JP6133724B2 - Electronic shelf label system - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an electronic shelf label system.

  Conventionally, electronic shelf label systems have been adopted in stores such as supermarkets and convenience stores.

  In the electronic shelf label system, a plurality of portable electronic shelf labels that display product information such as selling prices are installed at a store floor or the like. Each electronic shelf label is linked (associated) with a product (display target product) on which the electronic shelf label displays product information, and information regarding the link is stored in an electronic shelf label server installed in the store. Each electronic shelf label receives the product information of the display target product transmitted from the electronic shelf label server via the communication device, and updates the display content based on the received information. When the display target product is suspended, the electronic shelf label can be used for displaying the product information of other products so that the electronic shelf label and the product can be unlinked. Is released), and the information regarding the link stored in the electronic shelf label server is deleted. (For example, patent document 1 (Unexamined-Japanese-Patent No. 2008-282426)).

  In practice, however, store employees may forget to unlink electronic shelf labels. For example, when a store where an electronic shelf label E is installed (hereinafter referred to as store X) is operated by a company or the like that owns a plurality of stores, the display target product of the electronic shelf label E is sold. When the electronic shelf label E is not used immediately at the store X, the electronic shelf label E is moved to another store (hereinafter referred to as the store Y) without being unlinked. It may happen that the electronic shelf label E is used in the store Y.

  In the electronic shelf label system disclosed in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-282426), the electronic shelf label server in the store X has the electronic shelf label E installed in the store unless the electronic shelf label E and the product are unlinked. Recognized as being used in X. Therefore, when the electronic shelf label server of the store X cannot communicate with the electronic shelf label E, the electronic shelf label E is actually used in another store Y even though the electronic shelf label E is used in another store Y. In order to search, the store X performs an operation called roaming search.

  By the way, in such an electronic shelf label system, a battery-operated electronic shelf label is used in order to increase the degree of freedom of the installation location of the electronic shelf label and improve the workability of the installation work of the electronic shelf label. There are many.

  If such a battery-type electronic shelf label is always in a state in which a signal from a communication device can be received, the battery is consumed in a short period of time. Therefore, the electronic shelf label is usually placed in a standby mode with low power consumption (a mode in which a signal from a communication device cannot be received). In the standby mode, the electronic shelf label periodically transitions to a state in which a signal from the communication device (this signal is hereinafter referred to as a wake-up signal) can be received for a short time. The electronic shelf label transitions from the standby mode to the reception mode in which various information transmitted can be received only when the wake-up signal is received. Furthermore, if the received information is information addressed to itself, the electronic shelf label transmits a signal (ACK signal) for notifying the communication device that the information addressed to itself has been received. The electronic shelf label updates the display content if the transmitted information addressed to itself is information to be displayed on the electronic shelf label (for example, product information such as a selling price). Thereby, the electronic shelf label can receive the information addressed to itself while suppressing the consumption of the battery, and can display the information as necessary.

  In the roaming search of the electronic shelf label E by the electronic shelf label server of the store X described above, the electronic shelf label server of the store X specifically performs the following operation. The electronic shelf label server of the store X transmits the above-described wake-up signal via the communication device, and then transmits information addressed to the electronic shelf label E. Since the electronic shelf label in the store X cannot recognize which electronic shelf label the information transmitted subsequently is the information at the time of receiving the wake-up signal, all the electronic shelf labels that have received the wake-up signal are A transition is made to the reception mode described above. The roaming search of the electronic shelf label E by the electronic shelf label server of the store X is performed by transmitting an ACK signal (a signal for notifying that the electronic shelf label E has received the information addressed to itself) transmitted from the electronic shelf label E. When the electronic shelf label server receives it via the machine, the process ends.

  However, when the roaming search is actually performed on the electronic shelf label E installed in the store Y (not present in the store X), the electronic shelf label server of the store X You will not receive a response. Therefore, the electronic shelf label server of the store X repeatedly performs roaming search. As a result, in order to search for the electronic shelf label E that does not exist in the store X, the electronic shelf label used in the store X frequently transits to the reception mode, and the battery is wasted. Further, in order to search for the electronic shelf label E that does not exist in the store X, the communication device transmits a meaningless signal, and transmission of product information to the electronic shelf label may occur.

  In response to such a problem, if a response from the electronic shelf label that is the target of the roaming search is not obtained even after performing the roaming search, it is possible to forcibly unlink the electronic shelf label. However, there may be cases where the electronic shelf label is simply placed in a place where the communication state in the store is poor, and if such a measure is taken easily, problems such as erroneous display may occur in the electronic shelf label. .

  The problem of the present invention is that when an electronic shelf label used in one area (for example, store X) is used in another area (for example, store Y), the electronic shelf label is originally installed. It is an object of the present invention to provide an electronic shelf label system that can suppress the occurrence of useless communication associated with the movement of an electronic shelf label to another area in the area.

  An electronic shelf label system according to the present invention includes a first electronic shelf label group, a second electronic shelf label group, and a management device. The first electronic shelf label group is arranged in the first area. The second electronic shelf label group is arranged in a second area different from the first area. The management device manages the first electronic shelf label group and the second electronic shelf label group. When the third electronic shelf label that is deployed in the first area, belongs to the first electronic shelf label group, and is linked to the first product is linked to the second product in the second area, the management device The link between the third electronic shelf label and the first product in the first area is forcibly released, and the third electronic shelf label is managed as belonging to the second electronic shelf label group.

  Here, when the third electronic shelf label linked to the first product in the first area is linked to the second product in the second area, the link in the first area is forcibly released ( Unlinked). After unlinking, it is not necessary to perform a roaming search for searching for the third electronic shelf label that does not exist in the first area, and the occurrence of useless communication in the first area can be suppressed.

  In the electronic shelf label system according to the present invention, the fourth electronic shelf label that is arranged in the first area, belongs to the first electronic shelf label group, and is linked to the third product is connected to the fourth product in the first area. In the case of linking, the management device may permit the linking of the fourth electronic shelf label and the fourth product only after the user cancels the linking of the fourth electronic shelf label and the third product. desirable.

  Here, it is prohibited to newly link the fourth electronic shelf label linked with the third product in the same area without releasing (unlinking) the fourth electronic shelf label. The possibility of changing the product linked to the fourth electronic shelf label due to an erroneous operation can be reduced. Therefore, it is easy to prevent unintended information from being erroneously displayed on the electronic shelf label.

  In the electronic shelf label system according to the present invention, it is desirable that the management device stores the identification code and the product code of the product linked to each electronic shelf label in association with each other in the database. The identification code is a set of an area code unique to each area where the first electronic shelf label group and the second electronic shelf label group are arranged, and a shelf label code unique to each electronic shelf label. It is desirable.

