Restaurant management system and restaurant management method

Abstract

The detection unit detects specific actions of customers staying in each of the multiple dining spaces. The event execution system executes events in each dining space. The control unit controls the restaurant management system. When the detection timing for the detection unit to perform detection of a specific customer action arrives in each of the multiple dining spaces, the control unit acquires the detection result of the specific action for the customer in the dining space where the detection timing has arrived. Based on the acquired detection result, the control unit controls the content of the event to be executed by the event execution system in the corresponding dining space.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a restaurant management system and a restaurant management method for managing events executed in a restaurant.

Background Art

[0002] Techniques for executing events in a restaurant are known. For example, the device described in Patent Document 1 detects that a plate has been collected in a plate collection unit, and when the collection of a predetermined number of plates is detected, it generates pseudo-random number information and compares it with winning information. When the pseudo-random number information matches the winning information, a prize in the storage container is discharged. Also known is a technique for playing a game on a monitor provided for each dining space when the result of an order of food and drink by a customer satisfies a predetermined condition.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to the technique described in Patent Document 1, customers can enjoy dining while enjoying the executed event. Here, the inventor of the present invention has conducted trials and studies on a new technique for further entertaining customers who visit a restaurant. In the conventional technique, when a specific action of a customer (for example, the action of collecting a plate in the plate collection unit in Patent Document 1) satisfies a predetermined condition (a predetermined number of times in Patent Document 1), an event is executed. Therefore, the opportunity to control the content of the event (for example, whether the event can be executed or not) is only controlled by the customer, and the restaurant side cannot control it. If the opportunity to control the content of the event can be controlled by the restaurant side, customers can enjoy dining while expecting the opportunity to come, and it is possible to provide additional value to the customers.

[0005] A typical purpose of this disclosure is to provide a restaurant management system and a restaurant management method that can further entertain customers visiting the restaurant through events.

[0006] A first aspect of a restaurant management system provided by a typical embodiment in this disclosure is a restaurant management system used in a restaurant having multiple dining spaces where customers eat and drink, and which manages events that take place inside the restaurant, A conveying device for conveying objects including food and beverages along a conveying path, and objects conveyed along the conveying path by the conveying device and arranged along the conveying path. The system comprises a detection unit that detects specific actions of customers staying in each of the multiple dining spaces, an event execution system that executes events in each of the dining spaces, and a control unit. The control unit, when a detection timing occurs in each of the multiple dining spaces for the detection unit to detect the specific actions of a customer, acquires the detection result of the specific action of the customer in the dining space where the detection timing has occurred, and controls the content of the event to be executed by the event execution system in the corresponding dining space based on the acquired detection result.

[0007] A second aspect of the restaurant management system provided by a typical embodiment of this disclosure is a restaurant management system installed in a restaurant having multiple dining spaces where customers eat and drink, comprising a conveying device for transporting objects including food and beverages along a transport route, The transport device transports along the transport path,The system comprises a display device that displays a predetermined image to customers in the dining space, and a control unit, wherein the plurality of dining spaces are arranged along the transport path, and the display device includes a camera that detects at least one of a specific action, such as facial expression or gesture, of a customer staying in each of the plurality of dining spaces by taking a picture of it, and a display unit that displays the image, the control unit determines whether or not it is a specific timing, and if it determines that it is a specific timing, it causes the display unit to display the image so that it moves from upstream to downstream along the transport path in the dining space, obtains the detection result of the customer's specific action in relation to the image from the camera, and changes the image displayed by the display unit based on the obtained detection result of the specific action. A third aspect of a restaurant management system provided by a typical embodiment of the present disclosure is a restaurant management system used in a restaurant equipped with multiple dining spaces where customers eat and drink, and which manages events performed inside the restaurant, comprising: a transport device for transporting objects including food and beverages along a transport path; a mobile terminal device having a display unit and a controller, which is transported along the transport path by the transport device; a detection unit for detecting specific actions of customers staying in each of the multiple dining spaces; an event execution system for performing events in each of the multiple dining spaces; and a control unit, wherein the multiple dining spaces are arranged along the transport path, and the control unit, in each of the multiple dining spaces, acquires the detection result of the specific action of the customer in the dining space where the detection timing has arrived, when the mobile terminal device being transported by the transport device arrives in each of the multiple dining spaces and a detection timing has arrived which is the timing for the detection unit to perform detection of the specific action of the customer, and controls the content of the event to be performed by the event execution system in the corresponding dining space based on the acquired detection result.

[0008] A first aspect of a typical embodiment of a restaurant management method provided in this disclosure is a restaurant management method used in a restaurant having multiple dining spaces where customers eat and drink, and which is implemented in a restaurant management system that manages events taking place inside the restaurant, wherein the restaurant management system is A conveying device for conveying objects including food and beverages along a conveying path, and objects conveyed along the conveying path by the conveying device and arranged along the conveying path. The system comprises a detection unit that detects specific behaviors of customers staying in each of the multiple dining spaces, and an event execution system that executes events in each of the multiple dining spaces, and includes the steps of: obtaining the detection result of the specific behavior of a customer in each of the multiple dining spaces for a customer in the dining space for whom the detection timing for the detection unit to detect the specific behavior of the customer has arrived; and controlling the content of an event to be executed by the event execution system in the corresponding dining space based on the obtained detection result.

[0009] A second aspect of the restaurant management method provided by a typical embodiment of this disclosure is a restaurant management method performed in a restaurant management system installed in a restaurant having multiple dining spaces where customers eat and drink, the restaurant management system comprising: a transport device for transporting objects including food and beverages along a transport route; a display device transported along the transport route by the transport device and displaying a predetermined image to customers in the dining spaces, the multiple dining spaces being arranged along the transport route, and the display device comprising: a camera for detecting at least one of a specific action of a customer staying in each of the multiple dining spaces, namely facial expressions and gestures, by taking a photograph of it; and a display unit for displaying the image, the method comprising: a step of determining whether or not it is a specific timing; if it is determined to be a specific timing, a step of displaying the image on the display unit so that it moves from upstream to downstream along the transport route in the dining space; a step of obtaining the detection result of the customer's specific action in relation to the image from the camera; and a step of changing the image displayed by the display unit based on the obtained detection result of the specific action. .

[0010] A third aspect of the restaurant management method provided by a typical embodiment of this disclosure is a restaurant management method used in a restaurant having multiple dining spaces where customers eat and drink, and which is implemented in a restaurant management system that manages events taking place inside the restaurant, the restaurant management system being used in a restaurant having multiple dining spaces where customers eat and drink, and which manages events taking place inside the restaurant, comprising: a transport device that transports objects including food and beverages along a transport path; a mobile terminal device having a display unit and a controller, which is transported along the transport path by the transport device; a detection unit that detects specific actions of customers staying in each of the multiple dining spaces; and each of the dining spaces The system includes an event execution system that executes events at a given space, wherein the multiple dining spaces are arranged along a circulating transport path, and in each of the multiple dining spaces, when a detection timing arrives which is the timing when the mobile terminal device being transported by the transport device arrives at each of the multiple dining spaces and the detection unit performs detection of a specific customer action, the system includes the steps of obtaining the detection result of the specific action of a customer in the dining space where the detection timing has arrived, and controlling the content of an event to be executed by the event execution system in the corresponding dining space based on the obtained detection result. .

[0011] According to the restaurant management system and restaurant management method described herein, it is possible to further entertain customers who visit restaurants through events. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing a part of the configuration in the guest room area of ​​the restaurant management system 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a plan view showing the configuration of the restaurant management system 1 of the first embodiment, mainly related to the circulating transport device 20. [Figure 3] Block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the restaurant management system 1 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This diagram compares the images displayed on the display unit 63 by the mobile terminal device 60 before and after the detection of the customer's smile. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart of the event control processing performed by the restaurant management system 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a plan view showing the configuration of the restaurant management system 200 of the second embodiment, mainly related to the order conveying device 5. [Figure 7] Block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the restaurant management system 200 according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of a display unit 73 of a customer terminal device 7 that displays multiple item-related images 80 while moving them. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart of the event control processing performed by the restaurant management system 200 of the second embodiment. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of the display unit 73 of the customer terminal device 7, after some time has passed since the state shown in Figure 8, and event-related images 90 have been added and are now displayed. [Figure 11] This figure shows an example of a display unit 73 of a customer terminal device 73 that displays event-related images 91 in a modified restaurant management system 200. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] <Summary> The first aspect of the food and beverage store management system exemplified in the present disclosure is used in a food and beverage store where a plurality of food and beverage spaces for customers to eat and drink are installed, and manages events executed inside the food and beverage store. The food and beverage store management system exemplified in the present disclosure includes a detection unit, an event execution system, and a control unit. The detection unit detects specific actions of customers staying in each of the plurality of food and beverage spaces. The event execution system executes an event in each food and beverage space. The control unit controls the food and beverage store management system. When the detection timing for detecting the specific actions of customers by the detection unit arrives in each of the plurality of food and beverage spaces, the control unit acquires the detection result of the specific actions by the detection unit for the customers in the food and beverage space where the detection timing has arrived. Based on the acquired detection result, the control unit controls the content of the event to be executed by the event execution system in the corresponding food and beverage space.

[0014] In this case, when the detection timing by the detection unit arrives, the detection results of the specific actions of the customers in each food and beverage space are acquired, and the content of the event in each food and beverage space is controlled according to the acquired detection results. Therefore, the food and beverage store can control the opportunity to control the content of the event (that is, the opportunity to acquire the detection result of the specific action) by appropriately setting the detection timing by the detection unit. As a result, customers can enjoy eating and drinking while expecting the opportunity for the content of the event to be controlled to arrive. Therefore, according to the technology of the present disclosure, customers coming to the food and beverage store can be made to enjoy themselves more by the event.

[0015] Note that the control unit that controls the food service management system can use the control units of various devices. For example, at least a part of the plurality of processes exemplified in the present disclosure may be executed by the control unit of the main control device that controls the entire food service management system, or may be executed by the control unit of another device (for example, at least any one of the mobile terminal device and the customer terminal device described later). Further, the control units of a plurality of devices may cooperate to execute the processes exemplified in the present disclosure.

[0016] The detection unit may be a non-contact detection unit that detects a specific action without contacting the customer. For example, the detection unit may detect a specific action of the customer that is different from an operation on the touch panel (including an operation on a non-contact touch panel).

[0017] In this case, even if the customer does not perform an action to contact the detection unit, a specific action of the customer is appropriately detected by the non-contact detection unit. Therefore, even while the customer is continuing to eat or drink, a specific action of the customer is likely to be appropriately detected. Thus, it becomes easier to appropriately control the event without the customer interrupting eating or drinking.

[0018] Note that various detection units can be adopted as the non-contact detection unit. For example, at least any one of a camera capable of photographing the customer and a microphone capable of detecting a sound (such as voice or applause) made by the customer may be adopted as the non-contact detection unit. However, although details will be described later, it is also possible to realize a part of the technology exemplified in the present disclosure by using a contact detection unit (including a non-contact touch panel) that detects a specific action by contacting the customer.

[0019] The detection unit may detect at least any one of the customer's expression, gesture, and sound made by the customer as a specific action without contacting the customer.

[0020] In this case, the content of the event is controlled based on the detection results of at least one of the customer's facial expressions, gestures, and sounds (voice or applause, etc.), making it possible to implement new events in restaurants that were not previously possible. Therefore, it is possible to make customers who visit restaurants even more enjoyable. The gestures to be detected can also be selected as appropriate. For example, at least one of the gestures, such as body language, hand gestures, or mannerisms, that express emotions or intentions using a part of the body (e.g., hands) or the whole body may be detected. In addition, at least one of the gestures, such as facial expressions, posture, or gaze, which are means of conveying information other than language, may also be detected.

[0021] The detection unit may include a camera capable of capturing a customer's face. The detection unit may detect at least one of the number and degree of smiles of the customer whose face has been captured as a specific action of the customer.

[0022] In this case, the event content changes in response to the customer's smile, creating an incentive for customers to smile. Consequently, more customers are more likely to smile in the restaurant, allowing them to enjoy their food and drinks in a more pleasant atmosphere. In short, the restaurant management system enables restaurants to implement new events that can bring smiles to more customers. Furthermore, customers can even have their smiles detected while they are eating or drinking. Therefore, customers can participate in the event without interrupting their meal or drink.

[0023] The detection unit may detect a customer's actions toward a moving object within the customer's field of view as a specific action. In this case, the customer can change the content of the event by performing a specific action toward the moving object within their field of view. Therefore, as customers follow the moving object with their eyes and act in a way that maximizes the detection of their specific action, their motivation to have the detection unit detect their specific action is easily increased. Thus, the customer can be made to enjoy the experience even more.

[0024] The specific configuration of the moving object can be selected as appropriate. For example, the moving object may be a tangible object transported horizontally by a transport device (which may be either the circulating transport device or the order transport device described herein). As will be described in detail later, the moving object may be the detection unit itself transported by the transport device. In this case, customers can eat and drink while expecting the tangible moving object to be transported by the transport device. Alternatively, the moving object may be a digital image that moves and is displayed within the display area of ​​a display unit installed in each dining space. The digital image may move horizontally within the display area as if transported on a lane that mimics a physical transport device. For example, the moving object, which is a digital image, may be an event-related image that moves and is displayed within the display area of ​​a customer terminal device (details will be described later). In this case, customers perform specific actions while following the digital image moving within the display area with their eyes. Therefore, customer motivation to detect specific actions is more likely to increase. As described above, the restaurant management system may be installed in a conveyor belt sushi restaurant equipped with a means of transport (a transport device or a terminal device that displays digital images) that moves tangible products or digital images corresponding to product items within the customer's field of vision. The detection unit may also detect specific customer behaviors when the customer is facing the means of transport. In this case, customers visiting a conveyor belt sushi restaurant can be properly entertained.

