Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To perform a smooth transaction process.SOLUTION: An information processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a payment unit that performs payment processing based on information about a registered product or service, and a control unit that controls movement of the apparatus to a destination in or near an uncrowded location.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a system in which a portable POS (Point Of Sales) register is used to scan barcodes of samples on display shelves and transmits the information to a checkout machine via far infrared rays. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-247286 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the system described in Patent Document 1, the payment machine is installed at a payment location, which limits the places where payment can be processed. This can make it difficult to process payments smoothly, for example, in large stores or crowded stores.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to provide an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program that enable smooth accounting processing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, an information processing device is provided that includes a payment unit that performs payment processing based on information about registered products or services, and a control unit that controls the movement of the device to a destination such as an uncrowded location or its vicinity.

[0007] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information processing method comprising the steps of: performing payment processing based on information on registered products or services; and controlling the movement of the device to a destination of an uncrowded location or its vicinity.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a program for causing a computer to execute an information processing method in an information processing device, the program comprising the steps of: performing payment processing based on information on registered products or services; and controlling the movement of the device to a destination of an uncrowded location or its vicinity. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to carry out accounting procedures smoothly. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a POS system using an autonomously mobile POS device (information processing device) according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is an external view showing an example of an autonomous mobile POS device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an autonomous mobile POS device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a transaction process using the autonomous mobile POS device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of processing using the autonomous mobile POS device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a transaction process using an autonomous mobile POS device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a transaction process using an autonomous mobile POS device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an information processing device according to a fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] (First embodiment) A first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a POS system (point-of-sale information management system) using an autonomous mobile POS device 10 according to this embodiment. The POS system is a computer system installed in a store 18 that sells products or provides services, and is used, for example, in an apparel store, a service provider, etc. The POS system includes the autonomous mobile POS device 10, a POS terminal 11, a store server 12, a server 13, peripheral devices 14, a network camera 15, and an access point 16. The POS terminal 11, the store server 12, the network camera 15, and the access point 16 are connected to an in-store network 17, which is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network). Note that multiple stores 18 can be managed by the server 13.

[0013] The autonomous mobile POS device 10 autonomously moves and functions as a POS device that processes payments for goods or services. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 is charged, for example, in a waiting area 191 in the backroom 19 and waits in an autonomously mobile state. The autonomous mobile POS device 10, for example, detects a predetermined action of a store clerk and follows the clerk to the display area 21. This allows customers to make payments using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21, without being limited to the cash register area 20. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 can wirelessly communicate with an access point 16 in the store 18 via a wireless LAN connection such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), and can transmit and receive data with the POS terminal 11, the store server 12, and the network camera 15. The access point 16 is installed, for example, on the ceiling of the store 18, and may be installed in multiple locations depending on the size of the store 18. The number of autonomous mobile POS devices 10 is not particularly limited, and one or more autonomous mobile POS devices 10 can be installed in one store 18.

[0014] The POS terminal 11 is installed, for example, at a cash register counter in the cash register area 20, and processes the transaction for goods or services. The POS terminal 11 is configured, for example, as a dual-screen POS terminal equipped with an operator display and a customer display. There is no particular limit to the number of POS terminals 11, and one or more POS terminals 11 can be installed in one store 18.

[0015] The store server 12 is installed, for example, in the backyard 19, and manages information about products, inventory, sales, etc. The store server 12 has a database that stores product IDs that identify individual products, product names, prices, etc.

[0016] The server 13 is connected to the store server 12 via a network such as the Internet (not shown) and is managed, for example, by a headquarters that oversees each store. The server 13 compiles sales data from each store and manages it in a centralized manner.

[0017] The peripheral device 14 is connected to the POS terminal 11 and is, for example, a code scanner, a printer, a non-contact IC (Integrated Circuit) reader / writer, a cash drawer, and the like.

[0018] The network camera 15 is, for example, a surveillance camera installed on the ceiling of the display area 21, and acquires image information of the display area 21. The image information acquired by the network camera 15 is used, for example, in the autonomous mobile POS device 10 to calculate the distribution density of people in the display area 21.

[0019] 2 is an external view showing an example of an autonomous mobile POS device 10 according to this embodiment. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 includes a main unit 100, a display device 105, a distance measuring device 107, a camera 108, a drive unit 109, a button 113, a mounting base 130, and the like.

