Notification device, notification method, and program

Abstract

A notification device according to the present disclosure comprises a reference value acquisition unit, a notification unit, and a threshold value setting unit. The reference value acquisition unit acquires a reference value indicating at least one of the sufficiency rate of products of interest on a display shelf and the cumulative number of products of interest sold from a timing when shop stocking was performed. When the relationship between the reference value and a threshold value satisfies a notification condition, the notification unit issues notification regarding a request for shop stocking. The threshold value setting unit sets the threshold value on the basis of at least one of a reference value at the time of a past shop stocking request for which the sufficiency rate did not fall below a lower-limit value before shop stocking was performed after the shop stocking request, and a reference value at the time of past shop stocking performed in a state in which the sufficiency rate did not fall below the lower-limit value.

Description

Notification device, notification method, and recording medium

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a notification device, a notification method, and a recording medium.

[0002] A technology related to the present disclosure is disclosed in Patent Document 1. Patent Document 1 discloses calculating the ratio of "non-display areas where no products are displayed" to "display areas" and issuing a notification when the ratio of non-display areas is equal to or greater than a threshold. Patent Document 1 also discloses changing this threshold depending on the time of day, season, month, week, day of the week, period, etc.

[0003] International Publication No. 2021 / 090755

[0004] When issuing stocking notifications by referencing a threshold, as in the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1, it is important to set the threshold appropriately. If the threshold is inappropriate, the timing of the notification may be delayed, which could result in stockouts on the shelves. Also, if the threshold is inappropriate, the timing of the notification may be too early, requiring workers to perform stocking tasks unnecessarily multiple times.

[0005] The technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 optimizes thresholds by changing them according to time of day, season, month, week, day of the week, period, etc. However, Patent Document 1 does not disclose how to determine thresholds corresponding to each time of day, season, month, week, day of the week, period, etc. One possible example is a method in which an operator intuitively determines thresholds based on their own experience, etc. However, in this case, there is a possibility that the set thresholds may not be appropriate.

[0006] In view of the above-mentioned problems, an example of an objective of the present disclosure is to provide a notification device, a notification method, and a recording medium that perform stocking notification based on an appropriately set threshold value.

[0007] The notification device of the present disclosure comprises: a reference value acquisition means for acquiring a reference value indicating at least one of the fill rate of a target product on a display shelf and the cumulative number of units of the target product sold since the time the product was stocked; a notification means for notifying a stocking request when the relationship between the reference value and a threshold value satisfies a notification condition; and a threshold setting means for setting the threshold value based on at least one of the reference value at the time of a past stocking request when the fill rate did not fall below a lower limit value after the stocking request and before the product was stocked, and the reference value at the time of a past stocking when the fill rate did not fall below the lower limit value.

[0008] In addition, the notification method of the present disclosure involves one or more computers obtaining a reference value indicating at least one of the fill rate of the target product on the display shelf and the cumulative sales number of the target product from the time the product was stocked, notifying a stocking request if the relationship between the reference value and a threshold value satisfies the notification condition, and setting the threshold value based on at least one of the reference value from a previous stocking request in which the fill rate did not fall below a lower limit after the stocking request and before the product was stocked, and the reference value from a previous stocking in which the fill rate did not fall below the lower limit.

[0009] In addition, the recording medium of the present disclosure stores a program that causes a computer to function as: a reference value acquisition means that acquires a reference value indicating at least one of the fill rate of the target product on the display shelf and the cumulative sales number of the target product from the time the product was stocked; a notification means that notifies of a stocking request when the relationship between the reference value and a threshold value satisfies a notification condition; and a threshold setting means that sets the threshold value based on at least one of the reference value at the time of a past stocking request when the fill rate did not fall below a lower limit value after the stocking request and before the product was stocked, and the reference value at the time of a past stocking when the fill rate did not fall below the lower limit value.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a notification device, a notification method, and a recording medium are realized that perform stocking notification based on an appropriately set threshold value.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a functional block diagram of a notification device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing flow of a notification device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing another example of a processing flow of a notification device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a notification device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an image processed by a notification device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of a processing performed by a notification device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing another example of a processing performed by a notification device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining another example of a processing performed by a notification device according to the present disclosure.

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In this disclosure, the drawings relate to one or more embodiments. In all drawings, similar components are designated by similar reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0013] 1 is a functional block diagram showing an overview of a notification device 10. As shown in FIG. 1, the notification device 10 includes a reference value acquisition unit 11, a notification unit 12, and a threshold setting unit 13.

[0014] The reference value acquisition unit 11 and the notification unit 12 execute the process shown in the flowchart of FIG.

[0015] In S10, the reference value acquisition unit 11 acquires a reference value indicating at least one of the fill rate of the target product on the display shelf and the cumulative number of units of the target product sold since the time the product was put out. In S11, the notification unit 12 notifies a stocking request if the relationship between the reference value acquired in S10 and a threshold value satisfies the notification condition.

[0016] The threshold setting unit 13 executes the process shown in the flowchart of FIG.

[0017] The threshold setting unit 13 sets the threshold based on at least one of the "reference value at the time of a past stocking request in which the fulfillment rate did not fall below the lower limit after the stocking request and before the stocking was performed" and the "reference value at the time of a past stocking performed in which the fulfillment rate did not fall below the lower limit."

[0018] In this way, the notification device 10 can set the threshold value based on past successful cases in which the fulfillment rate of the target product on the display shelf did not fall below the lower limit.

[0019] By setting a threshold based on a success case, it is possible to accurately set an appropriate threshold so that the fulfillment rate does not fall below the lower limit. For example, by setting a threshold based on the "reference value at the time of stocking request" in a success case, it is possible to make a stocking request at a timing that conforms to the stocking request in the success case. Also, by setting a threshold based on the "reference value at the time of stocking" in a success case, it is possible to make a stocking request at a timing that conforms to the stocking request in the success case.

[0020] Furthermore, as long as the business continues, past success stories will be accumulated. The notification device 10 can appropriately set thresholds based on such success stories that can be updated daily. By setting thresholds based on past success stories that can be updated daily, it is possible to accurately set appropriate thresholds that reflect daily changes such as fluctuations in worker skills, changes in workers, and changes in sales trends for each product. Furthermore, by setting thresholds for each store based on the success stories of each store, it is possible to set appropriate thresholds that suit the characteristics of each store.

[0021] As a result, the notification device 10 can issue a stocking notification based on an appropriately set threshold value.

[0022] Second Embodiment Overview A notification device 10 according to a second embodiment is a specific implementation of the configuration of the notification device 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0023] In the second embodiment, the "reference value" is the fill rate of the target product on the display shelf. The notification device 10 sets the threshold value based on the "reference value at the time of a past stocking request in which the fill rate did not fall below the lower limit after the stocking request and before the stocking was performed." This will be explained in detail below.

[0024] "Hardware Configuration" First, an example of the hardware configuration of the notification device 10 will be described. Each functional unit of the notification device 10 is realized by any combination of hardware and software. Those skilled in the art will understand that there are various variations in the realization method and device. Software includes programs that are pre-loaded when the device is shipped, and programs downloaded from recording media such as CDs (Compact Discs) or servers on the Internet.

