JP7091604B2 - Cart management device, cart management method and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a cart management device, a cart management method and a program.

There are many shopping facilities (stores, shopping malls, etc.) that have carts for shopping. A customer who wishes to use a cart goes to the cart storage area and obtains the cart stored there. Then, after use, the customer returns the used cart to a predetermined return area. Techniques related to the present invention are disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2.

Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for grasping a customer lead wire from the time when the use of the car is started or the time when the customer visits the store by using a car with a wireless tag or a cart with a wireless tag.

Patent Document 2 discloses a technique for managing a shopping basket rented out for use outside a store. The technology manages the lending and returning of shopping carts using each customer's shopping card. In addition, the customer can earn points for the shopping card by returning the shopping cart. It should be noted that Patent Document 2 discloses only such a concept, and the means for realizing it is unknown.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2005-216010 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 11-53645

There are customers who do not return the used cart to the designated return area and leave it in any place. For this reason, the shopping facility needs to be provided with means for collecting the cart, such as preparing a staff for collecting the cart. An object of the present invention is to solve a problem that a cart is left unattended without being returned to a predetermined return area.

According to the present invention, the following first to third cart management devices are provided.
The first cart management device is
A customer identification information acquisition means for acquiring customer identification information by an input means provided in the cart, and a customer identification information acquisition means.
When the customer identification information is acquired, the cart identification information for identifying the cart stored in the storage device provided in the cart for which the customer identification information is acquired is associated with the customer identification information. With the means of attachment,
A detection means for detecting an event in which the cart returns to the return area based on the position of the cart.
When the detection means detects the event, the granting means for adding points associated with the customer identification information associated with the cart identification information of the returned cart, and
Have,
When the event is detected, the granting means determines whether or not the condition for adding the points is satisfied, and when it is determined that the condition is satisfied, the addition of the points associated with the customer identification information is performed. ,
The granting means determines that the condition is satisfied when the usage time of the cart specified by using the date and time when the customer identification information is acquired is equal to or longer than the reference value.
The second cart management device is
A customer identification information acquisition means for acquiring customer identification information by an input means provided in the cart, and a customer identification information acquisition means.
When the customer identification information is acquired, the cart identification information for identifying the cart stored in the storage device provided in the cart for which the customer identification information is acquired is associated with the customer identification information. With the means of attachment,
A detection means for detecting an event in which the cart returns to the return area based on the position of the cart.
When the detection means detects the event, the granting means for adding points associated with the customer identification information associated with the cart identification information of the returned cart, and
Have,
When the event is detected, the granting means determines whether or not the condition for adding the points is satisfied, and when it is determined that the condition is satisfied, the addition of the points associated with the customer identification information is performed. ,
The granting means determines that the condition is satisfied when an item is put in the cart by the time it returns to the return area.
The third cart management device is
A detection means that detects an event in which the cart returns to the return area based on the location of the cart after leaving the cart storage area.
When the event is detected, the customer identification information acquisition means for acquiring the customer identification information by the input means provided in the cart, and the customer identification information acquisition means.
A granting means for adding points associated with the acquired customer identification information, and
Have,
When the usage time of the cart specified by using the date and time when the customer identification information is acquired is equal to or longer than the reference value, the granting means determines that the condition for adding the points is satisfied, and the condition is satisfied. When it is determined, the points associated with the customer identification information are added .

Further, according to the present invention, the following first to third cart management methods are provided.
The first cart management method is
The computer
The customer identification information acquisition process that acquires customer identification information by the input means provided in the cart, and
When the customer identification information is acquired, the cart identification information for identifying the cart stored in the storage device provided in the cart for which the customer identification information is acquired is associated with the customer identification information. Attached process and
A detection process that detects an event in which the cart returns to the return area based on the position of the cart.
When the event is detected in the detection step, a granting step of adding points associated with the customer identification information associated with the cart identification information of the returned cart, and a granting step.
And run
In the application step,
When the event is detected, it is determined whether or not the condition for adding the points is satisfied, and when it is determined that the condition is satisfied, the points associated with the customer identification information are added.
When the usage time of the cart specified by using the date and time when the customer identification information is acquired is equal to or longer than the reference value, it is determined that the condition is satisfied.
The second cart management method is
The computer
The customer identification information acquisition process that acquires customer identification information by the input means provided in the cart, and
When the customer identification information is acquired, the cart identification information for identifying the cart stored in the storage device provided in the cart for which the customer identification information is acquired is associated with the customer identification information. Attached process and
A detection process that detects an event in which the cart returns to the return area based on the position of the cart.
When the event is detected in the detection step, a granting step of adding points associated with the customer identification information associated with the cart identification information of the returned cart, and a granting step.
And run
In the application step,
When the event is detected, it is determined whether or not the condition for adding the points is satisfied, and when it is determined that the condition is satisfied, the points associated with the customer identification information are added.
If an item is placed in the cart by the time it returns to the return area, it is determined that the condition is satisfied.
The third cart management method is
The computer
A detection process that detects an event in which the cart returns to the return area based on the location of the cart after leaving the cart storage area.
A customer identification information acquisition step of acquiring customer identification information by an input means provided in the cart when the event is detected, and a customer identification information acquisition process.
A granting process for adding points associated with the acquired customer identification information, and
And run
In the granting step, when the usage time of the cart specified by using the date and time when the customer identification information is acquired is equal to or longer than the reference value, it is determined that the condition for adding the points is satisfied, and the condition is satisfied. When it is determined, the points associated with the customer identification information are added .

