JP2025028163A - Weighing device, program - Google Patents

Abstract

To improve the sale of products that are sold by weighing.SOLUTION: A weighing device comprises: weighing means that weighs the tare mass being the mass of a container; writing means that writes the tare mass weighed by the weighing means into a non-contact ID medium attached to a label; and output means that outputs information that indicates the completion of writing of the tare mass by the writing means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

The present invention relates to a weighing device, a sales method, and a program.

For example, a system is known that weighs and sells products (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Publication No. 6-50740

However, there was room for improvement in the sale of products sold by weight.

The present invention was made in light of these circumstances, and its purpose is to provide technology that improves sales of products that are sold by weighing.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a weighing device according to one aspect of the present invention includes a weighing means for measuring the tare weight, which is the mass of the container, a writing means for writing the tare weight measured by the weighing means onto a non-contact ID medium attached to a label, and an output means for outputting a signal indicating that writing of the tare weight by the writing means has been completed.

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a store to which a weighing device 20 according to an embodiment is applied. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the appearance of a weighing device 20. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of a weighing device 20. 11 is an example of information stored in the weighing device 20. 11 is an example of information stored in the weighing device 20. 11 is an example of a screen in the weighing device 20. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing how to register a my container. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a state of purchasing a product using a personal container. 1 is an example of a label that is printed and issued by the weighing device 20. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 20. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 20. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 20. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 20. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 20. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 20. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 20. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 20. 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (first screen transition example). 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (first screen transition example). 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (a second screen transition example). 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (a second screen transition example). 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (third example of a screen transition). 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (third example of a screen transition). 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (fourth screen transition example). 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (fourth screen transition example). 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (a fifth example of a screen transition). 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (a fifth example of a screen transition). 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (sixth screen transition example). 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (sixth screen transition example). 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (seventh example of a screen transition). 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (seventh example of a screen transition). 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (eighth screen transition example). 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (eighth screen transition example). 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (ninth example of a screen transition). 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (ninth example of a screen transition). 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (tenth screen transition example). 11 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (an eleventh example of a screen transition). 11 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (an eleventh example of a screen transition). 12 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (a twelfth example of a screen transition). 12 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (a twelfth example of a screen transition). 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (a thirteenth example of a screen transition). 13 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (fourteenth screen transition example). 15 is an example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20 (a 15th example of a screen transition).

Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a store to which a weighing device 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. Figure 1 shows the inside of the store. The back right side of the screen is a display area for products (products sold by weight, such as dried fruits, nuts, and seeds). The front left side of the screen is a weighing area.

In the display area, display containers 300 are arranged according to the type of dried fruit. The display containers 300 have a top lid 310. A customer lifts the top lid 310 of the display container 300 and places the desired dried fruit (contents in the display container 300) from the display container 300 into a container for purchase (a "my container" or a store container, described below).

In the display area, display containers 400 are also arranged for different types of nuts and beans. The display containers 400 have push-down sections 410. Customers push down the push-down sections 410 of the display containers 400 and place the desired nuts or beans (contents within the display containers 400) from the containers 400 into a container for purchase.

A weighing device 20 is installed in the weighing area. A customer places an item in a purchase container in the display area, then moves to the weighing area with the purchase container and weighs the item using the weighing device 20. In other words, the weighing device 20 is basically operated by the customer themselves. However, a store clerk may operate it on behalf of the customer in response to a call to the store clerk (such as by sending a call message to a terminal (not shown) operated by the store clerk).

Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the appearance of the weighing device 20. Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of the weighing device 20. In Figures 2 and 3, the same parts are given the same reference numerals. Below, the configuration of the weighing device 20 shown in Figure 3 will be explained with reference to Figure 2.

The weighing device 20 includes a CPU 21 (Central Processing Unit), a ROM 22, a RAM 23, a scanner unit 24, a weighing unit 25, a touch display 26, an audio output unit 27, a printing unit 28, and a wireless tag reading unit 29.

The CPU 21 is a central processing unit that controls the operation of the weighing device 20 by reading and executing programs stored in the ROM 22.

The ROM 22 is a read-only memory and stores various information used by the CPU 21, including programs.

RAM 23 is a read/write memory that stores various information, such as information read from ROM 22 and information obtained via the wireless tag reader/writer 29.

The scanner unit 24 optically reads various types of information. For example, the scanner unit 24 reads various codes (bar codes, two-dimensional codes, etc.). Note that the scanner unit 24 is omitted from Figures 1, 19(C), etc.

The weighing unit 25 weighs items (products, containers, etc.) placed on the platform 25a, for example, using a weight detection method using a load cell.

The touch display 26 displays various information to customers and also has a touch panel, functioning as an operation unit.

The audio output unit 27 outputs audio. For example, the audio output unit 214 outputs audio guidance, etc.

The printing unit 28 is a printer device that issues media. For example, the printing unit 28 generates (prints) a printed matter (hereinafter also referred to as a "label") on which information about the product being sold (such as a barcode that encodes the price information of the product) is printed, and discharges (issues) the printed matter from the label discharge port 28a.

The wireless tag reader 29 reads and writes information from a non-contact IC tag. An example of a non-contact IC tag is an RFID (radio frequency identifier) tag. In the following description, a non-contact IC tag may be referred to as a wireless tag, a wireless IC tag, or the like. The wireless tag reader 29 reads and writes information between the wireless tag (IC tag) and the IC tag through short-distance wireless communication using an electromagnetic field, radio waves, or the like. For example, as will be described in detail in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, in this embodiment, a label with a wireless tag attached (a label with a wireless tag built in) is prepared, and the wireless tag reader 29 reads and writes weight information of a container to which the label is attached between the wireless tag attached to the label. The type of IC tag may be any of a passive tag, an active tag, and a semi-active tag (activated active tag) that combines both, but a passive tag that does not require a battery is preferable because it is built into a label that is attached to a container. The wireless tag reader 29 emits radio waves that serve as the energy source for the IC tag (passive tag).

The weighing device 20 may also have a clock function (timekeeping function). A weighing device 20 with a clock function can manage, for example, the current time, the remaining time until a certain time, and the elapsed time since a certain state was reached.

The weighing device 20 may also be equipped with a communication unit that transmits and receives information to and from other devices wirelessly (e.g., wireless LAN (Local Area Network), Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc.) or via a wired connection.

In addition, in FIG. 3, the weighing device 20 is described as having a configuration including a CPU 21, a ROM 22, and a RAM 22, but the weighing device 20 may be configured to have an MCU (Micro Controller Unit) instead.

Figures 4 and 5 are examples of information stored by the weighing device 20. The weighing device 20 stores a product file (also called a product master) that holds basic information about the product (product name, price, etc.). For example, the weighing device 20 stores a product file (also called a product master) as shown in Figure 4.

If the weighing device 20 has a communication unit, it may receive and store product files from an external device (such as a management device installed in the store (not shown) or a cloud server located outside the store). The same applies to other files such as the product button setting file (described later).

The product file shown in Figure 4 includes the following data items: product identification information, product name, measurement category, unit price, and unit weight. Product identification information is identification information that identifies an individual product. Product name is the name of the product.

The weighing category is a category related to weighing. Weighing category "0" is the weighing category that corresponds to "unfixed weight." Unfixed weight is a sales method in which the selling price is determined based on a preset unit price per unit weight ("100g" in this embodiment) and the weight to be sold (measured value). For products in weighing category "0 (unfixed weight)," the selling weight is required to determine the selling price, so weighing using the weighing device 20 is required.

When the measurement category is "0 (unfixed weight)", the unit price column stores the unit price per unit weight, and the unit weight column stores the unit weight. For example, for a product with product identification information "SH001" (product name "AAA"), it is stored that the unit price per 100 g is 250 yen. Therefore, for a product with the product name "AAA", if the measurement value is 50 g, the selling price will be 125 yen, and if the measurement value is 200 g, the selling price will be 500 yen.

Measurement category "1" is the measurement category that corresponds to "fixed weight". Fixed weight is a sales method in which the selling price is determined based on a preset unit price ("1 piece" in this embodiment) and the sales quantity converted from the unit weight. For products in measurement category "1 (fixed weight)", the quantity of the product is calculated (estimated) from the unit weight of the product (weight of one piece, which is the unit quantity; already stored) and the measurement value, and the selling price is determined from the calculated quantity of the product and the unit price per unit quantity, so weighing with the weighing device 20 is necessary. Note that the weight error of an individual may be corrected using an accuracy correction function provided in a counting scale, etc.

When the measurement category is "1 (fixed weight)", the unit price column stores the unit price per unit weight (i.e. quantity 1), and the unit weight column stores the unit weight equivalent to quantity 1. For example, for a product with product identification information "SH103" (product name "ABC"), it is stored that the unit price per unit (weight 80g) is 90. Therefore, for a product with the product name "ABC", if the measurement value is around 85g, the selling price will be 90 yen for one unit, and if the measurement value is around 150g, the selling price will be 180 yen for two units.

Measurement category "2" is the measurement category that corresponds to "fixed price." Fixed price is a sales method in which the sales price is determined based on a preset unit price ("1 piece" in this embodiment) and the sales quantity input as the number of items placed. For products in measurement category "2 (fixed price)," the sales quantity is determined by the number of items placed, regardless of weight, so there is no need to measure using the weighing device 20.

When the measurement category is "2 (fixed price)", the unit price column stores the unit price per quantity (nothing is stored in the unit weight column). For example, for a product with product identification information "SH150" (product name "AAAA"), the unit price per unit is stored as 120. Therefore, for a product with the product name "AAAA", if the quantity input value is 1, the selling price will be 120 yen for one unit, and if the quantity input value is 2, the selling price will be 240 yen for two units.

The weighing device 20 also stores a store container file (also called a container master; not shown) that holds basic information about store containers (weight, etc.).

The store container file (not shown) includes store container identification information, store container weight information, and store container price information as data items. Store container identification information is container identification information related to a store container. Container identification information is identification information that identifies a container. Container identification information is identification information that can identify, for example, my container, container S (one of the store containers), container M (one of the store containers), and container L (one of the store containers). For example, container identification information "10" is my container, container identification information "21" is container S, container identification information "22" is container M, and container identification information "23" is container L. As described above, since store container identification information is container identification information related to a store container, store container identification information "21" is container S, store container identification information "22" is container M, and store container identification information "23" is container L. Store container weight information is weight information of each store container. Store container price information is price information of each store container.

The weighing device 20 also stores in the RAM 22 a button setting file relating to buttons that are operably displayed on the touch display 26. For example, the weighing device 20 stores in the RAM 22 a product button setting file ( FIG. 5 ) relating to product buttons and a container button setting file (not shown) relating to container buttons.

The product button setting file shown in FIG. 5 includes product identification information, product button identification information, and button images as data items. Product identification information is identification information that identifies an individual product. Product button identification information is identification information that identifies a product button. Button images are image data of product buttons. In other words, the product button setting file stores the relationship between products and product buttons.