[0025] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of the notification device 10. As shown in FIG. 4, the notification device 10 has a processor 1A, a memory 2A, an input / output interface 3A, a peripheral circuit 4A, and a bus 5A. The peripheral circuit 4A includes various modules. The notification device 10 does not necessarily have to have the peripheral circuit 4A. Note that the notification device 10 may be composed of multiple devices that are physically and / or logically separated. In this case, each of the multiple devices can have the above hardware configuration.

[0026] The bus 5A is a data transmission path for the processor 1A, memory 2A, peripheral circuit 4A, and input / output interface 3A to mutually transmit and receive data. The processor 1A is, for example, a processing unit such as a CPU or a graphics processing unit (GPU). The memory 2A is, for example, a random access memory (RAM) or a read-only memory (ROM). The input / output interface 3A includes interfaces for acquiring information from input devices, external devices, external servers, external sensors, cameras, etc., and interfaces for outputting information to output devices, external devices, external servers, etc. The input / output interface 3A also includes an interface for connecting to a communication network such as the Internet. Examples of input devices include a keyboard, mouse, microphone, physical buttons, touch panel, etc. Examples of output devices include a display, speaker, printer, mailer, etc. The processor 1A can issue commands to each module and perform calculations based on the results of those calculations.

[0027] "Functional Configuration" Next, the functional configuration of the notification device 10 will be described in detail. Fig. 1 shows an example of a functional block diagram of the notification device 10. As shown in the figure, the notification device 10 has a reference value acquisition unit 11, a notification unit 12, and a threshold setting unit 13.

[0028] The reference value acquisition unit 11 acquires a reference value indicating the fill rate of a target product on a display shelf.

[0029] A "display shelf" is a shelf on which products are displayed. Display shelves are installed in, for example, retail stores.

[0030] The "target product" is a product that is the target of notification processing by the notification device 10. Some or all of the products handled by a store are the target products. Some or all of the products handled by a store may be registered in advance in the notification device 10 as target products.

[0031] The "fulfillment rate" is the percentage of the area in which each product is displayed (the display area assigned to each product) that the product is displayed in. A display area is assigned to each product in advance. Each product is displayed in its respective display area.

[0032] The reference value acquisition unit 11 calculates the fill rate of the target product based on an image of the display area of ​​the target product. An example of the process of calculating the fill rate will be described below, but the present invention is not limited to this example.

[0033] In one example, as shown in Figure 5, a camera is installed at a position and orientation that captures an image of the display area of ​​the target products. The image capture angle shown in Figure 5 is merely an example and is not limited to this. The camera may be attached by any means to another display shelf opposite the display shelf on which the target products are displayed. The camera may also be attached by any means to an object other than a display shelf. The camera may also be attached to the ceiling or wall of the store.

[0034] The camera may continuously capture moving images, or may capture moving images of a predetermined length every predetermined time. Alternatively, the camera may capture a predetermined number of still images every predetermined time. The predetermined time, the predetermined length, and the predetermined number of images are design factors that are determined in advance. The predetermined time may be a unit time described below.

[0035] The reference value acquisition unit 11 analyzes the image generated by the camera (e.g., FIG. 5 ) and identifies an area in the image where the target product is located. A rectangular area including the target product may be identified as the area where the target product is located. When there are multiple target products, the reference value acquisition unit 11 identifies the area where each target product is located. This identification can be achieved using the appearance features of the target products. Specifically, the reference value acquisition unit 11 can detect the target product from the image using a learning model generated by machine learning, pattern matching, or any other technique.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 5, in an image captured by a camera whose position and orientation are fixed in advance, the display area X １ ~X ４ is designated and registered in the notification device 10.

[0037] The reference value acquisition unit 11 then calculates the fill rate based on the display area of ​​each target product and the area in which each target product is detected in the image. For example, the reference value acquisition unit 11 can calculate the fill rate as the ratio of the "area in the image of the area in which each target product is located within the display area of ​​each target product" to the "area in the image of the display area of ​​each target product."

[0038] As another example of the process for calculating the fill rate, the technology disclosed in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1 may be used. That is, the reference value acquisition unit 11 may calculate the rate using the "technology for calculating the ratio of non-display areas where no products are displayed to the display areas" disclosed in Patent Document 1. Then, the reference value acquisition unit 11 may calculate the fill rate by subtracting the ratio from 100%.

[0039] The reference value acquisition unit 11 repeatedly acquires a reference value indicating the fill rate of the target product on the display shelf for each unit time. That is, the reference value acquisition unit 11 analyzes the image for each unit time and calculates the fill rate of the target product.

[0040] The "unit time" is a predetermined time. The unit time may be set at the time of shipping the notification device 10. Alternatively, the user may be able to set the unit time. The same unit time may be set for all target products. Alternatively, the unit time may be set for each target product.

[0041] For example, the time for one frame of a moving image may be set as the unit time. In this way, all frame images can be analyzed and the fulfillment rate of the target product can be calculated for each frame. As a result, changes in the fulfillment rate of the target product can be grasped in detail.

[0042] Alternatively, a time longer than the time of one frame may be set as the unit time. For example, a time corresponding to the rate of change of the fulfillment rate may be set as the unit time. If the unit time is too large compared to the rate of change of the fulfillment rate, small changes in the fulfillment rate cannot be accurately detected. As a result, appropriate processing (stocking requests) according to changes in the fulfillment rate cannot be performed. On the other hand, if the unit time is too small compared to the rate of change of the fulfillment rate, the fulfillment rate will be calculated multiple times even when there is almost no change in the fulfillment rate, which increases the processing burden on the computer. By setting a time corresponding to the rate of change of the fulfillment rate as the unit time, it is possible to accurately detect small changes in the fulfillment rate while reducing the processing burden on the computer.

[0043] The rate of change in the fulfillment rate may differ for each target product. The rate of change in the fulfillment rate is faster for target products that sell well. Therefore, a unit time may be set for each target product according to the rate of change in the fulfillment rate. The unit time for target products that sell well may be, for example, several minutes to several tens of minutes. And the unit time for target products that do not sell well may be, for example, several tens of minutes to several hours.

[0044] Returning to FIG. 1 , the notification unit 12 notifies a stocking request when the relationship between the reference value acquired by the reference value acquisition unit 11 and the threshold value satisfies the notification condition. As described above, the reference value acquisition unit 11 repeatedly acquires a reference value at each unit time. The notification unit 12 repeatedly determines whether the relationship between the latest reference value and the threshold value satisfies the notification condition. Then, the notification unit 12 notifies a stocking request at the timing when the relationship between the latest reference value and the threshold value satisfies the notification condition.

[0045] The "threshold" is determined in advance by the threshold setting unit 13, which will be described below. The processing of the threshold setting unit 13 will be described later.

[0046] The "notification condition" is that the fulfillment rate (reference value) falls below the threshold value.

[0047] A "stocking request" is a request to replenish a target product on a display shelf. The stocking request includes information requesting stocking. The stocking request may also include information indicating the target product for which stocking is requested (product name, etc.). The stocking request may also include information indicating the display location of the target product for which stocking is requested (aisle name, area name, etc.). The stocking request may also indicate the fulfillment rate when it falls below a threshold.

