Collection management system, dish collection system, collection management method, and program

Abstract

To provide a collection management system capable of properly collect tableware on a table.SOLUTION: A collection management system comprises a table state information acquisition unit which acquires table state information representing the state of a free space on a table that customers use; an order state information acquisition unit which acquires order state information representing a provision state of ordered dishes on the table; and a collection direction unit which directs tableware on the table to be collected by a mobile body based upon the table state information and the order state information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a collection management system, a tableware collection system, a collection management method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] There is known a technology of a serving robot that provides ordered items such as dishes to customers in a restaurant. As a related technology, Patent Document 1 discloses a robot control system in which a serving robot provides services to customers based on situation information (order situation, meal situation, service provision situation, etc.) acquired regarding the customers. In this robot control system, the serving robot autonomously performs operations such as serving dishes and collecting containers according to a workflow dynamically determined based on the situation information.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Ordered items such as dishes ordered by customers are sequentially provided on the customers' tables via the above-described serving robots or store employees. As the provision of ordered items progresses, the space on the table gradually becomes narrower. Therefore, when there are many ordered items, it is necessary to collect used tableware and secure space for placing unprovided ordered items. The technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 does not sufficiently consider such points.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a collection management system, a tableware collection system, a collection management method, and a program capable of appropriately collecting tableware on a table in view of the above-described problems.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The collection management system related to this disclosure is: A table status information acquisition unit acquires table status information that shows the status of available space on tables used by customers, An order status information acquisition unit acquires order status information showing the status of the delivery of ordered items in the table, The system includes a collection instruction unit that issues a collection instruction to a mobile unit to collect the tableware from the table based on the table status information and the order status information.

[0007] The tableware collection system described herein is Mobile and The system includes a collection management system that causes the mobile body to collect the tableware, The aforementioned collection management system is A table status information acquisition unit acquires table status information that shows the status of available space on tables used by customers, An order status information acquisition unit acquires order status information showing the status of the delivery of ordered items in the table, The system includes a collection instruction unit that issues a collection instruction to the mobile unit to collect the tableware from the table based on the table status information and the order status information.

[0008] The collection management method related to this disclosure is as follows: Computers A step to obtain table status information that shows the status of available space on tables used by customers, A step to obtain order status information that shows the status of the order items in the table, The procedure includes a collection instruction step, which involves issuing a collection instruction to a mobile unit to collect the tableware from the table based on the table status information and the order status information.

[0009] The program related to this disclosure is A step to obtain table status information that shows the status of available space on tables used by customers, A step to obtain order status information that shows the status of the order items in the table, The computer is instructed to perform a collection instruction step, which involves issuing a collection instruction to a mobile unit to collect the tableware from the table based on the table status information and the order status information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] The collection management system, tableware collection system, collection management method, and program described herein can properly collect tableware from a table. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This block diagram shows the configuration of the collection management system related to this disclosure. [Figure 2] This flowchart shows the process performed by the collection management system related to this disclosure. [Figure 3] This diagram shows the configuration of the tableware collection system related to this disclosure. [Figure 4] This flowchart shows the recall instruction process performed by the recall management system related to this disclosure. [Figure 5] This flowchart shows the priority setting process performed by the collection management system related to this disclosure. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart showing the retrieval process performed by the mobile entity related to this disclosure. [Figure 7] This is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of a computer that implements the table status confirmation system etc. related to this disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same or corresponding elements are denoted by the same reference numerals. For the sake of clarity of explanation, duplicate explanations may be omitted as necessary.

[0013] <Embodiment 1> Referring to FIG. 1, the recovery management system 100 according to the present disclosure will be described. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the recovery management system 100.

[0014] (Configuration of the recovery management system 100) The recovery management system 100 includes a table status information acquisition unit 101, an order status information acquisition unit 102, and a recovery instruction unit 103. The table status information acquisition unit 101 acquires table status information indicating the status of the empty space on the table used by the customer. The order status information acquisition unit 102 acquires order status information indicating the provision status of the ordered items on the table. The recovery instruction unit 103 issues a recovery instruction to cause the moving body to recover the tableware on the table based on the table status information and the order status information.

[0015] Subsequently, referring to FIG. 2, the processing performed by the recovery management system 100 will be described. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the recovery management system 100. First, the table status information acquisition unit 101 acquires the table status information (S1). Next, the order status information acquisition unit 102 acquires the order status information (S2). Then, the recovery instruction unit 103 issues a recovery instruction to the moving body based on the table status information and the order status information (S3).

[0016] According to the recovery management system 100 according to the present disclosure, since a recovery instruction is issued to cause the moving body to recover the tableware on the table based on the table status information and the order status information, the tableware on the table can be appropriately recovered.

[0017] [[ID=​​​​​​(Configuration of Dish Collection System 1) Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the dish collection system 1 according to this disclosure. The dish collection system 1 is a system capable of properly collecting dishes from tables used by customers. The dish collection system 1 comprises a table status confirmation system 10, an order status confirmation system 20, a collection management system 30, and a mobile unit 40.

[0019] The table status confirmation system 10, the order status confirmation system 20, the collection management system 30, and the mobile unit 40 communicate with each other via network N. Network N is a wired or wireless communication line. The number of each component in the dish collection system 1 is not limited to those shown in the diagram. For example, the dish collection system 1 may have multiple mobile units 40. Also, the dish collection system 1 may have multiple table status confirmation systems 10 and multiple order status confirmation systems 20.

[0020] In the dish collection system 1, the table status confirmation system 10 checks the status of the table being used by the customer, and the order status confirmation system 20 checks the order status of that table. The table status confirmation system 10 and the order status confirmation system 20 transmit their respective confirmation results to the collection management system 30. The collection management system 30 receives the confirmation results from both the table status confirmation system 10 and the order status confirmation system 20, and based on the received confirmation results, issues a collection instruction to the mobile unit 40 to collect the dishes from the table. As a result, the dish collection system 1 can collect dishes (also called clearing tables) on its own, move the mobile unit 40 to the table, and have the mobile unit 40 collect the dishes without receiving instructions from the customer or store employees.

