JP7720658B2 - Shelf label management system and method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a shelf label management system and method for managing shelf labels used to display products.

In recent years, the use of electronic shelf labels has been increasing in stores such as supermarkets, drugstores, and electronics retailers. Electronic shelf labels are equipped with small displays that can display product information such as prices, and can receive and display this product information from a management device (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Using these electronic shelf labels makes it easy to change product displays.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-024757

However, it would be difficult to install electronic shelf labels for all products due to the cost involved. Therefore, there is a need for technology that can effectively utilize the limited number of electronic shelf labels.

The present invention was made in consideration of the problems described above, and aims to provide a shelf label management system and method that enables the effective use of electronic shelf labels.

A shelf label management system according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first acquisition means for acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label, a second acquisition means for acquiring a product identifier, a print instruction means for instructing printing of product information corresponding to the product identifier in accordance with the number of updates to the display content of the electronic shelf label corresponding to the shelf label identifier, and an update means for updating the display content of the electronic shelf label in accordance with the number of updates.

A method according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first acquisition step of acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label, a second acquisition step of acquiring a product identifier, a print instruction step of issuing an instruction to print product information corresponding to the product identifier in accordance with the number of updates to the display content of the electronic shelf label corresponding to the shelf label identifier, and an update step of updating the display content of the electronic shelf label in accordance with the number of updates.

1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a shelf label management system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a management device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a product information database according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a transceiver according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an electronic shelf label information database according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a display example of an electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another display example of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the mobile terminal according to the first embodiment. 1 is a perspective view of a portable device according to a first embodiment; 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the shelf label management system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing yet another display example of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating another example of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a shelf label management system according to a second embodiment.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that in this specification and drawings, elements that can be similarly described will be assigned the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations may be omitted.

The explanation will be given in the following order:
1. Overview of the embodiments 2. First embodiment 2.1. System configuration 2.2. Operation example 2.3. Modification 3. Second embodiment 3.1. System configuration 3.2. Operation example 4. Other embodiments 5. Summary of the embodiments

<<1. Overview of the embodiment>>
First, an outline of the embodiment will be described.

Generally, each electronic shelf label has an identifier, and the identifier is linked to the product to manage specific information about the product (e.g., product name, selling price, specifications (place of origin), and sales promotion information). Furthermore, in supermarkets, for example, electronic shelf labels are typically managed by department. In such cases, even for the same cabbage in the produce department, the display on the electronic shelf label must be changed if the place of origin changes. For such products, it is more efficient to use electronic shelf labels rather than issuing handwritten POP advertisements each time. On the other hand, for standard items such as dry groceries, whose selling prices rarely change, linking them to electronic shelf labels is not very effective.

As mentioned above, electronic shelf tags are linked to suitable products for each department, but there are cases where all linked electronic shelf tags are used, and cases where spares are kept. By keeping spare electronic shelf tags, it is possible to respond to new products or unexpected events. An unexpected event would be, for example, when the number of products handled increases and new electronic shelf tags need to be assigned. Another unexpected event would be a malfunction of an electronic shelf tag.

As such, it is desirable to manage the switch between electronic shelf labels and paper price cards effectively.

Therefore, linking products that are updated (changed) frequently to electronic shelf labels and using price cards for products that are updated less frequently is an effective way to maximize investment returns.

The present invention was made in consideration of the problems described above, and aims to provide a shelf label management system and method that enables the effective use of electronic shelf labels.

According to this embodiment, it is possible to switch between electronic shelf labels and price cards depending on the update frequency of the electronic shelf labels, thereby enabling efficient use of electronic shelf labels and reducing investment costs.

<<2. First Embodiment>>
Next, a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

2.1. System Configuration
FIG. 1 shows an example of a schematic configuration of a shelf label management system according to a first embodiment.

The shelf label management system 100 includes a management device 110, transceivers 120 and 130, electronic shelf labels 140a, 140b, and 140c (hereinafter, referred to as 140 unless otherwise required), a mobile terminal 150, and a printing device 160. The shelf label management system 100 is installed in stores such as supermarkets, drugstores, and electronics retailers.

The management device 110 is connected to multiple electronic shelf labels 140a, 140b, and 140c via a transceiver 120 so that they can communicate with each other. The management device 110 is also connected to a mobile terminal 150 and a printing device 160 used by a store clerk via a transceiver 130 so that they can communicate with each other. The communication may be wired or wireless. The number of transceivers 120, 130, multiple electronic shelf labels 140a, 140b, and 140c, mobile terminals 150, and printing devices 160 is not limited to the example shown in the figure.

Figure 2 is a functional block diagram of the management device according to the first embodiment. The management device 110 includes a processing unit 111, a memory unit 116, a display unit 117, an input unit 118, and a communication interface unit 119.

