not installed. 47. A store management device At a reference time in a store, it is determined whether a predetermined partition is installed in a predetermined sales area, A store management method that outputs an alert when it is determined that the specified partition is not installed. 48. A procedure for determining whether a predetermined partition is installed in a predetermined sales area at a reference time in a store; A program for causing a computer to execute a procedure for outputting an alert when it is determined that the specified partition is not installed.

[0123] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-136368, filed on August 12, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. [Explanation of symbols]

[0124] 1. Store system 3. Communication Network 10 stores 20 Camera 30 POS terminals 40 Display 42 Speaker 50 Flyer 60 display shelves 62 Partition 70 Automatic Door 72 Touch Center 80 Human Sensor 90 Entrance / exit control terminal 100 Store management device 102 Judgment section 104 Mode switching section 106 Setting section 120 control section 122 Output section 124 Notification Department 200 Management Server 210 Image Recognition Device 220 Authentication Device 1000 computers 1010 Bus 1020 processor 1030 memory 1040 Storage Device 1050 Input / Output Interface 1060 Network Interface

Claims

1. a determination means for determining whether a predetermined standard is met in a store that operates by switching the operation mode; a mode switching means for switching the operation mode of the store between a manned mode in which at least a store clerk is present and an unmanned mode in which no store clerk is present, using the determination result by the determination means; a setting means for changing the store entry conditions in accordance with the changed operation mode when the mode changing means changes the operation mode; Equipped with the store entry conditions include a first store entry condition for entering the store in the attended mode and a second store entry condition for entering the store in the unattended mode, the first store entry condition and the second store entry condition being different; The specified criterion is that when a reference time arrives, there are no customers other than the store staff near the entrance / exit of the store, as determined by processing images captured of the area near the entrance / exit of the store, in the store management device.

2. The store management device according to claim 1, The store management device further comprises a control means for controlling the devices in the store according to the operation mode.

3. The store management device according to claim 1 or 2, The setting means When the operation mode is the manned mode, the store entry condition is that a person is detected by a human presence sensor linked to the opening and closing control of a door at an entrance and exit of the store, A store management device in which the store entry condition when the operation mode is the unmanned mode is that a customer's entry operation input to a terminal installed near an entrance door of the store is accepted.

4. The store management device according to claim 3, which relies on claim 2, The control means When the operation mode is the unmanned mode, the store management device stops door opening / closing control linked to a human presence sensor, and controls the door opening / closing based on the authentication result using the customer's store entry operation input to a terminal installed near the door at the entrance / exit of the store.

5. The store management device according to claim 4, The control means controls a camera to capture an image of a face of the customer entering the store when the operation mode is the unmanned mode.

6. The store management device according to claim 4 or 5, The store management device, wherein the control means, when the operation mode is the unmanned mode and the store entry operation input from the customer is not accepted, causes a camera to capture an image of the customer's face.

7. The store management device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The setting means further sets an exit condition for opening the entrance door when the customer leaves the store, in accordance with the operation mode.

8. The store management device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, A store management device, wherein the mode switching means further requires that a mode switching instruction be input from the store clerk as a necessary condition for switching modes.

9. The store management device Determine whether a store operating in a different operating mode satisfies a predetermined standard; Using the determination result, the operation mode of the store is switched between an attended mode in which at least a store clerk is present and an unattended mode in which the store clerk is not present; When the operation mode is switched, a condition for entering the store is switched in accordance with the operation mode after the switch; the store entry conditions include a first store entry condition for entering the store in the attended mode and a second store entry condition for entering the store in the unattended mode, the first store entry condition and the second store entry condition being different; A store management method in which the specified criterion is that when a reference time arrives, there are no customers other than the store staff near the entrance / exit of the store, as determined by processing images captured of the area near the entrance / exit of the store.

10. On the computer, a procedure for determining whether a store operating in a different operating mode satisfies a predetermined standard; a step of switching the operation mode of the store between a manned mode in which at least a store clerk is present and an unmanned mode in which the store clerk is not present, using a result of the determination in the step of determining; a program for executing a procedure for switching a store entry condition in accordance with the operation mode after switching when the operation mode is switched in the operation mode switching procedure, the store entry conditions include a first store entry condition for entering the store in the attended mode and a second store entry condition for entering the store in the unattended mode, the first store entry condition and the second store entry condition being different; The program determines that the predetermined criterion is that there are no customers other than the store clerk near the entrance / exit of the store when the reference time arrives, as determined by processing an image captured of the area near the entrance / exit of the store.

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