[0021] The dish collection system 1 is applied, for example, to restaurants and bars. However, it is not limited to these, and the dish collection system 1 may be applied to various environments in which dishes can be collected from tables used by customers. For example, the dish collection system 1 may be applied to food courts and event spaces. There only needs to be one or more tables in the environment in which the dish collection system 1 is applied. In this embodiment, an example in which the dish collection system 1 is applied to a restaurant with multiple tables will be used for explanation.

[0022] (Configuration of Table Status Confirmation System 10) The table status confirmation system 10 is a system that checks the available space on each table in the store. The table status confirmation system 10 includes a camera 11, a table status confirmation unit 12, and a communication unit 15.

[0023] Table space refers to the area on the table where ordered items can be placed. Table space is the area on the table where no items are placed. Items may include not only the ordered items provided to the customer, but also complimentary water and chopstick cases that are always available. Table space can also be described as the area of ​​the table remaining after deducting the area where items are placed.

[0024] Camera 11 is an example of a sensor for checking the status of available space on tables used by customers. Camera 11 is positioned to photograph each table within the environment in which the dish collection system 1 is applied. Camera 11 may be positioned to photograph multiple tables. The table status confirmation system 10 may also be equipped with multiple cameras 11.

[0025] Camera 11 is installed, for example, on the ceiling or wall of the store. Camera 11 outputs the captured images obtained by shooting to the table status confirmation unit 12. The captured images may be moving images or still images. Camera 11 may output captured images to the table status confirmation unit 12 at predetermined time intervals.

[0026] In this embodiment, a camera is used as an example of a sensor for checking the status of available space on a table, but the sensor is not limited to a camera and may be, for example, a distance measuring sensor. Distance measuring sensors include, for example, LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging, Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging) and ToF (Time of Flight) sensors. The distance measuring sensor may be installed, like the camera 11, for example, on the ceiling or walls of the store. The table status confirmation system 10 may include both the camera 11 and the distance measuring sensor.

[0027] The table status confirmation unit 12 acquires images from the camera 11 and checks the status of available space on the table based on the captured images. For example, the table status confirmation unit 12 checks for available space by detecting available space on the table based on the captured images. The table status confirmation unit 12 may analyze the captured images using any image recognition technology to detect available space on the table. For example, the table status confirmation unit 12 detects the table and the items placed on the table from the captured images to detect available space on the table. The table status confirmation unit 12 generates table status information indicating the status of available space and transmits the table status information to the retrieval management system 30 via the communication unit 15.

[0028] Table status information may include the area of ​​empty space on the table. Specifically, for example, the table status confirmation unit 12 pre-measures the area of ​​each table in the store and stores the measurement results in a storage unit that is not shown in the diagram. For example, the storage unit stores the area of ​​each table in association with table identification information that identifies each table. The table identification information is, for example, the table number. The table status confirmation unit 12 calculates the area of ​​empty space by subtracting the area of ​​items detected from the captured image from the area of ​​each table that has been pre-stored. The table status confirmation unit 12 generates table status information including the calculated area of ​​empty space.

[0029] The table status confirmation unit 12 may identify the level of available space based on the area of ​​available space and include the identification result in the table status information. For example, the table status confirmation unit 12 classifies the status of available space into categories such as "quite available," "available," "not available," and "not available at all," according to the area of ​​available space. The table status confirmation unit 12 may also represent these levels numerically. The table status confirmation unit 12 generates table status information including the identified level.

[0030] In addition to the above, the table status confirmation unit 12 may also include the location of empty spaces and other information in the table status information.

[0031] The communication unit 15 is a communication interface with the network N. The communication unit 15 may include any device that enables short-range wireless communication, such as Wi-Fi® or Bluetooth®.

[0032] (Configuration of Order Status Confirmation System 20) The order status confirmation system 20 is a system for checking the order status of each table. The order status confirmation system 20 comprises an order status confirmation unit 21 and a communication unit 25.

[0033] The order status confirmation unit 21 checks the status of the delivery of ordered items at each table. For example, the order status confirmation unit 21 first receives orders from each table. Specifically, each table is equipped with an ordering terminal that allows customers to order food and drinks, and customers place their orders using the ordering terminal. However, this is not the only option; store employees may also take orders from customers and place orders using employee terminals.

[0034] When a customer places an order, the order terminal transmits order information to the order status confirmation system 20. The order information includes, for example, table identification information, order date and time, and ordered item name. Instead of the ordered item name, order item identification information that identifies the ordered item may be used.

[0035] The order status confirmation unit 21 stores order information in a storage unit (not shown). The order status confirmation unit 21 manages the delivery status of ordered items and updates the order information as appropriate. For example, when ordered items are delivered to the customer, the order status confirmation unit 21 updates the order information and stores the date and time of delivery of the delivered items. The order status confirmation unit 21 generates order status information indicating the delivery status of ordered items and transmits the order status information to the collection management system 30 via the communication unit 25.

[0036] The order status information may include information on whether or not there are any undelivered ordered items in the table. For example, the order status confirmation unit 21 determines whether or not there are any ordered items in each table for which the delivery date and time are not recorded, and if there are ordered items for which the delivery date and time are not recorded, it includes in the order status information that there are undelivered ordered items. Also, if the delivery date and time of all ordered items are recorded, the order status confirmation unit 21 includes in the order status information that there are no undelivered ordered items. The order status confirmation unit 21 may also perform this determination using a flag that indicates whether or not an ordered item has been delivered.

[0037] Furthermore, the order status information may include the area of ​​space required to provide any undelivered ordered items to the table. The required space is the space on the table that the undelivered ordered items would occupy once they are provided.

[0038] For example, the memory unit of the order status confirmation system 20 stores in advance in a predetermined product table the products that a customer can order and the area of ​​space required for those products. The product table includes, for example, product identification information, product name, and product price. When a customer places an order, the order status confirmation unit 21 refers to the product table and obtains the required space for the ordered items. The order status confirmation unit 21 then generates order status information, including the obtained required space.

