RFID tag communication device

Abstract

To provide a wireless tag communication device that allows an operator to display an intuitively understandable guidance.SOLUTION: According to an embodiment, a wireless tag communication device includes an antenna, a communication control circuit, a camera, a sensor, and a processor. The antenna has directivity. The communication control circuit communicates with a wireless tag via the antenna. The camera captures an image in which a direction in which the directivity of the antenna is maximized coincides with a capturing direction. The sensor detects brightness in a first image captured by the camera. The processor calculates a detection position of a wireless tag as a search target in the first image, and displays, on a display, the first image and a second image in which the first image is masked with a mask density according to a sensor value detected by the sensor in an area other than an explicit area with the detection position of the wireless tag as a base point.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a radio tag communication device. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there have been radio frequency tag communication devices designed to read RFID tags (hereinafter also referred to as wireless tags) located at unspecified locations. The radio frequency tag communication device communicates with a specific RFID tag while changing the antenna direction according to the operator's operation. The radio frequency tag communication device estimates the direction in which the specific RFID tag is located based on the communication status with the specific RFID tag. Conventional radio frequency tag communication devices notify the operator of the direction in which the RFID tag is located by displaying a guidance screen including the estimated direction in which the RFID tag is located on a display.

[0003] The operator searches for RFID tags or items with RFID tags attached while moving in the direction indicated on the display. However, it takes some getting used to for the operator to actually find the RFID tag by relying on the direction of the RFID tag displayed on the guidance screen of a conventional RFID tag communication device. It is desirable for the RFID tag communication device to display the location of the RFID tag in a way that is easy for the operator to intuitively recognize, so that the operator can easily find the RFID tag. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-70341 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, an object is to provide a radio tag communication device that can display guidance that is intuitively easy for an operator to understand. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to an embodiment, a wireless tag communication device includes an antenna, a communication control circuit, a camera, a sensor, and a processor. The antenna has directionality. The communication control circuit communicates with the wireless tag via the antenna. The camera captures an image whose capture direction coincides with the direction in which the antenna's directivity is maximized. The sensor detects luminance in a first image captured by the camera. The processor calculates the detection position of a wireless tag to be searched for in the first image, and displays on a display the first image and a second image in which an area other than a specified area based on the detection position of the wireless tag is masked with a mask density corresponding to a sensor value detected by the sensor. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing an example of the configuration of a control system in a radio tag communication device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an external view showing an example of the external configuration of the radio tag communication device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a first display example of a guidance screen displayed by the RFID tag communication device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a first display example of a guidance screen displayed by the RFID tag communication device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a first display example of a guidance screen displayed by the RFID tag communication device according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a second display example of the guidance screen displayed by the RFID tag communication device according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a second display example of the guidance screen displayed by the RFID tag communication device according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a second display example of the guidance screen displayed by the RFID tag communication device according to the embodiment. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a third display example of the guidance screen displayed by the RFID tag communication device according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a third display example of the guidance screen displayed by the RFID tag communication device according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a third display example of the guidance screen displayed by the RFID tag communication device according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining a first operation example of the radio tag communication device according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a fourth display example of the guidance screen displayed by the RFID tag communication device according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a fourth display example of the guidance screen displayed by the RFID tag communication device according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining a second operation example of the radio tag communication device according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the configuration of a radio tag communication device (radio tag reader) 10 according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing an example of the configuration of a radio tag communication device 10 according to an embodiment. The radio-frequency tag communication device 10 according to the embodiment is a device that communicates with an RFID tag (wireless tag). The radio-frequency tag communication device 10 is a radio-frequency tag reading device that communicates with the RFID tag to read tag information recorded in the RFID tag. The radio-frequency tag communication device 10 estimates information about the location of the RFID tag, such as the direction in which the RFID tag is located, from the RFID tag reading results. The radio-frequency tag communication device 10 displays an image indicating the estimated location of the RFID tag on a display 114.

[0009] An RFID tag is a wireless communication device that operates using radio waves (output signals) from the RFID tag communication device 10. The RFID tag includes a processor, memory, a communication circuit, an antenna, and the like. In response to a read command from the RFID tag communication device 10, the RFID tag outputs a response signal containing tag information recorded in its own memory. For example, an RFID tag is attached to an item such as a product or a part. The RFID tag attached to the product has tag information, including information identifying the product, recorded in its internal memory.

[0010] The RFID tag communication device 10 according to the embodiment is operated by an operator. The RFID tag communication device 10 is a device that changes the orientation of an antenna 25 used for communication with an RFID tag through operation by the operator. For example, the RFID tag communication device 10 is a handheld device that the operator holds and operates. The RFID tag communication device 10 may also be mounted on a mobile object in which the operator controls the orientation of the antenna.

[0011] The RFID tag communication device 10 according to the embodiment reads an RFID tag attached to an item while changing its position and orientation through an operator's operation. The RFID tag communication device 10 reads tag information recorded in the RFID tag by receiving a response signal from the RFID tag present within its reading range. The RFID tag communication device 10 also acquires information such as an RSSI value and a phase value detected from the response signal from the RFID tag. The RFID tag communication device 10 stores the tag information, as well as the RSSI value and the phase value, as the RFID tag reading result.

[0012] For example, the wireless tag communication device 10 is operated as a search device for searching for items with RFID tags attached within a predetermined area such as a warehouse, a store, etc. The wireless tag communication device 10 as a search device continuously reads RFID tags to be searched for while changing its position and orientation according to the operation of an operator.

[0013] The RFID tag communication device 10 estimates the direction in which the RFID tag exists (tag direction) based on wireless communication with the RFID tag being searched for. The RFID tag communication device 10 also estimates the position of the RFID tag communication device 10 (its own position) based on the video captured by the camera 29 and the information detected by the sensor 23. The RFID tag communication device 10 also estimates the position in which the RFID tag exists (detection position) based on the time-series estimation results of the tag direction and the estimation results of the own position of the device. The RFID tag communication device 10 displays the estimated RFID tag position on the display 114 as an image that can be intuitively recognized by the operator.

[0014] In the configuration example shown in Figure 1, the radio tag communication device 10 has a processor 21, a memory 22, a sensor 23, a communication control circuit 24, an antenna 25, a communication interface (I / F) 26, an interface 27, an information terminal 28, a camera 29, a sensor 31, and a power supply 33.

[0015] The processor 21 controls each unit. The processor 21 includes, for example, an arithmetic circuit such as a CPU. The processor 21 executes programs to control each unit and perform various data processing. The processor 21 may also include an internal memory. The processor 21 executes programs stored in the memory 22 or the like to perform various processes.

[0016] The memory 22 includes various types of memory. For example, the memory 22 includes memories such as ROM, RAM, and NVM. ROM is a non-volatile memory that cannot be rewritten. ROM stores programs to be executed by the processor 21. RAM is a volatile memory that temporarily stores data. RAM operates as a working memory or buffer memory. NVM is a rewritable non-volatile memory. NVM stores information such as control information, setting information, and processing results.