[0020] Display device 105 is provided on top of main device 100 and is used by store clerks or customers. Display device 105 includes, for example, a display using a liquid crystal display, an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode), an LED (Light Emitting Diode), or the like, and a touch panel provided on the display. Information regarding, for example, checkouts, advertisements, etc. is displayed on display device 105. Display device 105 may be detachable from main device 100. In this case, display device 105 is, for example, a tablet terminal or the like, and includes a CPU, memory, a communication I / F (Interface), etc. A store clerk can detach display device 105 from main device 100 and carry it around the store for use.

[0021] The distance measuring device 107 is provided on the top of the main device 100 and can detect the distance to a store clerk or a customer. The distance measuring device 107 enables the autonomous mobile POS device 10 to, for example, prevent collisions with people and move autonomously in accordance with the movement of people.

[0022] The camera 108 is provided on the top of the main device 100 and can capture images of the actions of a store clerk or a customer. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 can detect, for example, a predetermined action of a person based on the image captured by the camera 108.

[0023] The driving unit 109 is provided at the bottom of the main device 100 and functions as a moving unit that autonomously moves the autonomous mobile POS device 10. The driving unit 109 is composed of, for example, a motor, a reducer, wheels, tires, and the like.

[0024] The button 113 is provided on the main device 100 and is composed of, for example, a button for calling a store clerk, a button for moving the autonomously mobile POS device 10, etc. The placing table 130 is provided on the main device 100 and is composed of, for example, a tray for placing the peripheral device 14, etc.

[0025] 3 is a block diagram of the autonomous mobile POS device 10 according to this embodiment. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 includes a CPU 101, a ROM 102, a RAM 103, a storage device 104, a display device 105, a wireless communication unit 106, a distance measuring device 107, a camera 108, a drive unit 109, an audio output unit 110, an RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) reader / writer 111, a position detection unit 112, buttons 113, a code scanner 114, a printer 115, a contactless IC reader / writer 116, a cash drawer 117, a money handling unit 118, a bus 119, a power supply unit 120, a battery 121, and a connection connector 122. The CPU 101, ROM 102, RAM 103, storage device 104, display device 105, wireless communication unit 106, distance measuring device 107, camera 108, drive unit 109, audio output unit 110, RFID reader / writer 111, position detection unit 112, button 113, code scanner 114, printer 115, contactless IC reader / writer 116, cash drawer 117, and money handling unit 118 are interconnected via a bus 119. A battery 121 and a connector 122 are connected to the power supply unit 120.

[0026] The CPU 101 controls each part of the autonomous mobile POS device 10 using an application program. The ROM 102 is made up of non-volatile memory and stores application programs for controlling each part of the autonomous mobile POS device 10. The RAM 103 provides a memory area necessary for the operation of the CPU 101. The storage device 104 is a large-capacity storage device such as a hard disk.

[0027] The display device 105 includes a display 105a and a touch panel 105b. The display 105a is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an OLED display, an LED display, etc., and includes a drive circuit and an image processing circuit. The touch panel 105b includes a touch sensor that detects changes in capacitance or resistance.

[0028] The wireless communication unit 106 is a communication unit that transmits and receives data wirelessly, and is configured to be able to perform, for example, short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), wireless communication via a wireless LAN connection such as Wi-Fi, infrared wireless communication, etc. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 can communicate with the POS terminal 11, the store server 12, and the network camera 15 via the wireless communication unit 106.

[0029] The distance measuring device 107 is configured, for example, by a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) device, a stereo camera device, or the like, and acquires the spatial distribution of the distance to the measurement target. The distance measurement by the distance measuring device 107 may be, for example, a three-dimensional measurement in which the distance in the depth direction is measured while scanning in two directions, the vertical and horizontal directions. In this case, the distance measuring device 107 can acquire three-dimensional information within an area including the store clerk or customer. Note that when the distance measuring device 107 is configured by a LiDAR device, the distance measurement accuracy in the depth direction can be improved compared to when a stereo camera or the like is used. The type of laser light source used in the LiDAR device is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a laser light source that emits invisible light such as infrared light.

[0030] The camera 108 includes, for example, an area sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor, and an analog-to-digital conversion circuit.

[0031] The driving unit 109 moves the autonomous mobile POS device 10 freely under the control of the CPU 101. The audio output unit 110 includes a digital-to-analog conversion circuit that converts audio data into an analog signal, and an amplifier circuit that amplifies the analog signal and drives a speaker. The audio output unit 110 outputs, for example, audio to prevent collisions with people, audio guidance for customers, etc.