  Here, when the electronic shelf label and the product code are associated with each other and stored in the database, an identification code that is a set of the shelf label code and the area code is used. Even if the shelf label code is the same, if the area code is different, it is determined that the identification code is different. Therefore, it is easy to perform processing for storing the same electronic shelf label in association with a plurality of product codes. is there. In other words, it is easy to link the third electronic shelf label linked to the first product in the first area to the second product in the second area. Then, by forcibly releasing the link between the third electronic shelf label and the first product, it is not necessary to perform a roaming search for searching for the third electronic shelf label that does not exist in the first area. Generation of useless communication in the area can be suppressed.

  Further, in the electronic shelf label system according to the present invention, the management device associates a shelf label code unique to each electronic shelf label and information related to the total use period of each electronic shelf label and stores them in the database. desirable.

  Here, the information on the total shelf life of the electronic shelf label is stored in association with the shelf label code of the electronic shelf label, so even if the electronic shelf label is moved to another area, the total shelf life is correctly recognized. can do. Therefore, it is easy to correctly recognize the deterioration state of the electronic shelf label.

  In the electronic shelf label system according to the present invention, when the third electronic shelf label linked to the first product in the first area is linked to the second product in the second area, the link in the first area is performed. The attachment is forcibly released (unlinked). After unlinking, it is not necessary to perform a roaming search for searching for the third electronic shelf label that does not exist in the first area, and the occurrence of useless communication in the first area can be suppressed.

It is a figure which shows the electronic shelf label system which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the electronic shelf label contained in the electronic shelf label system which concerns on FIG. It is a figure which shows the external appearance of the electronic shelf label contained in the electronic shelf label system which concerns on FIG. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of the electronic shelf label server of the electronic shelf label system which concerns on FIG. It is an example of the table memorize | stored in the shelf label usage information database of the server memory | storage part of the electronic shelf label server which concerns on FIG. It is an example of the table memorize | stored in the shelf label total use period database of the server memory | storage part of the electronic shelf label server which concerns on FIG. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of the electronic shelf label of the electronic shelf label system which concerns on FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the link process of the electronic shelf label system which concerns on FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the unlink process of the electronic shelf label system which concerns on FIG. It is a figure which shows the electronic shelf label system which concerns on the modification A. It is an example of the table which linked | related the shelf label code and the product code memorize | stored in the local electronic shelf label system of the electronic shelf label system which concerns on FIG.

  Hereinafter, an electronic shelf label system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  The electronic shelf label system 100 according to the present embodiment is an example, and the electronic shelf label system and the electronic shelf label are not limited to the contents described below. The electronic shelf label system can adopt other modes as long as it does not contradict the gist of the invention.

(1) Overall Configuration The electronic shelf label system 100 is a system that manages the electronic shelf labels 40 arranged in a plurality of areas by one electronic shelf label server 10. Specifically, the electronic shelf label system 100 is a system that manages the electronic shelf labels 40 deployed in a plurality of stores (for example, supermarkets) by one electronic shelf label server 10. In particular, in the present embodiment, the electronic shelf label system 100 manages the electronic shelf labels 40 deployed in the two stores A and B by one electronic shelf label server 10. The electronic shelf label system 100 includes a plurality of electronic shelf label servers 10 that store product information of products sold in stores A and B, and a plurality of products that are deployed corresponding to products displayed on the sales floors of stores A and B, etc. The electronic shelf label 40 is displayed, and the product information of the corresponding product is displayed on each electronic shelf label 40.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the electronic shelf label system 100 mainly includes an electronic shelf label server 10, a plurality of transceivers 30 installed in each of stores A and B, and a plurality of electronic devices installed in each of stores A and B. A shelf label 40 and a handy terminal 50 used in each store A and B are provided. The plurality of electronic shelf labels 40 deployed in the store A constitute a first electronic shelf label group G1, and the plurality of electronic shelf labels 40 deployed in the store B constitute a second electronic shelf label group G2.

  The electronic shelf label 40 is a portable, battery-driven display device. Each electronic shelf label 40 is given a unique identification code (shelf label code) for identifying the electronic shelf label 40 from other electronic shelf labels 40. Each electronic shelf label 40 is arranged in the vicinity of a corresponding (linked) product P among a plurality of types of products P displayed on the sales floors of stores A and B (see FIG. 2). Product information regarding the corresponding product P is displayed on a display unit 41 (described later) of each electronic shelf label 40 (see FIG. 3). The product information is various information related to the product P, and includes, for example, a product name, a sales price, a price per unit amount, and the like.

  The electronic shelf label server 10 is a computer that controls the electronic shelf label system 100. The electronic shelf label server 10 manages the first electronic shelf label group G1 and the second electronic shelf label group G2 in an integrated manner. The electronic shelf label server 10 stores product information to be displayed on the electronic shelf label 40 belonging to the first electronic shelf label group G1 or the second electronic shelf label group G2. The electronic shelf label server 10 sends product information (specifically, image data of product information) to the electronic shelf label 40 when the electronic shelf label system 100 is activated or when the display change of the electronic shelf label 40 is necessary. Instructs transceiver 30 to transmit.

  A plurality of transceivers 30 are installed in stores A and B, respectively. The transceiver 30 transmits and receives various signals to and from a communication unit 42 described later of the electronic shelf label 40 using infrared rays. The transceiver 30 is connected to the electronic shelf label server 10 via the network 2 including the Internet and a LAN (Local Area Network). For example, the transceiver 30 transmits image data of product information transmitted from the electronic shelf label server 10 to the transceiver 30 to the electronic shelf label 40 using infrared rays in accordance with a command from the electronic shelf label server 10. The transceiver 30 receives the infrared signal transmitted from the electronic shelf label 40, converts the received signal into an electrical signal, and transmits the signal to the electronic shelf label server 10 via the network 2.

  The handy terminal 50 is a portable information terminal used for information collection and the like. The handy terminal 50 is configured to be able to read an identification code such as a barcode attached to the electronic shelf label 40 or the product P. The handy terminal 50 is connected to the electronic shelf label server 10 via a network (not shown) such as the Internet or a LAN (Local Area Network). The handy terminal 50 is used, for example, when linking the electronic shelf label 40 and the product P or releasing (unlinking) the linking. Specifically, the handy terminal 50 transmits a link request / unlink request to the electronic shelf label server 10 when linking / unlinking the electronic shelf label 40 and the product P. The link request / unlink request will be described later.

(2) Detailed Configuration Hereinafter, the electronic shelf label server 10, the transceiver 30, and the electronic shelf label 40 will be described in detail.