[0017] The NVM of the memory 22 also stores various programs for the processor 21 to execute each process described below. For example, the memory 22 stores a program for executing a process of estimating the position (tag position) of an RFID tag to be searched for. The memory 22 also stores a program for executing a process of estimating the tag direction and a program for executing a process of estimating the position of the device itself, which are related to the tag position estimation process.

[0018] The memory 22 stores a program for executing a display process for displaying a guidance screen corresponding to the tag position on the display device 114. The memory 22 also stores a program for executing image processing for generating a second image indicating the tag position, in relation to the display process of the guidance screen. The memory 22 also stores a program for masking the image captured by the camera 29 with a density corresponding to the sensor value measured by the sensor 31, in relation to the process of generating the second image. The memory 22 also stores a program for displaying a second image, such as a mark image indicating the tag position or a guidance image, in a color corresponding to the color information of the image captured by the camera 29. The memory 22 may also store a plurality of patterns of second images that can be displayed as mark images indicating the tag position or operation guidance images.

[0019] The sensor 23 is a sensor that detects the movement of the wireless tag communication device 10. For example, the sensor 23 is an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, or a geomagnetic (azimuth) sensor. The sensor 23 may be configured to include multiple types of sensors. The sensor 23 may be configured to be included in the information terminal 28, or may include a sensor included in the information terminal 28.

[0020] The communication control circuit 24 and the antenna 25 constitute an RFID interface that communicates with an RFID tag. The communication control circuit 24 includes a control circuit for communicating with the RFID tag via the antenna 25. The communication control circuit 24 causes the antenna 25 to emit a transmission signal (radio wave) supplied from the processor 21 at a set output value. The antenna 25 outputs the transmission signal supplied from the communication control circuit 24 as a radio wave that can be received by the RFID tag.

[0021] The communication control circuit 24 not only outputs a transmission signal to the antenna 25, but also supplies a signal received by the antenna 25 to the processor 21 as received data. The communication control circuit 24 receives a response signal from the RFID tag by the antenna 25, processes the response signal (received signal) received by the antenna 25, and supplies the processed signal to the processor 21. For example, the communication control circuit 24 supplies the processor 21 with tag information included in the received signal from the RFID tag, an RSSI value indicating the strength of the received signal, and a phase value.

[0022] The communication I / F 26 is an interface for communicating with an external device. The communication I / F 26 is a communication interface for communicating with a higher-level device 11 such as a server. The communication I / F 26 may be an interface for wired communication or an interface for wireless communication.

[0023] The interface 27 is an interface for connecting to the information terminal 28. The interface 27 may be any interface that corresponds to an interface included in the information terminal 28. For example, the interface 27 may be an interface that physically contacts and connects to an interface included in the information terminal 28, such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface or a LAN interface. The interface 27 may also be an interface that establishes a wireless communication connection, such as a Bluetooth (registered trademark) interface or a Wi-Fi (registered trademark) interface.

[0024] The information terminal 28 is a device equipped with a display 114 and an input device 115. The information terminal 28 is a user interface that outputs information to be presented to an operator and inputs information instructed by the operator. The information terminal 28 may be, for example, a portable information processing device such as a smartphone or a tablet PC.

[0025] In the configuration example shown in FIG. 1, the information terminal 28 includes a processor 111, a memory 112, an interface (I / F) 113, a display 114, an input device 115, and the like. The processor 111 controls each unit and processes data. The processor 111 is, for example, a CPU. The processor 111 realizes various operations by executing programs stored in the memory 112. The processor 111 may also execute some or all of the processing executed by the processor 21, which will be described later.

[0026] The interface 113 is an interface (second communication interface) for communicating with the processor 21. The interface 113 may be any interface that corresponds to the interface 27. For example, the interface 113 is an interface such as a LAN, a USB, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi.

[0027] The display unit 114 is a device that displays information. For example, the display unit 114 displays the detection results of an RFID tag (for example, the position of the RFID tag). The input unit 115 is a device that allows an operator to input operation instructions and the like. The display unit 114 and the input unit 115 are configured, for example, by a display device with a touch panel.

[0028] The sensor 31 is a sensor that detects the brightness or illuminance of the image captured by the camera 29 (first image). The camera 29 captures an image. The camera 29 captures an image of the communication range (read range) with the RFID tag by the antenna 25. The camera 29 captures an image with the shooting direction being the direction in which the directivity of the antenna 25 is maximized. The camera 29 is provided in the wireless tag communication device 10 so that the optical axis of the shooting direction coincides with the axis of the direction in which the directivity of the antenna 25 is maximized. For example, if the direction in which the directivity of the antenna 25 is maximized is defined as the direction in which the antenna 25 is oriented, the camera 29 is configured so that the shooting direction coincides with the direction of the antenna.

[0029] Sensor 31 is a sensor that detects the brightness or illuminance in an image (first image) captured by camera 29. For example, sensor 31 is a brightness sensor that detects the brightness in an image captured by camera 29. Sensor 31 may also be an illuminance sensor that detects the illuminance in an area captured by camera 29. Sensor 31 may also be configured to be included in information terminal 28.

[0030] The power supply 33 supplies power for operating the radio tag communication device 10. The power supply 33 supplies operating power to each part of the radio tag communication device 10. In the handheld radio tag communication device 10, the power supply 33 is, for example, configured by a rechargeable battery.

[0031] Next, a detailed description will be given of an example of the configuration of the communication control circuit 24 and the antenna 25 in the RFID tag communication device 10 according to the embodiment. The communication control circuit 24 includes a modulation circuit, a transmitting amplifier circuit, a coupler, a receiving amplifier circuit, a demodulation circuit, an output setting circuit, and a level detection circuit. The antenna 25 is connected to the coupler in the communication control circuit 24. The antenna 25 transmits and receives radio waves for communication with the RFID tag. The communication control circuit 24 processes signals to be transmitted to the RFID tag and signals received from the RFID tag via the antenna 25.

[0032] The modulation circuit modulates a waveform signal (carrier wave) with the input transmission data. The amplifier circuit on the transmitting side amplifies the output signal of the modulation circuit. The coupler supplies the output signal of the amplifier circuit on the transmitting side to antenna 25. With this configuration, communication control circuit 24 outputs a carrier wave modulated with the transmission data from antenna 25.

[0033] The RFID tag receives radio waves as a transmission signal transmitted from the antenna 25. The RFID tag recognizes, for example, a read command included in the transmission signal transmitted from the antenna 25. When the RFID tag recognizes the read command, it outputs data (tag information) stored in its own memory via radio waves, for example, by backscatter modulation.

[0034] The antenna 25 receives radio waves as reception signals output by the RFID tag. The communication control circuit 24 acquires the reception signal received by the antenna 25 using a coupler and supplies the acquired reception signal to a reception-side amplifier circuit. The reception-side amplifier circuit amplifies the reception signal received by the antenna 25. The demodulation circuit demodulates the data (tag information) included in the reception signal amplified by the reception-side amplifier circuit.