The container button setting file (not shown) includes container identification information, container button identification information, and button image as data items. The container identification information is identification information that identifies a container. The container button identification information is identification information that identifies a container button. The container button identification information is identification information that can identify, for example, each of the My Container button, the store container button, the Container S button (one of the store container type buttons), the Container M button (one of the store container type buttons), and the Container L button (one of the store container type buttons). The button image is image data of the container button. In other words, the container button setting file stores the relationship between the container and the container button.

Note that the above-mentioned files are examples of files stored by the weighing device 20, and the weighing device 20 may store files other than the above-mentioned files.

The weighing device 20 is only required to be able to refer to the above-mentioned example files, and the weighing device 20 itself does not necessarily have to store such files. In other words, the above-mentioned files may be stored in an external device (such as a management device installed in the store (not shown) or a cloud server located outside the store), and the weighing device 20 may access the external device as appropriate to obtain the information in the files.

Figure 6 is an example of a screen in the weighing device 20. The weighing device 20 displays a screen such as that shown in Figure 6 (weighing operation screen) on the touch display 26 as an initial screen, for example, before starting a weighing operation.

The weighing operation screen shown in FIG. 6 includes a product name display field 1200, a unit price display field 1201, a tare weight display field 1202, a net weight/measurement value display field 1203, a sales price display field 1204, various product buttons (product A product button 1210a, product B product button 1210b, product C product button 1210c, product D product button 1210d, product E product button 1210e), a product search button 1211, and various container buttons (my container button 1220, store container button 1230).

The product name display field 1200 is a display field that displays the product name. When a product is identified, the weighing device 20 displays the product name of the product in the product name display field 1200. For example, when a product is identified by operating a product button, the weighing device 20 displays the product name of the product in the product name display field 1200.

The unit price display field 1201 is a display field that displays the unit price per unit weight of the product. When a product is identified, the weighing device 20 displays the unit price of the product in the unit price display field 1201. For example, when a product is identified by operating a product button, the weighing device 20 displays the unit price of the product in the unit price display field 1201.

The container display field 1202 is a display field that displays the weight of the container. When the weight of the container is identified, the weighing device 20 displays the weight in the container display field 1202. For example, when the weight of my container is read by the wireless tag reading unit, the weighing device 20 displays the weight in the container display field 1202. In addition, when the type of store container is identified by operating the store container type button, the weighing device 20 displays the weight of that type of store container in the container display field 1202.

The container display field 1202 can display information other than the container weight. For example, the container type and the recognition result of the my container can also be displayed in the container display field 1202. In FIG. 19(A), the container display field 1202 displays the words "my container" as the container type. In FIG. 19(B), the container display field 1202 displays a mark "◎" indicating that the my container has been recognized as the recognition result. In FIG. 19(C), the container display field 1202 displays a mark "x" indicating that the my container has not been recognized as the recognition result. In FIG. 21(A), the container display field 1202 displays the words "store container" as the container type. In FIG. 21(C), the container display field 1202 displays the words "container M" as the container type.

The net amount/measurement value display field 1203 is a display field that displays the net amount (net weight, net value) and the measurement value (total weight including tare weight; gross value). When a container (including a product) is placed on the platform 25a, the weighing device 20 displays the measurement value of the container (including the product) in the net amount/measurement value display field 1203. For example, as shown in FIG. 19 (B), the weighing device 20 displays the measurement value of the container (including the product) in small brackets in the net amount/measurement value display field 1203 (the lower area of the same field). In addition, when the weighing device 20 recognizes (acquires) both the measurement value and the weight of the tare weight, it calculates the net amount (calculated by subtracting the weight of the tare weight from the measurement value) and displays the calculated net amount in the net amount/measurement value display field 1203. For example, as shown in FIG. 19(C), the weighing device 20 displays the calculated net amount in the net amount/measurement value display field 1203 (the central area within the field).

The sales price display field 1204 is a display field that displays the sales price of the product. When the weighing device 20 recognizes (acquires) both the unit price and net quantity of the product, it calculates the sales price (by multiplying the unit price by the net quantity) and displays the calculated sales price in the sales price display field 1204.

Product A button 1210a is a button for specifying (selecting) product A. The same applies to product B button 1210b, product C button 1210c, product D button 1210d, and product E button 1210e. Product search button 1211 is a button for searching for and specifying a product, in addition to specifying a product using the product buttons. When product search button 1211 is operated, for example, a screen for searching for and specifying a product by product name, or a screen for specifying narrowed-down products based on classification is displayed.

The My Container button 1220 is a button for selecting My Container when selecting either My Container or Store Container. The Store Container button 1230 is a button for selecting Store Container when selecting either My Container or Store Container.

Note that since there are multiple types of store containers, when a store container is selected when selecting either my container or store container, the weighing device 20 displays store container type buttons to select one of the multiple types of store containers. For example, when the store container button 1230 is operated, the weighing device 20 displays a container S button (a button that displays "Container S 5 yen"), a container M button (a button that displays "Container M 7 yen"), and a container L button (a button that displays "Container S 5 yen"), as shown in FIG. 21 (A).

The weighing device 20 can also weigh a container (including a product) before either my container or a store container is selected. The weighing device 20 displays buttons that allow the user to respond (select) the container placed on the platform 25a. For example, if a container (including a product) is placed on the platform 25a before either my container or a store container is selected and the weighing device 20 does not recognize the container as my container, it displays a Yes (store container) button or a No (my container) button to allow the user to respond as to whether the container is a store container, as shown in FIG. 27(A).

Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram showing how to register a my container. Registering a my container means storing the weight of the my container as the weight of the container in the wireless tag attached to the label attached to the my container. When registering a my container, first, a label 80 is attached to a container 70 brought by the customer (the container to be registered as my container). A wireless tag 81 is attached to the label 80. The label 80 with the wireless tag 81 attached may be called an RFID label. The center of Figure 7 shows an unregistered (before registration) my container 71 after the label 80 has been attached. It is also preferable that the label 80 is made of a water-resistant material.

Next, the unregistered my container 71 is placed on the weighing device 20. The weighing device 20 weighs the unregistered my container 71 placed on the weighing device 20. The weighing value is the weight of the container (my container 71). After weighing the my container 71, the weighing device 20 writes the weighing value to the wireless tag 81 attached to the label 80 attached to the my container 71. As a result, the unregistered my container 71 becomes a registered my container 71. Note that in FIG. 7, the my container is explained before and after the weighing value (weight) is stored in the wireless tag 81, so for convenience, the unregistered my container 71 and the registered my container 71 are explained separately. However, the my container in other figures (other scenes) is a my container whose weighing value (weight) is stored in the wireless tag, so in other figures, when the word "my container" is simply mentioned, it refers to a registered my container.

The weighing device 20 registers the my container 71 on a screen for registering my container (my container registration mode). The weighing device 20 may transition to a screen for registering my container (my container registration mode) depending on the operation. As the screen for registering my container, the weighing device 20 displays, for example, a message to place an unregistered my container 71 on the weighing device 20 before placing the container (before the container is detected as being placed) (see the left screen of the three screens on the left, center, and right at the top of FIG. 7), a message indicating that the container is being weighed during weighing (see the center screen of the three screens), and a message indicating that the weighing value has been written to the wireless tag 81 after writing the weighing value to the wireless tag 81 has been completed (see the right screen of the three screens).

The task of attaching the label 80 to the container 70 may be performed by the customer himself or by a store clerk. Also, the task of placing the unregistered my container 71 on the weighing device 20 may be performed by the customer himself or by a store clerk.

Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram showing how to purchase a product using a personal container. The customer places the desired product 90 in a registered personal container 71 that they have brought with them. The center of Figure 8 shows the personal container 71 with the product 90 placed inside.

Next, the customer places the container 71 containing the product 90 (i.e., the product 90 contained in the container 71) on the weighing device 20. The weighing device 20 weighs the product 90 contained in the container 71. The weighing device 20 also reads (reads out) the weight of the container 71 (the weight of the container) stored in the wireless tag 81 attached to the label 80 attached to the container 71. The weighing device 20 calculates the net amount of the product 90 based on the weighing value and the weight of the container 71 (calculated by subtracting the weight of the container from the weighing value). The weighing device 20 also identifies the product placed on the container 71 (the product contained in the container 71) as the product 90 based on the customer's operation, etc. The weighing device 20 calculates the selling price based on the unit price of the product 90 and the net amount of the product 90 (calculated by multiplying the unit price by the net amount). After displaying the selling price, the weighing device 20 prints and issues a label as shown in FIG. 9A. The customer attaches the label issued by the weighing device 20 to the container 71, for example, and moves to the location of a device (not shown) capable of performing at least the registration process of registering the product. The registration process of at least registering the product may be a registration and settlement device (such as a conventional POS terminal) capable of performing the registration process and the settlement process, or a registration-only device that exclusively performs the registration process. After the registration process in the registration-only device, the customer moves to the location of a device (not shown) capable of performing at least the settlement process and performs the settlement process. The device capable of performing at least the settlement process may be the registration and settlement device, or it may be a settlement-only device that exclusively performs the settlement process.

The weighing device 20 used to register a my container 71 (the weighing device 20 on which an unregistered my container 71 is placed) and the weighing device 20 used to purchase a product (the weighing device 20 on which a registered my container 71 is placed) may be the same weighing device 20 or different weighing devices 20. As one embodiment of the latter operation, for example, the weighing device 20 may be installed at a service counter, a store clerk may register a my container 71 using the weighing device 20 installed at the service counter, and a customer may purchase a product using the my container 71 using the weighing device 20 installed in the weighing area.

9 is an example of a label printed and issued by the weighing device 20. After weighing each product (after calculating the selling price), the weighing device 20 uses the printing unit 28 to print and issue a label such as that shown in FIG. 9. FIG. 9(A) is a label when a personal container is used. On the label in FIG. 9(A), "my bottle" is printed as a notation that a personal container was used. In other words, personal containers may be called "my bottles" at different stores. The 827 yen on the label in FIG. 9(A) is a special personal bottle price obtained by deducting the my bottle discount amount (20 yen) when a personal bottle is used from the amount (847 yen) for the net amount (121 g) of (original nut mix) with a unit price (yen/100 g) of 700 yen. Although not printed in the example in FIG. 9(A), the my bottle discount amount (20 yen) may also be printed. The barcode on the label in FIG. 9(A) is, for example, a coded version of the amount (847 yen). As described below, the price of container A is 30 yen, whereas a personal bottle (my container) is 0 yen, so the price of a personal bottle (my container) may be explicitly printed as 0 yen.

Note that, although a specified amount (20 yen in the above case) is deducted from the total price as a discount when a reusable bottle is used, other discounts may also be used. For example, the unit price may be discounted (i.e., a specified percentage may be deducted from the total price). Note that a discount when a reusable bottle is used is not required.