(2-1) Electronic shelf label server The electronic shelf label server 10 is an example of a management device. The electronic shelf label server 10 is a computer that controls the electronic shelf label system 100 including the electronic shelf label 40. The electronic shelf label server 10 is installed in a place different from the store A and the store B (for example, the head office of a company that operates the store A and the store B). However, the installation location of the electronic shelf label server 10 is an example, and the electronic shelf label server 10 may be installed in the store A or the store B.

  The electronic shelf label server 10 is connected to the transceivers 30 installed in the store A and the store B via the network 2 including the Internet and a LAN (Local Area Network). The electronic shelf label server 10 is connected to a handy terminal 50 used in the store A and the store B via a network including the Internet and a LAN (not shown).

  The electronic shelf label server 10 transmits various information to the electronic shelf label 40 via the transceiver 30 as one of its functions. For example, the electronic shelf label server 10 transmits image data of product information to be displayed on the display unit 41 of the electronic shelf label 40 to the electronic shelf label 40 via the transceiver 30. The electronic shelf label server 10 transmits information to the electronic shelf labels 40 belonging to the first electronic shelf label group G1 via the transceiver 30 installed in the store A. The electronic shelf label server 10 transmits information to the electronic shelf labels 40 belonging to the second electronic shelf label group G2 via the transceiver 30 installed in the store B. The electronic shelf label 40 belonging to the first electronic shelf label group G1 is linked (associated) with the product P placed in the store A using the handy terminal 50 in the store A, and the first electronic shelf label 40 It means the electronic shelf label 40 stored in the server storage unit 14 as the electronic shelf label 40 belonging to the tag group G1. The electronic shelf label 40 belonging to the second electronic shelf label group G2 is linked to the product P placed in the store B by using the handy terminal 50 in the store B, and the electronic shelf label 40 belonging to the second electronic shelf label group G2 The electronic shelf label 40 stored in the server storage unit 14 as the shelf label 40 is meant. Originally, the electronic shelf label 40 belonging to the first electronic shelf label group G1 is deployed in the store A, and the electronic shelf label 40 belonging to the second electronic shelf label group G2 is deployed in the store B. There is a possibility of moving from one store where the shelf label 40 was originally deployed to the other store without releasing the link (unlink).

  The electronic shelf label server 10 mainly includes a server communication unit 11, a server display unit 12, a server input unit 13, a server storage unit 14, and a server control unit 15 (see FIG. 4).

(2-1-1) Server Communication Unit The server communication unit 11 is a communication interface for enabling communication between the electronic shelf label server 10, the transceiver 30, and the handy terminal 50. In addition, the server communication unit 11 is configured to be able to communicate with devices outside the electronic shelf label system 100 (for example, a POS system server installed together with the electronic shelf label system 100) (not shown).

  The server communication unit 11 transmits various types of information to the transceiver 30 in accordance with instructions from the server control unit 15. The information transmitted from the server communication unit 11 to the transceiver 30 includes product information image data. Information such as image data of product information transmitted to the transceiver 30 is transmitted from the transceiver 30 to the electronic shelf label 40. Further, the server communication unit 11 receives an ACK signal, which will be described later, transmitted from the electronic shelf label 40 via the transceiver 30. When receiving the ACK signal, the server communication unit 11 transmits a message to that effect to the server control unit 15. Further, when the server communication unit 11 receives a link request / unlink request from the handy terminal 50 transmitted via a network (not shown), the server communication unit 11 transmits the link request / unlink request to the server control unit 15. The link request / unlink request will be described later.

(2-1-2) Server display unit The server display unit 12 is a liquid crystal display. Various information related to the electronic shelf label system 100 can be displayed on the server display unit 12.

(2-1-3) Server Input Unit The server input unit 13 is a mouse and a keyboard. An administrator of the electronic shelf label system 100 can input various commands and various information to the electronic shelf label server 10 via the server input unit 13.

(2-1-4) Server storage unit The server storage unit 14 is mainly configured by a ROM, a RAM, and a hard disk.

  The server storage unit 14 stores various programs executed by the server control unit 15 described later. Further, the product information (for example, product name, normal sales price, special sales price, discount rate, price per unit quantity, etc.) displayed on the electronic shelf label 40 is stored in the server storage unit 14 for each product code of the product P. It is remembered. The product code is an identification code unique to the product P attached to the product P as a barcode or the like.

  The server storage unit 14 includes a shelf label usage information database 14a and a shelf label total usage period database 14b as databases.

(2-1-4-1) Shelf Label Usage Information Database The shelf label usage information database 14a is a database in which information on the current usage status of the electronic shelf label 40 is stored. Specifically, in the shelf label usage information database 14a, there are a plurality of one information group configured by associating one identification code, one shelf label code, one product code, and one link date and time with each other. A table in which rows are arranged is stored (see FIG. 5).

  The shelf label code is an identification code unique to each electronic shelf label 40. The product code is an identification code unique to each product P. The identification code is an identification code generated when the electronic shelf label 40 and the product P are linked. The identification code is created by combining an area code unique to the store where each electronic shelf label 40 is deployed and a shelf label code unique to the electronic shelf label 40. That is, the identification code includes an area code unique to each store A, B where the first electronic shelf label group G1 and the second electronic shelf label group G2 are arranged, and a shelf label code unique to each electronic shelf label 40. Created by setting,. The link date and time represents the date and time when the electronic shelf label 40 and the product P are linked. In other words, the link date / time represents the date / time when the information group including the link date / time is stored in the shelf label use information database 14a. The shelf label use information database 14a stores data in order from the information group with the oldest link date and time.

  A specific example will be described in which the table of FIG. 5 is stored in the shelf label usage information database 14a. In FIG. 5, the number 101 is used as the area code for the store A, and the number 102 is used as the area code for the store B.

  In the information group in the second row of FIG. 5, information “101123456” as the identification code, information “123456” as the shelf label code, information “987765321” as the product code, and “2013/09” as the link date and time are included. / 01 09:00 "is stored respectively. The identification code is created by combining (sequentially arranging) the area code “101” and the shelf label code “123456”. From the information group on the second line in FIG. 5, the electronic shelf label 40 with the shelf label code “123456” has the product code “987654321” using the handy terminal 50 installed in the store A with the area code “101”. It can be understood that the product P is linked to “2013/09/01 09:00:00”. Further, from the information group (particularly the identification code) in the second row in FIG. 5, it is assumed that the electronic shelf label 40 with the shelf label code “123456” belongs to the first electronic shelf label group G1 by the electronic shelf label server 10. You can see that it is managed.

  When the electronic shelf label 40 and the product P are unlinked, the corresponding information group is deleted from the shelf label use information database 14a. Referring to FIG. 5, for example, in store A, when the electronic shelf label 40 with the shelf label code “123456” and the product P with the product code “987654321” are unlinked, the information on the second line The group is deleted from the shelf label usage information database 14a.