[0035] The antenna 25 has directionality. The antenna 25 is, for example, a planar antenna. However, the antenna 25 is not limited to a specific configuration. The antenna 25 is arranged so as to transmit electromagnetic waves toward a communication (reading) area centered on the direction where the directivity is maximized (for example, direction a shown in FIG. 2). The RFID tag communication device 10 is configured so that the direction where the directivity of the antenna 25 is maximized is the front.

[0036] The communication control circuit 24 also sets the strength (output value) of the signal to be output by the output setting circuit. The amplifier circuit on the transmitting side amplifies the signal supplied from the modulation circuit so that it reaches the output value set by the output setting circuit. The antenna 25 transmits an output signal (radio wave) of the output value set by the output setting circuit, which is supplied from the amplifier circuit on the transmitting side via a coupler.

[0037] The communication control circuit 24 uses a level detection circuit to detect the strength of the signal input to the receiving amplifier circuit. The receiving amplifier circuit receives the signal received by the antenna 25 via a coupler. The communication control circuit 24 uses the level detection circuit to detect information for identifying the RSSI value, which indicates the strength of the signal received by the antenna 25 (the response signal from the RFID tag).

[0038] Next, the external configuration of the RFID tag communication device 10 according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the external configuration of the radio tag communication device 10 according to the embodiment. The RFID tag communication device 10 shown in Fig. 2 is a handheld device that is operated by an operator in a held state. The RFID tag communication device 10 shown in Fig. 2 is used, for example, as a search device that searches for an RFID tag or an article to which an RFID tag is attached.

[0039] In the configuration example shown in FIG. 2, the RFID tag communication device 10 is configured to be operated with an information terminal 28 set in a reader device (base device) 120. The reader device 120 is a device that includes each component other than the information terminal 28 shown in FIG. 1. The reader device 120 includes a housing in which an antenna 25 is installed. For example, in the reader device 120, the antenna 25 is installed so that its directivity is strongest in the direction of arrow a shown in FIG. 2. Here, the direction of arrow a is assumed to be the front (forward) direction of the RFID tag communication device 10. Furthermore, the front direction of the RFID tag communication device 10 is assumed to be the direction of the antenna 25.

[0040] 1, the reader device 120 has a gripping unit 121 and a holding unit 122. The gripping unit 121 is a part that is held by an operator. The holding unit 122 is configured as a jig that holds the information terminal 28. The holding unit 122 holds the information terminal 28 so that the display screen of the display 114 faces the operator holding the gripping unit 121. The operator holds the gripping unit 121 and operates the RFID tag communication device 10 with the information terminal 28 set in the holding unit 122.

[0041] The radio-frequency tag communication device 10 continuously reads RFID tags while being operated by an operator. For example, the operator holding the grip 121 changes the position of the radio-frequency tag communication device 10 (the position of the device itself) and the orientation of the antenna 25. The radio-frequency tag communication device 10 repeatedly reads RFID tags while estimating the direction in which the RFID tag is present (the tag orientation) and the position of the device itself.

[0042] The radio tag communication device 10 estimates the direction in which the RFID tag exists (tag direction) from the RFID tag read result. For example, the radio tag communication device 10 estimates the direction (antenna direction) in which the RSSI value is maximum in the read result of reading a specific RFID tag as the tag direction in which the RFID tag exists. The radio tag communication device 10 may also estimate the median value of the range of directions (antenna direction) in which the specific RFID tag was read as the tag direction in which the RFID tag exists.

[0043] The RFID tag communication device 10 estimates its own position using a self-estimation technique. In this embodiment, the RFID tag communication device 10 estimates its own position using a spatial recognition technique based on an image captured by the camera 29 and information detected by the sensor 23. For example, the RFID tag communication device 10 estimates its own position (the position of its own device) using a self-position estimation technique used in AR (augmented reality) technology. However, the technique and configuration used by the RFID tag communication device 10 to estimate its own position are not limited to a specific one as long as it can estimate its own position even indoors.

[0044] The radio tag communication device 10 reads the RFID tag set as the search target and stores the read result in the memory 22. When the radio tag communication device 10 receives a response signal from a specific RFID tag, it stores information such as tag information, tag direction, the position of the radio tag communication device 10, RSSI value, and phase value as the read result.

[0045] The radio-frequency tag communication device 10 estimates the tag direction of the RFID tag to be searched for and also estimates the location of the device itself. The radio-frequency tag communication device 10 estimates the location of the RFID tag to be searched for based on the estimated tag direction and the location of the device itself. For example, the radio-frequency tag communication device 10 calculates the location of the RFID tag (the detected location of the tag) based on changes in the location of the device itself and the tag direction estimated at each location. As a specific example, the radio-frequency tag communication device 10 estimates the location of the RFID tag using triangulation technology from the tag direction estimated at a first location and the tag direction estimated at a second location.

[0046] The wireless tag communication device 10 displays an image indicating the estimated position of the RFID tag on the display 114. The wireless tag communication device 10 calculates the position (detected position of the tag) of the RFID tag to be searched for in the image (first image) captured by the camera 29. The wireless tag communication device 10 displays on the display 114 the image (first image) captured by the camera 29 and a second image indicating the detected position of the tag in the first image.

[0047] The second image is a mask image that masks an area other than the specified area based on the tag detection position, or a mark image that indicates the detection position. For example, the wireless tag communication device 10 generates a mask image as a second image that indicates the tag detection position according to the brightness or illuminance measured by the sensor 31. The wireless tag communication device 10 also generates a second image such as a mark image or a guide image that indicates the tag detection position using a color that corresponds to the color information of the image captured by the camera 29. The wireless tag communication device 10 may also select the second image that indicates the tag detection position from a plurality of patterns of mark images according to the color information of the image captured by the camera 29.

[0048] Hereinafter, display examples (first, second and third display examples) of the guide screen when the second image is a mask image that masks an area other than the explicit area will be described. The mask image as the second image is generated by masking an area (mask area) other than the explicit area with a mask density corresponding to the brightness (or illuminance) in the first image. The masking process for masking the mask area is image processing that processes the mask area into a semi-transparent image with a mask density (transparency) set according to the brightness of the first image. The masking process may also be image processing that processes the mask area to blur with a mask density set according to the brightness of the first image. The masking process may also be image processing that masks the mask area so that a bright gradation is created around the tag detection position.

[0049] The mask density is set according to the luminance or illuminance in the first image, which is the sensor value detected by the sensor 31. For example, the mask density is set based on the average or maximum value of the luminance in the entire first image measured by the sensor 31. The mask density may also be set based on the average or maximum value of the luminance in a mask area in the first image. The mask density may also be set based on the average or maximum value of the luminance in a predetermined area (a guidance display area) in the first image.

