JP2011045430A - Information display system, information display device, and electronic shelf label - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent malfunction caused by careless operation by a customer and make clerk's work efficient. <P>SOLUTION: Photoelectric cells of electronic shelf labels 100-1 to 100-M convert optical energy to electric power by photoelectric conversion and output the converted electric power. Comparators of the electronic shelf labels 100-1 to 100-M output detection signals based on the amounts of voltage or current output from the photoelectric cells and a predetermined threshold. A management server 500 or the electronic shelf labels 100-1 to 100-M performs a predetermined processing when the patterns of the detection signals output from the comparators of the electronic shelf labels 100-1 to 100-M coincide with a predetermined input pattern. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an information display system, an information display device, and an electronic shelf label.

In recent years, in retail stores such as supermarkets and convenience stores, electronic shelf labels that are installed on display shelves and display product information such as product names and selling prices have been put into practical use.
Displaying merchandise information for salesclerks such as sales and inventory in addition to the merchandise information on such an electronic shelf label can contribute to streamlining of store operations. However, if such information can be easily displayed, the secret of the store may be leaked to non-related parties.

As a method for solving such a problem, a method of providing a display switching button on the electronic shelf label and switching information to be displayed when the button is pressed can be considered.
Further, as a method for solving such a problem, a technique for switching display information using a portable information switching device possessed by a store clerk has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2). . Thereby, when the store clerk operates the information switching device, information to be displayed can be switched, and information leakage can be prevented.

  Patent Document 3 discloses a technique for mounting a photovoltaic cell and using the generated power as a power source for an electronic shelf label.

JP 2001-209861 A JP 2009-026329 A JP 2009-061216 A

However, when the electronic shelf label is provided with a display switching button, the display may be switched due to an inadvertent operation by the customer. It is also possible to place a display switch button on the back of the electronic shelf label to avoid inadvertent operations. In this case, the store clerk removes the electronic shelf label from the display shelf when switching the display. There is a problem that the work efficiency deteriorates.
In addition, when switching the display information by the portable information switching device, the store clerk needs to perform the operation while holding the information switching device, and there is a problem that work efficiency is poor.
The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object of the present invention is to provide an information display system and an information display that can prevent malfunction caused by careless operation by a customer and contribute to efficiency of work by a store clerk. It is to provide an apparatus and an electronic shelf label.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and is an information display system including an information display device and a management server device, wherein the information display device detects a change related to the state of the device itself, An output unit that outputs a voltage or current corresponding to the change; and a signal output unit that outputs a detection signal based on a voltage or current amount output from the output unit and a predetermined threshold; The management server device includes a process execution unit that executes a predetermined process only when a pattern of a detection signal output from the signal output unit matches a predetermined input pattern.

  In the present invention, the signal output unit may check whether there is a change in the state of the device according to a case where an amount of voltage or current output from the output unit exceeds a predetermined threshold value or falls below a predetermined threshold value. The detection signal shown is output.

  In the present invention, the output unit is formed of a photovoltaic cell, and the information display device charges the secondary battery using the voltage or current output from the output unit.

  In the present invention, the output unit is configured by a proximity sensor, and is provided within a range of the shape of the information display device.

  In the present invention, a plurality of the output unit and the signal output unit are provided, the input pattern indicates a combination of the plurality of signal output units, and the processing execution unit is a combination of the signal output units that output the detection signals. The predetermined process is executed only when the input pattern matches the input pattern.

  Also, in the present invention, the input pattern indicates an ordered combination of the plurality of signal output units, and the processing execution unit includes a signal output unit that outputs the detection signal and a signal output unit that the input pattern indicates. A predetermined process is executed only when they match in order.

  Further, in the present invention, the input pattern indicates an order of output intervals of a plurality of detection signals, and the processing execution unit is configured such that the order of output intervals of the detection signals by the signal output unit matches the input pattern. Only predetermined processing is executed.

  Further, the present invention is an information display device that displays information, detects a change related to the state of the device itself, outputs a voltage or current according to the change, and outputs a voltage or a current output from the output unit. A signal output unit that outputs a detection signal based on the amount of current and a predetermined threshold, and a process execution that executes a predetermined process only when the pattern of the detection signal output by the detection unit matches a predetermined input pattern And a section.

  The present invention is also an electronic shelf label comprising the information display device.

  According to the present invention, the predetermined operation is performed when the pattern of the detection signal matches the predetermined input pattern. Thereby, the probability that the malfunction by the customer's careless operation will occur can be lowered. Further, by providing the information display device with an acceleration sensor that is an input means, the store clerk can perform an operation without using a portable information switching device, which can contribute to work efficiency.

It is a block diagram of the electronic shelf label system by 1st Embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the structure of the electronic shelf label by 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the arrangement position of a photovoltaic cell. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the structure of the management server apparatus by 1st Embodiment. It is a 1st figure which shows the example of the information which an input pattern table stores. It is a figure which shows the example of the information which a template table stores. It is a figure which shows the example of the information which a merchandise information table stores. It is a 1st flowchart which shows the operation | movement in which the input device part of an electronic shelf label outputs a detection signal. It is a 1st figure which shows an output voltage when a photocell of an electronic shelf label is shielded, and a detection signal. It is a 1st flowchart which shows operation | movement of the electronic shelf label when a user inputs a command into an electronic shelf label. It is a 1st flowchart which shows the operation | movement when a management server apparatus receives input pattern data. It is a figure which shows the example of a screen of a goods name and price display screen. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement when an electronic shelf label receives a display switching command. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the structure of the electronic shelf label by 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the arrangement position of a photovoltaic cell. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the structure of the management server apparatus by 2nd Embodiment. It is a 2nd figure which shows the example of the information which an input pattern table stores. It is a 2nd flowchart which shows operation | movement of the electronic shelf label when a user inputs a command into an electronic shelf label. It is a 2nd flowchart which shows the operation | movement when a management server apparatus receives input pattern data. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the structure of the electronic shelf label by 3rd Embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the structure of the management server apparatus by 3rd Embodiment. It is a 3rd flowchart which shows operation | movement of an electronic shelf label when a user inputs a command into an electronic shelf label. It is a 3rd flowchart which shows the operation | movement at the time of a management server apparatus receiving input pattern data. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the structure of the electronic shelf label by 4th Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the arrangement position of a proximity sensor.