Figure 9(B) shows a label when a store container is used. On the label in Figure 9(B), "Container A" is printed to indicate that a store container was used. In this example, the price of container A is 30 yen, so "30 yen" is printed. The 877 yen on the label in Figure 9(B) is the amount obtained by adding the 30 yen price of container A to the 847 yen described in Figure 9(A). The barcode on the label in Figure 9(B) is, for example, a coded version of the amount (877 yen).

The barcode on the label is read, for example, by a device (not shown) capable of performing at least the registration process. That is, the customer places the product in a purchase container in the display area, moves to the weighing area with the purchase container, weighs the product using the weighing device 20, issues a label as described above, and then moves to the location of the device capable of performing at least the registration process. It is preferable that the label issued by the weighing device 20 is affixed to the container (my container, store container). In addition, in a device capable of performing at least the registration process, the barcode on the label may be read by a store clerk or the customer himself. That is, in a device capable of performing at least the registration process, the registration process may be performed by the operation of a store clerk or the operation of the customer himself.

Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 20. Specifically, Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 20 when registering a my container. At the start of the flowchart in Figure 10, the weighing device 20 is displaying a screen for registering a my container (see, for example, the screen in the upper left of Figure 7).

Step S10: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not placement has been detected. If it is determined that placement has been detected (Step S10: YES), proceed to Step S11. If it is determined that placement has not been detected (Step S10: NO), return to Step S10 (i.e., wait until an unregistered my container is placed).

Step S11: The weighing device 20 acquires the weighing value (the weight of the container that is the tare). The weighing device 20 acquires the stable numerical value after placement as the weighing value, but after placement but before acquiring the weighing value (until the numerical value stabilizes), it displays that weighing is in progress (for example, see the screen in the upper center of Figure 7).

Step S12: The weighing device 20 writes the weighing value as the tare weight on an RFID label (a label with a wireless tag attached). More specifically, the weighing device 20 writes the weighing value obtained in step S11 (the weight of the container) on the wireless tag attached to the label attached to the container.

Step S13: The weighing device 20 displays a message indicating that writing has been completed (see, for example, the screen on the upper right side of FIG. 7). Then, the flowchart in FIG. 10 ends. Note that the weighing device 20 may display the written information (the weight of the container) in addition to displaying that writing has been completed.

FIGS. 11 to 17 are flow charts showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 20. Specifically, FIGS. 11 to 17 are flow charts showing an example of the operation of the weighing device 20 when purchasing a product. The processes in FIG. 12 are processes that follow step S100 (NO) in FIG. 11. The processes in FIGS. 13 and 14 are processes that follow step S200 (NO) in FIG. 11. The processes in FIGS. 15 to 17 are processes that follow step S300 (NO) in FIG. 11. Note that in the explanation of FIGS. 11 to 17, it is assumed that there is no discount when using a personal bottle.

(Explanation of the flow chart in FIG. 11)
Step S100 in Fig. 11: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not the product to be weighed has been identified. That is, the weighing device 20 determines whether or not product identification information of the product to be weighed has been stored (e.g., temporarily stored in RAM 23; the same applies to other information below). If it is determined that the product to be weighed has been identified (step S100: YES), the process proceeds to step S200. If it is determined that the product to be weighed has not been identified (step S100: NO), the process proceeds to step S101 in Fig. 12.

Step S200: The weighing device 20 determines whether the weight of the container has been acquired. In other words, the weighing device 20 determines whether the weight information of the container has been stored. If it is determined that the weight of the container has been acquired (Step S200: YES), the process proceeds to Step S300. If it is determined that the weight of the container has not been acquired (Step S200: NO), the process proceeds to Step S201 in FIG. 13.

Step S300: The weighing device 20 determines whether the weighing value (total weight including tare weight) has been acquired. In other words, the weighing device 20 determines whether weighing information has been stored. If it is determined that the weighing value has been acquired (Step S300: YES), proceed to Step S400. If it is determined that the weighing value has not been acquired (Step S300: NO), proceed to Step S301 in FIG. 15.

Step S400: The weighing device 20 determines whether all identification and acquisition has been completed. In other words, it determines whether the product to be weighed has been identified, the container weight has been acquired, and the weight value has been acquired. If it is determined that all have been completed (Step S400: YES), it proceeds to Step S410. If it is determined that one or more have not been completed (Step S400: NO), it returns to Step S100.

Step S410: The weighing device 20 calculates the net weight of the product to be weighed and the selling price of the product to be weighed. Specifically, the weighing device 20 calculates the net weight of the product to be weighed based on the weighing information (weighing value) and the weight information of the container. Furthermore, if the container (container) is a personal container, the weighing device 20 calculates the selling price of the product to be weighed based on the unit price by weight of the product to be weighed and the net weight of the product to be weighed, and if the container (container) is a store container, the weighing device 20 calculates the selling price of the product to be weighed based on the unit price by weight of the product to be weighed, the net weight of the product to be weighed, and the price information of the store container (container). Then proceed to step S420.

Step S420: The weighing device 20 displays the net amount of the product to be weighed and the selling price of the product to be weighed. In other words, the weighing device 20 displays the net amount of the product to be weighed and the selling price of the product to be weighed calculated in step S410. Then, the process proceeds to step S430.

Step S430: The weighing device 20 issues a label. Specifically, the weighing device 20 issues a label that displays the sales price of the product to be weighed calculated in step S410. This flow chart then ends.

(Explanation of the flow chart in FIG. 12)
Step S101 in Fig. 12: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not a product has been specified. That is, the weighing device 20 determines whether or not a product button has been touched on the touch display 26. If it is determined that a product has been specified (step S101: YES), the weighing device 20 proceeds to step S102. If it is determined that a product has not been specified (step S101: NO), the weighing device 20 proceeds to step S200 in Fig. 11.

Step S102: The weighing device 20 identifies the specified product as the product to be weighed. The weighing device 20 also stores the product identification information of the product to be weighed (e.g., temporarily stores it in RAM 23; the same applies to other information below). For example, the weighing device 20 stores the product identification information (see FIG. 5) corresponding to the touched product button as the product identification information of the product to be weighed. Then, proceed to step S103.

Step S103: The weighing device 20 displays the product name, etc., of the product to be weighed. In other words, the weighing device 20 displays the product name (see Figures 4 and 5) corresponding to the touched product button on the touch display 26. Then, proceed to step S104.

Step S104: If the weighing device 20 is only waiting for the item to be placed, it displays a message requesting that the item be placed. Then, the process proceeds to step S200 in FIG. 11. Note that a case in which the weighing device is only waiting for the item to be placed includes, for example, a case in which the item to be weighed has already been identified and the weight of the store container (tare weight) has been obtained but the weighing value has not been obtained, or a case in which the item to be weighed has already been identified and my container has been selected but the weight (tare weight) and weighing value of my container have not been obtained.

(Explanation of the flow charts in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14)
Step S201 in Fig. 13: The weighing device 20 judges whether or not a my container has been selected. That is, the weighing device 20 judges whether or not information indicating that a my container is to be used is stored. If it is judged that a my container has been selected (step S201: YES), the process proceeds to step S300 in Fig. 11. If it is judged that a my container has not been selected (step S201: NO), the process proceeds to step S202.

Step S202: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not a my container has been selected. That is, the weighing device 20 determines whether or not the my container button has been touched on the touch display 26. If it is determined that a my container has been selected (step S202: YES), the process proceeds to step S203. If it is determined that a my container has not been selected (step S202: NO), the process proceeds to step S211 in FIG. 14.

Step S203: The weighing device 20 stores information indicating that the my container will be used. For example, the weighing device 20 stores the container identification information corresponding to the touched my container button as the container information regarding the container used. Then, the process proceeds to step S204.

Step S204: The weighing device 20 displays a message indicating that the user is to use his/her own container. Then the process proceeds to step S205.

Step S205: If the weighing device 20 is simply waiting for the item to be placed, it displays a message requesting that the item be placed. Then, the process proceeds to step S300 in FIG. 11.

Step S211 in FIG. 14: The weighing device 20 determines whether a store container has been selected. In other words, the weighing device 20 determines whether information indicating that a store container is to be used has been stored. If it is determined that a store container has been selected (step S211: YES), proceed to step S250. If it is determined that a store container has not been selected (step S211: NO), proceed to step S230.

Step S230: The weighing device 20 determines whether a store container has been selected. That is, the weighing device 20 determines whether the store container button has been touched on the touch display 26. If it is determined that a store container has been selected (Step S230: YES), the process proceeds to Step S231. If it is determined that a store container has not been selected (Step S230: NO), the process proceeds to Step S300 in FIG. 11.

Step S231: The weighing device 20 stores information indicating that a store container will be used. For example, the weighing device 20 stores the container identification information (store container identification information) corresponding to the touched store container button as the container information regarding the container used. Then, the process proceeds to step S232.

Step S232: The weighing device 20 displays that a store container will be used. Then the process proceeds to step S233.

Step S233: The weighing device 20 displays a message prompting the user to select the type of store container. Then the process proceeds to step S250.

Step S250: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not a type of store container has been selected. That is, the weighing device 20 determines whether or not any of the store container type buttons for each type of store container (e.g., container S button, container M button, container L button) on the touch display 26 has been touched. If it is determined that a type of store container has been selected (step S250: YES), proceed to step S251. If it is determined that a type of store container has not been selected (step S250: NO), proceed to step S300 in FIG. 11.

Step S251: The weighing device 20 acquires the weight information of the store container of that type as container weight information. Specifically, the weighing device 20 stores the store container weight information corresponding to the touched store container type button as container weight information. Then, the process proceeds to step S252.

Step S252: The weighing device 20 displays that the store container of that type will be used. Then, the process proceeds to step S253.

Step S253: The weighing device 20 displays the weight of the container (store container of the relevant type). In other words, the weighing device 20 displays the weight information of the store container of the relevant type acquired in step S251. Then, the process proceeds to step S254.

Step S254: If the weighing device 20 is simply waiting for the item to be placed, it displays a message requesting that the item be placed. Then, the process proceeds to step S300 in FIG. 11.

(Explanation of the flow charts in FIG. 15 to FIG. 17)
Step S301 in Fig. 15: The weighing device 20 judges whether or not placement has been detected. If it is judged that placement has been detected (step S301: YES), the process proceeds to step S302. If it is judged that placement has not been detected (step S301: NO), the process proceeds to step S400 in Fig. 11.

Step S302: The weighing device 20 acquires the weighing value (total weight including the tare weight). The weighing device 20 stores the weighing value as weighing information. Then, proceed to step S303.

Step S303: The weighing device 20 displays the weighing value. In other words, the weighing device 20 displays the total weight including the tare weight obtained in step S301. Then, the process proceeds to step S310.

Step S310: The weighing device 20 determines whether the weight of the container has been acquired. If it is determined that the weight of the container has been acquired (step S310: YES), the process proceeds to step S400 in FIG. 11. If it is determined that the weight of the container has not been acquired (step S310: NO), the process proceeds to step S311 in FIG. 16.