[0050] Next, a first display example of the guidance screen displayed on the display 114 by the RFID tag communication device 10 according to the embodiment will be described. 3, 4 and 5 are diagrams showing a first display example of a guidance screen that the RFID tag communication device 10 displays on the display 114. FIG. 3 is a first display example of a guidance screen displayed by the display 114 when the search target RFID tag T is detected (read). In the first display example shown in FIG. 3, the read range of the RFID tag T in the image (first image) captured by the camera 29 is set as the explicit area. In the first display example shown in FIG. 3, a mask image (second image) obtained by masking the area outside the read range as a mask area is displayed superimposed on the first image. The mask density (transparency) of the mask image as the second image shown in FIG. 3 is set according to the brightness measured by the sensor 31.

[0051] Furthermore, on the guidance screen of the first display example shown in Fig. 3-5, a text message MEA is displayed informing the user that the RFID tag T to be searched for has been detected (read). In the first display example, the text message MEA is a guidance notifying the user that the RFID tag T (of the product) to be searched for has been found within the range of the first image. In the first display example, the text message MEA is displayed in a predetermined area (guide display area) set in the upper area of ​​the first image.

[0052] Fig. 4 is a first display example of a guidance screen that is displayed when the direction (tag direction) in which the RFID tag T to be searched exists is narrowed down. In the first display example shown in Fig. 4, an explicit region that includes the estimated tag direction in the image captured by the camera 29 is set, and the other region is displayed as a masked region to display an image (second image) that has been processed. In other words, when the RFID tag communication device 10 narrows down the tag direction, the display 114 narrows the explicit region and displays (updates) a guidance screen in which the masked region is enlarged. This makes it easier for the operator to intuitively recognize the region in which the tag direction has been narrowed down.

[0053] Fig. 5 is a first display example of a guidance screen that is displayed when the shooting direction of camera 29 changes. Fig. 5 shows an example of a guidance screen transitioned from the guidance screen shown in Fig. 4 when the shooting direction of camera 29 changes. On the guidance screen, processor 21 displays, as a first image, an image that camera 29 shoots at a predetermined frame rate. Therefore, when the shooting direction of camera 29 changes left or right by an operation by the operator, the first image (image shot by camera 29) displayed on the guidance screen changes.

[0054] When the first image whose shooting direction has changed is displayed (updated) on the guidance screen, the tag position on the guidance screen also changes. Therefore, processor 21 updates the mask area displayed as the second image on display 114 in accordance with the change in the shooting direction of camera 29.

[0055] For example, if the shooting direction of camera 29 changes left or right, the tag direction relative to the antenna orientation also changes left or right. Processor 21 changes the explicit indication area and mask area on the guidance screen based on the relative position of the tag, which changes following the change in the shooting direction of camera 29. According to this first display example, by changing the mask area following the change in the shooting direction of camera 29, the explicit indication area including the tag direction can be displayed in an easy-to-visually recognize manner.

[0056] Next, a second display example of the guidance screen displayed on the display 114 by the RFID tag communication device 10 according to the embodiment will be described. 6, 7 and 8 are diagrams showing a second example of the guidance screen displayed on the display 114 by the RFID tag communication device 10. FIG. The second display example is an example of a guidance screen in which the explicit indication area changes based on the position where the RFID tag T is present in the image captured by the camera 29. The second display example is an example in which the second image is displayed so that the explicit indication area becomes larger as the distance to the RFID tag T becomes closer. In the second display example, the second image is generated by image processing (mask processing) on ​​the mask area as described above.

[0057] 6-8, a text message MEA is displayed on the guidance screen of the second display example, informing the user that the RFID tag T to be searched for has been detected (read). Similar to the first display example, the text message MEA of the second display example notifies the user that the RFID tag T (of the product) to be searched for has been found within the range of the first image. The text message MEA of the second display example is also displayed in a predetermined area (guide display area) set in the upper area of ​​the first image.

[0058] Fig. 6 is a second display example of the guidance screen displayed by the display 114 when the distance to the position of the RFID tag T to be searched for is a first distance. Fig. 7 is a second display example of the guidance screen displayed by the display 114 when the distance to the position of the RFID tag T to be searched for is a second distance that is closer than the first distance. Fig. 8 is a second display example of the guidance screen displayed by the display 114 when the distance to the position of the RFID tag T to be searched for is a third distance that is closer than the second distance.

[0059] On the guidance screen shown in FIG. 6, an explicit area is set in the image captured by the camera 29 with the position (estimated position) of the RFID tag as the base point, and with a first size according to the first distance. 7, the indication area based on the position of the RFID tag in the image captured by camera 29 is set to a second size corresponding to the second distance. In the second display example, the second size corresponding to the second distance is larger than the first size corresponding to the first distance.

[0060] Furthermore, the first image displayed on the guidance screen shown in Fig. 7 is an enlarged image compared to the first image displayed on the guidance screen shown in Fig. 6. This is because the distance between the camera 29 and the RFID tag is closer when the guidance screen shown in Fig. 7 is displayed than when the guidance screen shown in Fig. 6 is displayed. Therefore, on the guidance screen shown in Fig. 7, an image (first image) of the periphery of the RFID tag T in the explicit area based on the RFID tag is displayed in an enlarged state compared to the guidance screen shown in Fig. 6.

[0061] On the guidance screen shown in Fig. 8, the specified area, which is based on the position of the RFID tag T in the image captured by the camera 29, is set to a third size corresponding to a third distance. In the second display example, the third size corresponding to the third distance is larger than the second size corresponding to the second distance. Furthermore, the image (first image) in the specified area displayed on the guidance screen shown in Fig. 8 is displayed as an enlarged image compared to the image in the specified area displayed on the guidance screen shown in Fig. 7.

[0062] In the second display example shown in Figure 6-8, the closer the operator holding the wireless tag communication device gets to the target RFID tag T, the larger the displayed area around the RFID tag T. This allows the operator to move while reliably checking the area around the target RFID tag T as he or she approaches the target RFID tag T. As a result, even if the operator is not familiar with operating the device, it becomes easier for the operator to find the target RFID tag T.

[0063] Next, a third display example of the guidance screen displayed on the display 114 by the RFID tag communication device 10 according to the embodiment will be described. 9, 10 and 11 are diagrams showing a third example of the guidance screen displayed on the display 114 by the RFID tag communication device 10. FIG. The third display example is another example of a guidance screen in which the explicit indication area changes based on the position where the RFID tag T is present in the image captured by the camera 29. The third display example is an example in which the second image is displayed so that the explicit indication area becomes smaller as the distance to the RFID tag T becomes closer. In the third display example, the second image is generated by image processing (mask processing) on ​​the mask area as described above.

[0064] 9-11 also displays text informing users that the RFID tag T to be searched has been detected (read). The guidance displayed in the third display example is displayed in a predetermined area (guidance display area) set in the upper area of ​​the first image.