[0025] The event execution system may perform a lottery process, and if the result of the lottery is a win, it may provide a benefit to the customer in the relevant dining space. The control unit may control the provision of benefits by the event execution system based on the acquired detection results.

[0026] In this case, the provision of rewards by the event execution system is controlled according to the detection results of specific customer actions at the time of detection. Therefore, customers have an incentive to act in a way that maximizes the benefits they receive when the detection unit detects them. Thus, the customer's enjoyment at the time of detection is more easily and appropriately enhanced.

[0027] Specific methods for controlling the provision of rewards based on the detection results of specific actions can be selected as appropriate. For example, the control unit may control whether or not the event execution system executes a lottery process based on the detection results of a specific action. The control unit may also control the probability of winning the lottery process by the event execution system based on the detection results of a specific action. Furthermore, the control unit may control the content of the rewards provided to the customer by the event execution system if the lottery process results in a win, based on the detection results of a specific action. In any case, controlling the provision of rewards by the event execution system based on the detection results of a specific action makes it easier to appropriately enhance the customer's enjoyment when the detection timing arrives.

[0028] Furthermore, the rewards provided by the event execution device when the lottery results in a win may be physical rewards (e.g., prizes, discount coupons, or food and beverages) or electronic rewards (e.g., at least one of the following: a discount service, the opportunity to play a specific game, or the display of a specific image on a display unit). Physical rewards such as food and beverages may be delivered to the dining area of ​​the customer who is the recipient of the reward by an order delivery device (details of which will be described later) or the like.

[0029] As an example, the event execution system described in one of the embodiments below comprises a customer terminal device and a reward provision device installed in each dining space. The control unit performs a lottery process when predetermined event execution conditions are met and notifies the customer terminal device of the lottery results. The control unit also outputs an instruction to the reward provision device in the corresponding dining space to provide the reward if the lottery result is a win. The control unit that performs the lottery process may be the control unit of the main control unit described above, or it may be the control unit of the customer terminal device. The customer terminal device may notify the customer of the lottery results by displaying an image on a display unit and generating sound through a speaker, or by any other means.

[0030] However, it is also possible to change the specific content of the events that the event execution system performs. For example, the event execution system may perform an event that provides benefits to customers of the relevant dining space without performing the lottery process described above, when the predetermined event execution conditions are met. In this case as well, the benefits provided to customers may be physical benefits or electronic benefits, as described above.

[0031] The control unit may calculate points corresponding to the detection results of a specific action based on the detection results from the detection unit. If the calculated points meet predetermined event execution conditions, the control unit may execute an event using the event execution system in the dining space that meets the conditions.

[0032] In this case, the event is executed in the dining space where the points calculated based on the detection results of specific actions meet the predetermined event execution conditions. Therefore, customers can more easily obtain the opportunity to execute the event by actively performing specific actions that maximize point calculation when the detection timing arrives. Thus, the customer's enjoyment when the detection timing arrives can be further enhanced appropriately.

[0033] For example, if a non-contact detection unit is used, customers can more easily obtain an opportunity to participate in the event by performing a specific action while eating or drinking without touching the detection unit when the detection timing arrives. For instance, if smiling is detected as a specific action, customers can also easily obtain an opportunity to participate in the event by smiling while eating or drinking. Therefore, customers can easily obtain an opportunity to participate in the event without interrupting their eating or drinking.

[0034] The specific method for calculating points based on the detection results of a particular action can be appropriately selected. For example, the control unit may calculate points based on the number of times the detection unit detects a particular action. The control unit may execute an event if the points calculated based on the number of detections meet predetermined event execution conditions. Alternatively, the detection unit may be able to detect the degree of a particular action. The control unit may calculate points based on the degree of the particular action detected by the detection unit, and execute an event if the calculated points meet predetermined event execution conditions.

[0035] Further explanation will describe an example of how to control an event when a detection unit detects the degree of a specific action (e.g., smiling). For example, the control unit may calculate points (degree points) corresponding to the degree of the specific action detected by the detection unit. The control unit may also calculate points (detection count points) each time the degree points exceed a threshold. Specifically, the control unit may calculate degree points each time a detection timing occurs by the detection unit, and add "1" to the detection count points when the calculated degree points are equal to or greater than the first threshold. The control unit may execute an event when the cumulative number of calculated detection count points satisfies the event execution condition based on the number of detections (e.g., "5"). Alternatively, a condition may be defined as the event execution condition based on degree, where the degree points calculated according to the detection result of a specific action are equal to or greater than the second threshold, which is greater than the first threshold. In this case, the control unit may execute an event when the calculated degree points satisfy the event execution condition based on degree (second threshold or greater), regardless of whether the event execution condition based on the number of detections is met. It goes without saying that you can only adopt one of the two conditions for event execution: one based on the number of detections, and the other based on the degree of detection.

[0036] The number of times or time periods during which an event is executed for the same customer by the event execution system, based on whether the calculated points meet the event execution conditions, may be limited to a predetermined number of times or time periods.

[0037] If there are no restrictions on the number of times and time slots during which point-based events are performed for the same customer, customers who have finished eating and drinking may linger in the dining area for extended periods in the hope of receiving point-based events. In contrast, by limiting the number of times and time slots during which point-based events are performed for the same customer, the likelihood of customers extending their stay solely for point-based events is appropriately reduced. As a result, the restaurant management system can appropriately entertain customers with events while preventing long waiting times for other customers until dining space becomes available.

[0038] The specific method for restricting the time period during which the event takes place can be chosen as appropriate. For example, the time period during which the event takes place may be limited by restricting the elapsed time from when a particular customer begins staying in the dining area until the event ends. Alternatively, the time period during which the event takes place may be restricted to a specific time slot (e.g., from X to Y), regardless of the length of time customers stay in the dining area. In this case, the restaurant may also be able to increase the number of customers visiting during that specific time slot.

[0039] The restaurant management system may further include a transport device that transports objects, including food and beverages, along a transport route. Multiple dining spaces may be arranged along the transport route of the transport device. A detection unit may detect specific actions of customers who are transported along the transport route by the transport device and are staying in dining spaces arranged along the transport route.

[0040] In this case, when the detection unit is transported to a specific dining area by the transport device, there is a possibility that the detection unit will detect specific actions of customers staying in that dining area. Therefore, customers staying in the dining area can not only expect their desired food and drinks to be delivered by the transport device, but also enjoy their meal while expecting the detection unit to be delivered to their dining area by the transport device. Thus, the restaurant management system can further enhance the dining experience for customers visiting the restaurant.

[0041] The restaurant management system may further include a display unit that is transported along a transport route by a transport device together with the detection unit. The control unit may cause the display unit to display the detection results of specific actions detected and acquired by the detection unit for each dining space.

[0042] In this case, customers staying in the dining area can easily understand the detection result of a specific action when that action is detected by the detection unit, which has been transported to their dining area by the transport device. This can be done through the display content of the display unit, which has been transported along with the detection unit. Furthermore, by transporting both the detection unit and the display unit together by the transport device, the restaurant management system can more strongly attract the attention of customers staying in the dining area to the transported detection unit and display unit compared to transporting only the detection unit. As a result, customers can more easily recognize that the detection unit has been transported to their dining area, and the accuracy of the detection unit's detection of specific actions can also be improved. Therefore, events that utilize the detection results from the detection unit can be executed more appropriately.

[0043] However, it is also possible to change the specific method for informing customers of the detection results from the detection unit. For example, the control unit may display the detection results of a specific action on a display unit located in each dining space (for example, the display unit of the customer terminal device described later). The control unit may also notify customers of the detection results of a specific action by voice or other means.

[0044] The restaurant management system may further include a mobile terminal device. The mobile terminal device has a detection unit and a display unit and is transported along a transport route by a transport device. As the mobile terminal device is transported by the transport device, the detection unit and display unit of the mobile terminal device may also be transported by the transport device.

[0045] In this case, the restaurant management system can strongly attract the attention of customers staying in the dining area to the mobile terminal device being transported. As a result, customers can more easily recognize that a mobile terminal device with a detection unit has been transported to their dining area, and the accuracy of the detection unit of the mobile terminal device in detecting specific actions can also be improved. Furthermore, the controller of the mobile terminal device can be used as at least part of the control unit of the restaurant management system (for example, a control unit that performs the detection processing of specific actions and the display processing of the detection results on the display unit). Therefore, events that utilize the detection results from the detection unit can be executed more appropriately.

[0046] The transport device may be a circulating transport device that transports an object including a detection unit along a circulating transport path within the store. The control unit may acquire transport location identification information that identifies which of the multiple dining spaces arranged along the circulating transport path the detection unit being transported by the circulating transport device is being transported to. Based on the acquired transport location identification information, the control unit may define the timing at which the detection unit being transported by the circulating transport device arrives at each of the multiple dining spaces as the detection timing for the detection unit in each dining space.

[0047] In this case, the detection unit is transported throughout the store by a circulating transport device. Therefore, the detection unit is transported to each dining space multiple times by the circulating transport device. In other words, the timing for detecting a specific customer action in each dining space occurs repeatedly each time the detection unit completes one full circuit of the circulating transport path. As a result, customers can repeatedly expect the detection unit to be transported to the dining space where they are staying and their specific action to be detected, thus enhancing their enjoyment of the event. Furthermore, since the location of the detection unit being transported by the circulating transport device is identified and the timing for detecting specific actions by the detection unit is appropriately determined, the detection results for specific actions in each dining space are appropriately obtained.

[0048] The control unit may identify the dining space where the detection unit was located when the aforementioned event execution conditions were met, based on the transport location identification information, from among multiple dining spaces. The control unit may then execute an event using the event execution system in the identified dining space. In this case, the dining space will be appropriately identified for the customer who met the event execution conditions, and the event will be executed in the identified dining space. Therefore, the event will be executed more appropriately.

[0049] However, the transport device that carries the detection unit may also be an order transport device that transports objects to the dining space of a customer who has ordered food or drinks, among multiple dining spaces. In this case as well, customers staying in the dining space can eat and drink while expecting the detection unit to be transported to their dining space by the order transport device.

[0050] One or more predetermined locations on the circulating transport route may be designated as reference locations. The restaurant management system may further include a reference location passage detection unit that detects the timing when a detection unit transported by the circulating transport device passes the reference location. The control unit may obtain information on the timing when the detection unit passes the reference location from the reference location passage detection unit as transport location identification information.

[0051] The reference position is predetermined, and the positional relationship between the reference position and each dining space on the circulating transport path is also fixed. Therefore, the control unit can appropriately identify which of the multiple dining spaces the detection unit is being transported through, based on the timing when the detection unit passes the reference position.

[0052] An identifier may be installed at the reference position. The reference position passage detection unit may be transported together with the detection unit by a circulating transport device. The reference position passage detection unit may detect the timing at which the identifier is read by reading the identifier installed at the reference position as the timing at which the detection unit has passed the reference position. In this case, the timing at which the detection unit passes the reference position is automatically and appropriately detected by the identifier.

[0053] The specific method of using the identifier can be selected as appropriate. For example, multiple predetermined locations corresponding to each of the multiple dining spaces in the circulating transport route may be designated as reference locations. Different identifiers may be set at each of the multiple reference locations corresponding to each of the multiple dining spaces. Each of the multiple identifiers may be associated with one of the multiple dining spaces. The control unit may acquire information on the timing when the detection unit passes a reference location and the information of the read identifier as transport location identification information using the reference location passage detection unit. Based on the acquired information (passage timing and identifier), the control unit may identify which of the multiple dining spaces the detection unit is being transported through. In this case, the food and beverage space being transported by the detection unit can be identified with higher accuracy.

[0054] However, even if not all of the multiple dining spaces are designated as reference positions, it is still possible to identify the dining space to which the detection unit is being transported. As mentioned above, the reference positions are predetermined, and the distance between the reference positions and each dining space on the circulating transport path is also fixed. Therefore, if the transport speed of the detection unit by the circulating transport device is known, the elapsed time from when the detection unit passes the reference position until it reaches each dining space can be calculated based on the distance on the transport path between the reference positions and each dining space, and the transport speed of the detection unit. The control unit may then identify the dining space to which the detection unit is being transported based on the calculated elapsed time.

[0055] Various identifiers, such as QR codes (registered trademark) or barcodes, can be used as identifiers. When using QR codes (registered trademark) or barcodes as identifiers, the reference position passage detection unit that reads the identifier can read various information from the identifier (for example, information that identifies the reference position passed at that time from among multiple reference positions), and the identifier can be read easily with high accuracy. However, it is also possible to use numbers, symbols, and pictures (for example, different animals) as identifiers. Identifiers may be printed on various objects such as paper and placed at the reference positions. In addition, an identifier display unit capable of displaying an image including the identifier may be placed at the reference positions. Various configurations can also be used for the reference position passage detection unit. For example, the reference position passage detection unit may be provided in the mobile terminal device described above. The mobile terminal device may have both a detection unit and a reference position passage detection unit. In this case, the camera provided in the mobile terminal device may serve as both a detection unit that detects specific customer actions and a reference position passage detection unit that reads identifiers. Furthermore, instead of reading an identifier, the reference position passage detection unit can also detect the timing of its passage through the reference position by utilizing various sensors such as optical sensors, magnetic sensors, or AI cameras.