[0039] Furthermore, the order status information may include the time of delivery for already delivered ordered items. In addition, the order status information may include the elapsed time since the ordered items were delivered to the table. For example, the order status confirmation unit 21 obtains the time of delivery for already delivered ordered items from the order information and calculates the elapsed time from the time of delivery to the current time. The order status confirmation unit 21 generates the order status information including the calculated elapsed time.

[0040] The order status confirmation unit 21 may generate order status information including other information, not limited to the above. For example, if there are undelivered ordered items, the order status confirmation unit 21 may generate order status information including the number of undelivered ordered items.

[0041] Furthermore, while this example uses an order status confirmation system 20 that receives and manages orders, it is not limited to this. The order status confirmation system 20 may be configured to acquire order information from an order system (not shown) that is separate from the order status confirmation system 20.

[0042] The communication unit 25 is a communication interface with the network N. The communication unit 25 may include any device that enables short-range wireless communication, such as Wi-Fi® or Bluetooth®.

[0043] (Configuration of the collection management system 30) The collection management system 30 is a system for managing the collection of tableware. The collection management system 30 includes a table status information acquisition unit 31, an order status information acquisition unit 32, a collection instruction unit 33, and a communication unit 35. The collection management system 30 is an example of the collection management system 100 described above.

[0044] The collection management system 30 is implemented by, for example, a PC (Personal Computer). The collection management system 30 includes a processor, memory, and storage device (not shown). The storage device stores a computer program on which the processing described herein is implemented. The processor can load the computer program from the storage device into memory and execute the computer program. In this way, the processor realizes the functions of the table status information acquisition unit 31, the order status information acquisition unit 32, and the collection instruction unit 33.

[0045] The table status information acquisition unit 31, the order status information acquisition unit 32, and the retrieval instruction unit 33 may each be implemented with dedicated hardware. Furthermore, some or all of each component may be implemented by general-purpose or dedicated circuits, processors, etc., or combinations thereof. These may be configured by a single chip or by multiple chips connected via a bus. Some or all of each component may be implemented by a combination of the aforementioned circuits, etc., and programs.

[0046] The table status information acquisition unit 31 is an example of the table status information acquisition unit 101 described above. The table status information acquisition unit 31 acquires table status information from the table status confirmation system 10 that indicates the status of available space on the table used by the customer. As described above, the table status information may include the area of ​​available space on the table.

[0047] The order status information acquisition unit 32 is an example of the order status information acquisition unit 102 described above. The order status information acquisition unit 32 acquires order status information from the order status confirmation system 20 that indicates the status of the provision of ordered items at the table. As described above, the order status information may include information on whether or not there are any ordered items that have not yet been provided to the table. The order status information may also include the area of ​​the space required to provide the unprovided ordered items to the table. Furthermore, the order status information may include the elapsed time since the ordered items were provided to the table.

[0048] The retrieval instruction unit 33 is an example of the retrieval instruction unit 103 described above. Based on table status information and order status information, the retrieval instruction unit 33 issues a retrieval instruction to the mobile unit 40 to retrieve the tableware from the table. The retrieval instruction unit 33 generates retrieval instruction information for issuing a retrieval instruction to the mobile unit 40 and transmits the retrieval instruction information to the mobile unit 40 via the communication unit 35. For example, the retrieval instruction unit 33 includes table identification information associated with the table from which the tableware is to be retrieved in the retrieval instruction information.

[0049] The collection instruction unit 33 may set a priority for collecting tableware from tables based on table status information and order status information, and issue collection instructions according to the set priority. For example, the collection instruction unit 33 may specify the order in which tables from which tableware should be collected based on the set priority, and generate collection instruction information including that order. Alternatively, the collection instruction unit 33 may generate collection instruction information including the priority, and have the mobile unit 40 collect the tableware in the order according to the priority.

[0050] The collection instruction unit 33 may set relative priorities among multiple tables, or it may set absolute priorities for each table. For example, the collection instruction unit 33 may set priorities corresponding to each table, such as "1st," "2nd," and "3rd." Alternatively, the collection instruction unit 33 may set priorities for each table in multiple stages, such as "high," "medium," and "low." Not limited to these, the collection instruction unit 33 may also express priorities numerically. The collection instruction unit 33 instructs the mobile unit 40 to collect dishes in order from the tables with the highest priority.

[0051] The collection instruction unit 33 may set a different priority for tables with undelivered ordered items than for tables without undelivered items. For example, the collection instruction unit 33 may set a higher priority for tables with undelivered ordered items than for tables without undelivered items. This allows the collection instruction unit 33 to prioritize the collection of dishes from tables with undelivered ordered items.

[0052] Furthermore, the retrieval instruction unit 33 may compare the area of ​​empty space on the table with the area of ​​space required to provide the undelivered ordered items and set a priority based on the comparison result. For example, the retrieval instruction unit 33 may calculate the difference between the area of ​​empty space and the area of ​​required space and set a priority based on the determination result of whether the difference is less than a predetermined value.

[0053] Here, if we let A be the area of ​​the available space and B be the area of ​​the required space, the difference X can be expressed by the following equation (1). Difference X = Area of ​​empty space A - Area of ​​required space B ... (1)

[0054] For example, the recovery instruction unit 33 sets a higher priority when the difference X is less than a predetermined value than when the difference X is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. In this way, the recovery instruction unit 33 can set a higher priority for tables that have no available space.

[0055] Furthermore, if the area B of the required space is larger than the area A of the empty space, the difference X will be a negative value. In such cases, it is not possible to place the ordered items on the table. In such cases, the retrieval instruction unit 33 may set the highest priority for the table in question.

[0056] The collection instruction unit 33 may set priorities using other methods, not limited to those described above. For example, the collection instruction unit 33 may calculate the ratio of the area B of the required space to the area A of the empty space and set priorities based on the calculation result.

[0057] Furthermore, the collection instruction unit 33 may issue collection instructions taking into account the time elapsed since the ordered items were served to the table. For example, if the elapsed time is less than a predetermined time, the collection instruction unit 33 may refrain from issuing collection instructions to the mobile unit 40 regardless of priority. The predetermined time is, for example, 30 minutes. In this way, since no dishes are collected for 30 minutes after the ordered items are served, customers using tables with a high priority for dish collection can enjoy their meal in peace.