The memory unit 116 is implemented, for example, by ROM, RAM, and storage memory. The memory unit 116 temporarily or permanently stores programs (instructions) and parameters for the operation of the processing unit 111, as well as various data (e.g., a product information database). The programs include one or more instructions for the operation of the processing unit 111.

The display unit 117 is, for example, an electronic paper or LCD display, and displays various information to the user (e.g., manager, store clerk, etc.) according to the display data output from the processing unit 111.

The input unit 118 is, for example, a mouse or keyboard, and accepts various inputs from the user. The input unit 118 provides the accepted input information to the processing unit 111 or stores it in the memory unit 116. The input unit 118 can also be a touch panel display integrated with the display unit 117.

The communication interface unit 119 is implemented by a network adapter and/or a network interface card, etc. The communication interface unit 119 receives signals from a network and transmits signals to the network. For example, the communication interface unit 119 communicates with the transceivers 120 and 130 via a wired or wireless network (e.g., a LAN (local area network)).

The processing unit 111 is realized by executing a program stored in the memory unit 116. The processing unit 111 includes an update count determination unit 112, a print instruction unit 113, and an electronic shelf label update unit 114. Note that the processing unit 111 may also include other components in addition to these components. In other words, the processing unit 111 may perform operations other than those of these components.

The update count determination unit 112 obtains the number of updates to the display content of the electronic shelf label for a product whose selling price has been changed by the user, compares the obtained number of updates with a predetermined threshold (i.e., a predetermined value), and determines whether to change from an electronic shelf label to a price card. The number of updates to the electronic shelf label can be obtained from the transceivers 120 and 130, which will be described later.

The print instruction unit 113 instructs the printing device 160 to print the product information displayed on the electronic shelf label based on the determination of the number of updates of the electronic shelf label. More specifically, if the number of updates of the electronic shelf label is below a predetermined threshold, the printing of the product information is instructed in order to switch from electronic shelf labels to price cards. This is because the efficiency gains of electronic shelf labels are small when the number of updates is low. Compared to price cards, electronic shelf labels can update display information such as prices more quickly, reducing the labor required for updating product information (e.g., printing and replacing price cards). However, if the number of updates is low, the investment costs become significant. If the number of updates is low, the electronic shelf label can be switched to a price card, and unused electronic shelf labels can be collected and used to display other products. The user can input and set a predetermined threshold in advance via the input unit 118. The input predetermined threshold can be stored, for example, in the memory unit 116. The predetermined threshold value may be set to a different value depending on the type of electronic shelf label (e.g., size), or may be set to a different value for each department or category. In addition, the number of updates and the applicable period may be set to changeable as appropriate.

The electronic shelf label update unit 114 updates the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 according to the result of the update count determination. For example, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 updates the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 to erase (initialize) the product display content. If the electronic shelf label 140 uses electronic paper for its display, initialization may display a solid white or black color, an arbitrary initial display setting, or a display indicating unused or unconfigured. At this time, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 may cancel the correspondence between the electronic shelf label and the product (also referred to as link information or connection information) stored in the transceiver 120 (described below). Alternatively, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 may update the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 to the product information of the next product to be displayed. Furthermore, if the electronic shelf label 140 is a device loaned from a provider, initialization may display that the electronic shelf label 140 is a returned item, along with the return destination and date. If the electronic shelf label 140 is provided on a subscription basis, when the electronic shelf label 140 is returned or switched to use at another store, a message to that effect may be displayed. Furthermore, for example, when the selling price of a product is changed, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 updates the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 in accordance with the change. Note that when candidates for changing from price cards to electronic shelf labels have been determined (for example, when candidates have been extracted based on the number of price card updates or issuances over a predetermined period of time), the candidates may be changed in order of priority.

Figure 3 shows an example of a product information database according to the first embodiment. The product information database (DB) 300 is stored in the storage unit 116 and stores product information data.

The product information DB 300 may include JAN/PLU codes (product identifiers), product names, and sales prices. JAN/PLU codes (product identifiers) are unique identifiers assigned to products and are generally attached to products as barcodes. JAN (EAU) codes are represented by 8 or 13 digits. PLU (Price Look Up) codes are generally represented by 6 to 8 digits. The user can register, update, and delete product information in the product information DB 300 via the input unit 118. For example, if the sales price is changed, the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 is updated to display the changed sales price. Regarding sales prices, in addition to the product information DB 300, the sale information in the sales plan master is also referenced. If multiple sales plans are set for the same product, the lowest price is displayed preferentially on the electronic shelf label 140. For example, this month's bargain items may be on sale even more if you specify a day of the week, so the product information DB 300 is usually given the lowest priority for reference. The items included in the product information DB 300 are not limited to these, and may include other items.