Step S311 in FIG. 16: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not the my container has been recognized. If it is determined that the my container has been recognized (step S311: YES), the process proceeds to step S312. If it is determined that the my container has not been recognized (step S311: NO), the process proceeds to step S320 in FIG. 17.

Step S312: The weighing device 20 displays a message indicating that the my container has been recognized. Then, the process proceeds to step S313.

Step S313: The weighing device 20 acquires the weight information of the container as the weight of the container. Specifically, the weighing device 20 reads the weight information of the container from the RFID label of the container (the label attached to the container) (more specifically, from the wireless tag attached to the label) and stores it as the weight information of the container. Then, the process proceeds to step S314.

Step S314: The weighing device 20 displays the weight of the container (the container in question). In other words, the weighing device 20 displays the weight information of the container in question obtained in step S313. Then, the process proceeds to step S400 in FIG. 11.

Step S320 in FIG. 17: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not a my container has been selected. If it is determined that a my container has been selected (step S320: YES), the process proceeds to step S321. If it is determined that a my container has not been selected (step S320: NO), the process proceeds to step S322.

Step S321: The weighing device 20 displays a message to the effect that the customer's container was not recognized, and a message to the customer to reload the customer's container. The process then returns to step S301 in FIG. 15. Note that if the situation does not change after returning to step S301 (if the customer's container is still not recognized), the process of steps S301 to S321 will be repeated, but if a predetermined time has passed, the process of calling a store clerk may be executed even if there is no operation by the customer.

The reasons why a personal container is not recognized as a personal container include, for example, a damaged wireless tag, a malfunction of the reader (wireless tag reading unit 29), misreading of information, etc. Also, if the container is outside the scope of management (if the data structure is different from the original, for example, due to specifications from another store), at the very least, the personal container is not recognized as a personal container.

If a store clerk is called, the customer may try several more times before refilling the container into a store container and selling it (for 0 yen), or the customer may re-register the container. A predetermined percentage of the weighing value may be entered as the weight of the container. In other words, a predetermined percentage (percentage) of the gross value may be treated as the tare weight when calculating the net value from the gross value. The weighing device 20 executes a process (hereinafter referred to as percentage tare process) in which a predetermined percentage of the gross value is set as the tare weight based on the operation of the store clerk. For example, the weighing device 20 may display a button for executing percentage tare process, and execute percentage tare process in response to the operation of the button.

Step S322: The weighing device 20 determines whether a store container has been selected. If it is determined that a store container has been selected (step S322: YES), the process proceeds to step S350. If it is determined that a store container has not been selected (step S322: NO), the process proceeds to step S323.

Step S323: The weighing device 20 displays a message indicating that the my container was not recognized and a message to confirm the placed container. In other words, the weighing device 20 detects that a container has been placed (step S301 (YES)), but does not recognize the my container (step S311 (NO)), and since neither the my container nor the store container has been selected (step S320 (NO), step S322 (NO)), it checks whether the placed container is a store container. Then it proceeds to step S330.

Step S330: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not there has been a response that the placed container is a store container (a selection to place a store container). If it is determined that there has been a response that the placed container is a store container (a selection to place a store container) (Step S330: YES), the process proceeds to Step S331. If it is determined that there has not been a response that the placed container is a store container (a selection to place a store container) (Step S330: NO), the process proceeds to Step S340.

Step S331: The weighing device 20 stores information indicating that a store container will be used. Then, the process proceeds to step S332.

Step S332: The weighing device 20 displays that a store container will be used. Then the process proceeds to step S333.

Step S333: The weighing device 20 displays a message prompting the user to select the type of store container. Then the process proceeds to step S350.

Step S340: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not there has been an answer that the placed container is not a store container (a selection that my container has been placed). If it is determined that there has been an answer that the placed container is not a store container (a selection that my container has been placed) (Step S340: YES), proceed to Step S341. If it is determined that there has not been an answer that the placed container is not a store container (a selection that my container has been placed) (Step S340: NO), return to Step S330.

Step S341: The weighing device 20 displays a message indicating that the container was not recognized and a message to reload the container. Then, the process returns to step S301 in FIG. 15. If the situation does not change after returning to step S301, the process of steps S301 to S321 will be repeated (since the container was answered as the container in step S340, after returning to step S301, step S320 (YES) will be obtained and steps S301 to S321 will be repeated), but if a predetermined time has passed, the process of calling a store clerk may be executed even if there is no operation by the customer.

Step S350: The weighing device 20 determines whether or not a type of store container has been selected. If it is determined that a type of store container has been selected (step S350: YES), the weighing device 20 proceeds to step S351. If it is determined that a type of store container has not been selected (step S350: NO), the weighing device 20 returns to step S350 (i.e., waits until a type of store container is selected).

Step S351: The weighing device 20 acquires the weight information of the store container of that type as the weight information of the container. Then, the process proceeds to step S352.

Step S352: The weighing device 20 displays that the store container of that type will be used. Then, the process proceeds to step S353.

Step S353: The weighing device 20 displays the weight of the container (store container of that type). Then proceed to step S400 in FIG. 11.

Figures 18 to 43 show examples of screen transitions on the weighing operation screen of the weighing device 20. Note that in Figures 18 to 43, the symbols for columns and buttons have been omitted to avoid cluttering the drawings.

(First screen transition example)
Figures 18 and 19 show a first example of screen transitions in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Figures 18 and 19 show screens in several situations when the user selects product A, selects my container, and places it, and recognizes my container. The screens transition in this order: Figure 18(A) → Figure 18(B) → Figure 18(C) → Figure 18(D) → Figure 19(A) → Figure 19(B) → Figure 19(C). The same applies to the second to fifteenth examples of screen transitions.

(Example of operation)
When the user operates in the order of selecting product A, selecting my container, and placing it (to be precise, all of these operations are performed in an instant; the same applies to other screen transition examples), and my container is recognized, the weighing device 20 operates, for example, as follows, as explained with reference to the flowcharts in Figures 11 to 17. Note that "step Sx" will be abbreviated to simply "Sx".

S100 (NO) → S101 (YES) → S102 → S103 → S104 → S200 (NO) → S201 (NO) → S202 (YES) → S203 → S204 → S205 → S300 ( NO) → S301 (YES) → S302 → S303 → S310 (NO) → S311 (YES) → S312 → S313 → S314 → S400 (YES) → S410 → S420 → S430

Figure 18 (A) shows the state before the operation starts. Figure 18 (B) shows the scene when the product button for product A is touched. Figure 18 (C) shows the scene after the product button for product A is touched. In Figure 18 (C), the product name and unit price of product A are displayed as the product to be weighed (S103). Figure 18 (D) shows the scene when the My Container button is touched. Figure 19 (A) shows the scene after the My Container button is touched. In Figure 19 (A), a message is displayed to the effect that the My Container will be used (S204), and a message is displayed to place the container (S205). Figure 19 (B) shows the scene after the My Container containing product A has been placed. In Figure 19 (B), the weighing value is displayed (S303), a message is displayed to the effect that the My Container has been recognized (i.e., the container has been recognized operationally by simply placing it. The same applies to Figure 24 (D), etc.) (S312), and the weight of the container (the My Container) is displayed (S314). FIG. 19(C) shows the scene after the net amount and selling price of the product to be weighed have been calculated. In FIG. 19(C), the net amount and selling price of the product to be weighed are displayed (S420).

If the user performs the operations in the order of Select Product A → Select My Container → Place, and the My Container is not recognized, the screen transitions in the order of Fig. 18(A) → Fig. 18(B) → Fig. 18(C) → Fig. 18(D) → Fig. 19(A) → Fig. 19(D).

(Example of operation)
If the user performs the operations of selecting product A, selecting my container, and placing it in that order, and my container is not recognized, the weighing device 20 operates, for example, as follows, as will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

S100 (NO) → S101 (YES) → S102 → S103 → S104 → S200 (NO) → S201 (NO) → S202 (YES) → S203 → S204 → S205 → S300 (NO) → S301 (YES) → S302 → S303 → S310 (NO) → S311 (NO) → S320 (YES) → S321 → etc. omitted

In FIG. 19 (D), a message is displayed indicating that the container was not recognized and asking the user to place the container back on the machine (S321).

(Second screen transition example)
20 and 21 show a second example of screen transitions in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Fig. 20 and Fig. 21 show screens in several scenes when the operations are performed in the order of selection of product A → selection of store container → selection of container M → placement.

(Example of operation)
When the operations are performed in the order of selection of product A, selection of store container, selection of container M, and placement, the weighing device 20 operates, for example, as follows, as will be described with reference to the flowcharts of Figs. 11 to 17.

S100 (NO) → S101 (YES) → S102 → S103 → S104 → S200 (NO) → S201 (NO) → S202 (NO) → S211 (NO) → S230 (YES) → S231 → S232 → S23 3 → S250 (YES) → S251 → S252 → S253 → S254 → 300 (NO) → S301 (YES) → S302 → S303 → S310 (YES) → S400 (YES) → S410 → S420 → S430

Figures 20(A) to 20(C) are the same as Figures 18(A) to 18(C). Figure 20(D) shows a scene in which the store container button is touched. Figure 21(A) shows a scene after the store container button is touched. In Figure 21(A), a message is displayed to the effect that a store container will be used (S232), and a message is displayed to select the type of store container (S233). Figure 21(B) shows a scene in which the container M button is touched. Figure 21(C) shows a scene after the container M button is touched. In Figure 21(C), a message is displayed to the effect that a container M will be used (S252), the weight of the container (container M) is displayed (S253), and a message is displayed to place the container (S254). Figure 21(D) shows a scene after the net amount and selling price of the product to be weighed are calculated. In Figure 21(D), the weighing value is displayed (S303), and the net amount and selling price of the product to be weighed are displayed (S420).

(Third screen transition example)
22 and 23 show a third example of screen transitions in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Fig. 22 and Fig. 23 show screens in several scenes when the operations are performed in the order of selection of product A → selection of a store container → placement → selection of container M.

(Example of operation)
When the operations are performed in the order of selection of product A → selection of store container → placement → selection of container M, the weighing device 20 operates, for example, as follows, as will be described with reference to the flowcharts of Figs. 11 to 17.

S100 (NO) → S101 (YES) → S102 → S103 → S104 → S200 (NO) → S201 (NO) → S202 (NO) → S211 (NO) → S230 (YES) → S231 → S232 → S233 → S250 (NO) → 300 (N O) → S301 (YES) → S302 → S303 → S310 (NO) → S311 (NO) → S320 (NO) → S322 (YES) → S350 (YES) → S351 → S352 → S353 → S400 (YES) → S410 → S420 → S430

Figures 22 (A) to 23 (A) are similar to Figures 21 (A) to 22 (A). Figure 23 (B) shows the scene after a container M containing product A has been placed. In Figure 23 (B), the weighing value is displayed (S303). Figure 23 (C) shows the scene when the container M button is touched. Figure 23 (D) shows the scene after the net amount and selling price of the product to be weighed have been calculated. In Figure 23 (D), a message is displayed indicating that a container M will be used (S352), the weight of the container (container M) is displayed (S353), and the net amount and selling price of the product to be weighed are displayed (S420).