[0032] RFID reader / writer 111, for example, performs short-range wireless communication with an RFID chip that stores a product ID, receives and outputs the product ID, and when the customer pays for the product, RFID reader / writer 111, under the control of CPU 101, writes transaction completion information to an RFID chip embedded in the tag of the completed product, for example.

[0033] The location detection unit 112, for example, transmits the radio wave intensity from the access point 16 of the store 18 to a location information calculation server (not shown) and acquires the location information calculated by the location information calculation server from the location information calculation server. The location information calculation server calculates the location information from a pre-measured radio wave intensity model using, for example, triangulation technology. For example, the location information acquired by the location detection unit 112 is transmitted to the POS terminal 11, the store server 12, a store clerk terminal carried by a store clerk, etc., and is used to determine the location of the autonomous mobile POS device 10.

[0034] The buttons 113 include, for example, a button for calling a store clerk and a button for moving the autonomously mobile POS device 10. The code scanner 114 includes a CCD sensor or a CMOS sensor, an LED light source, and an analog-to-digital conversion circuit. The CCD sensor or CMOS sensor may be a line sensor or an area sensor.

[0035] The printer 115 is equipped with a roll paper discharge mechanism, an inkjet mechanism, and a drive circuit, and prints and outputs receipts, etc. The contactless IC reader / writer 116 acquires credit card information, electronic money information, etc. for payment from a contactless IC chip in a medium such as a mobile terminal or card held by the customer.

[0036] Cash drawer 117 stores coins, bills, etc. for cash payments, and is opened under the control of CPU 101. Cash drawer 117 is used when a customer makes a cash payment through a store clerk.

[0037] The money handling unit 118 includes a coin handling unit 118a, a bill handling unit 118b, and a change handling unit 118c. The money handling unit 118 functions when a customer uses the autonomous mobile POS device 10 as a self-checkout to make a cash payment.

[0038] The coin processing unit 118a includes a coin transport mechanism, a sensor that detects the type of coin, a coin sorting mechanism that sorts coins by type, a counter that counts coins by type, and a coin storage vault to store coins in. The coin processing unit 118a stores inserted coins by type in the coin storage vaults according to the type of coin detected by the sensor.

[0039] The banknote processing unit 118b includes a banknote transport mechanism, a sensor that detects the type of banknote, a banknote sorting mechanism that sorts banknotes by type, a counter that counts banknotes by type, and a banknote storage vault that stores banknotes. The banknote processing unit 118b stores deposited banknotes by type in the banknote storage vaults according to the type of banknote detected by the sensor.

[0040] The change processing unit 118c includes a control unit that determines the type of coins or bills that constitute the change, and a transport mechanism that dispenses the change from the coin storage or bill storage.

[0041] The connector 122 is a connector for connecting the autonomous mobile POS device 10 to a charger. When the connector 122 is connected to the connector of the charger, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 is electrically connected to the charger. Note that the connection format is not particularly limited, and various methods can be adopted. For example, a connection method may be adopted in which the connector 122 and the connector of the charger are contact terminals with corresponding contacts arranged in a row, and the corresponding contacts are brought into contact by being aligned by magnetic attraction, a three-dimensional shape, or the like, so that the two are electrically connected. Also, for example, a connection method may be adopted in which the connector of the charger is male and the connector 122 is female, and the connector of the charger is fitted into the connector 122 so that the two are electrically connected.

[0042] When the autonomous mobile POS device 10 is connected to a charger, the power supply unit 120 charges the battery 121 with charging power supplied from the charger. The power supply unit 120 also supplies the driving power supplied from the charger to each unit of the autonomous mobile POS device 10.

[0043] When the autonomous mobile POS device 10 is not connected to a charger, the power supply unit 120 supplies driving power from the battery 121 to each unit of the autonomous mobile POS device 10. When the remaining charge of the battery 121 falls below a predetermined threshold, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 moves to a waiting area 191 where a charger is installed. For example, when the autonomous mobile POS device 10 stops at a predetermined charging spot provided in the waiting area 191, the connector 122 is connected to the connector of the charger, and the battery 121 is automatically charged. Furthermore, when the remaining battery charge falls below a predetermined threshold, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 outputs a warning to a store clerk or a customer. Examples of the warning output method include a method of displaying a warning message on the display device 105 indicating that the remaining battery charge is below a predetermined threshold, or a method of outputting the message audibly using the audio output unit 110. Note that a store clerk may connect the autonomous mobile POS device 10 to a charger to charge the battery 121. In this case, the autonomously mobile POS device 10 transmits a warning that the remaining battery power is below a predetermined threshold to, for example, the POS terminal 11, the store server 12, or a store clerk terminal carried by a store clerk, via the wireless communication unit 106. This allows the store clerk to know that the remaining power of the battery 121 is low, and to quickly charge the autonomously mobile POS device 10.