[0048] The stocking request is notified to a store worker. The notification unit 12 can employ any notification means capable of realizing such a notification. For example, the notification unit 12 may output the stocking request as an image or sound via a display, speaker, or the like provided in the notification device 10. Alternatively, the notification unit 12 may send the stocking request to a pre-registered device and cause that device to output the stocking request. These devices can output the stocking request as an image or sound via a display, speaker, or the like. For example, a point of sales (POS) register installed in the store, a device installed in the backroom of the store, a mobile terminal carried by a worker, or the like may be pre-registered.

[0049] In response to a stocking request, a worker can display the target product stored in the back yard in the display area of ​​the display shelf. In addition, the worker can newly manufacture the target product in response to the request and display the manufactured target product in the display area of ​​the display shelf. In this case, the target product is, for example, a product manufactured in each store, such as a prepared dish.

[0050] The threshold setting unit 13 sets the threshold based on a reference value at the time of a past stocking request in which the fulfillment rate did not fall below the lower limit value after the stocking request and before the stocking was performed.

[0051] "After a stocking request" refers to a time after the notifying unit 12 notifies the stocking request.

[0052] "Stocking" refers to replenishing the display area of ​​the display shelf with target products. The threshold setting unit 13 can specify the timing at which stocking is performed using various means.

[0053] In one example, the threshold setting unit 13 can identify the timing by image analysis. For example, the threshold setting unit 13 can identify the timing by image analysis. ｎ and ｎ＋１ The timing at which the product was stocked may be determined based on the change in the fulfillment rate over time. ｎ and t ｎ＋１ is, for example, the timing at which the reference value acquisition unit 11 acquires the reference value, but is not limited to this. ｎ＋１ For example, t ｎ However, it is not limited to this.

[0054] For example, t ｎ＋１ The fulfillment rate of t ｎ If the fulfillment rate is greater than t ｎ and ｎ＋１ It may also be specified that stocking was carried out between t ｎ＋１ The fulfillment rate of t ｎ If the fulfillment rate is greater than the predetermined value, the threshold setting unit 13 sets t ｎ and ｎ＋１ It may be determined that stocking was performed between t and t. The predetermined value is a value determined in advance. For example, the fill rate may also increase based on the behavior of a customer returning a target product that was once placed in a shopping cart to the display shelf. However, the increase in the fill rate based on such customer behavior is smaller than the increase in the fill rate due to stocking. As described above, "t ｎ＋１ The fulfillment rate of t ｎ By adopting the condition that the fulfillment rate is greater than a predetermined value, the inconvenience of falsely detecting customer behavior as stocking, as described above, can be reduced.

[0055] In another example, immediately after stocking a product, the worker may specify the product that was stocked and input the fact that the product was stocked into the notification device 10. Alternatively, after stocking a product, the worker may specify the product that was stocked and input the time of stocking into the notification device 10. The input by the worker may be made via an input device included in the notification device 10, or a mobile terminal carried by the worker that is configured to be able to communicate with the notification device 10.

[0056] The "lower limit" is a predetermined lower limit of the fulfillment rate. The lower limit is any value between 0 and 100. The lower limit may be set at the time of shipping the notification device 10. Alternatively, the user may be able to set the lower limit. The same lower limit may be set for all target products. Alternatively, a lower limit may be set for each target product.

[0057] In store operations, it is undesirable for the fulfillment rate of a target product to fall below a certain value. For example, if the fulfillment rate is 0, that is, if the target product is out of stock and not present in the display area, a sales opportunity for the target product will be lost. Also, if the fulfillment rate is greater than 0 but is a relatively small value, it may give customers the impression that the product is unsold, which may affect sales. For example, an appropriate lower limit value is set taking such points into consideration.

[0058] Each time a stocking request is notified by the notification unit 12, the threshold setting unit 13 can determine whether the fulfillment rate has fallen below a lower limit after the stocking request and before the stocking is performed.The threshold setting unit 13 can then update the threshold based on the determination result.In this way, each time a stocking request is notified by the notification unit 12, the threshold setting unit 13 can update the threshold based on the determination result at that time.By continuing this update process by the threshold setting unit 13, the threshold is optimized.

[0059] Details of the update process are as follows: If the fulfillment rate does not fall below the lower limit after a stocking request based on the first reference value is made and before stocking is performed, the threshold setting unit 13 updates the threshold to the first reference value. That is, the first reference value becomes the new threshold.

[0060] On the other hand, if the fulfillment rate falls below the lower limit after the stocking request based on the first reference value and before the stocking is performed, the threshold setting unit 13 updates the threshold to the reference value acquired a unit time before the timing at which the first reference value was acquired. In other words, the reference value acquired a unit time before the timing at which the first reference value was acquired becomes the new threshold.

[0061] The processing of the reference value acquisition unit 11, the notification unit 12, and the threshold setting unit 13 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0062] In the illustrated example, the threshold value is S and the lower limit value is L. The unit time is (t ｎ＋１ -t ｎ ) where n is an integer equal to or greater than 1. The reference value acquisition unit 11 acquires a reference value r ｎ The reference value r ｎ is the time t ｎ This is the fulfillment rate of the target product.

[0063] Time t １ Reference value r １ , and time t ２ Reference value r ２ are all equal to or greater than the threshold value S. ３ Reference value r ３ is smaller than the threshold value S. Therefore, the notification unit 12 ３ A stocking request will be notified at this timing.

[0064] After the notification of the stocking request, the threshold setting unit 13 identifies the timing at which the stocking request was made. ｎ and time t ｎ＋１ Alternatively, the threshold setting unit 13 may determine the timing at which the stocking was performed based on a time change in the fulfillment rate of the stocking. Alternatively, the threshold setting unit 13 may determine the timing at which the stocking was performed based on a user input. In the illustrated example, the threshold setting unit 13 determines the timing at which the stocking was performed based on a time t ５ and time t ６ It has been determined that the stocking took place between

[0065] In this case, the threshold value setting unit 13 sets the time t ５ Reference value r ５The threshold value setting unit 13 compares the reference value r ５ is not below the lower limit L (r ５ ≧L), the threshold S is set to a reference value r ３ That is, the reference value r ３ becomes the new threshold value S. The reference value r ３ is a reference value when notifying a stocking request. In other words, the reference value r ３ is the reference value that first falls below the threshold value S. ３ is less than the threshold S (r ３ <S). Reference value r ５ is not below the lower limit L (r ５ ≧L), it is a successful case. In this case, the threshold value setting unit 13 sets the threshold value S to the reference value r ３ By this update, the threshold S becomes smaller.

[0066] On the other hand, the threshold setting unit 13 sets the reference value r ５ is below the lower limit L (r ５ <L), the threshold S is set to the reference value r ２ The reference value r is updated to ２ is the reference value r ３ is a reference value acquired unit time before the timing at which the reference value r ２ is the reference value r that first falls below the threshold S. ３ The reference value r is the reference value acquired immediately before (unit time before) ２ is equal to or greater than the threshold S. (r ２ ≧S). Reference value r ５ is below the lower limit L (r ５ <L), it is a failure case. In this case, the threshold value setting unit 13 sets the threshold value S to the reference value r ２ By this update, the threshold value S is increased or maintained at the same value.