[0058] The predetermined time is not limited to 30 minutes; any time can be set. For example, the collection instruction unit 33 may set the predetermined time according to the store's congestion level or the difference X mentioned above. The collection instruction unit 33 may also take into account the elapsed time for each ordered item, or it may reset the elapsed time when a new ordered item is provided.

[0059] Furthermore, the collection instruction unit 33 may acquire collection status information from the mobile unit 40 indicating the status of tableware collection in the mobile unit 40, and may issue a collection instruction to the mobile unit 40 based on the collection status information. Specifically, the collection instruction unit 33 issues a collection instruction based on table status information, order status information, and collection status information.

[0060] For example, the collection status information includes the amount of tableware that the mobile unit 40 can collect. As will be described later, the mobile unit 40 is equipped with a support section for supporting the tableware collected from the table. The amount of tableware that the mobile unit 40 can collect indicates the amount of tableware that the mobile unit 40 can collect by placing it on the support section before or during the collection of tableware. Details regarding the amount of tableware that the mobile unit 40 can collect will be described later. For example, the collection instruction unit 33 issues a collection instruction to collect the tableware from a high-priority table if 30 minutes or more have passed since the ordered items were served to the table and the mobile unit 40 is capable of collecting the tableware.

[0061] Furthermore, the collection instruction unit 33 controls the mobile unit 40 to move to a predetermined location if the amount of tableware that the mobile unit 40 can collect is less than a predetermined amount. The predetermined location is, for example, a tableware return area for returning the collected tableware. The collection instruction unit 33 generates return instruction information to instruct the mobile unit 40 to return the tableware and transmits the return instruction information to the mobile unit 40 via the communication unit 35. The collection instruction unit 33 may include the location of the return area in the return instruction information.

[0062] The communication unit 35 is a communication interface with the network N. The communication unit 35 may include any device that enables short-range wireless communication, such as Wi-Fi® or Bluetooth®.

[0063] (Configuration of the mobile unit 40) The mobile unit 40 collects the dishes from each table according to the collection instructions of the collection management system 30. The mobile unit 40 may be, for example, an autonomous mobile robot (AMR), an automated guided vehicle (AGV), or a drone. The mobile unit 40 is sometimes called a table-clearing robot.

[0064] The mobile unit 40 includes a sensor 41, a recovery status confirmation unit 42, a recovery control unit 43, and a communication unit 45. The mobile unit 40 also includes a main body, a mobile unit, and a support unit (not shown). The main body includes a control device for operating the mobile unit 40 according to the control of the recovery management system 30. For example, the control device may include a processor, memory, and storage device (not shown). The processor loads a computer program from the storage device into the memory and executes the computer program to realize the functions of the recovery status confirmation unit 42 and the recovery control unit 43. However, the recovery status confirmation unit 42 and the recovery control unit 43 may each be implemented using dedicated hardware.

[0065] The mobile unit consists of wheels or the like for moving the mobile body 40. The mobile unit may use drive means other than wheels. The support unit supports ordered items such as dishes collected from tables and dishes to be served to tables. In this embodiment, a tray capable of supporting dishes and dishes is used as an example of the support unit. When the mobile body 40 receives collection instruction information from the collection management system 30, it moves to the table specified in the collection instruction information. The mobile body 40 transports dishes placed on trays by customers or employees. The mobile body 40 may also be equipped with a robotic arm configured to collect dishes from tables without the need for assistance from customers or employees.

[0066] Sensor 41 is an example of a sensor used to check the status of tableware collection in the mobile unit 40. For example, sensor 41 is a camera that photographs the tray on which the tableware is placed from above. Sensor 41 may also be a weight sensor that measures the weight of the tableware placed on the tray. Furthermore, the mobile unit 40 may be equipped with both a camera and a weight sensor as sensor 41.

[0067] If sensor 41 is a camera, sensor 41 photographs the dishes placed on the tray and outputs the captured image to the retrieval status confirmation unit 42. If sensor 41 is a weight sensor, sensor 41 measures the weight of the dishes placed on the tray and outputs the measured weight data to the retrieval status confirmation unit 42. Sensor 41 may also output captured images and weight data to the retrieval status confirmation unit 42 at predetermined time intervals. Note that, similar to camera 11, sensor 41 may be a distance measuring sensor such as LiDAR.

[0068] The collection status confirmation unit 42 confirms the collection status of the dishes based on the output of the sensor 41. Here, we will explain using the case where the sensor 41 is a camera as an example. The collection status confirmation unit 42 analyzes the captured image using any image recognition technology and detects the dishes on the tray. The collection status confirmation unit 42 generates collection status information indicating the collection status of the dishes and transmits the collection status information to the collection management system 30 via the communication unit 45.

[0069] The collection status information may include the amount of tableware that the mobile unit 40 can collect. For example, the mobile unit 40 stores in advance a collection limit, which indicates the maximum amount of tableware that can be placed on the tray, in a storage unit (not shown). The collection limit may be set based on the space required for each type of tableware to be placed on the tray. The space for each type of tableware may be set for each type of tableware. Examples of tableware types include large plates, small plates, cups, bowls, or pots. The collection limit may be set using the number of pieces or items for each type of tableware, or it may be set using a combination of multiple types. The collection limit may also be set taking into account the total weight of the tableware placed on the tray.

[0070] The collection status confirmation unit 42 calculates the difference between the collection limit and the amount of tableware on the tray, and includes this difference in the collection status information as the amount of tableware that the mobile unit 40 can collect. For example, if there are no dishes on the support, the amount of tableware that the mobile unit 40 can collect is the collection limit. If there are dishes on the support, the amount of tableware that the mobile unit 40 can collect is the collection limit minus the amount of tableware on the support.