[0044] The code scanner 114, the printer 115, the non-contact IC reader / writer 116, and the cash drawer 117 may be fixed to the housing of the autonomously mobile POS device 10, or may be detachable from the autonomously mobile POS device 10. If detachable, these devices are placed on a placement stand 130, for example.

[0045] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a transaction process using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 according to this embodiment.

[0046] First, the autonomously mobile POS device 10 is charged in the waiting area 191 and waits in a state in which it can move autonomously (step S101). When a store clerk performs a predetermined event, the autonomously mobile POS device 10 detects the event (step S102). Examples of the predetermined event include performing a predetermined action, pressing a button, and inputting a command. Examples of the predetermined action include gestures such as raising a hand, spreading a hand, and waving. The autonomously mobile POS device 10 identifies the store clerk to be tracked (step S103).

[0047] The autonomous mobile POS device 10 tracks the store clerk using the distance measuring device 107 while maintaining a certain distance from the store clerk (step S104). The certain distance is not particularly limited and may be a distance that does not interfere with the store clerk's customer service or work, such as approximately 2 meters. The store clerk moves around the display area 21 as needed to serve the customer (step S105). If the customer purchases a product while the store clerk is serving the customer (YES in step S106), the store clerk uses the RFID reader / writer 111 to read the tag attached to the product the customer will purchase (step S107). The product tag has an RFID chip stored therein that stores the product ID. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 moves close to the store clerk based on, for example, a predetermined gesture by the store clerk, and the store clerk can operate the autonomous mobile POS device 10. On the other hand, if the customer does not purchase a product (NO in step S106), the process returns to step S105.

[0048] The autonomous mobile POS device 10 acquires the product ID from the RFID chip embedded in the product tag using the RFID reader / writer 111 (step S108). If the product tag does not have an RFID chip embedded, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 acquires the product ID by, for example, reading the product code on the product tag using the code scanner 114. In this case, the product code may be a one-dimensional barcode or a two-dimensional code such as a QR code (registered trademark). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 accesses the store server 12 via the wireless communication unit 106 (step S109) and acquires product information from the database based on the product ID (step S110). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 displays transaction information such as the product name and price on the display device 105 (step S111). The customer makes payment using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21 based on the transaction information displayed on the display device 105 (step S112). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 uses the RFID reader / writer 111 to write transaction information to the RFID chip embedded in the product tag (step S113). This makes it possible to distinguish between transaction-completed products and untransaction-completed products. For example, gates capable of reading RFID chip information can be installed at the entrance and exit of the store 18, and an alarm or other sound can be emitted when an untransaction-completed product is taken out of the store, thereby preventing the untransaction-completed product from being taken out of the store.

[0049] The transaction process for the service is carried out, for example, using a medium that has an RFID chip that stores a service ID. The service ID is information for identifying the service. Examples of the medium include paper, a card, and a plate. When a customer pays for a service, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 uses the RFID reader / writer 111 to write the transaction information to the RFID chip that is embedded in the medium for the service that has been paid for. This makes it possible to distinguish between services that have been paid for and services that have not yet been paid for.

[0050] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of processing using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 according to this embodiment.

[0051] First, the autonomously mobile POS device 10 is charged in the waiting area 191 and waits in a state in which it can move autonomously (step S201). The autonomously mobile POS device 10 acquires image information of the display area 21 and information specifying the image capture area in the display area 21 from the network camera 15 via the wireless communication unit 106 (step S202). The autonomously mobile POS device 10 calculates the distribution density of people in the display area 21 based on the image information (step S203).

[0052] The autonomously mobile POS device 10 determines whether the distribution density of people exceeds a predetermined threshold (step S204). If it is determined that the distribution density of people exceeds the predetermined threshold (YES in step S204), the autonomously mobile POS device 10 determines a destination in the display area 21 (step S205). The destination can be, for example, an image capture area where the distribution density of people exceeds the predetermined threshold, or the vicinity of that image capture area. That is, the autonomously mobile POS device 10 moves to a location in the display area 21 where customers are concentrated. This allows customers to make payments using the autonomously mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21 without moving from the crowded location to the cash register area 20. On the other hand, if it is determined that the distribution density of people does not exceed the predetermined threshold (NO in step S204), the process returns to step S202.