Figure 4 is a functional block diagram of the transceiver according to the first embodiment. The transceiver 120 includes a processing unit 121, a storage unit 126, a communication interface unit 127, and an input/output unit 128.

The memory unit 126 is implemented, for example, by ROM, RAM, and storage memory. The memory unit 126 temporarily or permanently stores programs (instructions) and parameters for the operation of the processing unit 121, as well as various data (e.g., an electronic shelf label information database). The programs include one or more instructions for the operation of the processing unit 121.

The communication interface unit 127 is implemented by a network adapter and/or a network interface card, etc. The communication interface unit 127 receives signals from a network and transmits signals to the network. For example, the communication interface unit 127 communicates with the management device 110 and with the electronic shelf label 140 via a wired or wireless network (e.g., a LAN (local area network)).

The processing unit 121 is realized by executing a program stored in the memory unit 126. The processing unit 121 includes an electronic shelf label identification unit 122 and an update count management unit 123. Note that the processing unit 121 may also include other components in addition to these components. In other words, the processing unit 121 may perform operations other than those of these components.

The electronic shelf label identification unit 122 identifies the electronic shelf label 140 to which the product information received from the management device 110 is sent and which is associated with the product information. The electronic shelf label 140 can be identified by referring to the electronic shelf label information database described below.

The update count management unit 123 manages the number of updates for the electronic shelf label 140. When product information is received from the management device 110, the update count management unit 123 references the electronic shelf label information database (described below) and updates the number of updates for the electronic shelf label 140 associated with the product information. Note that, as will be described in more detail below, the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 can be updated due to changes in selling price, sales information, etc.

Figure 5 shows an example of an electronic shelf label information database according to the first embodiment. The electronic shelf label information database (DB) 500 is stored in the storage unit 126 and stores electronic shelf label information.

The electronic shelf label information DB 500 may include a shelf label identifier, a JAN/PLU code (product identifier), and the number of updates. The shelf label identifier is a unique identifier assigned to each of the electronic shelf labels 140a, 140b, and 140c. In the electronic shelf label information DB 500, the shelf label identifier is associated with a JAN/PLU code (product identifier). This correspondence allows the electronic shelf label identification unit 122 to identify the electronic shelf label 140 to which the product information is to be sent. Furthermore, as described below, multiple JAN/PLU codes (product identifiers) may be associated with one shelf label identifier. In other words, the electronic shelf label 140 can display product information for multiple products. The number of updates indicates the number of times the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 has been updated. The number of updates is managed by the update count management unit 123 and is updated by the update count management unit 123 when the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 is updated due to a price change or other reason. The update count determination unit 112 of the management device 110 can obtain the update count stored in the electronic shelf label information DB 500 and perform processing. Note that the items included in the electronic shelf label information DB 500 are not limited to these, and can include other items.

Figure 6 shows an example of the display of an electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. The electronic shelf label 140 includes a control unit 141, a battery 142, a memory unit 146, a communication interface unit 147, and a display unit 148.

The memory unit 146 stores product information received from the transceiver 120 via the communication interface unit 147. The communication interface unit 147 may be a small antenna. The control unit 141 displays the product information stored in the memory unit 146 on the display unit 148. The display unit 148 may be electronic paper, a small LCD display, or the like. The display unit 148 can display product information as a multi-color bitmap image. The type and display format of the electronic shelf label 140 are pre-set. For example, the user can specify the font and font size for the price display area within the display format. In addition, the product name display area, standard display area, and promotional display area are also pre-set, and the user can specify the illustrations and marks to be displayed. The electronic shelf label 140 is powered by a battery 142. The more frequently the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 is updated, the faster the battery 142 will wear out, requiring the electronic shelf label 140 to be replaced. The electronic shelf label 140 may be equipped with a tag (not shown) (for example, an RF tag, an IC tag, or an NFC tag) for identifying the electronic shelf label 140. The mobile terminal 150 can obtain the identification information of the electronic shelf label 140 by reading the tag.

Figure 7 shows an example of the display of an electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. Display example 700 in Figure 7(a) and display example 710 in Figure 7(b) are each examples in which product information for one product is displayed on one electronic shelf label. Display example 700 includes a product name 701, a barcode 702 indicating the product identifier, additional information 703, a selling price 704, and a barcode 705 indicating the shelf label identifier. Display example 710 similarly includes a product name 711, a barcode 712 indicating the product identifier, additional information 713, a selling price 714, and a barcode 715 indicating the shelf label identifier.

