Product purchase support device, product purchase support system, and program

Abstract

To provide a commodity purchase support device, a commodity purchase support system, and a program that allow a user to obtain information about an operational object by directly touching the operational object instead of a conventional interface using a touch panel or a keyboard.SOLUTION: Miniature link (commodity purchase support device) comprises a first wireless tag reader that repeatedly reads information on wireless tags attached to objects that are placed in a predetermined area, imitate the shape of a commodity and have the identification information for the relevant commodity registered on a wireless tag, an object movement determination unit that determines that the object with the wireless tag that cannot be read has moved outside the area, on the condition that the first wireless tag reader has detected that there is a wireless tag that cannot be read, and an information presentation unit that presents information on a commodity that the item determined to have moved outside the area imitates.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a product purchase support device, a product purchase support system, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag reader that reads an RFID tag attached to a product to register the product is known (for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Since information related to a product can be registered in an RFID tag, it is expected to be applied to product promotion, trial experience, product sample provision, etc., instead of the conventional interfaces using a touch panel or a keyboard.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a product purchase support device, a product purchase support system, and a program that can obtain information related to an operation target while directly touching the operation target, instead of the conventional interfaces using a touch panel or a keyboard.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The product purchase support device according to the embodiment includes a first wireless tag reader, an article movement determination unit, and an information presentation unit. , Customer Identification Department, Memory Department, The first wireless tag reader repeatedly reads identification information from an article with a wireless tag to which product identification information is registered and placed in a predetermined area. The article movement determination unit determines that the article with the unreadable wireless tag has moved outside the area on the condition that the first wireless tag reader has detected that there is an unreadable wireless tag. The information presentation unit presents information on the product related to the article determined to have moved outside the area. The customer identification unit identifies the customer who moved the item outside the designated area. The storage unit stores the information about the customer identified by the customer identification unit in association with the identification information of the item that the customer moved outside the designated area. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows a schematic configuration of the miniature link according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a hardware block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of MiniatureLink. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an example of the data structure of a miniature master. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of Miniature Link. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow performed by MiniatureLink. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows a schematic configuration of the sample provision system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a hardware block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a sample vending machine. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a sample vending machine. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow performed by a sample vending machine. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows a schematic configuration of the vanity system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating the structure of a mirror signage. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a hardware block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a vanity system. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows an example of the operation of a dressing table system. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a vanity system. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow performed by a vanity system. [Figure 16]Figure 16 shows an example of a store configuration to which each embodiment of the present disclosure is applied. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below. The first embodiment, the miniature link 10, the second embodiment, the sample vending machine 30, and the third embodiment, the vanity system 60, described below, are installed, for example, in a cosmetics store 8 (see Figure 16), and all of them provide customers with the information necessary when purchasing cosmetics.

[0008] (First Embodiment) The first embodiment of the Miniature Link 10 of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0009] (Outline of the Miniature Link structure) MiniatureLink 10 is a device or system that, when a customer picks up a miniature modeled after a product in a store, displays product information and videos related to the product corresponding to the miniature picked up. MiniatureLink 10 is an example of a product purchase support device in this disclosure.

[0010] The schematic configuration of the miniature link 10 according to the embodiment will be explained using Figure 1. Figure 1 is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of the miniature link of the first embodiment.

[0011] As shown in Figure 1, Miniature Link 10 comprises Miniature 5, RFID reader 15, camera 16, projector 17, store server 18, and control device 19.

[0012] Miniature 5 is a small model that imitates a product. The Miniature 5 is attached with an RFID tag 6 (an example of a wireless tag) in which the identification information (for example, a product code) of the product imitated by the Miniature 5 is registered. The Miniature 5 is an example of an article in the present disclosure. Note that the RFID tag 6 may be embedded inside the Miniature 5. Also, the Miniature 5 does not necessarily have to be in the shape that imitates a product, and for example, it may be a card with a photograph or illustration of the product printed thereon.

[0013] There are prepared a plurality of types of Miniatures 5, that is, objects that imitate a plurality of different products, and they are removably accommodated in a container 4 placed at a predetermined position on Table 3. In the example of FIG. 1, the container 4 is a dish-shaped tray, but the form of the container 4 is not limited thereto. The container 4 may be a case, shelf, mounting table, sheet, etc. for displaying and accommodating the Miniature 5. That is, the container 4 defines the existence area of the Miniature 5 by the Miniature 5 being displayed or accommodated therein, and it may be rephrased as a container or a display fixture.

[0014] The RFID reader 15 is installed on the back side of the top plate of Table 3 and repeatedly reads the information of the RFID tag 6 attached to the Miniature 5 accommodated in the container 4.

[0015] The camera 16 is installed, for example, on Table 3 and captures an image of the customer 2 approaching the container​​​​​​​The store server 18 stores information relating to customer 2 and information relating to the product that customer 2 picked up, which is modeled after the miniature 5.

[0018] The control device 19 is a controller that enables various operations of the Miniature Link 10.

[0019] Customer 2, upon finding a product they like, takes a miniature 5 modeled after that product to another corner of the store 8 (for example, the sample vending machine 30 described in the second embodiment (see Figure 6)). In the miniature link 10, the container 4, RFID reader 15, camera 16, and projector 17 may be provided for each product. One control device 19 may control one set of RFID readers 15, cameras 16, and projectors 17, or one control device 19 may control multiple sets of RFID readers 15, cameras 16, and projectors 17.

[0020] (MiniatureLink hardware configuration) The hardware configuration of MiniatureLink 10 will be explained using Figure 2. Figure 2 is a hardware block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of MiniatureLink.

[0021] The control device 19 that controls the miniature link 10 has a configuration in which the control unit 11, the memory unit 12, the peripheral device controller 13, and the communication interface 14 are connected to each other by an internal bus.

[0022] The control unit 11 controls the overall operation of the miniature link 10. The control unit 11 comprises a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 111, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 112, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 113. The CPU 111 connects to the ROM 112 and the RAM 113 via internal buses such as an address bus and a data bus. The CPU 111 loads various programs stored in the ROM 112 and the memory unit 12 into the RAM 113. The CPU 111 controls the operation of the miniature link 10 by operating according to the various programs loaded into the RAM 113. In other words, the control unit 11 has the configuration of a typical computer.

[0023] The storage unit 12 is a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive). Alternatively, the storage unit 12 may be a non-volatile memory such as flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off. The storage unit 12 stores the control program 121, the miniature master 122, the RFID tag reference data 123, and the usage history data 124.

[0024] The control program 121 is a program that controls the overall operation of the Miniature Link 10. The control program 121 may be provided stored in the memory unit 12, or it may be provided as an installable or executable file recorded on a computer-readable non-temporary recording medium such as a CD-ROM, flexible disk (FD), CD-R, or DVD. The control program 121 may also be provided by storing it on a computer connected to a network and downloading it via the network. Furthermore, the control program 121 may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0025] The miniature master 122 is a master file that stores product information, etc., of the product that the miniature 5 imitates, associated with the product code registered in the RFID tag 6 attached to the miniature 5. The specific structure of the miniature master 122 will be described in detail later (see Figure 3).