[0071] For example, the collection status confirmation unit 42 may detect empty space on the tray based on the captured image, identify the dishes that can be placed in the empty space, and calculate the amount of dishes that can be collected using the identification result. The collection status confirmation unit 42 may further identify the shape of the empty space on the tray and calculate the amount of dishes that can be collected taking the identified shape into account. The collection status confirmation unit 42 may include information such as "enough space for three cups" as the empty space on the tray in the collection status information. The collection status confirmation unit 42 may also include the area of ​​the empty space on the tray in the collection status information.

[0072] The collection control unit 43 controls the mobile unit 40 to collect tableware in accordance with the control of the collection management system 30. Specifically, when the mobile unit 40 receives collection instruction information from the collection management system 30, the collection control unit 43 controls the mobile unit to move it to the table indicated by the collection instruction information. The collection control unit 43 uses a sensor 41 or the like to detect when tableware is placed on the tray and moves the mobile unit 40 with the tableware on the tray.

[0073] Furthermore, the collection control unit 43 controls the mobile unit 40 to move to another table and continue collecting dishes after collecting dishes from one table. For example, based on the collection status information transmitted from the collection status confirmation unit 42 to the collection management system 30, the collection control unit 43 continues collecting dishes in accordance with the collection instruction issued by the collection management system 30.

[0074] For example, suppose the collection status confirmation unit 42 includes "three cups" in the collection status information and transmits it to the collection management system 30, and the collection management system 30 instructs the collection of dishes to a table where three or fewer cups can be collected. In this case, the collection control unit 43 moves the mobile unit 40 to the table and collects the cups. In this way, by issuing collection instructions based on the collection status information, the collection control unit 43 can efficiently collect dishes according to the collection status of the dishes.

[0075] Furthermore, the collection control unit 43 controls the mobile unit 40 in accordance with the control of the collection management system 30 in order to return the dishes. Specifically, when the mobile unit 40 receives return instruction information from the collection management system 30, the collection control unit 43 controls the mobile unit to move the mobile unit 40 to the predetermined location indicated by the return instruction information. In this way, the mobile unit 40 can return the dishes placed on the tray to the dish return location, etc., and continue collecting dishes.

[0076] The communication unit 45 is a communication interface with the network N. The communication unit 45 may include any device that enables short-range wireless communication, such as Wi-Fi® or Bluetooth®.

[0077] The configurations of the dish collection system 1 have been described above. The configuration of the dish collection system 1 described above is merely an example and can be modified as appropriate. For example, if some or all of the components of the table status confirmation system 10, order status confirmation system 20, collection management system 30, and mobile unit 40 are implemented by multiple information processing devices or circuits, these multiple information processing devices or circuits may be centrally located or distributed. For example, the information processing devices or circuits may be implemented in a form in which each is connected via a communication network, such as a client-server system or a cloud computing system. Furthermore, the functions of the table status confirmation system 10, order status confirmation system 20, and collection management system 30 may be provided in SaaS (Software as a Service) format.

[0078] (Recovery instruction processing by recovery management system 30) Next, with reference to Figure 4, the collection instruction processing performed by the collection management system 30 will be explained. Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the collection instruction processing performed by the collection management system 30. The collection management system 30 may repeatedly perform the collection instruction processing shown in Figure 4 for each table in the store at predetermined time intervals.

[0079] Furthermore, the table status confirmation unit 12 of the table status confirmation system 10 generates table status information based on images captured by the camera 11 and transmits the generated table status information to the collection management system 30 at predetermined time intervals. In addition, the order status confirmation unit 21 of the order status confirmation system 20 transmits order status information to the collection management system 30 at predetermined time intervals.

[0080] First, the table status information acquisition unit 31 acquires table status information from the table status confirmation system 10 (S11). The table status information includes, for example, the area of ​​empty space on the table.

[0081] Next, the order status information acquisition unit 32 acquires order status information from the order status confirmation system 20 (S12). For example, the order status information includes information on whether or not there are any unserved ordered items on the table. The order status information may also include the area of ​​space required to serve the unserved ordered items on the table. Furthermore, the order status information may include the elapsed time since the ordered items were served on the table.

[0082] Next, the retrieval instruction unit 33 determines, based on the order status information, whether a predetermined time (e.g., 30 minutes) has elapsed since the delivery of the ordered items (S13). For example, the retrieval instruction unit 33 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the delivery of the last delivered ordered item. If it determines that a predetermined time has not elapsed since the delivery of the ordered items (NO in S13), the retrieval management system 30 returns to step S11 and repeats the process.

[0083] If it is determined that a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the order was delivered (YES in S13), the collection instruction unit 33 sets the priority for collecting the dishes based on the table status information and the order status information (S14). Details of the priority setting process will be described later.

[0084] Next, the retrieval instruction unit 33 issues a retrieval instruction to the mobile unit 40 according to the set priority (S15). Specifically, the retrieval instruction unit 33 generates retrieval instruction information and transmits the generated retrieval instruction information to the mobile unit 40. As a result, the mobile unit 40 moves to the table indicated by the retrieval instruction information and retrieves the dishes.

[0085] The retrieval instruction unit 33 determines whether or not it has received retrieval status information from the mobile unit 40 (S16). The retrieval status information includes, for example, the amount of tableware that the mobile unit 40 can retrieve. If it determines that it has not received retrieval status information from the mobile unit 40 (NO in S16), the retrieval instruction unit 33 repeats the process in step S16. If it determines that it has received retrieval status information from the mobile unit 40 (YES in S16), the retrieval instruction unit 33 determines whether or not there is tableware that the mobile unit 40 can retrieve (S17). For example, if the amount of tableware that the mobile unit 40 can retrieve is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount, the retrieval instruction unit 33 determines that there is tableware that can be retrieved, and if it is less than the predetermined amount, it determines that there is no tableware that can be retrieved.

[0086] If the mobile unit 40 determines that there are dishes that can be collected (YES in S17), the collection instruction unit 33 issues a collection instruction to the mobile unit 40 (S18) and terminates the collection instruction process. If the mobile unit 40 determines that there are no dishes that can be collected (NO in S17), the collection instruction unit 33 issues a return instruction to the dishes (S19). Specifically, the collection instruction unit 33 controls the mobile unit 40 to move to a dish return area provided in the store. The collection instruction unit 33 terminates the collection instruction process.