[0056] The control unit may calculate points for each dining space based on the detection results of the detection unit, corresponding to the detection results of a specific action, each time the detection unit is transported to each dining space by the circulating transport device. If the cumulative total of points calculated and added when the detection unit is transported to each dining space multiple times satisfies predetermined event execution conditions, the control unit may execute an event using the event execution system in the dining space that satisfies the conditions. In this case, each dining space is given the opportunity to calculate points each time the detection unit completes one circuit by the circulating transport device. Therefore, customers can enjoy their meals while repeatedly anticipating that the detection unit will be transported to their dining space by the circulating transport device.

[0057] Furthermore, the points calculated each time the detection unit is transported to each dining space may have an upper limit lower than the points required to satisfy the event execution conditions. In this case, the event will not be executed by the detection unit detecting a specific action only once; the event will only be executed when the detection unit is transported to the dining space multiple times and the cumulative points meet the event execution conditions. Therefore, customers can more easily obtain the opportunity to execute the event by actively performing specific actions so that the specific action is detected each time the detection unit is transported to the dining space where they are staying. Thus, customers can enjoy having specific actions detected each time the detection unit is transported by the circulating transport device. Therefore, customers can enjoy the event even more.

[0058] However, it is also possible to set the upper limit of the points calculated each time the detection unit is transported to each dining space to be equal to or greater than the points required to execute the event. Even in this case, customers can still enjoy their meals and drinks as they have the opportunity to participate in the event each time the detection unit is transported by the circulating transport system.

[0059] Furthermore, the event execution conditions can be modified as appropriate. For example, the control unit may detect that a product has been consumed by a customer in each dining space. The control unit may execute an event when both the condition that the calculated points exceed a threshold and the condition that product consumption is detected are met. In this case, the event will not be executed based solely on points obtained from detecting a specific action; product consumption also becomes one of the conditions for the event to be executed. Therefore, the possibility of customers staying for extended periods solely for the purpose of triggering the event is appropriately reduced. The specific control method when adding product consumption as an event execution condition can be selected as appropriate. For example, the event execution condition may be that product consumption is detected after the calculated points have exceeded a threshold. Alternatively, the product may be transported together with the detection unit. In this case, the event may be executed in a specific dining space if the calculated points exceed a threshold and the product transported together with the detection unit is consumed in that dining space.

[0060] The detection unit may be installed in each of the multiple dining spaces and may detect specific customer behavior in the dining space where it is installed. In this case, specific customer behavior in each dining space can be easily and appropriately detected by the respective detection unit.

[0061] If a detection unit is installed in each dining space, a display unit may also be installed in each dining space along with the detection unit. The control unit may display the detection results of specific actions detected and acquired by the detection unit in each dining space on the display unit installed together with the detection unit. In this case, customers can easily and appropriately understand the detection results of specific actions by checking the display unit in the dining space where they are staying.

[0062] Furthermore, the restaurant management system may include customer terminal devices installed in each of the multiple dining spaces. Each customer terminal device may have a detection unit, a display unit, and a controller. In this case, the controller of the customer terminal device can be used as at least part of the control unit of the restaurant management system (for example, a control unit that performs detection processing for specific actions and processing to display the detection results on the display unit). Therefore, events that utilize the detection results from the detection unit can be executed more appropriately.

[0063] The control unit may set multiple detection timings for each of the multiple dining spaces to execute detection by the detection unit. In this case, the restaurant management system can appropriately set multiple detection timings according to, for example, the timing when each customer enters the restaurant and the length of time each customer stays in their dining space. Therefore, the content of events can be more easily controlled appropriately for each dining space.

[0064] The specific method for setting the detection timing for each dining space can be selected as appropriate. For example, the control unit may acquire the time when a customer begins staying in each of the multiple dining spaces (stay start time). The control unit may set multiple detection timings for each dining space according to the elapsed time from the stay start time (e.g., every T minutes). As mentioned above, the control unit can also limit the number of times or time periods (e.g., time periods after the stay start time) in which an event is performed for the same customer.

[0065] However, if a detection unit is installed in each of the multiple dining spaces, the control unit may set the detection timing of the multiple detection units installed in the store to be uniform. In this case, the same timing will be used to detect specific customer behavior by multiple detection units in the store. Therefore, it is possible to entertain all customers in the store by detecting specific behavior at the same time. Furthermore, it is not necessary for multiple detection timings to be set periodically. For example, multiple detection timings may be set randomly. It is also possible to set a detection timing to occur only once per business day. In addition, regardless of the length of time customers stay in the dining space, the time period during which the event is carried out may be restricted to a specific time period (for example, from X to Y). In this case, the restaurant may be able to increase the number of customers visiting during that specific time period.

[0066] The restaurant management system may include customer terminal devices installed in each of the multiple dining spaces. The customer terminal devices may include a display unit and a touch panel. The touch panel is located on the display unit and receives input from customers for operation instructions on the display area of ​​the display unit. The control unit may temporarily display an event-related image on the display unit when a detection timing occurs. The touch panel, which is the detection unit, may detect a customer's touch operation on the event-related image displayed on the display unit as a specific action.

[0067] In this case, when the detection timing arrives, an event-related image is temporarily displayed on the display unit of the customer terminal device. The customer can make the touch panel detect a specific action by touching the display area of ​​the touch panel that shows the event-related image that has been temporarily displayed on the display unit. Therefore, the customer can enjoy eating and drinking while anticipating that the event-related image will be displayed on the display unit. The customer can expect that by touching the event-related image displayed on the display unit, the content of the event will be controlled to the desired content. Thus, they can enjoy eating and drinking while enjoying the event.

[0068] The specific method for displaying event-related images on the display unit can be selected as appropriate. For example, the control unit may temporarily display the event-related image while moving it within the display area of ​​the customer terminal device's display unit when a detection timing occurs. In this case, the customer can have a specific action detected on the touch panel by touching the event-related image moving within the display area. Alternatively, the control unit may display item-corresponding images corresponding to each of several product items while moving them within the display area of ​​the display unit in order to accept product orders from the customer. The control unit may accept an order for a corresponding product when the display area of ​​the touch panel is touched by the customer. The control unit may also display the event-related image on the display unit while moving it together with the item-corresponding image when a detection timing occurs. In this case, the customer can have a specific action detected on the touch panel by finding the event-related image among the moving item-corresponding images and touching it. Therefore, the customer can pay attention to the display content of the display unit while expecting the event-related image to be displayed on the customer terminal device's display unit. Note that the event-related image may also serve as the item-corresponding image for accepting orders, or it may be a separate image from the item-corresponding image. Furthermore, the control unit may move item-corresponding images and event-related images horizontally within the display area of ​​the display unit on a digital image of a transport lane that mimics a transport device. In this case, customers can be given the same kind of enjoyment as events held in a conveyor belt sushi restaurant equipped with a physical transport device.

[0069] However, even when a detection unit is installed in each of multiple dining spaces, at least some of the technologies exemplified in this disclosure may be adopted. For example, even when a detection unit is installed in each dining space, a non-contact detection unit may be used. The detection unit may detect at least one of a customer's facial expressions, gestures, and sounds as a specific action. The detection unit may include a camera capable of capturing the customer's face to detect at least one of the number and degree of the customer's smiles. The event execution system may offer benefits to customers in the relevant dining space. The control unit may calculate points for each dining space based on the detection results of a specific action and execute an event according to the calculated points. The number of times or time periods during which an event is executed for the same customer may be limited.

[0070] A second aspect of the restaurant management system illustrated in this disclosure is used in a restaurant with multiple dining spaces where customers eat and drink, and manages events performed within the restaurant. The restaurant management system of the second aspect comprises a circulating transport device, a mobile terminal device, an event execution system, and a control unit. The circulating transport device transports objects, including food and beverages, along a circulating transport path within the restaurant. The mobile terminal device is transported along the circulating transport path by the circulating transport device. The event execution system executes events in each dining space. The control unit controls the restaurant management system. The multiple dining spaces are arranged along the circulating transport path. The mobile terminal device comprises a detection unit and a display unit. The detection unit detects at least one of specific customer behaviors, such as facial expressions, gestures, and sounds made by customers, without contacting the customer, while customers are staying in each of the multiple dining spaces. The display unit displays an image. The control unit acquires transport location identification information that identifies which of the multiple dining spaces arranged along the circulating transport path the mobile terminal device, which is being transported by the circulating transport device, is being transported in. Based on the acquired transport location identification information, the control unit sets the timing of the arrival of the mobile terminal device being transported by the circulating transport system at each of the multiple dining spaces as the detection timing for the detection unit for each dining space. The control unit acquires the detection results of specific actions performed by the detection unit for customers in the dining space where the detection timing has arrived. The control unit displays the acquired detection results of specific actions on the display unit of the mobile terminal device. Based on the acquired detection results, the control unit controls the content of the events to be executed by the event execution system.

[0071] According to the restaurant management system of the second embodiment, when the detection timing by the detection unit arrives, the detection result of a specific action (at least one of facial expressions, gestures, and sounds) of a customer in each dining space is acquired non-contactually, and the content of the event is controlled according to the acquired detection result. Therefore, by appropriately setting the detection timing by the detection unit, the restaurant can control the trigger for controlling the content of the event (i.e., the trigger for acquiring the detection result of a specific action). As a result, customers can enjoy their meal while anticipating the arrival of a trigger for controlling the content of the event. Furthermore, since specific actions are detected non-contactually, it becomes easier to appropriately detect the customer's specific actions even while the customer is eating or drinking. Since the mobile terminal device is transported in a circulating transport device, the detection timing of a customer's specific action in each dining space repeatedly arrives each time the mobile terminal device completes one circuit of the circulating transport route. Therefore, customers can repeatedly anticipate that the mobile terminal device will be transported to the dining space where they are staying and that their specific action will be detected, thus further enhancing their enjoyment of the event. Once the location of the mobile terminal device being transported by the circulating transport device is identified, the timing of detection of specific actions by the detection unit is appropriately determined, so that the detection results of specific actions in each dining space are appropriately acquired. As described above, according to the restaurant management system of the second embodiment, customers visiting the restaurant can be fully entertained by new events that were not previously held.

[0072] A third aspect of the restaurant management system illustrated in this disclosure is a restaurant management system used in a restaurant equipped with multiple dining spaces where customers eat and drink, comprising: a transport device for transporting objects including goods within the restaurant; a camera for photographing customers transported by the transport device and staying in each of the multiple dining spaces from the transport device side; and a control unit, the control unit processing images taken by the camera in each of the multiple dining spaces.

[0073] According to the third embodiment of the restaurant management system, a camera transported by a transport device can photograph customers staying in each of multiple dining spaces, and the captured images can be processed. Therefore, images of customers in each dining space can be effectively utilized for various purposes.

[0074] For example, the control unit may process images taken in each dining space, as described above, and control events executed by the event execution system in each dining space according to the processing results.

[0075] Furthermore, the control unit may display the images taken in each dining space on a display unit (for example, the display unit of a customer terminal device or the display unit of a mobile terminal device). The control unit may also transmit the images taken in each dining space to the customer's mobile terminal or the customer's sending and receiving tool (for example, email). In these cases, the customer can enjoy viewing images of themselves taken while they were in the dining space (for example, images taken while a specific action was detected, or images taken while an event was taking place).

[0076] Furthermore, the control unit may transmit images captured by the camera to other businesses that acquire customer information by analyzing the images. In this case, customer information for each dining space will be appropriately acquired.

[0077] A fourth aspect of the restaurant management system illustrated in this disclosure is a restaurant management system used in a restaurant equipped with multiple dining spaces where customers eat and drink, comprising: a customer terminal device placed in each of the multiple dining spaces to receive orders for products from customers; a transport device to transport products along a transport route arranged along the multiple dining spaces; and a control unit, wherein the customer terminal device comprises a display unit for displaying images; a touch panel provided on the display unit for detecting contact operations on the display area of ​​the display unit; and a camera for photographing customers staying in the dining space from the transport device side, and the control unit accepts orders for products in accordance with the detection results of contact operations by the touch panel, transports the products to the dining space of the customer who placed the order using the transport device, and processes images taken by the camera in each of the multiple dining spaces.

[0078] According to the restaurant management system of the fourth embodiment, cameras on customer terminal devices installed in each dining space can capture images of customers staying in each of the multiple dining spaces, and the captured images can be processed. Therefore, images of customers in each dining space can be effectively utilized for various purposes.

[0079] For example, the control unit may process images taken in each dining space, as described above, and control events executed by the event execution system in each dining space according to the processing results.

[0080] Furthermore, the control unit may display the images taken in each dining space on a display unit (for example, the display unit of a customer terminal device or the display unit of a mobile terminal device). The control unit may also transmit the images taken in each dining space to the customer's mobile terminal or the customer's sending and receiving tool (for example, email). In these cases, the customer can enjoy viewing images of themselves taken while they were in the dining space (for example, images taken while a specific action was detected, or images taken while an event was taking place).

[0081] Furthermore, the control unit may transmit images captured by the camera to other businesses that acquire customer information by analyzing the images. In this case, customer information for each dining space will be appropriately acquired.