[0026] The RFID tag reference data 123 is a file that stores the product codes registered to the RFID tags 6 attached to the miniatures 5 contained in the container 4 at that time.

[0027] MiniatureLink 10 repeatedly reads the information on the RFID tags 6 attached to the miniatures 5 contained in container 4, such as product codes. Each time a product code is read, MiniatureLink 10 compares the read product code with the RFID tag reference data 123. If the read product code matches all the product codes stored in the RFID tag reference data 123, MiniatureLink 10 determines that the miniatures 5 contained in container 4 have not moved out of container 4. If the read product code is missing from the product codes stored in the RFID tag reference data 123, MiniatureLink 10 determines that the miniature 5 with the missing product code has been taken by a customer and moved out of container 4. MiniatureLink 10 then registers the product code read at that time as new RFID tag reference data 123. Furthermore, if the scanned product code is greater than the product code stored in the RFID tag reference data 123, Miniature Link 10 determines that the miniature 5, which was previously held by a customer, has been returned to container 4. Miniature Link 10 then adds the product code that has been added since the last scan to the RFID tag reference data 123.

[0028] Thus, the miniature link 10 determines that the miniature 5 with the product code read at that time is contained in container 4.

[0029] The usage history data 124 is a file that stores information identifying customer 2 who used the miniature link 10, and associates this information with the product code of the item that the miniature 5, which customer 2 moved outside the container 4, represents.

[0030] The usage history data 124 is output to the store server 18 immediately or at any time. The store server 18 stores and saves the acquired usage history data 124. The stored usage history data 124 is used to promote products to customer 2. In addition, the stored usage history data 124 can be used to analyze the relationship between customer 2's attributes (age, gender, etc.) and the products that customer 2 is interested in, which can be useful for future product development.

[0031] The control unit 11 is connected to an RFID reader 15, a camera 16, and a projector 17 via a peripheral device controller 13, which perform input and output of various types of information. The details of each input / output device are as described above.

[0032] Furthermore, the control unit 11 communicates with the store server 18 via the communication interface 14. The store server 18 acquires and stores usage history data 124 from the miniature link 10. Note that the configuration of the miniature link 10 is not limited to the configuration described above; the store server 18 may acquire the product code attached to the miniature 5 picked up by the customer 2, and the store server 18 may cause the projector 17 to display product description information.

[0033] (Data structure of miniature masters) The data structure of the miniature master 122 will be explained using Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the miniature master.

[0034] Miniature Master 122 stores product information for each product, associating it with a product code that uniquely identifies the product.

[0035] Product information includes the product name, price, application area, makeup color, and descriptive information. The product name is the name of the product. The price is the price of the product. The application area indicates the application area of ​​the product (lips, cheeks, around the eyes, etc.). The makeup color is information related to the color of the makeup applied by the product. The application area and makeup color are used when performing a virtual makeup application using the product. See Figure 13 for details. The descriptive information is promotional information including the product's features and usage. The descriptive information includes image data, video data, and audio data. The miniature master 122 may also store other product information, such as special sale information.

[0036] (Functional configuration of Miniature Link) The functional configuration of Miniature Link 10 will be explained using Figure 4. Figure 4 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of Miniature Link.

[0037] The control unit 11 of the Miniature Link 10 deploys the control program 121 to the RAM 113 and operates it, thereby realizing the customer identification unit 21, the RFID tag reading unit 22, the miniature movement determination unit 23, the product information display unit 24, and the history storage unit 25 as functional units, as shown in Figure 4. Some or all of these functional units may be realized by dedicated hardware.

[0038] The customer identification unit 21 determines whether there is a customer near table 3. The customer identification unit 21 also identifies who customer 2 is who is near table 3. Furthermore, the customer identification unit 21 identifies customer 2 who moved the miniature 5 out of container 4.

[0039] The customer identification unit 21 does not specify the method by which it identifies customers. For example, it may capture a facial image of a customer entering the store 8 (see Figure 16) at the entrance and assign a unique identification number to the captured customer. Then, it can identify the person detected from the images captured by multiple cameras installed inside the store 8 and determine the location of the customer with the identification number within the store.

[0040] Furthermore, if a customer has a membership card for store 8, the membership card may be read using a card reader (not shown) installed on table 3, and the aforementioned identification number may be replaced with the membership number to determine the customer's location.

[0041] The RFID tag reader 22 repeatedly reads the product code registered on the RFID tag 6 from the miniature 5, which is placed inside the container 4, i.e., in a predetermined area, and is fitted with an RFID tag 6 on which a product code has been registered. The RFID tag reader 22 is an example of the first wireless tag reader in this disclosure.

[0042] The miniature movement determination unit 23 determines that the miniature 5 with the unreadable RFID tag 6 has moved out of the container 4, provided that the RFID tag reader 22 has detected that there is an unreadable RFID tag 6. The miniature movement determination unit 23 also determines that a new RFID tag 6 has been placed in the container 4, provided that a new RFID tag 6 has been read. In other words, the miniature movement determination unit 23 recognizes that the miniature 5 placed in the container 4 has been taken out by customer 2, and that the taken-out miniature 5 has been returned to the container 4. The miniature movement determination unit 23 is an example of an article movement determination unit in this disclosure.

[0043] The product information display unit 24 displays product information, such as product description information, related to the miniature 5 that has been determined to have moved outside the container 4, on the table 3 using the projector 17. The product information, such as the description information, displayed at this time is information stored in the miniature master 122, which will be described later (see Figure 3). Note that the product information display unit 24 is an example of an information display unit in this disclosure.

[0044] The history storage unit 25 associates the information relating to customer 2 identified by the customer identification unit 21 with the product code registered in the RFID tag 6 attached to the miniature 5 that customer 2 moved outside the container 4, and stores it in the usage history data 124. Note that the history storage unit 25 is an example of a storage unit in this disclosure.

[0045] (The processing flow performed by Miniature Link) Figure 5 illustrates the processing flow performed by Miniature Link 10. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow performed by Miniature Link.

[0046] The customer identification unit 21 determines whether there is a customer near table 3 (step S11). If it is determined that there is a customer near table 3 (step S11: Yes), the process proceeds to step S12. On the other hand, if it is not determined that there is a customer near table 3 (step S11: No), the process repeats step S11. The customer identification unit 21 determines that there is a customer near table 3 if a person is visible in the image captured by camera 16.

[0047] In step S11, if it is determined that there is a customer near table 3, the customer identification unit 21 identifies the customer (step S12). The customer identification unit 21 identifies the customer, for example, by comparing the facial image of the customer who entered store 8 with the facial image of the customer captured by camera 16, as described above.

[0048] The RFID tag reader 22 reads the product code registered in the RFID tag 6 attached to the miniature 5 housed in the container 4 (step S13).