Further, according to the present invention, the following first to third programs are provided.
The first program is
Computer,
A customer identification information acquisition means for acquiring customer identification information by an input means provided in the cart, and a customer identification information acquisition means.
When the customer identification information is acquired, the cart identification information for identifying the cart stored in the storage device provided in the cart for which the customer identification information is acquired is associated with the customer identification information. With the means of attachment,
A detection means for detecting an event in which the cart returns to the return area based on the position of the cart.
When the detection means detects the event, the granting means for adding points associated with the customer identification information associated with the cart identification information of the returned cart, and
To function as
When the event is detected, the granting means determines whether or not the condition for adding the points is satisfied, and when it is determined that the condition is satisfied, the addition of the points associated with the customer identification information is performed. ,
The granting means determines that the condition is satisfied when the usage time of the cart specified by using the date and time when the customer identification information is acquired is equal to or longer than the reference value.
The second program is
Computer,
A customer identification information acquisition means for acquiring customer identification information by an input means provided in the cart, and a customer identification information acquisition means.
When the customer identification information is acquired, the cart identification information for identifying the cart stored in the storage device provided in the cart for which the customer identification information is acquired is associated with the customer identification information. With the means of attachment,
A detection means for detecting an event in which the cart returns to the return area based on the position of the cart.
When the detection means detects the event, the granting means for adding points associated with the customer identification information associated with the cart identification information of the returned cart, and
To function as
When the event is detected, the granting means determines whether or not the condition for adding the points is satisfied, and when it is determined that the condition is satisfied, the addition of the points associated with the customer identification information is performed. ,
The granting means determines that the condition is satisfied when an item is put in the cart by the time it returns to the return area.
The third program is
Computer,
A detection means that detects an event in which the cart returns to the return area based on the location of the cart after leaving the cart storage area.
When the event is detected, the customer identification information acquisition means for acquiring the customer identification information by the input means provided in the cart, and the customer identification information acquisition means.
A granting means for adding points associated with the acquired customer identification information, and
To function as
When the usage time of the cart specified by using the date and time when the customer identification information is acquired is equal to or longer than the reference value, the granting means determines that the condition for adding the points is satisfied, and the condition is satisfied. When it is determined, the points associated with the customer identification information are added .

According to the present invention, it is possible to alleviate the problem that the cart is left unattended without being returned to the predetermined return area.

It is a figure which conceptually shows an example of the hardware composition of the cart management apparatus of this embodiment. This is an example of a functional block diagram of the cart management device of the present embodiment. This is an example of a functional block diagram of a system having a cart management device and a privilege management device of the present embodiment. This is an example of a functional block diagram of the cart management device of the present embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the processing flow of the cart management apparatus of this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the processing flow of the cart management apparatus of this embodiment. This is an example of a functional block diagram of the cart management device of the present embodiment. This is an example of a functional block diagram of the cart management device of the present embodiment.

<First Embodiment>
First, the outline of the cart management device of this embodiment will be described. The cart management device of the present embodiment identifies a means for acquiring customer identification information for identifying a customer who is using the cart, the customer identification information, and a cart used or used by the customer specified by the customer identification information. It has a means for associating the cart identification information with the cart identification information and a means for detecting that the cart has returned to the return area. Then, when the cart is returned to the return area, the cart management device of the present embodiment performs a process for giving a privilege to the customer who used the cart. According to the cart management device of the present embodiment as described above, it is expected that the number of customers who return the cart to the return area will increase. As a result, it is possible to reduce the problem of leaving the cart in the designated return area without returning it.

Next, the configuration of the cart management device will be described in detail. The cart management device may be a terminal device attached to each of a plurality of carts. In addition, the cart management device may be a center device that collects information about each of the plurality of carts and manages the plurality of carts.

Here, an example of the hardware configuration of the cart management device will be described. Each functional unit included in the cart management device of the present embodiment is a storage unit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) of an arbitrary computer, a memory, a program loaded in the memory, and a hard disk for storing the program (the device is shipped in advance). In addition to programs stored from the stage, programs downloaded from storage media such as CDs (Compact Discs) and servers on the Internet can also be stored), and any hardware or software centered on the network connection interface. It is realized by the combination of. And, it is understood by those skilled in the art that there are various variations in the method of realizing the device and the device.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the cart management device of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the cart management device includes a processor 1A, a memory 2A, an input / output interface 3A, a peripheral circuit 4A, and a bus 5A. The peripheral circuit 4A includes various modules.

The bus 5A is a data transmission path for the processor 1A, the memory 2A, the peripheral circuit 4A, and the input / output interface 3A to transmit and receive data to each other. The processor 1A is, for example, an arithmetic processing unit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The memory 2A is, for example, a memory such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a ROM (Read Only Memory). The input / output interface 3A is an interface for acquiring information from an input device (eg, keyboard, mouse, microphone, physical key, touch panel display, code reader, etc.), an external device, an external server, an external sensor, etc., and an output device (eg, an output device (eg). Example: Display, speaker, printer, mailer, etc.), including an interface for outputting information to an external device, external server, etc. The processor 1A can issue a command to each module and perform a calculation based on the calculation result thereof.

Next, the functional configuration of the cart management device will be described. FIG. 2 shows an example of a functional block diagram of the cart management device 10. As shown in the figure, the cart management device 10 includes a customer identification information acquisition unit 11, a detection unit 12, a first grant unit 13 (one embodiment of the grant unit), and a corresponding attachment unit 15.

The customer identification information acquisition unit 11 acquires customer identification information for identifying a customer. For example, each of the plurality of carts is provided with a customer identification information input device for inputting customer identification information. The customer identification information acquisition unit 11 acquires the customer identification information acquired by the customer identification information input device.

The customer identification information is information used for identifying each customer in the privilege management by the privilege management device 20 described below. The customer identification information may be, for example, a customer's name or an ID (identifier) other than the name given to each customer. The ID other than the name may be, for example, a serial number or a character string composed of a plurality of numbers, alphabets, and the like.

The customer identification information input device may be a reader that communicates with or without contact with an electronic card, an electronic tag, a smartphone, a mobile phone, or other mobile terminal, and acquires customer identification information recorded in these. The customer may communicate the reader installed in the cart used by the customer with the device that records the customer identification information. As a result, the customer identification information of each customer may be acquired by the cart management device 10 via the customer identification information input device.

In addition, the customer identification information input device may be a device for directly inputting the customer identification information. For example, the customer identification information input device may be a touch panel display, a physical key, a microphone, or the like. The customer may directly input his / her customer identification information through these customer identification information input devices provided in the cart used by the customer. As a result, the customer identification information of each customer may be acquired by the cart management device 10 via the customer identification information input device.