(First embodiment)
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of an electronic shelf label system according to the first embodiment.
The electronic shelf label system includes electronic shelf labels 100-1 to 100-M (hereinafter, the electronic shelf labels 100-1 to 100-M are collectively referred to as an electronic shelf label 100), a large electronic shelf label 200, and a relay. Devices 300-1 to 300-N (hereinafter, relay devices 300-1 to 300-N are collectively referred to as repeaters 300), base station device 400, management server device 500, and store server device 600.
The electronic shelf label 100 is a device that is arranged on a display shelf of products and displays product information.
The large electronic shelf label 200 is a device that is arranged on a display shelf of products and displays information on a plurality of products and detailed information on the products.
The repeater 300 and the base station device 400 are devices that relay communication between the management server device 500, the electronic shelf label 100, and the large electronic shelf label 200.
The management server device 500 is a device that controls display of the electronic shelf label 100 and the large electronic shelf label 200.
The store server device 600 is a device that manages product information such as product master information, sales information, and inventory information.

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the electronic shelf label 100 according to the first embodiment.
The electronic shelf label 100 includes an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) display unit 110, a memory 120, an input device unit 130, a wireless communication unit 140, and a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 150.
The LCD display unit 110 displays display information indicating product information such as a product name, price, and inventory.
The memory 120 stores display information to be displayed on the LCD display unit 110.

The input device unit 130 includes a photovoltaic cell 131 and a comparator 132.
The photovoltaic cell 131 converts light energy into electric power by photoelectric conversion and outputs it. The electric power is used as charging power for the secondary battery that drives the electronic shelf label 100.
The comparator 132 outputs a detection signal indicating ON when the voltage of the electric power output from the photovoltaic cell 131 is equal to or lower than a predetermined threshold, and indicating OFF when exceeding the predetermined threshold.
That is, by shielding the photovoltaic cell 131 with a hand or the like, the output power of the photovoltaic cell 131 is reduced, and the detection signal output by the comparator 132 is turned on when the output power becomes a predetermined threshold value or less.

The wireless communication unit 140 outputs a wireless signal and communicates with the management server device 500 via the repeater 300 and the base station device 400.
The CPU 150 configures an output signal control unit 151, an input timer unit 152, a display switching unit 153, and a display timer unit 154 by executing a program.
The output signal control unit 151 generates input pattern data to be output to the management server 400 based on the detection signal output from the input device unit 130.
The input timer 152 measures the elapsed time from the time when the input device unit 130 outputs the detection signal.
The display switching unit 153 switches display information to be displayed on the LCD display unit 110.
The display timer unit 154 measures the elapsed time from the time when the display switching unit 153 switches the display information of the LCD display unit 110.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the arrangement position of the photovoltaic cell 131.
As shown in FIG. 3, the photovoltaic cell 131 is disposed adjacent to the LCD display unit 110 of the electronic shelf label 100. Thus, by arranging the photovoltaic cell 131 on the surface of the electronic shelf label 100, the store clerk can operate without removing the electronic shelf label from the display shelf when switching the display, thereby preventing deterioration of work efficiency. be able to. Further, unlike the input means such as buttons, the photocell 131 is less likely to be noticed by the customer that it is used as an input means, so that it is possible to prevent malfunctions due to mischief or careless operations.

FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram illustrating the configuration of the management server device according to the first embodiment.
The management server device 500 includes a communication unit 510, a storage unit 520, and a CPU 530.
The communication unit 510 communicates with the electronic shelf label 100 via the base station device 400 and the repeater 300.
The storage unit 520 stores an input pattern table 521, a template table 522, and a product information table 523.

The input pattern table 521 stores a combination of detection intervals of detection signals output from the electronic shelf label 100 and processing contents corresponding to the combination in association with each electronic shelf label 100.
The template table 522 stores display information templates to be displayed on the electronic shelf label 100.
The product information table 523 stores product information indicated by the product code and information on the electronic shelf label 100 that displays the product information in association with the product code.

The CPU 530 configures a process determination unit 531 and a process execution unit 532 by executing a program.
The process determination unit 531 compares the input pattern data output from the electronic shelf label 100 with the combination of detection intervals stored in the input pattern table 521, and determines the processing content.
The process execution unit 532 executes a process according to the process content determined by the process determination unit 531.

FIG. 5 is a first diagram illustrating an example of information stored in the input pattern table 521.
As shown in FIG. 5, the input pattern table 521 is associated with a shelf label code that is an identification number of the electronic shelf label 100, a processing mode that is a processing identification number, a detection interval of a plurality of detection signals, a processing content, Stores temporary display flag and standard mode flag. The temporary display flag is a standard after a certain time has elapsed since the electronic shelf label 100 switched the display of the LCD display unit 110 when the temporary display flag is “1” when the processing content indicates display switching. This is a flag indicating switching to mode display. The standard mode flag is a flag indicating that the process is a display in the standard mode when the process content indicates display switching and the standard mode is “1”.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of information stored in the template table 522.
As illustrated in FIG. 6A, the template table 522 stores a background image, display information, and a display area in association with a processing mode that is a processing identification number. Such information is used as a template of display information to be displayed on the LCD display unit 110 of the electronic shelf label 100. For example, the product name / price display screen template shown in the processing mode 1 has a product name display position, a price display position, and a barcode display position, as shown in FIG. A display screen is generated by placing product information at each of the positions defined in the template.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of information stored in the product information table 523.
The merchandise information table 523 is associated with the merchandise code, the merchandise name and price of the merchandise indicated by the merchandise code, the shelf label code of the electronic shelf label 100 that displays the merchandise information, and the large electronic that displays the merchandise information. A shelf label code of the shelf label 200 and a large display flag indicating whether or not to display information on the large electronic shelf label 200 are stored.