[0049] The miniature movement determination unit 23 determines whether the product code read in step S13 matches a product code registered in the RFID tag reference data 123 (step S14). If it is determined that the read product code matches a product code registered in the RFID tag reference data 123 (step S14: Yes), the process returns to step S11. On the other hand, if it is determined that the read product code does not match a product code stored in the RFID tag reference data 123 (step S14: No), the process proceeds to step S15.

[0050] In step S14, if the read product code is not determined to match a product code registered in the RFID tag reference data 123, the miniature movement determination unit 23 identifies a product code from the RFID tag reference data 123 that could not be read in step S13 (step S15). The miniature movement determination unit 23 determines that the miniature 5 with the product code identified in step S15 has moved out of the container 4, that is, a customer has picked up the miniature 5.

[0051] The miniature movement determination unit 23 updates the RFID tag reference data 123 by deleting the product code identified in step S15 from the product codes stored in the RFID tag reference data 123 (step S16).

[0052] The product information display unit 24 reads product information, such as product description information, from the miniature master 122, which has the product code identified in step S15, and projects it onto table 3 using the projector 17 (step S17). However, the information display format of the product information display unit 24 is not limited to this; for example, the projector 17 may sequentially project product information of multiple products contained in container 4 onto table 3, and when it detects that a customer has picked up miniature 5, it may project product information of the product that miniature 5 imitates onto table 3.

[0053] The history storage unit 25 associates the customer information identified in step S12 with the product code attached to the miniature 5 picked up by the customer, identified in step S15, and stores it in the usage history data 124 (step S18). After that, the miniature link 10 terminates the process shown in Figure 5.

[0054] Although not shown in the flowchart in Figure 5, if a customer returns the miniature 5 that they have picked up to the container 4, the RFID tag reader 22 will read the product code again, which it had previously been unable to read. In such a case, the miniature movement determination unit 23 updates the RFID tag reference data 123 by adding the product code that was previously deleted back into the RFID tag reference data 123.

[0055] Furthermore, the miniature link 10 may also have a function to output RFID tag reference data 123 to the store server 18. This allows the store server 18 to monitor if a customer takes a miniature 5 that they have picked up to use in another device as shown in the second or third embodiment, and the number of miniatures 5 stored in the container 4 decreases. Therefore, if a store employee confirms that the number of miniatures 5 has decreased on the store server 18, they can replenish the miniatures 5 as needed.

[0056] (Effects of the first embodiment) As described above, the Miniature Link 10 (product purchase support device) of the first embodiment includes an RFID tag reader 22 (first RFID tag reader) that repeatedly reads identification information from miniatures 5 (articles) that are placed in a predetermined area and have RFID tags 6 (wireless tags) on which product identification information is registered; a miniature movement determination unit 23 (article movement determination unit) that determines that the miniature 5 with the unreadable RFID tag 6 has moved outside the container 4, provided that the RFID tag reader 22 has detected that there is an RFID tag 6 that can no longer be read; and a product information display unit 24 (information display unit) that displays information about the product relating to the miniature 5 that has been determined to have moved outside the area. Therefore, instead of using a conventional interface that uses a touch panel or keyboard, the customer 2 can obtain product information relating to the miniature 5 that is the object of operation by directly touching the object of operation. As a result, the customer can enjoy the pleasure and comfort of using their hands, which is not possible with conventional interfaces that operate a GUI (Graphical User Interface) on a screen using a touch panel.

[0057] Furthermore, in the Miniature Link 10 (product purchase support device) of the first embodiment, the item is a miniature model of the actual product. Therefore, customer 2 can get the sensation of touching the actual product.

[0058] Furthermore, the Miniature Link 10 (product purchase support device) of the first embodiment further includes a customer identification unit 21 that identifies a customer 2 who has moved a miniature 5 (item) outside the container 4 (area), and a history storage unit 25 (storage unit) that stores information relating to the customer identified by the customer identification unit 21 and the product code (identification information) registered on the RFID tag 6 (wireless tag) attached to the miniature 5 that the customer 2 has moved outside the container 4, in association with each other.Therefore, since the operation history of customer 2 can be stored, information that can be used for product advertising strategies and future product development can be obtained.

[0059] (Second embodiment) The sample provision system 50, which is a second embodiment of this disclosure, will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0060] (Outline of the sample distribution system) The sample distribution system 50 is installed in a store and, when a customer inserts a miniature 5 obtained using the miniature link 10 described in the first embodiment, the system provides a sample of the product that the miniature 5 imitates. The sample distribution system 50 is an example of a product purchase support system in this disclosure.

[0061] The schematic configuration of the sample provision system 50 according to the embodiment will be explained using Figure 6. Figure 6 is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of the sample provision system according to the second embodiment.

[0062] As shown in Figure 6, the sample distribution system 50 includes a miniature link 10 and a sample vending machine 30.

[0063] The miniature link 10 is as described in the first embodiment.

[0064] The sample vending machine 30 dispenses a sample 49 of the product that the miniature 5 imitates when the customer 2 inserts the miniature 5 that they have picked up with the miniature link 10. Specifically, when the customer 2 inserts the miniature 5 that they have picked up with the miniature link 10, the sample vending machine 30 dispenses a sample 49 of the product that the miniature 5 imitates. The sample vending machine 30 is an example of a sample dispensing device in this disclosure. As mentioned above, the miniature 5 is fitted with an RFID tag 6 on which a product code has been registered.

[0065] The sample vending machine 30 includes an input slot 47, a discharge slot 48, a camera 35, and a display device 38.

[0066] The input slot 47 is, for example, located at the top of the sample vending machine 30 and is a part that guides the inserted miniature 5 into the interior of the sample vending machine 30.

[0067] The discharge port 48 is, for example, located at the bottom of the sample vending machine 30 and is the part that dispenses the sample product 49 that the miniature 5 imitates.

[0068] Camera 35 is installed on the surface of the sample vending machine 30 and captures images of customers standing near the sample vending machine 30.

[0069] The display device 38 is a liquid crystal display or organic EL display installed on the surface of the sample vending machine 30. The display device 38 displays explanatory information about the product that the miniature 5 has placed into the sample vending machine 30.

[0070] Furthermore, the sample vending machine 30 is connected to the store server 18 provided by Miniature Link 10 in a communication manner, and information relating to the customer who inserted Miniature 5 into the sample vending machine 30 and the product code of the product that imitates Miniature 5 are associated and stored in the store server 18.

[0071] (Hardware configuration of a sample vending machine) The hardware configuration of the sample vending machine 30 will be explained using Figure 7. Figure 7 is a hardware block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the sample vending machine.

[0072] The sample vending machine 30 has a configuration in which a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, a peripheral device controller 33, and a communication interface 34 are connected to each other by an internal bus.