[0053] The autonomously mobile POS device 10 determines whether or not the setting is such that a support request notification is sent to the store clerk terminal carried by the store clerk (step S206). The support request notification includes information regarding the destination. If it is determined that the setting is such that a support request notification is sent (YES in step S206), the autonomously mobile POS device 10 sends the support request notification to the store clerk terminal (step S207). On the other hand, if it is determined that the setting is not such that a support request notification is sent (NO in step S206), the process proceeds to step S208.

[0054] The autonomously mobile POS device 10 starts moving (step S208) and arrives at its destination in the display area 21 (step S209). The autonomously mobile POS device 10 determines whether or not there is a reply from the store clerk terminal (step S210). If it is determined that there is a reply from the store clerk terminal (YES in step S210), the autonomously mobile POS device 10 waits in the display area 21 (step S211). The store clerk arrives at the destination and serves the customer (step S212). When the customer purchases a product, the store clerk reads the product tag using the autonomously mobile POS device 10, and the customer makes payment using the autonomously mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21 (step S213).

[0055] If it is determined that there is no reply from the clerk terminal (NO in step S210), the autonomous mobile POS device 10 outputs an announcement to the customer via the audio output unit 110 (step S214). Examples of cases where there is no reply from the clerk terminal include when the clerk who confirmed the support request notification is unable to reply because he or she is busy serving a customer, or when the support request setting is not enabled. Examples of announcement messages include a message such as "If you would like to call a clerk, please press the clerk call button," or a message advertising a product or service. The message may be displayed on the display device 105. If the customer presses the clerk call button (YES in step S215), the process proceeds to step S212. In this case, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 transmits the clerk call notification and the location information acquired by the location detection unit 112 to the POS terminal 11, the store server 12, the clerk terminal carried by the clerk, etc. This allows the clerk to quickly move to the location of the customer who pressed the clerk call button and serve the customer. On the other hand, if the customer does not press the store clerk call button (NO in step S215), the customer makes a payment using the autonomously mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21 based on the self-checkout guide displayed on the display device 105 (step S216). Examples of the guide include reading a product tag, reading an IC card for electronic payment, and guidance on inserting coins and depositing banknotes for cash payment. In this way, the customer can choose whether or not to call a store clerk using the autonomously mobile POS device 10. Note that a store clerk may be called by, for example, performing a predetermined gesture or inputting a command.

[0056] If it is determined that the human distribution density exceeds a predetermined threshold, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 may determine a route and destination that avoids areas where customers are concentrated. In this case, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 avoids crowded areas and moves to an area where customers are not concentrated. This allows the autonomous mobile POS device 10 to make payments using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 in an uncrowded area without interfering with the customer's shopping. The threshold in this case is preferably higher than the threshold in step S204. In this way, by using multiple different thresholds, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 can be moved to a location suitable for transaction processing. After arriving at its destination, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 may output a voice announcement or the like to inform the customer of its location.

[0057] Furthermore, the destination of the other autonomous mobile POS device 10B may be determined based on the usage status of the autonomous mobile POS device 10A. For example, assume that the autonomous mobile POS device 10A has already moved to a predetermined location in the display area 21 and is being used by a store clerk or a customer. If the distribution density of people in the predetermined location in the display area 21 is high, the other autonomous mobile POS device 10B may be moved to a location near the predetermined location. By placing the other autonomous mobile POS device 10B near the predetermined location, the customer can make a payment using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21 without having to move from the crowded location to the cash register area 20.

[0058] 5, the case where the distribution density of people is calculated and the destination of the autonomous mobile POS device 10 is determined is described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the destination of the autonomous mobile POS device 10 may be determined based on the positions of multiple people. Furthermore, when the number of people in a predetermined location in a store exceeds a threshold, the predetermined location or its vicinity may be determined as the destination of the autonomous mobile POS device 10.

[0059] In this way, in this embodiment, the customer makes payment using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21, not limited to the cash register area 20. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the checkout process can be carried out smoothly.

[0060] (Second embodiment) A second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Components similar to those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted or simplified.

[0061] In this embodiment, it is assumed that the autonomous mobile POS device 10 moves along a predetermined route, similar to an AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle), based on, for example, induced current from an electric wire installed on the floor, magnetic tape attached to the floor, markers, etc. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 moves based on a schedule registered in advance by a store clerk. The schedule includes, for example, the start time of movement, the movement route, the destination, and the waiting time at the destination. A customer uses the autonomous mobile POS device 10 as a self-checkout, and gates capable of reading RFID chip information are installed at the entrance and exit of the store 18.