[0082] <First Embodiment> (System Configuration) Hereinafter, a first embodiment, which is one of the typical embodiments of this disclosure, will be described with reference to the drawings. First, an example of the system configuration of the restaurant management system 1 in this embodiment will be described in general terms with reference to Figures 1 to 4. The restaurant management system 1 is used in a restaurant equipped with multiple dining spaces where customers eat and drink. The restaurant management system 1 transports products such as sushi within the restaurant and manages events that take place in the restaurant. The restaurant management system 1 in this embodiment is equipped with multiple dishes on which products are placed. As an example, the restaurant in this embodiment is a sushi restaurant (more specifically, a so-called conveyor belt sushi restaurant). Various products (mainly food and beverages) such as sushi, beverages, soups, and chawanmushi are placed on the dishes. However, it is also possible to adopt at least a part of the technology exemplified in this embodiment in a restaurant management system used in restaurants other than sushi restaurants (for example, a yakiniku restaurant, etc.).

[0083] In the restaurant of this embodiment, customers can order products at each dining space consisting of one or more seats. A dining space is a concept that refers to a seat or table 6 (see Figure 2, etc.) used by a customer to whom the product is served. For example, when a group of customers consisting of multiple customers visit a restaurant (sushi restaurant) and is guided to a table 6 in the restaurant, that table 6 constitutes a dining space. Also, for example, when a single customer visits a restaurant and is guided to a counter-type table 6 in the restaurant, that counter-type table 6 constitutes a dining space. It should be noted that a dining space is not limited to actual seats or tables 6. A dining space may be something else that corresponds to a group consisting of one or more customers, indicating the purchaser, orderer, or recipient of the product by that group. Such a dining space may be real or virtual. In other words, a dining space is a concept that indicates the unit to which the product is served and to which the price of the product is charged.

[0084] (Guest room area configuration) First, referring to Figure 1, the configuration of the dining area 3 (see Figure 2) of the restaurant management system 1 of this embodiment will be described. As shown in Figure 1, the restaurant management system 1 of this embodiment includes a customer terminal device 7, an order transport device 5, a circulating transport device 20, and a mobile terminal device 60. Furthermore, the restaurant management system 1 includes a main control device 100 (see Figures 2 and 3) that controls the entire system, and an event execution system 2 (see Figure 3). The customer terminal device 7 accepts orders for products from customers. In this embodiment, the customer terminal device 7 also functions as part of the event execution system 2 that executes events. The order transport device 5 transports products ordered by customers (hereinafter referred to as "ordered products") from the kitchen area 4 (see Figure 2) to the dining area of ​​the customer who ordered the products, based on the operation of the touch panel 74 (see Figure 3) of the customer terminal device 7. The circulating transport device 20 transports products and objects such as the mobile terminal device 60 in a circulating manner between the kitchen area 4 and the dining area 3 within the restaurant. In the following, products that are transported in a circular manner by the circulating transport device 20 will be referred to as "circulating products."

[0085] As shown in Figure 1, in the customer area 3, the order conveying device 5 and the circulating conveying device 20 are arranged vertically. Details will be described later with reference to Figure 2, but the multiple dining spaces where customers eat and drink (e.g., tables 6, etc.) are arranged along the order conveying device 5 and the circulating conveying device 20. Therefore, customers in each dining space can retrieve both the ordered items provided by the order conveying device 5 and the circulating items provided by the circulating conveying device 20. Furthermore, customers in each dining space can see the mobile terminal devices 60 (see Figures 2-4) being transported by the circulating conveying device 20. In the example shown in Figure 1, the order conveying device 5 is positioned above the circulating conveying device 20. However, it goes without saying that the vertical arrangement of the order conveying device 5 and the circulating conveying device 20 could be reversed. Additionally, the customer terminal devices 7 are positioned corresponding to each of the multiple dining spaces. The order conveying device 5 transports and provides ordered items to the dining space corresponding to the customer terminal device 7 where the order was entered.

[0086] In the guest room area 3, a collection port 25 is provided for collecting tableware (sushi plates in this embodiment), corresponding to each of the multiple dining spaces. When a customer places tableware into the collection port 25, the tableware is collected at a predetermined collection point in the kitchen area 4 via a water recovery path (not shown) located below the order conveying device 5 and the circulation conveying device 20. The collection port 25 is also equipped with an input detection sensor (not shown) that detects when tableware is placed into the collection port 25. The detection result of the input detection sensor for tableware placement may also be used by the event execution system 2 to determine whether or not the event execution conditions (lottery conditions in this embodiment) have been met (details will be described later).

[0087] Furthermore, the guest room area 3 is equipped with a reward provision device 28 (see Figure 3), which constitutes part of the event execution system 2 in this embodiment. The event execution system 2 of the first embodiment performs a lottery process for each of the multiple dining spaces whenever a predetermined event execution condition (lottery condition) is met. If the result of the lottery process is a win, the event execution system 2 provides a reward to the customer of the corresponding dining space. As an example, the event execution system 2 of the first embodiment includes a main control device 100 (see Figures 2 and 3), a customer terminal device 7, and a reward provision device 28. The main control device 100 performs a lottery process whenever a predetermined event execution condition is met and outputs the result of the lottery process to the customer terminal device 7 and the reward provision device 28. The customer terminal device 7 notifies the customer of the result of the lottery process. The reward provision device 28 is provided corresponding to each of the multiple dining spaces. If the result of the lottery process is a win, the reward provision device 28 provides a reward (e.g., a prize) to the customer of the corresponding dining space. The lottery process may be performed by a device other than the main control device 100 (for example, a customer terminal device 7). As an example, the reward provision device 28 in the first embodiment is located above the order transport device 5 and the circulation transport device 20. However, the arrangement, number, and content of the rewards provided by the reward provision device 28 can be changed as appropriate. Also, for example, if the rewards to be provided can be provided electronically, the event execution system can provide the rewards to the customer without providing the reward provision device 28.

[0088] In the first embodiment, multiple conditions are provided as event execution conditions for the event execution system to execute the lottery process. The main control device 100 executes the lottery process for each dining space when any of the event execution conditions are met. In the first embodiment, there are event execution conditions that are met according to the detection result of a specific customer action, and event execution conditions that are met according to the number of times dishes are put into the collection port 25. The main control device 100 executes the lottery process for each dining space whenever the number of times dishes are put into the collection port 25 reaches the event execution condition of N times (for example, 5 times). The event execution conditions that are met according to the detection result of a specific customer action will be described later.

[0089] (Configuration of the circulating transport system) Referring to Figure 2, the configuration of the first embodiment, mainly related to the circulating conveying device 20, will be described. As shown in Figure 2, the restaurant includes a dining area 3 where customers eat and drink, and a kitchen area 4 where food and drinks are prepared. In the dining area 3, for example, tables 6 and seats are provided for customers to eat and drink. In this embodiment, the tables 6 include both tables where multiple customers can eat facing each other and counter-style tables where multiple customers can eat in a row. Each of the multiple tables 6 constitutes a customer dining space. In this embodiment, each of the multiple tables 6 (dining spaces) is arranged along the circulating conveying device 20. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the circulating conveying device 20 and the order conveying device 5 (see Figure 1) are arranged vertically. Therefore, each of the multiple tables 6 (dining spaces) is arranged along both the order conveying device 5 and the circulating conveying device 20.

[0090] The customer terminal devices 7 provided in the guest room area 3 are, for example, reception terminals provided in each dining space. In this embodiment, a group of customers can order products, etc., using the customer terminal devices 7, which have a screen such as a touch panel and are installed to correspond to the dining space they use. In this embodiment, a tablet-type information terminal is used as the customer terminal device 7. However, for example, a portable information terminal or a personal computer (PC) may be used as the customer terminal device 7.

[0091] In the restaurant of this embodiment, customers in the corresponding dining area can order products using a so-called electronic menu displayed on the customer terminal device 7. For example, based on the customer's order operation on the customer terminal device 7 corresponding to each dining area, the main control unit 100 receives orders from each dining area. The main control unit 100 transmits the order details (e.g., the items and quantities of the ordered products) to the kitchen terminal device 8 located in the kitchen area 4. The kitchen terminal device 8 displays the order details transmitted from the main control unit 100 on a monitor. As a result, the products are prepared and served according to the order. As mentioned above, the customer terminal device 7 in this embodiment also functions as part of the event execution system 2.

[0092] The circulating conveying device 20 is a type of conveying device that transports objects, including goods (food and beverages, etc.), along a transport path. In this embodiment, the circulating conveying device 20 transports objects between the customer area 3 and the kitchen area 4 along a circulating conveying path that circulates within the store. The circulating conveying device 20 shown in Figure 2 is arranged to extend from the left, center, and right sides, respectively, when viewed from the kitchen area 4, towards the customer area 3, and then return to the kitchen area 4. However, it goes without saying that the arrangement of the circulating conveying device 20 and the order conveying device 5 in plan view can be changed. As an example, the circulating conveying device 20 in this embodiment uses a chain conveyor (for example, a crescent chain conveyor) formed by multiple plates being linked together along the circulating conveying path.

[0093] As described above, in this embodiment, multiple dining spaces (e.g., tables 6, etc.) are arranged within the guest room area 3 along the transport path of the circulating transport device 20. Each of the circulating transport device 20 is equipped with a product removal detection sensor 21 (in Figure 2, only product removal detection sensors 21A and 21B are numbered) on both the upstream and downstream sides. The product removal detection sensor 21 detects when a circulating product being transported by the circulating transport device 20 has been removed and identifies the dining space from which the circulating product was removed (hereinafter referred to as the "removal location").

[0094] The restaurant management system 1 of this embodiment includes a plurality of partition sections 22. The plurality of partition sections 22 separate at least a pair of adjacent dining spaces. The partition sections may also separate the space around the transport path of the circulating transport device 20 between at least a pair of adjacent dining spaces. By providing partition sections 22, it becomes easier to determine from which of the pair of dining spaces located on either side of the partition section 22 the circulating product was taken. In this embodiment, at least some of the plurality of product retrieval detection sensors 21 are installed corresponding to the positions of the partition sections 22.

[0095] When the main control unit 100 detects a circulating product by the nearest product retrieval detection sensor 21 upstream of the Nth dining space in the circulating transport path, it then determines whether the detected circulating product was also detected by the nearest product retrieval detection sensor 21 downstream of the Nth dining space in the circulating transport path. If a circulating product is detected upstream of the Nth dining space but not downstream of the Nth dining space, the main control unit 100 detects that the circulating product was retrieved in the Nth dining space. In other words, the main control unit 100 identifies the retrieval location where the circulating product was retrieved as the Nth dining space. It is also possible to change the method for detecting that a circulating product has been retrieved by a customer. For example, the retrieval of a circulating product may be detected by capturing the customer's actions with an AI camera.

[0096] In the first embodiment, the circulating transport device 20 transports the mobile terminal device 60 along the circulating transport path. As will be described in detail with reference to Figure 3, the mobile terminal device 60 includes a CPU 61 which is a controller, a display unit 63 which displays various images, and a camera 65 which takes pictures. In the first embodiment, the camera 65 of the mobile terminal device 60 functions as an example of a detection unit that detects specific actions of customers staying in each of the multiple dining spaces. Specifically, the mobile terminal device 60 is installed on the circulating transport device 20 such that the detection range (shooting range) of specific actions by the camera 65 faces from the circulating transport device 20 side toward the dining space side. The CPU 61 of the mobile terminal device 60, while being transported by the circulating transport device 20, takes pictures of customers in each dining space with the camera 65 and processes the captured images to detect specific actions of the captured customers. The CPU 61 of the mobile terminal device 60 displays the detection results of specific actions by the camera (detection unit) 65 on the display unit 63. Furthermore, the detection results of specific actions by the camera (detection unit) 65 are used to control the content of events to be executed by the event execution system 2.

[0097] As described above, in the first embodiment, the detection unit, camera 65, is transported along the transport path by the circulating transport device 20 and detects specific actions of customers staying in the dining spaces arranged along the transport path. Therefore, at the time when the detection unit, camera 65, is transported to a specific dining space by the circulating transport device 20, there is a possibility that specific actions of customers staying in that dining space will be detected by camera 65. Thus, customers staying in a dining space can not only expect that the food and beverages they desire will be transported by the circulating transport device 20, but they can also enjoy their meal while expecting that camera 65 will be transported to their dining space by the circulating transport device 20.

[0098] In the first embodiment, the display unit 63 is transported along the transport path together with the detection unit camera 65. The display unit 63 displays the detection result of a specific action by the camera 65. Therefore, when a customer staying in the dining area detects a specific action by the camera (detection unit) 65 that has been transported to their dining area by the circulating transport device 20, they can easily understand the detection result of that specific action by looking at the display on the display unit 63 that was transported together with the camera 65. Furthermore, by transporting both the camera (detection unit) 65 and the display unit 63 by the circulating transport device 20, the restaurant management system 1 can more strongly attract the attention of customers staying in the dining area to the transported camera (detection unit) 65 and display unit 63 compared to transporting only the camera (detection unit) 65. As a result, customers can more easily recognize that the camera (detection unit) 65 has been transported to their dining area, and the accuracy of the camera (detection unit) 65's detection of specific actions can also be improved. Therefore, events that utilize the detection results from the detection unit can be executed more appropriately.