In the display example 700 of FIG. 7(a), "recommended items" and the like are displayed as additional information 703, but this is not limiting. Information such as bundle sales, in which a discount is offered by purchasing a certain number of products, set match sales, in which a discount is offered by combining specific products, mix match sales, in which a discount is offered by combining any products from a specific range, and three prices for one item may also be displayed as additional information 703. In the display example 710 of FIG. 7(b), information such as the origin of the product is displayed as additional information 713. In this way, electronic shelf labels can display a variety of information as additional information.

Figure 8 shows another example of the display of an electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. Display example 800 displays product information 801, 802, 803, and 804 for four products on a single electronic shelf label. By displaying in this manner, a single electronic shelf label can display product information for four products that are adjacent to each other vertically and horizontally on the shelf.

Figure 9 is a functional block diagram of a mobile terminal according to the first embodiment. The mobile terminal 150 has a processing unit 151, a memory unit 156, a scanner unit 157, an input unit 158, and a communication interface unit 159. The mobile terminal 150 is also referred to as a handheld terminal. A user can have the mobile terminal 150 read the product identifier and shelf label identifier displayed on the electronic shelf label 140, and then replace the electronic shelf label 140 with a paper price card. Alternatively, the user can have the mobile terminal 150 read the contents displayed on the price card, and then switch from the price card to the electronic shelf label 140.

The memory unit 156 is implemented, for example, by ROM, RAM, and storage memory. The memory unit 156 temporarily or permanently stores programs (instructions) and parameters for the operation of the processing unit 151, as well as various data. The programs include one or more instructions for the operation of the processing unit 151.

The scanner unit 157 can read barcodes indicating product identifiers or barcodes indicating shelf label identifiers. In other words, the mobile terminal 150 may be a barcode reader.

The input unit 158 may be, for example, a numeric keypad for entering numbers. The user can press the numeric keypad to enter the product identifier of a product that does not have a barcode. Alternatively, the input unit 158 may be configured to allow the entry of a shelf label identifier.

The communication interface unit 159 receives signals from the network and transmits signals to the network. For example, the communication interface unit 159 communicates with the management device 110 via the transceiver 130.

The processing unit 151 is realized by executing a program stored in the storage unit 156. The processing unit 151 includes a control unit 152, an imaging unit 153, and an image processing unit 154. Note that the processing unit 151 may further include other components in addition to these components. In other words, the processing unit 151 may perform operations other than those of these components.

The control unit 152 transmits the product identifier or shelf label identifier read by the scanner unit 157 and the product identifier or shelf label identifier input to the input unit 158 to the management device 110.

The imaging unit 153 captures an image of the electronic shelf label 140 or price card and stores the image data in the memory unit 156.

The image processing unit 154 analyzes the image captured by the imaging unit 153. For example, when switching from the electronic shelf label 140 to a price card, the image processing unit 154 analyzes the image of the printed price card (printed matter) to extract product name and price information, and determines whether it matches the content displayed on the electronic shelf label 140 (i.e., the product information data stored in the product information DB 300). In other words, the image processing unit 154 can function as a determination unit. The image processing unit 154 may also be provided in the management device 110.

Alternatively, image data captured by the imaging unit 153 can be stored in the memory unit 156 and used to record the user's work or manage work results.

Figure 10 is a perspective view of a portable device according to the first embodiment. A user can roam around the store with the portable device 1000 to attach and remove electronic shelf labels and print price cards and POP advertisements.

The portable device 1000 holds the mobile terminal 150 so that it can be removed by the user. The electronic shelf label box 1001 for attachment stores electronic shelf labels that users attach to product shelves. The printing device 160 prints price cards (e.g., paper price tags) to be attached to product shelves on roll paper 161. When the user uses the mobile terminal 150 to read or input a product identifier, the printing device 160 can print a price card corresponding to the product identifier. The printing device 160 can also print spotters (promotional materials) to be attached to product shelves. Price cards and spotters printed by the printing device 160 are ejected into the tray 1004. The stock box 1002 stores spare toner cartridges and roll paper for the printing device 160. The collected electronic shelf label box 1003 stores electronic shelf labels collected by users. For example, electronic shelf labels that have been switched to price cards or electronic shelf labels with dead batteries. The portable device 1000 is equipped with rotatably mounted casters 162.

The printing device 160 is a portable printer that receives and prints price cards and spotters from the mobile device 150. Meanwhile, the mobile device 150 can also send printing instructions for POPs, which have a larger print size, to the management device 110, which then prints the POP on a printing device installed in a store office or other location. For either type of printing instruction, the management device 110 can determine the destination printing device based on the print format and type of paper medium. In this way, the destination of the printing instruction can be controlled by either the management device 110 or the mobile device 150.

