Reading device, information processing device, accounting system, reading method, information processing method, accounting method, and program

Abstract

This reading device (10) comprises a commodity reading unit (101), an imaging unit (150), an identification unit (250), and a control unit (230). The commodity reading unit (101) is provided in a passage through which a person who intends to purchase a commodity passes, and reads commodity information from a wireless communication tag attached to the commodity. The imaging unit (150) captures an image including at least one among a reading region of the commodity reading unit (101) and the periphery of the reading region. The identification unit (250) uses the reading result of the commodity reading unit (101) and identifies the commodity carried by the person who has passed through the passage. The control unit (230) controls at least one among the reading condition of the commodity reading unit (101) and the identification unit (250) on the basis of the result obtained by processing the image.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a reading device, an information processing device, an accounting system, a reading method, an information processing method, an accounting method, and a recording medium.

Background Art

[0002] For accounting of products and the like, the development of a technology for reading information from an RF (Radio Frequency) tag attached to a product has been progressing.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a technique that uses a reading result regarding a first person who has passed through a gate and a reading result regarding a second person who has passed through the gate next in order to prevent misrecognition of products. In the technique described in Patent Document 1, when information regarding the same tag is included in both the reading result of the first person and the reading result of the second person, the reading result of the first person is determined based on the magnitude of the radio wave intensity received from the same tag.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the technique of Patent Document 1 described above, it sometimes takes time to determine the reading result of the first person while waiting for the second person to finish passing through the gate.

[0006] An example of the object of the present invention is to provide a reading device, an information processing device, an accounting system, a reading method, an information processing method, an accounting method, and a recording medium that can smoothly identify products possessed by a person who has passed through a predetermined passage with high accuracy in view of the above-described problems.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, It is installed in a passageway through which people intending to purchase goods pass, and includes a product reading device that reads product information from wireless communication tags attached to the products, A photographing means for capturing an image that includes at least one of the reading area of ​​the product reading means and the area surrounding the reading area, A means for identifying the goods possessed by a person who passed through the passage, using the reading results of the aforementioned goods reading means, Based on the results of processing the aforementioned image, a control means controls the reading conditions of the product reading means and at least one of the identifying means. Equipped with A reading device is provided.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, A product reading means is installed in a passageway through which a person intending to purchase a product passes, and reads product information from a wireless communication tag attached to the product. The product reading means includes a first acquisition means that acquires the read result. A second acquisition means for acquiring an image that includes at least one of the reading area of ​​the product reading means and the area surrounding the reading area, A means for identifying the goods possessed by a person who passed through the passage, using the reading results of the aforementioned goods reading means, Based on the results of processing the aforementioned image, a control means controls the reading conditions of the product reading means and at least one of the identifying means. Equipped with An information processing device is provided.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, The above-mentioned reading device and, The identification means includes an accounting device that performs accounting for the target goods identified as being in the possession of a person who passed through the passage. An accounting system will be provided.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, This involves using a product reading device installed in a passageway through which a person intending to purchase a product passes, to read product information from a wireless communication tag attached to the product, and The process involves capturing an image that includes at least one of the reading area of ​​the product reading means and the area surrounding the reading area, Using the reading results of the aforementioned product reading means, the product possessed by the person who passed through the passage is identified. Based on the results of processing the aforementioned image, control at least one of the reading conditions of the product reading means and the method for identifying the product held by the person who passed through the passage. including A reading method is provided.

[0011] According to one aspect of the present invention, One or more computers It is installed in the passageway through which people intending to purchase products pass, and a product reading device reads product information from wireless communication tags attached to the products, and acquires the read results. An image is acquired that includes at least one of the reading area of ​​the product reading means and the area surrounding the reading area. Using the reading results of the aforementioned product reading means, the product possessed by the person who passed through the passage is identified. Based on the results of processing the aforementioned images, control at least one of the reading conditions of the product reading means and the method for identifying the product held by the person who passed through the passage. Information processing methods are provided.

[0012] According to one aspect of the present invention, One or more computers The identification means provided in the above-mentioned reading device performs accounting processing for the target product identified as being in the possession of a person who passed through the passage. Accounting methods are provided.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present invention, A computer-readable recording medium that stores a program, The program causes a computer to a first acquisition means for acquiring a reading result read by a product reading means provided in a passage through which a person who intends to purchase a product passes and for reading product information from a wireless communication tag attached to the product; a second acquisition means for acquiring an image including at least one of a reading area of the product reading means and the periphery of the reading area; a specifying means for specifying a product possessed by a person who has passed through the passage by using a reading result of the product reading means; and a control means for controlling at least one of a reading condition of the product reading means and the specifying means based on a result of processing the image to function as A recording medium is provided.

Advantages of the Invention

[0014] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a reading device, an information processing device, an accounting system, a reading method, an information processing method, an accounting method, and a recording medium that can smoothly specify with high accuracy a product possessed by a person who has passed through a predetermined passage.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0015] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing an outline of a reading device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing an outline of an information processing device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] It is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a reading device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] It is a diagram illustrating a usage environment of a reading device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 5] It is a diagram illustrating a usage environment of a reading device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing an outline of a reading method according to a first embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a diagram illustrating a computer for realizing an information processing device. [Figure 8]This figure shows an overview of the information processing method according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] This figure illustrates the functional configuration of the reading device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a diagram illustrating the overview of the accounting system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 11] This figure illustrates the functional configuration of an accounting device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 12] This figure illustrates the usage environment of the reader according to the third embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0016] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In all drawings, similar components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0017] (First embodiment) Figure 1 is a diagram showing an overview of the reading device 10 according to the first embodiment. The reading device 10 according to this embodiment comprises a product reading unit 101, an imaging unit 150, an identification unit 250, and a control unit 230. The product reading unit 101 is installed in a passageway through which a person intending to purchase a product passes, and reads product information from a wireless communication tag attached to the product. The imaging unit 150 captures an image that includes at least one of the reading area of ​​the product reading unit 101 and the area surrounding the reading area. The identification unit 250 uses the reading result of the product reading unit 101 to identify the product held by the person passing through the passageway. The control unit 230 controls at least one of the reading conditions of the product reading unit 101 and the identification unit 250 based on the results of processing the image.

[0018] This reading device 10 can smoothly and accurately identify the goods being carried by a person passing through a designated passage.

[0019] Figure 2 shows an overview of the information processing device 20 according to this embodiment. The information processing device 20 according to this embodiment comprises a first acquisition unit 210, a second acquisition unit 220, a identification unit 250, and a control unit 230. The first acquisition unit 210 acquires the reading results read by the product reading unit 101. The product reading unit 101 is installed in a passageway through which a person intending to purchase a product passes, and reads product information from a wireless communication tag attached to the product. The second acquisition unit 220 acquires an image including at least one of the reading area of ​​the product reading unit 101 and the area surrounding the reading area. The identification unit 250 uses the reading results of the product reading unit 101 to identify the product held by the person passing through the passageway. The control unit 230 controls at least one of the reading conditions of the product reading unit 101 and the identification unit 250 based on the results of processing the image.

[0020] According to this information processing device 20, the goods carried by a person passing through a designated passage can be identified smoothly and with high accuracy.

[0021] The following describes detailed examples of the reading device 10 and the information processing device 20.

[0022] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the reading device 10 according to this embodiment. In the example in Figure 3, the reading device 10 comprises a product reading unit 101, an imaging unit 150, and an information processing device 20. The information processing device 20 comprises a first acquisition unit 210, a second acquisition unit 220, a control unit 230, a specific unit 250, and a recognition unit 240.