In addition, the customer identification information input device may be a device for acquiring customer's biological information (eg, face image, fingerprint, voice print, iris, etc.), for example, a camera, a fingerprint sensor, a microphone, or the like. The customer identification information input device transmits the acquired biometric information to the customer information management server that stores the biometric information in association with the customer identification information, and the customer identification information corresponding to the transmitted biometric information is transmitted from the customer information management server. Can be obtained. The customer may input his / her biometric information through these customer identification information input devices provided in the cart used by the customer. As a result, the customer identification information of each customer may be acquired by the cart management device 10 via the customer identification information input device.

The timing at which the customer identification information acquisition unit 11 acquires the customer identification information is exemplified by the timing at which each customer starts using the cart, the timing at which the use of the cart ends, and the like. Each cart may be provided with any output means (eg, display, speaker, etc.). Then, the input of the customer identification information at each timing may be guided to the customer via the output means.

The correspondence unit 15 associates the customer identification information acquired by the customer identification information acquisition unit 11 with the cart identification information that identifies the cart used or used by the customer specified by the customer identification information.

For example, when the cart management device 10 is attached to each cart, the cart identification information that identifies each cart may be recorded in the storage device of each cart management device 10. Then, the corresponding unit 15 may associate the cart identification information with the customer identification information by recording the customer identification information acquired by the customer identification information acquisition unit 11 in the storage device.

In addition, when the center device that manages a plurality of carts is the cart management device 10, the cart identification information that identifies each cart may be recorded in the terminal device installed in each cart. Then, the terminal device of each cart may associate the customer identification information acquired by the customer identification information input device with the cart identification information and transmit it to the cart management device 10. The correspondence unit 15 may record the pair of the received customer identification information and the cart identification information in association with each other.

The detection unit 12 detects an event in which the cart returns to the return area (hereinafter, may be referred to as a “return event”). The return area is an arbitrary predetermined area. The return area is provided, for example, in a store building or in a corner of a parking lot.

The detection unit 12 can identify the position of the cart by adopting any technique. For example, a technique using a wireless tag (for example, a technique disclosed in Patent Document 1), a technique using a GPS (global positioning system), and the like are exemplified, but the technique is not limited thereto. Then, the detection unit 12 can detect an event in which the cart returns to the return area by comparing the position of the cart with the preset return area.

The first granting unit 13 performs a process for granting a privilege to a customer specified by the customer identification information associated with the cart identification information of the returned cart when the detection unit 12 detects a return event. conduct. As shown in FIG. 3, the cart management device 10 and the privilege management device 20 are configured to be able to communicate by wire and / or wirelessly. The privilege management device 20 stores information about the privilege in association with each of the plurality of customer identification information. The first granting unit 13 transmits to the privilege management device 20 a request for granting a privilege to the customer specified by the customer identification information together with the customer identification information associated with the cart identification information of the returned cart. do. The privilege management device 20 executes a predetermined process in response to the request.

The content of the benefits is not particularly limited. The privilege may be given each time the cart is returned to the return area, or may be given when the cart is returned to the return area a predetermined number of times (twice or more). Benefits include, but are not limited to, point addition, gift provision, discount coupon provision, and the like. The privilege management device 20 may store points in association with the customer identification information, may store the number of times the cart is returned to the return area in association with the customer identification information, or may store the customer identification information. Other information may be stored in association with. Then, these pieces of information may be updated in response to a request from the first granting unit 13. When the privilege is the provision of a gift, the provision of a discount ticket, or the like, for example, when each customer performs accounting processing, the discount ticket, the gift voucher, or the like may be provided via the POS (point of sale) register.

According to the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment described above, it is possible to detect that the cart has been returned to the return area and identify the customer who has returned the cart to the return area. Then, a predetermined privilege can be given to the customer who returned the cart to the return area.

According to the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment as described above, it is expected that the number of customers who return the cart to the return area will increase. As a result, it is possible to reduce the problem of leaving the cart in the designated return area without returning it.

<Second embodiment>
When the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment detects an event in which the cart returns to the return area, it determines whether or not the condition for granting the privilege is satisfied accordingly. Then, when it is determined that the condition is satisfied, a process for granting a privilege to the customer specified by the customer identification information is performed. On the other hand, if it is determined that the conditions are not satisfied, the process for granting the benefit to the customer is not performed. According to the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment as described above, the processing for granting the privilege is not always performed when the cart detects an event of returning to the return area, but the privilege is granted only when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Can be processed. By appropriately setting predetermined conditions, it is possible to reduce the provision of erroneous benefits and the illegal acquisition of benefits.

An example of the hardware configuration of the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment.

Next, the functional configuration of the cart management device 10 will be described. FIG. 7 shows an example of a functional block diagram of the cart management device 10. As shown in the figure, the cart management device 10 includes a customer identification information acquisition unit 11, a detection unit 12, a second grant unit 16 (one embodiment of the grant unit), and a corresponding attachment unit 15. The configuration of the customer identification information acquisition unit 11, the detection unit 12, and the corresponding unit 15 is the same as that of the first embodiment. The second granting unit 16 may have the function of the first granting unit 13.

When the detection unit 12 detects the return event, the second granting unit 16 determines whether or not the return event satisfies the condition for granting the privilege (hereinafter, may be referred to as “privilege granting condition”). Then, when it is determined that the privilege granting condition is satisfied, the second granting unit 16 is a process for granting the privilege to the customer specified by the customer identification information associated with the cart identification information of the returned cart. (The same process as the transmission of the request to the privilege management device 20 by the first granting unit 13 described in the first embodiment) is performed. If it is determined that the privilege granting condition is not satisfied, the second granting unit 16 performs a process for granting the privilege to the customer specified by the customer identification information associated with the cart identification information of the returned cart. do not have.

For example, the second granting unit 16 may determine whether the privilege granting condition is satisfied based on the usage time of the cart. In such a case, the second granting unit 16 determines that the privilege granting condition is satisfied when the usage time of the cart is equal to or longer than the reference value. Then, the second granting unit 16 determines that the privilege granting condition is not satisfied when the usage time of the cart is less than the reference value.