(2-1-4-2) Shelf Label Total Use Period Database The shelf label total use period database 14b is a database in which information on the total use period of each electronic shelf label 40 is stored. Specifically, in the shelf label total usage period database 14b, one information group configured by associating the shelf label code of each electronic shelf label 40 with the use start date and time of each electronic shelf label 40 is as follows. A table arranged in a plurality of rows is stored (see FIG. 6). The use start date and time of the electronic shelf label 40 means the date and time when the electronic shelf label 40 is first linked to any product P in any store A or B. The contents stored in the shelf label total usage period database 14 b are retained regardless of the usage status of the electronic shelf label 40. For example, when an electronic shelf label 40 is unlinked with the product P linked first, or when it is moved to a store different from the store where it was initially installed and linked with another product P Even if it exists, the information memorize | stored in the shelf label total use period database 14b is hold | maintained.

(2-1-5) Server Control Unit The server control unit 15 is mainly composed of a CPU. The server control unit 15 performs various controls of the electronic shelf label system 100 by executing a program stored in the server storage unit 14.

  For example, the server control unit 15 controls the server communication unit 11 to transmit various information to each electronic shelf label 40. For example, the server control unit 15 instructs the server communication unit 11 to transmit the image data of the product information to the transceiver 30 when the product information to be displayed on a certain electronic shelf label 40 needs to be changed. Note that when the product information displayed on the electronic shelf label 40 needs to be changed, for example, in the server storage unit 14, the product P linked to the electronic shelf label 40 (in the shelf label use information database 14a, This is when the product information of the product P) having the product code linked to the shelf label code of the electronic shelf label 40 is updated. For example, when the display change of the electronic shelf label 40 is necessary, the price of the product P linked to the electronic shelf label 40 is changed from the normal selling price to the special selling price.

  Specifically, the server control unit 15 transmits various types of information to each electronic shelf label 40 in the following procedure. First, the server control unit 15 instructs the server communication unit 11 to transmit a wake-up signal transmission command to the transceiver 30. The wake-up signal transmission command is a signal for instructing the transceiver 30 to transmit a wake-up signal (wake-up command) to the electronic shelf label 40. The wake-up signal is a signal for notifying the electronic shelf label 40 that information (for example, image data of product information) will be subsequently transmitted. This is a signal for requesting a transition from a sleep mode that cannot receive product information to a wake-up mode that can receive product information. The sleep mode and wakeup mode will be described later. Next, the server control unit 15 instructs the server communication unit 11 to transmit information to be transmitted to the electronic shelf label 40 to the transceiver 30 following the wake-up signal transmission command. The server control unit 15 uses the shelf label use information database 14a to determine an identifier for determining whether or not the electronic shelf label 40 that has received information via the transceiver 30 is addressed to itself. Obtain and send with information. For example, when image data of product information is transmitted from the server control unit 15, the identifier is a shelf label code linked to the product code of the product P whose product information is to be changed from the shelf label use information database 14a. Acquired by reading. The electronic shelf label 40 that has received the same identifier as the own shelf label code together with the information transmits a signal called an ACK signal to the electronic shelf label server 10 via the transceiver 30 as will be described later. When the server communication unit 11 receives the ACK signal via the transceiver 30, the server control unit 15 recognizes that the transmitted information is received by the electronic shelf label 40 that is the information transmission target.

  Note that the server control unit 15 performs an operation called roaming search when the server communication unit 11 cannot communicate with the electronic shelf label 40. In the case where communication with the electronic shelf label 40 is not possible, information (for example, image data of product information) and an identifier are transmitted from the server communication unit 11 to the electronic shelf label 40 via the transceiver 30. This is a case where the server communication unit 11 does not receive the ACK signal transmitted from. In the roaming search, the server communication unit 11 sends information to the electronic shelf label 40 to be transmitted to the electronic shelf label 40 that cannot be communicated at a predetermined time interval (for example, an interval of 10 minutes or an hour). Re-send. The roaming search is repeatedly performed until the server communication unit 11 can communicate with the electronic shelf label 40 to which information is to be transmitted.

  In addition, the server control unit 15 performs link according to the link request / unlink request between the electronic shelf label 40 and the product P transmitted from the handy terminal 50 installed in the store A or the store B via a network (not shown). Execute processing / unlink processing. The link request requests the electronic shelf label server 10 to associate (link) the shelf label code of a certain electronic shelf label 40 with the product code of a certain product P and store it in the shelf label use information database 14a. Signal. The link request transmitted from the handy terminal 50 to the electronic shelf label server 10 includes a shelf label code and a product code to be linked as information. The unlink request is a signal that requests to cancel the link between a certain electronic shelf label 40 and a certain product P, which is stored in the shelf label use information database 14a. The unlink request transmitted from the handy terminal 50 includes the shelf label code of the electronic shelf label 40 to be unlinked as information. Details of the operation (link process / unlink process) of the server control unit 15 at the time of receiving a link request / unlink request will be described later.

(2-2) Transceiver The transceiver 30 transmits and receives signals to and from the communication unit 42 described later of the electronic shelf label 40 using infrared rays. The transceiver 30 is connected to the electronic shelf label server 10 via the network 2, and transmits and receives electrical signals to and from the electronic shelf label server 10.

  For example, the transceiver 30 is attached to the ceiling of a store where the electronic shelf label 40 is installed with a certain interval. The number of installed transceivers 30 and the installation location are determined so that the electronic shelf label 40 installed in the store can communicate with any one of the transceivers 30 via infrared communication.

  When the transceiver 30 receives the wake-up signal transmission command from the electronic shelf label server 10, the transceiver 30 transmits the wake-up signal (wake-up command) to the communication unit 42 of the electronic shelf label 40 using infrared rays. When the transceiver 30 receives information (for example, image data of product information) and an identifier to be transmitted to the electronic shelf label 40 from the electronic shelf label server 10, the transceiver 30 transmits the information to the communication unit of the electronic shelf label 40. 42 is transmitted using infrared rays. In addition, when the transceiver 30 receives an infrared signal (for example, an ACK signal described later) from the communication unit 42 of the electronic shelf label 40, the transceiver 30 converts the received infrared signal into an electrical signal, and the electronic shelf label server 10 via the network 2. To the server communication unit 11.

(2-3) Electronic shelf label The electronic shelf label 40 is arrange | positioned corresponding to each of the goods P displayed in the stores A and B, and displays the merchandise information regarding the corresponding goods P, etc. (refer FIG. 2). For example, on the electronic shelf label 40, the product name, sales price, and unit price per unit amount of the product P are displayed as product information (see FIG. 3).