[0023] Figures 4 and 5 illustrate the usage environment of the reading device 10 according to this embodiment. Figure 4 shows a side view of the passage 92 through which a person 90 intending to purchase a product passes. Figure 5 shows a top view of the passage 92 through which a person 90 intending to purchase a product passes. In the examples of Figures 4 and 5, the person 90 passes through the passage 92 along the arrow.

[0024] In stores selling products, each product is fitted with a wireless communication tag that stores product information. This product information includes, for example, identification information to identify the product. The wireless communication tag is, for example, an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag.

[0025] Person 90 passes through a designated passage 92 with the goods they wish to purchase. In this embodiment, the passage 92 is defined based on at least one enclosure 100. Specifically, at least part or all of the passage 92 is sandwiched between two enclosures 100. However, it is not necessarily required that two enclosures 100 be provided. For example, the passage 92 is defined to run along at least one enclosure 100. The enclosure 100 can constitute a walk-through gate. The enclosure 100 is provided, for example, near the exit of a store that sells goods.

[0026] The housing 100 is equipped with a product reading unit 101. The product reading unit 101 is equipped with an antenna 121 for communicating with a wireless communication tag. The product reading unit 101 is also equipped with a processing unit 131 for driving the antenna 121 and processing the received signal from the antenna 121. By communicating with the wireless communication tag located within the reading area 111, the product reading unit 101 can read the product information stored in the wireless communication tag. The product reading unit 101 outputs the read product information as a reading result to the first acquisition unit 210 of the information processing device 20.

[0027] The reading area 111 of the product reading unit 101 is defined relative to the housing 100. When viewed from above, part or all of the reading area 111 of the product reading unit 101 may be sandwiched between the two housings 100. Also, when viewed from above, part or all of the reading area 111 of the product reading unit 101 may not be sandwiched between the two housings 100.

[0028] In the examples shown in Figures 4 and 5, the product reading unit 101 is equipped with multiple antennas 121. One or more antennas 121 of the product reading unit 101 are provided on the side wall of the housing 100 on the passage 92 side. Antennas 121a, 121b, 121c, and 121d are provided as antennas 121 in each of the two housings 100.

[0029] Antennas 121b and 121c are provided on the side of the housing 100 facing the passage 92. Antenna 121b on one housing 100 and antenna 121b on the other housing 100 face each other across the passage 92. Antenna 121c on one housing 100 and antenna 121c on the other housing 100 face each other across the passage 92. Viewed from above, the entire reading area 111 of antennas 121b and 121c is sandwiched between the two housings 100.

[0030] Antenna 121a is located on the side of the housing 100 facing the entrance to the passage 92. Antenna 121d is located on the side of the housing 100 facing the exit to the passage 92. When viewed from above, the entire reading area 111 of antennas 121a and 121d is not sandwiched between the two housings 100.

[0031] The product reading unit 101 can output product information read by at least one of the multiple antennas 121 as the reading result of the product reading unit 101. Alternatively, the product reading unit 101 may output product information read at least temporarily by all of the multiple antennas 121 as the reading information of the product reading unit 101.

[0032] The reading conditions of the product reading unit 101 can be controlled by the control unit 230. The reading conditions of the product reading unit 101 are, for example, at least one of the output strength of the radio waves from the product reading unit 101, the output direction of the radio waves from the product reading unit 101, and a reading threshold for the received strength of the product reading unit 101.

[0033] If the product reading unit 101 is equipped with multiple antennas 121, the product reading unit 101 can simultaneously increase or decrease the output strength of all antennas 121. Furthermore, the output strength of radio waves from each antenna 121 can be controlled independently. In addition, the output direction of radio waves from the product reading unit 101 may be controlled, for example, by changing the orientation of at least one of the antennas 121 using an actuator or the like.

[0034] For example, by increasing the output strength of radio waves from some of the multiple antennas 121, the output strength of radio waves in a specific direction can be increased. Alternatively, by orienting at least one of the antennas 121 in a specific direction, the output strength of radio waves in a specific direction can be increased.

[0035] For example, the output strength of radio waves in a specific direction can be reduced by lowering the output strength of radio waves from some of the multiple antennas 121. Alternatively, the output strength of radio waves in a specific direction can be reduced by orienting at least one of the antennas 121 in a direction other than the specific direction.

[0036] The reading threshold for the received signal strength of the product reading unit 101 is, for example, a threshold for whether or not to recognize the received information as product information. For example, if the received signal strength of the radio waves from the wireless communication tag is equal to or greater than the reading threshold, the processing unit 131 reads the product information obtained by receiving those radio waves. On the other hand, if the received signal strength of the radio waves from the wireless communication tag is less than the reading threshold, the processing unit 131 does not read the product information obtained by receiving those radio waves.

[0037] The processing unit 131 of the product reading unit 101 controls one or more antennas 121 based on control signals from the control unit 230 of the information processing device 20. The control performed by the control unit 230 will be described in detail later.

[0038] The first acquisition unit 210 of the information processing device 20 acquires the reading result from the product reading unit 101 obtained when the person 90 passes through the passage 92. The identification unit 250 then identifies the product (hereinafter also referred to as the "target product") that the person 90 who passed through the passage 92 is carrying, based on the reading result acquired by the first acquisition unit 210. For example, the identification unit 250 identifies one or more product information items included in the reading result acquired by the first acquisition unit 210 as the product information of the product that the person 90 who passed through the passage 92 is carrying.

[0039] The identification unit 250 outputs product information for the target product. The identification unit 250 may output the product information for the target product to another device, or it may store it in a storage unit (not shown) accessible from the identification unit 250. The product information for the target product can be used for accounting processing, etc.

[0040] The imaging unit 150 captures an image that includes at least one of the reading area 111 of the product reading unit 101 and the area surrounding the reading area 111. The imaging unit 150 is, for example, a camera. The imaging unit 150 is installed, for example, on the ceiling of a store. The second acquisition unit 220 of the information processing device 20 acquires the image captured by the imaging unit 150 from the imaging unit 150. The image acquired by the second acquisition unit 220 may be a frame image that constitutes a video. That is, the imaging unit 150 may shoot a video, and the second acquisition unit 220 may acquire that video.

[0041] The recognition unit 240 recognizes the state of at least one of the surrounding area and the area within the passage 92 by processing an image. The recognition unit 240 can perform state recognition by processing an image using existing technology. For example, the recognition unit 240 may recognize the state of at least one of the surrounding area and the area within the passage 92 using a machine learning model.

[0042] The recognition unit 240 recognizes, for example, a person 90 passing through the passage 92 by analyzing the image obtained by the imaging unit 150. In other words, the recognition unit 240 can detect a person 90 passing through the passage 92. Based on the recognition result (detection result) of the recognition unit 240, the control unit 230 causes the product reading unit 101 to read product information from the wireless communication tag. That is, while a person 90 passing through the passage 92 is detected, the control unit 230 causes the product reading unit 101 to read product information from the wireless communication tag. Alternatively, the control unit 230 may cause the product reading unit 101 to read product information from the wireless communication tag based on the detection result of a human presence sensor (not shown) instead of the recognition result of the recognition unit 240. In that case, the human presence sensor is installed so as to be able to detect a person 90 located within the passage 92.

[0043] Furthermore, the control unit 230 controls at least one of the reading conditions of the product reading unit 101 and the identification unit 250 based on the recognition result of the recognition unit 240.

[0044] In this embodiment, an example is described in which the recognition unit 240 recognizes the state of the area around the passage 92 by processing an image. In this embodiment, an example is described in which the control unit 230 controls the reading conditions of the product reading unit 101 based on the recognition result of the recognition unit 240.

[0045] In this embodiment, the control unit 230 can control the reading conditions of the product reading unit 101 based on the recognition result of an image taken when the person 90 is in the passage 92. Alternatively, the control unit 230 may also control the reading conditions of the product reading unit 101 based on the recognition result of an image taken when the person 90 is not in the passage 92.