The second granting unit 16 can acquire the elapsed time from the start timing of use of the cart to the end timing of use, and can determine whether or not the privilege granting condition is satisfied by comparing the elapsed time with the reference value. ..

Here, the use start timing and use end timing of the cart will be illustrated. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to this example.

When the customer identification information is configured to be acquired at the timing when the use of the cart is started, for example, the timing when the cart leaves the storage area or the timing when the customer identification information acquisition unit 11 acquires the customer identification information is set in the cart. It may be the start timing of use. Then, the timing when the cart returns to the return area may be the timing when the use of the cart ends.

On the other hand, when the customer identification information is configured to be acquired at the timing when the use of the cart is finished, for example, the timing when the cart leaves the storage area may be set as the timing to start using the cart. Then, the timing when the cart returns to the return area or the timing when the customer identification information acquisition unit 11 acquires the customer identification information may be the timing when the use of the cart ends.

The storage area is an area for storing a predetermined cart. A customer who wishes to use a cart goes to the cart storage area and obtains the cart stored there. The cart management device 10 can detect an event in which the cart leaves the storage area by comparing the position of the cart with the preset storage area. The storage area and the return area may be the same area, may be different areas, or may be partially common.

In addition, the second granting unit 16 may determine whether or not the privilege granting condition is satisfied based on the movement trajectory until the cart returns to the return area. For example, the second granting unit 16 may determine whether the privilege granting condition is satisfied based on the movement trajectory from the start timing of using the cart to the return of the cart to the return area. The means for acquiring the movement trajectory of the cart (movement trajectory in the store) is not particularly limited, and any technique can be adopted.

In such a case, the second granting unit 16 determines that the privilege granting condition is satisfied when the cart passes through the predetermined area in the movement locus. Then, the second granting unit 16 determines that the privilege granting condition is not satisfied if the cart does not pass through the predetermined area in the movement locus.

The predetermined area may include at least one of the accounting area and the gate area provided at the entrance of the store. The accounting area is an area where a POS register is set up and accounting processing is performed.

In addition, the second granting unit 16 may determine that the privilege granting condition is satisfied if an item is placed in the cart between the start timing of using the cart and the return of the cart to the return area. .. Then, the second granting unit 16 determines that the privilege granting condition is not satisfied if no item is placed in the cart between the start timing of using the cart and the return of the cart to the return area. May be good. The means for detecting that an item has been placed in the cart is not particularly limited. For example, it may be realized by using a weight sensor that measures the weight of an object placed in a cart.

The second granting unit 16 may determine whether or not the privilege granting condition is satisfied based on the plurality of processes exemplified above. For example, at least two of "the usage time of the cart is equal to or more than the standard value ", "the cart has passed the predetermined area", and "the item has been put in the cart" are connected by the AND condition and / or the OR condition. However, if the condition is satisfied, the second granting unit 16 may determine that the privilege granting condition is satisfied. Then, if the condition is not satisfied, the second granting unit 16 may determine that the privilege granting condition is not satisfied.

According to the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment described above, the same operation and effect as those of the first embodiment can be realized.

Further, according to the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment, when the cart is returned to the return area and the predetermined privilege granting condition is satisfied, the process for granting the privilege can be executed. Even if the cart is returned to the return area, if the specified privilege grant conditions are not met, the process for granting the privilege is not executed. According to the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment as described above, it is possible to reduce erroneous granting of benefits, unauthorized acquisition of benefits, and the like.

Further, according to the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment, "the usage time of the cart is equal to or greater than the reference value ", "the cart has passed the predetermined area", and / or "the item has been put in the cart" and the like. Determine whether or not to grant benefits based on the conditions. According to the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment, which is determined based on such a condition, it is possible to accurately discriminate between legitimate use of the cart and other than that, and to correctly grant the privilege.

<Third embodiment>
The system of this embodiment is premised on the existence of a plurality of cart return areas. Examples of the plurality of return areas include a return area in a building, a return area in a parking lot, and the like. In the system of this embodiment, a privilege is given according to the return area where the cart is returned. For example, when returned to a return area in a parking lot, workers need to move the cart to a storage area in the building. On the other hand, when returned to the return area in the building, such work does not occur. In addition, when the cart is returned to the outdoor return area, it is exposed to rain, wind, sunlight, etc., and the cart deteriorates. On the other hand, when returned to the indoor return area, such inconvenience can be alleviated.

Therefore, for example, when the product is returned to a return area that is more desirable for the store, a higher privilege may be given as compared with the case where the product is returned to a return area that is not. According to the system of the present embodiment as described above, it is possible to increase the return of the cart to the return area, which is more desirable for the store side, by appropriately setting the privilege to be granted.

An example of the hardware configuration of the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment is the same as that of the first and second embodiments.

Next, the functional configuration of the cart management device 10 will be described. FIG. 8 shows an example of a functional block diagram of the cart management device 10. As shown in the figure, the cart management device 10 includes a customer identification information acquisition unit 11, a detection unit 12, a third grant unit 17 (one embodiment of the grant unit), and a corresponding attachment unit 15. The configuration of the customer identification information acquisition unit 11 and the corresponding unit 15 is the same as that of the first and second embodiments. The third granting unit 17 may have the functions of the first granting unit 13 and / or the second granting unit 16.

The detection unit 12 identifies the return area where the cart has returned. As described above, in this embodiment, there are a plurality of return areas.

The detection unit 12 can detect an event in which the cart returns to the return area and specify the return area in which the cart has returned by comparing the position of the cart with each of the plurality of preset return areas. can.

The third granting unit 17 performs a process for granting a privilege according to the return area where the cart has returned. Specifically, the third granting unit 17 is identified by the customer identification information associated with the cart identification information of the returned cart and the detection unit 12 when the detection unit 12 detects the return event. Information for identifying the return area is transmitted to the privilege management device 20, and a request for granting the privilege to the customer specified by the customer identification information is requested.