[0065] 9-11 also displays a text message MEA informing the user that the RFID tag T to be searched for has been detected (read). Similar to the first display example, the text message MEA in the third display example notifies the user that the RFID tag T (of the product) to be searched for has been found within the range of the first image. The text message MEA in the third display example is also displayed in a predetermined area (the area for displaying the text) set in the upper area of ​​the first image.

[0066] Fig. 9 is a third display example of the guidance screen displayed by the display 114 when the distance to the position of the RFID tag T to be searched for is a first distance. Fig. 10 is a third display example of the guidance screen displayed by the display 114 when the distance to the position of the RFID tag T to be searched for is a second distance that is closer than the first distance. Fig. 11 is a third display example of the guidance screen displayed by the display 114 when the distance to the position of the RFID tag T to be searched for is a third distance that is closer than the second distance.

[0067] On the guidance screen shown in FIG. 9, an indication area is set in the image captured by the camera 29 with the position (estimated position) of the RFID tag T as the base point, and with a first size according to the first distance. 10, the display area based on the position of the RFID tag T in the image captured by the camera 29 is set to a second size corresponding to the second distance. In the third display example, the second size corresponding to the second distance is set smaller than the first size corresponding to the first distance.

[0068] The first image displayed on the guidance screen shown in Fig. 10 is an enlarged image compared to the first image displayed on the guidance screen shown in Fig. 9. This is because the distance between the camera 29 and the RFID tag T is closer when the guidance screen shown in Fig. 10 is displayed than when the guidance screen shown in Fig. 9 is displayed. Therefore, on the guidance screen shown in Fig. 10, an image (first image) of the periphery of the RFID tag T is displayed in an indication area of ​​a second size smaller than the first size, in a state enlarged compared to the guidance screen shown in Fig. 9.

[0069] 11, an indication area based on the position of RFID tag T in the image captured by camera 29 is set to a third size corresponding to a third distance. In the third display example, the third size corresponding to the third distance is smaller than the second size corresponding to the second distance. Also, on the indication screen shown in FIG. 11, an image that is larger than the indication area displayed on the indication screen shown in FIG. 10 is displayed in an indication area that is set smaller than the indication area displayed on the indication screen shown in FIG.

[0070] In the third display example shown in Figures 9-11, the closer the operator holding the wireless tag communication device gets to the target RFID tag T, the smaller the displayed area around the RFID tag T. This makes it easier for the operator to pinpoint and visually identify the target RFID tag T the closer he or she gets to the target RFID tag T. As a result, the operator can move while intuitively narrowing down the location of the RFID tag T using the guide image, making it easier for the operator to find the target RFID tag T even if he or she is not familiar with operating the device.

[0071] Although the indication area is set as a circular area on the guidance screen of the second display example shown in Figures 6, 7, and 8, the shape of the indication area is not limited to a specific shape. For example, the indication area on the guidance screen of the second display example shown in Figures 6, 7, and 8 may be set as a rectangle, a polygon, or the like. Furthermore, although the indication area is set as a rectangular area on the guidance screens shown in Figures 9, 10, and 11, the shape of the indication area is not limited to a specific shape. For example, the indication area on the guidance screen of the third display example shown in Figures 9, 10, and 11 may be set as a circle or other shape.

[0072] Next, a first operation example will be described in which the RFID tag communication device 10 according to the embodiment displays a guide screen including a second image as a mask image as shown in the first, second, and third display examples. FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining a first operation example of the radio tag communication device 10 according to the embodiment. The processor 21 of the RFID tag communication device 10 operates in a search mode in response to an operation by an operator. In the search mode, the processor 21 accepts the setting of an RFID tag to be searched for by the operator (ACT11). The operator uses the input device 115 or the like to specify information indicating the RFID tag to be searched for. The processor 21 sets the RFID tag to be searched for in accordance with the specification by the operator.

[0073] The processor 21 also receives various setting instructions for reading the RFID tag to be searched. The operator specifies the operation settings for reading the RFID tag using the input device 115 or the like, and the processor 21 performs the operation settings for reading the RFID tag in accordance with the operator's specifications (ACT12).

[0074] The processor 21 of the radio tag communication device 10 selects the RFID tag to be searched and sets the operation, and then receives an instruction from the operator to start the search. In response to the instruction from the operator to start the search, the processor 21 of the radio tag communication device 10 starts operation in the search mode (search processing).

[0075] While operating in the search mode, processor 21 displays an image (first image) captured by camera 29 on display 114 (ACT13). For example, processor 21 displays an image to be displayed that is captured by camera 29 at a predetermined frame rate on display 114. Processor 21 causes display 114 to display the image (first image) captured by camera 29 as a background image on a guidance screen.

[0076] Furthermore, the processor 21 of the RFID tag communication device 10 executes an RFID tag reading process in response to an instruction from the operator to start a search (ACT14). For example, the processor 21 acquires responses from each RFID tag within the reading range (communication range) of the communication control circuit 24 and the antenna 25. The processor 21 determines whether the response received from each RFID tag is a response from the RFID tag to be searched for (ACT15). The processor 21 determines whether a response has been received from the RFID tag to be searched for, based on the responses received from each RFID tag (ACT15). If the RFID tag to be searched for has not been read (ACT15, NO), the processor 21 returns to ACT14 and repeatedly executes RFID tag reading.

[0077] If the RFID tag to be searched for is read (ACT15, YES), the processor 21 starts a process of estimating the tag position and a process of displaying a second image according to the tag position. The RFID tag communication device 10 according to this embodiment estimates the position of the RFID tag to be searched for based on the tag orientation and the position of the device itself.

[0078] The processor 21 estimates the tag direction as the direction in which the RFID tag to be searched for is located (ACT16). For example, the processor 21 estimates the direction in which the RFID tag to be searched for (tag direction) is located based on information such as the RSSI value and the phase value included in the RFID tag reading result. The processor 21 also stores the estimated tag direction in the memory 22.

[0079] The processor 21 also estimates the current position of the wireless tag communication device as the position of the device itself (ACT17). For example, the processor 21 uses spatial recognition technology to estimate the position of the device itself from an image captured by the camera 29 and the detection result of the sensor 23. The processor 21 also stores the estimated position of the device itself in the memory 22 in association with the estimated tag direction.

[0080] After estimating the tag orientation and the position of the own device, the processor 21 estimates the tag position as the position (detection position) where the RFID tag to be searched exists (ACT18). The processor 21 estimates the position (detection position) where the RFID tag exists based on the estimated tag orientation and the position of the own device. For example, the processor 21 calculates the detection position based on a plurality of positions (estimated positions) of the own device obtained in time series and the tag orientation at each estimated position.