[0067] Next, an example of the processing flow of the notification device 10 will be described using the flowchart in Figure 7. Note that the purpose of this description is to explain the processing flow. Since the details of each process have been described above, they will be omitted here as appropriate.

[0068] First, the notification device 10 acquires a reference value indicating the fill rate of the target product on the display shelf (S30). Next, the notification device 10 determines whether the relationship between the first reference value acquired in S30 and a threshold value satisfies the notification condition (S31).

[0069] If the relationship between the first reference value and the threshold value does not satisfy the notification condition (No in S31), the notification device 10 proceeds to S36 and repeats the process.

[0070] On the other hand, if the relationship between the first reference value and the threshold value satisfies the notification condition (Yes in S31), the notification device 10 notifies the stocking request (S32). Next, the notification device 10 determines whether the fulfillment rate falls below the lower limit after the stocking request in S32 and before the stocking is performed (S33).

[0071] If the fulfillment rate does not fall below the lower limit after the stocking request in S32 and before stocking is performed (No in S33), the notification device 10 updates the threshold to the first reference value (S34).

[0072] On the other hand, if the fulfillment rate falls below the lower limit after the stocking request in S32 and before the stocking is performed (Yes in S33), the notification device 10 updates the threshold value to the reference value obtained immediately before the first reference value (unit time ago) (S35).

[0073] Thereafter, the notification device 10 proceeds to S36 and repeats the process.

[0074] As described above, the notification device 10 can set a threshold value based on past success cases in which the fulfillment rate of the target product on the display shelf did not fall below the lower limit. Specifically, the notification device 10 can set a reference value at the time of a stocking request in the past success cases as a new threshold value.

[0075] The notification device 10 can also set a threshold value based on past failure cases in which the fulfillment rate of the target product on the shelf fell below a lower limit. Specifically, the notification device 10 can set the new threshold value to the reference value acquired immediately before (a unit time before) the reference value at the time of the stocking request in the past failure case.

[0076] By setting a threshold based on success cases and failure cases, it is possible to accurately set an appropriate threshold so that the fulfillment rate does not fall below the lower limit. For example, by setting a threshold based on the "reference value at the time of stocking request" in a success case, it is possible to make a stocking request at a timing that conforms to the stocking request in the success case. Also, by setting a threshold based on the "reference value at the time of stocking request" in a failure case, it is possible to make a stocking request at an earlier timing than the stocking request in the failure case.

[0077] Furthermore, as long as a business continues, past success stories and failure stories will accumulate. The notification device 10 can appropriately set thresholds based on such success stories and failure stories that may be updated daily. By setting thresholds based on past success stories and failure stories that may be updated daily, it is possible to accurately set appropriate thresholds that reflect daily changes such as fluctuations in worker skills, changes in workers, and changes in sales trends for each product. Furthermore, by setting thresholds for each store based on the success stories and failure stories of each store, it is possible to set appropriate thresholds that suit the characteristics of each store.

[0078] Furthermore, each time the notification device 10 notifies a stocking request, it can determine whether the fulfillment rate has fallen below a lower limit after the stocking request and before the stocking is performed (determining whether it is a success or failure case).The notification device 10 can then update the threshold based on the determination result.In this way, each time the notification device 10 notifies a stocking request, it can update the threshold based on the determination result at that time.By continuing this update process by the notification device 10, the threshold is optimized.

[0079] <Third embodiment> The notification device 10 of the third embodiment is a specific implementation of the configuration of the notification device 10 of the first embodiment. The notification device 10 of the third embodiment is a modified version of the configuration of the notification device 10 of the second embodiment.

[0080] The notification device 10 of the third embodiment differs from the notification device 10 of the second embodiment in that the "reference value" is the "cumulative number of units of the target product sold since the time the product was put out." Incidentally, the "reference value" of the notification device 10 of the second embodiment is the "fullness rate of the target product on the display shelf." The differences from the notification device 10 of the second embodiment will be explained below.

[0081] The reference value acquisition unit 11 acquires a reference value indicating the cumulative sales number of the target product since the time when the product was put out. Note that the product is put out repeatedly. Taking this into consideration, the reference value can be defined as the cumulative sales number of the target product since the time when the product was most recently put out. Hereinafter, the cumulative sales number of the target product since the time when the product was most recently put out may be simply referred to as the "cumulative sales number." The reference value acquisition unit 11 can calculate the cumulative sales number for each target product based on the information registered in the POS system.

[0082] The "timing at which stocking was carried out" can be identified using the same method as that described in the second embodiment.

[0083] In one example, the reference value acquisition unit 11 can identify the timing by image analysis. For example, the reference value acquisition unit 11 can identify the timing by image analysis. ｎ and ｎ＋１ The timing at which the product was stocked may be determined based on the time change in the fulfillment rate of the product. ５ and ６ Then, the reference value acquisition unit 11 specifies the time between "t ５ and ６ The cumulative number of sales of the target product from the start time to the present time can be counted, with a predetermined timing between t ５ may be set as the start timing, or t ６ may be set as the start timing, or t ５ and ６ The midpoint of the above may be set as the start timing, or another timing may be set as the start timing.

[0084] In another example, immediately after stocking a product, the worker may specify the product that has been stocked and input the fact that the product has been stocked into the notification device 10. In this case, the reference value acquisition unit 11 can count the cumulative number of units of the product sold from the start time to the present time, using the time when the worker makes the input as the start time.

[0085] In another example, after stocking a product, the worker may specify the product that was stocked and input the time of stocking into the notification device 10. In this case, the reference value acquisition unit 11 can count the cumulative number of units of the product sold from the start time to the present time, using the time of stocking input by the worker as the start time.

[0086] The start timing may be other timings similar to those mentioned above.

[0087] The reference value acquisition unit 11 can count the cumulative number of sales of the target product from the start timing to the present time for each unit time.

[0088] Other configurations of the reference value acquisition unit 11 are the same as those in the first and second embodiments.

[0089] As described in the second embodiment, the notification unit 12 notifies a stocking request when the relationship between the reference value acquired by the reference value acquisition unit 11 and the threshold value satisfies the notification condition. As described above, the reference value acquisition unit 11 repeatedly acquires a reference value at each unit time. The notification unit 12 repeatedly determines whether the relationship between the latest reference value and the threshold value satisfies the notification condition. Then, the notification unit 12 notifies a stocking request at the timing when the relationship between the latest reference value and the threshold value satisfies the notification condition.

[0090] The "notification condition" is that the cumulative number of sales (reference value) exceeds a threshold value.

[0091] Other configurations of the notification unit 12 are the same as those in the first and second embodiments. The configuration of the threshold setting unit 13 is the same as those in the first and second embodiments.