[0062] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a transaction process using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 according to this embodiment.

[0063] First, the autonomously mobile POS device 10 is charged in the waiting area 191 and waits in a state where it can move autonomously (step S301). The autonomously mobile POS device 10 checks a pre-registered schedule (step S302) and determines whether the current time is the movement start time (step S303). If it is determined that the current time is the movement start time (YES in step S303), the autonomously mobile POS device 10 moves along a predetermined route based on the registered schedule (step S304). On the other hand, if it is determined that the current time is not the movement start time (NO in step S303), the process returns to step S302.

[0064] The autonomous mobile POS device 10 arrives at the destination registered in the schedule (step S305). If the customer purchases a product (YES in step S306), the customer uses the RFID reader / writer 111 to read the tag attached to the product to be purchased based on the self-checkout guide displayed on the display device 105 (step S307). The guide may include, for example, guides on reading the product tag, reading an IC card for electronic payment, inserting coins for cash payment, and depositing banknotes. On the other hand, if the customer does not purchase a product (NO in step S306), the process proceeds to step S314.

[0065] The autonomous mobile POS device 10 acquires the product ID from the RFID chip embedded in the product tag using the RFID reader / writer 111 (step S308). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 accesses the store server 12 via the wireless communication unit 106 (step S309) and acquires product information from the database based on the product ID (step S310). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 displays transaction information such as the product name and price on the display device 105 (step S311). The customer makes payment using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21 based on the transaction information displayed on the display device 105 (step S312). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 writes transaction completion information to the RFID chip embedded in the product tag using the RFID reader / writer 111 (step S313). Gates capable of reading RFID chip information are installed at the entrance and exit of the store 18, so if a customer takes an unpaid product out of the store, a warning sound, for example, is output. This prevents unpaid items from being taken out of the store.

[0066] The autonomous mobile POS device 10 determines whether the time elapsed since arriving at the destination has exceeded the waiting time registered in the schedule (step S314). If it is determined that the elapsed time has exceeded the waiting time (YES in step S314), the autonomous mobile POS device 10 moves to the waiting area 191 (step S315). On the other hand, if it is determined that the elapsed time has not exceeded the waiting time (NO in step S314), the process returns to step S306.

[0067] In this way, in this embodiment, the customer makes payment using the autonomously mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21, not limited to the cash register area 20, without the intervention of a store clerk. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the checkout process can be carried out smoothly.

[0068] (Third embodiment) A third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Components similar to those in the first and second embodiments are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted or simplified.

[0069] In this embodiment, it is assumed that the store 18 is an unmanned store. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 functions as a robot that serves customers by, for example, interacting with them. An entrance gate is installed at the entrance of the store 18, and an exit gate capable of reading RFID chip information is installed at the exit of the store 18. The entrance gate and the exit gate may be configured as, for example, a flapper-type gate with two flaps, but may also be configured using a single flap.

[0070] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a transaction process using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 according to this embodiment.

[0071] First, when a customer enters the store 18 and stands in front of the entrance gate (step S401), the entrance gate opens (step S402). When the customer performs a predetermined event, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 detects the event (step S403). Examples of the predetermined event include performing a predetermined action, pressing a button, and inputting a command. Examples of the predetermined action include gestures such as raising a hand, spreading a hand, and waving. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 identifies the customer to be tracked (step S404).

[0072] The autonomous mobile POS device 10 tracks the customer while maintaining a certain distance from the customer using the distance measuring device 107 (step S405). The certain distance is not particularly limited and may be a distance that does not interfere with the customer's shopping, such as approximately 2 meters. The customer selects a product to purchase (step S406) and uses the RFID reader / writer 111 to read the tag attached to the product based on the self-checkout instructions displayed on the display device 105 (step S407). The instructions include, for example, instructions on reading the product tag, reading an IC card for electronic payment, and inserting coins and depositing banknotes for cash payment. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 moves to the vicinity of the customer based on, for example, a predetermined gesture by the customer, and the customer can operate the autonomous mobile POS device 10. The autonomous mobile POS device 10 acquires a product ID from the RFID chip embedded in the product tag using the RFID reader / writer 111 (step S408). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 accesses the store server 12 via the wireless communication unit 106 (step S409) and retrieves product information from the database based on the product ID (step S410). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 displays transaction information such as the product name and price on the display device 105 (step S411). The customer makes payment using the autonomous mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21 based on the transaction information displayed on the display device 105 (step S412). The autonomous mobile POS device 10 writes transaction completion information to the RFID chip embedded in the product tag using the RFID reader / writer 111 (step S413). This makes it possible to distinguish between products that have been purchased and products that have not yet been purchased. After the transaction process, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 moves to a designated waiting area.