<2.2. Operation example>
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the shelf label management system according to the first embodiment.

First, in S101, the mobile terminal 150 acquires the shelf label identifier of the target electronic shelf label 140. Specifically, the user causes the mobile terminal 150 to read the barcode (shelf label identifier) attached to the target electronic shelf label 140. The acquired shelf label identifier is sent to the management device 110.

Next, in S102, the mobile terminal 150 acquires the product identifier displayed on the target electronic shelf label 140. Specifically, the user causes the mobile terminal 150 to read the barcode (product identifier) of the product displayed on the target electronic shelf label 140. The acquired product identifier is sent to the management device 110.

Next, in S<b>103 , the update count determination unit 112 of the management device 110 obtains the update count of the target electronic shelf label 140 from the electronic shelf label information database (DB) 500 .

Next, in S104, the update count determination unit 112 determines whether the acquired update count is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold. If it is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold, the process proceeds to S105; if it is not, the process ends. If the update count is greater than the predetermined threshold, the electronic shelf label will continue to be used, and the process ends immediately.

In S105, the print instruction unit 113 acquires product information for the product corresponding to the product identifier acquired in S102 from the product information DB 300, and instructs the printing device 160 to print the acquired product information.

Next, in S106, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 updates the display content of the target electronic shelf label. For example, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 erases and initializes the display content of the target electronic shelf label. Alternatively, the electronic shelf label update unit 114 may update the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 to product information for the next product to be displayed. Furthermore, if the electronic shelf label 140 is a rental device, the display content of the electronic shelf label 140 may be updated to indicate that the item is being returned, as well as the return destination and date.

The user attaches the printed price cards to product shelves and collects the updated electronic shelf labels. In this way, the electronic shelf label management system according to this embodiment switches electronic shelf labels that have been updated a predetermined number of times or less to price cards. This enables the effective use of electronic shelf labels.

Note that when multiple products are displayed on a single electronic shelf label, that is, when multiple product identifiers are associated with a single electronic shelf label, the print instruction unit 113 may not issue a print instruction and the electronic shelf label update unit 114 may not perform an update. Alternatively, when multiple product identifiers are associated with a single electronic shelf label, if at least one of the multiple products identified by the multiple product identifiers meets a predetermined condition, the print instruction unit 113 may not issue a print instruction and the electronic shelf label update unit 114 may not perform an update. The predetermined condition may be, for example, at least one of the following: the product is a specific product (e.g., a product that is not subject to change from an electronic shelf label to a price card) and the number of updates of the electronic shelf label for that product is greater than a predetermined value. In this embodiment, in such a case, switching from electronic shelf labels to price cards may not be performed. Alternatively, the switch from electronic shelf labels to price cards may be determined and performed for each product displayed horizontally or vertically among the multiple products displayed.

When switching from paper to electronic shelf labels, the display content of the electronic shelf labels is already set in the cloud service or upper management device, including the product (product code, product identifier), display format, selling price, additional information to be displayed, and instructions such as whether the LED lamp should be lit or flashing and the color of the light. More information on LED lamps is provided below. If a schedule for the display content of a product has been set, specifically, during store opening processing on the day when the display content is to be changed, such as from a sale price to a regular price, the display content is updated for only the electronic shelf labels whose display content will be changed that day or the following day, or for all electronic shelf labels. (Since communication tests and location checks are performed, if a communication error occurs, location or malfunction must be confirmed.) In this case, an initialization command is sent, followed by a display content instruction command. (If no update is required, the same display content is repeatedly instructed; if the display content is to be updated, a new display content instruction is sent.) Since electronic shelf labels with updated display content, such as updated selling prices, are visually inspected by store staff before opening, work efficiency can be improved by using color-coded lit or flashing LED lamps so that the updated content can be clearly identified at a glance. Based on the information from the electronic shelf labels that have been checked, a command to stop the flashing or lighting of the LED lamp can be sent only to the corresponding electronic shelf labels, completing the pre-opening check. To stop the check, the host management device simultaneously sends a stop command to the repeaters to the electronic shelf labels (addressed to the electronic shelf label identifier) whose display content is to be updated. Alternatively, a mobile device such as a handheld terminal can scan (read, if using NFC) the identifier of the checked electronic shelf label and send it to the host management device in real time or via batch processing, which can then be compared with the identifier of the electronic shelf label that has been updated in the host management device to check for forgotten checks.

When a product code (product identifier) is acquired using a mobile device such as a handheld terminal, the type and display format of the electronic shelf label linked to that product code are displayed on the screen, allowing store staff to check. Furthermore, if the format is displayable on that type of electronic shelf label, it can be changed on the spot. Even if the required additional information has not been set, it may be possible to enter information in the same way as setting it on a higher-level management device. However, it is also possible to restrict changes to be made easily using authority management, etc.