[0099] As described above, in the first embodiment, the mobile terminal device 60 having a CPU 61, a display unit 63, and a camera (detection unit) 65 is transported by the circulating transport device 20, so that the display unit 63 and the camera 65 are transported together. Therefore, the restaurant management system 1 can strongly attract the attention of customers staying in the dining space to the transported mobile terminal device 60. As a result, customers can easily realize that the mobile terminal device 60 with the camera (detection unit) 65 has been transported to their dining space, and the accuracy of detecting specific actions by the camera (detection unit) 65 of the mobile terminal device 60 can also be improved. Furthermore, it is also possible to use the CPU 61 of the mobile terminal device 60 as at least a part of the control unit of the restaurant management system 1 (for example, a control unit that performs detection processing of specific actions and processing of displaying the detection results on the display unit 63). Therefore, events that utilize the detection results by the detection unit can be executed more appropriately. However, the detection unit (camera 65 in the first embodiment) that detects specific customer behavior and the display unit 63 that displays the detection results may be provided separately.

[0100] In the first embodiment, the detection unit, camera 65, is a non-contact type detection unit that detects specific customer actions without touching the customer. Specifically, the camera 65 in the first embodiment detects specific customer actions that are different from operations on the touch panel (including operations on a non-contact type touch panel). Therefore, even if the customer does not attempt to make contact with the detection unit (camera 65), specific customer actions are appropriately detected by the non-contact type detection unit. As a result, specific customer actions are more easily detected appropriately even while the customer is eating or drinking. Consequently, events by the event execution system 2 can be more easily controlled appropriately even if the customer does not interrupt eating or drinking.

[0101] The detection unit of the first embodiment can detect at least one of the customer's facial expressions, gestures, and sounds (such as voice or applause) as specific actions without touching the customer. As a result, the content of the event is controlled based on the detection result of at least one of the customer's facial expressions, gestures, and sounds, so that new events that were not previously possible can be implemented in the restaurant. Therefore, customers who visit the restaurant can be made to enjoy themselves even more.

[0102] In the first embodiment, the detection unit, camera 65, photographs the customer's face and detects at least one of the number and degree of the customer's smile as a specific customer behavior. Therefore, since the content of the event changes according to the customer's smile, customers are more likely to have an incentive to smile. As a result, more customers are more likely to smile in the restaurant, allowing them to enjoy their food and drinks in a more pleasant atmosphere. In other words, the restaurant management system 1 of the first embodiment can implement new events in restaurants that can make more customers smile. Furthermore, customers can also have their smiles detected by smiling while eating or drinking. Therefore, customers can participate in the event without interrupting their eating or drinking.

[0103] Referring to Figure 4, an example of how the smile detection result is displayed on the display unit 63 in the first embodiment will be described. As will be described in detail later, in the first embodiment, the mobile terminal device 60 detects the degree of a customer's smile (for example, the degree of the customer's smile) within a certain period of time (specifically, within the time it takes for the mobile terminal device 60, which is being transported by the circulating transport device 20, to pass through one dining space). As shown in Figure 4, before a smile is detected, the CPU 61 of the mobile terminal device 60 displays an image of a sad-faced cat on the display unit 63 as an image indicating that no smile has been detected. Subsequently, as the degree points (0 to 100 points in this embodiment) calculated according to the detected degree of smile increase, the CPU 61 changes the image displayed on the display unit 63 so that the sad face of the cat gradually approaches a smile. When the degree points corresponding to the detected degree of smile reach a predetermined first threshold (e.g., 96 points), the CPU 61 displays an image of a cat with a good smile on the display unit 63 as an image indicating that a good smile has been detected, and also emits a predetermined sound (e.g., a "good smile" voice) from the speaker 66 (see Figure 3). Furthermore, when the degree points corresponding to the detected degree of smile reach a second threshold (e.g., 99 points) higher than the first threshold, the CPU 61 displays an image of a cat with the best smile on the display unit 63 as an image indicating that the best smile has been detected, and also emits a predetermined sound (e.g., a "best smile" voice) from the speaker 66. Thus, the customer causes the mobile terminal device 60 to detect a smile so that the face displayed on the display unit 63 changes from a sad face to a smiling face. In addition, the customer can appropriately understand the smile detection result based on the face displayed on the display unit 63.

[0104] In the first embodiment, a mobile terminal device 60 equipped with a camera 65, which is a detection unit, moves along a circulating transport device 20 and detects specific actions of each customer in a plurality of dining spaces provided along a circulating transport route. When the detection timing for each dining space arrives (in the first embodiment, the timing when the mobile terminal device 60, which is a moving object, is transported by the circulating transport device 20 and arrives at each dining space), the customer in each dining space performs a specific action (in the first embodiment, the action of smiling) towards the camera 65 of the mobile terminal device 60 moving within the customer's field of view. In other words, the detection unit of the first embodiment detects the customer's action toward the mobile terminal device 60, which is moving within the customer's field of view, as a specific action when the detection timing arrives. By performing a specific action toward the mobile terminal device 60 moving within the customer's field of view, the customer can change the content of the event executed by the event execution system 2. Therefore, since customers follow the mobile terminal device 60, which is an example of a moving object, with their eyes and act in a way that makes it possible to detect their specific action as much as possible, the customer's motivation to have their specific action detected by the detection unit is easily increased. Thus, the customer can be entertained even more.

[0105] In the first embodiment, the control unit of the restaurant management system 1 (for example, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100) acquires information (transportation position identification information) that identifies which of the multiple dining spaces the camera (detection unit) 65, which is being transported in a circular manner by the circulating transport device 20, is being transported to along the circular transport path. Based on the transport position identification information, the control unit sets the timing at which the camera (detection unit) 65, being transported by the circulating transport device 20, arrives at each of the multiple dining spaces as the timing at which the camera (detection unit) 65 detects a specific customer action (smiling in the first embodiment) for each dining space. Therefore, the camera (detection unit) 65 is repeatedly transported to each dining space by the circulating transport device 20 multiple times. In other words, the timing at which a specific customer action is detected for each dining space repeatedly occurs each time the camera (detection unit) 65 completes one full rotation of the circular transport path by the circulating transport device 20. Therefore, customers can repeatedly expect the camera (detection unit) 65 to be transported to the dining area where they are staying and their specific actions to be detected, thus enhancing their enjoyment of the event. Furthermore, since the location of the camera (detection unit) 65 being transported by the circulating transport device 20 is identified, and the timing of the camera 65 detecting specific actions is appropriately determined, the detection results of specific actions in each dining area are appropriately acquired.

[0106] In the first embodiment, predetermined positions on the circulating transport path of the circulating transport device 20 are set in advance as reference positions. Specifically, in the example shown in Figure 2, multiple predetermined positions corresponding to each of the multiple dining spaces (in this embodiment, the positions of the partitions 22 that are the upstream ends of each table 6 on the circulating transport path) are set in advance as reference positions. The mobile terminal device 60 (camera 65) functions as a reference position passage detection unit that detects the timing when the camera 65, which is transported by the circulating transport device 20, passes a reference position. In other words, the mobile terminal device 60 detects the timing when it passes each of the multiple reference positions by processing the images captured by the camera 65 while it is being transported by the transport device 20. The detected timing is notified to the main control device 100 as transport position identification information. In other words, the main control device 100 obtains information on the timing when the camera 65 passed a reference position from the mobile terminal device 60 as transport position identification information. As described above, the reference position is predetermined, and the positional relationship between the reference position and each dining space on the circulating transport path is also fixed. Therefore, the main control device 100 can appropriately identify which of the multiple dining spaces the camera (detection unit) 65 is being transported through, based on the timing when the camera 65 passes the reference position.

[0107] In the first embodiment of the restaurant management system 1, an identifier 26 is installed at a reference position. In the first embodiment, the mobile terminal device 60, which is the reference position passage detection unit, is transported by a circulating transport device 20 together with a camera (detection unit) 65. The mobile terminal device 60 reads the identifier 26 installed at the reference position with the camera 65, and detects the timing of reading the identifier 26 as the timing when the camera (detection unit) 65 has passed the reference position. In other words, in the first embodiment, the camera 65 of the mobile terminal device 60 also functions as an identifier reader that photographs and reads the identifier 26. As a result, the timing when the camera 65 passes the reference position is automatically and appropriately detected by the identifier 26. In the first embodiment, a QR code (registered trademark) is used as the identifier 26, but it is also possible to use other identifiers (e.g., barcodes).

[0108] In detail, in the first embodiment, a position corresponding to each of the multiple dining spaces is defined as a reference position. A different identifier 26 is installed at each of the multiple reference positions. Each of the multiple identifiers 26 is associated with one of the multiple dining spaces. The main control device 100 acquires information on the timing when the camera (detection unit) 65 passes the reference position (i.e., information on the timing when the identifier 26 is detected) and the information of the read identifier 26 from the mobile terminal device 60 as transport position identification information. Based on the acquired information, the main control device 100 identifies which of the multiple dining spaces the camera (detection unit) 65 is being transported through. As a result, the dining space in which the camera 65 is being transported can be identified with higher accuracy.

[0109] (Electrical configuration) Referring to Figure 3, the electrical configuration of the restaurant management system 1 of the first embodiment will be described. The restaurant management system 1 of the first embodiment comprises a main control device 100, a customer terminal device 7, a special offer device 28, a circulating transport device 20, a mobile terminal device 60, a product retrieval detection sensor 21, an order transport device 5, and a kitchen terminal device 8. As described above, the main control device 100, the customer terminal device 7, and the special offer device 28 function as the event execution system 2 in the first embodiment.

[0110] The main control unit 100 controls the entire restaurant management system 1. As an example, in this embodiment, a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as "PC") or a server is used as the main control unit 100. However, various information processing devices other than PCs and servers (e.g., mobile terminals, etc.) may be used as the main control unit 100. Furthermore, the devices constituting the main control unit 100 may be one or multiple. For example, a server and a database may cooperate to function as the main control unit 100, or multiple information processing devices (servers and PCs, etc.) may cooperate to function as the main control unit 100. It is also possible to omit the main control unit 100. In this case, the functions of the main control unit 100 may be performed by other devices (e.g., kitchen terminal device 8, etc.).

[0111] The main control unit 100 includes a CPU 101, which is a controller that manages the operation, and a storage device 102 that can store programs and data. The storage device 23 may store at least a part of the restaurant management program for executing event control processing (see Figure 5), which will be described later. Furthermore, the main control unit 100 includes a display unit 103 and an operation unit 104. The display unit 103 displays various images. The operation unit 104 is operated by the user (restaurant employee, etc.) to input various instructions to the main control unit 100. The main control unit 100 is connected to various devices (for example, a customer terminal device 7, a special offer device 28, a mobile terminal device 60, a product retrieval detection sensor 21, an order transport device 5, and a kitchen terminal device 8, etc.) via at least one of wired communication, wireless communication, and a network.

[0112] The customer terminal device 7 comprises a CPU 71, a storage device 72, a display unit 73, a touch panel 74, a camera 75, and a speaker 76. The CPU 71 is a controller that manages the customer terminal device 7. The display unit 73 displays various images. The touch panel 74 is an example of an operation unit into which customer operation instructions are input, and is located on the surface of the display unit 73. The camera 75 takes pictures. The speaker 76 generates sound.

[0113] The reward provision device 28 provides a reward to a customer in the relevant dining space when a predetermined condition (in this embodiment, the condition that the result of the lottery process is a win) is met. In the first embodiment, the reward provision device 28 is installed in each dining space and provides customers with prizes sealed in capsules. As described above, in the first embodiment, the customer terminal device 7, the reward provision device 28, and the main control device 100 function as an event execution system 2 that executes events inside the restaurant.

[0114] The mobile terminal device 60 comprises a CPU 61, a storage device 62, a display unit 63, a touch panel 64, a camera 65, and a speaker 66. The CPU 71 is a controller that manages the mobile terminal device 60. The display unit 63 displays various images. The touch panel 64 is an example of an operation unit into which customer operation instructions are input, and is provided on the surface of the display unit 63. The camera 65 takes pictures. As described above, in the first embodiment, the camera 65 of the mobile terminal device 60 also functions as a detection unit that detects a specific customer action (smiling in the first embodiment), a reference position passage detection unit that detects the timing when the camera 65 passes a reference position, and an identifier reading unit that reads an identifier 26 provided at the reference position. The speaker 76 generates sound.

[0115] In this embodiment, tablet terminals are used as the customer terminal device 7 and the mobile terminal device 60. Although a detailed explanation is omitted, the kitchen terminal device 8 also includes a CPU, storage device, display unit, operation unit, etc., similar to the customer terminal device 7 and the mobile terminal device 60. Various information processing devices, such as tablet terminals, can be used as the kitchen terminal device 8. The detection result from the product retrieval detection sensor 21 is output to the main control device 100. The order transport device 5 is controlled by the main control device 100 to transport the products ordered by the customer via the customer terminal device 7 to the dining area of ​​the customer who placed the order.

[0116] (Event control processing) Referring to Figure 5, the event control processing performed by the restaurant management system 1 of the first embodiment will be described. The event control processing of the first embodiment is performed collaboratively by the control units of multiple devices of the restaurant management system 1 (for example, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100, the CPU 61 of the mobile terminal device 60, the CPU 71 of the customer terminal device 7, and the CPU of the benefit provision device 28, etc.). The control unit of each device performs the event control processing shown in Figure 5 according to the restaurant management program stored in the storage device.

[0117] First, the CPU 61 of the mobile terminal device 60 being transported by the circulating transport device 20 determines whether the camera (detection unit) 65 installed on the mobile terminal device 60 has arrived at one of the multiple dining spaces (S1). As described above, in the first embodiment, the CPU 61 of the mobile terminal device 60 acquires information on the timing when the identifier 26 installed at each of the multiple reference positions is read by the camera 65, and information on the read identifier 26, as transport position identification information. In S1, the CPU 61 recognizes the timing when the identifier 26 is read by the camera 65 as the timing when the camera (detection unit) 65 has arrived at the dining space corresponding to the identifier 26. The determination in S1 is repeated and the system remains in a standby state until the camera (detection unit) 65 arrives at any of the dining spaces (S1:NO).

