JP7121151B2 - Store equipment and systems for serving food - Google Patents

Description

The present application relates to store devices and systems for serving food products.

BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, various systems and the like for providing food are known (see Patent Documents 1 to 4, for example). US Pat. No. 5,300,000 discloses a system for serving beverages, for example in restaurants. In this system, a point of sale device and a remote beverage dispenser capable of communicating with the point of sale device are located within the restaurant. In this system, an order is taken at a point of sale device and the ordered beverage is dispensed at a remote beverage dispenser.

US Pat. No. 5,300,000 discloses a method for serving beverages, for example in restaurants. In this method, an order is received at an order entry system and an indication including an order identification is printed on the container at a beverage container printing machine. Then, for example, the container is passed from the employee to the customer, and at the beverage dispensing station, the label on the container is read and the beverage is dispensed into the container.

US Pat. No. 5,300,009 discloses an apparatus for serving beverages in a self-service environment. In this device, the user purchases a beverage container. The beverage container is provided with a bar code in advance. The user scans the bar code on the beverage container at the beverage dispenser. At the beverage dispenser, the usage record (previous beverage dispensing event) associated with the barcode is identified. Based on the identified usage record, whether the barcode is valid (e.g., whether a certain amount of time has passed, whether a predetermined volume of beverage has been dispensed, or whether a certain number of refills has been dispensed). whether an injection event has occurred) is determined. And, if the barcode is valid, the beverage dispenser receives a beverage selection from the user.

US Pat. No. 5,301,000 discloses a system for dispensing mixed products from a product dispenser. The system allows a consumer to select, for example, a first product recipe for one product and a second product recipe for another product to combine into a mixed recipe. The product dispenser then dispenses the mixing recipe.

Japanese Patent Publication No. 2015-527666 JP 2015-107836 A Japanese translation of PCT publication No. 2017-518550 Japanese Patent Publication No. 2015-520079

Consumers of food products may, for example, take the purchased food products home without consuming them at the store. In this case, it is desirable to be able to provide the food in a portable form. It is also desirable to be able to present the food in a way that the consumer can unmistakably recognize his container. This prevents a consumer from accidentally taking home another consumer's container.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a store apparatus and system that allows food to be served in a form that is suitable for portability and that allows consumers to reliably recognize their containers.

One aspect of the present disclosure is a store device provided in a store for providing food, comprising: a processing unit that receives an order from a consumer; a storage device that inputs order information; an identification information attachment mechanism for attaching visible order identification information that can be made to a container into which food is supplied, wherein the identification information attachment mechanism prints a label on which the order identification information is indicated by an output device; , labeling the container, the order identification information is output from the output device based on the order information stored in the storage device, and is attached to the container by the output of the output device. The image including the identification information attachment mechanism and the label can be stored in a storage device, and the image including the label and the image including the label of the past order stored in the storage device are sent to the store. and an image display mechanism for displaying on the installed display.

Further, one aspect of the present disclosure is a system for accepting orders from consumers to provide food, comprising: a processing unit for accepting orders from consumers; and a storage device for storing information on orders from consumers. and an output device that outputs visible order identification information that can identify the order based on the order information stored in the storage device, wherein the order identification information is attached to the container to which the food is supplied. and an output device.

Furthermore, one aspect of the present disclosure is a system for accepting orders from consumers for providing food, comprising: a processing unit for accepting orders from consumers; and a storage device for storing information on orders from consumers. and a printing machine for printing a label with visible order identification information capable of identifying the order based on the order information stored in the storage device, the label being supplied with food. The system includes a printing press to be affixed to the container, and a display installed in the store where the container is picked up by the consumer, the display displaying an image including the label.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a store apparatus and system that allows food to be served in a form that is suitable for portability and that allows consumers to unmistakably recognize their containers.

1 illustrates an example concept of a system according to an embodiment; FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the store which provided the store apparatus. 2 is a schematic block diagram of the system according to FIG. 1; FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image sent back to an external device; Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a dispenser; It is a flow chart of provision of foodstuffs using a store device and a system concerning an embodiment. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image displayed on a digital signage for notifying that food is ready; FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an example of an image displayed on a digital signage for displaying historical containers stored in storage; FIG. Fig. 4 is a flow chart showing the steps performed by the store device;