(Fourth screen transition example)
24 and 25 show a fourth example of screen transitions in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Fig. 24 and Fig. 25 show screens in several scenes when product A is selected and then placed, and the user's own container is recognized.

(Example of operation)
When the user selects and places product A in that order and recognizes his/her own container, the weighing device 20 operates, for example, as follows, as will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

S100 (NO) → S101 (YES) → S102 → S103 → S104 → S200 (NO) → S201 (NO) → S202 (NO) → S211 (NO) → S230 (NO) → 300 (NO) → S301 (YES) → S302 → S303 → S310 (NO) → S311 (YES) → S312 → S313 → S314 → S400 (YES) → S410 → S420 → S430

Figures 24 (A) to 24 (C) are similar to Figures 18 (A) to 18 (C). Figure 24 (D) shows the scene after my container containing product A has been placed. In Figure 24 (D), the weight value is displayed (S303), a message is displayed indicating that my container has been recognized (S312), and the weight of the container (corresponding my container) is displayed (S314). Figure 25 shows the scene after the net weight and selling price of the product to be weighed have been calculated. In Figure 25, the net weight and selling price of the product to be weighed are displayed (S420).

(Fifth screen transition example)
26 and 27 show a fifth example of screen transitions in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Fig. 26 and Fig. 27 show screens in several situations in which the operations are performed in the order of selection of product A → placement (without recognizing my container) → response that the store container has been placed.

(Example of operation)
When the operations are performed in the order of selection of product A → placement (without recognizing my container) → reply that the store container has been placed, the weighing device 20 operates, for example, as follows, as explained with reference to the flowcharts of Figures 11 to 17.

S100 (NO) → S101 (YES) → S102 → S103 → S104 → S200 (NO) → S201 (NO) → S202 (NO) → S211 (NO) → S230 (NO) → S300 (NO) → S301 (YES) → S302 → S303 → S31 0 (NO) → S311 (NO) → S320 (NO) → S322 (NO) → S323 → S330 (YES) → S331 → S332 → S333 → S350 (YES) → S351 → S352 → S353 → S400 (YES) → S410 → S420 → S430

Figures 26 (A) to 26 (C) are the same as Figures 18 (A) to 18 (C). Figure 26 (D) shows the scene after a container M containing product A is placed. In Figure 26 (D), the weighing value is displayed (S303), a message is displayed to the effect that the user's container was not recognized, and a message is displayed to confirm the placed container (S323). Figure 27 (A) shows the scene after the user has responded that the placed container is a store container. Figure 27 (B) shows the scene after the user has responded that the placed container is a store container. In Figure 27 (B), a message is displayed to the effect that a store container will be used (S332), and a message is displayed to select the type of store container (S333). Figure 27 (C) shows the scene when the container M button is touched. Figure 27 (D) shows the scene after the net amount and sales price of the product to be weighed are calculated. In FIG. 27 (D), a message is displayed indicating that container M will be used (S352), the weight of the container (container M) is displayed (S353), and the net sales price of the product to be weighed is displayed (S420).

(Sixth screen transition example)
28 and 29 show a sixth example of screen transitions in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Fig. 28 and Fig. 29 show screens in several situations in which the steps are performed in the order of selection of product A → placement (without recognizing my container) → reply that my container has been placed.

(Example of operation)
When the operations are performed in the order of selection of product A → placement (without recognizing my container) → reply that my container has been placed, the weighing device 20 operates, for example, as follows, as explained with reference to the flowcharts of Figures 11 to 17.

S100 (NO) → S101 (YES) → S102 → S103 → S104 → S200 (NO) → S201 (NO) → S202 (NO) → S211 (NO) → S230 (NO) → S300 (NO) → S301 (YES) → S302 → S303 → S310 (NO) → S311 (NO) → S320 (NO) → S322 (NO) → S323 → S330 (NO) → S340 (YES) → S341 → etc.

Figures 28(A) to 28(D) are similar to Figures 26(A) to 26(D). Figure 29(A) shows a scene in which it has been answered that the placed container is my container. Figure 29(B) shows a scene after it has been answered that the placed container is my container. In Figure 29(B), a message is displayed indicating that my container was not recognized and asking the user to place my container again (S341).

(Seventh screen transition example)
30 and 31 show a seventh example of screen transitions in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Fig. 30 and Fig. 31 show screens in several scenes when the user selects my container, selects product A, and places it on the container, and recognizes my container.

(Example of operation)
When the user performs the operations of selecting my container, selecting product A, and placing it in that order, and my container is recognized, the weighing device 20 operates, for example, as follows, as will be described with reference to the flowcharts of Figs. 11 to 17.

S100 (NO) → S101 (NO) → S200 (NO) → S201 (NO) → S202 (YES) → S203 → S204 → S205 → S300 (NO) → S301 (NO) → S400 (NO) → S100 (NO) → S101 (YES) → S102 → S1 03 → S104 → S200 (NO) → S201 (YES) → S300 (NO) → S301 (YES) → S302 → S303 → S310 (NO) → S311 (YES) → S312 → S313 → S314 → S400 (YES) → S410 → S420 → S430

Figure 30 (A) shows the state before the operation starts. Figure 30 (B) shows the scene when the My Container button is touched. Figure 30 (C) shows the scene after the My Container button is touched. In Figure 30 (C), a message is displayed to indicate that the My Container will be used (S204). Figure 30 (D) shows the scene when the product button for Product A is touched. Figure 31 (A) shows the scene after the product button for Product A is touched. In Figure 31 (A), the product name and unit price of Product A are displayed as the product to be weighed (S103). Figure 31 (B) shows the scene after the My Container containing Product A is placed. In Figure 31 (B), the weighing value is displayed (S303), a message is displayed indicating that the My Container has been recognized (S312), and the weight of the container (the My Container) is displayed (S314). Figure 31 (C) shows the scene after the net amount and sales price of the product to be weighed are calculated. In FIG. 31 (C), the net quantity and sales price of the product to be weighed are displayed (S420).

If the user performs the operations in the order of Select My Container → Select Product A → Place, and the My Container is not recognized, the screen transitions in the order of Fig. 30(A) → Fig. 30(B) → Fig. 30(C) → Fig. 30(D) → Fig. 31(A) → Fig. 31(D).

(Example of operation)
If the user performs the operations in the order of selection of my container, selection of product A, and placement, and my container is not recognized, the weighing device 20 operates, for example, as follows, as will be described with reference to the flowcharts of Figs. 11 to 17.

S100 (NO) → S101 (NO) → S200 (NO) → S201 (NO) → S202 (YES) → S203 → S204 → S205 → S300 (NO) → S301 (NO) → S400 (NO) → S100 (NO) → S101 (Y ES) → S102 → S103 → S104 → S200 (NO) → S201 (YES) → S300 (NO) → S301 (YES) → S302 → S303 → S310 (NO) → S311 (NO) → S320 (YES) → S321 → The following is omitted

In FIG. 31 (D), a message is displayed indicating that the container was not recognized and asking the user to place the container back on the machine (S321).

(Eighth screen transition example)
Figures 32 and 33 show an eighth example of screen transitions in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Figures 32 and 33 show screens in several situations when the user selects my container, places it, and selects product A, and recognizes my container.

(Example of operation)
When the user performs the operations of selecting my container, placing it, and selecting product A in that order, and my container is recognized, the weighing device 20 operates, for example, as follows, as will be described with reference to the flowcharts of Figs. 11 to 17.

S100 (NO) → S101 (NO) → S200 (NO) → S201 (NO) → S202 (YES) → S203 → S204 → S205 → S300 (NO) → S301 (YES) → S302 → S303 → S310 (NO) → S311 (Y ES) → S312 → S313 → S314 → S400 (NO) → S100 (NO) → S101 (YES) → S102 → S103 → S104 → S200 (YES) → S300 (YES) → S400 (YES) → S410 → S420 → S430

Figures 32(A) to 32(C) are similar to Figures 30(A) to 30(C). Figure 32(D) shows the scene after my container containing product A is placed. In Figure 32(D), the weighing value is displayed (S303), a message that my container has been recognized is displayed (S312), and the weight of the container (my container) is displayed (S314). Figure 33(A) shows the scene following Figure 32(D). Figure 33(B) shows the scene when the product button for product A is touched. Figure 33(C) shows the scene after the net amount and selling price of the product to be weighed are calculated. In Figure 33(C), the product name and unit price of product A as the product to be weighed are displayed (S103), and the net amount and selling price of the product to be weighed are displayed (S420).

If the user performs the operations in the order of Select My Container → Place My Container, and the container is not recognized, the screen will transition in the order of Fig. 32(A) → Fig. 32(B) → Fig. 32(C) → Fig. 32(D) → Fig. 33(A) → Fig. 33(D).

(Example of operation)
If the user performs the operations in the order of selection of my container, selection of product A, and placement, and my container is not recognized, the weighing device 20 operates, for example, as follows, as will be described with reference to the flowcharts of Figs. 11 to 17.

S100 (NO) → S101 (NO) → S200 (NO) → S201 (NO) → S202 (YES) → S203 → S204 → S205 → S300 (NO) → S301 (YES) → S302 → S303 → S310 (NO) → S311 (NO) → S320 (YES) → S321 → etc. omitted

In FIG. 33 (D), a message is displayed indicating that the container was not recognized and asking the user to place the container back on the device (S321).

(Ninth screen transition example)
34 and 35 show a ninth example of screen transitions in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Fig. 34 and Fig. 35 show screens in several scenes when the operations are performed in the order of selection of a store container → selection of container M → selection of product A → placement.

(Example of operation)
When the operations are performed in the order of selection of a store container, selection of container M, selection of product A, and placement, the weighing device 20 operates, for example, as follows, as will be described with reference to the flowcharts of Figs. 11 to 17.

S100 (NO) → S101 (NO) → S200 (NO) → S201 (NO) → S202 (NO) → S211 (NO) → S230 (Y ES) → S231 → S232 → S233 → S250 (YES) → S251 → S252 → S253 → S254 → S300 (NO) → S30 1 (NO) → S400 (NO) → S100 (NO) → S101 (YES) → S102 → S103 → S104 → S200 (YES) → S3 00 (NO) → S301 (YES) → S302 → S303 → S310 (YES) → S400 (YES) → S410 → S420 → S430

Figure 34 (A) shows the state before the operation starts. Figure 34 (B) shows the scene when the store container button is touched. Figure 34 (C) shows the scene after the store container button is touched. In Figure 34 (C), a message is displayed to the effect that a store container will be used (S232), and a message is displayed to select the type of store container (S233). Figure 34 (D) shows the scene when the container M button is touched. Figure 35 (A) shows the scene after the container M button is touched. In Figure 35 (A), a message is displayed to the effect that a container M will be used (S252), and the weight of the tare (container M) is displayed (S253). Figure 35 (B) shows the scene when the product button for product A is touched. Figure 35 (C) shows the scene after the product button for product A is touched. In Figure 35 (C), the product name and unit price of product A are displayed as the product to be weighed (S103), and a message is displayed to place the product (S104). FIG. 35(D) shows the scene after the net amount and selling price of the product to be weighed have been calculated. In FIG. 35(D), the weighing value is displayed (S303), and the net amount and selling price of the product to be weighed are displayed (S420).