Then, the privilege management device 20 executes a predetermined process based on the acquired information. For example, if the privilege is to add a predetermined point each time the cart is returned to the return area, the points to be added may differ depending on the return area. If you are returned to a return area that is more desirable for the store, you may add higher points than if you were returned to a return area that is not. In addition, when the privilege is a gift offer, a gift may be offered at a higher price when the gift is returned to a return area that is more desirable for the store side, as compared with the case where the gift is returned to a return area that is not. Also, if the benefit is to offer a discount voucher, even if you offer a discount voucher with a higher discount rate than if you are returned to a return area that is more desirable for the store, or if you are returned to a return area that is not. good.

According to the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment described above, the same operation and effect as those of the first and second embodiments can be realized.

Further, according to the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment, different benefits can be given according to the return area where the cart is returned. By appropriately setting the benefits to be granted, it is possible to increase the return of the cart to the return area, which is more desirable for the store side.

<Fourth Embodiment>
In the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment, the customer identification information acquisition unit 11 acquires customer identification information at the timing when the cart is started to be used. Hereinafter, it will be described in detail.

An example of the hardware configuration of the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment is the same as that of the first to third embodiments.

Next, the functional configuration of the cart management device 10 will be described. FIG. 4 shows an example of a functional block diagram of the cart management device 10. As shown in the figure, the cart management device 10 includes a customer identification information acquisition unit 11, a detection unit 12, a first grant unit 13, a division unit 14, and a corresponding unit 15. Instead of the first granting unit 13, the second granting unit 16 or the third granting unit 17 may be provided. The configuration of the customer identification information acquisition unit 11, the detection unit 12, the first grant unit 13, the corresponding attachment unit 15, the second grant unit 16 and the third grant unit 17 is the same as in the first to third embodiments. Is.

The dividing unit 14 performs a dividing process for erasing the current customer identification information recorded in the storage device of the cart management device 10 or in the storage device of the external device communicably connected to the cart management device 10.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment. Hereinafter, an example of the processing flow of the cart management device 10 and the functional configuration of each functional unit will be described with reference to the flowchart. It is assumed that the cart management device 10 has a second granting unit 16 in the first granting unit 13, the second granting unit 16, and the third granting unit 17.

First, the customer identification information input device attached to the cart stored in the storage area is in a state of waiting for input of customer identification information. Then, when the customer identification information input device acquires the customer identification information, the customer identification information acquisition unit 11 of the cart management device 10 acquires the customer identification information from the customer identification information input device (Yes in S101). The functional configurations of the customer identification information input device and the customer identification information acquisition unit 11 are the same as those of the first to third embodiments.

When the customer identification information is acquired by the customer identification information acquisition unit 11, the customer identification information acquired in association with each cart and the acquisition date and time are recorded (S102). For example, when the cart management device 10 is attached to each cart, the customer identification information acquired in S101 and the acquisition date and time may be recorded in the storage device of each cart management device 10. On the other hand, when the cart management device 10 is a center device that collects information about each of the plurality of carts and manages the plurality of carts, the cart management device 10 is connected to the storage device of the cart management device 10 or communicably with the cart management device 10. The customer identification information acquired in S101 and the acquisition date and time may be recorded in the storage device of the external device in association with the information for identifying each cart. Here, the customer identification information recorded in association with each cart becomes the current customer identification information indicating the customer who is using the cart.

In S103, the cart management device 10 determines whether or not the cart is in the storage area, that is, whether or not it is away from the storage area. When the cart is not separated from the storage area, that is, the cart remains in the storage area (Yes in S103), the cart management device 10 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed from the customer identification information acquisition timing (S110).

When the predetermined time has elapsed (Yes in S110), the cart management device 10 returns to S101 and waits for the acquisition of new customer identification information. In this case, the dividing unit 14 of the cart management device 10 may erase the current customer identification information recorded in S102 in association with the cart. If the customer identification information has been entered but the cart remains in the storage area for more than a predetermined time, it is likely that the customer has stopped using the cart after entering the customer identification information. Therefore, the above-mentioned processing is performed.

On the other hand, when the predetermined time has not elapsed (No in S110), the cart management device 10 determines in S111 whether the new customer identification information has been acquired by the customer identification information acquisition unit 11. When new customer identification information is acquired (Yes in S111), the cart management device 10 uses the information recorded in S102 (customer identification information and acquisition date and time) as newly acquired information (customer identification information and acquisition). Date and time) (S112). After S112, the cart management device 10 returns to S103 and performs the same processing. If the customer identification information has been entered, but the cart remains in the storage area and new customer identification information has been entered, the customer who entered the customer identification information first will be asked to enter the customer identification information after entering the customer identification information. , It is highly possible that you have stopped using the cart. Therefore, the above-mentioned processing is performed.

On the other hand, when new customer identification information has not been acquired (No in S111), the cart management device 10 returns to S103 and performs the same processing.

When the cart is not in the storage area, that is, the cart is away from the storage area (No in S103), the detection unit 12 starts detecting a return event in which the cart returns to the return area (S104). The functional configuration of the detection unit 12 is the same as that of the first to third embodiments.

When the return event is detected (Yes in S104), the second granting unit 16 determines whether the privilege granting condition is satisfied (S105). The processing of the second granting unit 16 here is as described in the second embodiment. For example, the second granting unit 16 is based on the usage time of the cart specified by using the date and time information recorded in S102 and S112, the movement trajectory of the cart, whether or not an item has been put in the cart, and the like. Determine if the privilege grant conditions are met.

When the privilege granting condition is satisfied (Yes in S106), the second granting unit 16 performs a process for granting the privilege to the customer specified by the current customer identification information recorded at that time (S107). Specifically, the second granting unit 16 transmits the current customer identification information recorded at that time to the privilege management device 20, and grants the privilege to the customer specified by the current customer identification information (the process). Example: Addition of points, etc.) is requested. After completing the process of granting the privilege, the division unit 14 of the cart management device 10 may delete the current customer identification information recorded at that time.

On the other hand, if the privilege granting condition is not satisfied (No in S106), the process for granting the privilege is not performed, and the process proceeds to S108. In this case, the division unit 14 of the cart management device 10 may erase the current customer identification information recorded at that time.

In S108, it is determined whether to end the process. If it does not end (No in S108), the process returns to S101 and the same process is repeated.