[0092] The processing of the reference value acquisition unit 11, the notification unit 12, and the threshold setting unit 13 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0093] In the illustrated example, the threshold value is S and the lower limit value is L. The unit time is (t ｎ＋１ -t ｎ ) where n is an integer equal to or greater than 1. The reference value acquisition unit 11 acquires a reference value r ｎ The reference value r ｎ is the time t ｎ This is the cumulative number of units sold of the target product.

[0094] Time t １ Reference value r １ , and time t ２ Reference value r ２ are all equal to or less than the threshold value S. ３ Reference value r ３ is greater than the threshold value S. Therefore, the notification unit 12 ３ A stocking request will be notified at this timing.

[0095] After the notification of the stocking request, the threshold setting unit 13 identifies the timing at which the stocking request is made. As described in the second embodiment, the threshold setting unit 13 determines the timing at which the stocking request is made. ｎ and time t ｎ＋１ Alternatively, the threshold setting unit 13 may determine the timing at which the stocking was performed based on a time change in the fulfillment rate of the stocking. Alternatively, the threshold setting unit 13 may determine the timing at which the stocking was performed based on a user input. In the illustrated example, the threshold setting unit 13 determines the timing at which the stocking was performed based on a time t ５ and time t ６ It has been determined that the stocking took place between

[0096] In this case, the threshold value setting unit 13 sets the time t ５ The fulfillment rate of the target product is compared with the lower limit value L. The fulfillment rate of the target product is calculated by the method described in the second embodiment.

[0097] Then, the threshold setting unit 13 determines whether the time t ５ If the fulfillment rate of the target product is not below the lower limit L (t ５ sufficiency rate ≧ L), threshold S is set as a reference value r ３ That is, the reference value r ３ becomes the new threshold value S. The reference value r ３is a reference value when notifying a stocking request. In other words, the reference value r ３ is the reference value that exceeds the threshold value S for the first time. ３ is greater than the threshold S (r ３ > S). Time t ５ If the fulfillment rate of the target product is not below the lower limit L (t ５ In this case, the threshold value setting unit 13 sets the threshold value S to the reference value r ３ By this update, the threshold value S becomes larger.

[0098] On the other hand, the threshold setting unit 13 ５ If the fulfillment rate of the target product is below the lower limit L (t ５ (fulfillment rate < L), threshold S is set as reference value r ２ The reference value r is updated to ２ is the reference value r ３ is a reference value acquired unit time before the timing at which the reference value r ２ is the reference value r that first exceeds the threshold value S ３ The reference value r is the reference value acquired immediately before (unit time before) ２ is less than or equal to the threshold S (r ２ ≦S). Time t ５ If the fulfillment rate of the target product is below the lower limit L (t ５ In this case, the threshold value setting unit 13 sets the threshold value S to the reference value r ２ As a result of this update, the threshold value S is either reduced or maintained at the same value.

[0099] An example of the processing flow of the notification device 10 is shown in the flowchart of Fig. 7. The example of the processing flow of the notification device 10 is the same as the processing flow described in the second embodiment, except that the "fulfillment rate of the target product" is replaced with the "cumulative sales number of the target product."

[0100] Other configurations of the notification device 10 of this embodiment are similar to those of the notification device 10 of the first and second embodiments.

[0101] The notification device 10 of this embodiment achieves the same effects as the notification device 10 of the first and second embodiments. Furthermore, the notification device 10 of this embodiment can make a stocking request based on the cumulative sales volume of the target product since the most recent stocking. The cumulative sales volume calculated based on information registered in the POS system may be more accurate than the fulfillment rate of the target product calculated by image analysis. Making a stocking request based on more reliable information allows for a stocking request to be made at a more appropriate time. Furthermore, the notification device 10 of this embodiment can set an appropriate threshold value even when making a stocking request based on the cumulative sales volume of the target product.

[0102] Fourth Embodiment A notification device 10 according to a fourth embodiment is a specific implementation of the configuration of the notification device 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0103] The "reference value" in the fourth embodiment is the fill rate of the target product on the display shelf. The notification device 10 sets the threshold value based on the "reference value at the time of a past stocking request in which the fill rate did not fall below the lower limit after the stocking request and before the stocking was performed." These are the same as those in the second embodiment.

[0104] In the second embodiment, the threshold value was updated each time a stocking request was notified. In the fourth embodiment, "reference values ​​from past stocking requests in which the fulfillment rate did not fall below the lower limit after the stocking request was made and before the stocking was actually made" are accumulated. Then, at a predetermined timing, the threshold value is updated based on the data accumulated up to that point. This will be explained in detail below.

[0105] The configurations of the reference value acquisition unit 11 and the notification unit 12 are the same as those in the first and second embodiments.

[0106] The threshold setting unit 13 determines whether the fulfillment rate falls below a lower limit value after the stocking request and before the stocking is performed each time the notification unit 12 notifies the stocking request. Then, the threshold setting unit 13 registers the determination result in the notification device 10.

[0107] 9 shows an example of information registered by the threshold setting unit 13. The information shown in the figure links together the stocking request number, date and time, reference value at the time of notification, reference value immediately before stocking, and comparison result with the lower limit value.

[0108] The "stocking request number" is information for distinguishing between multiple stocking request notifications issued by the notification unit 12.

[0109] The "date and time" indicates the date and time when each of the multiple stocking request notifications was made.

[0110] The "reference value at the time of notification" is a reference value when each of the multiple stocking request notifications is made. In the example of FIG. 6 described in the second embodiment, r ３ is the reference value at the time of notification.

[0111] The "reference value immediately before stocking" is a reference value immediately before stocking performed in response to each of the multiple stocking request notifications. In the example of FIG. 6 described in the second embodiment, ５ is the reference value at the time of notification.

[0112] "Comparison result with lower limit" is the result of comparing the reference value just before stocking with the lower limit. The possible values ​​for this item are "Above (reference value just before stocking is above the lower limit)," "Same (reference value just before stocking and lower limit are the same)," and "Below (reference value just before stocking is below the lower limit)."

[0113] The threshold setting unit 13 accumulates such information, and then updates the threshold at a predetermined timing based on the information accumulated up to that point.

[0114] The "predetermined timing" may be a timing when a predetermined time has elapsed since the previous update timing. Alternatively, the predetermined timing may be a timing defined in advance using time or calendar information (date, day of the week, etc.) (e.g., "15:00 every day," "9:00 every Monday," "10:00 on June 1st every year," etc.). Alternatively, the predetermined timing may be a timing when the user inputs an instruction to update the threshold. Alternatively, the predetermined timing may be a timing when the fulfillment rate falls below a lower limit after a stocking request and before stocking is performed. The predetermined timing may be any other timing.

[0115] At a predetermined timing, the threshold setting unit 13 extracts, from the information accumulated up to that point, a notification (success case) of a stocking request in which the fulfillment rate did not fall below the lower limit after the stocking request and before the stocking was performed, and calculates a new threshold based on the "reference value at the time of notification" in the extracted stocking request notification.

[0116] For example, the threshold setting unit 13 calculates the maximum, minimum, average, mode, or median of the extracted multiple "reference values ​​at the time of notification" as a new threshold. Then, the threshold setting unit 13 updates the threshold to the newly calculated threshold. By setting the minimum value as the new threshold, it is possible to delay the timing of notifying the stocking request as much as possible. On the other hand, by setting the maximum, average, mode, or median as the new threshold, it is possible to set a safe threshold that can more likely avoid the inconvenience of the reference value just before stocking falling below the lower limit.