[0046] The recognition unit 240, for example, processes the image obtained by the imaging unit 150 to detect at least one of the furniture 95 located around the passageway 92 and a person 91 that has not passed through the passageway 92.

[0047] The following describes a first and second example of how the control unit 230 controls the reading conditions of the product reading unit 101.

[0048] <First example of control> The recognition unit 240 identifies the location of the fixture 95 located around the aisle 92 by processing the image. The control unit 230 reduces the output strength of the radio waves from the product reading unit 101, at least in the direction of the fixture 95.

[0049] Multiple items are displayed on the fixture 95. Since these items are not items that person 90 intends to purchase, it is preferable that they are not read by the product reading unit 101. Therefore, the control unit 230 controls the product reading unit 101 to reduce the output strength of the radio waves from the product reading unit 101 in the direction of the fixture 95. The control unit 230 may also control the product reading unit 101 so that it does not output radio waves in the direction of the fixture 95. In that case, the product reading unit 101 outputs radio waves only in other directions to perform readings.

[0050] For example, in the example shown in Figure 4, a fixture 95 is located near the exit of the aisle 92. The image captured by the imaging unit 150 includes the fixture 95. The recognition unit 240 then recognizes the presence and location of the fixture 95 in the image. The recognition unit 240 outputs information indicating the location of the fixture 95. Here, a storage unit accessible from the recognition unit 240 pre-stores positional relationship information that shows the relationship between the position in the image and the actual position within the store (for example, a position relative to the enclosure 100). The recognition unit 240 can then use the positional relationship information to convert the information indicating the position in the image into information indicating the position within the store and output it.

[0051] When the control unit 230 obtains information indicating the position of the fixture 95 from the recognition unit 240, it controls the output of the radio waves from the product reading unit 101 based on the information indicating the position of the fixture 95. Specifically, when the product reading unit 101 performs a reading, the control unit 230 lowers the output strength of the radio waves in the direction of the fixture 95 compared to the output strength of the radio waves in other directions. In the example shown in Figures 4 and 5, for example, the control unit 230 lowers the output strength of the radio waves from the antenna 121d that emits radio waves toward the fixture 95 compared to the output strength of the radio waves from other antennas 121. This makes it more difficult to read the product information of the products displayed on the fixture 95.

[0052] Furthermore, if there are fixtures 95 around the aisle 92, it can be said that the reading results are likely to contain product information that will be considered noise. In that case, the control unit 230 may reduce the output of radio waves in all directions, or it may increase the reading threshold as described above.

[0053] <Second example of control> The recognition unit 240 detects a person 91 that has not passed through the passage 92 by processing the image. When a person 91 that has not passed through the passage 92 is detected, the control unit 230 reduces the output strength of the radio waves from the product reading unit 101, at least in the direction of that person 91.

[0054] Person 91 could be, for example, a person who is about to pass through aisle 92. Or, person 91 could be a person passing near aisle 92. Such person 91 may also be carrying goods. However, since the goods carried by person 91 are not the goods that person 90 intends to purchase, it is preferable that they are not read by the product reading unit 101. Therefore, the control unit 230 controls the product reading unit 101 to reduce the output strength of the radio waves from the product reading unit 101 in the direction of person 91. The control unit 230 may also control the product reading unit 101 so that it does not output radio waves in the direction of person 91. In that case, the product reading unit 101 outputs radio waves only in other directions to perform the reading.

[0055] For example, in the example shown in Figure 4, a person 91 is located near the entrance to the passageway 92. The image captured by the imaging unit 150 includes the person 91. The recognition unit 240 then recognizes the presence and position of the person 91 in the image. It can be determined, for example, that the person 91 has not passed through the passageway 92 or is not attempting to pass through the passageway 92, based on the person 91's position, posture, face orientation, and movement.

[0056] The recognition unit 240 outputs information indicating the location of person 91. Similar to the first example, the recognition unit 240 can use the positional relationship information to convert the information indicating the location within the image into information indicating the location within the store and output it.

[0057] When the control unit 230 obtains information indicating the location of person 91 from the recognition unit 240, it controls the output of radio waves from the product reading unit 101 based on the information indicating the location of person 91. Specifically, when the product reading unit 101 performs a reading, the control unit 230 lowers the output strength of radio waves in the direction of person 91 than the output strength of radio waves in other directions. In the example shown in Figures 4 and 5, for example, the control unit 230 lowers the output strength of radio waves from antenna 121a that emits radio waves toward person 91 than the output strength from other antennas 121. This makes it more difficult to read the product information of the product held by person 91.

[0058] Furthermore, if there is a person 91 near the passage 92, it can be said that the environment is such that product information that becomes noise is likely to be included in the reading results. In that case, the control unit 230 may reduce the output of radio waves in all directions, or it may raise the reading threshold as described above.

[0059] The first and second examples of how the control unit 230 controls the reading conditions of the product reading unit 101 have been described above. However, the method by which the control unit 230 controls the reading conditions of the product reading unit 101 is not limited to these examples.

[0060] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating an overview of the reading method according to this embodiment. The reading method according to this embodiment includes steps S11, S12, S13, and S14. Step S13 is the step of reading product information from a wireless communication tag attached to a product using a product reading unit 101 provided in a passage 92 through which a person 90 intending to purchase a product passes. Step S11 is the step of capturing an image including at least one of the reading area 111 of the product reading unit 101 and the area surrounding the reading area 111. Step S14 is the step of identifying the product held by the person 90 who has passed through the passage 92 using the reading result of the product reading unit 101. Step S12 is the step of controlling at least one of the reading conditions of the product reading unit 101 and the method for identifying the product held by the person 90 who has passed through the passage 92, based on the results of processing the image.

[0061] The hardware configuration of the information processing device 20 is described below. Each functional component of the information processing device 20 (first acquisition unit 210, second acquisition unit 220, control unit 230, recognition unit 240, and identification unit 250) may be implemented by hardware that realizes each functional component (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 information processing device 20 is implemented by a combination of hardware and software will be further described below.

[0062] Figure 7 illustrates a computer 1000 for implementing the information processing device 20. Computer 1000 is any computer. For example, computer 1000 could be an SoC (System on Chip), a Personal Computer (PC), a server machine, a tablet terminal, or a smartphone. Computer 1000 may be a dedicated computer designed to implement the information processing device 20, or it may be a general-purpose computer. Furthermore, the information processing device 20 may be implemented by a single computer 1000, or by a combination of multiple computers 1000.

[0063] Computer 1000 includes a bus 1020, a processor 1040, memory 1060, a storage device 1080, an input / output interface 1100, and a network interface 1120. Bus 1020 is a data transmission path for the processor 1040, memory 1060, storage device 1080, input / output interface 1100, and network interface 1120 to send and receive data to and from each other. However, the method of connecting the processor 1040 and the other components is not limited to bus connection. The processor 1040 is a variety of processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). Memory 1060 is a main memory device implemented using RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. Storage device 1080 is an auxiliary storage device implemented using a hard disk, SSD (Solid State Drive), memory card, or ROM (Read Only Memory), etc.

[0064] The input / output interface 1100 is an interface for connecting the computer 1000 with input / output devices. For example, input devices such as a keyboard and output devices such as a display are connected to the input / output interface 1100. The method by which the input / output interface 1100 connects to the input and output devices may be wireless or wired.

[0065] The network interface 1120 is an interface for connecting the computer 1000 to a network. This network is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network). The method by which the network interface 1120 connects to the network may be wireless or wired.

[0066] The information processing device 20 can communicate with the product reading unit 101 and the imaging unit 150 via the input / output interface 1100 or the network interface 1120.