[0073] The customer packs the items and moves to the exit gate (step S414). If there are no unpaid items among the packed items (NO in step S415), the exit gate is opened (step S416), and the customer is able to exit store 18 (step S417). On the other hand, if there are unpaid items among the packed items (YES in step S415), a warning sound, for example, is output (step S418), the exit gate is not opened, and the customer is not able to exit store 18 (step S419). This makes it possible to prevent unpaid items from being taken out of the store.

[0074] As described above, in this embodiment, in an unmanned store, a customer makes a payment using the autonomously mobile POS device 10 in the display area 21, for example, without being limited to a self-checkout area. Therefore, according to this embodiment, a smooth checkout process can be performed.

[0075] (Fourth embodiment) A fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

[0076] 8 is a block diagram of an information processing device 30 according to this embodiment. The information processing device 30 performs checkout processing for a product or service and includes a movement unit 40 that autonomously moves the information processing device 30, a detection unit 50 that can detect the position of a person, and a control unit 60 that controls the movement unit 40 according to the person's position. With this configuration, customers can make payments using the autonomously moving information processing device 30 in the display area, without being limited to the cash register area. Therefore, this embodiment allows for smooth checkout processing.

[0077] (Other embodiments) The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be modified as appropriate within the scope of the invention.

[0078] In the above embodiment, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 calculates the distribution density of people based on image information acquired by the network camera 15 and determines the destination. However, this is not limiting. For example, the distance measurement device 107 may acquire information about the distribution of people within a store and determine the destination. Alternatively, the destination may be determined based on image information acquired by the camera 108. In this case, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 has a facial recognition function and compares pre-registered facial image data of store clerks with faces captured in images acquired by the camera 108 to identify whether the person captured by the camera 108 is a store clerk or a customer. This allows the autonomous mobile POS device 10 to move to, for example, a location with many customers and few store clerks. Note that if the autonomous mobile POS device 10 has a facial recognition function, the payment method may be facial recognition payment. In this case, the autonomous mobile POS device 10 performs identity authentication by comparing pre-registered facial image data of customers with faces captured in images acquired by the camera 108. If the identity authentication is successful, payment is made based on, for example, the customer's credit card information registered in association with the face image data.

[0079] In the above embodiment, the standby location of the autonomously mobile POS device 10 is the standby area 191, but this is not limiting. Any location that does not interfere with the customer service or work of store clerks, the shopping of customers, or the movement of people, etc., may be used, for example, an empty space in the cash register area 20 or the display area 21.

[0080] In the above embodiment, the case where the autonomous mobile POS device 10 is charged is described as the waiting area 191, but this is not a limitation. Any place can be used as long as it is possible to install a charger and does not interfere with the customer service or work of store staff, the shopping of customers, the movement of people, etc., and it may be, for example, an empty space in the cash register area 20 or the display area 21.

[0081] Furthermore, the scope of each embodiment also includes a processing method in which a program that operates the configuration of each embodiment to realize the functions of the above-described embodiments is recorded on a recording medium, the program recorded on the recording medium is read as code, and the program is executed on a computer. In other words, a computer-readable recording medium is also included in the scope of each embodiment. Furthermore, each embodiment includes not only a recording medium on which the above-described computer program is recorded, but also the computer program itself.

[0082] A part or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

[0083] (Appendix 1) An information processing device that performs accounting processing for goods or services, characterized in that it comprises a movement unit that autonomously moves the information processing device, a detection unit that can detect the position of a person, and a control unit that controls the movement unit according to the position of the person.

[0084] (Appendix 2) The information processing device according to Supplementary Note 1, wherein the control unit controls the movement unit so that the information processing device moves in accordance with the movement of the person.

[0085] (Appendix 3) The information processing device described in Appendix 1 or 2, characterized in that the detection unit further detects the person's movement, and the control unit controls the movement unit so that the information processing device moves autonomously in accordance with the movement.

[0086] (Appendix 4) 4. The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control unit determines a destination of the information processing device based on a distribution of the plurality of people.

[0087] (Appendix 5) The information processing device according to claim 4, wherein the control unit acquires information from an imaging unit installed in a store and calculates the distribution.