[0087] (Priority setting process for collection management system 30) Referring to Figure 5, the priority setting process shown in step S14 of Figure 4 will be explained. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the priority setting process performed by the collection management system 30.

[0088] First, the retrieval instruction unit 33 determines whether or not there are any undelivered ordered items in the table (S21). If it determines that there are no undelivered ordered items (NO in S21), the retrieval instruction unit 33 sets a low priority for the table (S25). For example, the retrieval instruction unit 33 sets the priority of the table to "low". Then the retrieval instruction unit 33 terminates the priority setting process.

[0089] If it is determined that there are undelivered ordered items (YES in S21), the retrieval instruction unit 33 calculates the difference between the area of ​​the empty space on the table and the area of ​​the required space (S22). The retrieval instruction unit 33 determines whether the difference is less than a predetermined value (S23).

[0090] If the system determines that the difference is greater than or equal to a predetermined value (NO in S23), the retrieval instruction unit 33 sets a low priority for the table (S25) and terminates the priority setting process. If the system determines that the difference is less than a predetermined value (YES in S23), the retrieval instruction unit 33 sets a high priority for the table (S24). For example, the retrieval instruction unit 33 sets the priority of the table to "high". The retrieval instruction unit 33 then terminates the priority setting process. However, the retrieval instruction unit 33 is not limited to this; for example, it may calculate the ratio of the area of ​​required space to the area of ​​empty space and set the priority based on the calculation result.

[0091] In this example, the retrieval instruction unit 33 sets priorities using different processes depending on whether there are undelivered ordered items or not, but it is not limited to this. The retrieval instruction unit 33 may also set priorities based on table status information and order status information, regardless of whether there are undelivered ordered items or not.

[0092] (Recovery process for mobile unit 40) Next, with reference to Figure 6, the retrieval process performed by the mobile unit 40 will be explained. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the retrieval process performed by the mobile unit 40.

[0093] First, the retrieval control unit 43 determines whether or not an instruction has been received from the retrieval management system 30 (S31). Specifically, the retrieval control unit 43 determines that an instruction has been received if it receives retrieval instruction information or return instruction information from the retrieval management system 30. If it determines that there is no instruction (NO in S31), the retrieval control unit 43 repeats the process in step S31. As a result, the mobile unit 40 waits until an instruction is received from the retrieval management system 30.

[0094] If it is determined that an instruction has been given (YES in S31), the retrieval control unit 43 confirms the content of the instruction (S32). If the content of the instruction is a retrieval instruction ("retrieval" in S32), the retrieval control unit 43 moves the mobile unit 40 to the table indicated by the retrieval instruction information (S33). When the mobile unit 40 arrives at the table, it retrieves the dishes (S34). For example, when a store employee or a customer using the table places dishes on the tray of the mobile unit 40, the mobile unit 40 retrieves the dishes.

[0095] Next, the collection status confirmation unit 42 checks the collection status of the dishes based on the output result of the sensor 41 (S35). For example, if the sensor 41 is a camera, the collection status confirmation unit 42 analyzes the captured image to detect the dishes on the tray. The collection status confirmation unit 42 generates collection status information and transmits the generated collection status information to the collection management system 30 (S36). For example, the collection status confirmation unit 42 calculates the difference between the collection limit and the amount of dishes on the tray, and includes this difference in the collection status information as the amount of dishes that the mobile unit 40 can collect. The mobile unit 40 finishes the collection process and waits until there is a new instruction.

[0096] In step S32, if the instruction from the collection management system 30 is a return instruction ("return" in S32), the collection control unit 43 moves the mobile unit 40 to the return location indicated by the return instruction information (S37). The mobile unit 40 returns the collected dishes (S38). For example, when a store employee collects the dishes placed on a tray, the mobile unit 40 returns the dishes.

[0097] Next, the collection status confirmation unit 42 resets the amount of tableware that the mobile unit 40 can collect (S39). The collection status confirmation unit 42 generates collection status information and transmits the generated collection status information to the collection management system 30 (S36). For example, the collection status confirmation unit 42 includes the collection limit amount as the amount of tableware that the mobile unit 40 can collect in the collection status information. The mobile unit 40 finishes the collection process and waits until it receives a new instruction.

[0098] As described above, in the dish collection system 1 of this disclosure, the table status confirmation system 10 generates table status information indicating the status of available space on the table used by the customer and transmits it to the collection management system 30. The order status confirmation system 20 also transmits order status information indicating the status of the delivery of ordered items at the table to the collection management system 30. Based on the table status information and order status information, the collection management system 30 issues a collection instruction to the mobile unit 40 to collect the dishes from the table. In this way, the dish collection system 1 issues a collection instruction taking into account the status of available space on the table and the order status, so that dishes can be collected at a timing that matches the available space on the table and the order status.

[0099] Furthermore, the collection management system 30 sets the priority for collecting tableware from tables based on table status information and order status information. For example, the collection instruction unit of the collection management system 30 sets a different priority when there are undelivered ordered items on a table than when there are no undelivered ordered items. This allows the collection management system 30 to issue collection instructions according to the delivery status of ordered items.

[0100] Furthermore, for example, the collection management system 30 compares the area of ​​available space with the area of ​​required space and sets priorities based on the comparison results, so that collection instructions can be issued according to the available space on the table.

[0101] Furthermore, the collection management system 30 can issue collection instructions based on collection status information indicating the status of tableware collection in the mobile unit 40. This allows the collection management system 30 to appropriately issue instructions to continue collecting tableware or to return the tableware, depending on whether the mobile unit 40 is capable of collecting the tableware.

[0102] With this configuration, the dish collection system 1 described herein can properly collect dishes from tables, thereby reducing the time required for dish collection, improving the overall turnover rate of the store, and increasing sales.

[0103] <Example Hardware Configuration> Each functional component of the table status confirmation system 10, order status confirmation system 20, collection management system 30, and mobile unit 40 (hereinafter referred to as "table status confirmation system 10, etc.") described above may be implemented by hardware (e.g., hardwired electronic circuits) or by a combination of hardware and software (e.g., a combination of electronic circuits and programs that control them). The case in which each functional component of the table status confirmation system 10, etc. is implemented by a combination of hardware and software will be further explained below.