Hereinafter, a store device and system for providing food according to embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Similar or corresponding elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and overlapping descriptions are omitted.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary concept of a system according to an embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1, in system 100, consumer C externally (e.g., while commuting, attending school, moving, going out, or at home) using an external device 10 as an ordering unit , Food can be pre-ordered for 50. At the store 50, food is prepared based on the order, and a container B containing the prepared food is prepared.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a store. Referring to FIG. 2, in this embodiment, employee E prepares food using dispenser 2 based on an order. In other embodiments, dispenser 2 may automatically prepare food products based on orders. In still another embodiment, the employee E may prepare the food without using the dispenser 2 based on the order. Container B containing food can be stored in a storage means such as locker 40, for example, until consumer C comes to pick up container B. The storage means is not limited to the lockers 40, but may be, for example, partitioned or non-partitioned shelves, belt conveyors, or the like. The store 50 may be provided with a consumer terminal 5 for ordering food directly at the store 50 without using the external device 10 . In this case, for example, a consumer passing in front of the store 50 can use the terminal 5 to order food. Alternatively, employee E may receive the order from consumer C in writing, verbally, by telephone, or the like. In this case, referring to FIG. 3, the employee E may input the order from the consumer C into the store device 1 (details will be described later) as a device. Returning to FIG. 2, the store 50 is provided with a digital signage (display) 4 for displaying various images.

3 is a schematic block diagram of the system according to FIG. 1; FIG. Referring to FIG. 3, the system 100 according to the present embodiment can include, for example, a store device 1, a dispenser 2, an output device 3, a digital signage 4, and a terminal 5. Elements can be located in stores 50 . The store device 1, the output device 3, the digital signage 4, and the terminal 5 can communicate via, for example, a wireless or wired LAN (Local Area Network) and/or Bluetooth (registered trademark). Dispenser 2 may also be able to communicate with store device 1, output device 3, digital signage 4 and terminal 5, if desired. System 100 may further comprise other components.

The store device 1 can be, for example, a computer, server, tablet, smart phone, or other communicable device. The store apparatus 1 can have, for example, a processing unit 11, a storage unit (storage device) 12, an input unit 13, a display unit 14, and a communication unit 15, and these components are, for example, a bus. connected to each other by The store apparatus 1 may have other components. The processing unit 11 can be, for example, one or more CPUs (Central Processing Units). Alternatively or additionally, a separate integrated circuit, microprocessor and/or firmware may be used as processing unit 11 . The storage unit 12 can include, for example, a storage device such as a ROM (read only memory), a RAM (random access memory), and a hard disk drive. The storage unit 12 can store various programs executed by the processing unit 11 . The program may be installed in the storage unit 12 from a computer-readable portable recording medium such as CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, etc. using a known setup program or the like.

The input unit 13 can include, for example, a mouse and keyboard, and the display unit 14 can include, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display. A touch panel may be used as the input unit 13 and the display unit 14 . The communication section 15 can have a communication interface circuit for connecting the store apparatus 1 to the network 30 . If necessary, an employee terminal (for example, a tablet, a smartphone, or the like) may be further connected to the store apparatus 1 . In addition, in FIG. 3, the store device 1 is provided in the store 50, but in other embodiments, the store device 1 may be provided outside the store 50, and the output device 3, the digital signage 4, and the terminal 5 or the like via a network 30. Further, as will be described later, the processing unit 11 and the communication unit 15 are included to constitute an identification information providing mechanism and an image display mechanism.

The store device 1 can communicate with the external device 10 via the network 30 . The network 30 is, for example, the Internet, WiFi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), 3G and 4G, or other communication methods based on communication standards defined by 3GPP (Third Generation Partnership Project), Or any combination of these may be used, wired or wireless or a combination thereof. Between the store device 1 and the external device 10, another device (for example, a server for managing orders and/or a server for executing settlement of orders, etc.) may be interposed. For example, if the store 50 is a chain store, an order from the external device 10 may be sent to a server that manages a plurality of stores, and the server may send the order to the store 50 . Similarly, necessary communications from store 50 may be sent to the above server, and communications returned to external device 10 from the server.

The external device 10 can be used by a consumer C to submit a food order. The external device 10 may be, for example, a mobile phone such as a smart phone or a feature phone, a tablet, or a personal computer. The external device 10 may include, for example, storage devices such as a CPU, ROM, RAM, and hard disk drive, and/or input devices and/or display devices such as a touch panel, mouse, keyboard, and liquid crystal display. Consumer C can submit a food order from external device 10, for example, through an application or website. Also, payment for the food may be completed in advance through the external device 10 when the order is completed. In this case, consumer C can quickly receive food at store 50 without payment.