  The electronic shelf labels 40 include those belonging to the first electronic shelf label group G1 deployed in the store A and those belonging to the second electronic shelf label group G2 deployed in the store B. The electronic shelf label 40 belonging to the first electronic shelf label group G1 means the electronic shelf label 40 in which the link processing between the electronic shelf label 40 and the product P is performed in the store A. The electronic shelf label 40 belonging to the second electronic shelf label group G2 means the electronic shelf label 40 in which the link process between the electronic shelf label 40 and the product P is performed in the store B. In other words, the electronic shelf labels 40 belonging to the first electronic shelf label group G1 are the electronic shelf labels 40 that are arranged in the store A at least during the link process. The electronic shelf labels 40 belonging to the second electronic shelf label group G2 are the electronic shelf labels 40 arranged in the store B at least during the link process. When the electronic shelf label 40 belonging to the first electronic shelf label group G1 or the second electronic shelf label group G2 is unlinked with the product P, it does not belong to any of the electronic shelf label groups G1, G2. It becomes.

  As shown in FIG. 7, each electronic shelf label 40 mainly has a display unit 41, a communication unit 42, a control unit 43, a storage unit 44, and a battery 45.

  The electronic shelf label 40 has a sleep mode and a wake-up mode as operation modes. The operation mode of the electronic shelf label 40 is switched by the control unit 43 as will be described later.

  The sleep mode is an operation mode in which the power consumption of the electronic shelf label 40 is minimized. When the operation mode is the sleep mode, the control unit 43 controls the battery 45 so that the display unit 41, the communication unit 42, and the storage unit 44 are supplied with the minimum power. Therefore, the function of the electronic shelf label 40 is limited in the sleep mode. When the operation mode is the sleep mode, for example, the communication unit 42 cannot receive an infrared signal except for a time (for example, about 150 microseconds per second) for checking whether or not a wake-up signal is transmitted. . Therefore, in the sleep mode, the communication unit 42 cannot receive various types of information (such as product data image data) transmitted from the transceiver 30. Further, when the operation mode is the sleep mode, for example, the display unit 41 cannot change the display.

  On the other hand, when the operation mode is the wake-up mode, the communication unit 42 can always communicate with the transceiver 30 and can receive various information such as product data image data transmitted from the transceiver 30. . Further, when the operation mode is the wake-up mode, the display unit 41 can change the display. When the operation mode is the wake-up mode, the control unit 43 controls the display unit 41, the communication unit 42, and the storage unit 44 so that sufficient power is supplied from the battery 45. The power consumption of the electronic shelf label 40 is larger than in the case of.

(2-3-1) Display Unit The display unit 41 is a screen that displays image data and the like of product information stored in a storage unit 44 described later (see FIG. 3).

  Electronic paper is used for the display unit 41. That is, the display unit 41 is a dot matrix type display composed of a plurality of pixels arranged in a matrix. The display unit 41 is non-volatile, and can hold display contents even when power is not supplied. However, the display unit 41 is not limited to electronic paper, and for example, a liquid crystal display may be used.

(2-3-2) Communication Unit The communication unit 42 transmits and receives signals to and from the transceiver 30 using infrared rays. The communication unit 42 includes a light receiving unit 42a and a light emitting unit 42b (see FIG. 7). The light receiving unit 42a mainly includes a photodiode and an amplifier. The light emitting unit 42b mainly includes LEDs.

  The light receiving unit 42a is an example of a receiving unit. The light receiving unit 42a receives various commands such as a wake-up signal and various information such as product data image data transmitted from the electronic shelf label server 10 via the transceiver 30 as infrared signals. In addition, the light receiving unit 42 a converts the received infrared signal into an electrical signal and transmits it to the control unit 43.

  The light emitting unit 42 b transmits various signals to the transceiver 30 in accordance with instructions from the control unit 43. For example, the light emitting unit 42b transmits a signal (ACK signal) for notifying the electronic shelf label server 10 that the light receiving unit 42a has received the information addressed to itself by an instruction from the control unit 43 using infrared rays. Send to.

(2-3-3) Control Unit The control unit 43 is mainly configured by a CPU. The control unit 43 is electrically connected to the display unit 41, the communication unit 42, the storage unit 44, and the battery 45 (see FIG. 7).

  The control unit 43 controls each unit of the electronic shelf label 40 by executing a program stored in the storage unit 44 described later. Specifically, for example, the control unit 43 performs the following control.

  In the sleep mode, the control unit 43 controls the communication unit 42 to periodically start for only a short time, and causes the communication unit 42 to receive a wake-up signal (wake-up command) transmitted from the transceiver 30. When the communication unit 42 receives the wake-up signal, the control unit 43 changes the operation mode of the electronic shelf label 40 from the sleep mode to the wake-up mode.

  Since the wake-up signal is not a signal for the individual electronic shelf label 40, the operation mode of the electronic shelf label 40 that has received the wake-up signal even if the information transmitted thereafter is not the information addressed to the electronic shelf label 40. Is shifted from the sleep mode to the wake-up mode. Therefore, when the roaming search as described above is frequently performed, the operation mode of the electronic shelf label 40 is frequently changed from the sleep mode to the wake-up mode, and the battery 45 is consumed quickly. .

  In the wake-up mode, the control unit 43 controls the communication unit 42 to receive information such as image data of product information and an identifier transmitted from the transceiver 30. The identifier is a shelf label code of the electronic shelf label 40 to be transmitted. When the communication unit 42 receives the information, the control unit 43 uses the identifier transmitted together with the received information as the shelf label code stored in the storage unit 44 (the shelf label of the electronic shelf label 40 to which the control unit 43 belongs). Code). When the identifier and the shelf label code stored in the storage unit 44 match, the control unit 43 determines that the information addressed to itself (addressed to the electronic shelf label 40 to which the control unit 43 belongs) has been received. To do. When determining that the information addressed to itself is received, control unit 43 controls communication unit 42 to cause transceiver 30 to transmit a signal (ACK signal) notifying that the information addressed to itself has been received. Then, the control unit 43 causes the storage unit 44 to store the information addressed to itself received by the communication unit 42. Furthermore, when the transmitted information is image data of product information, the control unit 43 instructs the display unit 41 to change the display so that the image data is displayed.

(2-3-4) Storage Unit The storage unit 44 is a storage unit configured by a nonvolatile memory such as an EEPROM. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a volatile memory such as a RAM may be used for the storage unit 44.

  In addition to a program for the control unit 43 to control each part of the electronic shelf label 40, the storage unit 44 is transmitted from a shelf label code, which is a unique identification code of the electronic shelf label 40, and the electronic shelf label server 10. The image data of the merchandise information is stored.