[0117] The threshold setting unit 13 may refer to all registered data (information shown in FIG. 9 ), or may refer to only data that satisfies a reference condition. The reference condition may be "data within a certain period of time (e.g., data within the past year)," "a predetermined number of newest data (e.g., data related to the 50 most recent stocking request notifications)," or other conditions. The threshold setting unit 13 extracts, from the reference data, stocking request notifications whose fulfillment rate did not fall below a lower limit after the stocking request and before stocking was performed.

[0118] Next, an example of the processing flow of the notification device 10 will be described using the flowcharts of Figures 10 and 11. Note that the purpose of this description is to explain the processing flow. Since the details of each process have been described above, they will be omitted here as appropriate.

[0119] 10, the notification device 10 acquires a reference value indicating the fill rate of a target product on a display shelf (S40). Next, the notification device 10 determines whether the relationship between the first reference value acquired in S40 and a threshold value satisfies a notification condition (S41).

[0120] If the relationship between the first reference value and the threshold value does not satisfy the notification condition (No in S41), the notification device 10 proceeds to S44 and repeats the process.

[0121] On the other hand, if the relationship between the first reference value and the threshold value satisfies the notification condition (Yes in S41), the notification device 10 notifies the stocking request (S42). Next, the notification device 10 determines whether the fulfillment rate falls below the lower limit after the stocking request in S42 and before the stocking is performed, and registers the result (S43).

[0122] Thereafter, the notification device 10 proceeds to S44 and repeats the process.

[0123] 11, the notification device 10 is in a waiting state for the timing to update the threshold value (S50). When the timing to update the threshold value arrives (Yes in S50), the notification device 10 updates the threshold value based on the data registered at that time (S51).

[0124] Thereafter, the notification device 10 proceeds to S52 and repeats the process.

[0125] Other configurations of the notification device 10 of this embodiment are similar to those of the notification device 10 of the first to third embodiments.

[0126] The notification device 10 of this embodiment achieves the same effects as the notification devices 10 of the first to third embodiments. Furthermore, the notification device 10 of this embodiment can update the threshold at predetermined intervals, rather than updating the threshold each time a stocking request is notified. This notification device 10 can reduce the frequency of threshold updates, thereby reducing the processing load on the computer.

[0127] Fifth Embodiment The notification device 10 of the fifth embodiment is a specific implementation of the configuration of the notification device 10 of the first embodiment. The notification device 10 of the fifth embodiment is a modified version of the configuration of the notification device 10 of the fourth embodiment.

[0128] The notification device 10 of the fifth embodiment differs from the notification device 10 of the fourth embodiment in that the "reference value" is the "cumulative number of units sold of the target product from the time when the product was put out." Incidentally, the "reference value" of the notification device 10 of the fourth embodiment is the "fullness rate of the target product on the display shelf."

[0129] The notification unit 12 notifies a stocking request based on the result of comparing the threshold value with the cumulative sales quantity. The threshold setting unit 13 determines whether the fulfillment rate has fallen below a lower limit value after the stocking request is made and before the stocking is actually made, each time a stocking request is notified. The threshold setting unit 13 then registers the determination result in the notification device 10. At a predetermined timing, the threshold setting unit 13 updates the threshold value based on the data accumulated up to that point. Details of each of these processes are as described in the first to fourth embodiments.

[0130] Other configurations of the notification device 10 of this embodiment are similar to those of the notification devices 10 of the first to fourth embodiments. According to the notification device 10 of this embodiment, the same effects as those of the notification devices 10 of the first to fourth embodiments are achieved.

[0131] Sixth Embodiment The notification device 10 of the sixth embodiment is a specific implementation of the configuration of the notification device 10 of the first embodiment. The notification device 10 of the sixth embodiment is a modified version of the configurations of the notification devices 10 of the second to fifth embodiments.

[0132] The notification device 10 of the sixth embodiment differs from the notification devices 10 of the second to fifth embodiments in that the threshold value is set based on the "reference value at the time of stocking." Incidentally, the notification devices 10 of the second to fifth embodiments set the threshold value based on the "reference value at the time of stocking request."

[0133] First, the configuration of the notification device 10 of the sixth embodiment, which is realized by modifying the configuration of the notification device 10 of the second embodiment, will be described with reference to FIG.

[0134] In the illustrated example, the threshold value is S (fulfillment rate) and the lower limit is L. The unit time is (t ｎ＋１ -t ｎ ) where n is an integer equal to or greater than 1. The reference value acquisition unit 11 acquires a reference value r ｎ The reference value r ｎ is the time t ｎ This is the fulfillment rate of the target product.

[0135] Time t １ Reference value r １ , and time t ２ Reference value r ２ are all equal to or greater than the threshold value S. ３ Reference value r ３ is smaller than the threshold value S. Therefore, the notification unit 12 ３ A stocking request will be notified at this timing.

[0136] After the notification of the stocking request, the threshold setting unit 13 identifies the timing at which the stocking request was made. ｎ and time t ｎ＋１ Alternatively, the threshold setting unit 13 may determine the timing at which the stocking was performed based on a time change in the fulfillment rate of the stocking. Alternatively, the threshold setting unit 13 may determine the timing at which the stocking was performed based on a user input. In the illustrated example, the threshold setting unit 13 determines the timing at which the stocking was performed based on a time t ５ and time t６ It has been determined that the stocking took place between

[0137] In this case, the threshold value setting unit 13 sets the time t ５ Reference value r ５ The threshold value setting unit 13 compares the reference value r ５ is not below the lower limit L (r ５ ≧L), the threshold S is set to a reference value r ５ That is, the reference value r ５ becomes the new threshold value S. The reference value r ５ is the reference value immediately before stocking. ５ is smaller than the threshold S (r ５ <S).

[0138] On the other hand, the threshold setting unit 13 sets the reference value r ５ is below the lower limit L (r ５ <L), the threshold S is set to the reference value r ４ The reference value r is updated to ４ is the reference value r ５ In the example of FIG. 12, the reference value r ４ is smaller than the threshold S (r ４ <S). However, the time t ｍ Time t before unit time ｍ－１ The reference value at may be smaller than the threshold value S as in the example of FIG. 12, or may be equal to or larger than the threshold value S. For example, after a stocking request is made at the timing in the example of FIG. 12, at time t ３ and time t ４ If stocking is performed during the time between stocking and the time t ３ The time unit before that is time t ２ As shown in FIG. ２ Reference value r ２ is greater than or equal to the threshold S (r ２ ≧S).

[0139] Next, the configuration of the notification device 10 of the sixth embodiment, which is realized by modifying the configuration of the notification device 10 of the third embodiment, will be described with reference to FIG.

[0140] In the illustrated example, the threshold value is S (cumulative sales volume) and the lower limit is L. The unit time is (t ｎ＋１ -t ｎ ) where n is an integer equal to or greater than 1. The reference value acquisition unit 11 acquires a reference value r ｎ The reference value r ｎ is the time t ｎ This is the cumulative number of units sold of the target product.