An "order" can contain a variety of information. For example, if the food is a coffee beverage, the order includes the type of coffee beverage base drink (e.g., black coffee, caffe latte, cappuccino, espresso, etc.), coffee type (roast tea, fruity, etc.), Strength (light, regular or strong, etc.), flavor type (caramel, chocolate, mint, or unflavoured, etc.), temperature (hot or cold, etc.), other characteristics of the coffee beverage, presence or type of milk , the presence or absence or amount of sugar, the presence or absence of gum syrup, the presence or absence of other seasonings or flavors, the desired pick-up time of the coffee beverage, information for identifying the consumer, and/or information for identifying the external device 10 , etc., may be included. Also, if the store 50 is a chain store, the order may include information indicating the store name. The order may also include other information. In addition, if the food is other than a coffee drink (e.g., a tea drink (e.g., a drink containing black tea or oolong tea), or a fruit juice drink), the order may include other information depending on the type of food. can be done. Information included in the order is stored in the storage unit 12 of the store apparatus 1 .

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image sent back to the external device. For example, the store apparatus 1 may be configured to return a completion notice N as shown in FIG. 4 to the external apparatus 10 when food preparation is completed. The completion notification N may be sent back to the external device 10, for example, when the employee E inputs to the store device 1 that food preparation is complete.

"Completion notification N" can include various information. For example, the completion notice N can include order identification information (described in more detail below) that can identify the order. For example, the completion notice N can include an image of a label L (detailed below) to be applied to the container B. FIG. In FIG. 4, the image includes container B, but the image may include label L only. When container B is displayed, container B has a color (e.g., black or brown) according to, for example, the type of food ordered (e.g., black coffee, caffe latte, cappuccino, espresso, etc.). may be Alternatively or additionally, for example, the completion notification N may include at least one of the information contained in the order as described above. In addition, the completion notification N includes, for example, the order number set for the order, the QR code (registered trademark), the barcode, and/or the information for identifying the location where the container B is stored (for example, number of the locker 40). Information included in the completion notification N may be stored in the storage unit 12 of the store apparatus 1 .

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a dispenser; Dispenser 2 is used to prepare food. In this disclosure, "food" means all food and drink (excluding pharmaceuticals, quasi-drugs, and regenerative medicine products prescribed in the Act on Securing Quality, Efficacy and Safety of Pharmaceuticals, Medical Devices, etc.) can mean For example, the food can be a food for specified health uses, a food with nutrient function claims, or a general food. For example, the food can be a beverage or food that can be contained in container B and prepared from multiple ingredients by employee E at store 50 . For example, the beverage can be various beverages. For example, a beverage can include an extract extracted from an extraction source (e.g., ground roasted coffee beans or tea leaves) with hot or cold water (e.g., a coffee or tea beverage (e.g., black tea or Beverages containing oolong tea)). Beverages may be other than coffee and tea beverages (eg fruit juice beverages). In other embodiments, the food product may be other beverages or foods (eg, alcoholic beverages, soups, confectionery, etc.). In this embodiment, the food product is a coffee beverage.

The dispenser 2 may comprise a tank (not shown) for containing the coffee extract and a nozzle 21 for dispensing the coffee extract contained in the tank. The dispenser 2 may further comprise a tank for containing perfume and a nozzle for discharging the perfume. Alternatively, the dispenser 2 may comprise a tank for containing flavor and the nozzle 21 may dispense coffee extract and flavor mixed inside the dispenser 2 . Further alternatively, the perfume may be contained in a container D separate from the dispenser 2. The employee E can set the container B in the dispenser 2 and inject the coffee extract and/or flavor into the container B by operating a lever 22 provided on the dispenser 2, for example. The dispenser 2 may be provided with a switch 23 for adjusting the strength and/or temperature of the coffee extract. Dispenser 2 may have other switches for adjusting other characteristics of the coffee extract.