[0118] When the camera (detection unit) 65 arrives at any dining space (S1:YES), the CPU 61 of the mobile terminal device 60 identifies the dining space corresponding to the read identifier 26 as the dining space to which the camera (detection unit) 65 has arrived and is being transported (S2). The CPU 61 of the mobile terminal device 60 also notifies the main control device 100 of the identified dining space being transported. Furthermore, the CPU 61 of the mobile terminal device 60 uses the timing of the camera (detection unit) 65's arrival at the dining space as a detection timing to detect a specific action (smiling in the first embodiment) of a customer in the arrived dining space, and begins detecting that action (S3). As a result, detection of smiles of customers captured within the camera (detection unit) 65's field of view begins. As described above, the CPU 61 calculates degree points (0 to 100 points) according to the degree of the customer's smile detected by the camera (detection unit) 65. The higher the degree of the smile, the higher the degree points calculated.

[0119] The CPU 61 of the mobile terminal device 60 determines whether the calculated degree points are equal to or greater than the first threshold S1 (e.g., 96 points) (S5). If the degree points are less than the first threshold S1, or if the degree points have already reached or exceeded the first threshold S1 during a single detection (S5:NO), the CPU 61 determines whether the calculated degree points are equal to or greater than the second threshold (e.g., 99 points), which is greater than the first threshold S1 (S6). The second threshold S2 is a threshold for determining whether the event execution conditions based on the degree of a specific detected action have been met. If the degree points are less than the second threshold (S6:NO), the CPU 61 determines whether the time limit for a single detection by the camera (detection unit) 65 has arrived (S7). The time limit for a single detection is set to be less than or equal to the time it takes for the camera (detection unit) 65 to pass through one dining space by the circulating transport device 20. If the time limit for a single detection has not expired (S7:NO), the process returns to S5, and the processes from S5 to S7 are repeated. If the time limit for a single detection has expired (S7:YES), the event is not executed, and the process returns to S1. It is also possible to continue detecting a specific action until the camera (detection unit) 65 arrives at the next dining area, without setting a time limit for a single detection.

[0120] If the calculated degree points are equal to or greater than the first threshold S1 (S5:YES), the CPU 61 of the mobile terminal device 60 adds "1" to the detection count points, which indicate the number of times a specific action (a good smile in the first embodiment) has been detected (S9). The CPU 61 determines whether the cumulative total of the calculated detection count points is equal to or greater than the detection count threshold K (for example, "5"), which is the event execution condition based on the number of detections (S10). If the cumulative total of the detection count points is less than the detection count threshold K (S10:NO), the process proceeds to S6. If the cumulative total of the detection count points is equal to or greater than the detection count threshold K, and the event execution condition based on the number of detections is met (S10:YES), the CPU 61 sends an instruction to the event execution system 2 (in the first embodiment, at least one of the main control device 100 and the customer terminal device 7) to execute an event in the dining space where the camera (detection unit) 65 is being transported at that time (i.e., the dining space being transported as identified in S2). As a result, an event is executed in the dining space identified in S2 (S12-S16). Details of S12-S16 will be described later. Also, when the event execution condition based on the number of detections is met (S10: YES), the CPU 61 displays an image of a good smile on the display unit 63 as an image indicating that a good smile has been detected, and also generates a predetermined sound (for example, the voice of "good smile") in the speaker 66.

[0121] Furthermore, when the calculated degree points reach or exceed the second threshold S2, and the event execution conditions based on the degree of the detected specific behavior are met (S6:YES), the CPU 61 sends an instruction to the event execution system 2 to execute the event in the dining space where the camera (detection unit) 65 is being transported at that time, regardless of whether the event execution conditions based on the number of detections are met or not. As a result, the event is executed in the dining space identified in S2 (S12~S16). Also, when the event execution conditions based on degree are met (S6:YES), the CPU 61 displays the image of the best smile on the display unit 63 as an image indicating that the best smile has been detected, and also generates a predetermined sound (for example, the voice of "best smile") in the speaker 66.

[0122] As described above, the control unit of the restaurant management system 1 (CPU 61 of the mobile terminal device 60 in the first embodiment) identifies the dining space where the camera (detection unit) 65 was located when the event execution conditions were met, based on the transport location identification information. The control unit then executes an event using the event execution system 2 in the identified dining space. Therefore, among the multiple dining spaces, the customer's dining space is appropriately identified when the event execution conditions are met, and the event is executed in the identified dining space.

[0123] The process (S12-S16) by which the event execution system 2 executes an event in each dining space will be described. When the event execution conditions are met (S10: YES, or S6: YES), the CPU 61 of the mobile terminal device 60 sends an instruction to the event execution system 2 to execute the event in the dining space where the camera (detection unit) 65 was located when the event execution conditions were met (hereinafter referred to as "the relevant dining space"). The control unit of the event execution system 2 (in the first embodiment, at least one of the CPU 101 of the main control device 100 and the CPU 71 of the customer terminal device 7 of the relevant dining space) executes a lottery process (S12). The probability of winning in the lottery process may differ depending on the multiple event execution conditions. For example, the probability of winning in the lottery process may be higher when the event execution condition based on the degree is met than when the event execution condition based on the number of detections is met.

[0124] Next, the CPU 71 of the customer terminal device 7 in the relevant dining space displays the result of the lottery process on the display unit 73 (S13). If the result of the lottery process executed in S12 is a win (S14: YES), the control unit of the event execution system 2 (in the first embodiment, at least one of the CPU 101 of the main control device 100 and the CPU 71 of the customer terminal device 7 in the relevant dining space) instructs the benefit provision device 28 in the relevant dining space to perform a specific provision to the customer (S15). After that, the calculated detection count points are reset (S16), and the process returns to S1. If the result of the lottery process executed in S12 is not a win (S14: NO), no benefit is provided, the detection count points are reset (S16), and the process returns to S1.

[0125] The main control unit 100 manages information for each dining space indicating the time when a customer begins their stay in the dining space and the time when they end their stay (for example, when they pay the bill). The same customer stays in each dining space from the start to the end of their stay. The control unit of the restaurant management system 1 (for example, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100, or the CPU 61 of the mobile terminal device 60, etc.) limits the number of events executed for the same customer to a predetermined number of times according to the calculated points. In other words, if an event resulting from the detection of a particular action has already been performed for the same customer a predetermined number of times, the control unit does not execute the detection process for the specific action (S3) or the event control process (S12~S16). As a result, the possibility of a customer who has finished eating and drinking extending their stay solely for the sake of an event resulting from the detection of a particular action is appropriately reduced. Therefore, the restaurant management system 1 of the first embodiment can appropriately entertain customers with events while suppressing the waiting time for other customers until a dining space becomes available.

[0126] Furthermore, the control unit of the restaurant management system 1 restricts the time period during which it performs detection processing of specific actions (S3) or event control processing (S12-S16) to a predetermined time period. For example, the time period during which processing S3 or S12-S16 is performed may be limited to a certain period after a particular customer has started staying in the dining space. In this case, the possibility of a customer who has finished eating and drinking extending their stay solely for an event caused by the detection of a specific action is appropriately reduced. Alternatively, the time period during which processing S3 or S12-S16 is performed may be restricted to a specific time period (for example, from X to Y), regardless of the customer's stay time in the dining space. In this case, the restaurant can also increase the number of customers visiting during that specific time period.

[0127] As described above, according to the restaurant management system 1 of the first embodiment, when the timing for detecting a specific action by the camera (detection unit) 65 arrives (in the first embodiment, the timing when the camera 65 arrives in the dining space), the detection result of a specific action for a customer in each dining space is acquired, and the content of the event in each dining space is controlled according to the acquired detection result. Therefore, by appropriately setting the detection timing by the camera 65, the restaurant can control the trigger for controlling the content of the event (i.e., the trigger for acquiring the detection result of a specific action). As a result, customers can enjoy their meal while anticipating the arrival of a trigger that will control the content of the event.

[0128] It is also possible to change the configuration and processing of the restaurant management system 1 described in the first embodiment. For example, in the first embodiment, the execution of the lottery process by the event execution system 2 is controlled based on the detection result of a specific action. However, the probability of winning the lottery process, or the content of the benefits provided to the customer if they win the lottery process, may also be controlled based on the detection result of a specific action.

[0129] In the first embodiment, the event execution system 2 provides a prize to the customer as a reward if the result of the lottery process is a win. However, the content of the event executed by the event execution system 2 can be changed as appropriate. For example, the reward provided by the event execution system 2 may be a free service of goods. In this case, the event execution system 2 may deliver the goods free of charge to the dining space where the lottery process result was a win using the order transport device 5. Alternatively, the reward provided by the event execution system 2 may be an electronically provided reward (for example, a reward of providing a discount service, a reward of playing a specific game, a reward of displaying a specific image on the display unit 73, etc., at least one of these). Furthermore, if the detection result of a specific action satisfies predetermined event execution conditions, the event execution system 2 may provide the reward to the customer in the dining space without performing the lottery process (S12). Also, if the event execution condition based on the number of detections is met (S10:YES), the lottery process (S12) is executed, while if the event execution condition based on the degree is met (S6:YES), it is possible to provide the reward without performing the lottery process.

[0130] In the first embodiment, all of the multiple dining spaces are designated as reference positions, thereby identifying the dining space to which the camera (detection unit) 65 is being transported. However, the reference positions are predetermined, and the distance between the reference positions and each dining space on the circulating transport path is also fixed. Furthermore, the transport speed of objects by the circulating transport device 20 is also known. Therefore, the control unit of the restaurant management system 1 may calculate the elapsed time from when the camera (detection unit) 65 passes the reference position until it reaches each dining space, based on the distance on the transport path between the reference positions and each dining space, and the transport speed of objects by the circulating transport device 20, and identify the dining space to which the camera (detection unit) 65 is being transported based on the calculated elapsed time. Alternatively, instead of reading the identifier 26, the restaurant management system 1 can also detect the timing of when the camera (detection unit) 65 passes the reference position by using various sensors such as optical sensors, magnetic sensors, or AI cameras.

[0131] The control unit of the restaurant management system 1 may calculate and add points (for example, the detection count points mentioned above) for each dining space each time the camera (detection unit) 65 is transported to each dining space by the circulating transport device 20, according to the detection results of specific customer actions by the camera 65. If the cumulative total of points calculated and added when the camera 65 is transported to each dining space multiple times satisfies predetermined event execution conditions, the control unit may execute an event by the event execution system 2 in the dining space that satisfies the conditions. In this case, each dining space is given the opportunity to calculate and add points each time the camera (detection unit) 65 completes one circuit by the circulating transport device 20. Therefore, customers can enjoy their meals while repeatedly anticipating that the camera 65 will be transported to their dining space by the circulating transport device 20.

[0132] Furthermore, the points (detection count points) calculated each time the camera (detection unit) 65 is transported to each dining space may have an upper limit lower than the points required to satisfy the event execution conditions (e.g., detection count threshold K). In this case, the event will not be executed if the camera 65 detects a specific action only once; the event will only be executed when the camera 65 is transported to the dining space multiple times and the cumulative points meet the event execution conditions. Therefore, customers can more easily obtain the opportunity to execute the event by actively performing specific actions so that the specific action is detected each time the camera 65 is transported to the dining space where they are staying. Thus, customers can enjoy having specific actions detected each time the camera 65 is transported by the circulating transport device 20.

[0133] The restaurant management system 1 of the first embodiment can identify the dining space from which a product being transported by the circulating transport device 20 has been taken out, based on the detection results from the product take-out detection sensor 21. The control unit of the restaurant management system 1 may execute an event in the relevant dining space when both the condition that the calculated points exceed a threshold and the condition that product take-out is detected are met. In this case, the event will not be executed based solely on points obtained from detecting a specific action; taking out and consuming the product is also one of the conditions for the event to be executed. Therefore, the possibility of customers staying for a long time solely for the purpose of triggering the event is appropriately reduced. The control unit may also execute an event when both the condition that the calculated points exceed a threshold and the condition that the amount of product consumed or the amount spent in the relevant dining space has reached a predetermined value are met. Furthermore, when executing a lottery process as an event, even if the calculated points exceed a threshold, the control unit may not execute the lottery process itself if the amount of product consumed or the amount spent in the relevant dining space has not reached a predetermined value, or it may perform the lottery process but not award any winners.

[0134] The control unit of the restaurant management system 1 in the first embodiment may display images captured by the camera 65 in each dining space on a display unit (for example, the display unit 73 of the customer terminal device 7, or the display unit 63 of the mobile terminal device 60, etc.). The control unit may also transmit images captured in each dining space to a mobile terminal owned by the customer, or to the customer's sending and receiving tool (for example, email). The displayed or transmitted images may be, for example, images captured while a specific action is detected by the camera 65, or images captured while an event is being executed by the event execution system 2. In these cases, customers can enjoy viewing images of themselves captured by the camera 65 while they are staying in the dining space.

[0135] The control unit of the restaurant management system 1 in the first embodiment may transmit images captured by the camera 65 to other businesses that acquire customer information by analyzing the images. In this case, customer information for each dining space is appropriately acquired.