(Tenth screen transition example)
Fig. 36 shows a tenth example of screen transitions in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Fig. 36 shows screens in several scenes when the operations are performed in the order of selection of a store container → selection of container M → placement → selection of product A.

(Example of operation)
When the operations are performed in the order of selection of a store container → selection of container M → placement → selection of product A, the weighing device 20 operates, for example, as follows, as will be described with reference to the flowcharts of Figs. 11 to 17.

S100 (NO) → S101 (NO) → S200 (NO) → S201 (NO) → S202 (NO) → S211 (NO) → S230 (YES) → S231 → S232 → S233 → S250 (YES) → S251 → S252 → S253 → S254 → S300 (NO) → S301 (YES) → S302 → S303 → S310 (YES) → S400 (NO) → S100 (NO) → S101 (YES) → S102 → S103 → S104 → S200 (YES) → S300 (YES) → S400 (YES) → S410 → S420 → S430

In the tenth screen transition example, scenes corresponding to Fig. 34(A) to Fig. 34(D) in the tenth screen transition example are omitted. Fig. 36(A) is the same as Fig. 35(A). Fig. 36(B) shows the scene after a container M containing product A is placed. In Fig. 36(B), the weighing value is displayed (S303). Fig. 36(C) shows the scene when the product button for product A is touched. Fig. 36(D) shows the scene after the net quantity and selling price of the product to be weighed have been calculated. In Fig. 36(D), the product name and unit price of product A are displayed as the product to be weighed (S103), and the net quantity and selling price of the product to be weighed are displayed (S420).

(Eleventh screen transition example)
37 and 38 show an eleventh example of screen transitions in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Fig. 37 and Fig. 38 show screens in several scenes when the operations are performed in the order of selection of a store container → placement → selection of container M → selection of product A.

(Example of operation)
When the operations are performed in the order of selection of a store container, placement, selection of container M, and selection of product A, the weighing device 20 operates, for example, as follows, as will be described with reference to the flowcharts of Figs.

S100 (NO) → S101 (NO) → S200 (NO) → S201 (NO) → S202 (NO) → S211 (NO) → S230 (YES) → S2 31 → S232 → S233 → S250 (NO) → S300 (NO) → S301 (YES) → S302 → S303 → S310 (NO) → S311 (NO ) → S320 (NO) → S322 (YES) → S350 (YES) → S351 → S352 → S353 → S400 (NO) → S100 (NO) → S1 01 (YES) → S102 → S103 → S104 → S200 (YES) → S300 (YES) → S400 (YES) → S410 → S420 → S430

Figures 37(A) to 37(C) are the same as Figures 34(A) to 34(C). Figure 37(D) shows the scene after a container M containing product A is placed. In Figure 37(D), the weighing value is displayed (S303). Figure 38(A) shows the scene after the container M button is touched. Figure 38(B) shows the scene after the container M button is touched. In Figure 35(B), a message is displayed indicating that a container M will be used (S352), and the weight of the container (container M) is displayed (S353). Figure 38(C) shows the scene after the product button for product A is touched. Figure 38(D) shows the scene after the net amount and selling price of the product to be weighed are calculated. In Figure 38(D), the product name and unit price of product A are displayed as the product to be weighed (S103), and the net amount and selling price of the product to be weighed are displayed (S420).

(Twelfth screen transition example)
Figures 39 and 40 show a twelfth example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Figures 39 and 40 show screens in several scenes when the operations are performed in the order of placing (recognizing my container) → selecting product A.

(Example of operation)
When the operations are performed in the order of placing (recognizing my container) and selecting product A, the weighing device 20 operates, for example, as follows, as will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

S100 (NO) → S101 (NO) → S200 (NO) → S201 (NO) → S202 (NO) → S211 (NO) → S230 (NO) → S300 (NO) → S301 (YES) → S302 → S303 → S310 (NO) → S311 ( YES) → S312 → S313 → S314 → S400 (NO) → S100 (NO) → S101 (YES) → S102 → S103 → S104 → S200 (YES) → S300 (YES) → S400 (YES) → S410 → S420 → Figure 430

Fig. 39(A) shows the state before the operation starts. Fig. 39(B) shows the scene after my container containing product A has been placed. In Fig. 39(B), the weighing value is displayed (S303), a message is displayed indicating that my container has been recognized (S312), and the weight of the container (corresponding my container) is displayed (S314). Fig. 39(C) shows the scene following Fig. 39(B). Fig. 39(D) shows the scene when the product button for product A is touched. Fig. 40 shows the scene after the net amount and selling price of the product to be weighed have been calculated. In Fig. 40, the product name and unit price of product A as the product to be weighed are displayed (S103), and the net amount and selling price of the product to be weighed are displayed (S420).

(Thirteenth screen transition example)
41 and 42 show a 14th example of screen transitions in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Fig. 41 and Fig. 42 show screens in several situations when the following operations are performed in the order of placement (my container not recognized) → response to the effect that a store container has been placed → selection of a store container → selection of container M → selection of product A.

(Example of operation)
When the operations are performed in the order of placement (my container not recognized) → reply that the store container has been placed → selection of the store container → selection of container M → selection of product A, the weighing device 20 operates, for example, as follows, as explained using the flowcharts of Figures 11 to 17.

S100 (NO) → S101 (NO) → S200 (NO) → S201 (NO) → S202 (NO) → S211 (NO) → S230 (NO) → S300 (NO) → S301 (YES) → S302 → S303 → S310 (NO) → S311 (NO) → S320 (NO) → S322 (NO) → S323 → S3 30 (YES) → S331 → S332 → S333 → S350 (YES) → S351 → S352 → S353 → S400 (NO) → S100 (NO) → S 101 (YES) → S102 → S103 → S104 → S200 (YES) → S300 (YES) → S400 (YES) → S410 → S420 → S430

Figure 41 (A) shows the state before the operation is started. Figure 41 (B) shows the state after the container M containing the product A is placed. In Figure 41 (B), the weighing value is displayed (S303), a message is displayed indicating that the my container was not recognized, and a message is displayed to confirm the placed container (S323). Figure 41 (C) shows the state after the container is responded to as a store container. Figure 41 (D) shows the state after the container is responded to as a store container. In Figure 41 (D), a message is displayed indicating that a store container will be used (S332), and a message is displayed to select the type of store container (S333). Figure 42 (A) shows the state when the container M button is touched. Figure 42 (B) shows the state after the container M button is touched. In Figure 42 (B), a message is displayed indicating that a container M will be used (S352), and the weight of the container (container M) is displayed (S353). Figure 42 (C) shows the state when the product button for product A is touched. FIG. 42 (D) shows the scene after the net quantity and sales price of the product to be weighed have been calculated. In FIG. 42 (D), the product name and unit price of product A are displayed as the product to be weighed (S103), and the net quantity and sales price of the product to be weighed are displayed (S420).

(14th screen transition example)
Fig. 43 shows a fourteenth example of a screen transition in the weighing device 20. Specifically, Fig. 43 shows screens in several scenes when the operations are performed in the order of placing (my container not recognized) → replying that my container has been placed.

(Example of operation)
When the operations are performed in the order of placing (my container not recognized) → replying that my container has been placed, the weighing device 20 operates, for example, as follows, as explained with reference to the flowcharts of Figs. 11 to 17.

S100 (NO) → S101 (NO) → S200 (NO) → S201 (NO) → S202 (NO) → S211 (NO) → S230 (NO) → S300 (NO) → S301 (YES) → S302 → S303 → S310 (NO) → S311 (NO) → S320 (NO) → S322 (NO) → S323 → S330 (NO) → S340 (YES) → S341 → etc.

Figure 43 (A) shows the state before the operation begins. Figure 43 (B) shows the state after my container containing product A has been placed. In Figure 43 (B), the weight value is displayed (S303), and a message is displayed to the effect that my container was not recognized and to confirm the placed container (S323). Figure 43 (C) shows the state when it is answered that the placed container is my container. Figure 43 (D) shows the state after it is answered that the placed container is my container. In Figure 43 (D), a message is displayed to the effect that my container was not recognized and to ask the user to place my container again (S341).

Additional information regarding the timing at which the weighing device 20 reads the wireless tag. The timing at which the weighing device 20 reads the wireless tag may be, for example, while the weighing value is fluctuating (before it becomes stable) or after the weighing value has stabilized (for example, immediately after it becomes stable). It may also be after it is recognized that the container has been placed using a technology other than weighing, such as image recognition. Note that the timing at which the wireless tag is read and the timing at which it is determined whether the my container has been recognized (step S311 in FIG. 16) do not necessarily have to be the same. In other words, instead of determining whether the my container has been recognized immediately after reading the wireless tag, one or more other processes may be performed after reading the wireless tag, and it may be determined whether the my container has been recognized after the other one or more processes have been performed. In other words, instead of reading the wireless tag only when it is time to determine whether the my container has been recognized, the wireless tag may be read before determining whether the my container has been recognized.

The wireless tag may be read when one or both of the following conditions are met: the product is specified and the container (my container) is selected. Note that in the example flowcharts of Figs. 11 to 17, even if neither of the above conditions are met, it is possible to determine whether the container is my container (i.e., the wireless tag can be read) (Fig. 39, etc.).

The wireless tag reader 29 may continuously transmit radio waves to simplify control. When continuously transmitting radio waves, the wireless tag reading operation may be turned OFF before the above-mentioned condition relating to the timing of reading the wireless tag is met, and turned ON after the above-mentioned condition is met. This makes it possible to prevent unnecessary information (information from the wireless tags of other my containers in the vicinity) from being erroneously acquired, even if the wireless tag reader 29 continuously transmits radio waves.

The above describes the embodiments, but the above embodiments are merely examples and the specific configurations are not limited to the above embodiments, and include designs that do not deviate from the gist of the invention.

For example, in the above example, a transition to another screen and a store container type button are displayed after operating the store container button is described, but the store container type button may be displayed on that screen (the same screen without transitioning to another screen) after operating the store container button. Also, the store container type button may be displayed without displaying the store container button. In other words, for example, the my container button, store container (container S) button, store container (container M) button, and store container (container L) button may be displayed selectably on the same screen.

In the above, an example has been described in which the weighing device 20 calculates and displays the net amount after all three steps of identifying the product, obtaining the container weight, and obtaining the measurement value have been completed, regardless of the order in which these steps are performed (steps S400, S410, and S420 in FIG. 11). However, even before the product is identified, if both the steps of obtaining the container weight and obtaining the measurement value have been completed, the net amount of the product before it is identified may be calculated and displayed. For example, the net amount may be displayed in FIG. 32 (D), FIG. 36 (B), etc.