[0067] The storage device 1080 stores program modules that realize each functional component of the information processing device 20. The processor 1040 reads these program modules into the memory 1060 and executes them to realize the functions corresponding to each program module.

[0068] The hardware configuration of the processing unit 131 is described below. The processing unit 131 of the product reading unit 101 may be implemented by hardware that implements the processing unit 131 (e.g., a hardwired electronic circuit), or by a combination of hardware and software (e.g., a combination of an electronic circuit and a program that controls it).

[0069] The hardware configuration of the computer implementing the processing unit 131 is similar to that of the information processing unit 20, as shown in Figure 7, for example. However, the storage device 1080 of the computer 1000 implementing the processing unit 131 stores program modules that implement the functions of the processing unit 131. The processing unit 131 can communicate with the information processing unit 20 via the input / output interface 1100 or network interface 1120 of the computer 1000 implementing the processing unit 131.

[0070] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating an overview of the information processing method according to this embodiment. The information processing method according to this embodiment includes steps S21, S22, S23, and S24. In step S23, one or more computers acquire the reading results read by the product reading unit 101. The product reading unit 101 is installed in a passage 92 through which a person 90 intending to purchase a product passes, and reads product information from a wireless communication tag attached to the product. In step S21, one or more computers acquire an image including at least one of the reading area 111 of the product reading unit 101 and the area surrounding the reading area 111. In step S24, one or more computers use the reading results of the product reading unit 101 to identify the product held by the person 90 who passed through the passage 92. In step S22, one or more computers control at least one of the reading conditions of the product reading unit 101 and the method for identifying the product held by the person 90 who passed through the passage 92, based on the results of processing the image.

[0071] As described above, according to this embodiment, the control unit 230 controls at least one of the reading conditions of the product reading unit 101 and the identification unit 250 based on the results of image processing. Therefore, the products held by a person 90 who has passed through a predetermined passage 92 can be identified smoothly with high accuracy.

[0072] (modified version) The reading device 10 according to this modified example is the same as the reading device 10 according to the first embodiment, except for the points described below.

[0073] In this modified example, we describe an example in which the recognition unit 240 recognizes the state within the passage 92 by processing an image. In this embodiment, we also describe an example in which the control unit 230 controls the reading conditions of the product reading unit 101 based on the recognition result of the recognition unit 240.

[0074] In this embodiment, it is preferable that the control unit 230 controls the reading conditions of the product reading unit 101 based on the recognition result of the image taken when the person 90 is inside the passage 92. In particular, it is preferable that the control unit 230 controls the reading conditions of the product reading unit 101 based on the recognition result of the image taken when the person 90 is near the entrance of the passage 92.

[0075] The processing of the recognition unit 240 and the control unit 230, as illustrated below, may be performed independently or in combination with the processing described in the first embodiment. That is, in addition to controlling the reading conditions using the results of recognizing the state around the passage 92, as described in the first embodiment, the control unit 230 according to this embodiment may further control the reading conditions using the results of recognizing the state inside the passage 92.

[0076] The following describes a third and fourth example of how the control unit 230 controls the reading conditions of the product reading unit 101.

[0077] <Third example of control> The recognition unit 240 processes the image to estimate the quantity of goods carried by the person 90 passing through the passage 92. The control unit 230 controls the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading unit 101 based on the estimated quantity of goods.

[0078] If person 90 is carrying a large quantity of goods, it becomes difficult to read the product information due to overlapping of the goods. Therefore, the control unit 230 increases the output strength of the radio waves from the product reading unit 101 as the quantity of goods carried by person 90 increases.

[0079] For example, in the example shown in Figure 4, person 90 passes through aisle 92 with goods in basket 900. The image captured by the imaging unit 150 includes basket 900 and the goods inside basket 900. The recognition unit 240 recognizes basket 900 in the image obtained by the imaging unit 150 and further estimates the amount of goods inside basket 900. The recognition unit 240 outputs information indicating the estimated amount of goods. The amount of goods estimated by the recognition unit 240 is, for example, the volume of the goods. The recognition unit 240 may also output an index or level indicating the amount of goods as information indicating the amount of goods.

[0080] However, person 90 may carry the goods directly in their hands instead of using the basket 900. In that case, the recognition unit 240 estimates the amount of goods that person 90 is carrying. Alternatively, person 90 may pass through the aisle 92 with the goods in a shopping bag. In that case, the recognition unit 240 estimates the amount of goods in the shopping bag. The amount of goods in the shopping bag can be estimated, for example, based on the size of the shopping bag and how much it is bulging.

[0081] When the control unit 230 obtains information indicating the quantity of goods from the recognition unit 240, it controls the output of the radio waves from the goods reading unit 101 based on the quantity of goods indicated by that information. Specifically, the more goods there are, the higher the output strength of the radio waves when the goods reading unit 101 performs the reading. In the examples in Figures 4 and 5, for example, the control unit 230 increases the output strength of all antennas from antenna 121a to antenna 121d as the quantity of goods increases.

[0082] For example, a memory unit accessible from the control unit 230 pre-stores first reference information (a table or formula, etc.) that shows the relationship between the quantity of goods and the output strength of radio waves. The control unit 230 uses the first reference information and the quantity of goods estimated by the recognition unit 240 to determine the output strength. The control unit 230 then controls the product reading unit 101 to output radio waves at the determined output strength.

[0083] In the fourth to sixth examples described below, the recognition unit 240 estimates the state of the person 90 passing through the passage 92 by processing the image. Then, the control unit 230 controls the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading unit 101 based on the estimated state of the person 90.

[0084] <Fourth example of control> The recognition unit 240 estimates the state of the person 90 passing through the passage 92, specifically how the person 90 is holding the product. The control unit 230 controls the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading unit 101 based on how the person 90 is holding the product.

[0085] The readability of product information varies depending on how person 90 holds the product. For example, when person 90 holds the product directly in their hand (hereinafter also referred to as the "first method"), the product information is difficult to read due to the reflection of radio waves by person 90. When person 90 holds the product in a shopping bag (hereinafter also referred to as the "second method"), the high density of the product makes it difficult to read the product information. On the other hand, when person 90 holds the product in a basket 900 (hereinafter also referred to as the "third method"), the product information is relatively easy to read. Therefore, the control unit 230 increases the output strength of the radio waves from the product reading unit 101 when person 90 is holding the product in the first or second method compared to when person 90 is holding it in the third method.

[0086] The image captured by the imaging unit 150 includes a person 90 passing through the passage 92. The recognition unit 240 recognizes the person 90 in the image obtained by the imaging unit 150 and further identifies (estimates) how the person 90 is holding the product. For example, the recognition unit 240 identifies whether the person 90 is holding the product using one of the first method, second method, or third method described above. The recognition unit 240 then outputs information indicating the identified method. The information output by the recognition unit 240 may indicate one of the first method, second method, or third method.

[0087] When the control unit 230 obtains information from the recognition unit 240 indicating how person 90 is holding the product, it controls the output strength of the radio waves from the product reading unit 101 when the product reading unit 101 performs the reading, based on the method indicated by that information. For example, a storage unit accessible from the control unit 230 pre-stores second reference information (such as a table) that shows the relationship between how person 90 is holding the product (for example, a first method, a second method, and a third method) and the output strength of the radio waves. The control unit 230 determines the output strength using the second reference information and the method by which person 90 is holding the product identified by the recognition unit 240. When the product reading unit 101 performs the reading, the control unit 230 causes the product reading unit 101 to output radio waves at the determined output strength.

[0088] <Fifth example of control> The recognition unit 240 estimates the speed at which the person 90 is moving as a state of the person 90 passing through the passage 92. The control unit 230 controls the output strength of the radio waves from the product reading unit 101 based on the speed of the person 90.