[0136] <Second Embodiment> (System Configuration) Referring to Figures 6 to 10, a second embodiment, which is one of the typical embodiments in this disclosure, will be described with reference to the drawings. At least some of the configurations of the restaurant management system 200 of the second embodiment can be the same as those of the restaurant management system 1 of the first embodiment described above. Therefore, for parts of the configuration of the second embodiment described below that can be the same as those of the first embodiment, the same reference numerals as those used in the first embodiment will be used, and their descriptions will be omitted or simplified.

[0137] In the restaurant management system 200 of the second embodiment, a detection unit (touch panel 74 of the customer terminal device 7 in the second embodiment) that detects specific customer behavior is installed corresponding to each of the multiple dining spaces. Note that the restaurant management system 200 of the second embodiment does not include the circulating transport device 20 (see Figures 1 to 3) described in the first embodiment. However, the restaurant management system 200 of the second embodiment may also use the order transport device 5 and the circulating transport device 20 in combination as transport devices for transporting items such as goods within the store, similar to the restaurant management system 1 of the first embodiment.

[0138] (Configuration of the order handling system) Referring to Figure 6, the configuration of the restaurant management system 200 in the second embodiment, specifically the configuration related to the order delivery device 5, will be described. As shown in Figure 6, each of the multiple tables 6 (dining spaces) is arranged along the order delivery device 5 in the customer area 3. Customer terminal devices 7 are installed corresponding to each of the multiple dining spaces. In the restaurant management system 200 in the second embodiment, customers in the corresponding dining spaces can place orders using a so-called electronic menu displayed by the customer terminal devices 7. For example, based on the customer's order operation to the customer terminal device 7 corresponding to each dining space, the main control unit 100 receives orders from each dining space. The main control unit 100 transfers the order details to the kitchen terminal device 8 located in the kitchen area 4. The kitchen terminal device 8 displays the order details transferred from the main control unit 100 on a monitor. As a result, the products are prepared and served according to the order. Note that the customer terminal device 7 in the second embodiment also functions as part of the event execution system 202 (see Figure 7).

[0139] Multiple order conveying devices 5 are installed in the dining area 3 so that products are delivered near each dining space (table 6 in this embodiment). In this embodiment, two order conveying devices 5 are installed in parallel on the left, center, and right sides when viewed from the kitchen area 4, so as to move away from the kitchen area 4 towards the dining area 3. However, the arrangement and number of order conveying devices 5 can be changed.

[0140] The order conveying device 5 is driven by the main control device 100. Specifically, the main control device 100 controls a drive source (not shown), such as a motor, for driving the order conveying device 5. Driven by the main control device 100, the order conveying device 5 conveys products from the kitchen area 4 to the dining area 3. The delivery of products by the order conveying device 5 is carried out by specifying the dining space to which the products will be delivered (i.e., the dining space of the customer who ordered the products). When the order conveying device 5 conveys products to the destination, it conveys the products from upstream towards the destination, and stops conveying when the products arrive at the destination.

[0141] Each order transport device 5 is equipped with a monitoring device 9. The monitoring device 9 monitors whether or not an object such as a product that has been transported by the order transport device 5 has been removed from the order transport device 5. In addition, a branching lane may be provided at a position corresponding to an adjacent table 6 of the order transport device 5. In this case, a branching device that branches the products being transported by the order transport device 5 to the branching lane may be provided corresponding to each branching lane. The branching device may, for example, have a guide placed at an operating position on the transport path of the order transport device 5, and by contacting the products being transported by the order transport device 5 and changing the transport direction, the products may be branched to the branching lane. Alternatively, the branching device may branch the products being transported by the order transport device 5 to the branching lane by pushing them out one by one from the opposite side of the branching lane using a lever.

[0142] The restaurant management system 200 of the second embodiment includes a kitchen lane 10, transfer devices 13 (13A, 13B, 13C, 13D), input devices 14 (14A, 14B, 14C, 14D), delivery devices 15, kitchen terminal devices, and a main control device 100 within the kitchen area 4.

[0143] Kitchen lane 10 circulates and transports ordered items, such as products ordered by customers, within the kitchen area 4. Multiple compartmental areas are defined along the transport path of kitchen lane 10. Kitchen lane 10 is provided with at least one identifier to identify each compartmental area. In addition, a reader is fixed to at least a portion of the transport path of kitchen lane 10 to read the identifier provided on kitchen lane 10. The position of the identifier, which moves in conjunction with the driving of kitchen lane 10, is read by the reader, and the position of each compartmental area is determined by the main control device 100.

[0144] The kitchen lane 10 is formed in a roughly parallelogram shape by two parallel regions extending linearly along its longitudinal direction and two regions connecting these two regions. Of the two parallel regions extending linearly along its longitudinal direction, the region closer to the multiple order conveying devices 5 is defined as the first conveying area 11. The region further away from the multiple order conveying devices 5 is defined as the second conveying area 12. In the first conveying area 11 and the second conveying area 12, the kitchen lane 10 conveys goods in opposite directions. In the following description, the conveying direction of the kitchen lane 10 in the first conveying area 11 will be referred to as the first direction, and the conveying direction of the kitchen lane 10 in the second conveying area 12 will be referred to as the second direction. The first transport area 11 in the kitchen lane 10 is connected to the upstream end of each of the multiple order transport devices 5 via a transfer device 15.

[0145] The kitchen lane 10 transports the ordered items, prepared according to customer orders, to the corresponding order transport device 5 (i.e., the order transport device 5 located adjacent to the dining area of ​​the customer who placed the order, among multiple order transport devices 5). Furthermore, if, for example, the order transport device 5 that is transporting the ordered items is in operation (e.g., transporting other items), the kitchen lane 10 can circulate the ordered items within the kitchen area 4, allowing them to wait until the order transport device 5 becomes available.

[0146] The transfer device 13 is installed between the first transport area 11 and the second transport area 12, and transfers ordered goods, etc., from one of the first transport area 11 and the second transport area 12 to the other. In this embodiment, the transfer device 13 is provided with shortcut devices 13A and 13C and detour devices 13B and 13D. The shortcut devices 13A and 13C transfer goods from the second transport area 12 to the first transport area 11. The detour devices 13B and 13D transfer goods from the first transport area 11 to the second transport area 12.

[0147] Multiple input devices 14 are installed to accommodate each of the multiple employees. In the second embodiment, the input devices 14 include first input devices 14A and 14C that input products into the first transport area 11 of the kitchen lane 10, and second input devices 14B and 14D that input products into the second transport area 12.

[0148] The transfer device 15 transfers ordered items (in this embodiment, tableware on which the ordered items are placed) from the kitchen lane 10 (specifically, the first transport area 11 of the kitchen lane 10) to the order transport device 5. The transfer device 15 is provided at the rear (upstream) end of each of the multiple order transport devices 5 in the transport direction. The drive of the transfer device 15 is controlled by the main control device 100. As a result, one or more ordered items placed in a specific compartment area of ​​the kitchen lane 10 are transferred to the corresponding order transport device 5 (that is, among the multiple order transport devices 5, the order transport device 5 adjacent to the dining space of the customer who ordered the items).

[0149] (Electrical configuration) Referring to Figure 7, the electrical configuration of the restaurant management system 200 of the second embodiment will be described. The restaurant management system 1 of the second embodiment includes a main control device 100, a customer terminal device 7, an order transport device 5, and a kitchen terminal device 8.

[0150] The main control unit 100 controls the entire restaurant management system 1. The main control unit 100 comprises a CPU 101, a storage device 102, a display unit 103, and an operation unit 104. The main control unit 100 is connected to various devices (for example, a customer terminal device 7, an order transport device 5, and a kitchen terminal device 8, etc.) via at least one of the following: wired communication, wireless communication, and a network.

[0151] The customer terminal device 7 comprises a CPU 71, a storage device 72, a display unit 73, a touch panel 74, a camera 75, and a speaker 76. The touch panel 74 is an example of an operation unit into which customer operation instructions are input, and is provided on the surface of the display unit 73. The touch panel 74 receives operation instructions from the customer for the display area of ​​the display unit 73. Basically, the touch panel 74 of the customer terminal device 7 is operated by the customer in order to order a product. In addition, the touch panel 74 of the second embodiment is used as a detection unit to detect specific customer actions. As will be described in detail later, the touch panel 74 (detection unit) detects the customer's touch operation on the event-related image 90 displayed on the display unit 73 as a specific customer action. Details of this will be described later.

[0152] (How to place an order for a product) Referring to Figure 8, the method by which the customer terminal device 7 of the restaurant management system 200 in the second embodiment receives product orders from customers will be described. In the second embodiment, in order to receive product orders from customers, the customer terminal device 7 displays multiple item-corresponding images 80 corresponding to each of multiple product items, moving them in a predetermined direction (to the right in Figure 8) within the display area of ​​the display unit 73. When a customer finds the item-corresponding image 80 of a desired item among the multiple item-corresponding images 80, they perform a touch operation on the display area of ​​the touch panel 74 corresponding to the item-corresponding image 80 of the desired item. The CPU 71 receives attention to the product item corresponding to the item-corresponding image 80 displayed on the part of the touch panel 74 where the touch operation was performed.

[0153] (Event control processing) Referring to Figures 9 and 10, the event control processing performed by the restaurant management system 200 of the second embodiment will be described. The event control processing of the second embodiment is performed by the CPU 71 of the customer terminal device 7 of the restaurant management system 200. The CPU 71 of the customer terminal device 7 performs the event control processing shown in Figure 9 according to the restaurant management program stored in the storage device 72.

[0154] First, the CPU 71 determines whether or not it is time to display the event-related image 90 (see Figure 10) on the display unit 73 (S21). The event-related image 90 is an image displayed on the display unit 73 in order for the touch panel (detection unit) 74 to detect a specific customer action. In the second embodiment, a touch operation on the display area of ​​the event-related image 90 on the touch panel 74 is detected as a specific customer action. The content of the event by the event execution system 202 (customer terminal device 7 in the second embodiment) is controlled according to the detection result of the specific customer action. The event-related image 90 is not always displayed on the display unit 73, but is temporarily displayed on the display unit 73 each time the timing for displaying the event-related image, which occurs intermittently, arrives. Therefore, customers in each dining space can move around and find the event-related image 90 among the displayed item-corresponding images 80, and touch it to have the touch panel 74 detect a specific action. Thus, customers can pay attention to the display content of the display unit 73 while expecting the event-related image 90 to be displayed on the display unit 73 of the customer terminal device 7. If the timing for displaying event-related image 90 has not yet arrived (S21: NO), the S21 decision is repeated and the system enters a waiting state.

[0155] When it is time to display the event-related image 90 (S21:YES), the CPU 71 displays the event-related image 90 together with the item-corresponding image 80, which is being displayed while moving in a predetermined direction (to the right in Figure 8) within the display area of ​​the display unit 73, as shown in Figure 10 (S22). As an example, the event-related image 90 in this embodiment also serves as an item-corresponding image for accepting orders for campaign products. However, the event-related image 90 does not have to serve as an item-corresponding image. As shown in Figure 10, the event-related image 90 in the second embodiment is accompanied by a message indicating that the content of the event can be controlled by a customer interaction (in the example of Figure 10, the message is "Chance to win lottery points"). Therefore, the customer can appropriately understand from the message that the content of the event can be controlled by performing an interaction (specific action) on the display area of ​​the event-related image 90. Note that there is a time limit for when the event-related image 90 is displayed on the display unit 73. In the second embodiment, the display time of the event-related image 90 is the time from when the display of the event-related image 90 starts on the upstream side in the direction of movement until the event-related image 90 moves out of the display area on the downstream side in the direction of movement.

[0156] When the CPU 71 starts moving and displaying the event-related image 90 (S22), it starts detecting a touch operation (specific action) on the display area of ​​the event-related image 90 by the touch panel (detection unit) 74 (S23). In other words, in the second embodiment, the timing of displaying the event-related image 90 becomes the timing of the touch panel (detection unit) 74 detecting a specific action by the customer. In the second embodiment, the timing of detecting a specific action (the timing of displaying the event-related image 90) is set individually for each of the multiple dining spaces (i.e., multiple customer terminal devices 7). Therefore, the restaurant management system 200 can appropriately set the timing of detecting a specific action according to, for example, the timing when each customer enters the restaurant and the length of time each customer stays in their dining space. Thus, the content of events can be easily controlled appropriately for each dining space. As an example, in the second embodiment, the CPU 71 acquires information on the time when a customer started staying in each of the multiple dining spaces (stay start time). The CPU 71 sets the timing for detecting a specific action (the timing for displaying the event-related image 90) according to the elapsed time since the start of the stay (for example, every T minutes).

[0157] When the CPU 71 starts moving and displaying the event-related image 90 (S22), it determines whether or not a touch operation (specific action) on the display area of ​​the event-related image 90 has been detected by the touch panel 74 (detection unit) (S25). If no touch operation on the event-related image 90 has been detected (S25), the CPU 71 determines whether or not the display of the event-related image 90 on the display unit 73 has finished (S26). If the display of the event-related image 90 has not finished (S26: NO), the process returns to S25, and the determinations in S25-S26 are repeated. If the display of the event-related image 90 has finished (S26: YES), the process returns to S21.

