Location identification device, location identification method, and recording medium

Abstract

A location identification device according to the present invention comprises a reading unit, a control unit, and an output unit. The reading unit instructs an RFID reader installed in a prescribed space to read an RFID tag on an article. An identification unit identifies the area in which the article is located on the basis of the reading area of an antenna that, of a plurality of antennas connected to the RFID reader, has read the RFID tag. The control unit controls the reading area of an antenna under control. The output unit outputs that the article is in the identified area. The identification unit newly identifies the area in which the article is located on the basis of the identified area and the reading area of the antenna under control. The output unit outputs that the article is in the newly identified area.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a positioning device and the like.

Background Art

[0002] A technique using an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag to identify the position of an article is known. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a technique for identifying an arrangement area in which each article is arranged based on which antenna can read tag information.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, even if an article has an RFID tag attached thereto, it is still difficult to find the article in a large space such as a warehouse.

[0005] An example of an object of the present disclosure is to provide a positioning device and the like that facilitate the search for an article.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The positioning device according to one aspect of the present disclosure reading means for giving a reading instruction to read an RFID tag attached to an article to an RFID reader installed in a predetermined space; specifying means for specifying an area where the article is arranged based on a reading area of the antenna that has read the RFID tag among a plurality of antennas connected to the RFID reader; control means for controlling a reading area of a control target antenna; An output means that outputs that there is an item in the identified area, Equipped with, The identification means newly identifies the area in which the article is located based on the identified area and the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna, The output means outputs that the item is located in the newly identified area.

[0007] A location identification method in one aspect of this disclosure is: Computers A reading command is issued to the RFID reader installed in a designated space to read the RFID tag attached to the item. Based on the reading area of ​​the antenna that was able to read the RFID tag from among the multiple antennas connected to the RFID reader, the area where the item is located is identified. Control the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna, Output that there is an item in the identified area. Execute the process, In the aforementioned identification process, the region in which the article is located is newly identified based on the identified region and the reading region of the controlled antenna. The output process outputs that the item is located in the newly identified area.

[0008] A program in one aspect of this disclosure is for a computer, A reading command is issued to the RFID reader installed in a designated space to read the RFID tag attached to the item. Based on the reading area of ​​the antenna that was able to read the RFID tag from among the multiple antennas connected to the RFID reader, the area where the item is located is identified. Control the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna, Output that there is an item in the identified area. Execute the process, In the aforementioned identification process, the region in which the article is located is newly identified based on the identified region and the reading region of the controlled antenna. In the output process, it is output that the article is in the newly specified area.

[0009] Each program may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium.

Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to facilitate the search for articles.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011] [Figure 1] It is a first block diagram showing a configuration example of a position specifying device. [Figure 2] It is a flowchart showing an operation example of a position specifying device. [Figure 3] It is an explanatory diagram showing a connection example between a position specifying device and other devices. [Figure 4] It is an explanatory diagram showing an installation example of a plurality of antennas and a plurality of RFID readers. [Figure 5] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of one RFID reader and a plurality of antennas connected to the RFID reader. [Figure 6] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a reading area of each antenna shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 7] It is a second block diagram showing a configuration example of a position specifying device. [Figure 8] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an article tag DB. [Figure 9] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of specifying an overlapping area of the reading areas of the read antennas as an arrangement area. [Figure 10] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of specifying, as an arrangement area, an area obtained by excluding the reading area of an antenna that could not be read from the reading area of the read antennas. [Figure 11] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of specifying, as an arrangement area, an area obtained by excluding the reading area of an antenna that could not be read from the overlapping area of the read antennas. [Figure 12A]This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of controlling the output strength of the controlled antenna, which is the antenna whose readings were obtained. [Figure 12B] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a newly identified placement area. [Figure 13A] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of increasing the size of the reading area for an antenna that could not be read. [Figure 13B] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a newly identified placement area. [Figure 14] This is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the location tracking device (Example 1). [Figure 15A] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of antenna movement that can be detected. [Figure 15B] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a newly identified placement area. [Figure 16A] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of moving an antenna that could not be read. [Figure 16B] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a newly identified placement area. [Figure 17] This is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the location tracking device, part 2. [Figure 18] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of moving a drone into a deployment area. [Figure 19] This flowchart shows an example of the operation of a location tracking device. [Figure 20] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example where a frame representing the placement area is superimposed on a map of a given space. [Figure 21] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an item tag's LED lighting up. [Figure 22] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a computer hardware configuration. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] Embodiments of a location-finding device, location-finding method, program, and non-temporary recording medium for recording the program according to this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. These embodiments are not intended to limit the disclosed technology.

[0013] In this embodiment, we will use luggage as an example of an article. For example, an item that can carry one or more items, such as a cart with a basket, may be considered an article. For example, specifying the area where the articles are placed may be interpreted as specifying the area where the cart is placed. In each embodiment, the size of the articles, the units of the articles, etc., are not particularly limited.

[0014] In each embodiment, the predetermined space is, for example, a space where articles are placed, and is not particularly limited. For example, the predetermined space could be a warehouse.

[0015] (First Embodiment) Figure 1 is a first block diagram showing one example configuration of a location identification device. The location identification device 10 comprises a reading unit 102, a identification unit 104, a control unit 106, and an output unit 108.

[0016] The reading unit 102 issues a reading instruction to an RFID reader installed in a predetermined space, instructing it to read the RFID tag attached to the item.

[0017] For example, the location identification device 10 may be equipped with an RFID reader, or the location identification device 10 may be connected to the RFID reader via a communication network or the like. The reading unit 102 transmits an RF to the RFID reader. ID The system issues a command to read the information stored in the tag. Examples of how RFID tags are attached to items include the RFID tag being affixed to the item, or the RFID tag being included in a tag attached to the item with a string or the like, such as a price tag. Thus, there are no particular limitations on how RFID tags are attached to items. RFID tags attached to items are also called item tags.

[0018] For example, an item tag may store item identification information to identify an item. Alternatively, an item tag may store tag identification information to identify an item tag. The RFID reader reads the information stored in the item tag via an antenna connected to the RFID reader in response to a read instruction from the reader unit 102. For example, in a predetermined space, for example, RFID Leader Multiple antennas are connected to it.

[0019] The identification unit 104 identifies the area where the item is located based on the reading area of ​​the antenna that was able to read the RFID tag from among the multiple antennas connected to the RFID reader. The area where the item is located is sometimes called the location area. The antenna reading area is the range in which the antenna can read information from the RFID tag. It is difficult to set the antenna reading area to be a perfect rectangle. That is, it is difficult to precisely divide the reading area of ​​each of the multiple antennas within a given space. For this reason, when multiple antennas are installed, the reading areas of the multiple antennas overlap.

[0020] For example, the identification unit 104 identifies the area where the reading areas of antennas that were able to read the item tag overlap as the area where the item is located. Alternatively, for example, the identification unit 104 identifies the area where the item is located by excluding the reading areas of antennas that were not able to read the item tag from the reading areas of antennas that were able to read the item tag.

[0021] The identification unit 104 may combine the process of identifying overlapping areas of the readable antenna reading areas and the process of identifying areas obtained by excluding the readable antenna reading areas from the readable antenna reading areas. The order of these processes performed by the identification unit 104 is not particularly limited. As a specific example of the combined processes, the identification unit 104 may identify the area obtained by excluding the readable antenna reading areas from the areas where the item tag was not read as the area where the item tag was placed.