[0089] The readability of product information varies depending on the speed of person 90. The faster person 90 passes through the aisle 92, the more difficult it is to read the product information they are carrying. This is because the time available for reading is shorter. Therefore, the control unit 230 increases the output strength of the radio waves from the product reading unit 101 as the speed of person 90 increases.

[0090] The images captured by the camera unit 150 include a person 90 passing through the passageway 92. In this example, the camera unit 150 captures multiple images while the person 90 moves along the passageway 92. The camera unit 150 may also capture a video of the person 90. The recognition unit 240 recognizes the person 90 in the images obtained by the camera unit 150 and uses the recognition results from the multiple images to determine the speed of the person 90. The recognition unit 240 then outputs information indicating the determined speed.

[0091] When the control unit 230 obtains information indicating the speed of person 90 from the recognition unit 240, it controls the output of the radio waves from the product reading unit 101 based on the speed indicated by that information. For example, a storage unit accessible from the control unit 230 pre-stores third reference information (a table or formula, etc.) that shows the relationship between the speed of person 90 and the output strength of the radio waves. The control unit 230 uses the third reference information and the speed of person 90 identified by the recognition unit 240 to determine the output strength. When the product reading unit 101 performs a read, the control unit 230 causes the product reading unit 101 to output radio waves at the determined output strength.

[0092] <Sixth example of control> The recognition unit 240 estimates the state of a person 90 passing through the passage 92, specifically which side the person 90 is holding the product on. The control unit 230 controls the output strength of the radio waves from the product reading unit 101 based on which side the person 90 is holding the product on.

[0093] As shown in Figure 5, when antennas 121 are provided on both sides of the aisle 92, the antenna 121 that is best suited for reading product information differs depending on which side the person 90 is holding the product on. For example, if person 90 is holding the product in their right hand, the product information is best read using the antenna 121 on the right side of person 90. On the other hand, if person 90 is holding the product in their left hand, the product information is best read using the antenna 121 on the left side of person 90. Therefore, if person 90 is holding the product in their right hand, the control unit 230 increases the output strength of the radio waves from the antenna 121 located on the right side of the aisle 92 in the direction of travel. If person 90 is holding the product in their left hand, the control unit 230 increases the output strength of the radio waves from the antenna 121 located on the left side of the aisle 92 in the direction of travel.

[0094] The image captured by the camera unit 150 includes a person 90 passing through the aisle 92. The recognition unit 240 recognizes the person 90 in the image obtained by the camera unit 150 and further identifies (estimates) which side the person 90 is holding the product on. Specifically, the recognition unit 240 identifies whether the person 90 is holding the product on their right or left side. Note that if the person 90 is holding the product on their right side, this includes cases where the person 90 is holding the basket 900 or shopping bag containing the product on their right side. If the person 90 is holding the product on their left side, this includes cases where the person 90 is holding the basket 900 or shopping bag containing the product on their left side. The recognition unit 240 then outputs information indicating which side the person 90 is holding the product on.

[0095] The control unit 230 obtains information from the recognition unit 240 indicating which side the person 90 is holding the product on. Based on whether the information obtained from the recognition unit 240 indicates "left side" or "right side", the control unit 230 controls the output strength of radio waves from the multiple antennas 121 when the product reading unit 101 performs the reading. For example, if the control unit 230 obtains information indicating "right side", it increases the output strength of radio waves from one or more antennas 121 located on the right side of the passage 92 to be higher than the output strength of radio waves from one or more antennas 121 located on the left side of the passage 92. For example, if the control unit 230 obtains information indicating "left side", it increases the output strength of radio waves from one or more antennas 121 located on the left side of the passage 92 to be higher than the output strength of radio waves from one or more antennas 121 located on the right side of the passage 92.

[0096] The third to sixth examples of how the control unit 230 controls the reading conditions of the product reading unit 101 have been described above. However, the method by which the control unit 230 controls the reading conditions of the product reading unit 101 is not limited to these examples.

[0097] Next, the operation and effects of this modified example will be described. In this modified example, the same operation and effects as in the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0098] (Second embodiment) The reading device 10 according to the second embodiment is the same as the reading device 10 according to at least one of the first embodiment and its modified form, except for the points described below.

[0099] In this embodiment, an example is described in which the control unit 230 controls the identification unit 250 based on the recognition result of the recognition unit 240. More specifically, the control unit 230 controls the process by which the identification unit 250 identifies the product information of the target product based on the recognition result of the recognition unit 240.

[0100] However, the processing of the recognition unit 240 and the control unit 230, as illustrated below, may be performed independently or in combination with the processing described in at least one of the first embodiment and its variations.

[0101] The recognition unit 240 detects a person 91 who has not passed through the passage 92 by processing the image. The recognition unit 240 estimates the attributes of the detected person 91. Then, the control unit 230 uses the estimated attributes to control the identification unit 250 to identify the goods that the person 90 who passed through the passage 92 is carrying.

[0102] Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the reading device 10 according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, the information processing device 20 further includes an attribute information storage unit 201. However, the attribute information storage unit 201 may be provided outside the information processing device 20 or outside the reading device 10. When the attribute information storage unit 201 is provided inside the information processing device 20, for example, the attribute information storage unit 201 is implemented using the storage device 1080 of the computer 1000 that implements the information processing device 20.

[0103] The attribute information storage unit 201 pre-stores multiple attribute information items, each associated with one or more pieces of product information. Here, attribute information includes, for example, gender, age group, height, weight, and one or more combinations of these. Each piece of attribute information is associated with product information of a product that a person with the attributes indicated by that attribute information is likely to purchase. The association between attribute information and one or more pieces of product information can be based on prior surveys, product characteristics, and sales performance. Note that the same piece of product information may be associated with multiple pieces of attribute information.

[0104] As described in the first embodiment, the recognition unit 240 according to this embodiment detects a person 90 passing through the passage 92 by analyzing the image obtained by the imaging unit 150. When the recognition unit 240 according to this embodiment detects a person 90 passing through the passage 92, it estimates the attributes of that person 90.

[0105] Furthermore, the recognition unit 240 according to this embodiment detects a person 91 who has not passed through the passage 92, similar to the second example of control described in the first embodiment. When the recognition unit 240 detects a person 91 who has not passed through the passage 92, it estimates the attributes of that person 91. If the recognition unit 240 detects a person 91 who has not passed through the passage 92, the control unit 230 causes the identification unit 250 to identify the target product based on the attributes of the person 91. For example, the control unit 230 causes the identification unit 250 to identify the target product as follows.

[0106] The identification unit 250 identifies one or more product information associated with attribute information corresponding to the attributes of person 91 in the attribute information storage unit 201 as the "first product information group". The identification unit 250 also identifies one or more product information associated with attribute information corresponding to the attributes of person 90 in the attribute information storage unit 201 as the "second product information group".

[0107] Similar to the first embodiment, the first acquisition unit 210 of the information processing device 20 acquires the reading result from the product reading unit 101 obtained when the person 90 passes through the passage 92.

[0108] The identification unit 250 identifies the target product using the reading results from the product reading unit 101, the first product information group, and the second product information group. Specifically, the identification unit 250 identifies product information that is included in the first product information group but not in the second product information group, from among the one or more product information included in the reading results acquired by the first acquisition unit 210. Then, the identification unit 250 identifies one or more product information for the target product by removing the identified product information from the one or more product information included in the reading results.

[0109] In this way, the identification unit 250 excludes product information determined using the attribute information of person 91 from the reading results. By doing so, product information that is highly likely to be noise can be excluded from the reading results.

[0110] In this embodiment, it is preferable that the control unit 230 controls the identification unit 250 based on the recognition result of the image taken at the time when the person 90 is inside the passage 92.