After detecting that the cart is away from the storage area (No in S103), while the return event is not detected (No in S104), the cart management device 10 can determine whether or not the division operation has been performed (S109). ).

The dividing operation is a predetermined operation on the cart performed by a worker who collects the cart. The worker returns the cart, which has not been returned to the return area and has been left unattended, to the designated return area. If the customer identification information is currently recorded in the cart, the processing after Yes of S104 is performed in response to the return by the worker, and there may be an inconvenience that the customer is given a privilege. In order to avoid the inconvenience, the worker performs a dividing operation before returning the abandoned cart to the return area. By the division operation, the current customer identification information recorded in association with the cart at that time is deleted. As a result, it is possible to avoid the inconvenience that the benefit is given to the customer who used the abandoned cart in response to the return to the return area by the worker.

The dividing operation may be performed, for example, via an input device provided in each cart. The input device may be the same as the customer identification information input device described above. That is, the customer identification information input device may accept the input of the customer identification information and also accept the division operation by the worker.

The division operation may be the input of the worker's identification information (example: worker ID), the input of the worker's biometric information, or the input of a predetermined password. In addition, the division operation may be the pressing of a predetermined physical key.

When there is a division operation (Yes in S109), the division unit 14 of the cart management device 10 performs a division process for erasing the current customer identification information recorded at that time (S113). The processing is performed before the processing (S107) for granting the privilege by the second granting unit 16 is performed. After that, the process proceeds to S108, and the same processing is performed.

Here, a modified example will be described.

The cart management device 10 may have a third granting unit 17 instead of the second granting unit 16. Then, in S104, the detection unit 12 may specify the return area where the cart has returned. Then, in S107, the third granting unit 17 transmits the current customer identification information recorded at that time and the information for identifying the return area specified in S104 to the privilege management device 20 and sends it to the return area. You may request a process to grant the corresponding benefits (eg, addition of points, etc.). The process is as described in the third embodiment.

Further, instead of recording the date and time when the customer identification information is acquired in S102 and S112, the date and time when it is detected that the cart is away from the storage area may be recorded.

Further, in the present embodiment, the movement locus of each customer in the store (movement locus of the cart used by each customer) may be accumulated in association with the customer identification information acquired in S101 or S111. As a result, it is possible to grasp the taste of the customer and the behavioral tendency in the store. As a result, it is possible to provide a service suitable for the customer (such as information on products preferred by the customer).

According to the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment described above, the same operation and effect as those of the first to third embodiments can be realized.

Further, according to the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment, the customer identification information is input to the cart by the processing by the dividing unit 14, but the customer who did not use the cart or the customer who did not return the cart to the return area. The inconvenience of giving benefits can be suppressed.

<Fifth Embodiment>
In the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment, the customer identification information acquisition unit 11 acquires customer identification information at the timing when the use of the cart is finished. Hereinafter, it will be described in detail.

An example of the hardware configuration of the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment is the same as that of the first to fourth embodiments.

Next, the functional configuration of the cart management device 10 will be described. An example of the functional block diagram of the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment is shown in FIG. 2, FIG. 7 or FIG.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment. Hereinafter, an example of the processing flow of the cart management device 10 and the functional configuration of each functional unit will be described with reference to the flowchart. It is assumed that the cart management device 10 has a second granting unit 16 in the first granting unit 13, the second granting unit 16, and the third granting unit 17.

First, the cart management device 10 is in a state of waiting for detection that the cart is away from the storage area (S201). When it is detected that the cart is away from the storage area (Yes in S201), the detection date and time is recorded in association with each cart (S202). For example, when the cart management device 10 is attached to each cart, the detection date and time may be recorded in the storage device of each cart management device 10. On the other hand, when the cart management device 10 is a center device that collects information about each of the plurality of carts and manages the plurality of carts, the cart management device 10 is connected to the storage device of the cart management device 10 or communicably with the cart management device 10. The detection date and time may be recorded in association with each cart in the storage device of the external device.

Then, the detection unit 12 starts detecting a return event in which the cart returns to the return area (S203). The functional configuration of the detection unit 12 is the same as that of the first to fourth embodiments.

When the return event is detected (Yes in S203), the customer identification information input device attached to the cart is in a state of waiting for input of customer identification information. Then, when the customer identification information input device acquires the customer identification information, the customer identification information acquisition unit 11 of the cart management device 10 acquires the customer identification information from the customer identification information input device (Yes in S204). That is, the customer identification information acquisition unit 11 acquires customer identification information in response to the detection of the return event. The functional configurations of the customer identification information input device and the customer identification information acquisition unit 11 are the same as those of the first to fourth embodiments.

After acquiring the customer identification information, the second granting unit 16 determines whether or not the privilege granting condition is satisfied (S205). The processing of the second granting unit 16 here is as described in the second embodiment. For example, the second granting unit 16 grants a privilege based on the usage time of the cart specified by using the date and time information recorded in S202, the movement trajectory of the cart, whether or not an item has been put in the cart, and the like. Determine if the conditions are met.

When the privilege granting condition is satisfied (Yes in S206), the second granting unit 16 performs a process for granting the privilege to the customer specified by the customer identification information acquired in S204 (S207). Specifically, the second granting unit 16 transmits the customer identification information acquired in S204 to the privilege management device 20, and grants the privilege to the customer specified by the customer identification information (eg, points). Addition, etc.) is requested.

On the other hand, if the privilege granting condition is not satisfied (No in S206), the process for granting the privilege is not performed and the process proceeds to S208.

In S208, it is determined whether to end the process. If it does not end (No in S208), the process returns to S201 and the same process is repeated.

After the return event is detected (Yes in S203), if the customer identification information is not acquired even after a predetermined time has elapsed (No in S204 and Yes in S209), the process proceeds to S208. The cart management device 10 waits for acquisition of customer identification information while a predetermined time has not elapsed (No in S209).

Here, a modified example will be described.

The cart management device 10 may have a third granting unit 17 instead of the second granting unit 16. Then, in S203, the detection unit 12 may specify the return area where the cart has returned. Then, in S207, the third granting unit 17 transmits the customer identification information acquired in S204 and the information for identifying the return area specified in S203 to the privilege management device 20, and provides the privilege according to the return area. You may request the process of giving (eg, addition of points, etc.). The process is as described in the third embodiment.