[0073] The control unit 31 controls the overall operation of the sample vending machine 30. The control unit 31 comprises a CPU 311, a ROM 312, and a RAM 313. The CPU 311 connects to the ROM 312 and the RAM 313 via internal buses such as an address bus and a data bus. The CPU 311 loads various programs stored in the ROM 312 and the memory unit 32 into the RAM 313. The CPU 311 controls the operation of the sample vending machine 30 by operating according to the various programs loaded into the RAM 313. In other words, the control unit 31 has the configuration of a typical computer.

[0074] The storage unit 32 is a storage device such as an HDD or SSD. Alternatively, the storage unit 32 may be a non-volatile memory such as flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off. The storage unit 32 stores the control program 321, the miniature master 322, and the usage history data 323.

[0075] The control program 321 is a program that controls the overall operation of the sample vending machine 30. The control program 321 may be provided stored in the memory unit 32, or it may be provided as an installable or executable file recorded on a computer-readable non-temporary recording medium such as a CD-ROM, flexible disk (FD), CD-R, or DVD. The control program 321 may also be provided by storing it on a computer connected to a network and downloading it via the network. Furthermore, the control program 321 may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0076] Miniature Master 322 is the same as Miniature Master 122 (see Figure 3) mentioned above.

[0077] The usage history data 323 is a file that stores information identifying customer 2 who used the sample vending machine 30, and the product code of the miniature 5 that customer 2 inserted into the sample vending machine 30, associating them together. The usage history data 323 is output to the store server 18 immediately or at any time. The store server 18 stores the acquired usage history data 323. At that time, it is desirable for the store server 18 to store the usage history data 124 acquired from the miniature link 10 and the usage history data 323 acquired from the sample vending machine 30 together. That is, it is desirable for the store server 18 to store information identifying customer 2, the product code of the miniature 5 that customer 2 took out of the container 4, and information indicating whether customer 2 received a sample 49 from the sample vending machine 30, associating them together. This makes it possible to store customer 2's behavior patterns in the store 8, and to obtain information that can be used for product advertising strategies and future product development.

[0078] The control unit 31 is connected via the peripheral device controller 33 to a camera 35, a transmissive light sensor 36, an RFID reader 37, a display device 38, and a sample ejection mechanism 39, which perform input and output of various information.

[0079] The functions of the camera 35 and the display device 38 are as described above.

[0080] The transmissive light sensor 36 is an example of a sensor that detects when a miniature 5 is inserted into the sample vending machine 30. The transmissive light sensor 36 is a photointerrupter consisting of an emitter that emits infrared light and a receiver that receives infrared light. The transmissive light sensor 36 outputs a signal when the miniature 5 passes between the emitter and receiver and the infrared light is blocked. The sample vending machine 30 may also detect when a miniature 5 is inserted into the sample vending machine 30 using a detector other than the transmissive light sensor 36.

[0081] The RFID reader 37 is installed inside the sample vending machine 30 and reads the information (product code) from the RFID tag 6 attached to the miniature 5 inserted through the slot 47.

[0082] The sample dispensing mechanism 39 is a mechanism that dispenses a sample 49 of the product corresponding to the product code read by the RFID reader 37 from the dispensing port 48. The sample dispensing mechanism 39 is a repurposed mechanism used in general vending machines.

[0083] (Functional configuration of a sample vending machine) The functional configuration of the sample vending machine 30 will be explained using Figure 8. Figure 8 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the sample vending machine.

[0084] The control unit 31 of the sample vending machine 30 operates by loading the control program 321 into the RAM 313, thereby realizing the following functional units as shown in Figure 8: the customer identification unit 41, the miniature insertion detection unit 42, the RFID tag reading unit 43, the product information display unit 44, the sample product dispensing unit 45, and the history storage unit 46. Some or all of these functional units may be realized by dedicated hardware.

[0085] The customer identification unit 41 determines whether a customer has approached the sample vending machine 30. The customer identification unit 41 also identifies which customer inserted the miniature 5 into the sample vending machine 30.

[0086] The method by which the customer identification unit 41 identifies customers is not limited, but similar to the customer identification unit 21 described above, it is sufficient to assign a unique identification number to the facial image captured when the customer enters the store 8 (see Figure 16), and then track the person in the facial image using multiple cameras installed in the store to determine the customer's location. Alternatively, if the customer has a membership card for store 8, the membership card may be read using a card reader (not shown) installed next to the sample vending machine 30, and the aforementioned identification number may be replaced with the membership number to determine the customer's location.

[0087] The miniature input detection unit 42 detects when an item has been inserted through the input opening 47.

[0088] The RFID tag reader 43 reads the RFID tag 6 attached to the miniature 5 inserted through the input slot 47. Note that the RFID tag reader 43 is an example of the second wireless tag reader in this disclosure.

[0089] The product information display unit 44 displays product information, such as descriptive information, related to the product with the product code registered in the RFID tag 6 read by the RFID tag reading unit 43, on the display device 38.

[0090] The sample discharge unit 45 discharges samples 49 of the product corresponding to the product code registered in the RFID tag 6 read by the RFID tag reader unit 43 from the discharge port 48.

[0091] The history storage unit 46 associates the information relating to customer 2 identified by the customer identification unit 41 with the product code registered in the RFID tag 6 attached to the miniature 5 inserted from the input slot 47, and stores it in the usage history data 323.

[0092] (Process flow of a sample vending machine) Figure 9 illustrates the processing flow of the sample vending machine 30. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the sample vending machine.

[0093] The customer identification unit 41 determines whether there is a customer near the sample vending machine 30 (step S21). If it is determined that there is a customer near the sample vending machine 30 (step S21: Yes), the process proceeds to step S22. On the other hand, if it is not determined that there is a customer near the sample vending machine 30 (step S21: No), the determination in step S21 is repeated. The customer identification unit 41 determines that there is a customer near the sample vending machine 30 if a person is visible in the image captured by the camera 35.

[0094] In step S21, if it is determined that a customer is near the sample vending machine 30, the customer identification unit 41 identifies the customer (step S22). The customer identification unit 41 identifies the customer, for example, by comparing the facial image of the customer who entered the store 8 with the facial image of the customer captured by the camera 16, as described above.

[0095] The miniature insertion detection unit 42 determines whether a miniature 5 has been inserted from the insertion port 47 (step S23). If it is determined that a miniature 5 has been inserted from the insertion port 47 (step S23: Yes), the process proceeds to step S24. On the other hand, if it is not determined that a miniature 5 has been inserted from the insertion port 47 (step S23: No), the process returns to step S21.

[0096] In step S23, when it is determined that the miniature 5 has been inserted from the input slot 47, the RFID tag reader 43 reads the product code registered in the RFID tag 6 (step S24).

[0097] The RFID tag reader 43 determines in step S24 whether the product code read in step S24 matches the product code registered in the miniature master 322 (step S25). If it is determined that the read product code matches the product code registered in the miniature master 322 (step S25: Yes), the process proceeds to step S26. On the other hand, if it is determined that the read product code does not match the product code registered in the miniature master 322 (step S25: No), the process proceeds to step S29.