[0158] If the touch panel 74 (detection unit) detects a touch operation on the display area of ​​the event-related image 90 before the display of the event-related image 90 ends (S25:YES), the CPU 71 displays on the display unit 73 that a touch operation on the event-related image 90 has been detected. The CPU 71 adds "1" to the detection count points, which indicate the number of times a specific action has been detected (S28). In the second embodiment, an order for an item (campaign product) corresponding to the event-related image 90 is accepted (S29). The CPU 71 determines whether the cumulative number of detection count points has reached or exceeded the detection count threshold K (for example, "5"), which is the event execution condition based on the number of detections (S30). If the cumulative number of detection count points is less than the detection count threshold K (S30:NO), the process proceeds to S26.

[0159] When the cumulative number of detection counts reaches or exceeds the detection count threshold K, and the event execution condition based on the number of detections is met (S30:YES), the CPU 61 executes a lottery process (S31) and displays the lottery result on the display unit 73 (S32). If the result of the lottery process executed in S31 is a win (S34:YES), the CPU 71 provides the customer with a prize (S35). If the prize is a tangible item such as a prize or merchandise, the prize may be provided to the customer by the order transport device 5. After that, the calculated number of detection counts is reset (S36), and the process returns to S21. If the result of the lottery process executed in S31 is not a win (S34:NO), no prize is provided, the number of detection counts is reset (S36), and the process returns to S21.

[0160] The customer terminal device 7 manages information for each dining space indicating when a customer begins their stay in that space and when they end their stay (for example, when they pay the bill). The same customer stays in each dining space from the start to the end of their stay. The CPU 71 of the customer terminal device 7 limits the number of events executed for the same customer to a predetermined number of times, according to the calculated points. In other words, if an event resulting from the detection of a particular action has already been performed for the same customer a predetermined number of times, the CPU 71 does not execute the detection process for that particular action (S25) or the event control process (S31-S36). As a result, the possibility of prolonging a customer's stay due to events resulting from the detection of a particular action is appropriately reduced.

[0161] Furthermore, the CPU 71 of the customer terminal device 7 restricts the time period during which it performs detection processing of specific actions (S25) or event control processing (S31-S36) to a predetermined time period. For example, the time period during which processing S25 or S31-S36 is performed may be limited to a certain period after a particular customer begins staying in the dining space. In this case, the possibility of a customer extending their stay due to an event caused by the detection of a specific action is appropriately reduced. Alternatively, the time period during which processing S25 or S31-S36 is performed may be restricted to a specific time period (for example, from X to Y), regardless of the customer's stay time in the dining space. In this case, the restaurant can also increase the number of customers visiting during that specific time period.

[0162] As described above, according to the restaurant management system 200 of the second embodiment, when the timing for detecting a specific action (the timing for displaying the event-related image 90) arrives, the event-related image 90 is temporarily displayed on the display unit 73 of the customer terminal device 7. The customer can cause the touch panel 74 to detect a specific action by touching the display area of ​​the event-related image 90 that is temporarily displayed on the display unit 73. Therefore, the customer can enjoy eating and drinking while anticipating that the event-related image 90 will be displayed on the display unit 73. By touching the event-related image 90 displayed on the display unit 73, the customer can expect that the content of the event will be controlled to a desired content. Thus, the customer can enjoy eating and drinking while enjoying the event.

[0163] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, customers perform specific actions on digital images (event-related images 90), which are moving objects displayed within the display area of ​​the display unit 73 installed in each dining space. Therefore, since customers perform specific actions (touch operations) while visually following the digital images moving within the display area of ​​the display unit 73, it becomes easier to increase the customer's motivation to detect specific actions.

[0164] The control unit of the restaurant management system 200 in the second embodiment may display images captured by the camera 75 of the customer terminal device 7 in each dining space on a display unit (for example, the display unit 73 of the customer terminal device 7). The control unit may also transmit images captured by the camera 75 of the customer terminal device 7 in each dining space to a mobile terminal owned by the customer, or to the customer's sending and receiving tool (for example, email). The displayed or transmitted images may be, for example, images captured while a specific action is detected by the touch panel 74, or images captured while an event is being executed by the event execution system 202. In these cases, customers can enjoy viewing images of themselves captured by the camera 75 while they are in the dining space.

[0165] The control unit of the restaurant management system 200 in the second embodiment may transmit images captured by the camera 75 of the customer terminal device 7 to other businesses that acquire customer information by analyzing the images. In this case, customer information for each dining space is appropriately acquired.

[0166] The technologies disclosed in the above embodiments are merely examples. Therefore, it is possible to modify the technologies exemplified in the above embodiments. It is also possible to implement only a portion of the technologies exemplified in the above embodiments.

[0167] For example, in the second embodiment described above, a touch operation on the display area of ​​the event-related image 90 displayed on the display unit 73 is detected by the touch panel 74 as a specific customer action. However, even if a detection unit for detecting specific customer actions is installed corresponding to each of the multiple dining spaces, the detection unit may detect specific customer actions (e.g., smiling) non-contactually, similar to the first embodiment. For example, in the example shown in Figure 11, the camera 75 of the customer terminal device 7 is used as a detection unit for detecting specific customer actions non-contactually. For example, the camera 75 of the customer terminal device 7 detects the degree of smiling of customers in the dining space, similar to the camera (detection unit) 65 of the mobile terminal device 60 in the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 11, when the timing for displaying the event-related image 91 on the display unit 73 arrives, the CPU 71 of the customer terminal device 71 displays the event-related image 91 in the same direction of movement as the item-corresponding image 80, which is being displayed in a predetermined direction of movement (to the right in Figure 8) within the display area of ​​the display unit 73. While the event-related image 91 is displayed on the display unit 73, the CPU 71 detects the degree of the customer's smile using the camera (detection unit) 65, and performs the same processing as in the first embodiment according to the detection result (for example, processing to notify the customer of the detection result using the event-related image 91, and processing to control the event according to the detection result). The event-related image 91 illustrated in Figure 11 does not also serve as an item-corresponding image for accepting product orders. Customers in the dining area can enjoy the event by knowing that the timing for smile detection has arrived as the event-related image 91 moves and is displayed.

Claims

1. A restaurant management system used in a restaurant equipped with multiple dining spaces where customers eat and drink, for managing events conducted within the restaurant, A conveying device that transports objects, including food and beverages, along a transport route, A detection unit that detects specific actions of customers staying in each of the multiple dining spaces arranged along the transport path, which are transported along the transport path by the transport device, An event execution system for carrying out events in each of the aforementioned dining spaces, Control unit and Equipped with, The control unit, In each of the multiple dining spaces, when a detection timing occurs in which the detection unit performs detection of a specific customer behavior, the detection result of the specific behavior by the detection unit for the customer in the dining space where the detection timing occurred is obtained. A restaurant management system characterized by controlling the content of events to be executed by the event execution system in the relevant dining space based on the acquired detection results.

2. A restaurant management system according to claim 1, The detection unit is a non-contact type detection unit that detects the specific behavior without touching the customer. The restaurant management system is characterized in that the detection unit detects at least one of the customer's facial expressions, gestures, and sounds made by the customer as the specific behavior without making contact with the customer.

3. A restaurant management system according to claim 2, The aforementioned detection unit is characterized by including a camera capable of capturing the faces of customers, thereby providing a restaurant management system.

4. A restaurant management system according to claim 3, The restaurant management system is characterized in that the detection unit detects at least one of the number of smiles and the degree of smiles of a customer whose face is photographed by the camera as the customer's specific behavior.

5. A restaurant management system according to claim 1, The restaurant management system is characterized in that the detection unit detects the customer's actions toward a moving object within the customer's field of vision when the detection timing arrives, as the specific actions described above.

6. A restaurant management system according to claim 1, The aforementioned event execution system, A lottery process will be conducted, and if the result of the lottery process is a win, the customer of the relevant dining space will be given a benefit. The control unit, A restaurant management system characterized by controlling the provision of benefits by the event execution system based on the acquired detection results.

7. A restaurant management system according to claim 1, The control unit, Based on the detection results from the detection unit, points corresponding to the detection results for the specific action are calculated. A restaurant management system characterized in that, when the calculated points satisfy predetermined event execution conditions, the event execution system executes an event in the dining space that satisfies the conditions.

8. A restaurant management system according to claim 1, The mobile terminal device further comprises the detection unit, display unit, and controller, and is transported along the transport path by the transport device, As the mobile terminal device is transported by the transport device, the detection unit and the display unit of the mobile terminal device are transported by the transport device. The control unit is characterized by displaying the detection results of the specific behavior detected and acquired by the detection unit for each dining space on the display unit.

9. A restaurant management system according to claim 1, The transport device is a circulating transport device that transports an object including the detection unit in a circulating transport path within the store. The control unit, The detection unit, which is being transported in a circular manner by the aforementioned circulating transport device, acquires transport location identification information that identifies which of the multiple dining spaces arranged along the circulating transport path it is being transported through. A restaurant management system characterized in that, based on the acquired transport location identification information, the timing at which the detection unit being transported by the circulating transport device arrives at each of the multiple dining spaces is defined as the detection timing by the detection unit for each of the dining spaces.

10. A restaurant management system installed in a restaurant equipped with multiple dining spaces where customers eat and drink, A conveying device that transports objects, including food and beverages, along a transport route, A conveying device transports along the transport route and displays a predetermined image to customers in the dining area, Control unit and Equipped with, Multiple of the aforementioned dining spaces are arranged along the transport route, The aforementioned display device is A camera that detects at least one of the specific behaviors of customers staying in each of the multiple dining spaces by capturing images of their facial expressions and gestures, A display unit that displays the aforementioned image, Equipped with, The control unit, Determine whether or not it is a specific timing, When it is determined that the aforementioned specific timing has occurred, the image is displayed on the display unit in the dining space so that it moves along the transport path from upstream to downstream. The detection results of the customer's specific actions in relation to the image are obtained from the camera. Based on the detection result of the acquired specific action, the display unit changes the image it displays. A restaurant management system characterized by the following features.

11. A restaurant management system used in a restaurant equipped with multiple dining spaces where customers eat and drink, for managing events conducted within the restaurant, A conveying device that transports objects, including food and beverages, along a transport route, A mobile terminal device having a display unit and a controller, which is transported along the transport path by the transport device, A detection unit that detects specific actions of customers staying in each of the multiple dining spaces, An event execution system for carrying out events in each of the aforementioned dining spaces, Control unit and Equipped with, Multiple of the aforementioned dining spaces are arranged along the transport route, The control unit, In each of the multiple dining spaces, when the mobile terminal device being transported by the transport device arrives at each of the multiple dining spaces, and a detection timing occurs which is the timing for the detection unit to perform detection of the customer's specific behavior, the detection result of the specific behavior of the customer in the dining space where the detection timing occurred is obtained. A restaurant management system characterized by controlling the content of events to be executed by the event execution system in the relevant dining space based on the acquired detection results.

12. A restaurant management method used in a restaurant equipped with multiple dining spaces where customers eat and drink, and which is implemented in a restaurant management system for managing events that take place inside the restaurant, The aforementioned restaurant management system is A conveying device that transports objects, including food and beverages, along a transport route, A detection unit that detects specific actions of customers staying in each of the multiple dining spaces arranged along the transport path, which are transported along the transport path by the transport device, An event execution system for carrying out events in each of the aforementioned dining spaces, Equipped with, The steps include: obtaining the detection result of the specific behavior of a customer in each of the multiple dining spaces for the customer in the dining space for whom the detection timing for the detection unit to perform the detection of the specific behavior of the customer has arrived; The steps include controlling the content of the event to be executed by the event execution system in the relevant dining space based on the acquired detection results, A restaurant management method characterized by including the following.

13. A restaurant management method to be performed in a restaurant management system installed in a restaurant where multiple dining spaces for customers to eat and drink are provided, The aforementioned restaurant management system is A conveying device that transports objects, including food and beverages, along a transport route, A conveying device transports along the transport route and displays a predetermined image to customers in the dining area, Equipped with, Multiple of the aforementioned dining spaces are arranged along the transport route, The aforementioned display device is A camera that detects at least one of the specific behaviors of customers staying in each of the multiple dining spaces by capturing images of their facial expressions and gestures, A display unit that displays the aforementioned image, Equipped with, A step to determine whether or not it is a specific timing, When it is determined that the aforementioned specific timing has occurred, the step of displaying the image on the display unit so that it moves along the transport route from upstream to downstream in the dining space, The steps include obtaining the detection result of the customer's specific action in relation to the image from the camera, The steps include changing the image displayed by the display unit based on the detection result of the acquired specific action, A restaurant management method characterized by including the following.

14. A restaurant management method used in a restaurant where multiple dining spaces are provided for customers to eat and drink, and which is implemented in a restaurant management system for managing events that take place inside the restaurant, The aforementioned restaurant management system is A restaurant management system used in a restaurant equipped with multiple dining spaces where customers eat and drink, for managing events conducted within the restaurant, A conveying device that transports objects, including food and beverages, along a transport route, A mobile terminal device having a display unit and a controller, which is transported along the transport path by the transport device, A detection unit that detects specific actions of customers staying in each of the multiple dining spaces, An event execution system for carrying out events in each of the aforementioned dining spaces, Equipped with, Multiple of the aforementioned dining spaces are arranged along the aforementioned circulating transport path, In each of the multiple dining spaces, when the mobile terminal device being transported by the transport device arrives at each of the multiple dining spaces, and a detection timing occurs which is the timing for the detection unit to perform detection of the customer's specific behavior, the step of obtaining the detection result of the specific behavior of the customer in the dining space where the detection timing occurred, The steps include controlling the content of the event to be executed by the event execution system in the relevant dining space based on the acquired detection results, A restaurant management method characterized by including the following.

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