With such a configuration, the photovoltaic cell 131 of the electronic shelf label 100 detects a change related to the state of the own device and outputs power corresponding to the change. Next, the comparator 134 outputs a detection signal based on the power output from the photovoltaic cell 131 and a predetermined threshold value. Then, the processing execution unit 532 of the management server device 500 or the display switching unit 153 of the electronic shelf label 100 performs predetermined processing when the pattern of the detection signal output from the comparator 134 of the electronic shelf label 100 matches a predetermined input pattern. Execute.
Here, the predetermined input pattern indicates a combination of detection intervals stored in the input pattern table 521 of the management server device 500, and the predetermined process indicates the processing content stored in the input pattern table 521. That is, the process execution unit 532 of the management server device 500 or the display switching unit 153 of the electronic shelf label 100 combines the detection interval of the detection signal output from the input device unit 130 of the electronic shelf label 100 and the detection interval of the input pattern table 522. And the input pattern table 522 executes processing contents stored in association with the combination of the detection intervals.
As a result, it is possible to prevent malfunctions caused by careless operations by customers, and to contribute to the efficiency of work by store staff.

Next, the operation of the electronic shelf label system according to the first embodiment will be described.
First, an operation in which the input device unit 130 of the electronic shelf label 100 outputs a detection signal will be described.
FIG. 8 is a first flowchart illustrating an operation in which the input device unit 130 of the electronic shelf label 100 outputs a detection signal.
The photovoltaic cell 131 of the electronic shelf label 100 converts light energy into electric power, and always outputs the converted electric power (step S1). Next, the comparator 132 compares the voltage of the power output from the photovoltaic cell 131 with a predetermined threshold value (step S2). When the comparator 134 determines that the voltage output from the photovoltaic cell 131 is equal to or lower than the predetermined threshold (step S2: YES), the comparator 134 outputs a detection signal indicating ON (step S3). On the other hand, when the comparator 134 determines that the voltage output from the photovoltaic cell 131 is equal to or higher than the predetermined threshold (step S2: NO), the comparator 134 outputs a detection signal indicating OFF (step S4). In other words, the comparator 134 outputs a detection signal indicating ON when the output power voltage of the photovoltaic cell 131 falls below a predetermined threshold value by shielding the photovoltaic cell 131 with a hand or the like, and the output power voltage is predetermined. When the threshold value is exceeded, a detection signal indicating OFF is output.

FIG. 9 is a first diagram illustrating an output voltage and a detection signal when the photovoltaic cell 131 of the electronic shelf label 100 is shielded from light.
FIG. 9A is a graph showing the output voltage of the photovoltaic cell 131, where the horizontal axis shows time and the vertical axis shows voltage. When the photocell 131 is shielded from light, the light energy incident on the photocell 131 decreases, and as shown in FIG. 9A, electric power having a voltage corresponding to the incident light energy is output.
FIG. 9B is a graph showing the detection signal output from the comparator 134, where the horizontal axis shows time and the vertical axis shows the voltage of the detection signal. When the output voltage of the photovoltaic cell 131 becomes equal to or lower than a predetermined threshold value, the detection signal voltage is switched from a value indicating OFF to a value indicating ON, as shown in FIG. 9B.

Next, the operation of the electronic shelf label 100 when the user inputs a display switching command by shielding the photocell 131 of the electronic shelf label 100 will be described.
FIG. 10 is a first flowchart showing the operation of the electronic shelf label 100 when the user inputs a command to the electronic shelf label 100.
The output signal control unit 151 of the electronic shelf label 100 acquires the detection signal output from the input device unit 130 (step S11). Next, the output signal control unit 151 determines whether or not the acquired detection signal is ON (step S12). When the output signal control unit 151 determines that the detection signal is OFF (step S12: NO), the process returns to step S11, and the determination of ON / OFF of the detection signal of the input device unit 130 is repeated.
On the other hand, when the output signal control unit 151 determines that the detection signal is ON (step S12: YES), the input timer unit 152 starts counting elapsed time from the time when the detection signal is determined to be ON. (Step S13). The input timer unit 152 writes the time measured in the elapsed time storage area of the memory 120.

When the input timer unit 152 starts measuring time, the output signal control unit 151 acquires the detection signal from the input device unit 130 again (step S14). Next, the output signal control unit 151 determines whether or not the detection signal is ON (step S15). When the output signal control unit 151 determines that the detection signal is ON (step S15: YES), the output signal control unit 151 reads the time counted by the input timer unit 152 and detects that time, that is, ON. The signal detection interval is written in the detection interval storage area of the memory 120 (step S16). At this time, the output signal control unit 151 writes the detection intervals in the detection interval storage area of the memory 120 as a list ordered in the output order of the detection signals. Next, the input timer unit 152 resets the time written in the elapsed time storage area of the memory 120 and starts measuring the elapsed time from the time when the detection signal is determined to be ON in step S15 (step S17). .
When the output signal control unit 151 determines in step S15 that the detection signal is OFF (step S15: NO), or when the input timer unit 152 resets the elapsed time in step S17, the output signal control unit 151 It is determined whether or not the time counted by the input timer unit 152 has passed a predetermined time (step S18). Here, the predetermined time is, for example, about 3 seconds. When the output signal control unit 151 determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed (step S18: NO), the output signal control unit 151 returns to step S14 and repeats the ON / OFF determination of the detection signal.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (step S18: YES), the output signal control unit 151 reads a list of detection intervals stored in the detection interval storage area by the memory 120 (step S19).

  That is, if the comparator 134 outputs a detection signal indicating ON before a predetermined time has elapsed since the time when the comparator 134 last output a detection signal indicating ON, the processes in steps S14 to S18 are repeated. By this processing, a list of detection intervals ordered in the output order of detection signals is accumulated in the detection interval storage area of the memory 120. Then, the output signal control unit 151 reads a list of detection intervals when a predetermined time has elapsed since the time when the comparator 134 last output a detection signal indicating ON.