[0104] Figure 7 is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of a computer 900 that implements the table status confirmation system 10, etc. The computer 900 may be a dedicated computer designed to implement the table status confirmation system 10, etc., or it may be a general-purpose computer. The computer 900 may also be a portable computer such as a smartphone or tablet terminal.

[0105] For example, by installing a predetermined application on computer 900, various functions such as the table status confirmation system 10 are realized on computer 900. The above application consists of a program for realizing the functional components of the table status confirmation system 10.

[0106] Computer 900 includes a bus 902, a processor 904, memory 906, a storage device 908, an input / output interface 910, and a network interface 912. The bus 902 is a data transmission path for the processor 904, memory 906, storage device 908, input / output interface 910, and network interface 912 to send and receive data to and from each other. However, the method of connecting the processor 904 and other components to each other is not limited to bus connection.

[0107] The processor 904 is a variety of processors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or quantum processor (quantum computer control chip). The memory 906 is the main memory, implemented using RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The storage device 908 is the auxiliary storage, implemented using a hard disk, SSD (Solid State Drive), memory card, or ROM (Read Only Memory), etc.

[0108] The input / output interface 910 is an interface for connecting the computer 900 with input / output devices. For example, input devices such as keyboards and output devices such as display devices are connected to the input / output interface 910.

[0109] The network interface 912 is an interface for connecting computer 900 to a network. This network may be a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network).

[0110] The storage device 908 stores programs that implement each functional component of the table status confirmation system 10, etc. (programs that implement the aforementioned applications). The processor 904 reads these programs into memory 906 and executes them to implement each functional component of the table status confirmation system 10, etc.

[0111] Each processor executes one or more programs containing a set of instructions for causing the computer to perform an algorithm. These programs, when loaded into the computer, contain a set of instructions (or software code) for causing the computer to perform one or more functions described in the embodiments. The programs may be stored in various types of non-transitory computer-readable medium or tangible storage medium. Examples, but not limited to, include non-transitory computer-readable medium or tangible storage medium, such as RAM, ROM, flash memory, SSD or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), Blu-ray® disc or other optical disc storage, magnetic cassette, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices. The programs may also be transmitted over various types of transient computer-readable medium or communication medium. Examples, but not limited to, include transient computer-readable medium or communication medium, such as electrical, optical, acoustic or other forms of propagating signals.

[0112] Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. Various modifications to the structure and details of the present disclosure are possible, as can be understood by those skilled in the art within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, each embodiment can be combined with other embodiments as appropriate.

[0113] For example, the collection management system 30 may use various methods other than those described above to detect signs of a customer leaving the store and issue collection instructions to the mobile unit 40 based on the detection results. For example, the above description illustrates an example in which table status information indicates the status of available space on the table used by the customer, but it is not limited to this. Table status information may also indicate the status of the remaining space on each piece of tableware on the table. Alternatively, table status information may include both the available space on the table and the remaining space on each piece of tableware.

[0114] The remaining space on each dish indicates the progress of the customer's meal. Compared to when the ordered items were served, the remaining space on each dish increases as the meal progresses. The table status confirmation unit 12 of the table status confirmation system 10 detects the remaining space on each dish based on the images captured by the camera 11 and includes the detected remaining space in the table status information. In this way, the collection instruction unit 33 of the collection management system 30 can issue collection instructions for finished dishes, etc., before the available space on the table becomes too small.

[0115] For example, the order status information acquisition unit 32 of the collection management system 30 may acquire information on whether or not a customer has left the store based on the order information. For example, the order information includes, in addition to the table identification information and order date and time mentioned above, information on whether or not payment has been made. If there are tables that have been paid for, the collection instruction unit 33 of the collection management system 30 receives instructions from an employee and issues a collection instruction to the mobile unit 40. In this way, the collection instruction unit 33 can promptly issue a collection instruction when a customer leaves the store. Also, because the collection instruction unit 33 issues a collection instruction after receiving instructions from an employee, the employee can quickly place the dishes on the tray, thus reducing the waiting time of the mobile unit 40.

[0116] Furthermore, the drawings used in the embodiments are merely illustrative to illustrate one or more embodiments. Each drawing may be associated not only with one specific embodiment but also with one or more other embodiments. As those skilled in the art will understand, various features or steps described with reference to any one of the drawings can be combined with features or steps shown in one or more other drawings to create embodiments that are not explicitly illustrated or described. Not all features or steps shown in any one of the drawings to illustrate an exemplary embodiment are necessarily required, and some features or steps may be omitted. The order of the steps shown in any of the drawings may be changed as appropriate.