[0088] (Appendix 6) The information processing device described in any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 5, wherein the control unit controls the movement unit based on a predetermined schedule, and the schedule includes at least one piece of information regarding the start time of movement of the information processing device, the movement route, and the movement destination.

[0089] (Appendix 7) The information processing device described in any one of Appendices 1 to 6, characterized in that the control unit controls the moving unit to move the information processing device to a specified charging location when the remaining charge of the battery for driving the moving unit falls below a threshold.

[0090] (Appendix 8) 8. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit is capable of detecting the distance to a target object.

[0091] (Appendix 9) 9. The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a display unit that displays instructions for the customer to complete the transaction.

[0092] (Appendix 10) An information processing device as described in Appendix 9, characterized in that when the transaction is completed by the customer, identification information that identifies that the transaction has been completed is added to the product, or the identification information is added to a medium that identifies the service.

[0093] (Appendix 11) An information processing method in an information processing device that performs accounting processing for goods or services, comprising the steps of autonomously moving the information processing device using a moving unit, detecting the position of a person, and controlling the moving unit according to the position of the person.

[0094] (Appendix 12) A program that causes a computer to execute an information processing method in an information processing device that performs accounting processing for goods or services, the program comprising the steps of autonomously moving the information processing device using a moving unit, detecting the position of a person, and controlling the moving unit according to the position of the person. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] 10 Autonomous mobile POS device 11. POS terminals 12 Store Server 13 Server 14 Peripherals 15 Network Cameras 16 Access Points 17 In-store network 18 stores 19 Backyard 20 Cashier Area 21 Display Area 100 Main unit 101 CPU 102 ROM 103 RAM 104 Storage device 105 Display device 105a Display 105b Touch Panel 106 Radio Communication Department 107 Ranging device 108 Camera 109 Drive Unit 110 Audio output section 111 RFID reader / writer 112 Position detection unit 113 Button 114 Code Scanner 115 Printer 116 Contactless IC reader / writer 117 Cash drawer 118 Financial Processing Department 118a Coin Processing Department 118b Banknote processing unit 118c Change Processing Unit 119 Bus 120 Power supply section 121 Battery 122 connection connector 130 Mounting table 191 Waiting Area

Claims

1. a payment unit that performs payment processing based on information about registered products or services; an acquisition unit that acquires image information of a predetermined area; a determination unit that determines the predetermined area as a crowded place when the distribution density of people exceeds a predetermined threshold or the number of people exceeds a predetermined threshold based on the image information; and a control unit that controls autonomous movement of the information processing device to avoid the crowded place and to go to a place that is not crowded.

2. Equipped with a detection unit that detects people, the control unit controls the autonomous movement so as to approach the detected person, The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the target of the detection is a customer who performs the payment process.

3. The information processing device according to claim 2 , wherein the detection unit detects a predetermined motion of a person.

4. the control unit controls movement of the information processing device based on a predetermined schedule; The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the schedule includes the destination as a travel route.

5. The information processing device according to claim 4 , wherein the schedule includes a waiting time at the destination.

6. an imaging means for capturing an image of a person making a payment; The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the payment unit performs face recognition payment based on the image.

7. The information processing device according to claim 4 , wherein, when the travel route includes a place where people are concentrated, the control unit determines the travel route so as to avoid the place where people are concentrated.

8. The information processing device according to claim 1 , further comprising a display unit that displays a guide for prompting the customer to perform the settlement process.

9. 9. The information processing device according to claim 8, wherein, when the payment process is performed by the customer, identification information identifying that the payment process has been performed is added to the product, or the identification information is added to a medium identifying the service.

10. The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit determines the destination when the crowded place is identified.

11. 1. A computer-implemented information processing method, comprising: A step of performing payment processing based on information of the registered product or service; acquiring image information of a predetermined area; determining the predetermined area as a crowded place when the distribution density of people exceeds a predetermined threshold or the number of people exceeds a predetermined threshold based on the image information; and controlling the autonomous movement of the information processing device to avoid the crowded place and to go to a place that is not crowded.

12. A program for causing a computer to execute an information processing method in an information processing device, A step of performing payment processing based on information of the registered product or service; acquiring image information of a predetermined area; determining the predetermined area as a crowded place when the distribution density of people exceeds a predetermined threshold or the number of people exceeds a predetermined threshold based on the image information; and controlling the autonomous movement of the information processing device to avoid the crowded place and to go to a place that is not crowded.

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