[0022] The control unit 106 controls the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna based on the area identified by the identification unit 104. For example, the controlled antenna may be at least one of a plurality of antennas connected to an RFID reader, or it may be a different antenna from these antennas. For example, the different antenna may be an antenna provided by an RFID reader mounted on a mobile device. Examples of mobile devices include AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) and drones.

[0023] As an example of control, the control unit 106 may control the size of the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna. For example, the control unit 106 changes the size of the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna by controlling the output intensity of the controlled antenna. A specific example of changing the size will be described in the second embodiment.

[0024] As another example of control, the control unit 106 may control the position of the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna. For example, the control unit 106 changes the position of the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna by moving the controlled antenna, which is mounted on a rail. Alternatively, for example, the control unit 106 changes the position of the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna by moving a mobile device that houses the controlled antenna. Specific examples of position changes will be described in the second embodiment.

[0025] The identification unit 104 newly identifies the area where the item is located based on the identified area and the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna. It is assumed that the reading unit 102 is issuing a reading instruction to the controlled antenna.

[0026] For example, the identification unit 104 uses the reading status of the controlled antenna to newly identify an area where an item is located, based on the identified area and the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna. For example, if the controlled antenna can read the item tag, the identification unit 104 newly identifies the area where the item is located as the area where the item is located, which overlaps with the identified area and the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna. For example, if the controlled antenna cannot read the item tag, the identification unit 104 newly identifies the area where the item is located as the area obtained by excluding the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna from the identified area.

[0027] The output unit 108 outputs that there is an item in the area identified by the identification unit 104. The output method is not particularly limited. For example, output methods by the output unit 108 include audio output, screen display, and registration in a database. The output unit 108 may register in the database that there is an item in the area identified by the identification unit 104. The output unit 108 may register in the database location information representing the location of the area identified by the identification unit 104 as the item's location information. The method of representing the location information is not particularly limited. The location information may be location information representing a position such as coordinate values ​​in a specific predetermined space. The location information may also be identification information that identifies a passage near the area identified by the identification unit 104, or identification information that identifies a shelf located at the location of the area identified by the identification unit 104. For example, the output unit 108 outputs to the user's terminal device that there is an item in the area identified by the identification unit 104.

[0028] (flowchart) Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the location identification device 10. The reading unit 102 issues a reading instruction to the RFID reader to read the item tag (step S101). The identification unit 104 identifies the location area of ​​the item (step S102). The control unit 106 controls the reading area of ​​the antenna to be controlled (step S103).

[0029] The identification unit 104 identifies a new location area where the item is located based on the identified location area and the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna (step S104). The output unit 108 outputs that the item is located in the identified location area (step S105). The location identification device 10 then completes the series of processes shown in Figure 2.

[0030] For example, it is time-consuming for a worker to use a handheld terminal equipped with an RFID reader to search for items with RFID tags in a very large space. Therefore, it is expected that multiple antennas will be installed to search for items. However, if the given space is large, a large number of antennas will be required. A large number of antennas increases the cost of the antennas. For example, if multiple antennas are fixed in place, narrowing the reading area of ​​each antenna will require a large number of antennas. On the other hand, if the given space is large but the number of antennas is small, it is expected that the reading area of ​​each antenna will be widened. However, if the area where the identified items are located is too large, it will still be difficult to find the items.

[0031] For example, the positioning device 10 identifies the area where an item is located based on the reading status of the reading areas of multiple antennas, and controls the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna based on the identified area. Then, the positioning device 10 newly identifies the area where an item is located based on the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna and the identified area. In this way, the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna can be dynamically changed, and the area where an item is located can be narrowed down. Therefore, it is possible to make it easier to identify the area where an item is located. In addition, it is possible to reduce the number of antennas in a large space.

[0032] (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the second embodiment, an example of searching for an area where an item specified by the user is located will be described in detail. To the extent that the description of the second embodiment does not become unclear, explanations that overlap with the above description will be omitted.

[0033] Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of connection between a location tracking device and other devices. The location tracking device 20 may be connected to an RFID reader 22 via a communication network. The RFID reader 22 may be connected to multiple antennas 21. When the location tracking device 20 sends a read command to the RFID reader 22, the RFID reader 22 can output radio waves for reading to the multiple antennas 21.

[0034] Here, the RFID reader 22 may have an antenna 21. For example, the number of antennas 21 may be n+1, which is the sum of the antenna 21 provided by the RFID reader 22 and n antennas 21 connected to the RFID reader 22. n is an integer of 1 or more. Also, for example, the location identification device 20 may control the output strength of the antennas 21 connected to the RFID reader 22 via the RFID reader 22. Note that if there are multiple RFID readers 22... dea That's fine.

[0035] For example, multiple antennas 21 may be installed on the ceiling, walls, floor, or shelves installed in a given space.

[0036] At least some of the multiple antennas 21 may be fixed in place. Alternatively, at least some of the multiple antennas 21 may be installed in a movable manner. Rails may be installed in a predetermined space, and the multiple antennas 21 may be installed on the rails in a movable manner. For example, rails may be installed on the ceiling of the predetermined space, or rails may be installed on shelves. The positioning device 20 may be able to control the movement of the multiple antennas 21.

[0037] The location tracking device 20 may be connected to the user's terminal device 23 via a communication network. The user may be, for example, a person looking for an item. Other users may be, for example, workers or warehouse managers in a warehouse. The type of terminal device 23 is not particularly limited and may include a PC (Personal Computer), a smartphone, or a tablet device. The terminal device 23 may have an application program pre-installed that can transmit information to the location tracking device 20 and output information from the location tracking device 20. Alternatively, the terminal device 23 may access a website connected to the location tracking device 20 and send and receive information with the location tracking device 20 via the website.

[0038] The location tracking device 20 is connected to the drone 24 via a communication network. For example, the drone 24 is equipped with an RFID reader 22 having an antenna 21. The location tracking device 20 may control the movement of the drone 24. Alternatively, the location tracking device 20 may control reading instructions to the RFID reader 22 mounted on the drone 24.

[0039] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the installation of multiple antennas 21 and multiple RFID readers 22. In Figure 4, the designated space is exemplified by a large warehouse. For example, goods are placed in the warehouse. For example, multiple RFID readers 22 and multiple antennas 21 are installed on approximately the same plane, such as the ceiling.

[0040] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a single RFID reader 22 and multiple antennas 21 connected to the RFID reader 22. In Figure 5, the RFID reader 22 is connected to multiple antennas 21-1 to 21-4.

[0041] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the reading area 31 of each antenna 21 shown in Figure 5. When multiple antennas are not specifically identified, they are referred to as "antenna 21". As shown in Figure 6, the reading areas 31 of multiple antennas 21 overlap.

[0042] In Figure 6, for example, the reading area 31-1 of antenna 21-1, the reading area 31-2 of antenna 21-2, the reading area 31-3 of antenna 21-3, and the reading area 31-4 of antenna 21-4 overlap with each other.

[0043] Here, the reading area 31 of each antenna 21 can be identified by the position of the antenna 21 and the output strength of the antenna 21. If the antennas 21 are in a fixed position and their output strength is fixed, the reading area 31 of each antenna 21 may be stored separately. Alternatively, for example, the size of the reading area 31 of each antenna 21 according to its output strength may be stored in advance, and the position identification device 20 can identify the reading area 31 of each antenna 21 based on its position and output strength.