[0098] In step S25, if it is determined that the read product code matches a product code registered in the miniature master 322, the product information display unit 44 reads product information, such as description information, related to the product of the product code read in step S24, from the miniature master 322. Then, the product information display unit 44 displays the read product information, such as description information, on the display device 38 (step S26).

[0099] Next, the sample discharge unit 45 operates the sample discharge mechanism 39 to discharge the sample 49 corresponding to the product with the product code read in step S24 from the discharge port 48 (step S27). In step S26, it is desirable to ensure that product information is reliably conveyed to the customer, so it is preferable to discharge the sample 49 after the display of explanatory information in step S26 has finished.

[0100] The history storage unit 46 associates the information relating to customer 2 identified by the customer identification unit 41 with the product code registered in the RFID tag 6 attached to the miniature 5 inserted from the input slot 47, and stores it in the usage history data 323. After that, the sample vending machine 30 completes the process shown in Figure 9.

[0101] Returning to step S25, if the product code read by the RFID tag reader 43 in step S25 is not determined to match the product code registered in the miniature master 322, the sample dispensing unit 45 causes the display device 38 to display an error (step S29). After that, the sample vending machine 30 terminates the process shown in Figure 9. The error display is notified to the staff via the store server 18. Upon receiving the notification, the staff checks the sample vending machine 30. The case in which the product code read by the RFID tag reader 43 does not match the product code registered in the miniature master 322 is, for example, when a foreign object other than miniature 5 is inserted, or when miniature 5 that is not eligible for sample distribution in the sample vending machine 30 is inserted.

[0102] (Effects of the second embodiment) As described above, the sample provision system 50 (product purchase support system) of the second embodiment comprises a miniature link 10 (product purchase support device) and a sample vending machine 30 (sample provision device). The sample vending machine 30 comprises an RFID tag reader 43 (second wireless tag reader) that reads the RFID tag 6 attached to the miniature 5 inserted from the input slot 47, and a sample dispensing unit 45 that dispenses a sample 49 of the product corresponding to the product code registered in the RFID tag 6 read by the RFID tag reader 43. Therefore, the customer 2 can obtain information related to the object of operation, i.e., the sample 49, while directly touching the miniature 5 that is the object of operation.

[0103] (Third embodiment) A third embodiment of the present disclosure, a vanity system 60, will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0104] (Outline configuration of the vanity system) The schematic configuration of the vanity system 60, which is a third embodiment of this disclosure, will be explained using Figures 10 and 11. Figure 10 is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of the vanity system of the third embodiment. Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating the structure of the mirror signage.

[0105] The vanity system 60 provides customer 2 with a trial experience of the product (cosmetics) modeled by the miniature 5. Specifically, customer 2 can virtually apply makeup using the cosmetics modeled by the miniature 5. The vanity system 60 is an example of a product purchase support device in this disclosure.

[0106] As shown in Figure 10, the vanity system 60 includes a miniature 5, an RFID reader 65, a camera 66, and a mirror signage 73.

[0107] Miniature 5 is a small model that imitates the product, and is the same as the one described in the first embodiment. Miniature 5 is fitted with an RFID tag 6 (an example of a wireless tag) on ​​which identification information (e.g., product code) of the product that Miniature 5 imitates is registered. Note that the RFID tag 6 may be embedded inside Miniature 5.

[0108] Miniature 5 comes in several variations and is stored in drawer 72 of dressing table 71.

[0109] The RFID reader 65 is installed inside each of the drawers 72 and repeatedly reads the information on the RFID tags 6 attached to the miniatures 5 stored in the drawers 72. Alternatively, the RFID reader 65 may be installed inside the dressing table 71 and read the information on the RFID tags 6 attached to the miniatures 5 stored in multiple drawers 72 all at once.

[0110] Camera 66 is positioned facing a mirror signage 73 erected on the dressing table 71 and captures a mirror image 74 (see Figure 11) of customer 2 reflected on the mirror signage 73. The dressing table system 60 detects the position of specific parts of the customer's face (lips, cheeks, around the eyes, nose, etc.) from the captured mirror image 74 of customer 2. Camera 66 also acquires information on customer 2's operation of various controls displayed on the mirror signage 73. Specifically, the dressing table system 60 detects whether customer 2 has brought their finger close to a control displayed on the mirror signage 73 by analyzing the image captured by camera 66. When it is detected that customer 2 has brought their finger close to a control displayed on the mirror signage 73, the dressing table system 60 determines that customer 2 has operated the corresponding control.

[0111] As shown in Figure 11, the mirror signage 73 has a structure in which a liquid crystal panel 67 is laminated on the back side of a mirror 68. The mirror 68 is a mirror glass that reflects some of the incident light and transmits some of it. Customer 2 can see information superimposed on their own mirror image 74 reflected in the mirror 68 by the mirror signage 73, with information 75 displayed on the liquid crystal panel 67 superimposed. The information 75 includes controls for selecting various operation menus performed by the vanity system 60, and explanatory information about the miniature product 5 that customer 2 took out of the drawer 72.

[0112] The mirror signage 73 operates as a mirror 68 when, for example, the liquid crystal panel 67 is in a state where it blocks the backlight. In this case, customer 2 can see their own mirrored image 74. On the other hand, when, for example, the liquid crystal panel 67 is in a state where it transmits the backlight, the information displayed on the liquid crystal panel 67 is illuminated by the backlight and can be seen by customer 2. In this case, customer 2 can see that the information 75 displayed on the liquid crystal panel 67 by the vanity system 60 is superimposed on their own mirrored image 74. Therefore, the vanity system 60 can, for example, apply virtual makeup to customer 2's mirrored image 74. A specific example of makeup will be described in detail later (see Figure 13). Note that the configuration of the mirror signage 73 is not limited to the above, and any configuration in which the information 75 is superimposed on customer 2's mirrored image 74 is acceptable.

[0113] In addition to being installed inside the drawer 72, the RFID reader 65 may also be installed inside a predetermined area on the top surface of the dressing table 71. In that case, when customer 2 takes the miniature 5 out of the drawer 72 and places it in the predetermined area on the dressing table 71, the RFID reader 65 can read the product code attached to the miniature 5, thereby achieving the aforementioned operation.

[0114] Furthermore, the vanity system 60 may be configured to be operated by a miniature 5 that customer 2 has picked up and brought with them using the miniature link 10 described in the first embodiment. In that case, the RFID reader 65 is installed, for example, inside a predetermined area on the top surface of the vanity 71. When customer 2 places the miniature 5 that they brought from the miniature link 10 into the predetermined area, the RFID reader 65 reads the product code attached to the miniature 5, thereby enabling the vanity system 60 to perform the aforementioned operations.

[0115] (Hardware configuration of the vanity system) The hardware configuration of the vanity system 60 will be explained using Figure 12. Figure 12 is a hardware block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the vanity system.

[0116] The vanity system 60 has a configuration in which a control unit 61, a storage unit 62, a peripheral device controller 63, and a communication interface 64 are connected to each other by an internal bus.