Naturally, the setting of product codes for one product per display and the display format for multiple products are controlled so that they cannot be set in the settings on the upper management device, so there is little risk of mistakes being made during on-site work (an alert will be issued). However, when making changes based on authorization, items that cannot be mutually set on the mobile device are controlled so that they cannot be selected or entered.

Also, for spare electronic shelf tags on-site, a display format that can display multiple products can be selected, and when multiple products are set, restrictions can be placed on the simultaneous display of different categories, departments, classifications, etc. For example, a restriction can be placed so that meat and dairy products cannot be displayed simultaneously on the same electronic shelf tag. As another pattern, by referencing a sales planning master (schedule), etc., it is possible to display products from multiple different categories simultaneously in cases such as set matches. Of course, product selection can also be forced by using authorization.

2.3. Modifications
Modifications of this embodiment will be described below. The modifications described below may be combined with the above embodiment and other modifications as appropriate.

(1) First Modification Example Fig. 12 shows yet another display example of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. Display example 1200 includes a product name 1201, a barcode 1202 indicating a product identifier, additional information 1203, a selling price 1204, and a barcode 1205 indicating a shelf label identifier, as well as a star-shaped mark 1206 and date information 1207. Mark 1206 is a replacement guide mark indicating that the electronic shelf label has been updated less than or equal to a predetermined threshold. Date information 1207 indicates the date on which mark 1206 is displayed. Note that it is also possible to display only either mark 1206 or date information 1207. The shape of mark 1206 is not limited to a star shape and may be another shape.

In this modified example, the update count determination unit 112 of the management device 110 obtains the update count of each electronic shelf label from the electronic shelf label information database (DB) 500 at a predetermined timing (for example, once a month). The update count determination unit 112 then compares the obtained update count with a predetermined threshold, and updates the display of electronic shelf labels whose update count is below the predetermined threshold so that the mark 1206 is displayed. This allows the user to easily identify the electronic shelf labels that should be switched to price cards.

Instead of mark 1206, the acquired number of updates may be displayed on the electronic shelf label. In this case, the user may decide whether to switch from electronic shelf labels to price cards based on the number of updates displayed on the electronic shelf label. Date information 1207 may indicate the date on which the number of updates was displayed. Date information 1207 may also indicate the scheduled date on which the work is to be completed.

Furthermore, when a special sale or the like ends and the display content of the electronic shelf label is updated, the number of updates to the electronic shelf label can be determined, and if the number of updates is low, mark 1206 can be displayed to encourage switching from the electronic shelf label to a price card. This is not limited to special sales, and can also be implemented in the same way when bundles, mix-and-matches, and set-matches are displayed as additional information.

13 shows another example of the electronic shelf label according to the first embodiment. An electronic shelf label 1300 according to this modification includes an LED lamp 1301. The LED lamp 1301 can change its emitted color in response to an instruction from the management device 1101, and can light up in different colors.

LED lamp 1301 can indicate work instruction categories to store clerks. For example, LED lamp 1301 is useful when store clerks check electronic shelf tags whose display contents have been updated with the next day's information overnight. Before opening, store clerks visually inspect electronic shelf tags for products whose prices have changed using the day's flyers and update information lists. By turning on LED lamp 1301 on electronic shelf tags with changed prices, it becomes easier to find the relevant electronic shelf tag. Furthermore, when the display format changes due to a sale, specifically when multiple products are displayed using a sale mark or split display to display the product names and unit prices of each product, as well as information such as bundles (bulk purchases), mix-and-match, set-match, and three-for-one deals, store clerks must check additional information in addition to the price. In such cases, using different colors for LED lamp 1301 for electronic shelf tags that only check prices and those that check both price and additional information makes it easier to divide tasks among multiple store clerks and enables efficient checking. Furthermore, if the LED lamps 1301 of the electronic shelf labels that are the target of the work of switching between electronic shelf labels and price cards are lit in different colors, it becomes easier to find the electronic shelf label that is the target of the work. Also, the store clerk can understand the work content just by checking the light color of the LED lamps 1301. Furthermore, the LED lamps 1301 may be lit separately for each person in charge (store clerk).

<<3. Second embodiment>>
Next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 14. The first embodiment described above is a specific embodiment, but the second embodiment is a more generalized embodiment.

3.1. System Configuration
14 shows an example of the schematic configuration of a shelf label management system according to the second embodiment. The shelf label management system 1400 includes a management device 1401, a mobile terminal 1421, a printing device 1423, and electronic shelf labels 1424. The management device 1401 also includes a print instruction unit 1412 and an electronic shelf label update unit 1413.