(2-3-5) Battery The battery 45 supplies driving power to the display unit 41, the communication unit 42, the control unit 43, and the storage unit 44 of the electronic shelf label 40. Each of the display unit 41, the communication unit 42, and the storage unit 44 is provided with a switch (not shown) such as an FET. The control unit 43 controls the power supply to the display unit 41, the communication unit 42, and the storage unit 44 by controlling these switches.

  When the operation mode of the electronic shelf label 40 is switched to the sleep mode, the control unit 43 turns off the switch so that the display unit 41, the communication unit 42, and the storage unit 44 are connected from the battery 45. Control is performed so that power is not supplied. However, even when the operation mode is switched to the sleep mode, the control unit 43 is supplied with power from the battery 45 for a predetermined time (time for receiving the wake-up signal) to the communication unit 42. The switch is controlled so that

(3) Link Processing Link processing in the electronic shelf label system 100 will be described using the flowchart of FIG. The link processing is mainly processing for linking (associating) the electronic shelf label 40 with the product P on which the electronic shelf label 40 displays product information. Specifically, the link processing mainly includes the shelf label code of the electronic shelf label 40 and the product P of the product P for which the electronic shelf label 40 displays the product information in the shelf label use information database 14a of the server storage unit 14. This is a process of linking and storing codes. The link process is required, for example, when a new product is displayed on the sales floor and an electronic shelf label 40 that displays product information of the new product is displayed beside the new product.

  First, in step S101, the operator sets the operation mode of the handy terminal 50 to a link mode for transmitting a link request to the electronic shelf label server 10, and then the shelf of the electronic shelf label 40 is set in the handy terminal 50. The tag code and the product code of the product P for displaying the product information on the electronic shelf label 40 are acquired. Specifically, the worker gives a bar code indicating the shelf label code of the electronic shelf label 40 attached to the electronic shelf label 40 (for example, attached to the back of the electronic shelf label 40) to the handy terminal 50. Let me read. Further, the operator causes the handy terminal 50 to read a barcode indicating the product code of the product P attached to the product P. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S102.

  In step S102, the shelf label code and the product code acquired in step S101 are transmitted together with the link request from the handy terminal 50 to the electronic shelf label server 10. In step S102, the handy terminal 50 or the handy terminal 50 and the electronic shelf label server 10 are used to identify whether the shelf label code and the product code are transmitted from the handy terminal 50 installed in the store A or B. An area code unique to the store is transmitted to the electronic shelf label server 10 from a device that relays the message.

  In step S <b> 103, the server control unit 15 generates an identification code using the shelf label code and the area code received by the server communication unit 11 via the transceiver 30. Specifically, the server control unit 15 generates the identification code by sequentially arranging the area code number and the shelf label code number. For example, if the area code is “101” and the shelf label code is “123456”, an identification code “101123456” is generated.

  In step S104, the server control unit 15 refers to the shelf label use information database 14a of the server storage unit 14 and determines whether an information group including the same identification code as the identification code generated in step S103 is stored. .

  If there is an information group including the same identification code as the identification code generated in step S103 in the shelf label usage information database 14a, the process proceeds to step S105. The fact that an information group including the same identification code as the identification code generated in step S103 exists in the shelf label usage information database 14a means that the electronic shelf label 40 is already linked to another product P at the same store. It means that it is attached.

  For example, when the link processing of the electronic shelf label 40 is performed in the store A, it is determined that there is an information group including the same identification code as the identification code generated in step S103 in the shelf label use information database 14a. In this case, if the electronic shelf label 40 (an example of the fourth electronic shelf label) that is being linked already belongs to the first electronic shelf label group G1 and is deployed in the store A, the electronic shelf label server 10 It means being recognized. In addition, the electronic shelf label 40 (an example of the fourth electronic shelf label) being linked is already linked and stored with a certain product P (an example of the third product) in the shelf label use information database 14a. Means that. In this case, the server control unit 15 prohibits writing to the shelf label usage information database 14a. Further, the server control unit 15 notifies the worker that the electronic shelf label 40 (an example of the fourth electronic shelf label) is already linked to another product P (an example of the third product). Then, a command for displaying the fact on a display (not shown) of the handy terminal 50 is transmitted to the handy terminal 50 via the server communication unit 11. In this case, an electronic shelf label 40 (an example of a fourth electronic shelf label) to be linked and a product P (currently linked to the electronic shelf label 40 (an example of a fourth electronic shelf label) As long as the link with the example of the third product is not released by the operator (unless the unlink process is performed), the electronic shelf label 40 (an example of the fourth electronic shelf label) and the new product P (an example of the fourth product) ) Is not allowed.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S104 that there is no identification code identical to the identification code generated in step S103 in the shelf label usage information database 14a, the process proceeds to step S106. In step S106, the server control unit 15 sets the identification code created in step S103, the shelf label code and the product code acquired in step S102, and the current date and time (date and time when the link process is performed) as one item. The information is written in the shelf label usage information database 14a as an information group. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S107.

  In step S107, it is determined whether duplicate shelf label codes exist in the shelf label usage information database 14a. That is, here, among the shelf label codes stored in the shelf label usage information database 14a before the execution of step S106, the same one as the shelf label code written in the shelf label usage information database 14a in step S106. It is determined whether or not there is.

  If it is determined in step S107 that there are duplicate shelf label codes in the shelf label usage information database 14a, the process proceeds to step S108. The presence of duplicate shelf label codes in the shelf label usage information database 14a means that the electronic shelf label 40 is linked to a certain product P at another store. In this case, the server control unit 15 deletes the old information group (the previously stored information group) from the information group including the same shelf label code from the shelf label use information database 14a. A specific example will be described.

  For example, when link processing is performed for a certain electronic shelf label 40 in the store B, it is determined in step S107 that there is a duplicate shelf label code in the shelf label usage information database 14a. This is because the electronic shelf label server 10 recognizes that the electronic shelf label 40 (an example of the third electronic shelf label) belongs to the first electronic shelf label group G1 and is deployed in the store A. means. Also, the electronic shelf label server 10 links the electronic shelf label 40 (an example of the third electronic shelf label) with a certain product P (an example of the first product) in the store A, and uses the shelf label usage information database. It means that it is stored in 14a. In this case, the server control unit 15 deletes the previously stored information group from the information group having the same shelf label code, so that the electronic shelf label 40 (third electronic shelf label) in the store A is deleted. The link between an example of a tag and a certain product P (an example of a first product) is forcibly released. Note that by erasing the previously stored information, only the link between the electronic shelf label 40 (an example of the third electronic shelf label) and a certain product P (an example of the second product) in the store B can be performed. Thus, the electronic shelf label 40 is managed as belonging to the second electronic shelf label group G2 (located in the store B).

  When step S108 ends, the server control unit 15 ends the link process.