According to the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment described above, the same operation and effect as those of the first to third embodiments can be realized.

Further, according to the cart management device 10 of the present embodiment, which acquires customer identification information at the timing when the use of the cart is finished, an erroneous privilege is given without providing the dividing portion 14 described in the fifth embodiment. Can be suppressed.

Hereinafter, an example of the reference form will be added.
1. 1. Customer identification information acquisition means to acquire customer identification information,
Corresponding means for associating the customer identification information with the cart identification information that identifies the cart used or used by the customer specified by the customer identification information.
A detection means for detecting an event in which the cart returns to the return area,
When the detection means detects the event, the granting means for performing a process for granting a privilege to the customer specified by the customer identification information associated with the cart identification information of the returned cart.
Cart management device with.
2. 2. In the cart management device according to 1.
The granting means determines whether or not the condition for granting the privilege is satisfied in response to the detection of the event, and if it is determined that the condition is satisfied, the granting means grants the privilege to the customer specified by the customer identification information. A cart management device that performs processing for.
3. 3. In the cart management device according to 2.
The granting means is a cart management device that determines whether or not the conditions are satisfied based on the usage time of the cart.
4. In the cart management device according to 3.
The granting means is a cart management device that determines that the condition is satisfied when the usage time of the cart is equal to or longer than the reference value.
5. In the cart management device according to 3 or 4,
The granting means is the timing at which the cart returns to the return area or the customer identification information acquisition means from the timing when the cart leaves the storage area or the timing when the customer identification information acquisition means acquires the customer identification information. A cart management device that acquires the timing of acquiring customer identification information as the usage time of the cart.
6. In the cart management device according to 2.
The granting means is a cart management device that determines whether or not the conditions are satisfied based on the movement trajectory until the cart returns to the return area.
7. In the cart management device according to 6.
The granting means is a cart management device that determines that the conditions are satisfied when the cart has passed a predetermined area.
8. In the cart management device according to 7.
The predetermined area is a cart management device including at least one of an accounting area and a gate area provided at the entrance of a store.
9. In the cart management device according to 2.
The granting means is a cart management device that determines that the conditions are satisfied when an item is put in the cart by the time it returns to the return area.
10. In the cart management device according to any one of 1 to 9.
There are multiple return areas,
The benefits given when the cart is returned differ depending on the return area.
The detection means identifies the return area where the cart has returned and
The granting means is a cart management device that performs processing for granting benefits according to the return area where the cart has returned.
11. In the cart management device according to any one of 1 to 10.
The customer identification information acquisition means acquires the customer identification information at the timing when the use of the cart is started, and records the customer identification information as the current customer identification information indicating a customer who is using the cart.
The granting means is a cart management device that performs a process for granting the privilege to a customer specified by the recorded current customer identification information.
12. In the cart management device according to 11.
A cart management device further comprising a dividing means for erasing the recorded current customer identification information before the processing for granting the privilege by the granting means is performed.
13. In the cart management device according to 12.
The dividing means is a cart management device that erases the recorded current customer identification information when a predetermined operation is performed on the cart.
14. In the cart management device according to 12 or 13,
The dividing means erases the recorded current customer identification information if the cart does not leave the storage area even after a predetermined time has elapsed since the customer identification information acquisition means acquired the customer identification information. Cart management device.
15. In the cart management device according to any one of 1 to 10.
The customer identification information acquisition means acquires the customer identification information in response to the detection of the event.
The granting means is a cart management device that performs processing for granting a privilege to a customer specified by the customer identification information acquired by the customer identification information acquisition means.
16. The computer
The customer identification information acquisition process to acquire customer identification information and
A corresponding process for associating the customer identification information with the cart identification information that identifies the cart used or used by the customer specified by the customer identification information.
A detection process for detecting an event in which the cart returns to the return area,
When the event is detected in the detection step, the granting step of performing a process for granting a privilege to the customer specified by the customer identification information associated with the cart identification information of the returned cart. ,
How to manage carts to run.
17. Computer,
Customer identification information acquisition means to acquire customer identification information,
Corresponding means for associating the customer identification information with the cart identification information that identifies the cart used or used by the customer specified by the customer identification information.
A detection means for detecting an event in which the cart returns to the return area,
A granting means that, when the detecting means detects the event, performs a process for granting a privilege to a customer specified by the customer identification information associated with the cart identification information of the returned cart.
A program that functions as.

1A processor 2A memory 3A input / output I / F
4A Peripheral circuit 5A Bus 10 Cart management device 11 Customer identification information acquisition section 12 Detection section 13 First grant section 14 Division section 15 Corresponding section 16 Second grant section 27 Third grant section 20 Bonus management device

Claims (13)