[0044] Figure 7 is a second block diagram showing one example configuration of the location identification device 20. The location identification device 20 comprises a reception unit 201, a reading unit 202, a identification unit 204, a control unit 206, an output unit 208, and a determination unit 210.

[0045] For example, the reading unit 202 may have the functions of the reading unit 102 shown in Figure 1 as its basic function. For example, the identification unit 204 may have the functions of the identification unit 104 shown in Figure 1 as its basic function. The control unit 206 may have the functions of the control unit 106 shown in Figure 1 as its basic function. The output unit 208 may have the functions of the output unit 108 shown in Figure 1 as its basic function.

[0046] The location identification device 20 may have, for example, an item tag database 2000. The item tag database 2000 is, for example, information for managing item tags.

[0047] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the item tag DB2000. For example, the item tag DB2000 stores information for associating item tags with items. In Figure 8, for example, the item tag DB2000 stores, for each item tag, tag identification information that identifies the item tag and item identification information that identifies the item, in association with each item tag. In Figure 8, the item tag ID (Identifier) ​​is given as an example of the tag identification information. In Figure 8, the item ID is given as an example of the item identification information. In Figure 8, the tag identified by tag ID "T01" is attached to the item identified by item ID "AAA".

[0048] For example, the location tracking device 20 may have an item database for managing items, and the item database may manage item information for each item. In this case, the item database may manage items by item ID. This links the item database and the item tag database 2000. For example, if the item is a product, the item information may include the product name and price. For example, if the item is a package to be delivered, the package information may include the item name and destination of the package. Note that the item tag database 2000 and the item database may be a single database.

[0049] Next, we will explain each functional part. Here, we will explain using an example in which the location identification device 20 searches for a specified item.

[0050] First, the reception unit 201 receives the designation of the item to be searched. The method of reception is not particularly limited and can be via an input device, such as screen input or voice input. For example, the reception unit 201 receives the designation of the item to be searched through the user's operation on the terminal device 23.

[0051] For example, terminal device 23 may display a screen containing information that allows the user to specify an item, and the user may specify an item by operating on the screen. The information that allows the user to specify an item is not particularly limited and may include the name of the item, the characteristics of the item, information that identifies the item such as an image of the item, and a tag ID that identifies a tag attached to the item. For example, terminal device 23 may display a product name, the name of the package, etc., in a selectable format, and when the user selects a product name displayed on the screen, the reception unit 201 accepts the product with the selected product name as the item to be searched. Alternatively, for example, terminal device 23 may display a screen containing an input field that allows the user to specify an item, and the user enters information that allows the user to specify an item, such as the name of the item, into the input field on the screen. The reception unit 201 then accepts the item identified by the information that allows the user to specify an item entered into the input field as the item to be searched.

[0052] The reading unit 202 issues a reading instruction to the RFID reader 22, which is installed in a predetermined space, to read the item tag.

[0053] The RFID reader 22 transmits the reading results from each antenna 21 to the location identification device 20.

[0054] The identification unit 204 identifies the area where the item is located based on the reading area 31 of the antenna 21 that was able to read the item tag from among the multiple antennas 21 connected to the RFID reader 22. For example, if the item tag stores an item tag ID, the antenna 21 that was able to read the item tag ID of the item tag attached to the specified item to be searched is the antenna 21 that was able to read the item tag ID. That is, for example, if the item tag ID contained in the information read from the antenna 21 matches the item tag ID of the item tag attached to the item to be searched, the identification unit 204 considers that antenna 21 to be an antenna that was able to read the item. On the other hand, if the item tag ID contained in the information read from the antenna 21 does not match the item tag ID of the item tag attached to the item to be searched, the identification unit 204 considers that antenna 21 to be an antenna that was unable to read the item.

[0055] While the example given illustrates that an item tag stores an item tag ID, the information stored by an item tag is not particularly limited, as long as the item being searched can be identified using an item database or item tag database. For example, an item tag may store item identification information that identifies the item.

[0056] As described in the first embodiment, there are various methods by which the identification unit 204 identifies the area where an item is placed based on the reading area 31 of the antenna 21.

[0057] For example, if multiple antennas 21 are able to read an item tag, the identification unit 204 identifies the area where the reading areas 31 of the antennas 21 that were able to read the item tag overlap as the area where the item is located.

[0058] Figure 9 shows the read antenna 2 1 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of identifying an overlapping area of ​​the reading area 31 as a placement area. For example, in Figure 9, antennas 21-1, 21-3, and 21-4 can read the item tag, but antenna 21-2 cannot. Therefore, the identification unit 204 identifies the placement area 41, which is the overlapping area of ​​the reading area 31-1 of antenna 21-1, the reading area 31-3 of antenna 21-3, and the reading area 31-4 of antenna 21-4.

[0059] Furthermore, the identification unit 204 may identify the area obtained by excluding the reading area 31 of the antenna 21 that could not be read from the reading area 31 of the antenna 21 that could be read as the placement area.

[0060] Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of identifying a placement area as the area obtained by excluding the reading area 31 of antenna 21 that could not be read from the reading area 31 of antenna 21 that could be read. In Figure 10, if antenna 21-3 can be read, but antennas 21-1, 21-2, and 21-4 cannot be read, the identification unit 204 identifies the area obtained by excluding the reading area 31-1 of antenna 21-3, the reading area 31-2 of antenna 21-2, and the reading area 31-4 of antenna 21-4 from the reading area 31-3 of antenna 21-3 as the placement area 42.

[0061] Alternatively, the identification unit 204 may identify the area where the item is located by excluding the reading area 31 of the antenna 21 that could not read the item tag from the area where the reading area 31 of the antenna 21 that could read the item tag overlaps.

[0062] Figure 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of identifying a placement area by excluding the reading area 31 of antenna 21 that could not be read from the overlapping area of ​​antenna 21 that could be read. For example, in Figure 9, antennas 21-1, 21-3, and 21-4 can read the item tag, but antenna 21-2 cannot. Therefore, the identification unit 204 identifies a placement area 43 by excluding the reading area 31-2 of antenna 21-2 from the overlapping area of ​​the reading area 31-1 of antenna 21-1, the reading area 31-3 of antenna 21-3, and the reading area 31-4 of antenna 21-4.

[0063] The control unit 206 controls the reading area 31 of the antenna to be controlled based on the arrangement area identified by the identification unit 204. For example, the antenna to be controlled may be at least one of the multiple antennas 21 connected to the RFID reader 22, or it may be an antenna 21 different from these antennas 21.

[0064] The control unit 206 may control the reading area 31 of the antenna to be controlled if the size of the placement area is large. In this case, the determination unit 210 may determine whether the size of the placement area identified by the identification unit 204 is greater than or equal to a predetermined size. The predetermined size is not particularly limited, for example, a size that makes it easy for the user to find items. The predetermined size may be specified by the user. If the size of the placement area identified by the identification unit 204 is greater than or equal to the predetermined size, the control unit 206 may control the reading area 31 of the antenna to be controlled. On the other hand, if the size of the placement area identified by the identification unit 204 is not greater than or equal to the predetermined size, the output unit 208 may output the placement area. For example, the control unit 206 may repeat the control of the reading area 31 of the antenna to be controlled until the size of the placement area becomes less than the predetermined size.