[0081] The processor 21 sets an indication area including the detection position as the position where the RFID tag to be searched for is located based on the estimation result of the tag position (ACT19). That is, the processor 21 identifies the position where the RFID tag to be searched for is estimated to be located (the detection position of the tag) in the image (the first image) captured by the camera 29. Here, the processor 21 determines the size, shape, etc. of the indication area having the detection position of the tag in the first image as the base point. For example, the processor 21 may determine the size, shape, etc. of the indication area according to the distance (estimated distance) between the position of the device itself and the RFID tag to be searched for. In this way, the processor 21 sets an indication area having the detection position of the tag identified in the first image as the base point.

[0082] After setting an explicit region indicating the detected position of the tag, processor 21 measures the brightness or illuminance in the first image using sensor 31 (ST19). Processor 21 determines the density (mask density) for masking the region other than the explicit region based on the brightness or illuminance as a sensor value measured by sensor 31 (ST20). In the first operation example, the second image is a mask image that masks the region other than the explicit region with a mask density (transparency) according to the brightness in the first image, as shown in FIG. 3-11.

[0083] For example, processor 21 measures the luminance (average value or maximum value) of the entire first image. When measuring the luminance of the entire first image, processor 21 sets a mask density according to the luminance of the entire first image. In this case, processor 21 can generate a second image in which the mask area is masked with an easy-to-see mask density according to the luminance of the entire first image.

[0084] Processor 21 may also measure the luminance (average value or maximum value) of a region other than the explicit region (a region to be masked) in the first image. When measuring the luminance of the region other than the explicit region in the first image, processor 21 sets the mask density according to the luminance of the region other than the explicit region in the first image. In this case, processor 21 can generate a second image masked with a mask density that makes the region other than the explicit region easier to see.

[0085] Processor 21 may also measure the luminance (average value or maximum value) of a predetermined area in the first image. When measuring the luminance of a predetermined area in the first image, processor 21 sets a mask density according to the luminance of the predetermined area (a guidance display area) in the first image. For example, processor 21 measures the luminance of a guidance display area on the first image where guidance is displayed using characters or images. When measuring the luminance of a predetermined area, processor 21 sets a mask density according to the luminance of the predetermined area. In this case, processor 21 can generate a second image masked with a mask density that makes it easier to see information displayed in a predetermined area, such as a guidance display area.

[0086] After setting the mask density, processor 21 causes display 114 to display a first image and a second image indicating the specified area (detection position) in the first image (ACT20). For example, processor 21 generates a second image in which an area other than the specified area is masked with a mask density set according to the brightness measured by sensor 31. Processor 21 updates the guidance screen displayed on display 114 by superimposing the second image on an image (first image) captured by camera 29. For example, processor 21 displays the image (first image) captured by camera 29 on display 114 in real time. Processor 21 superimposes the second image on the first image in which an area other than the specified area in the first image is masked with a mask density set according to the brightness of the first image.

[0087] After updating the guidance screen displayed on the display 114, the processor 21 executes the reading process again to read the RFID tag to be searched (ACT23). Here, if an instruction to end or stop the search process is received (ACT24, YES), the processor 21 ends the series of search processes.

[0088] When the RFID tag is read, if there is no instruction to end the search (ACT24, NO), the processor 21 proceeds to ACT16 and repeats the above-mentioned process. The processor 21 repeatedly estimates the tag position and repeats the process of displaying a guide screen in which the area other than the specified area indicating the detected tag position is masked with a mask density according to the brightness. As a result, the display 114 displays a first image captured by the camera and a second image in which the specified area indicates the tag position that is updated as the device moves.

[0089] As described above, in the first operation example, the processor of the RFID tag communication device calculates the detected position of the tag to be searched for using the direction of the target RFID tag and the detection result of the device's own position. The processor displays on the display a guide screen in which the area other than the explicit area indicating the detected position of the tag in the image captured by the camera is masked with a mask density according to the brightness. According to the first operation example, the RFID tag communication device can display a guide screen in which the masked image area is easy to see and the position of the RFID tag to be searched for is easy to intuitively understand.

[0090] In the first operation example, the processor of the radio-frequency tag communication device changes the size of the setting of the indication area indicating the detected position of the tag according to the distance between the position of the device itself and the target radio-frequency tag. According to the first operation example, the radio-frequency tag communication device can intuitively and easily guide the relative distance to the position of the RFID tag to be searched for on a guidance screen masked with an easy-to-see density.

[0091] Hereinafter, a display example will be described in which a guide screen including a second image such as a mark image indicating the detected position of a tag or an operation guide image is displayed. For example, the mark image as the second image may be an image that indicates the position of the RFID tag to be searched for (the detected position of the tag) in the image captured by the camera 29. In this embodiment, the mark image as the second image is displayed in a color that is easy to see even when it is displayed superimposed on the image captured by the camera 29. That is, the RFID tag communication device 10 displays the mark image as the second image on the display 114 in a color that is set according to the color information of the image captured by the camera 29. For example, the mark image as the second image is generated in a color that is set according to the color information of the image captured by the camera 29. Furthermore, the mark image as the second image may be selected from a plurality of patterns of mark images stored in advance according to the color information of the image captured by the camera 29.

[0092] Furthermore, like the mark image described above, the operation guide image as the second image is displayed in a color that is easy to see even when it is displayed superimposed on the image (first image) captured by the camera 29. That is, the wireless tag communication device 10 may display the operation guide image as the second image on the display 114 in a color that is set according to the color information of the image captured by the camera 29.

[0093] Next, a fourth display example of the guidance screen displayed on the display 114 by the RFID tag communication device 10 according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a fourth display example in which the RFID tag communication device 10 displays on the display 114 a guide screen including an operation guide image as a second image. The fourth display example shown in Fig. 13 is an example of a guidance screen that displays an operation guide image (operation guide image IMB and text message MEB) as a second image on an image (first image) captured by camera 29. In the example shown in Fig. 13, the operation guide image IMB displays an image for urging the user to change the orientation of the radio tag communication device 10. The text message MEB notifies the user of operation guide for the radio tag communication device 10 in text.

[0094] The colors of the operation guide image IMB and the text message MEB are set based on the color information of the first image. For example, the memory 22 stores image data for displaying the operation guide image IMB and the text message MEB as a second image to be displayed superimposed on the first image. The RFID tag communication device 10 displays the operation guide image IMB and the text message MEB stored in the memory 22 on the display 114 in colors based on the color information of the first image.

[0095] The memory 22 may also store a plurality of patterns of display components (image data) that can be displayed as the operation guide image IMB and the text message MEB. The plurality of patterns of display components may be, for example, image data of an operation guide image made up of a plurality of colors and image data of a text message made up of a plurality of colors. The RFID tag communication device 10 may select a display component to be displayed as the operation guide image IMB or the text message MEB according to color information in the first image.

[0096] Furthermore, the RFID tag communication device 10 may divide the first image into a plurality of regions and generate (or select) a second image of a color corresponding to the color information of each divided region. For example, the RFID tag communication device 10 divides the first image into three regions Ra, Rb, and Rc as shown in Fig. 13. In the example shown in Fig. 13, the region Ra is a region where a text message MEB is displayed, and the region Rb is a region where an operation guide image IMB is displayed.