When the output signal control unit 151 reads the list of detection intervals in step S19, the output signal control unit 151 generates input pattern data indicating the read list of detection intervals (step S20). Next, the wireless communication unit 140 transmits the generated input pattern data to the management server device 500 (step S21). However, if the detection signal ON is detected only once in step S12 and the list of detection intervals is not stored in the detection interval storage area of the memory 120, the generation of input pattern data in step S20 and the input pattern in step S21 The process ends without sending data.
Thereby, it is possible to transmit a combination of output intervals at which two continuous detection signals are output, that is, a detection signal pattern, to the management server device.

Next, an operation when the management server device 500 receives input pattern data will be described.
FIG. 11 is a first flowchart showing an operation when the management server device 500 receives input pattern data.
When the electronic shelf label 100 outputs the input pattern data in step S21 described above, the communication unit 510 of the management server device 500 receives the input pattern data via the repeater 300 and the base station device 400 (step S31). When the communication unit 510 receives the input pattern data, the processing determination unit 531 compares the detection interval of the detection signal indicated by the input pattern data with the detection interval of each processing mode indicated by the input pattern table 521, and selects any processing mode. It is determined whether or not the detection interval associated with is coincident with the detection interval indicated by the input pattern data within a predetermined error range (step S32). Specifically, an input indicating that the first detection interval is 0.45 seconds and the second detection interval is 0.53 seconds from the electronic shelf label 100 whose shelf label ID is 1001 by the above-described processing. Assume that pattern data has been received. In this case, first, the processing determination unit 531 has a detection interval 1 of 0.45 seconds and an error within 0.1 seconds from among the processing modes 1 to 6 corresponding to the shelf label code 1001 of the input pattern table 521 shown in FIG. Identify matches. Here, it is determined that the processing modes 1, 2, 5, and 6 indicating 0.5 seconds match within the error range. Next, the processing modes 1, 2, 5, and 6 that match the detection interval 2 within 0.53 seconds with an error within 0.1 seconds are identified. Here, it is determined that the processing modes 1 and 5 in which the detection interval 2 is 0.5 seconds match. Next, the processing modes 1 and 5 that have a detection interval 3 of NULL are specified. At this time, since the detection interval 3 in the processing mode 1 is NULL, the processing determination unit 531 determines that the detection interval in the processing mode 1 matches the detection interval indicated by the input pattern data within the error range.

  In step S32, when the process determining unit 531 determines that the detection interval of any of the processing modes matches the detection interval indicated by the input pattern data (step S32: YES), the process determining unit 531 enters the matching processing mode from the input pattern table 521. The associated processing content is read (step S33). Specifically, when the processing determination unit 531 determines that the matching processing mode is the processing mode 1, the processing determination unit 531 reads the processing content “product name / price display” associated with the processing mode 1. .

  When the process determination unit 531 reads the processing content, the process execution unit 532 generates a processing command according to the read processing content (step S34). Specifically, when the process determination unit 531 reads the processing content “product name / price display” by the above-described processing, the process execution unit 532 first displays the product name / price shown in FIG. 6B from the template table 522. Read the display screen template. Next, the process execution unit 532 reads the product code, product name, and price associated with the shelf label code 1001 from the product information table 523. Next, the process execution unit 532 arranges the read product name at the product name display position of the template of the read product name / price display screen, arranges the read price at the price display position, and displays the barcode display position. In addition, display information in which a barcode generated from the read product code is arranged is generated. Next, the process execution unit 532 reads a temporary display flag corresponding to the process mode 1 from the input pattern table 521 shown in FIG. Then, the process execution unit 532 generates a display switching command (processing command) including display information on the product name / price display screen and a temporary display flag.

When the processing execution unit 532 generates a processing command in step S34, the communication unit 510 transmits the generated processing command to the device to be processed (step S35). Specifically, when the process execution unit 532 generates a display switching command by the above-described processing, the display switching command is transmitted to the electronic shelf label 100 that is the transmission source of the input pattern data.
When the execution of the process is completed by the management server device 500, the transmission process in step S35 may not be performed. For example, when the processing content is “display on large electronic shelf label”, the process execution unit 532 switches the large display flag of the product information table 524 shown in FIG. In this case, the transmission process in step S35 need not be performed.

  On the other hand, when the process determining unit 531 determines in step S32 that the detection interval indicated by the input pattern data does not match any of the detection intervals in the processing mode (step S32: NO), the management server device 500 generates a processing instruction. The process is terminated without performing the process. Thereby, since a process is not performed when the input pattern by a user is wrong, generation | occurrence | production of the malfunction by a customer's careless operation can be prevented.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a screen example of a product name / price display screen.
The product name / price display screen is a screen in which the product name, price, and barcode are arranged on the template of the product name / price display screen shown in FIG.

In step S34, the processing content refers to information stored in the store server device 600 such as “sales display” in processing mode 3 and “inventory display” in processing mode 4 in the input pattern table 521 shown in FIG. If it is, the process determination unit 531 reads the corresponding information from the store server device 600 via the communication unit 510.
The processing content may be processing other than processing for switching information to be displayed on the electronic shelf label 100. For example, input pattern data such as “display on large electronic shelf label” in the processing mode 6 shown in FIG. Processing to a device other than the transmitted electronic shelf label 100 may be performed. Here, the processing content of “display on large electronic shelf label” indicates processing for displaying information on the product associated with the electronic shelf label 100 that has transmitted the input pattern data on the large electronic shelf label 200. The large electronic shelf label 200 acquires information from the product information table 524 shown in FIG. 7 and displays information whose large display flag is “1”.

Next, an operation when the electronic shelf label 100 receives a display switching command will be described.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an operation when the electronic shelf label 100 receives a display switching command.
When the management server device 500 outputs a display switching command to the electronic shelf label 100 as a processing command in step S35 described above, the wireless communication unit 140 of the electronic shelf label 100 transmits a display switching command via the base station 300 and the repeater 300. Is received (step S41).