[0065] Furthermore, as described in the first embodiment, examples of the control unit 206 controlling the reading area 31 of the controlled antenna include controlling the output intensity of the controlled antenna and controlling the position of the controlled antenna.

[0066] <Example of controlling the output strength of antenna 21> First, we will describe an example in which the control unit 206 controls the output strength of the controlled antenna.

[0067] The controlled antenna may be at least one of the multiple antennas 21 connected to the RFID reader 22 that has been read. For example, if there are multiple antennas 21 that have been read, the controlled antenna may be at least some of the multiple antennas 21 that have been read.

[0068] For example, if the antenna to be controlled is antenna 21, the control unit 206 controls the antenna to be controlled in such a way that it weakens the output strength of the antenna to be controlled. The reading area 31 of the antenna to be controlled becomes smaller.

[0069] Then, the identification unit 204 identifies a new placement area based on the identified placement area and the reading area 31 of the controlled antenna. If the controlled antenna can read the item tag after control, the identification unit 204 identifies the area where the already identified placement area and the reading area 31 of the controlled antenna overlap as the new placement area. If the controlled antenna cannot read the item tag after control, the identification unit 204 identifies the area obtained by excluding the reading area 31 of the controlled antenna from the already identified placement area as the new placement area.

[0070] For example, Figure 10 shows an example where antenna 21-3 was able to read information from an item tag. Figure 12A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of controlling the output strength of the controlled antenna, which is antenna 21 that was able to read the information. In Figure 12A, the controlled antenna is antenna 21-3 that was able to read the information. The control unit 206 weakens the output strength of antenna 21-3 that was able to read the information. This allows the control unit 206 to reduce the size of the reading area 31 of antenna 21-3.

[0071] Figure 12B is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a newly identified placement area. For example, Figure 12B shows an example where the antenna 21-3 after control has been read. The identification unit 204 identifies the overlapping area between the previously identified placement area 42 and the antenna 21-3 reading area 31 as a new placement area 43. In this way, the area where the item is placed can be narrowed down.

[0072] Next, for example, if the controlled antenna 21 could not read the tag, the control unit 206 controls the controlled antenna to increase its output strength. The reading area 31 of the controlled antenna becomes larger. The identification unit 204 identifies a new placement area based on the placement area already identified and the reading area 31 of the controlled antenna. The specific processing method by which the identification unit 204 identifies a new placement area may be the same as in the case where the controlled antenna 21 was able to read the tag. For example, if the controlled antenna after control was able to read the item tag, the identification unit 204 identifies the area where the placement area already identified by the identification unit 204 and the reading area 31 of the controlled antenna overlap as a new placement area. If the controlled antenna after control was unable to read the item tag, the identification unit 204 identifies the area obtained by excluding the reading area 31 of the controlled antenna from the placement area already identified by the identification unit 204 as a new placement area.

[0073] Here, if there are multiple antennas 21 that could not be read, there is no particular limitation on which of the multiple unreadable antennas 21 will be designated as the controlled antenna. For example, the controlled antenna may be one of the unreadable antennas 21 selected according to the degree of overlap with the reading area 31 of the readable antenna 21. Here, if multiple antennas 21 are installed on substantially the same plane, such as a ceiling, the degree of overlap refers to the degree of overlap of the surfaces of the reading areas. If multiple antennas 21 are installed on substantially the same plane, such as a ceiling, the degree of overlap may be expressed by the area of ​​the surfaces where the reading areas overlap, and there is no particular limitation on how the degree of overlap is expressed. For example, the control unit 206 may designate the antenna 21 with the greatest degree of overlap with the reading area 31 of the readable antenna 21 as the controlled antenna. For example, the control unit 206 may designate the antenna 21 with the greatest degree of overlap as the controlled antenna. For example, the control unit 206 may designate a predetermined number of antennas 21 as controlled antennas in descending order of degree of overlap. The predetermined number may be specified by the user, may vary depending on the size of the specified placement area, and is not particularly limited. For example, the predetermined number may be larger the larger the size of the specified placement area. For example, the control unit 206 may designate antennas 21 with an overlap degree of a predetermined degree or higher as the antennas to be controlled. For example, the control unit 206 may designate a predetermined number of antennas 21 with an overlap degree of a predetermined degree or higher as the antennas to be controlled.

[0074] Figure 10 shows an example where antenna 21-3 was able to read the item tag, while antennas 21-1, 21-2, and 21-4 were unable to read it. For example, antennas 21-1 and 21-4 have a high degree of overlap with the reading area 31 of antenna 21-3. Here, we will explain using an example where antenna 21-4 is the controlled antenna.

[0075] Figure 13A is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of increasing the size of the reading area 31 of antenna 21 that could not be read. For example, the control unit 206 increases the output intensity of the reading area 31 of antenna 21-4 that could not be read. This allows the control unit 206 to increase the size of the reading area 31 of antenna 21-4.

[0076] Figure 13B is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example where a new placement area has been identified. For example, Figure 13B shows an example where the antenna 21-4 could not be read after control. The identification unit 204 identifies a new placement area 45 by excluding the antenna 21-4 reading area 31-4 from the previously identified placement area 42. In this way, the area where the item is placed can be narrowed down.

[0077] Here, the control unit 206 may weaken the output strength of the antennas 21 that were read, while strengthening the output strength of the antennas 21 that could not be read. In other words, the control unit 206 may combine the example shown in Figure 12A and the example shown in Figure 13A.

[0078] Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the location tracking device 20. The reception unit 201 receives the designation of the item to be searched (step S201). The reading unit 202 reads the item tag attached to the designated item to be searched (step S202). In step S202, the reading unit 202 instructs the RFID reader 22 to read the item tag.

[0079] Next, the identification unit 204 identifies the location area of ​​the item to be searched based on the reading area 31 of the antenna 21 that was read from among the multiple antennas 21 connected to the RFID reader 22 (step S203).

[0080] The determination unit 210 determines whether the size of the placement area identified by the identification unit 204 is greater than or equal to a predetermined size (step S204). If the size of the placement area identified by the identification unit 204 is greater than or equal to a predetermined size (step S204: Yes), the control unit 206 controls the output strength of the antenna to be controlled (step S205).

[0081] The identification unit 204 identifies the location area of ​​the item to be searched based on the location area identified by the identification unit 204 and the reading area 31 of the controlled antenna after control (step S206). Then, the location identification device 20 returns to step S204.

[0082] If the size of the placement area identified by the identification unit 204 is not greater than or equal to a predetermined size (step S204: No), the output unit 208 outputs that there is an item in the placement area (step S207). Then, the location identification device 20 completes the series of processes shown in Figure 14.

[0083] <Example of position control for antenna 21> This section describes an example in which the controlled antenna is movable, and the control unit 206 controls the position of the controlled antenna.

[0084] The antenna to be controlled may be at least one of the multiple antennas 21 connected to the RFID reader 22 that has been read. For example, if there are multiple antennas 21 that have been read, the control unit 206 will designate at least some of the multiple antennas 21 that have been read as the antennas to be controlled.

[0085] The controlled antenna is one of the antennas 21 that has been read from among the multiple antennas 21, and the control unit 206 moves the controlled antenna away from the other antennas 21 among the multiple antennas 21. The position of the reading area 31 of the controlled antenna moves.