[0097] 13, the RFID tag communication device 10 generates (selects) the text message MEB in a color corresponding to the color information of the area Ra in the first image. This allows the RFID tag communication device 10 to display the text message MEB as the second image in a color that is easy to see on the first image. 13, the RFID tag communication device generates (selects) the operation guide image IMB in a color according to the color information of the area Rb in the first image, thereby enabling the RFID tag communication device to display the operation guide image IMB as the second image in a color that is easy to see on the first image.

[0098] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a fifth display example in which the RFID tag communication device 10 displays on the display 114 a guide screen including a mark image as a second image. The fifth display example shown in Fig. 14 is an example of a guidance screen in which a mark image IMC and a text message MEC are displayed superimposed on the first image. In the example shown in Fig. 14, the mark image IMC is an image indicating the detected position of the tag in the first image. The text message MEC provides a text notification indicating that a product with an RFID tag attached to it that is the search target has been detected.

[0099] The mark image IMC and the text message MEC are displayed in colors set based on the color information in the first image. For example, the memory 22 stores image data for displaying the mark image IMC and the text message MEC as a second image to be displayed superimposed on the first image. The RFID tag communication device 10 displays the mark image IMC and the text message MEC stored in the memory 22 on the display 114 in colors based on the color information in the first image.

[0100] The memory 22 may also store a plurality of patterns of display components (image data) that can be displayed as the mark image IMC and the text message MEC. The plurality of patterns of display components may be, for example, image data of a mark image made up of a plurality of colors and image data of a text message made up of a plurality of colors. The RFID tag communication device 10 may select the image data to be displayed as the mark image IMC and the text message MEC according to the color information in the first image.

[0101] Furthermore, the RFID tag communication device 10 may generate (or select) a second image of a color corresponding to the color information of the first image for each of the areas Ra, Rb, and Rc shown in Fig. 14. In the example shown in Fig. 14, the area Ra is an area where a text message MEC is displayed, and the area Rb is an area where a mark image IMC is displayed.

[0102] 14, the RFID tag communication device 10 generates (selects) the text message MEC in a color according to the color information of the area Ra in the first image. This allows the RFID tag communication device 10 to display the text message MEC as the second image in a color that is easy to see on the first image. 14, the device 10 for communicating with a radio tag generates (selects) a mark image IMC indicating the detected position of the tag in a color corresponding to the color information of the region Rb in the first image. This allows the device 10 for communicating with a radio tag to display the mark image IMC as the second image in a color that is easily visible on the first image.

[0103] Next, a second operation example will be described in which the RFID tag communication device 10 according to the embodiment displays a guide screen including a second image as shown in the fourth and fifth display examples. FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining a second operation example of the radio tag communication device 10 according to the embodiment. The processor 21 of the RFID tag communication device 10 operates in search mode in response to an operation by an operator. In search mode, the processor 21 accepts setting of an RFID tag to be searched for by the operator (ACT31). The operator uses the input device 115 or the like to specify information indicating the RFID tag to be searched for. The processor 21 sets the RFID tag to be searched for in accordance with the operator's specification.

[0104] The processor 21 also receives various setting instructions for reading the RFID tag to be searched. The operator specifies the operation settings for reading the RFID tag using the input device 115 or the like, and the processor 21 performs the operation settings for reading the RFID tag in accordance with the operator's specifications (ACT32).

[0105] The processor 21 of the radio tag communication device 10 selects the RFID tag to be searched and sets the operation, and then receives an instruction from the operator to start the search. In response to the instruction from the operator to start the search, the processor 21 of the radio tag communication device 10 starts operation in the search mode (search processing).

[0106] While operating in the search mode, processor 21 displays an image (first image) captured by camera 29 on display 114 (ACT33). For example, processor 21 displays an image to be displayed that is captured by camera 29 at a predetermined frame rate on display 114. Processor 21 causes display 114 to display the image (first image) captured by camera 29 as a background image on a guidance screen.

[0107] In addition, the processor 21 of the radio tag communication device 10 executes a process of reading an RFID tag in response to an instruction from the operator to start a search (ACT 34). For example, the processor 21 receives a response from each RFID tag within the reading range (communication range) of the communication control circuit 24 and the antenna 25.

[0108] Furthermore, when processor 21 of wireless tag communication device 10 starts reading the RFID tag, it analyzes color information in the image (first image) captured by camera 29 (ACT 35). Processor 21 sets the color of a second image, such as a text message or an operation guide image, to be displayed on the first image based on the color information in the first image (ACT 36). After setting the color of the second image, processor 21 displays a guide screen on display 114 in which the second image in the set color is superimposed on the first image (ACT 37).

[0109] For example, processor 21 divides the first image into predetermined regions and acquires color information for each divided region. Processor 21 displays a second image such as a text message or an operation guide image in a color set according to the color information for each region. Processor 21 may calculate lightness as color information for the first image.

[0110] Furthermore, the area for analyzing the color may be set according to the display position of the second image displayed superimposed on the first image. For example, when displaying the guidance screen shown in Fig. 13, the processor 21 sets an area that separates the display area of ​​the text message MEB from the display area of ​​the operation guide image IMB. In this case, the processor 21 can display the text message in a color that corresponds to the color information in the display area of ​​the text message MEB. Furthermore, the processor 21 can display the operation guidance screen in a color that corresponds to the color information in the display area of ​​the operation guide image IMB.

[0111] After starting to read the RFID tags, the processor 21 determines whether the response received from each RFID tag is a response from the RFID tag to be searched for (ACT 38). The processor 21 determines whether a response has been received from the RFID tag to be searched for, from the responses received from each RFID tag (ACT 38). If the RFID tag to be searched for has not been read (ACT 38, NO), the processor 21 returns to ACT 34 and repeatedly reads the RFID tag.

[0112] If the RFID tag to be searched for has been read (ACT38, YES), the processor 21 starts a process of estimating the tag position and a process of displaying a second image showing the tag position. The RFID tag communication device 10 according to this embodiment estimates the position of the RFID tag to be searched for based on the tag orientation and the position of the device itself.

[0113] The processor 21 estimates the tag direction as the direction in which the RFID tag to be searched for is located (ACT 39). For example, the processor 21 estimates the direction in which the RFID tag to be searched for (tag direction) is located based on information such as the RSSI value and phase value included in the RFID tag reading result. The processor 21 also stores the estimated tag direction in the memory 22.

[0114] The processor 21 also estimates the current position of the wireless tag communication device as the position of the device itself (ACT40). For example, the processor 21 uses spatial recognition technology to estimate the position of the device itself from an image captured by the camera 29 and the detection result of the sensor 23. The processor 21 also stores the estimated position of the device itself in the memory 22 in association with the estimated tag direction.