  If it is determined in step S107 that the same shelf label code does not exist in the shelf label usage information database 14a, the process proceeds to step S109.

  In step S109, it is determined whether or not there is an information group having the same shelf label code as the shelf label code written in the shelf label usage information database 14a in step S106 in the total shelf label usage period database 14b.

  If there is an information group having the same shelf label code as the shelf label code written in step S106 in the shelf label total usage period database 14b, the server control unit 15 performs link processing. finish.

  On the other hand, when there is no information group having the same shelf label code as the shelf label code written in the shelf label usage information database 14a in step S106 in the total shelf label usage period database 14b, the server control unit 15 The shelf label code and the current date and time (date and time when the shelf label code is written in the shelf label total use period database 14b) are written in the shelf label total use period database 14b as one information group. Thereafter, the server control unit 15 ends the link process.

(4) Unlink process The unlink process in the electronic shelf label system 100 is demonstrated using the flowchart of FIG. The unlink process is a process for releasing the association between the electronic shelf label 40 and the product P on which each electronic shelf label 40 displays product information. The unlink process is an operation required when, for example, the sale of a certain product P is stopped.

  First, in step S201, the operator sets the operation mode of the handy terminal 50 to an unlink mode for transmitting an unlink request to the electronic shelf label server 10, and then releases the link to the handy terminal 50. The shelf label code of the electronic shelf label 40 to be acquired is acquired. Specifically, the operator causes the handy terminal 50 to read a barcode indicating the shelf label code of the electronic shelf label 40 attached to the electronic shelf label 40. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S202.

  In step S202, the shelf label code acquired in step S101 is transmitted from the handy terminal 50 to the electronic shelf label server 10 together with the unlink request. In step S202, the handy terminal 50 or the handy terminal 50 and the electronic shelf label server 10 are relayed in order to identify whether the shelf label code is transmitted from the handy terminal 50 installed in the store A or B. An area code unique to the store is transmitted from the device or the like to the electronic shelf label server 10. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S203.

  In step S <b> 203, the server control unit 15 generates an identification code using the shelf label code and the area code received by the server communication unit 11 via the transceiver 30. Since the generation of the identification code is the same as that in step S103, the description is omitted. After step S203 ends, the process proceeds to step S204.

  In step S204, the server control unit 15 refers to the shelf label usage information database 14a in the server storage unit 14 and deletes the information group including the same identification code as the identification code generated in step S203. As a result, the electronic shelf label 40 whose shelf label code has been read by the handy terminal 50 in step S201 and the product P linked to the electronic shelf label 40 are unlinked, and the unlink process ends.

(5) Features (5-1)
The electronic shelf label system 100 according to the present embodiment includes a first electronic shelf label group G1, a second electronic shelf label group G2, and an electronic shelf label server 10 as a management device. The first electronic shelf label group G1 is deployed in a store A as an example of a first area. The second electronic shelf label group G2 is deployed in a store B as an example of a second area different from the store A. The electronic shelf label server 10 manages the first electronic shelf label group G1 and the second electronic shelf label group G2. An electronic shelf label 40 (an example of a third electronic shelf label) that is deployed in the store A, belongs to the first electronic shelf label group G1, and is linked to a certain product P (an example of a first product) is When the electronic shelf label server 10 is linked to a certain product P (an example of a second product), the electronic shelf label server 10 in the store A has an electronic shelf label 40 (an example of a third electronic shelf label) and a product P (a first product). The electronic shelf label 40 (an example of a third electronic shelf label) is managed as belonging to the second electronic shelf label group G2.

  Here, the electronic shelf label 40 (an example of the third electronic shelf label) linked to the product P (an example of the first product) in the store A is linked to the product P (an example of the second product) in the store B. When attached, the store A forcibly releases (unlinks) the link. After unlinking, it is not necessary to perform a roaming search for the electronic shelf label 40 (an example of the third electronic shelf label) that does not exist in the store A, and the occurrence of useless communication in the store A can be suppressed.

(5-2)
In the electronic shelf label system 100 according to the present embodiment, an electronic shelf label 40 (fourth) that is deployed in the store A, belongs to the first electronic shelf label group G1, and is linked to the product P (an example of a third product). When an example of an electronic shelf label is linked to a product P (an example of a fourth product) in the store A, the electronic shelf label server 10 may use an electronic shelf label 40 (an example of a fourth electronic shelf label) by a user. ) And the product P (an example of the third product) are only released after the link between the electronic shelf label 40 (an example of the fourth electronic shelf label) and the product P (an example of the fourth product) is permitted. .

  Here, the electronic shelf label 40 (an example of the fourth electronic shelf label) linked to the product P (an example of the third product) is newly linked to the product P (an example of the fourth product) within the same area. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the product P linked to the electronic shelf label 40 (an example of the fourth electronic shelf label) is changed by an erroneous operation. Therefore, it is easy to prevent unintended information (unintended selling price, etc.) from being displayed on the electronic shelf label 40.

(5-3)
In the electronic shelf label system 100 according to the present embodiment, the electronic shelf label server 10 associates the identification code with the product code of the product P linked to each electronic shelf label 40 in the shelf label use information database 14a. Remember. The identification code is a set of an area code unique to each area where the first electronic shelf label group G1 and the second electronic shelf label group G2 are arranged, and a shelf label code unique to each electronic shelf label 40. Is.

  Here, when the electronic shelf label 40 and the product code of the product P are associated with each other and stored in the shelf label use information database 14a, an identification code in which the shelf label code and the area code are set is used. Even if the shelf label code is the same, if the area code is different, it is determined that the identification code is different. Therefore, it is easy to perform processing for storing the same electronic shelf label 40 in association with a plurality of product codes. It is. In other words, the electronic shelf label 40 (an example of the third electronic shelf label) linked to the product P (an example of the first product) in the store A is further changed to the product P (an example of the second product) in the store B. It is easy to link with. After that, the electronic shelf label 40 (an example of the third electronic shelf label) and the product P (an example of the first product) are forcibly released to link the electronic shelf label 40 (the first item) that does not exist in the store A. It is not necessary to perform a roaming search for searching for an example of 3 electronic shelf labels, and generation of useless communication at the store A can be suppressed.

  On the other hand, when both the shelf label code and the area code match, the identification code is the same, so that overlapping of links in the same area can be easily prevented. In other words, the electronic shelf label 40 (an example of the fourth electronic shelf label) linked to the product P (an example of the third product) in the store A is linked to the product P (an example of the fourth product) in the store A. It is easy to prohibit attaching.

(5-4)
In the electronic shelf label system 100 according to the present embodiment, the electronic shelf label server 10 associates a shelf label code unique to each electronic shelf label 40 with information relating to the total use period of each electronic shelf label 40, Store in the total bill usage period database 14b.