[0141] Time t １ Reference value r １ , and time t ２ Reference value r ２ are all equal to or less than the threshold value S. ３ Reference value r ３ is greater than the threshold value S. Therefore, the notification unit 12 ３ A stocking request will be notified at this timing.

[0142] After the notification of the stocking request, the threshold setting unit 13 identifies the timing at which the stocking request was made. ｎ and time t ｎ＋１ Alternatively, the threshold setting unit 13 may determine the timing at which the stocking was performed based on a time change in the fulfillment rate of the stocking. Alternatively, the threshold setting unit 13 may determine the timing at which the stocking was performed based on a user input. In the illustrated example, the threshold setting unit 13 determines the timing at which the stocking was performed based on a time t ５ and time t ６ It has been determined that the stocking took place between

[0143] In this case, the threshold value setting unit 13 sets the time t ５ Reference value r ５ The threshold value setting unit 13 compares the reference value r ５ is not below the lower limit L (r ５ ≧L), the threshold S is set to a reference value r ５ That is, the reference value r ５ becomes the new threshold value S. The reference value r ５ is the reference value immediately before stocking. ５ is greater than the threshold S (r ５ >S).

[0144] Reference value r５ is not below the lower limit L (r ５ ≧L), the threshold setting unit 13 may ５ The cumulative number of sales after a predetermined time from the time t ５ and time t ６ The threshold setting unit 13 counts the cumulative number of sold items without resetting (returning it to 0) at that timing. ５ The cumulative number of sold items after a predetermined time from the time of purchase may be set as the threshold value S. The predetermined time may be, for example, the average length of time that customers stay in the store.

[0145] On the other hand, the threshold setting unit 13 sets the reference value r ５ is below the lower limit L (r ５ <L), the threshold S is set to the reference value r ４ The reference value r is updated to ４ is the reference value r ５ is a reference value acquired unit time before the timing at which the

[0146] Next, a description will be given of the configuration of a notification device 10 according to a sixth embodiment, which is realized by modifying the configuration of the notification device 10 according to the fourth and fifth embodiments.

[0147] At a predetermined timing, the threshold setting unit 13 extracts notifications (successful cases) of stocking requests in which the fulfillment rate at the time of stocking did not fall below the lower limit value from the information shown in Figure 9 that has been accumulated up to that point.

[0148] The threshold setting unit 13 then calculates a new threshold based on the "reference value immediately before stocking" in the extracted stocking request notification. The reference value immediately before stocking can be considered as a reference value at the time of stocking. The reference value immediately before stocking is the fulfillment rate or the cumulative number of sold items.

[0149] For example, the threshold setting unit 13 calculates the maximum value, minimum value, average value, mode value, or median value of the extracted multiple "pre-stocking reference values" as a new threshold value. Then, the threshold setting unit 13 updates the threshold value to the newly calculated threshold value.

[0150] The threshold setting unit 13 may refer to all registered data (information shown in FIG. 9 ), or may refer to only data that satisfies a reference condition. The reference condition may be "data within a certain period of time (e.g., data within the past year)," "a predetermined number of newest data (e.g., data related to the 50 most recent stocking request notifications)," or other conditions. The threshold setting unit 13 extracts, from the reference data, stocking request notifications (success cases) in which the fulfillment rate at the time of stocking did not fall below a lower limit.

[0151] Other configurations of the notification device 10 of this embodiment are similar to those of the notification device 10 of the first to fifth embodiments.

[0152] The notification device 10 of this embodiment achieves the same effects as the notification devices 10 of the first to fifth embodiments. Furthermore, the notification device 10 of this embodiment can set a threshold based on a reference value from a past stocking operation performed when the fulfillment rate did not fall below a lower limit, and can notify a stocking request based on that threshold. The notification device 10 of this embodiment sets a threshold based on the "reference value at the time of stocking" in a successful case, making it possible to make a stocking request at a timing that conforms to the stocking in the successful case.

[0153] <Modifications> Modifications applicable to all the embodiments will be described below.

[0154] [Modification 1] In Modification 1, the threshold setting unit 13 sets two thresholds: a first threshold and a second threshold.

[0155] The first threshold is set based on a reference value at the time of a past first stocking request in which the fulfillment rate did not fall below the lower limit after the first stocking request and before the stocking was performed. The threshold setting unit 13 sets the first threshold using the method for setting thresholds described in the second to fifth embodiments.

[0156] The second threshold is set based on a reference value from a previous stocking operation performed when the fulfillment rate did not fall below the lower limit. The threshold setting unit 13 sets the second threshold using the method for setting a threshold described in the sixth embodiment.

[0157] The notification unit 12 notifies the first stocking request when the relationship between the reference value and the first threshold satisfies the notification condition, and notifies the second stocking request when the relationship between the reference value and the second threshold satisfies the notification condition.

[0158] According to this first modification, the notification device 10 can issue a first stocking request at a timing that conforms to the "first stocking request" in the successful case, and can issue a second stocking request at a timing that conforms to the "stocking" in the successful case. By notifying stocking requests at two different times, store workers can stock items at a more appropriate time. For example, a worker can recognize the need for stocking in response to the first stocking request and prepare to start stocking. Preparations for starting stocking can include clearing up current work or requesting other workers to carry out stocking work. The worker who actually performs the stocking can then start stocking in response to the second stocking request. Note that the use of the first stocking request and the second stocking request described here is merely an example, and they can also be used in other ways.

[0159] "Variation 2" The threshold setting unit 13 can set a threshold for each condition defined by a time period, season, month, week, day of the week, period, etc., based on success cases under each condition. The notification unit 12 then identifies the current condition, and if the relationship between the threshold corresponding to the identified condition and the reference value satisfies the notification condition, notifies a stocking request. The notification unit 12 and the threshold setting unit 13 can acquire data for identifying the condition by any means. For example, the notification unit 12 and the threshold setting unit 13 may acquire data for identifying the condition from an external server. Alternatively, the user may input data for identifying the condition into the notification device 10. The notification unit 12 and the threshold setting unit 13 may also acquire data for identifying the condition by other means.

[0160] Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to the embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Various modifications that can be understood by those skilled in the art can be made to the configuration and details of the present disclosure within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, each embodiment can be combined with other embodiments as appropriate.

[0161] In addition, in the flowcharts used in the above description, multiple steps (processes) are described in order. However, the order of the steps performed in each embodiment is not limited to the order described. In each embodiment, the order of the steps shown in the drawings can be changed to the extent that the content is not affected. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments can be combined to the extent that the content is not contradictory.