  When the wireless communication unit 140 receives the display switching command, the display switching unit 153 switches the display information displayed on the LCD display unit 110 to the display information included in the received display switching command (step S42). Next, the display switching unit 153 determines whether or not the temporary display flag included in the received display switching command is “1” (step S43). When the display switching unit 153 determines that the temporary display flag is “0” (step S43: NO), the electronic shelf label 100 ends the process.

On the other hand, when the display switching unit 153 determines that the temporary display flag is “1” (step S43: YES), the display timer unit 154 displays the elapsed time from the time when the display switching unit 153 switches the display information. Timekeeping is started (step S44). Note that the display timer unit 154 writes the time measured in the memory 120.
Next, the display switching unit 153 reads the time measured by the display timer unit 154 from the memory 120 (step S45). Next, the display switching unit 153 determines whether or not the time measured by the display timer unit 154 has passed a predetermined time (step S46). Here, the predetermined time is, for example, about 1 minute. If the display switching unit 153 determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed (step S46: NO), the display switching unit 153 returns to step S45 and repeats the determination of the passage of time.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (step S46: YES), the display switching unit 153 switches the display information displayed on the LCD display unit 110 to the standard mode display information (step S47). Here, the switching process from the standard mode to the display mode by the display switching unit 153 can be realized by the following method.
For example, the standard mode display information is stored in the memory 120 in advance, and when the display is switched to the standard mode, the display switching unit 153 reads the display information from the memory 120 and switches the display information. The display information can be switched.
Further, for example, when switching the display to the standard mode, the wireless communication unit 140 receives display information indicating that the standard mode flag is “1” from the management server device 500, and the display switching unit 153 switches to the display information received. This also makes it possible to switch the display information to the standard mode.

  As a result, the store clerk or the like switches the display information on the electronic shelf label 100 to display information related to the store secret such as sales information and inventory information for the store work, and then changes the display information to the customer-oriented display information such as the standard mode. Even if you forget to switch the display, the display is switched to the standard mode showing the display information for the customer as the predetermined time elapses. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the confidential information of the store will be leaked to non-related parties. .

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the detection interval of the detection signal output by the input device unit 130 by tapping the electronic shelf label 100 in the depth direction is defined in the input pattern table 522 of the management server device 500. When the detection interval of the processing mode matches within a predetermined error range, the management server device 500 executes processing of the processing content associated with the processing mode.
As a result, it is possible to prevent malfunctions caused by careless operations by customers, and to contribute to the efficiency of work by store staff.

  In the present embodiment, the case where the input pattern table 521 and the processing determination unit 531 are provided in the management server device 500 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the electronic shelf label 100 may be provided.

(Second Embodiment)
Hereinafter, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 14 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the electronic shelf label 100 according to the second embodiment.
The photovoltaic cell 1131 of the electronic shelf label 100 according to the second embodiment is composed of a plurality of photovoltaic cells 1131-1 to 1131-4, each of which converts light energy into electric power and outputs it.
Moreover, the comparator 1132 outputs a detection signal with respect to the electric power output from each of the photovoltaic cells 1131-1 to 1131-4.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the arrangement positions of the photovoltaic cells 1131-1 to 1131-4.
Photovoltaic cells 1113-1 to 1131-4 are arranged adjacent to LCD display portion 110 of electronic shelf label 100 as shown in FIG.
Further, the photovoltaic cells 1113-1 to 1131-4 are connected in series as shown in FIG. The comparator 1141 measures the voltage of the photovoltaic cell 1131-1 by calculating the voltage V1-voltage V2, and measures the voltage of the photovoltaic cell 1131-2 by calculating the voltage V2-voltage V3. The voltage of the photovoltaic cell 1131-3 is measured by calculating V4, and the voltage of the photovoltaic cell 1131-4 is measured by calculating voltage V4-voltage V5.

FIG. 16 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the management server device 500 according to the second embodiment.
The management server device 500 according to the second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the contents of the input pattern table 1521 and the operation of the processing determination unit 1531.

FIG. 17 is a second diagram illustrating an example of information stored in the input pattern table 1521.
As shown in FIG. 17, the input pattern table 1521 according to the second embodiment is associated with a shelf label code that is an identification number of the electronic shelf label 100, a processing mode that is a processing identification number, and a plurality of detection signals. A detection cell, processing contents, a temporary display flag, and a standard mode flag are stored.
That is, the input pattern table 1522 according to the second embodiment stores the identification information of the detection cell instead of the detection interval. The identification information of the detection cell is identification information of the photovoltaic cells 1113-1 to 1131-4 determined by the comparator 1132 that the output voltage has exceeded a predetermined threshold value. Here, the numbers below the hyphen of the photovoltaic cells 1113-1 to 1131-4 are used as the identification information of the photovoltaic cells.

Next, the operation of the electronic shelf label system according to the second embodiment will be described.
First, the operation of the electronic shelf label 100 when the user inputs a display switching command by shielding the photocell 131 of the electronic shelf label 100 will be described.
FIG. 18 is a second flowchart showing the operation of the electronic shelf label 100 when the user inputs a command to the electronic shelf label 100.
The output signal control unit 1151 of the electronic shelf label 100 acquires detection signals corresponding to the respective photovoltaic cells 1131-1 to 1131-4 output from the input device unit 130 by the same operation as that of the first embodiment (Step S1). S51). Next, the output signal control unit 1151 determines whether any of the acquired detection signals corresponding to the respective photovoltaic cells is ON (step S52). When the output signal control unit 1151 determines that all the detection signals are OFF (step S52: NO), the process returns to step S51, and the determination of ON / OFF of the detection signal of the input device unit 130 is repeated.
On the other hand, when the output signal control unit 1151 determines that any of the detection signals is ON (step S52: YES), the output signal control unit 1151 stores the photovoltaic cell in which the detection signal is ON in the memory 120. The identification information (1-4) is written (step S53). Next, the input timer unit 1152 starts measuring elapsed time from the time when the detection signal is determined to be ON (step S54). Note that the input timer unit 1152 writes the time measured in the memory 120.