[0111] Next, the operation and effects of this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the same operation and effects as in the first embodiment can be obtained. In addition, according to this embodiment, the control unit 230 controls the identification unit 250 to identify the goods possessed by person 90 who has passed through the passage 92, using the estimated attributes of person 91 who has not passed through the passage 92. Therefore, the goods possessed by person 90 who has passed through the passage 92 can be identified with greater accuracy.

[0112] (Third embodiment) Figure 10 is a diagram showing an overview of the accounting system 40 according to the third embodiment. The accounting system 40 according to this embodiment comprises a reader 10 and an accounting device 30. The accounting device 30 performs accounting processing for target goods. The target goods are goods identified by the identification unit 250 of the reader 10 as goods possessed by a person 90 who has passed through the passage 92. The reader 10 is the same as the reader 10 according to at least one of the first embodiment, the second embodiment, and the modified example.

[0113] Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the accounting device 30 according to this embodiment. In the example shown in Figure 11, the accounting device 30 includes an acquisition unit 320, a calculation unit 340, a processing unit 360, a product information storage unit 301, and a customer information storage unit 302. However, the product information storage unit 301 and the customer information storage unit 302 may each be provided outside the accounting device 30.

[0114] The product information storage unit 301 already stores product information and product prices in a manner that is linked to each other. The acquisition unit 320 of the accounting device 30 acquires product information for one or more target products identified by the identification unit 250 of the reading device 10. The calculation unit 340 calculates the total price of all products possessed by each person 90 who passes through the aisle 92. Specifically, the calculation unit 340 identifies the price of each target product by accessing the product information storage unit 301 and calculates the amount that person 90 should pay based on the sum of the prices of all target products.

[0115] Then, the processing unit 360 performs accounting processing using the amount identified by the calculation unit 340 and the payment information of the person 90 identified in the manner described below.

[0116] Figure 12 illustrates the usage environment of the reading device 10 according to this embodiment. Figure 12 shows a side view of a passage 92 through which a person 90 intending to purchase goods passes. The reading device 10 according to this embodiment is provided with a reading unit 160. The reading unit 160 reads information to identify the person 90, or payment information for the person 90 to make a payment. The reading unit 160 and the accounting device 30 are communicated with each other. An example of a method for identifying the payment information of person 90 will be described below.

[0117] <Example 1 of identifying payment information> One example of the reading unit 160 is that it images person 90. The reading unit 160 images, for example, person 90's face, fingerprints, or iris. In other words, by imaging person 90, the reading unit 160 obtains information to identify person 90. Then, by performing authentication using the information to identify person 90, the accounting device 30 can identify who person 90 is. In this example, the imaging unit 150 may also function as the reading unit 160.

[0118] The position of the reading unit 160 relative to the housing 100 and the passage 92 is not particularly limited. However, it is preferable that the reading unit 160 captures images of a person 90 passing through the passage 92, a person 90 immediately before passing through, or a person 90 immediately after passing through. By doing so, one or more target products identified by the identification unit 250 and the information read by the reading unit 160 are associated with each other.

[0119] Person 90 registers in advance information necessary for authentication, such as their facial photograph, and payment information to be used for payment (e.g., credit card information). The registered information is stored in the customer information storage unit 302, associated with, for example, the identification information of person 90 (e.g., member ID). When the acquisition unit 320 of the accounting device 30 obtains information to identify person 90 from the reading unit 160, it compares it with the authentication information stored in the customer information storage unit 302 to identify the identification information and payment information of person 90 who passed through the passage 92.

[0120] In this example, person 90 can pay for the goods they are carrying simply by passing through the aisle 92 without stopping.

[0121] <Second example of identifying payment information> An example of the reading unit 160 is a reader that reads the member ID of person 90. For example, the reading unit 160 is an IC reader, barcode reader, or two-dimensional code reader that reads the member ID from the membership card held by person 90. The membership card has an IC chip or wireless communication tag that stores the member ID. Alternatively, the membership card has a barcode or two-dimensional code printed on it that indicates the member ID. The position of the reading unit 160 relative to the housing 100 and the passage 92 is not particularly limited, but the reading unit 160 is installed, for example, at the entrance, exit, or in the middle of the passage 92. Person 90 causes the reading unit 160 to read the member ID by holding the membership card over the reading unit 160 before, after, or while passing through the passage 92.

[0122] Person 90 registers their payment information (for example, credit card information) in advance. The registered payment information is stored in the customer information storage unit 302, for example, associated with person 90's member ID. When the acquisition unit 320 of the accounting device 30 obtains person 90's member ID from the reading unit 160, it accesses the customer information storage unit 302 and identifies the payment information associated with that member ID as the payment information of person 90 who passed through passage 92.

[0123] <Third example of identifying payment information> One example of the reading unit 160 is a reader that reads payment information of person 90. For example, the reading unit 160 is a reader that reads payment information from a portable terminal or card carried by person 90. By having the reading unit 160 read the payment information from the portable terminal or card, person 90 can make an electronic payment on the spot using electronic money or a credit card. In this example, the customer information storage unit 302 does not necessarily have to be provided.

[0124] In this example, the reading unit 160 is located near the exit of the passage 92. The reading unit 160 is also located at a position reached after the person 90 has passed through the reading area 111 of the product reading unit 101 of the reading device 10.

[0125] When the acquisition unit 320 of the accounting device 30 acquires payment information from the reading unit 160, it identifies that information as payment information of person 90 who passed through the passage 92.

[0126] The hardware configuration of the computer that implements each functional component of the accounting device 30 (acquisition unit 320, calculation unit 340, and processing unit 360) is shown, for example, in Figure 7, similar to the information processing device 20. However, the storage device 1080 of the computer 1000 that implements the accounting device 30 according to this embodiment stores program modules that implement the functions of each functional component of the accounting device 30 according to this embodiment.

[0127] Furthermore, if the product information storage unit 301 and the customer information storage unit 302 are each located inside the accounting device 30, for example, the product information storage unit 301 and the customer information storage unit 302 are each implemented using a storage device 1080.

[0128] The accounting device 30 can communicate with the reading unit 160 and the information processing device 20 via the input / output interface 1100 or network interface 1120 of the computer 1000 that implements the accounting device 30. The information processing device 20 of the reading device 10 can communicate with the accounting device 30 via the input / output interface 1100 or network interface 1120 of the computer 1000 that implements the information processing device 20.

[0129] In the accounting method according to this embodiment, one or more computers perform accounting processing for the target goods. The target goods are those identified by the identification unit 250 provided in the reading device 10 as goods possessed by a person 90 who passed through the passage 92.

[0130] Next, the operation and effects of this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the same operation and effects as in the first embodiment can be obtained. In addition, according to this embodiment, the accounting device 30 performs accounting processing for the target product that the identification unit 250 of the reading device 10 has identified as being held by the person 90 who has passed through the passage 92. Therefore, by passing through the passage 92, the person 90 can have the product they are holding identified and accounting processing can be performed smoothly.

[0131] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings, but these are merely examples of the present invention, and various other configurations can also be adopted.

[0132] Furthermore, while the flowcharts used in the above description show multiple steps (processes) in sequence, the execution order of the steps performed in each embodiment is not limited to the order in which they are described. In each embodiment, the order of the illustrated steps can be changed to the extent that it does not impede the content. Also, the above embodiments can be combined to the extent that their contents do not conflict.