[0162] A part or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

[0163] 1. A notification device comprising: a reference value acquisition means for acquiring a reference value indicating at least one of the fill rate of a target product on a display shelf and the cumulative number of units of the target product sold since the time the product was stocked; a notification means for notifying a stocking request when the relationship between the reference value and a threshold satisfies a notification condition; and a threshold setting means for setting the threshold based on at least one of the reference value at the time of a past stocking request in which the fill rate did not fall below a lower limit after the stocking request and before the product was stocked, and the reference value at the time of a past stocking request in which the fill rate did not fall below the lower limit. 2. The notification device described in 1, wherein the threshold setting means sets the threshold to the maximum, minimum, average, mode, or median of multiple reference values ​​at the time of multiple past stocking requests in which the fill rate did not fall below the lower limit after the stocking request and before the product was stocked. 3. 3. The notification device according to 1, wherein the threshold setting means sets the threshold to the maximum, minimum, average, mode or median of multiple reference values ​​from multiple past stockings performed when the fulfillment rate did not fall below the lower limit. 4. The notification device according to 1, wherein the reference value is the fulfillment rate, the reference value acquisition means repeatedly acquires the reference value every unit time, the notification means notifies the stocking request when the latest reference value falls below the threshold, and the threshold setting means updates the threshold to the first reference value if the fulfillment rate does not fall below the lower limit after the stocking request based on a first reference value and before stocking is performed. The reference value is the cumulative sales volume, the reference value acquisition means repeatedly acquires the reference value every unit time, the notification means notifies the stocking request when the latest reference value exceeds the threshold, and the threshold setting means updates the threshold to the first reference value if the fulfillment rate does not fall below the lower limit after the stocking request based on the first reference value and before stocking is performed.6. The notification device according to 4 or 5, wherein the threshold setting means, if the fulfillment rate falls below the lower limit after the stocking request based on the first reference value and before stocking is performed, updates the threshold to the reference value acquired the unit time before the timing at which the first reference value was acquired. 7. The notification device according to any of 1 to 6, wherein the reference value acquisition means executes a process of calculating the fulfillment rate based on an image taken of the display shelf, or a process of calculating the cumulative number of items sold based on information registered in a POS (point of sales) system. 8. The notification device according to 7, wherein the reference value acquisition means identifies the timing at which stocking was performed based on a change over time in the fulfillment rate calculated based on the image. 9. A notification method in which one or more computers acquire a reference value indicating at least one of the fill rate of a target product on a display shelf and the cumulative number of units sold of the target product since the time the product was stocked, notify a stocking request if the relationship between the reference value and a threshold value satisfies a notification condition, and set the threshold value based on at least one of the reference value at the time of a past stocking request in which the fill rate did not fall below the lower limit after the stocking request and before the product was stocked, and the reference value at the time of a past stocking in which the fill rate did not fall below the lower limit. 10. A recording medium storing a program that causes a computer to function as: a reference value acquisition means that acquires a reference value indicating at least one of the fill rate of a target product on a display shelf and the cumulative number of units sold of the target product from the time the product was stocked; a notification means that notifies of a stocking request when the relationship between the reference value and a threshold value satisfies a notification condition; and a threshold setting means that sets the threshold value based on at least one of the reference value at the time of a past stocking request when the fill rate did not fall below a lower limit after the stocking request and before the product was stocked, and the reference value at the time of a past stocking when the fill rate did not fall below the lower limit.

[0164] Some or all of Supplements 2 to 8 that are dependent on the notification device of Supplement 1 described above may also be dependent on the notification method of Supplement 9 and the recording medium of Supplement 10 in the same dependent relationship as Supplement 1 and Supplements 2 to 8. Furthermore, within the scope of each of the above-described embodiments, some or all of the configurations described as Supplements can be realized in various hardware, software, various recording means for recording software, or systems.

[0165] 10 Notification device 11 Reference value acquisition unit 12 Notification unit 13 Threshold value setting unit 1A Processor 2A Memory 3A Input / output I / F 4A Peripheral circuit 5A Bus

Claims

1. A reference value acquisition means that acquires a reference value indicating at least one of the sufficiency rate of the target product on the display shelf and the cumulative number of units of the target product sold since the time of stocking, A notification means that notifies a product delivery request when the relationship between the aforementioned reference value and the threshold satisfies the notification conditions, A threshold setting means for setting the threshold based on at least one of the reference value at a past stocking request in which the sufficiency rate did not fall below the lower limit after the stocking request and before stocking was performed, and the reference value at a past stocking in which the sufficiency rate did not fall below the lower limit. A notification device having the following features.

2. The threshold setting means is The notification device according to claim 1, wherein the maximum, minimum, average, mode, or median of multiple reference values ​​from multiple past product delivery requests, during which the sufficiency rate did not fall below the lower limit after the product delivery request and before the product delivery was performed, is set as the threshold.

3. The threshold setting means is The notification device according to claim 1, wherein the maximum, minimum, average, mode, or median of multiple reference values ​​from multiple past stockings performed under conditions where the sufficiency rate does not fall below the lower limit is set as the threshold.

4. The aforementioned reference value is the satisfaction rate, The aforementioned reference value acquisition means is The aforementioned reference value is repeatedly obtained at each unit of time, The notification means is, When the latest reference value falls below the threshold, the product delivery request is notified. The threshold setting means is The notification device according to claim 1, wherein if the sufficiency rate does not fall below the lower limit after the product issuance request based on the first reference value and before the product is issued, the threshold is updated to the first reference value.

5. The aforementioned reference value is the cumulative number of units sold. The aforementioned reference value acquisition means is The aforementioned reference value is repeatedly obtained at each unit of time, The notification means is, The latest reference value exceeds the threshold, and the product delivery request is notified. The threshold setting means is The notification device according to claim 1, wherein if the sufficiency rate does not fall below the lower limit after the product issuance request based on the first reference value and before the product is issued, the threshold is updated to the first reference value.

6. The threshold setting means is The notification device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein if the sufficiency rate falls below the lower limit after the product issuance request based on the first reference value and before the product is issued, the threshold is updated to the reference value obtained a unit time before the timing at which the first reference value was obtained.

7. The aforementioned reference value acquisition means is A process to calculate the sufficiency rate based on an image of the aforementioned display shelf, or The notification device according to claim 1, which performs a process to calculate the cumulative number of units sold based on information registered in a POS (point of sales) system.

8. The aforementioned reference value acquisition means is The notification device according to claim 7, which identifies the timing at which products were stocked based on the time change of the sufficiency rate calculated based on the aforementioned image.

9. One or more computers, Obtain a reference value that indicates at least one of the following: the sufficiency rate of the target product on the display shelf and the cumulative number of units of the target product sold since the time of stocking. If the relationship between the aforementioned reference value and the threshold satisfies the notification conditions, a product delivery request will be notified. A notification method for setting the threshold based on at least one of the reference values ​​from past stocking requests in which the sufficiency rate did not fall below the lower limit after the stocking request and before stocking was performed, and the reference values ​​from past stockings in which the sufficiency rate did not fall below the lower limit.

10. Computers, A reference value acquisition means for acquiring a reference value that indicates at least one of the sufficiency rate of the target product on the display shelf and the cumulative number of units of the target product sold since the time of stocking. If the relationship between the aforementioned reference value and the threshold satisfies the notification conditions, a notification means will notify the product stocking request. A threshold setting means that sets the threshold based on at least one of the reference value at a past stocking request in which the sufficiency rate did not fall below the lower limit after the stocking request and before stocking was performed, and the reference value at a past stocking in which the sufficiency rate did not fall below the lower limit. A program that makes it function as such.