[0117] The control unit 61 controls the overall operation of the vanity system 60. The control unit 61 comprises a CPU 611, a ROM 612, and a RAM 613. The CPU 611 connects to the ROM 612 and the RAM 613 via internal buses such as an address bus and a data bus. The CPU 611 loads various programs stored in the ROM 612 and the memory unit 62 into the RAM 613. The CPU 611 controls the operation of the vanity system 60 by operating according to the various programs loaded into the RAM 613. In other words, the control unit 61 has the configuration of a typical computer.

[0118] The storage unit 62 is a storage device such as an HDD or SSD. Alternatively, the storage unit 62 may be a non-volatile memory such as flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off. The storage unit 62 stores the control program 621, the miniature master 622, the RFID tag reference data 623, and the usage history data 624.

[0119] The control program 621 is a program that controls the overall operation of the vanity system 60. The control program 621 may be provided stored in the memory unit 62, or it may be provided as an installable or executable file recorded on a computer-readable non-temporary recording medium such as a CD-ROM, flexible disk (FD), CD-R, or DVD. The control program 621 may also be provided by storing it on a computer connected to a network and downloading it via the network. Furthermore, the control program 621 may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0120] Miniature Master 622 is the same as Miniature Master 122 (see Figure 3) mentioned above.

[0121] The RFID tag reference data 623 is a file that stores the product codes registered to the RFID tags 6 attached to the miniatures 5 that are currently stored in drawer 72.

[0122] The vanity system 60 repeatedly reads the product code, which is the information on the RFID tag 6 attached to the miniature 5 stored in the drawer 72. Each time a product code is read, the system compares the read product code with the RFID tag reference data 623. If the read product code matches all the product codes stored in the RFID tag reference data 623, the vanity system 60 determines that the miniature 5 stored in the drawer 72 has not moved out of the drawer 72. If the read product code is missing from the product codes stored in the RFID tag reference data 623, the vanity system 60 determines that the miniature 5 with the missing product code has been taken by a customer and moved out of the drawer 72. The vanity system 60 then registers the product code read at that time as new RFID tag reference data 623. Furthermore, if the scanned product code is greater than the product code stored in the RFID tag reference data 623, the vanity system 60 determines that the miniature 5, which was previously picked up by the customer, has been returned to the drawer 72. The vanity system 60 then adds the product code that has been added since the last scan to the RFID tag reference data 623.

[0123] Thus, the vanity system 60 determines that the miniature 5 with the product code read at that time is stored in the drawer 72.

[0124] The usage history data 624 is a file that stores information identifying customer 2 who used the vanity system 60, and associates this information with the product code of the miniature 5 that customer 2 moved outside the drawer 72.

[0125] The usage history data 624 is output to the store server 18 immediately or at any time. The store server 18 stores and saves the acquired usage history data 624. The stored usage history data 624 is used to promote products to customer 2. In addition, the stored usage history data 624 can be used to analyze the relationship between customer 2's attributes (age, gender, etc.) and the products that customer 2 is interested in, which can be useful for new product development, etc.

[0126] The control unit 61 is connected via the peripheral device controller 63 to an RFID reader 65, a camera 66, and a liquid crystal panel 67, which input and output various types of information. The details of each input / output device are as described above.

[0127] Furthermore, the control unit 61 communicates with the store server 18 via the communication interface 64. The store server 18 stores and saves the usage history data 624 acquired from the vanity system 60.

[0128] (Example of a vanity system in operation) An example of the operation of the vanity system 60 will be explained using Figure 13. Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of the vanity system.

[0129] As described above, customer 2 can see their own mirror image 74 reflected in the mirror 68 and the information 75 output by the vanity system 60 to the liquid crystal panel 67 superimposed. The vanity system 60 applies virtual makeup to specific facial areas (lips, cheeks, around the eyes, nose, etc.) in customer 2's mirror image 74.

[0130] Figure 13 shows an example of the vanity system 60 performing virtual makeup on the mirror image 74 of customer 2.

[0131] The vanity system 60 displays controls (not shown) on the mirror signage 73, including options for performing virtual makeup. Customer 2 selects an operation menu by bringing their finger close to or touching the controls. At this time, the camera 66 captures a mirror image 74 of customer 2 to detect that customer 2 has brought their finger close to or touched the controls.

[0132] When customer 2 takes out miniature 5 from drawer 72 and selects to perform virtual makeup from the operation menu displayed on mirror signage 73, the vanity system 60 performs virtual makeup on customer 2's mirror image 74, as shown in Figure 13.

[0133] The example shown in Figure 13 illustrates a customer taking miniature lipstick 76 and blush 78 from drawer 72 and performing virtual makeup.

[0134] When virtual makeup is selected, the vanity system 60 reads information about the makeup area and color of the lipstick 76 that customer 2 has taken out of drawer 72 from the miniature master 622, from the mirror image 74 of customer 2 captured by camera 66. The vanity system 60 then detects the lip area 77, which is the makeup area of ​​the lipstick 76, from the mirror image 74 of customer 2 captured by camera 66. Since the detection of various parts of the face from a face image is performed in various technical fields, the specific image processing method can follow these known examples. The vanity system 60 fills in the detected lip area 77 with the color of the makeup read from the miniature master 622. The filled-in information is displayed on the liquid crystal panel 67 and superimposed on the lip area 77 of the mirror image 74, so that customer 2 can see that lipstick 76 has been applied to their lips. Furthermore, camera 66 repeatedly captures a mirror image 74 of customer 2, and each time it captures an image, it detects the lip region 77 and fills in the detected region. Therefore, even if customer 2 moves their face, as long as the lip region 77 is reflected in mirror 68, customer 2 can see the effect of virtual makeup regardless of their own posture.

[0135] Furthermore, the vanity system 60 reads information about the makeup area related to the blush 78 that customer 2 took out of the drawer 72 from the miniature master 622, from the mirror image 74 of customer 2 captured by the camera 66, as well as information about the makeup color. The vanity system 60 then detects the cheek area 79, which is the makeup area for the blush 78, from the mirror image 74 of customer 2 captured by the camera 66. Since the detection of various parts of the face from a face image is performed in various technical fields, the specific image processing method can follow these known examples. The vanity system 60 fills in the detected cheek area 79 with the makeup color read from the miniature master 622. The filled-in information is displayed on the liquid crystal panel 67 and superimposed on the cheek area 79 of the mirror image 74, so that customer 2 can see that the blush 78 has been applied to their cheeks. Furthermore, camera 66 repeatedly captures a mirror image 74 of customer 2, and each time it captures an image, it detects the cheek region 79 and fills in the detected region. Therefore, even if customer 2 moves their face, as long as the cheek region 79 is reflected in mirror 68, customer 2 can see the virtual effect of the makeup regardless of their own posture.