The management device 1401 may be implemented with one or more processors, memory (e.g., non-volatile memory and/or volatile memory), and/or a hard disk.

<3.2. Operation example>
An example of the operation of the shelf label management system 1400 according to the second embodiment will be described. According to the second embodiment, the mobile terminal 1421 (first acquisition means) acquires the shelf label identifier of the electronic shelf label and transmits it to the management device 1401. The mobile terminal 1421 (second acquisition means) also acquires a product identifier and transmits it to the management device 1401. The management device 1401 (print instruction unit 1412) instructs the printing device 1423 to print product information corresponding to the product identifier, depending on the number of updates of the electronic shelf label corresponding to the acquired shelf label identifier. The management device 1401 (electronic shelf label update unit 1413) also updates the display content of the electronic shelf label depending on the number of updates.

Relationship with the First Embodiment As an example, the management device 1401, mobile terminal 1421, printing device 1423, and electronic shelf label 1424 included in the shelf label management system 1400 according to the second embodiment may respectively perform the operations of the management device 110, mobile terminal 150, printing device 160, and electronic shelf label 140 of the shelf label management system 100 according to the first embodiment. In this case, the description of the first embodiment also applies to the second embodiment. Note that the second embodiment is not limited to these examples.

The second embodiment has been described above. According to the second embodiment, for example, electronic shelf labels can be used effectively.

<<4. Other Embodiments>>
Although the embodiments have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that these embodiments are merely examples and that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

For example, the steps in the processes described herein do not necessarily have to be performed chronologically in the order described. For example, the steps in the processes may be performed in an order different from the order described, or may be performed in parallel. Also, some of the steps in the processes may be deleted, and additional steps may be added to the processes.

A method may also be provided that includes the processing of the components described herein (e.g., the information acquisition unit, the judgment unit, and/or the output unit), and a program may also be provided that causes a processor (CPU) to execute the processing of the above components. Also, a non-transitory computer-readable medium on which the program is recorded may also be provided. Naturally, such devices, modules, methods, programs, and non-transitory computer-readable medium are also included in the present invention.

<<5. Overview of the embodiment>>
[Technical Field]
The present invention relates to a shelf label management system and method for managing shelf labels used to display products.
[Background technology]
In recent years, the use of electronic shelf labels (ESLs) has been increasing in stores such as supermarkets, drug stores, and electronics retailers. Electronic shelf labels have a small display capable of displaying product information such as prices, and can receive and display the product information from a management device (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Using such ESLs makes it easy to change product displays.
[Prior art documents]
[Patent Documents]
[Patent Document 1] JP 2020-024757 A [Summary of the Invention]
[Problem to be solved by the invention]
However, it would be cost prohibitive to install electronic shelf labels on all products, so there is a need for technology that can effectively utilize the limited number of electronic shelf labels.
The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to provide a shelf label management system and method that enables effective use of electronic shelf labels.
[Means for solving the problems]
(1) One aspect of this embodiment is a system including: a first acquisition unit that acquires a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label;
The shelf label management system includes a second acquisition means for acquiring a product identifier, a print instruction means for instructing printing of product information corresponding to the product identifier according to the number of updates to the display content of the electronic shelf label corresponding to the shelf label identifier, and an update means for updating the display content of the electronic shelf label according to the number of updates.
According to the above configuration, the electronic shelf labels can be used effectively.
(2) One aspect of this embodiment is the shelf label management system described in (1), characterized in that, when the number of updates of the electronic shelf label is equal to or less than a predetermined value, the print instruction means issues an instruction to print, and the update means updates the display content.
According to the above configuration, when the number of updates of the electronic shelf label is equal to or less than a predetermined value, price cards are printed and the electronic shelf label is updated, so that electronic shelf labels can be switched to price cards for products for which there is little need to use electronic shelf labels.
(3) One aspect of this embodiment is the shelf label management system described in (1) or (2), characterized in that when multiple product identifiers are associated with the electronic shelf label, the print instruction means does not instruct the printing and the update means does not update the display content.
According to the above configuration, it is possible to prevent electronic shelf labels that display multiple products from being switched to price cards.
(4) One aspect of this embodiment is the shelf label management system described in (1) or (2), wherein, when a plurality of product identifiers are associated with the electronic shelf label, if at least one product among a plurality of products identified by the plurality of product identifiers satisfies a predetermined condition, the print instruction means does not issue the print instruction, and the update means does not update the display content.
According to the above configuration, if any of the multiple products displayed on the electronic shelf label is not eligible for switching to a price card, it is possible to prevent switching to a price card.
(5) One aspect of this embodiment is the shelf label management system described in (4), characterized in that the predetermined condition includes at least one of the following: the product is a specific product; and the number of updates of the electronic shelf label for the product is greater than a predetermined value.
According to the above configuration, similar to (4), if any of the multiple products displayed on the electronic shelf label is not eligible for conversion to a price card, conversion to a price card can be prevented.
(6) One aspect of this embodiment is the shelf label management system described in any one of (1) to (5), characterized in that the update means initializes the display content of the electronic shelf label or updates it to product information of the next product to be displayed.
According to the above configuration, the update process for the electronic shelf label to be switched can be carried out efficiently.
(7) One aspect of this embodiment is a shelf label management system according to any one of (1) to (6), characterized in that it further comprises an imaging means for imaging a printed material on which the product information is printed.
According to the above configuration, the operation of switching to a price card can be recorded.
(8) One aspect of this embodiment is the shelf label management system described in (7), characterized in that it further includes a determination means for analyzing an image captured by the imaging means and determining whether it matches the content displayed on the electronic shelf label.
According to the above configuration, it is possible to check whether the operation of switching to a price card has been performed correctly.
(9) One aspect of this embodiment is a method including a first acquisition step of acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label, a second acquisition step of acquiring a product identifier, a print instruction step of instructing printing of product information corresponding to the product identifier in accordance with the number of updates to the display content of the electronic shelf label corresponding to the shelf label identifier, and an update step of updating the display content of the electronic shelf label in accordance with the number of updates.
According to the above configuration, similar to (1), it is possible to effectively use electronic shelf labels.