In the above, the weighing device 20 is described as communicating with the wireless tag (reading and writing information), but another device different from the weighing device 20 may communicate with the wireless tag, and the weighing device 20 may communicate with the wireless tag via the other device. In other words, the weighing device 20 is described as having a wireless tag reader/writer 29 (an integrated configuration in which a weighing device with a weighing function also has a wireless tag reading function), but the weighing device may be configured with a weighing device that does not have a wireless tag reader/writer 29 and another device that has a wireless tag reader/writer 29 (a configuration consisting of a weighing device with a weighing function and another device that also has a wireless tag reading function, which are separate entities). In other words, for example, the weighing system may be configured with an operation display unit, a weighing unit, and a wireless tag reader/writer (a weighing system in which each function of the weighing device 20 (FIG. 3) is realized by multiple devices).

In addition, as explained above, the weighing device 20 used when registering my container and the weighing device 20 used when purchasing a product may be the same weighing device 20 or different weighing devices 20, but it is not necessary to use a weighing device 20 when registering my container. For example, the device for registering my container may be one that has at least a weighing function, a wireless tag reading function, and an output function that outputs a message indicating that writing of the tare weight has been completed.

In the above description, the weighing device 20 printed and issued the label (Figure 9), but the device that prints and issues the label may be a separate device.

In the above, an example in which weight information is written on the RFID label has been described, but the information written on the RFID label is not limited to weight information. For example, in addition to weight information, the registration date (registration date and time) and the expiration date of registration (for example, one year from the time of registration) may be written. When the registered contents are confirmed (described later), the confirmation date (confirmation date and time) may be written. Information on the registered device (identification information that can identify the registered device) and information on the registered store (identification information that can identify the registered store, etc.) may be written. Information on the characteristics of my container (material, shape, color, etc.) may be written. Information on the characteristics of my container may be obtained, for example, by displaying a screen with a selection field (options) when registering my container and having the registrant (store clerk, customer) select from the options. In addition, when registering my container, a serial number, for example, may be written as a management number. The serial number may be associated with customer information (membership number). In addition, the membership number may be written as a management number.

In addition, in the above, the processes related to my containers executed by the weighing device 20 have been described as the process of registering an unregistered my container (see Figures 7 and 9) and the process of purchasing a product using a registered my container (see Figures 8, 11 to 17, etc.), but the processes related to my containers executed by the weighing device 20 are not limited to the above two processes. For example, the weighing device 20 may execute a process to check the registration details of a registered my container. The following is an overview of the process to check the registration details of a registered my container.

(Outline of the process for checking the registered details of my container)
(1) The weighing device 20 weighs a registered my container (without any product inside) placed on the platform, and reads the weight information of the my container from the RFID label of the my container.
(2) The weighing device 20 compares the weighing value (i.e., the current weight of the container) with the weight information read from the RFID label (i.e., the past weight of the container (at the time of registration)). Note that the two (weighing value, weight information read from the RFID label) should basically match, but if the container is damaged or altered, or if some kind of fraud has occurred (for example, fraud such as intentionally making the container heavier when registering it, or replacing the RFID label with that of another container), the two will no longer match.
(3) The weighing device 20 outputs the comparison result between the two. For example, if the two match (or if the difference between the two is within a predetermined allowable error range), the weighing device 20 displays that the registered content (weight information read from the RFID label) is normal. If the two do not match (or if the difference between the two is outside a predetermined allowable error range), the weighing device 20 displays that the registered content is abnormal. Furthermore, if the two do not match, the weighing device 20 may rewrite the registered content to a weighing value, for example, based on an operation.

As described above, in the case where information regarding the date and time (registration date, registration expiration date, confirmation date) is written to the RFID label, the weighing device 20 may display a message to execute a process to confirm the registration details of the user's container based on the information regarding the date and time.

As mentioned above, the weighing device 20 may output some or all of the information written on the RFID label at the time of registration, or may output information based on the information written on the RFID label. As an example, when the weighing device 20 recognizes my container, it may display the management number in the tare weight display field 1202, or may issue a label with the management number printed on it. Also, as mentioned above, when the weighing device 20 recognizes my container, it may display a message to execute a process to confirm the registration details of my container based on information related to the date and time of the registration expiration date, or may issue a label with the message printed on it.

(Writing onto wireless tags at the time of sale)
In the above, information is read from the RFID label (more specifically, the wireless tag) when purchasing a product using a personal container, but information is not written to the RFID label. In other words, information is written to the RFID label when registering a personal container, but information is not written to the RFID label when purchasing a product using a personal container. However, information may be written to the RFID label when purchasing a product using a personal container.

For example, when purchasing a product using a personal container, the sales price may be written on the RFID label. If the RFID label can be read by at least a device capable of executing the registration process (not shown), the weighing device 20 can write the sales price on the RFID label, and the sales price can be obtained via the RFID label by at least a device capable of executing the registration process, making it possible to register the product (and settle the account after registration) without printing or issuing a label (Figure 9) in the weighing device 20. The weighing device 20 may also write the product name, information that can identify the product, the unit price of the product, the net quantity, etc.

The weighing device 20 may also write information such as the number of uses and the amount used, which constitutes the purchase history, to the RFID label. In other words, each time a personal container is used, purchase information for that personal container is stored, and the personal container itself may manage (retain) the purchase history of purchases made using that personal container. Flexible (gradual) discounts can be implemented according to the purchase history. The purchase history may also be stored outside the personal container (for example, the weighing device 20, a management device (not shown), a cloud server, etc.) in association with the management number (serial number, membership number).

(Product button display)
In addition, although the above describes an example in which the weighing device 20 displays product buttons without any particular restrictions, the weighing device 20 may display product buttons for products that are likely to be operated (designated) (i.e., products that customers have taken out into containers (my containers, store containers) in the display area (products that can be considered to have been taken out into containers)) and not display product buttons for products other than those that are likely to be operated. This makes it easier to designate products.

For example, the weighing device 20 may be configured to be able to detect the removal of a product from each display container (e.g., display containers 300, 400), and when a removal of a product from a display container is detected, the weighing device 20 may be notified that the removal of the product has occurred. Specifically, a small device equipped with a sensor unit capable of detecting the movement of the device itself (tilt, rotation, etc.) and a communication unit capable of outputting information to the outside (e.g., weighing device 20) may be installed on the top cover 310 of the display container 300, and when the top cover 310 of a display container 300 is lifted, the weighing device 20 may display a button corresponding to the product in the display container 300 as a button for the product that has been removed. Similarly, the small device may be installed on the push-down portion 410 of the display container 400, and when the push-down portion 410 of a display container 400 is pressed down, the weighing device 20 may display a button corresponding to the product in the display container 400 as a button for the product that has been removed.

The weighing device 20 receives a notification for each product removal action. When a certain product is notified multiple times, the weighing device 20 displays the product button for that product the number of times notified (the display of the product button for one notification disappears with one operation). For example, when product A is notified three times in succession (when product A is removed three times in succession), the weighing device 20 stores three times as the number of times the product button for product A is displayed, and does not erase the product button for product A after the first or second operation of the product button for product A, but erases the product button for product A after the third operation. This makes it possible to continue displaying the product button for that product for the number of customers even if multiple customers remove a certain product within a relatively short period of time. When the interval between removal actions for a certain product is short (for example, when a removal action is detected again within a predetermined time), it may be determined that the removal action for that product is a single removal action for that product.

In addition to the above-mentioned method, for example, an electronic product tag (a product tag having a detection function for detecting vibrations and a communication function for the weighing device 20) may be placed near each product, and when the product tag touches a product tag near a certain product as a purchase declaration for that product, the weighing device 20 may be notified that a purchase declaration has been made for that product.

Note that product buttons for products other than those likely to be operated are also displayed, but the product buttons for products more likely to be operated may be displayed in priority over the product buttons for products other than those likely to be operated (displayed in a position that is easy to operate, displayed large, displayed in a conspicuous color, etc.).

In the above, an RFID label (label 80 with a wireless tag 81 attached) is attached to a personal container, and then the personal container with the RFID label attached is weighed and the weight value is written on the RFID label (Figure 7). However, the procedure for producing a personal container with an RFID label with a weight value written on it (registered personal container) is not limited to this. For example, an RFID label with the weight value written on it may be issued and then affixed to the personal container.

(Configuration 1) For example, a label issuing device equipped with a wireless tag reader and an RFID label issuing device that prints and issues RFID labels is prepared separately from the weighing device 20 (the weighing device 20 and the label issuing device can communicate). The weighing device 20 weighs the container and outputs (transmits) the weighing value to the label issuing device. The label issuing device stores, for example, a roll of RFID labels inside, and writes the weighing value input (received) from the weighing device 20 to one RFID label (the first RFID label). The label issuing device cuts the RFID label with the weighing value written on it, for example, using an auto-cut function, and issues it (it may be cut at the perforation after printing). In addition to writing the tare weight information (weighing value) to the wireless tag 81, the label issuing device may print the tare weight information on the RFID label and issue it. The RFID label issued as described above is then affixed to the container weighed by the weighing device 20.

(Configuration 2) The weighing device 20 may be equipped with an RFID label issuing unit. In other words, in the configuration of (Configuration 1) above, the weighing device 20 and the label issuing device exist as separate entities, but they may also be integrated. The weighing device 20 may be equipped with an RFID label issuing unit in addition to the printing unit 28, or the printing unit 28 may also have the function of an RFID label issuing unit. The printing unit 28 may also have the function of a wireless tag reading unit. The weighing device 20 may be equipped with separate wireless tag reading units for registering my containers and for purchasing products, or may be equipped with a single wireless tag reading unit used for both.

The information to be written and printed can be set appropriately using format settings, etc. Specifically, there are various usage methods, such as writing the tare weight, registration date, store name, etc. to the wireless tag 81 and printing only the tare weight and store name on the label 80 (common to configurations 1 and 2).

In the above, as shown in FIG. 1, a sales mode in which the customer himself places the desired product in a container in the display area is exemplified, but a sales mode in which the store clerk places the product in the container may also be used. For example, the store clerk may place the product (prepared food, etc.) displayed in the showcase in response to a customer's order into the customer's own container.