[0136] Furthermore, when performing virtual makeup using cosmetics that allow selection of multiple colors, such as a makeup palette, the vanity system 60 displays an image of a makeup palette (not shown) on the mirror signage 73. Customer 2 can select the color they want to try from the makeup palette displayed on the mirror signage 73 by bringing their finger close to the position where the color is displayed, and then experience virtual makeup using the selected color. If, after performing virtual makeup, the customer finds a color they like or a color that suits them, they can obtain a sample product 49 from the sample vending machine 30 mentioned above and actually apply makeup using the sample product 49 at the vanity 71.

[0137] (Functional configuration of the vanity system) The functional configuration of the vanity system 60 will be explained using Figure 14. Figure 14 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the vanity system.

[0138] The control unit 61 of the vanity system 60 deploys the control program 621 to the RAM 613 and operates it, thereby realizing the following functional units as shown in Figure 14: the customer identification unit 81, the RFID tag reading unit 82, the miniature movement determination unit 83, the product information display unit 84, the operation information acquisition unit 85, the face part detection unit 86, the virtual makeup execution unit 87, and the history storage unit 88. Some or all of these functional units may be realized by dedicated hardware.

[0139] The customer identification unit 81 determines whether customer 2 is reflected in the mirror 68. The customer identification unit 81 also identifies who customer 2 is reflected in the mirror 68.

[0140] The method by which the customer identification unit 81 identifies customers is not limited, but similar to the customer identification unit 21 described above, it is sufficient to assign a unique identification number to the facial image captured when the customer enters the store 8 (see Figure 16), and then track the person in the facial image using multiple cameras installed in the store to determine the customer's location. Alternatively, if the customer has a membership card for store 8, the membership card may be read using a card reader (not shown) installed on the dressing table 71, and the aforementioned identification number may be replaced with the membership number to determine the customer's location.

[0141] The RFID tag reader 82 repeatedly reads the product code registered on the RFID tag 6 from the miniature 5, which is placed in the drawer 72, i.e., a predetermined area, and is fitted with an RFID tag 6 on which a product code has been registered. The RFID tag reader 82 is an example of the first wireless tag reader in this disclosure.

[0142] The miniature movement determination unit 83 determines, on the condition that the RFID tag reader 82 has detected that there is an RFID tag 6 that can no longer be read, that the miniature 5 to which the unreadable RFID tag 6 is attached has moved outside the drawer 72, that is, has been removed from the drawer 72. The miniature movement determination unit 83 is an example of an article movement determination unit in this disclosure.

[0143] The product information display unit 84 superimposes product information, such as a description of the product that the miniature movement determination unit 83 has determined to have been taken out of the drawer 72, onto the mirror image 74 of the customer 2 reflected in the mirror 68.

[0144] The operation information acquisition unit 85 acquires operation instructions from customer 2 regarding the information 75 displayed on the mirror signage 73. Specifically, the operation information acquisition unit 85 processes the images captured by the camera 66 to detect when customer 2 brings their finger close to or touches one of the various controls displayed on the mirror signage 73.

[0145] When the vanity system 60 performs virtual makeup, the face area detection unit 86 detects the areas of the face corresponding to the cosmetics being used from the mirror image 74 of the customer 2 captured by the camera 66.

[0146] The virtual makeup execution unit 87 applies virtual makeup to the facial area corresponding to the product, as detected by the facial area detection unit 86 from the mirror image 74 of customer 2, using the product (cosmetics) that the customer 2 takes out of the drawer 72, which is modeled after the miniature 5.

[0147] The history storage unit 88 associates the information relating to customer 2 identified by the customer identification unit 81 with the product code registered in the RFID tag 6 attached to the miniature 5 taken out by customer 2 from the drawer 72, and stores it in the usage history data 624. The history storage unit 25 is an example of a storage unit in this disclosure.

[0148] (Process flow performed by the vanity system) Figure 15 illustrates the processing flow of the vanity system 60. Figure 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the vanity system.

[0149] The customer identification unit 81 determines whether there is a customer at the dressing table 71 (step S31). If it is determined that there is a customer at the dressing table 71 (step S31: Yes), the process proceeds to step S32. On the other hand, if it is not determined that there is a customer at the dressing table 71 (step S31: No), the process repeats step S31. The customer identification unit 21 determines that there is a customer at the dressing table 71 if a person is visible in the image captured by the camera 66.

[0150] In step S31, if it is determined that there is a customer at the dressing table 71, the customer identification unit 81 identifies the customer (step S32). The customer identification unit 81 identifies the customer, for example, by comparing the facial image of the customer who entered the store 8 with the facial image of the customer captured by the camera 66, as described above.

[0151] The RFID tag reader 82 reads the product code registered in the RFID tag 6 attached to the miniature 5 stored in the drawer 72 (step S33).

[0152] The miniature movement determination unit 83 determines whether the product code read in step S33 matches a product code registered in the RFID tag reference data 623 (step S34). If it is determined that the read product code matches a product code registered in the RFID tag reference data 623 (step S34: Yes), the process returns to step S31. On the other hand, if it is determined that the read product code does not match a product code stored in the RFID tag reference data 623 (step S34: No), the process proceeds to step S35.

[0153] In step S34, if the read product code is not determined to match a product code registered in the RFID tag reference data 623, the miniature movement determination unit 83 identifies a product code from the RFID tag reference data 623 that could not be read in step S33 (step S35). The miniature movement determination unit 83 determines that the miniature 5 with the product code identified in step S35 has moved out of the drawer 72, that is, the customer has taken out the miniature 5.

[0154] The miniature movement determination unit 83 updates the RFID tag reference data 623 by deleting the product code identified in step S35 from the product codes stored in the RFID tag reference data 623 (step S36).

[0155] The product information display unit 84 reads product information, such as product description information, from the miniature master 622, which has the product code identified in step S35, and displays it on the liquid crystal panel 67 (step S37). As a result, the mirror signage 73 displays product information, such as product description information, for the product that the customer took out of the drawer 72.

[0156] The operation information acquisition unit 85 determines whether customer 2 has instructed the virtual makeup to be performed (step S38). If it is determined that customer 2 has instructed the virtual makeup to be performed (step S38: Yes), the process proceeds to step S39. On the other hand, if it is not determined that customer 2 has instructed the virtual makeup to be performed (step S38: No), the process proceeds to step S40. It is determined that customer 2 has instructed the virtual makeup to be performed when customer 2 brings their finger close to the operator that instructs the virtual makeup to be performed, which is displayed on the mirror signage 73.

[0157] In step S38, if it is determined that customer 2 has instructed the virtual makeup to be performed, the virtual makeup execution unit 87 performs the virtual makeup as described in Figure 13 (step S39).

[0158] The operation information acquisition unit 85 determines whether customer 2 has instructed the vanity system 60 to shut down (step S40). If it is determined that customer 2 has instructed the vanity system 60 to shut down (step S40: Yes), the process proceeds to step S41. On the other hand, if it is not determined that customer 2 has instructed the vanity system 60 to shut down (step S40: No), the process returns to step S37. It is determined that customer 2 has instructed the vanity system 60 to shut down when customer 2 brings their finger close to the operator displayed on the mirror signage 73 that instructs the vanity system 60 to shut down.