[0086] Then, the identification unit 204 identifies a new placement area based on the previously identified placement area and the reading area 31 of the controlled antenna. If the moved controlled antenna can read the item tag, the identification unit 204 identifies the area where the previously identified placement area and the reading area 31 of the controlled antenna overlap as the new placement area. If the moved controlled antenna cannot read the item tag, the identification unit 204 identifies the area obtained by excluding the reading area 31 of the controlled antenna from the previously identified placement area as the new placement area.

[0087] For example, Figure 10 shows an example where antenna 21-3 was able to read the item tag, but antennas 21-1, 21-2, and 21-4 were unable to read the item tag. Figure 15A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of moving the antenna 21 that was able to read the item tag. In Figure 15A, the control unit 206 moves antenna 21-3 away from at least some of the antennas 21 that were unable to read the item tag. For example, in Figure 15A, antenna 21-3 is moved to a position away from antennas 21-4 and 21-2.

[0088] The control unit 206 may move antenna 21-3 away from all antennas 21 that could not be read. The range in which antenna 21 can move varies depending on the installation conditions of rails, etc., so there are no particular limitations on the examples of how antenna 21 can be moved.

[0089] Figure 15B is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a newly identified placement area. For example, Figure 15B shows an example where the antenna 21-3 was read after movement. The identification unit 204 identifies the overlapping area between the previously identified placement area 42 and the antenna 21-3 reading area 31-3 as a new placement area 46. In this way, the area where the item is placed can be narrowed down.

[0090] Furthermore, the controlled antenna may be at least one of the multiple antennas 21 that could not be read. The control unit 206 may move the controlled antenna closer to the antenna 21 that was read. The position of the reading area 31 of the controlled antenna moves.

[0091] The control unit 206 may also move the antenna to be controlled so that it approaches the placement area identified by the identification unit 204.

[0092] The identification unit 204 identifies a new placement area based on the previously identified placement area and the reading area 31 of the controlled antenna after movement. The specific processing method for identifying the new placement area by the identification unit 204 may be the same as in the example where the controlled antenna is the antenna 21 that was able to read the tag. For example, if the controlled antenna after movement was able to read the item tag, the identification unit 204 identifies the area where the previously identified placement area and the reading area 31 of the controlled antenna overlap as the new placement area. If the controlled antenna after control was unable to read the item tag, the identification unit 204 identifies the area obtained by excluding the reading area 31 of the controlled antenna from the previously identified placement area as the new placement area.

[0093] Here, if there are multiple antennas 21 that could not be read, there is no particular limitation on which of the multiple unreadable antennas 21 will be designated as the controlled antenna. For example, the control unit 206 may designate the antenna 21 with the greatest degree of overlap with the readable antennas 21 in the reading area 31 as the controlled antenna. For example, the control unit 206 may designate the antenna 21 with the greatest degree of overlap as the controlled antenna. For example, the control unit 206 may designate a predetermined number of antennas 21 as controlled antennas in descending order of degree of overlap. The predetermined number may be specified by the user, may vary depending on the size of the specified placement area, and is not particularly limited. For example, the predetermined number may be greater the larger the size of the specified placement area. For example, the control unit 206 may designate any of the antennas 21 with a degree of overlap equal to or greater than a predetermined degree as the controlled antenna. For example, the control unit 206 may designate a predetermined number of antennas 21 with a degree of overlap equal to or greater than a predetermined degree as the controlled antennas.

[0094] For example, Figure 10 shows an example where antenna 21-3 was able to read the item tag, but antennas 21-1, 21-2, and 21-4 were unable to read it. Figure 16A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of moving the antenna 21 that was unable to read the item tag. An example in which antenna 21-4 is the controlled antenna will be explained.

[0095] Next, for example, the control unit 206 moves antenna 21-4 so that it approaches antenna 21-3. Or, for example, the control unit 206 moves antenna 21-4 so that it approaches the placement area 42.

[0096] Figure 16B is an explanatory diagram showing an example where a new placement area has been identified. For example, Figure 16B shows an example where the antenna 21-4 could not be read after it had moved. The identification unit 204 identifies the area obtained by excluding the reading area 31-4 of the antenna 21-4 after it had moved from the placement area 42 as a new placement area 47.

[0097] Figure 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of operation 2 of the location tracking device 20. The reception unit 201 receives the designation of the item to be searched (step S211). The reading unit 202 reads the item tag attached to the designated item to be searched (step S212). In step S212, the reading unit 202 instructs the RFID reader 22 to read the item tag.

[0098] Next, the identification unit 204 identifies the location area of ​​the item to be searched based on the reading area 31 of the antenna 21 that was read from among the multiple antennas 21 connected to the RFID reader 22 (step S213).

[0099] The determination unit 210 determines whether the size of the placement area identified by the identification unit 204 is greater than or equal to a predetermined size (step S214).

[0100] If the size of the placement area identified by the identification unit 204 is greater than or equal to a predetermined size (step S214: Yes), the control unit 206 controls the position of the antenna to be controlled (step S215).

[0101] The identification unit 204 identifies the location area of ​​the item to be searched based on the location area identified by the identification unit 204 and the reading area 31 of the controlled antenna after control (step S216). Then, the location identification device 20 returns to step S214.

[0102] If the size of the placement area identified by the identification unit 204 is not greater than or equal to a predetermined size (step S214: No), the output unit 208 outputs that there is an item in the placement area (step S217). Then, the location identification device 20 completes the series of processes shown in Figure 17.

[0103] Here, the example of controlling the position of antenna 21 and the example of controlling the output strength of antenna 21 may be used in combination. The way they are combined is not particularly limited.

[0104] As an example of a combination, the antenna whose position is controlled may be the antenna 21 that was read, while the antenna 21 that controls the output strength may be the antenna 21 that was not read.

[0105] Another example of a combination is that the antenna whose position is controlled is the unreadable antenna 21, and the antenna 21 whose output strength is controlled is the readable antenna 21. The control unit 206 may weaken the output strength of the readable antenna 21 while controlling the unreadable antenna 21 to move closer to the placement area.

[0106] <Example of controlling Drone 24> For example, as an application example, we will explain using an example where the controlled antenna is an antenna 21 mounted on a drone 24. As explained using Figure 3, the antenna 21 is provided by an RFID reader 22 mounted on the drone 24. Note that the drone 24 is just one example of a mobile device, and the following explanation may be replaced with other mobile devices such as AGVs.

[0107] The control unit 206 moves the drone 24 to the placement area identified by the identification unit 204. Specifically, the control unit 206 instructs the drone 24 to fly to the placement area.

[0108] Figure 18 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of moving the drone 24 into the deployment area. The control unit 206 may move the drone 24 so that the reading area 38 of the antenna 21 mounted on the drone 24 is within the deployment area.

[0109] Then, the identification unit 204 identifies a new placement area based on the placement area and the reading area 38 of the antenna 21 mounted on the drone 24.

[0110] Furthermore, if, for example, the output strength of the antenna 21 mounted on the drone 24 can be changed, the control unit 206 may control the output strength of the antenna 21 mounted on the drone 24 based on the placement area identified by the identification unit 204. For example, the control unit 206 may control the output strength of the antenna 21 mounted on the drone 24 so that it is smaller than the placement area.

[0111] In this way, the control unit 206 controls the output intensity of the drone 24 while moving it, enabling faster object detection. This helps to reduce the consumption of resources such as the drone 24's battery.