[0133] Some or all of the above embodiments may also be described as follows, but are not limited to the following: 1-1. A product reading device is installed in a passageway through which a person intending to purchase a product passes, and reads product information from a wireless communication tag attached to the product. A photographing means for capturing an image that includes at least one of the reading area of ​​the product reading means and the area surrounding the reading area, A means for identifying the goods possessed by a person who passed through the passage, using the reading results of the aforementioned goods reading means, Based on the results of processing the aforementioned image, a control means controls the reading conditions of the product reading means and at least one of the identifying means. Equipped with A reading device. 1-2. In the reading device described in 1-1, The reading conditions for the product reading means are at least one of the following: the output strength of the radio waves from the product reading means, the direction of the output of the radio waves from the product reading means, and a reading threshold for the received signal strength of the product reading means. A reading device. 1-3. In the reading device described in 1-1 or 1-2, The system further includes a recognition means for processing the aforementioned images to recognize the state of at least one of the surrounding area and the interior of the passage, The control means controls at least one of the reading conditions of the product reading means and the identification means based on the recognition result of the recognition means. A reading device. 1-4. In the reading device described in 1-3, The recognition means processes the image to detect at least one of the following: furniture located around the passageway and a person not passing through the passageway. A reading device. 1-5. In the reading device described in 1-4, The recognition means identifies the location of the fixtures located around the passage by processing the image, The control means reduces the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading means in at least one direction relative to the fixture. A reading device. 1-6. In the reading device described in 1-4, The aforementioned recognition means is By processing the aforementioned image, a person who has not passed through the passageway is detected. Estimate the attributes of the person detected, The control means controls the identification means to identify the goods carried by the person who passed through the passage, using the estimated attributes. A reading device. 1-7. In the reading device described in 1-4, The recognition means detects a person who has not passed through the passage by processing the image, If a person who has not passed through the aforementioned passage is detected, the control means reduces the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading means, at least in the direction of that person. A reading device. 1-8. In the reading device described in 1-3, The recognition means processes the image to estimate the quantity of goods carried by the person passing through the passage. The control means controls the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading means based on the estimated quantity of the product. A reading device. 1-9. In the reading device described in 1-3, The recognition means estimates the state of a person passing through the passage by processing the image. The control means controls the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading means based on the estimated state. A reading device. 2-1. A product reading means is installed in a passageway through which a person intending to purchase a product passes, and reads product information from a wireless communication tag attached to the product. The product reading means includes a first acquisition means that acquires the read result. A second acquisition means for acquiring an image that includes at least one of the reading area of ​​the product reading means and the area surrounding the reading area, A means for identifying the goods possessed by a person who passed through the passage, using the reading results of the aforementioned goods reading means, Based on the results of processing the aforementioned image, a control means controls the reading conditions of the product reading means and at least one of the identifying means. Equipped with Information processing device. 2-2. In the information processing device described in 2-1, The reading conditions for the product reading means are at least one of the following: the output strength of the radio waves from the product reading means, the direction of the output of the radio waves from the product reading means, and a reading threshold for the received signal strength of the product reading means. Information processing device. 2-3. In the information processing device described in 2-1 or 2-2, The system further includes a recognition means for processing the aforementioned images to recognize the state of at least one of the surrounding area and the interior of the passage, The control means controls at least one of the reading conditions of the product reading means and the identification means based on the recognition result of the recognition means. Information processing device. 2-4. In the information processing device described in 2-3, The recognition means processes the image to detect at least one of the following: furniture located around the passageway and a person not passing through the passageway. Information processing device. 2-5. In the information processing device described in 2-4, The recognition means identifies the location of the fixtures located around the passage by processing the image, The control means reduces the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading means in at least one direction relative to the fixture. Information processing device. 2-6. In the information processing device described in 2-4, The aforementioned recognition means is By processing the aforementioned image, a person who has not passed through the passageway is detected. Estimate the attributes of the person detected, The control means controls the identification means to identify the goods carried by the person who passed through the passage, using the estimated attributes. Information processing device. 2-7. In the information processing device described in 2-4, The recognition means detects a person who has not passed through the passage by processing the image, If a person who has not passed through the aforementioned passage is detected, the control means reduces the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading means, at least in the direction of that person. Information processing device. 2-8. In the information processing device described in 2-3, The recognition means processes the image to estimate the quantity of goods carried by the person passing through the passage. The control means controls the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading means based on the estimated quantity of the product. Information processing device. In the information processing device described in 2-9. 2-3., The recognition means estimates the state of a person passing through the passage by processing the image. The control means controls the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading means based on the estimated state. Information processing device. 3-1. A reading device described in any one of 1-1. to 1-9. The identification means includes an accounting device that performs accounting for the target goods identified as being in the possession of a person who passed through the passage. Accounting system. 4-1. A product reading device installed in a passageway through which a person intending to purchase a product passes reads product information from a wireless communication tag attached to the product, The process involves capturing an image that includes at least one of the reading area of ​​the product reading means and the area surrounding the reading area, Using the reading results of the aforementioned product reading means, the product possessed by the person who passed through the passage is identified. Based on the results of processing the aforementioned image, control at least one of the reading conditions of the product reading means and the method for identifying the product held by the person who passed through the passage. including How to read it. 4-2. In the reading method described in 4-1, The reading conditions for the product reading means are at least one of the following: the output strength of the radio waves from the product reading means, the direction of the output of the radio waves from the product reading means, and a reading threshold for the received signal strength of the product reading means. How to read it. 4-3. In the reading method described in 4-1. or 4-2., The process further includes processing the aforementioned images to recognize the state of at least one of the surrounding area and the interior of the passage, The aforementioned control includes controlling at least one of the reading conditions of the product reading means and the identification method based on the results of the recognition. How to read it. 4-4. In the reading method described in 4-3, The recognition described above includes processing the image to detect at least one of the following: furniture located around the passageway and a person not passing through the passageway. How to read it. 4-5. In the reading method described in 4-4, The recognition described above includes identifying the location of furniture located around the passage by processing the image, The aforementioned control includes at least reducing the output intensity of radio waves from the product reading means in a certain direction of the fixture. How to read it. 4-6. In the reading method described in 4-4, The aforementioned recognition means that By processing the aforementioned image, it is possible to detect a person who has not passed through the aforementioned passage, This includes estimating the attributes of the person who was detected. The aforementioned control includes controlling the identification method to identify the goods carried by a person who has passed through the passage using the estimated attributes. How to read it. 4-7. In the reading method described in 4-4, The aforementioned recognition includes detecting a person who has not passed through the passage by processing the image, The aforementioned control includes, if a person who is not passing through the passage is detected, reducing the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading means at least in the direction of that person. How to read it. 4-8. In the reading method described in 4-3, The recognition described above includes estimating the quantity of goods carried by a person passing through the passage by processing the image, The aforementioned control includes controlling the output intensity of radio waves from the product reading means based on the estimated quantity of the product. How to read it. 4-9. In the reading method described in 4-3, The aforementioned recognition includes estimating the state of a person passing through the passage by processing the image, The aforementioned control includes controlling the output intensity of radio waves from the product reading means based on the estimated state. How to read it. 5-1. One or more computers, It is installed in the passageway through which people intending to purchase products pass, and a product reading device reads product information from wireless communication tags attached to the products, and acquires the read results. An image is acquired that includes at least one of the reading area of ​​the product reading means and the area surrounding the reading area. Using the reading results of the aforementioned product reading means, the product possessed by the person who passed through the passage is identified. Based on the results of processing the aforementioned images, control at least one of the reading conditions of the product reading means and the method for identifying the product held by the person who passed through the passage. Information processing methods. 5-2. In the information processing method described in 5-1, The reading conditions for the product reading means are at least one of the following: the output strength of the radio waves from the product reading means, the direction of the output of the radio waves from the product reading means, and a reading threshold for the received signal strength of the product reading means. Information processing methods. 5-3. In the information processing method described in 5-1 or 5-2, The one or more computers further process the image to recognize the state of at least one of the surrounding area and the inside of the passage, The one or more computers control at least one of the reading conditions of the product reading means and the identification method based on the recognition result of the recognition means. Information processing methods. 5-4. In the information processing method described in 5-3, The one or more computers, by processing the image, detect at least one of the following: furniture located around the passageway and people not passing through the passageway. Information processing methods. 5-5. In the information processing method described in 5-4, The one or more computers mentioned above By processing the aforementioned images, the positions of the fixtures located around the passageway are identified. At the very least, reduce the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading means in the direction of the fixture. Information processing methods. 5-6. In the information processing method described in 5-4, The one or more computers mentioned above By processing the aforementioned image, a person who has not passed through the passageway is detected. Estimate the attributes of the person detected, The identification method is controlled to identify the goods carried by the person who passed through the passage using the estimated attribute. Information processing methods. 5-7. In the information processing method described in 5-4, The one or more computers mentioned above By processing the aforementioned image, a person who has not passed through the passageway is detected. If a person who has not passed through the aforementioned passage is detected, the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading means will be reduced, at least in the direction of that person. Information processing methods. 5-8. In the information processing method described in 5-3, The one or more computers mentioned above By processing the aforementioned images, the quantity of goods carried by the person passing through the passage is estimated. Based on the estimated quantity of the product, the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading means is controlled. Information processing methods. 5-9. In the information processing method described in 5-3, The one or more computers mentioned above By processing the aforementioned images, the state of the person passing through the passage is estimated. Based on the estimated state, the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading means is controlled. Information processing methods. 6-1. One or more computers, The identification means provided in any one of the reading devices described in 1-1 to 1-9 performs accounting processing for the target goods identified as being in the possession of a person who has passed through the passage. Accounting method. 7-1. Computers, A product reading means is installed in a passageway through which a person intending to purchase a product passes, and reads product information from a wireless communication tag attached to the product, and a first acquisition means acquires the read result. A second acquisition means for acquiring an image that includes at least one of the reading area of ​​the product reading means and the area surrounding the reading area. A means for identifying the goods possessed by a person who passed through the passage, using the reading results of the aforementioned goods reading means, and A control means that controls the reading conditions of the product reading means and at least one of the identification means based on the results of processing the aforementioned image. To make it function as program. 7-2. In the program described in 7-1, The reading conditions for the product reading means are at least one of the following: the output strength of the radio waves from the product reading means, the direction of the output of the radio waves from the product reading means, and a reading threshold for the received signal strength of the product reading means. program. 7-3. In the program described in 7-1 or 7-2, The computer is further made to function as a recognition means for recognizing the state of at least one of the surrounding area and the inside of the passage by processing the image. The control means controls at least one of the reading conditions of the product reading means and the identification means based on the recognition result of the recognition means. program. In the program described in 7-4.7-3., The recognition means processes the image to detect at least one of the following: furniture located around the passageway and a person not passing through the passageway. program. In the program described in 7-5. 7-4., The recognition means identifies the location of the fixtures located around the passage by processing the image, The control means reduces the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading means in at least one direction relative to the fixture. program. In the program described in 7-6. 7-4., The aforementioned recognition means is By processing the aforementioned image, a person who has not passed through the passageway is detected. Estimate the attributes of the person detected, The control means controls the identification means to identify the goods carried by the person who passed through the passage, using the estimated attributes. program. In the program described in 7-7.7-4., The recognition means detects a person who has not passed through the passage by processing the image, If a person who has not passed through the aforementioned passage is detected, the control means reduces the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading means, at least in the direction of that person. program. 7-8. In the program described in 7-3, The recognition means processes the image to estimate the quantity of goods carried by the person passing through the passage. The control means controls the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading means based on the estimated quantity of the product. program. In the program described in 7-9.7-3., The recognition means estimates the state of a person passing through the passage by processing the image. The control means controls the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading means based on the estimated state. program. 8-1. A computer-readable recording medium containing a program described in any one of the items listed in 7-1 through 7-9. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0134] 10. Reader 20 Information Processing Devices 30 Accounting device 40 Accounting Systems 95 fixtures 100 cabinets 101 Product reading unit 111 Reading Area 121 Antenna 131 Processing Unit 150 Photography Department 160 Reading Unit 201 Attribute information storage unit 210 First acquisition part 220 Second Acquisition Department 230 Control Unit 240 Recognition part 250 Specific section 301 Product information storage section 302 Customer information storage unit 320 Acquisition Department 340 Calculation Unit 360 Processing Unit 1000 calculator