  When the input timer unit 1152 starts measuring time, the output signal control unit 1151 acquires the detection signal of each photovoltaic cell from the input device unit 130 again (step S55). Next, the output signal control unit 1151 determines whether or not the detection signal corresponding to any one of the photovoltaic cells is ON (step S56). When the output signal control unit 1151 determines that any of the detection signals is ON (step S56: YES), the output signal control unit 1151 stores the identification information of the photovoltaic cell whose detection signal is ON in the memory 120. Write to. (Step S57). At this time, the output signal control unit 1151 writes the identification information of the photovoltaic cells in the memory 120 as a list ordered in the output order of the detection signals. Next, the input timer unit 1152 resets the time written in the memory 120 and starts measuring the elapsed time from the time when the detection signal is determined to be ON in step S56 (step S58).

When the output signal control unit 151 determines in step S56 that the detection signal is OFF (step S56: NO), or when the input timer unit 1152 resets the elapsed time in step S58, the output signal control unit 1151 It is determined whether or not the time counted by the input timer unit 1152 has passed a predetermined time (step S59). Here, the predetermined time is, for example, about 3 seconds. When the output signal control unit 1151 determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed (step S59: NO), the output signal control unit 1151 returns to step S55 and repeats the ON / OFF determination of the detection signal.
On the other hand, when the output signal control unit 1151 determines that the predetermined time has elapsed (step S59: YES), the output signal control unit 1151 reads a list of photovoltaic cells stored in the memory 120 (step S60).

When the output signal control unit 1151 reads the list of photovoltaic cells, the output signal control unit 1151 generates input pattern data indicating the read list of photovoltaic cells (step S61). Next, the wireless communication unit 140 transmits the generated input pattern data to the management server device 500 (step S62).
Thereby, the combination of the photovoltaic cells in which the detection signal is turned on, that is, the pattern of the detection signal can be transmitted to the management server device.

Next, an operation when the management server device 500 receives input pattern data will be described.
FIG. 19 is a second flowchart showing an operation when the management server device 500 receives input pattern data.
When the electronic shelf label 100 outputs the input pattern data in step S62 described above, the communication unit 510 of the management server device 500 receives the input pattern data via the repeater 300 and the base station device 400 (step S71). When the communication unit 510 receives the input pattern data, the process determining unit 1531 compares the photovoltaic cell indicated by the input pattern data with the detection cell of each process mode indicated by the input pattern table 1521 and associates it with one of the process modes. It is determined whether or not the detected cell matches (step S72).

  Specifically, when the shelf label ID of the electronic shelf label 100 is 1001 and the detection cell indicated by the input pattern data is 1 → 3, first, the processing determining unit 1531 first displays the shelf label code of the input pattern table 1521 shown in FIG. It is determined whether or not any detection cell 1 in the processing modes 1 to 6 corresponding to 1001 matches “1”. Here, it is determined that the processing modes 1, 2, and 4 in which the detection area 1 is “1” match. Next, it is determined whether or not the detection cell 2 in any of the processing modes 1, 2, and 4 matches “3”. Here, it is determined that the processing modes 2 and 4 in which the detection area 2 is “3” match. Next, it is determined whether any of the detection cells 3 in the processing modes 2 and 4 is NULL. At this time, since the detection cell 3 in the processing mode 2 is NULL, the processing determination unit 1532 determines that the detection cell in the processing mode 2 matches the photovoltaic cell indicated by the input pattern data.

When the process determination unit 1531 determines in step S72 that the detection cell in any of the process modes matches the photovoltaic cell indicated by the input pattern data (step 72: YES), the process determination unit 1531 corresponds to the matched process mode from the input pattern table 1521. The attached processing content is read (step S73).
When the process determination unit 1531 reads out the processing content, the process execution unit 532 generates a processing command according to the read out processing content (step S74).

When the processing execution unit 532 generates a processing command, the communication unit 510 transmits the generated processing command to a device to be processed (step S75).
On the other hand, when the process determining unit 1531 determines in step S72 that the photovoltaic cell indicated by the input pattern data does not match any of the detection cells in the process mode (step S72: NO), the management server device 500 generates a process instruction. The process is terminated without performing the process. Thereby, since a process is not performed when the input pattern by a user is wrong, generation | occurrence | production of the malfunction by a customer's careless operation can be prevented.
The operation when the electronic shelf label 100 receives the display switching command is the same as that in the first embodiment.

In the present embodiment, the output voltage V ₁ of the photovoltaic cell 1131-1 is obtained from V1-V2 shown in FIG. 15B, the output voltage V ₂ of the photovoltaic cell 1131-2 is obtained from V2-V3, and the photovoltaic cell the output voltage V ₃ of 1131-3 determined by V3-V4, has described the case of obtaining the output voltage V ₄ of the photovoltaic cell 1131-4 by V4-V5, but is not limited thereto.
For example, to calculate the V ₁ -V ₃ as V _1-3, when the voltage of V _1-3 was a predetermined threshold V _th1 or more, ON detection signal from the comparator 1132 corresponds to the photovoltaic cell 1131-1 In the case where the voltage V _1-3 is equal to or lower than the predetermined threshold V _th2 , the detection signal corresponding to the photovoltaic cell 1131-3 may be turned ON.
Or to calculate the V ₁ / V ₃ as V _1/3, when the voltage of V _1/3 was the predetermined threshold value V _th3 above, ON detection signal from the comparator 1132 corresponds to the photovoltaic cell 1131-3 If the voltage V _1/3 is equal to or lower than the predetermined threshold V _th4 , the detection signal corresponding to the photovoltaic cell 1131-1 may be turned on.
By using these detection methods, it is possible to reduce variations in detection sensitivity due to the influence of the difference in received light intensity depending on the installation position of the electronic shelf label 100 or the like.

(Third embodiment)
Hereinafter, the third embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 20 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the electronic shelf label 100 according to the third embodiment.
The electronic shelf label 100 according to the third embodiment is different from the second embodiment in the operations of the output signal control unit 2151 and the input timer unit 2152.