[0112] Figure 19 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the location tracking device 20. The reception unit 201 receives the designation of the item to be searched (step S221). The reading unit 202 reads the item tag of the designated item to be searched (step S222). In step S222, the reading unit 202 instructs the RFID reader 22 to read the item tag.

[0113] Next, the identification unit 204 identifies the location area of ​​the item to be searched based on the reading area 31 of the antenna 21 that was read from among the multiple antennas 21 connected to the RFID reader 22 (step S223).

[0114] The determination unit 210 determines whether the size of the placement area identified by the identification unit 204 is greater than or equal to a predetermined size (step S224).

[0115] If the size of the placement area identified by the identification unit 204 is greater than or equal to a predetermined size (step S224: Yes), the control unit 206 moves the drone 24 (step S225).

[0116] The identification unit 204 identifies the location area of ​​the item to be searched based on the location area identified by the identification unit 204 and the reading area 31 of the controlled antenna mounted on the drone 24 (step S226). Then, the location identification device 20 returns to step S224.

[0117] If the size of the placement area identified by the identification unit 204 is not greater than or equal to a predetermined size (step S224: No), the output unit 208 outputs that there is an item in the placement area (step S227). Then, the location identification device 20 completes the series of processes shown in Figure 19.

[0118] Furthermore, the example of controlling at least one of the multiple antennas 21 and the example of controlling the drone 24 may be used in combination. How to This is not particularly limited.

[0119] Here, an example of the output unit 208 outputting a placement area will be described. For example, the output unit 208 may highlight the placement area on a map representing a predetermined space. As an example of highlighting, the output unit 208 may superimpose a frame representing the placement area on the map representing the predetermined space. For example, the output unit 208 may output information that identifies a passage close to the placement area identified by the identification unit 204. For example, the output unit 208 may output information that identifies a shelf located in the placement area identified by the identification unit 204.

[0120] Figure 20 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which a frame representing the placement area is superimposed on a map of a predetermined space. The output unit 208 superimposes a frame representing the placement area onto the warehouse map on the terminal device 23.

[0121] The output unit 208 displays the aisle numbers closest to the placement area and the shelf numbers within the placement area. In Figure 20, the aisle numbers are A2 and A3, and the shelf number is S2. This allows workers to find items more easily.

[0122] The item tag may be an RFID tag equipped with an LED (Light Emitting Diode). For example, after the placement area is identified, the output unit 208 may output a screen that accepts an instruction to light up the LED on the item tag. When the reading unit 202 receives the instruction to light up, it issues a reading instruction to the RFID tag's item tag. As a result, the LED on the item tag lights up.

[0123] Figure 21 is an explanatory diagram showing an example where the LED on the item tag is lit. In Figure 21, when the worker presses the light button displayed on the terminal device 23, the reading unit 202 sends a reading instruction to the RFID reader 22. As a result, the LED on the item tag lights up. This makes it easier for the worker to find the item.

[0124] Figure 4 illustrates an example in which multiple antennas 21 are installed on approximately the same plane at approximately the same height, such as on a ceiling. For example, multiple antennas 21 may be installed at different positions in the height direction. For example, multiple antennas 21 may be installed at different positions in the height direction and in the length and width directions. Note that multiple antennas 21 are installed on approximately the same plane. ru In this case, the degree of overlap of the reading areas of antenna 21 is the degree of overlap of the surfaces of the reading areas of antenna 21. On the other hand, when multiple antennas 21 are installed at different positions in the height direction and in the length-and-width direction, the degree of overlap of the reading areas of antenna 21 is the degree of overlap of the three-dimensional shapes of the reading areas of antenna 21. When multiple antennas 21 are installed at different positions in the height direction and in the length-and-width direction, the degree of overlap of the reading areas of antenna 21 may be expressed by volume, and the method of expressing the degree of overlap is not particularly limited.

[0125] In the second embodiment, the positioning device 20 identifies the area where the reading areas 31 of the antenna 21 overlap as the area where the item is located. This makes it easier to narrow down the area where the item is located.

[0126] Furthermore, the location identification device 20 identifies the area where the item is located by excluding the reading areas 31 of the antennas 21 that could not be read from the reading areas 31 of the antennas 21 that could be read. This allows the location identification device 20 to narrow down the area where the item is located more easily. Therefore, it enables faster searching for the item.

[0127] For example, the antenna to be controlled is one of the antennas 21 that has been read from among multiple antennas 21. The positioning device 20 controls the antenna to be controlled in such a way that it weakens the output strength of the antenna to be controlled. This allows the positioning device 20 to narrow down the area in which the item is located to a more specific area from the already identified location area. Therefore, it enables faster item retrieval.

[0128] For example, the antenna to be controlled is one of the antennas 21 that could not be read from among multiple antennas 21. The location identification device 20 controls the antenna to be controlled in order to increase its output strength. This allows the location identification device 20 to narrow down the area where the item is located in more detail from the already identified location area. Therefore, it becomes possible to search for the item more quickly.

[0129] The antenna to be controlled is one of the antennas 21 that has been read from among the multiple antennas 21. The positioning device 20 moves the antenna to be controlled so that it is away from the other antennas 21 among the multiple antennas 21. For example, the multiple antennas 21 are installed so as to be movable on rails installed in a predetermined space. This allows the positioning device 20 to narrow down the area in which the item is placed in more detail from the already identified placement area. Therefore, it is possible to search for the item more quickly.

[0130] The antenna to be controlled is one of the antennas 21 that could not be read from among the multiple antennas 21. The positioning device 20 moves the antenna to be controlled so that it approaches the antenna 21 that was read. For example, the multiple antennas 21 are installed so as to be movable on rails installed in a predetermined space. This allows the positioning device 20 to narrow down the area where the item is placed in more detail from the already identified placement area. Therefore, it is possible to search for the item more quickly.

[0131] The location identification device 20 controls the target antenna when the size of the identified placement area is greater than or equal to a predetermined size. The location identification device 20 outputs that there is an item in the identified placement area when the size of the identified placement area is less than the predetermined size. For example, the placement area may be narrowed down to a range that is easy for a worker to find. This makes it easier for a worker to find the item.

[0132] The controlled antenna is provided on an RFID reader 22 mounted on a mobile device. The location identification device 20 moves the mobile device to the identified area and issues a reading instruction to the RFID reader 22 mounted on the mobile device. Based on the identified area and the reading area 31 of the controlled antenna, the location identification device 20 newly identifies the area where the items are placed. The mobile device is, for example, a drone 24. This makes it easy to narrow down the area where the items are placed.

[0133] The location identification device 20 displays the presence of an item in the identified location area on a map of the designated space. This makes it easier for users to confirm the location area.

[0134] The location identification device 20 outputs location information indicating the location of the identified placement area as the location information of the item. For example, the location identification device 20 registers the location information indicating the location of the identified area in a database that manages the location information of items. This makes it easier to manage the location information of items.

[0135] This concludes the description of each embodiment. Each embodiment may be combined or modified for use.

[0136] Furthermore, the location tracking devices 10 and 20 may be configured to include each functional unit and some of the information. 10, The functional components of 20 are not particularly limited. Furthermore, the position-finding devices 10 and 20 may have other functional components not shown.