[0115] After estimating the tag orientation and the position of the own device, the processor 21 estimates the tag position as the position where the RFID tag to be searched exists (ACT41). The processor 21 estimates the position where the RFID tag exists (the detected position of the tag) based on the estimated tag orientation and the position of the own device. For example, the processor 21 calculates the detected position of the tag based on a plurality of positions (estimated positions) of the own device obtained in time series and the tag orientation at each estimated position.

[0116] After estimating the tag position, processor 21 analyzes color information in the image (first image) captured by camera 29 (ACT42). Processor 21 sets the color of a second image, such as a mark image and a text message, to be displayed on the first image based on the color information in the first image (ACT43). After setting the color of the second image, processor 21 displays a guide screen on display 114 in which the second image in the set color is superimposed on the first image (ACT44).

[0117] Here, the processor 21 of the RFID tag communication device 10 may divide the first image into predetermined regions and acquire color information for each divided region. The divided regions may also be set according to the display position of the second image to be displayed superimposed on the first image. That is, the processor 21 displays the second image, such as a mark image and a text message, in a color according to the color information for each region in the first image.

[0118] For example, when displaying the guidance screen shown in FIG. 14, the processor 21 sets an area that separates the display area of ​​the text message MEC from the display area of ​​the mark image IMC. The processor 21 sets a color for displaying the text message MEC according to color information of the display area of ​​the text message MEC in the first image. This allows the processor 21 to display the mark image IMC, which indicates the detection position of the tag and is displayed superimposed on the first image, in an easy-to-see color. The processor 21 also sets a color for displaying the mark image IMC according to color information of the display area of ​​the mark image IMC in the first image. This allows the processor 21 to display the mark image, which indicates the detection position of the tag and is displayed superimposed on the first image, in an easy-to-see color.

[0119] After updating the guidance screen displayed on the display 114, the processor 21 executes the reading process again to read the RFID tag to be searched (ACT45). Here, if there is an instruction to end or stop the search process (ACT46, YES), the processor 21 ends the series of RFID tag search processes.

[0120] Furthermore, if there is no instruction to end the search for RFID tags (ACT46, NO), processor 21 proceeds to ACT39 and repeats the above-mentioned process. Processor 21 repeatedly estimates the tag position and repeats the process of displaying a guide screen in which areas other than the explicit area indicating the detected tag position are masked with a mask density according to the brightness. As a result, display 114 displays a first image captured by the camera and a second image such as a mark image indicating the tag position that is updated as the device moves.

[0121] As described above, in the second operation example, the processor of the wireless tag communication device searches for a target RFID tag within the camera's shooting range. During the tag search, the processor 21 displays a second image, such as an operation guide, on the display device in a color corresponding to the color information of the first image captured by the camera. This allows the wireless tag communication device to display a guide screen that makes it easy to see the operation guide for searching for a tag.

[0122] In a second operation example, the processor of the wireless tag communication device calculates the detected position of the tag using the direction of the tag to be searched for and the detection result of the device's own position. The processor displays on the display a second image, such as a mark image indicating the detected position of the tag, on a first image captured by the camera in a color corresponding to the color information in the first image. This allows the wireless tag communication device to display a guidance screen that makes it easy to see guidance such as the detected position of the tag and makes it easy to intuitively understand the position of the tag to be searched for.

[0123] In the above-described embodiment, the program executed by the processor is pre-stored in the memory of the device. However, the program executed by the processor may be downloaded to the device from a network or installed to the device from a storage medium. The storage medium may be any storage medium that can store the program, such as a CD-ROM, and is readable by the device. Furthermore, the function obtained by pre-installation or download may be realized in cooperation with the OS (operating system) or the like within the device.

[0124] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. The following additionally describes the contents of the claims as originally filed in this application. [1] In the wireless tag communication device, a directional antenna; a communication control circuit that communicates with the wireless tag via the antenna; a camera that captures a first image whose shooting direction coincides with the direction in which the directivity of the antenna is maximized; a sensor for detecting brightness in a first image captured by the camera; a processor that calculates the detection position of the wireless tag to be searched for in the first image, and displays on a display the first image and a second image in which an area other than a specified area based on the detection position of the wireless tag is masked with a mask density corresponding to the sensor value detected by the sensor in the first image; A radio tag communication device having the same. [2] the processor calculates the distance between the wireless tag to be searched and the position of the wireless tag communication device, and changes the size of the specified area in accordance with the calculated distance; The radio tag communication device according to [1]. [3] In the wireless tag communication device, a directional antenna; a communication control circuit that communicates with the wireless tag via the antenna; a camera that captures a first image whose shooting direction coincides with the direction in which the directivity of the antenna is maximized; a processor that sets the color of a second image to be displayed superimposed on a first image captured by the camera based on color information of the first image, and displays the first image and the second image having the color set according to the color information of the first image superimposed on a display; A radio tag communication device having the same. [4] the processor calculates a detection position of the wireless tag to be searched in the first image, and displays a second image showing the detection position of the wireless tag on a display device in a color set based on the color information of the first image. The radio tag communication device according to [3]. [5] the processor divides the first image into a plurality of regions, and sets a color of the second image based on color information in the image of each divided region; A radio tag communication device according to any one of [3] and [4]. [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 10...wireless tag communication device, 21...processor, 22...memory, 23...sensor, 24...communication control circuit, 25...antenna, 28...information terminal, 29...camera, 31...sensor, 114...display, 115...input device

Claims

1. In the wireless tag communication device, a directional antenna; a communication control circuit that communicates with the wireless tag via the antenna; a camera that captures a first image whose photographing direction coincides with a direction in which the directivity of the antenna is maximized; a sensor for detecting brightness in a first image captured by the camera; a processor that calculates the detection position of a wireless tag to be searched for in the first image, and displays on a display the first image and a second image in which an area other than a specified area based on the detection position of the wireless tag is masked with a mask density corresponding to the sensor value detected by the sensor; A radio tag communication device having the same.

2. the processor calculates the distance between the wireless tag to be searched and the position of the wireless tag communication device, and changes the size of the specified area in accordance with the calculated distance; The radio tag communication device according to claim 1 .

3. In the wireless tag communication device, a directional antenna; a communication control circuit that communicates with the wireless tag via the antenna; a camera that captures a first image whose photographing direction coincides with a direction in which the directivity of the antenna is maximized; a processor that sets the color of a second image to be displayed superimposed on the first image based on color information of the first image captured by the camera, and displays the first image and an operation guide image as a second image having a color set in accordance with the color information of the first image superimposed on a display; A radio tag communication device having the same.

4. when the processor calculates the detection position of the wireless tag to be searched in the first image, the processor displays an image showing the detection position of the wireless tag as a second image on a display device in a color set based on the color information of the first image. The radio tag communication device according to claim 3 .

5. the processor divides the first image into a plurality of regions, and sets a color of the second image based on color information in the image of each divided region; 5. The radio tag communication device according to claim 3 or 4.

Images