100 shelf label management system 110 management device 120, 130 transceiver 140a, 140b, 140c electronic shelf label 150 mobile terminal 160 printing device

Claims (7)

A management device and an electronic shelf label information database are provided,
The management device
a first receiving means for acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label;
a second receiving means for acquiring a product identifier;
acquires the update count of the target electronic shelf label identified from the shelf label identifier acquired by the first receiving means and the product identifier acquired by the second receiving means from the electronic shelf label information database that stores the shelf label identifier in association with the update count ;
an update count determination means for determining whether the acquired update count is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold ;
and a print instruction means for instructing printing of a price tag according to product information of the product corresponding to the product identifier acquired by the second receiving means when the update count determination means determines that the acquired update count is equal to or less than a threshold value.
Shelf label management system. an electronic shelf label updating means that initializes the display content of a target electronic shelf label when the update count determining means determines that the acquired update count is equal to or less than a threshold value;
The shelf label management system according to claim 1 , comprising: When a plurality of products are displayed on the electronic shelf label corresponding to the shelf label identifier acquired by the first receiving means, the print instruction means does not issue a print instruction.
The shelf label management system according to claim 1 . When a plurality of products are displayed on the electronic shelf label corresponding to the shelf label identifier acquired by the first receiving means, the electronic shelf label update means does not initialize the display content.
The shelf label management system according to claim 2 . a first receiving means for acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label;
a second receiving means for acquiring a product identifier;
acquires the update count of the target electronic shelf label from an electronic shelf label information database that stores the shelf label identifier in association with the update count, based on the shelf label identifier acquired by the first receiving means and the product identifier acquired by the second receiving means ;
an update count determination means for determining whether the acquired update count is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value;
a print instruction means for instructing printing of a price tag according to product information of the product corresponding to the product identifier acquired by the second receiving means when the update count determination means determines that the acquired update count is equal to or less than a threshold value;
A management device comprising: A program for causing a computer to function as a shelf label management system,
The computer
a first receiving means for acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label;
a second receiving means for acquiring a product identifier;
an update count determination means for obtaining the update count of the target electronic shelf label from an electronic shelf label information database that stores the update count in association with the shelf label identifier obtained by the first receiving means and the product identifier obtained by the second receiving means, and determining whether the obtained update count is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold;
Functioning as a
A program for functioning as a print instruction means that, when the update count determination means determines that the acquired update count is below a threshold value, instructs the second receiving means to print a price card according to the product information of the product corresponding to the product identifier acquired by the second receiving means. A program for causing a computer to function as a management device in a shelf label management system,
The computer
a first receiving means for acquiring a shelf label identifier of an electronic shelf label;
a second receiving means for acquiring a product identifier;
an update count determination means for obtaining the update count of the target electronic shelf label from an electronic shelf label information database that stores the shelf label identifier in association with the update count based on the shelf label identifier obtained by the first receiving means and the product identifier obtained by the second receiving means , and determining whether the obtained update count is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold;
Functioning as a
A program for functioning as a print instruction means that, when the update count determination means determines that the acquired update count is below a threshold value, instructs the second receiving means to print a price card according to the product information of the product corresponding to the product identifier acquired by the second receiving means.