[0137] Furthermore, each embodiment is not limited to the examples described above and can be modified in various ways. Also, the configuration of the location tracking devices 10 and 20 is not particularly limited. For example, the functional units of the location tracking devices 10 and 20 may be implemented by a single device. Alternatively, each functional unit or database of the location tracking devices 10 and 20 may be implemented by different devices and configured as a system. For example, each functional unit of the location tracking device 20 may be implemented by multiple servers and configured as a system. Alternatively, it may be implemented as a system having, for example, a database server containing each database and a server having each functional unit of the location tracking device 20.

[0138] Furthermore, in each embodiment, each database may include some of the aforementioned information. Also, each piece of information may include information other than the aforementioned information.

[0139] Furthermore, the process of generating information to be displayed on the terminal device 23 is performed by the output unit. 108, This may be performed by a functional unit of a location-determining device 10, 20 such as 208. Alternatively, this processing may be performed by a terminal device 23. That is, the terminal device 23 may generate screen information to be displayed on the terminal device 23 based on the data received from the location-determining devices 10, 20, and then display the screen.

[0140] (Example of computer hardware configuration) Next, we will describe an example of a hardware configuration when each device, such as the location tracking devices 10 and 20 and the terminal device 23, is implemented using a computer.

[0141] Figure 22 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a computer hardware configuration. For example, some or all of each device can be implemented using any combination of computer 80 and programs as shown in Figure 22.

[0142] Computer 80 includes, for example, a processor 801, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 802, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 803, and a storage device 804. Computer 80 also includes a communication interface 805 and an input / output interface 806. Each component is connected, for example, via a bus 807. The number of components is not particularly limited, and each component may be one or more.

[0143] The processor 801 controls the entire computer 80. The processor 801 can be, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a PPU (Physics Processing Unit), a TPU (Tensor Processing Unit), a quantum processor, or a combination thereof, and is not particularly limited.

[0144] The computer 80 also includes a ROM 802, a RAM 803, and a storage device 804. The storage device 804 may be, for example, a semiconductor memory such as flash memory, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or an SSD (Solid State Drive). For example, the storage device 804 stores OS (Operating System) programs, application programs, and programs according to the embodiment. Alternatively, the ROM 802 stores application programs and programs according to the embodiment. The RAM 803 is used as a work area for the processor 801.

[0145] The processor 801 also loads programs stored in the memory device 804, ROM 802, etc. Then, the processor 801 executes each process coded in the program. The processor 801 may also download various programs via the communication network NT. Furthermore, the processor 801 functions as part or all of the computer 80. The processor 801 may also execute processes or instructions in the illustrated flowchart based on the program.

[0146] The communication interface 805 is connected to a communication network NT, such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or WAN (Wide Area Network), via a wireless or wired communication line. The communication network NT may be composed of multiple communication networks NT. This allows the computer 80 to connect to external devices and external computers 80 via the communication network NT. The communication interface 805 manages the interface between the communication network NT and the internal workings of the computer 80. Furthermore, the communication interface 805 controls the input and output of data from external devices and external computers 80.

[0147] Furthermore, the input / output interface 806 is connected to at least one of the input device, output device, and input / output device. The connection method may be wireless or wired. Examples of input devices include keyboards, mice, and microphones. Examples of output devices include display devices, lighting devices, and audio output devices. Examples of input / output devices include touch panel displays. The input device, output device, and input / output device may be built into the computer 80 or may be external.

[0148] The hardware configuration of computer 80 is an example. Computer 80 may have some of the components shown in Figure 22. Computer 80 may have components other than those shown in Figure 22. For example, computer 80 may have a drive device. The processor 801 may read programs and data stored on a recording medium attached to the drive device into RAM 803. Examples of non-temporary tangible recording media include optical discs, flexible discs, magneto-optical discs, and USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. Also, as mentioned above, computer 80 may have input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse. Computer 80 may have output devices such as a display. Furthermore, computer 80 may have input devices, output devices, and input / output devices, respectively.

[0149] Furthermore, the computer 80 may have various sensors (not shown). The type of sensor is not particularly limited. Also, the computer 80 may be equipped with an imaging device capable of capturing images or videos.

[0150] This concludes the description of the hardware configuration of each device. Furthermore, there are various variations in how each device can be implemented. For example, each device may be implemented by any combination of different computers and programs for each component. Alternatively, the multiple components of each device may be implemented by any combination of a single computer and program.

[0151] Furthermore, some or all of the components of each device may be implemented using application-specific circuits. Alternatively, some or all of the components of each device may be implemented using general-purpose circuits such as FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays). Furthermore, some or all of the components of each device may be implemented using a combination of application-specific circuits and general-purpose circuits. These circuits may also be a single integrated circuit, or they may be divided into multiple integrated circuits. These multiple integrated circuits may be connected via a bus or the like.

[0152] Furthermore, if some or all of the components of each device are implemented by multiple computers or circuits, these computers or circuits may be centrally located or distributed.

[0153] The location determination methods described in each embodiment may be implemented by a computer such as a location determination device 10 or 20.

[0154] Each program described in each embodiment is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as an HDD, SSD, flexible disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, or USB memory. Each program is then executed by being read from the recording medium by a computer. Furthermore, each program may be distributed via a communication network NT.

[0155] Each component of the location tracking device 10 and each component of the location tracking device 20 described above may be implemented using dedicated hardware, such as a computer. Alternatively, each component may be implemented using software. Alternatively, each component may be implemented using a combination of hardware and software.

[0156] The present disclosure has been described above with reference to embodiments, but the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. Each component and detail of the present disclosure may include embodiments that apply various modifications that can be grasped by those skilled in the art within the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure may include embodiments that combine or substitute the matters described herein as appropriate. For example, matters described using a particular embodiment may be applied to other embodiments to the extent that they do not cause a contradiction. For example, although several operations are described sequentially in the form of a flowchart, the order in which they are described does not limit the order in which the operations are performed. Therefore, when implementing an embodiment, the order of the operations can be changed to the extent that it does not impair the content.

[0157] Some or all of the above embodiments may also be described as follows. However, some or all of the above embodiments are not limited to the following.

[0158] (Note 1) A reading means that issues a reading instruction to an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) reader installed in a designated space to read an RFID tag attached to an item, A means for identifying the area where the item is located, based on the reading area of ​​the antenna that was able to read the RFID tag from among a plurality of antennas connected to the RFID reader, A control means for controlling the reading area of ​​the antenna to be controlled, An output means that outputs that there is an item in the identified area, Equipped with, The identification means newly identifies the area in which the article is located based on the identified area and the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna, The output means outputs that the item is located in the newly identified area. Locating device.

[0159] (Note 2) The identifying means identifies the region in which the reading area of ​​the antenna that has been read overlaps as the region in which the article is placed. The location identification device described in Appendix 1.

[0160] (Note 3) The identification means identifies the area where the item is placed as the area obtained by excluding the reading area of ​​the antenna that could read the RFID tag from the reading area of ​​the antenna that could read the tag. A location-determining device as described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2.

[0161] (Note 4) The controlled antenna is one of the antennas that was read from among the plurality of antennas. The control means controls the controlled antenna to reduce the output strength of the controlled antenna. A location-determining device as described in any of Appendix 1 to Appendix 3.

[0162] (Note 5) The controlled antenna is one of the multiple antennas that failed to read the RFID tag. The control means controls the controlled antenna to increase the output strength of the controlled antenna. A location-determining device as described in any of Appendix 1 to Appendix 4.