A customer identification information acquisition means for acquiring customer identification information by an input means provided in the cart, and a customer identification information acquisition means.
When the customer identification information is acquired, the cart identification information for identifying the cart stored in the storage device provided in the cart for which the customer identification information is acquired is associated with the customer identification information. With the means of attachment,
A detection means for detecting an event in which the cart returns to the return area based on the position of the cart.
When the detection means detects the event, the granting means for adding points associated with the customer identification information associated with the cart identification information of the returned cart, and
Have,
When the event is detected, the granting means determines whether or not the condition for adding the points is satisfied, and when it is determined that the condition is satisfied, the addition of the points associated with the customer identification information is performed. ,
The granting means is a cart management device that determines that the condition is satisfied when the usage time of the cart specified by using the date and time when the customer identification information is acquired is equal to or longer than the reference value. A customer identification information acquisition means for acquiring customer identification information by an input means provided in the cart, and a customer identification information acquisition means.
When the customer identification information is acquired, the cart identification information for identifying the cart stored in the storage device provided in the cart for which the customer identification information is acquired is associated with the customer identification information. With the means of attachment,
A detection means for detecting an event in which the cart returns to the return area based on the position of the cart.
When the detection means detects the event, the granting means for adding points associated with the customer identification information associated with the cart identification information of the returned cart, and
Have,
When the event is detected, the granting means determines whether or not the condition for adding the points is satisfied, and when it is determined that the condition is satisfied, the addition of the points associated with the customer identification information is performed. ,
The granting means is a cart management device that determines that the conditions are satisfied when an item is put in the cart by the time it returns to the return area. In the cart management device according to claim 2,
The granting means is a cart management device that detects that an item has been placed in the cart by using a weight sensor provided in the cart that measures the weight of an object placed in the cart. A detection means that detects an event in which the cart returns to the return area based on the location of the cart after leaving the cart storage area.
When the event is detected, the customer identification information acquisition means for acquiring the customer identification information by the input means provided in the cart, and the customer identification information acquisition means.
A granting means for adding points associated with the acquired customer identification information, and
Have,
When the usage time of the cart specified by using the date and time when the customer identification information is acquired is equal to or longer than the reference value, the granting means determines that the condition for adding the points is satisfied, and the condition is satisfied. A cart management device that adds the points associated with the customer identification information when it is determined . In the cart management device according to claim 4 ,
There are multiple return areas,
The points to be added when the cart is returned are different for each return area.
The detection means identifies the return area where the cart has returned and
The granting means is a cart management device that adds higher points when the return area where the cart has returned is indoors than when it is outdoors. In the cart management device according to any one of claims 1 , 4, and 5 .
The granting means is specified based on the position of the cart, which is specified based on the position of the cart, from the timing when the cart leaves the storage area or the timing when the customer identification information acquisition means acquires the customer identification information. A cart management device that acquires the time when the cart returns to the return area or the timing when the customer identification information acquisition means acquires the customer identification information by the input means as the usage time of the cart. In the cart management device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 .
The customer identification information acquisition means accepts input of customer identification information by a customer using the input means, or acquires the biometric information of the customer using the input means, and the customer identification information and the biometric information are obtained in advance. A cart management device that acquires customer identification information associated with the biometric information acquired from a storage device that stores the information in association with each other. The computer
The customer identification information acquisition process that acquires customer identification information by the input means provided in the cart, and
When the customer identification information is acquired, the cart identification information for identifying the cart stored in the storage device provided in the cart for which the customer identification information is acquired is associated with the customer identification information. Attached process and
A detection process that detects an event in which the cart returns to the return area based on the position of the cart.
When the event is detected in the detection step, a granting step of adding points associated with the customer identification information associated with the cart identification information of the returned cart, and a granting step.
And run
In the application step,
When the event is detected, it is determined whether or not the condition for adding the points is satisfied, and when it is determined that the condition is satisfied, the points associated with the customer identification information are added.
A cart management method for determining that the condition is satisfied when the usage time of the cart specified by using the date and time when the customer identification information is acquired is equal to or longer than the reference value. The computer
The customer identification information acquisition process that acquires customer identification information by the input means provided in the cart, and
When the customer identification information is acquired, the cart identification information for identifying the cart stored in the storage device provided in the cart for which the customer identification information is acquired is associated with the customer identification information. Attached process and
A detection process that detects an event in which the cart returns to the return area based on the position of the cart.
When the event is detected in the detection step, a granting step of adding points associated with the customer identification information associated with the cart identification information of the returned cart, and a granting step.
And run
In the application step,
When the event is detected, it is determined whether or not the condition for adding the points is satisfied, and when it is determined that the condition is satisfied, the points associated with the customer identification information are added.
A cart management method for determining that the conditions are satisfied when an item is put in the cart before returning to the return area. The computer
A detection process that detects an event in which the cart returns to the return area based on the location of the cart after leaving the cart storage area.
A customer identification information acquisition step of acquiring customer identification information by an input means provided in the cart when the event is detected, and a customer identification information acquisition process.
A granting process for adding points associated with the acquired customer identification information, and
And run
In the granting step, when the usage time of the cart specified by using the date and time when the customer identification information is acquired is equal to or longer than the reference value, it is determined that the condition for adding the points is satisfied, and the condition is satisfied. A cart management method in which, when a determination is made, the points associated with the customer identification information are added . Computer,
A customer identification information acquisition means for acquiring customer identification information by an input means provided in the cart, and a customer identification information acquisition means.
When the customer identification information is acquired, the cart identification information for identifying the cart stored in the storage device provided in the cart for which the customer identification information is acquired is associated with the customer identification information. With the means of attachment,
A detection means for detecting an event in which the cart returns to the return area based on the position of the cart.
When the detection means detects the event, the granting means for adding points associated with the customer identification information associated with the cart identification information of the returned cart, and
To function as
When the event is detected, the granting means determines whether or not the condition for adding the points is satisfied, and when it is determined that the condition is satisfied, the addition of the points associated with the customer identification information is performed. ,
The granting means is a program that determines that the condition is satisfied when the usage time of the cart specified by using the date and time when the customer identification information is acquired is equal to or longer than the reference value. Computer,
A customer identification information acquisition means for acquiring customer identification information by an input means provided in the cart, and a customer identification information acquisition means.
When the customer identification information is acquired, the cart identification information for identifying the cart stored in the storage device provided in the cart for which the customer identification information is acquired is associated with the customer identification information. With the means of attachment,
A detection means for detecting an event in which the cart returns to the return area based on the position of the cart.
When the detection means detects the event, the granting means for adding points associated with the customer identification information associated with the cart identification information of the returned cart, and
To function as
When the event is detected, the granting means determines whether or not the condition for adding the points is satisfied, and when it is determined that the condition is satisfied, the addition of the points associated with the customer identification information is performed. ,
The granting means is a program that determines that the condition is satisfied when an item is put in the cart by the time it returns to the return area. Computer,
A detection means that detects an event in which the cart returns to the return area based on the location of the cart after leaving the cart storage area.
When the event is detected, the customer identification information acquisition means for acquiring the customer identification information by the input means provided in the cart, and the customer identification information acquisition means.
A granting means for adding points associated with the acquired customer identification information, and
To function as
When the usage time of the cart specified by using the date and time when the customer identification information is acquired is equal to or longer than the reference value, the granting means determines that the condition for adding the points is satisfied, and the condition is satisfied. A program that adds the points associated with the customer identification information when it is determined .

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