  Here, since the information regarding the total use period of the electronic shelf label 40 is stored in association with the shelf label code of the electronic shelf label 40, the electronic shelf label 40 is moved to another area (for example, from the store A to the store B). Even if it is moved, the total usage period can be correctly recognized. Therefore, it is easy to correctly recognize the deterioration state of the electronic shelf label 40 (the degree of consumption of the battery 45, etc.).

(6) Modifications Modifications of the present embodiment will be described below. Note that a plurality of modified examples may be combined as long as they do not contradict each other.

(6-1) Modification A
In the electronic shelf label system 100 according to the above-described embodiment, the electronic shelf label server 10 stores the product information of all the products P displayed in the stores A and B, and is arranged in the stores A and B. 40 (first and second electronic shelf label groups G1, G2) are managed.

  However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the electronic shelf label system may be configured as the electronic shelf label system 200 of FIG.

  In the electronic shelf label system 200, the central server 210, the local electronic shelf label server 220 installed in the store A and the store B, the plurality of transceivers 30 installed in the store A and the store B, the store A and the store, respectively. A plurality of electronic shelf labels 40 respectively provided in B, and a handy terminal 50 used in each store A and B are provided. The central server 210 and the local electronic shelf label server 220 are connected by a network 203 such as the Internet, and exchange various information between them. The local electronic shelf label server 220 installed in each store is connected to the transceiver 30 installed in the store via a network 202 such as a LAN (Local Area Network). Since the transceiver 30, the electronic shelf label 40, and the handy terminal 50 are the same as those in the above embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

  The central server 210 is an example of a management device. The central server 210 mainly executes the above-described link processing / unlink processing, and information stored in the shelf label usage information database 14a and the total shelf label usage period database 14b in the electronic shelf label system 100 of the above embodiment. Manage. Specifically, in the central server 210, each electronic shelf label 40 is used in any store A or B (belongs to either the first electronic shelf label group G1 or the second electronic shelf label group G2), and which product It is linked to P and manages from when the electronic shelf label 40 has been used in the store where it is currently used. Further, the central server 210 manages when the electronic shelf label 40 has been used.

  The local electronic shelf label server 220 manages the electronic shelf label 40 of the store where the local electronic shelf label server 220 is installed. That is, the local electronic shelf label server 220 installed in the store A is the electronic shelf label 40 of the first electronic shelf label group G1, and the local electronic shelf label server 220 installed in the store B is the second electronic shelf label group. The G2 electronic shelf label 40 is managed. The local electronic shelf label server 220 stores only information necessary for management of the electronic shelf label 40 that it has jurisdiction over. For example, the local electronic shelf label server 220 installed in the store A stores which product P is associated with only the electronic shelf label 40 deployed in the store A. That is, the local electronic shelf label server 220 installed in the store A includes a shelf label code of the electronic shelf label 40 deployed in the store A, a product code of the product P for which the electronic shelf label 40 displays product information, Is stored in the table 220a (see FIG. 11). The table 220a is managed so as not to be inconsistent with the information stored in the central server 210.

  The local electronic shelf label server 220 takes charge of the functions other than the functions (mainly link processing / unlink processing) executed by the central server 210 among the functions of the electronic shelf label server 10 of the above embodiment. For example, the local electronic shelf label server 220 transmits image data of product information of the product P linked to the electronic shelf label 40 to a certain electronic shelf label 40 via the transceiver 30.

  About the other point, since the electronic shelf label system 200 which concerns on the modification A, and the electronic shelf label system 100 which concerns on the said embodiment are the same, description is abbreviate | omitted.

(6-2) Modification B
In the electronic shelf label system 100 according to the above-described embodiment, the electronic shelf label server 10 manages the two electronic shelf label groups G1 and G2, but is not limited thereto. The electronic shelf label server 10 may manage three or more electronic shelf label groups deployed in different areas.

(6-3) Modification C
In the electronic shelf label system 100 according to the above-described embodiment, the electronic shelf label groups G1 and G2 deployed in different stores A and B have been described as examples of the electronic shelf label group deployed in different areas. Is not to be done. For example, the electronic shelf label group of the electronic shelf label system may be an electronic shelf label group arranged on different floors in the same store.

(6-4) Modification D
In the electronic shelf label system 100 according to the above-described embodiment, the use start date and time of the electronic shelf label 40 is stored in the shelf label total use period database 14b as information related to the total use period of the electronic shelf label 40, but is not limited thereto. It is not something. For example, the elapsed time from the start of use of the electronic shelf label 40 may be stored in the shelf label total use period database 14b as information on the total use period of the electronic shelf label 40. Further, for example, in the shelf label total use period database 14b, as information related to the total use period of the electronic shelf label 40, the time actually used in the store A or the store B (in the store A or the store B, the product P and The total of the linked time) may be stored.

  In the electronic shelf label system according to the present invention, when an electronic shelf label used in a certain area is used in another area, the electronic shelf label is originally installed in the area where the electronic shelf label is installed. This is useful as an electronic shelf label system that can suppress the occurrence of useless communication associated with the movement of a tag to another area.

10 Electronic shelf label server (management device)
14a Shelf label usage information database 14b Total shelf life database 40 Electronic shelf labels (third electronic shelf label, fourth electronic shelf label)
100, 200 Electronic shelf label system 210 Central server (management device)
A store (first area)
B store (2nd area)
G1 First electronic shelf label group G2 Second electronic shelf label group

JP 2008-282426 A

Claims (3)

A first electronic shelf label group deployed in the first area;
A second electronic shelf label group deployed in a second area different from the first area;
A management device for managing the first electronic shelf label group and the second electronic shelf label group;
With
When the third electronic shelf label that is deployed in the first area, belongs to the first electronic shelf label group, and is linked to the first product, is linked to the second product in the second area, the management device is forcibly released linking with the third electronic shelf labels and the first item in the first area, and managing the third electronic shelf label as belonging to the second electronic shelf label group,
The management device includes an identification code in which an area code unique to each area where the first electronic shelf label group and the second electronic shelf label group are arranged, and a shelf label code of each electronic shelf label. And the product code of the product linked to each electronic shelf label in association with each other and stored in the database.
Electronic shelf label system. When the fourth electronic shelf label that is deployed in the first area, belongs to the first electronic shelf label group, and is linked to the third product, is linked to the fourth product in the first area,
The management device permits the link between the fourth electronic shelf label and the fourth product only after the user releases the link between the fourth electronic shelf label and the third product.
The electronic shelf label system according to claim 1. The management device stores a shelf label code unique to each electronic shelf label and information related to the total use period of each electronic shelf label in a database in association with each other.
The electronic shelf label system according to claim 1 or 2.

that's all

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