[0163] (Note 6) The controlled antenna is one of the antennas that was read from among the plurality of antennas. The control means moves the antenna to be controlled so as to move away from the antennas other than the antenna to be controlled among the plurality of antennas. A location-determining device as described in any of Appendix 1 to Appendix 5.

[0164] (Note 7) The controlled antenna is one of the multiple antennas that failed to read the RFID tag. The control means moves the controlled antenna to approach the antenna that has been read. A location-determining device as described in any of Appendix 1 to Appendix 6.

[0165] (Note 8) The plurality of antennas are installed so as to be movable on rails installed in the predetermined space. A location-determining device as described in Appendix 6 or Appendix 7.

[0166] (Note 9) The controlled antenna is selected from among the antennas that could not be read, according to the degree of overlap with the reading area of ​​the antennas that could be read. A location-determining device as described in Appendix 5 or Appendix 7.

[0167] (Note 10) If the controlled antenna can read the RFID tag, the identification means newly identifies the area where the identified area and the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna overlap as the area where the item is located. A location-determining device as described in any of Appendix 1 to Appendix 7.

[0168] (Note 11) If the controlled antenna fails to read the RFID tag, the identification means newly identifies the area where the item is located, by excluding the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna from the identified area. A location-determining device as described in any of Appendix 1 to Appendix 8.

[0169] (Note 12) The control means controls the antenna to be controlled when the size of the identified region is greater than or equal to a predetermined size. A location-determining device as described in any of Appendix 1 to Appendix 11.

[0170] (Note 13) The output means outputs that the item is located in the identified area if the size of the identified area is less than the predetermined size. The location identification device described in Appendix 12.

[0171] (Note 14) The aforementioned controlled antenna is provided on an RFID reader mounted on a mobile device. The control means moves the mobile device to the identified region and issues a reading instruction to the RFID reader mounted on the mobile device. The identification means newly identifies the area in which the article is located based on the identified area and the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna. A location-determining device as described in any of Appendix 1 to Appendix 13.

[0172] (Note 15) The aforementioned mobile device is a drone. The location identification device described in Appendix 14.

[0173] (Note 16) The output means displays on a map of the predetermined space that the item is located in the specified area. A location-determining device as described in any of Appendix 1 to Appendix 15.

[0174] (Note 17) The output means outputs position information indicating the location of the identified region as position information of the article. A location-determining device as described in any of Appendix 1 to Appendix 16.

[0175] (Note 18) The output means registers location information indicating the location of the specified area in a database that manages the location information of the article. A location-determining device as described in any of Appendix 1 to 16.

[0176] (Note 19) Computers A reading command is issued to the RFID reader installed in a designated space to read the RFID tag attached to the item. Based on the reading area of ​​the antenna that was able to read the RFID tag from among the multiple antennas connected to the RFID reader, the area where the item is located is identified. Control the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna, Output that there is an item in the identified area. Execute the process, In the aforementioned identification process, the region in which the article is located is newly identified based on the identified region and the reading region of the controlled antenna. The output process outputs that the item is located in the newly identified area. A method for determining the location where processing will be performed.

[0177] (Note 20) On the computer, A reading command is issued to the RFID reader installed in a designated space to read the RFID tag attached to the item. Based on the reading area of ​​the antenna that was able to read the RFID tag from among the multiple antennas connected to the RFID reader, the area where the item is located is identified. Control the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna, Output that there is an item in the identified area. Execute the process, In the aforementioned identification process, the region in which the article is located is newly identified based on the identified region and the reading region of the controlled antenna. The output process outputs that the item is located in the newly identified area. A non-temporary recording medium readable by the computer, which records a program that executes a process.

[0178] Furthermore, some or all of the components described in Appendix 2 to Appendix 18, which are subordinate to Appendix 1 above, are included in Appendix 19 and Appendix 2. 0In contrast, they can also be subordinate through the same subordinate relationships as in Appendix 2 to Appendix 18. Furthermore, Appendix 1, Appendix 19, Appendix 2 0 Without limiting ourselves to the embodiments described above, we may also make some or all of the configurations described in the appendix dependent on various hardware, software, various recording means for recording software, or systems. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0179] 10,20 Locating device 21, 21-1, 21-2, 21-3, 21-4 Antenna 22 RFID readers 23 Terminal devices 24 Drones Reading area 31, 31-1, 31-2, 31-3, 31-4, 38 41,42,43,45,46,47 Placement area 80 Computers 102,202 Reading Unit 104,204 Specific part 106,206 Control Unit 108,208 Output section 201 Reception Department 210 Judgment section 801 Processor 802 ROM 803 RAM 804 Storage device 805 Communication Interface 806 Input / Output Interface 807 Bus 2000 Item Tag Database NT communication network

Claims

1. A reading means that issues a reading instruction to an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) reader installed in a designated space to read an RFID tag attached to an item, A means for identifying the area where the item is located, based on the reading area of ​​the antenna that was able to read the RFID tag from among a plurality of antennas connected to the RFID reader, A control means for controlling the reading area of ​​the antenna to be controlled, An output means that outputs that there is an item in the identified area, Equipped with, The identification means newly identifies the area in which the article is located based on the identified area and the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna, The output means outputs that the item is located in the newly identified area. Locating device.

2. The identifying means identifies the region in which the reading area of ​​the antenna that has been read overlaps as the region in which the article is placed. The location-determining device according to claim 1.

3. The identification means identifies the area where the article is placed as the area obtained by excluding the reading area of ​​the antenna that could read the RFID tag from the reading area of ​​the antenna that could read the RFID tag. The location-determining device according to claim 1.

4. The controlled antenna is one of the antennas that was read from among the plurality of antennas. The control means controls the controlled antenna to reduce the output strength of the controlled antenna. The location-determining device according to claim 1.

5. The controlled antenna is one of the multiple antennas that failed to read the RFID tag. The control means controls the controlled antenna to increase the output strength of the controlled antenna. The location-determining device according to claim 1.

6. The controlled antenna is one of the antennas that was read from among the plurality of antennas. The control means moves the antenna to be controlled so as to move away from the antennas other than the antenna to be controlled among the plurality of antennas. The location-determining device according to claim 1.

7. The controlled antenna is one of the multiple antennas that failed to read the RFID tag. The control means moves the controlled antenna to approach the antenna that has been read. The location-determining device according to claim 1.

8. The plurality of antennas are installed so as to be movable on rails installed in the predetermined space. A location-determining device according to claim 6 or claim 7.

9. Computers A reading command is issued to the RFID reader installed in a designated space to read the RFID tag attached to the item. Based on the reading area of ​​the antenna that was able to read the RFID tag from among the multiple antennas connected to the RFID reader, the area where the item is located is identified. Control the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna, Output that there is an item in the identified area. Execute the process, In the aforementioned identification process, the region in which the article is located is newly identified based on the identified region and the reading region of the controlled antenna. The output process outputs that the item is located in the newly identified area. Location method.

10. On the computer, A reading command is issued to the RFID reader installed in a designated space to read the RFID tag attached to the item. Based on the reading area of ​​the antenna that was able to read the RFID tag from among the multiple antennas connected to the RFID reader, the area where the item is located is identified. Control the reading area of ​​the controlled antenna, Output that there is an item in the identified area. Execute the process, In the aforementioned identification process, the region in which the article is located is newly identified based on the identified region and the reading region of the controlled antenna. The output process outputs that the item is located in the newly identified area. program.