[0159] In step S40, if it is determined that customer 2 has instructed the vanity system 60 to end, the history storage unit 88 associates the information related to customer 2, the product code of the miniature 5 that customer 2 took out of drawer 72, and the virtual makeup execution history (makeup area, makeup color, etc.) performed by customer 2, and stores it in the usage history data 624 (step S41). After that, the vanity system 60 ends the process shown in Figure 15.

[0160] (Effects and Effects of a Modified Example of the Third Embodiment) As described above, in the vanity system 60 (product purchase support device) of the third embodiment, the miniature 5 (item) is a cosmetic sample, and the product information display unit 84 (information display unit) superimposes product information, such as explanatory information, related to the product that the miniature 5 imitates onto when the miniature movement determination unit 83 (item movement determination unit) determines that the miniature 5 has moved outside the drawer 72 onto the mirror image 74 of the customer 2 reflected in the mirror 68. Therefore, the customer 2 can obtain information related to the miniature 5 while directly touching the miniature 5.

[0161] (Description of stores to which each embodiment of this disclosure applies) Using Figure 16, we will describe a store 8 to which each embodiment of the present disclosure is applied. Figure 16 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a store to which each embodiment of the present disclosure is applied.

[0162] Store 8 is equipped with the Miniature Link 10, an example of the aforementioned product purchase support device, a sample vending machine 30, and a vanity system 60.

[0163] The faces of customers entering the store through entrance 9 are captured by a camera (not shown) installed at the entrance, and their location within store 8 is tracked using the identification number assigned at that time. Alternatively, customers may have their membership number, registered on their store 8 membership card, read by a reader (not shown) at the entrance or at each product purchase support device, and their location within store 8 may be tracked by associating the membership number with their facial image instead of the identification number.

[0164] Near entrance 9, there is a cosmetics information gathering, counseling, and experience corner 101 (hereinafter simply referred to as experience corner 101). A miniature link 10 is installed in this corner. Customers operate the miniature link 10, and if they find a product they like, they pick up a miniature 5 that is modeled after the product and check the product description information of the miniature 5. Then, if the customer wants a sample 49 of the product, they take the miniature 5 they picked up and move to the sample distribution corner 102.

[0165] At the back of the experience corner 101, there is a sample distribution corner 102. A sample vending machine 30 is installed in this corner. Customers who pick up a miniature 5 at the miniature link 10 can insert the miniature 5 into the sample vending machine 30 and receive a sample 49. After that, customers move to the self-makeup corner 103 or the product selection corner 104.

[0166] A vanity system 60 is installed in the self-makeup corner 103. Customers who move to the self-makeup corner 103 can take out miniature 5 models of products they are interested in from the drawer 72 of the vanity 71, and view product descriptions or try virtual makeup. If they find a cosmetic product they like, they can obtain a sample 49 from the sample vending machine 30 and actually try applying the makeup. After that, the customer moves to the product selection corner 104.

[0167] In the product selection corner 104, actual products are displayed, and customers can select and purchase the products they want. Alternatively, in the product selection corner 104, when a customer places the miniature 5 they are holding in a specific location, the product code registered in the RFID tag 6 attached to the miniature 5 is read, and the registration of the product with that product code is completed.

[0168] Customers who select (register) items at the item selection counter 104 proceed to checkout counter 105.

[0169] Afterward, customers can move to rest area 106 to take a break.

[0170] Customers who have finished shopping will exit through entrance 9. A facial image of the customer will also be captured upon exit. At that point, the facial image of the customer who has left the store will be removed from the list of customers being tracked, and the tracking of the departing customer will end.

[0171] The above describes a typical customer route in store 8, but customers do not necessarily have to follow this route.

[0172] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. This novel embodiment can be implemented 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 variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0173] 2 customers 3 tables 4 containers 5. Miniatures (items) 6. RFID tags (wireless tags) 7. Explanatory Information 8 stores 9 Entrance / exit 10. Miniature Link (product purchase support device) 11 Control Unit 12 Storage section 15,37,65 RFID readers 16 cameras 17 Projector 18 Store Servers 19 Control device 21,41,81 Customer identification department 22.82 RFID tag reader (first wireless tag reader) 23,83 Miniature Movement Judgment Unit (Item Movement Judgment Unit) 24,44,84 Product information presentation department (information presentation department) 25,46,88 History storage unit (memory unit) 30 Sample vending machines (devices that provide free samples) 31 Control Unit 32 Storage section 35 Camera 36 Transmissive Optical Sensor 38 Display Devices 39 Sample discharge mechanism 42 Miniature input detection unit 43 RFID tag reader (second wireless tag reader) 45 Sample discharge section 47 Inlet 48 Outlet 49 Samples 50. Sample Provision System (Product Purchase Support System) 60 Vanity System (Product Purchase Support Device) 66 Cameras 67 LCD panel 68 Mirror 71 Dressing table 72 drawers 73 Mirror Signage 74 Mirror image 75 Information 85 Operation information acquisition section 86 Face area detection unit 87 Virtual Makeup Execution Department 122,322,622 Miniature Master 123,623 RFID tag reference data 124,323,624 Usage history data [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0174] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-063860

Claims

1. A first wireless tag reader repeatedly reads the identification information from an item with a wireless tag attached that has product identification information registered to it, which is placed in a predetermined area. A first wireless tag reader detects that there is a wireless tag that can no longer be read, and a property movement determination unit determines that the property to which the unreadable wireless tag is attached has moved outside the area. An information display unit that displays information about the product relating to an item that has been determined to have moved outside the said area, A customer identification unit that identifies the customer who moved the aforementioned item outside the area, A storage unit that stores information relating to the customer identified by the customer identification unit and identification information of the items moved by the customer outside the area, Equipped with Product purchase support device.

2. The aforementioned item is a miniature model of the product. The product purchase support device according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned article is a cosmetic sample, The information display unit superimposes information relating to the product that the item determined to have moved outside the area has moved onto the mirror image of the customer reflected in the mirror. The product purchase support device according to claim 2.

4. A product purchase support device according to claim 1 or claim 2, A second wireless tag reader reads the wireless tag attached to an item that has been inserted through the input opening and is determined to have moved outside the area, The sample dispensing device includes a sample dispensing unit that dispenses a sample of a product corresponding to the identification information registered in the wireless tag read by the second wireless tag reader. Product purchase support system.

5. The computer that controls the item information acquisition device A first wireless tag reader repeatedly reads the identification information from an item with a wireless tag attached that has product identification information registered to it, which is placed in a predetermined area. A first wireless tag reader detects that there is a wireless tag that can no longer be read, and a property movement determination unit determines that the property to which the unreadable wireless tag is attached has moved outside the area. An information display unit that displays information about the product relating to an item that has been determined to have moved outside the said area, A customer identification unit that identifies the customer who moved the aforementioned item outside the area, A storage unit that stores information relating to the customer identified by the customer identification unit and identification information of the items moved by the customer outside the area, A program that can be made to function.

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