FIG. 21 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the management server device 500 according to the third embodiment.
The management server device 500 according to the third embodiment is different from the second embodiment in the operation of the processing determination unit 2531.

Next, the operation of the electronic shelf label system according to the third embodiment will be described.
First, the operation of the electronic shelf label 100 when the user inputs a display switching command by shielding the photocell 131 of the electronic shelf label 100 will be described.
FIG. 22 is a third flowchart showing the operation of the electronic shelf label 100 when the user inputs a command to the electronic shelf label 100.
The output signal control unit 2151 of the electronic shelf label 100 acquires detection signals corresponding to the respective photovoltaic cells 1131-1 to 1131-4 output from the input device unit 130 by the same operation as in the first embodiment (step). S81). Next, the output signal control unit 1151 determines whether any of the acquired detection signals corresponding to the respective photovoltaic cells is ON (step S82). When the output signal control unit 1151 determines that all the detection signals are OFF (step S82: NO), the process returns to step S81 and repeats the ON / OFF determination of the detection signal of the input device unit 130.
On the other hand, when the output signal control unit 2151 determines that the detection signal is ON (step S82: YES), the input timer unit 2152 starts counting the elapsed time from the time when the detection signal is determined to be ON. (Step S83). Note that the input timer unit 2152 writes the time measured in the memory 120.

Next, the output signal control unit 2151 reads the time counted by the input timer unit 2152 from the memory 120 (step S84). Next, the output signal control unit 2151 determines whether or not the time measured by the input timer unit 2152 has passed a predetermined time (step S85). Here, the predetermined time is, for example, about 1 second. When the output signal control unit 2151 determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed (step S85: NO), the output signal control unit 2151 returns to step S84 and repeats the determination of the elapse of time.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (step S85: YES), the output signal control unit 2151 reads out the identification information of the photovoltaic cell indicating that the detection signal output from the input device unit 130 is ON (step S86). . When there are a plurality of photovoltaic cells whose detection signals indicate ON, the input device unit 130 reads the identification information of each of the plurality of photovoltaic cells.

When the output signal control unit 2151 reads the coordinate information from the detection signal, the output signal control unit 2151 generates input pattern data indicating the read coordinate information (step S87). Next, the wireless communication unit 140 transmits the generated input pattern data to the management server device 500 (step S88).
The combination of the photovoltaic cells in which the detection signal is turned on, that is, the detection signal pattern can be transmitted to the management server device.

Next, an operation when the management server device 500 receives input pattern data will be described.
FIG. 23 is a third flowchart showing the operation when the management server apparatus receives the input pattern data.
When the electronic shelf label 100 transmits the input pattern data in step S88 described above, the communication unit 510 of the management server device 500 receives the input pattern data via the repeater 300 and the base station device 400 (step S91). When the communication unit 510 receives the input pattern data, the process determination unit 2532 compares the photovoltaic cell indicated by the input pattern data with the detection cell of each process mode indicated by the input pattern table 1522 and associates it with one of the process modes. It is determined whether or not the detected area matches (step S92). Specifically, if the shelf label ID of the electronic shelf label 100 is 1001 and the photovoltaic cells indicated by the input pattern data are 1 and 3 by the above-described processing, the process determining unit 2532 stores the input pattern table 1522 shown in FIG. It is determined whether any of the detection cells in the processing modes 1 to 6 corresponding to the shelf label code 1001 matches 1 and 3. Here, since the detection cells in the processing mode 2 indicate 1 and 3, the processing determination unit 2532 determines that the detection cell in the processing mode 2 matches the photovoltaic cell indicated by the input pattern data.

  If the process determining unit 2532 determines in step S92 that the detected cell in any of the processing modes matches the specified detected cell (step S92: YES), it is associated with the matched processing mode from the input pattern table 1522. The processed contents are read (step S93). Next, the process execution unit 532 generates a process command according to the read process content (step S94).

When the processing execution unit 532 generates a processing command, the communication unit 510 transmits the generated processing command to a device to be processed (step S95). On the other hand, when the process determining unit 2532 determines in step S92 that the specified detection area does not match any of the detection areas in the processing mode (step S92: NO), the management server device 500 does not generate a processing instruction. The process ends. Thereby, since a process is not performed when the input pattern by a user is wrong, generation | occurrence | production of the malfunction by a customer's careless operation can be prevented.
The operation when the electronic shelf label 100 receives the display switching command is the same as that in the first embodiment.

(Fourth embodiment)
Hereinafter, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 24 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the electronic shelf label 100 according to the fourth embodiment.
The electronic shelf label 100 according to the fourth embodiment includes a proximity sensor 133 and an amplifier 134 instead of the photovoltaic cell 131 of the first embodiment, and the operation of the comparator 135 is different.
The proximity sensor 133 detects the proximity of an object and outputs a voltage corresponding to the degree of proximity. Note that the voltage output by the proximity sensor 133 is larger as the object is closer and smaller as the object is farther away. The proximity sensor 133 can be realized by, for example, a pyroelectric infrared sensor, a capacitance sensor, an ultrasonic proximity sensor, or the like.
The amplifier 134 amplifies the voltage output from the proximity sensor 133.
The comparator 135 outputs a detection signal indicating ON when the voltage output from the amplifier 134 is equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold, and indicating OFF when the voltage is lower than the predetermined threshold.
That is, by bringing a hand or the like closer to the proximity sensor 133, the output voltage of the proximity sensor 133 increases, and the detection signal output by the comparator 132 when the output voltage amplified by the amplifier 134 becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold value. Turns on.