Claims

1. It is installed in a passageway through which people intending to purchase goods pass, and includes a product reading device that reads product information from wireless communication tags attached to the products, A photographing means for capturing an image that includes at least one of the reading area of ​​the product reading means and the area surrounding the reading area, A means for identifying the goods possessed by a person who passed through the passage, using the reading results of the aforementioned goods reading means, Based on the results of processing the aforementioned image, a control means controls the reading conditions of the product reading means. Equipped with A reading device.

2. In the reading device according to claim 1, The system further includes a recognition means for processing the aforementioned images to recognize the state of at least one of the surrounding area and the interior of the passage, The control means controls the reading conditions of the product reading means based on the recognition result of the recognition means. A reading device.

3. In the reading device according to claim 2, The recognition means processes the image to detect at least one of the following: furniture located around the passageway and a person not passing through the passageway. A reading device.

4. In the reading device according to claim 2, The recognition means processes the image to estimate the quantity of goods carried by the person passing through the passage. The control means controls the output intensity of the radio waves from the product reading means based on the estimated quantity of the product. A reading device.

5. A product reading means is installed in a passageway through which a person intending to purchase a product passes, and reads product information from a wireless communication tag attached to the product. The product reading means includes a first acquisition means that acquires the read result. A second acquisition means for acquiring an image that includes at least one of the reading area of ​​the product reading means and the area surrounding the reading area, A means for identifying the goods possessed by a person who passed through the passage, using the reading results of the aforementioned goods reading means, Based on the results of processing the aforementioned image, a control means controls the reading conditions of the product reading means. Equipped with Information processing device.

6. A reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The identification means includes an accounting device that performs accounting for the target goods identified as being in the possession of a person who passed through the passage. Accounting system.

7. This involves using a product reading device installed in a passageway through which a person intending to purchase a product passes, to read product information from a wireless communication tag attached to the product, and The process involves capturing an image that includes at least one of the reading area of ​​the product reading means and the area surrounding the reading area, Using the reading results of the aforementioned product reading means, the product possessed by the person who passed through the passage is identified. Based on the results of processing the aforementioned image, the reading conditions of the product reading means are controlled. including How to read it.

8. One or more computers It is installed in the passageway through which people intending to purchase products pass, and a product reading device reads product information from wireless communication tags attached to the products, and acquires the read results. An image is acquired that includes at least one of the reading area of ​​the product reading means and the area surrounding the reading area. Using the reading results of the aforementioned product reading means, the product possessed by the person who passed through the passage is identified. Based on the results of processing the aforementioned image, the reading conditions of the product reading means are controlled. Information processing methods.

9. One or more computers The identifying means provided in the reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 performs accounting processing for the target goods identified as being in the possession of a person who has passed through the passage. Accounting method.

10. Computers, A product reading means is installed in a passageway through which a person intending to purchase a product passes, and reads product information from a wireless communication tag attached to the product, and a first acquisition means acquires the read result. A second acquisition means for acquiring an image that includes at least one of the reading area of ​​the product reading means and the area surrounding the reading area. A means for identifying the goods possessed by a person who passed through the passage, using the reading results of the aforementioned goods reading means, and Control means for controlling the reading conditions of the product reading means based on the results of processing the aforementioned image. To make it function as program.

Images