The embodiments will be summarized below.
[Technical field]
The present invention relates to a weighing device, a method for managing tare weight, and a method for calculating selling price.
[Background Art]
For example, a system is known that sells products by weighing them (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
[Prior Art Literature]
[Patent Documents]
[Patent Document 1] Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 6-50740 [Summary of the Invention]
[Problem to be solved by the invention]
However, there is room for improvement in the sale of products that are sold by weighing. The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a technology for improving the sale of products that are sold by weighing.
[Means for solving the problems]
(1) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention is a weighing device comprising: a weighing means for measuring a tare mass, which is the mass (weight) of a container (e.g., unregistered my container 71 in FIG. 7); a writing means (e.g., the means of step S12 in FIG. 10) for writing the tare mass measured by the weighing means to a non-contact ID medium (e.g., wireless tag 81) attached to a label (e.g., label 80 in FIG. 7); and an output means (e.g., the means of step S13 in FIG. 10) for outputting a signal that writing of the tare mass by the writing means has been completed.
The weighing device of (1) above improves sales of merchandise that is sold by weighing.
Recently, environmental issues have become a hot topic, and reuse has been attracting attention. In the case of sales by weight, sales using containers (my containers) prepared by the customer themselves are also increasing. Since the containers prepared by customers are diverse, subtracting the tare weight of the containers prepared by the customer becomes a problem. According to the weighing device of (1) above, for example, the weight (tare weight) of the container prepared by the customer can be written on a non-contact ID medium. Therefore, when selling by weight, if the tare weight written on the non-contact ID medium can be read, the tare weight can be subtracted suitably (for example, simply and accurately). In addition, a message is output indicating that the writing of the tare weight has been completed, so that the user can feel at ease.
(2) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a weighing device comprising a weighing means for measuring a tare mass, which is the mass of a container, a writing means for writing the tare mass measured by the weighing means onto a non-contact ID medium attached to a label, and an issuing means for issuing a label to which a non-contact ID medium onto which the tare mass has been written by the writing means is attached, wherein writing onto the non-contact ID medium is performed during the process of issuing the label by the issuing means.
The weighing device described above in (2) improves sales of products that are weighed before being sold. In addition, the weighing device described above in (2) writes information onto the non-contact ID medium during the label issuing process, making the process easy to understand and streamlined.
(3) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a weighing device comprising a weighing means for weighing the mass of a container including contents, a reading means for reading a tare mass, which is the mass of the container, from a non-contact ID medium attached to a label, an operation receiving means for receiving operations, and a calculation means for calculating the mass of the contents in the container, wherein, when the tare mass is read by the reading means, the calculation means calculates the mass of the contents based on the mass of the container including the contents weighed by the weighing means and the tare mass read by the reading means, and when the tare mass is not read by the reading means, the calculation means calculates the mass of the contents based on the mass of the container including the contents weighed by the weighing means and the tare mass determined by the operation received by the operation receiving means.
The weighing device of (3) above improves sales of products that are sold by weighing. For example, when the container weight is read, the weight of the contents is automatically calculated, which is efficient and easy to understand even in a self-service weighing system. Even if the container weight cannot be read, the weight of the contents can be calculated by operation.
(4) The weighing device described in (3) above is characterized in that the operation receiving means is capable of receiving an operation to select one of multiple types of containers (e.g., container S, container M, container L) having different tare masses, and the calculation means, when the tare mass is not read by the reading means, calculates the mass of the contents based on the mass of the container containing the contents weighed by the weighing means and the tare mass of the container selected by the operation received by the operation receiving means.
The weighing device of (4) above improves sales of products that are sold by weighing.
(5) A weighing device as described in (3) above, further comprising a tare weight determination means for determining a predetermined ratio of the mass of the container containing the contents weighed by the weighing means as a tare mass, and when the tare mass is not read by the reading means, the calculation means calculates the mass of the contents based on the mass of the container containing the contents weighed by the weighing means and the tare mass determined by the tare weight determination means.
The weighing device of (5) above improves sales of products that are sold by weighing.
(6) The weighing device according to any one of (3) to (5) above, wherein the reading means reads the tare weight on condition that a container is placed on the placement portion.
The weighing device of (6) above improves sales of products that are weighed before being sold. For example, since the weighing device reads the container placed on the device, misidentification can be prevented.
(7) The weighing device according to any one of (3) to (5) above, wherein the reading means reads the container weight on condition that the product is identified.
The weighing device of (7) above improves sales of products that are weighed before being sold. For example, since the weighing is performed after the customer confirms their intention to weigh, misconceptions can be prevented. In addition, since the weighing device conforms to an intuitive order, misconceptions such as mistaking a container for a different product can be prevented.
(8) The weighing device described in any of (3) to (5) above, characterized in that the operation receiving means is capable of receiving an operation to select whether or not the container is one whose tare weight can be read by the reading means, and the reading means reads the tare weight on the condition that the operation receiving means has received an operation to select whether or not the container is one whose tare weight can be read.
According to the weighing device of (8) above, sales of products that are weighed before being sold can be improved. For example, since the weighing is performed after confirming the intention of the customer to weigh the product, misconception can be prevented.
(9) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a method for managing tare weight, which is the mass of a container, using a weighing device, comprising: a weighing step for weighing the tare weight of a reusable container; a writing step for writing the tare weight measured in the weighing step to a non-contact ID medium attached to a label; and an output step for outputting a signal indicating that writing of the tare weight by the writing step has been completed.
According to the above management method (9), sales of products sold by weight are improved.
(10) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a method for managing tare weight, which is the mass of a container, using a weighing device, comprising: a weighing step for weighing the tare weight of a reusable container; a writing step for writing the tare weight measured in the weighing step onto a non-contact ID medium attached to a label; and an issuing step for issuing a label to which is attached a non-contact ID medium onto which the tare weight is written by the writing step.
According to the management method (10) above, sales of products sold by weight are improved.
(11) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a selling price calculation method using a weighing device, comprising: a first weighing step of weighing a tare weight, which is the mass of a container; a recording step of recording the tare weight weighed in the first weighing step on a non-contact ID medium; a second weighing step of weighing the mass of the container after a product has been inserted; a reading step of reading the tare weight of the container from the non-contact ID medium attached to the container when the mass of the container after the product has been inserted has been measured; a calculation step of calculating the selling price of the product from the mass of the container after the product has been inserted, weighed in the second weighing step, and the tare weight read in the reading step; and an issuing step of issuing a label on which the selling price is printed.
According to the selling price calculation method (11) above, sales of products that are sold by weight are improved.

The program for implementing the weighing device 20 described above may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program may be read into a computer system for execution. The term "computer system" as used herein includes hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices. The term "computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, optical magnetic disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, and storage devices such as hard disks built into a computer system. The term "computer-readable recording medium" also includes storage devices that hold a program for a certain period of time, such as volatile memory (RAM) inside a computer system that becomes a server or client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. The program may be transmitted from a computer system that stores the program in a storage device to another computer system via a transmission medium or by a transmission wave in the transmission medium. The "transmission medium" that transmits the program refers to a medium that has a function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet or a communication line (communication line) such as a telephone line. The program may also be for implementing part of the above-mentioned functions. Furthermore, the above-mentioned functions may be realized in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system, i.e., a differential file (differential program).

20...Measuring device 21...CPU
22...ROM
23...RAM
24...scanner section 25...weighing section 26...touch display 27...audio output section 28...printing section 29...wireless tag reading section 300...display container 310...upper lid section 400...display container 410...pressing section

The present invention relates to a weighing device and a program .

Claims (8)

A weighing device used to measure a commodity sold by weight that can use two types of containers as a container for purchase,
A measuring means;
An operation receiving means for receiving an operation;
A tare weight acquisition means for acquiring a tare weight, which is the mass of the container;
a calculation means for calculating a mass of the product in the container based on the container mass acquired by the container mass acquisition means and the mass of the container containing the product weighed by the weighing means,
The operation receiving means includes:
The device is capable of accepting an operation of selecting either a first type of container or a second type of container as the type of container to be used, and, when an operation of selecting a second type of container is accepted, an operation of selecting one second type of container from among a plurality of second type containers;
The container weight acquisition means includes:
When the operation receiving means receives an operation to select a first type of container, the tare weight of the first type of container is obtained by reading the tare weight of the container from a non-contact ID medium attached to the first type of container;
A weighing device characterized in that when an operation to select a second type of container is received by the operation receiving means, the weighing device further receives an operation to select one second type of container from a plurality of second type containers, thereby obtaining the tare mass of the second type of container. The first type of container is a container having a label with the non-contact ID medium attached thereto,
2. The weighing device according to claim 1, wherein the second type of container is a container that does not have a label attached thereto. The second type of container is a container whose tare mass is stored in the memory unit,
3. The weighing device according to claim 1, wherein the first type of container is a container whose tare mass is not stored in the memory unit. The first type of container is a container brought by the customer,
4. The weighing device according to claim 1, wherein the second type of container is a container sold by a store. A selling price calculation means for calculating a selling price is provided,
The selling price calculation means
The weighing device according to claim 1, characterized in that when the operation receiving means receives an operation to select a first type of container, the selling price is calculated based on the mass of the product in the container calculated by the calculation means and the unit price of the product. A selling price calculation means for calculating a selling price is provided,
The selling price calculation means
The weighing device described in claim 1, characterized in that when the operation receiving means receives an operation to select a second type of container and an operation to select one second type of container from a plurality of second types of containers, the selling price is calculated based on the mass of the product in the container calculated by the calculation means, the unit price of the product, and the unit price of the one second type of container selected by the operation receiving means. A method for selling merchandise sold by weight using a weighing device used for measuring merchandise sold by weight that can use two types of containers as purchase containers, comprising:
A weighing step;
an operation receiving step of receiving an operation;
A tare weight acquisition step of acquiring a tare weight, which is the mass of the container;
a calculation step of calculating a mass of the product in the container based on the container mass acquired in the container mass acquisition step and the mass of the container containing the product weighed in the weighing step,
The operation receiving step includes:
The method includes a step of receiving an operation to select either a first type of container or a second type of container as the type of container to be used, and a step of receiving an operation to select one second type of container from among a plurality of second type containers when the operation to select the second type of container is received,
The tare weight acquisition step includes:
When an operation to select a first type of container is received in the operation receiving step, the tare weight of the first type of container is obtained by reading the tare weight of the container from a non-contact ID medium attached to the first type of container;
A sales method characterized in that when an operation to select a second type of container is received in the operation receiving step, the tare mass of the second type of container is obtained by further receiving an operation to select one second type of container from a plurality of second type containers in the operation receiving step. A program that causes a computer to function as a weighing device used to measure a commodity sold by weight that can use two types of containers as containers for purchase, comprising:
The computer,
Measuring means,
An operation receiving means for receiving an operation;
a tare weight acquisition means for acquiring a tare weight, which is the mass of the container;
a container weight acquisition means for acquiring a container weight of a product contained in the container based on the container weight acquired by the container weight acquisition means and the container weight of the product contained in the container weighed by the weighing means;
The operation receiving means includes:
The device is capable of accepting an operation of selecting either a first type of container or a second type of container as the type of container to be used, and, when an operation of selecting a second type of container is accepted, an operation of selecting one second type of container from among a plurality of second type containers;
The container weight acquisition means includes:
When the operation receiving means receives an operation to select a first type of container, the tare weight of the first type of container is obtained by reading the tare weight of the container from a non-contact ID medium attached to the first type of container;
A program characterized in that when an operation to select a second type of container is received by the operation receiving means, the program further receives an operation to select one second type of container from a plurality of second type containers by the operation receiving means, thereby obtaining the tare mass of the second type of container.

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