[0117] Some or all of the above embodiments may also be described as follows, but are not limited to the following: (Note 1) A table status information acquisition unit acquires table status information that shows the status of available space on tables used by customers, An order status information acquisition unit acquires order status information showing the status of the delivery of ordered items in the table, The system includes a collection instruction unit that issues a collection instruction to cause a mobile unit to collect the tableware from the table based on the table status information and the order status information. Collection management system. (Note 2) The collection instruction unit sets a priority for collecting tableware from the table based on the table status information and the order status information, and issues the collection instruction according to the set priority. The collection management system described in Appendix 1. (Note 3) The aforementioned order status information includes information on whether or not there are any undelivered ordered items in the table. The retrieval instruction unit sets a different priority if there are undelivered ordered items than if there are no undelivered ordered items. The collection management system described in Appendix 2. (Note 4) The table status information includes the area of ​​the empty space, The aforementioned order status information includes the area of ​​the necessary space required to provide the undelivered ordered items to the table. The recovery instruction unit compares the area of ​​the available space with the area of ​​the required space and sets the priority based on the comparison result. The collection management system described in Appendix 3. (Note 5) The aforementioned order status information includes the time elapsed since the ordered items were provided to the table. The recovery instruction unit issues the recovery instruction taking into account the elapsed time. A collection management system as described in any one of the following appendices 1 to 4. (Note 6) The collection instruction unit issues the collection instruction based on collection status information indicating the status of tableware collection in the mobile unit. A collection management system as described in any one of the following appendices 1 to 5. (Note 7) The aforementioned recovery status information includes the amount of tableware that the mobile body can recover, The collection instruction unit will move the mobile body to a predetermined location if the amount of tableware that the mobile body can collect is less than a predetermined amount. The collection management system described in Appendix 6. (Note 8) Mobile and The system includes a collection management system that causes the mobile body to collect the tableware, The aforementioned collection management system is A table status information acquisition unit acquires table status information that shows the status of available space on tables used by customers, An order status information acquisition unit acquires order status information showing the status of the delivery of ordered items in the table, The system includes a collection instruction unit that issues a collection instruction to cause the mobile unit to collect the tableware from the table based on the table status information and the order status information. Dish recycling system. (Note 9) Computers A step to obtain table status information that shows the status of available space on tables used by customers, A step to obtain order status information that shows the status of the order items in the table, A collection instruction step is performed, in which a collection instruction is issued to cause a mobile unit to collect the tableware from the table based on the table status information and the order status information. Collection and management methods. (Note 10) A step to obtain table status information that shows the status of available space on tables used by customers, A step to obtain order status information that shows the status of the order items in the table, The computer is instructed to perform a collection instruction step, which involves issuing a collection instruction to a mobile unit to collect the tableware from the table based on the table status information and the order status information. program.

[0118] Some or all of the elements (e.g., configuration and function) described in Appendices 2 to 7 that are dependent on Appendice 1 may also be dependent on Appendices 8, 9, and 10 in the same manner as those described in Appendices 2 to 7. Some or all of the elements described in any appendice may be applied to various hardware, software, recording means, systems, and methods for recording software. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0119] 1. Dish collection system 10 Table Status Confirmation System 11 Cameras 12 Table Status Confirmation Section 15 Communications Department 20. Order Status Confirmation System 21 Order Status Confirmation Department 25 Communications Department 30 Collection Management System 31 Table Status Information Acquisition Unit 32 Order Status Information Acquisition Unit 33. Recovery Instruction Unit 35 Communications Department 40 Mobile Units 41 Sensors 42. Recovery Status Confirmation Department 43 Recovery Control Unit 45 Communications Department 100 Collection Management System 101 Table Status Information Acquisition Unit 102 Order Status Information Acquisition Unit 103 Recovery Instruction Unit 900 Computers 902 Bus 904 Processor 906 memory 908 Storage Devices 910 Input / Output Interface 912 Network Interface N Network

Claims

1. A table status information acquisition unit acquires table status information that shows the status of available space on tables used by customers, An order status information acquisition unit acquires order status information showing the status of the delivery of ordered items in the table, The system includes a collection instruction unit that issues a collection instruction to cause a mobile unit to collect the tableware from the table based on the table status information and the order status information, The collection instruction unit sets a priority for collecting tableware from the table based on the table status information and the order status information, and issues the collection instruction according to the set priority. Collection management system.

2. The aforementioned order status information includes information on whether or not there are any undelivered ordered items in the table. The retrieval instruction unit sets a different priority if there are undelivered ordered items than if there are no undelivered ordered items. The recovery management system according to claim 1.

3. The table status information includes the area of ​​the empty space, The aforementioned order status information includes the area of ​​the necessary space required to provide the undelivered ordered items to the table. The recovery instruction unit compares the area of ​​the available space with the area of ​​the required space and sets the priority based on the comparison result. The recovery management system according to claim 2.

4. A table status information acquisition unit acquires table status information that shows the status of available space on tables used by customers, An order status information acquisition unit acquires order status information showing the status of the delivery of ordered items in the table, The system includes a collection instruction unit that issues a collection instruction to cause a mobile unit to collect the tableware from the table based on the table status information and the order status information, The aforementioned order status information includes the time elapsed since the ordered items were provided to the table. The recovery instruction unit issues the recovery instruction taking into account the elapsed time. Collection management system.

5. A table status information acquisition unit acquires table status information that shows the status of available space on tables used by customers, An order status information acquisition unit acquires order status information showing the status of the delivery of ordered items in the table, The system includes a collection instruction unit that issues a collection instruction to cause a mobile unit to collect the tableware from the table based on the table status information and the order status information, The collection instruction unit issues the collection instruction based on collection status information indicating the status of tableware collection in the mobile unit. Collection management system.

6. The aforementioned recovery status information includes the amount of tableware that the mobile body can recover, The collection instruction unit will move the mobile body to a predetermined location if the amount of tableware that the mobile body can collect is less than a predetermined amount. The recovery management system according to claim 5.

7. Mobile and A collection management system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising: Dish recycling system.

8. Computers A step to obtain table status information that shows the status of available space on tables used by customers, A step to obtain order status information that shows the status of the order items in the table, A collection instruction step is given to issue a collection instruction to cause a mobile unit to collect the tableware from the table based on the table status information and the order status information. Execute, In the aforementioned collection instruction step, the priority for collecting tableware from the table is set based on the table status information and the order status information, and the collection instruction is issued according to the set priority. Collection and management methods.

9. Computers A step to obtain table status information that shows the status of available space on tables used by customers, A step to obtain order status information that shows the status of the order items in the table, A collection instruction step is performed in which a collection instruction is issued to cause a mobile unit to collect the tableware from the table based on the table status information and the order status information. The aforementioned order status information includes the time elapsed since the ordered items were provided to the table. In the aforementioned retrieval instruction step, the retrieval instruction is given taking into account the elapsed time. Collection and management methods.

10. Computers A step to obtain table status information that shows the status of available space on tables used by customers, A step to obtain order status information that shows the status of the order items in the table, A collection instruction step is performed in which a collection instruction is issued to cause a mobile unit to collect the tableware from the table based on the table status information and the order status information. In the aforementioned retrieval instruction step, the retrieval instruction is given based on retrieval status information indicating the retrieval status of the tableware in the mobile unit. Collection and management methods.

11. Computers, A program for functioning as a collection management system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

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