FIG. 25 is a diagram showing the arrangement position of the proximity sensor 133.
The proximity sensor 133 is disposed adjacent to the LCD display unit 110 of the electronic shelf label 100 as shown in FIG. Thus, by arranging the proximity sensor 133 on the surface of the electronic shelf label 100, the store clerk can perform the operation without removing the electronic shelf label from the display shelf at the time of switching the display, thereby reducing the work efficiency. Can be prevented. Further, since the proximity sensor 133 is embedded in the housing of the electronic shelf label 100 and the position of the proximity sensor 133 is not easily noticed by the customer, it is possible to prevent malfunctions due to mischief or careless operation.
FIG. 25A is a diagram illustrating an example in which the electronic shelf label 100 includes one proximity sensor 133. Thereby, the same operation as that of the first embodiment can be performed.
FIG. 25B is a diagram illustrating an example in which the electronic shelf label 100 includes a plurality of proximity sensors 133. Thereby, the same operation as that of the second embodiment or the third embodiment can be performed.

  As shown in FIG. 25B, when the electronic shelf label 100 includes a plurality of proximity sensors 133, the comparator 135 determines whether there is a proximity object in accordance with the change in the level of the signal output from each of the proximity sensors 133. The detection threshold value is changed, and a detection signal indicating the presence / absence of a proximity object is output by comparing the signal output from each of the proximity sensors 133 with the threshold value, and each of the proximity sensors 133 outputs By including a determination unit that determines the moving direction of the proximity object from the detection signal to be detected, the movement direction of the proximity object can be detected. Thereby, the direction in which the user traces the proximity sensor 133 of the electronic shelf label 100 can be detected, and the electronic shelf label 100 can accept an input with a more complicated input pattern.

As described above, the embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to the above, and various design changes and the like can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. It is possible to
For example, in the present embodiment, an example in which processing is not performed when the pattern of the detection signal output by the input device unit 130 of the electronic shelf label 100 does not match the input pattern has been described. You may make it perform the process for customers, such as performing the process to call.

  In the above-described embodiment, the case where the storage unit 520 of the management server device 500 stores each table and the CPU 530 of the management server device 500 executes the program to configure each processing unit has been described. For example, each table and each processing unit may be provided in another apparatus.

  In the above-described embodiment, the case where the comparators 132, 1322, and 135 switch ON / OFF of the detection signal based on the output voltage of the photovoltaic cell 131 or the amplifier 134 has been described. , 135 may switch the detection signal ON / OFF based on, for example, power or current.

In the above embodiment, the electronic shelf label 100 attached to the shelf of a retail store such as a supermarket or a convenience store has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to the electronic shelf label, and is a product sold at a retail store. You may use as an information display apparatus which displays information other than information, such as.
For example, in a warehouse, it is used as a label or tag for electronically displaying information indicating the contents of the stored item on a shelf for storing the stored item, a box containing the stored item, or the stored item itself. May be.
Further, in the business of handling documents such as a bank, it may be arranged in a paper storage area and used as a display device for displaying a description of the paper and the remaining number of sheets. Further, in a factory or the like, it may be attached to a panel on which a work instruction to a worker is displayed or a shelf on which a part is placed, and may be used as a label or a tag for electronically displaying information such as part classification.

  The electronic shelf label 100 and the management server device 500 described above have a computer system inside. The operation of each processing unit described above is stored in a computer-readable recording medium in the form of a program, and the above processing is performed by the computer reading and executing this program. Here, the computer-readable recording medium means a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, a semiconductor memory, or the like. Alternatively, the computer program may be distributed to the computer via a communication line, and the computer that has received the distribution may execute the program.

  The program may be for realizing a part of the functions described above. Furthermore, what can implement | achieve the function mentioned above in combination with the program already recorded on the computer system, and what is called a difference file (difference program) may be sufficient.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100, 100-1-100-M ... Electronic shelf label 110 ... LCD display part 120 ... Memory 130 ... Input device part 131 ... Photocell 132 ... Comparator 140 ... Wireless communication part 150 ... CPU 151 ... Output signal control part 152 ... Input timer Unit 153 ... Display switching unit 154 ... Display timer unit 200 ... Large electronic shelf labels 300, 300-1 to 300-N ... Relay machine 400 ... Base station device 500 ... Management server device 510 ... Communication unit 520 ... Storage unit 521 ... Input Pattern table 522 ... Template table 523 ... Product information table 530 ... CPU 531 ... Process determination unit 532 ... Process execution unit 600 ... Store server device

Claims (9)

An information display system comprising an information display device and a management server device,
The information display device includes:
An output unit that detects a change related to the state of the device and outputs a voltage or a current according to the change;
A signal output unit that outputs a detection signal based on the amount of voltage or current output by the output unit and a predetermined threshold;
The information display device or the management server device is
An information display system comprising: a process execution unit that executes a predetermined process only when a pattern of a detection signal output from the signal output unit matches a predetermined input pattern.   The signal output unit outputs a detection signal indicating whether or not there is a change in the state of the device according to a case where an amount of voltage or current output from the output unit exceeds a predetermined threshold or falls below a predetermined threshold. The information display system according to claim 1. The output unit is composed of a photovoltaic cell,
The information display system according to claim 2, wherein the information display device charges the secondary battery using a voltage or a current output from the output unit.   The information display system according to claim 1, wherein the output unit includes a proximity sensor and is provided within a shape range of the information display device. A plurality of the output unit and the signal output unit,
The input pattern indicates a combination of the plurality of signal output units,
The process execution unit executes a predetermined process only when a combination of the signal output units that output the detection signal matches the input pattern.
The information display system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the information display system is characterized in that: The input pattern indicates an ordered combination of the plurality of signal output units;
The process execution unit executes a predetermined process only when the signal output unit that outputs the detection signal and the signal output unit indicated by the input pattern match in order.
The information display system according to claim 5. The input pattern indicates an order of output intervals of a plurality of detection signals;
The process execution unit executes a predetermined process only when the order of output intervals of detection signals by the signal output unit matches the input pattern.
The information display system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein An information display device for displaying information,
An output unit that detects a change related to the state of the device and outputs a voltage or a current according to the change;
A signal output unit that outputs a detection signal based on the amount of voltage or current output by the output unit and a predetermined threshold;
A process execution unit that executes a predetermined process only when a pattern of a detection signal output by the detection unit matches a predetermined input pattern;
An information display device comprising:   An electronic shelf label comprising the information display device according to claim 8.

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