The coffee extract can be pre-prepared, for example, in an out-of-store device or in a device located in-store. The cultivar of coffee beans is not limited to a specific type, and may be, for example, Arabica, Robusta, or Liberica. The coffee bean variety is not limited to a particular type and may be, for example, Mocha, Brazil, Colombia, Guatemala, Blue Mountain, Kona, Mandelin, or Kilimanjaro. One type of coffee beans may be used, or a plurality of types may be blended. Regarding the method of roasting coffee beans, there are no particular restrictions on the roasting temperature and roasting environment, and general methods can be adopted. There are no particular restrictions on the extraction method from roasted coffee beans. For example, the coffee extract can be obtained by adding water or hot water (0 to 100 °C). The extraction method may be, for example, continuous multi-tube, drip, siphon, boiling, or jet. For example, in the continuous multitubular extraction method, a plurality of extraction columns containing coffee extraction raw materials (for example, roasted coffee beans that have been ground to coarse, medium, or fine ground) are connected in series. be. A coffee extract is produced by sequentially passing an extraction solvent (eg, water or hot water) through multiple extraction columns. Such a coffee extract can be prepared, for example, by equipment for continuous multi-tube extraction for canned coffee (or can also be referred to as ready-to-drink coffee).

The coffee extract may be heat sterilized in advance. However, canned coffee is generally produced by mixing a coffee extract extracted by a continuous multitubular extraction method with a flavoring and heat sterilizing the mixture. Note that the coffee extract is heat sterilized with no added flavor.

Heat sterilization can be of various methods. For example, heat sterilization includes a method (UHT heat sterilization method) in which after heat sterilization is performed at a high temperature for a short period of time, a storage container that has been heat sterilized under aseptic conditions is filled. In the case of UHT heat sterilization, the conditions are usually 120 to 150° C. for 1 to 120 seconds, preferably 130 to 145° C. for 30 to 120 seconds.

The flavor may include a first flavor to improve and/or enhance the flavor inherent in the extract, and a second flavor to add a different flavor than the flavor inherent in the extract, wherein the second flavor The first and second perfumes can be distinguished and stored separately. The first flavoring agent may be a liquid containing flavor components derived from raw materials extracted from an extract raw material (for example, ground roasted coffee beans or tea leaves). The first perfume may further contain other ingredients. For example, when the beverage is a coffee beverage, the first flavor may be a liquid containing roasted coffee bean-derived aroma components extracted from the roasted coffee beans, for example, roasty type, fruity type, etc. be able to. Roasted coffee beans can include, for example, Arabica, Robusta, and/or Liberica, and can be determined based on the flavor desired. Secondary flavors include, for example, caramel, chocolate, mint, and the like.

Container B is sealable. In the present disclosure, "sealable" can mean that food does not leak from container B, for example, when container B is turned upside down or when container B is shaken. Container B may also be reclosable. For example, container B can be a plastic bottle. Plastic bottles can be composed of plastics such as, for example, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE). The container B can have, for example, a body for containing food and a cap for closing a mouth provided on the body. Container B may be constructed of other materials than plastic (eg, metal, glass, and/or paper). For example, container B may have a paper body and a paper or plastic cap. Also, for example, container B may have a body made of glass and a cap made of metal or plastic.

The output device 3 outputs order identification information based on the order information stored in the storage unit 12 . In this embodiment, the output device 3 is a printing machine and can print a label L on which order identification information is indicated. The label L may also contain information other than order identification information. The output device 3 can be various printers capable of printing the label L, such as an inkjet printer or a laser printer. The output device 3 may be incorporated in the dispenser 2, or provided separately from the dispenser 2, for example.

“Order identification information” can include various information that can be used to identify individual orders stored in storage 12 . For example, order identification information may include a letter (eg, name or nickname, etc.) LT to identify the consumer and an indicia M selected for the order. For example, the letters LT may be set by consumer C via external device 10 when consumer C submits an order from external device 10 . The mark M can be a shape, a pattern, a color, or a combination thereof, and multiple patterns may be prepared in advance in the system 100 . Indicia M may be selected by consumer C via external device 10 when consumer C submits an order from external device 10, or may be selected by a component within system 100 (e.g., store device 1). may be automatically selected by Also, for example, the order identification information can include at least one of the information included in the order stored in the storage unit 12 and the information included in the completion notification N as described above. The order identification information may also include, for example, the time the food was prepared. Order identification information may include other information.

It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the coffee beverage is prepared at the store, so in contrast to canned coffee, for example, the label L does not need to include the names of raw materials, the expiration date, and the like. Therefore, the label L can have a simple design. Label L may include, for example, an indication such as "Please eat as soon as possible."

As described above, in the present embodiment, the output device 3 is, for example, a printer capable of printing the label L to be attached to the container B. FIG. However, the output device 3 can be any device capable of applying order identification information to the container B. FIG. For example, output device 3 may be a printer capable of applying order identification information directly to container B. FIG. In this case, the output device 3 can be various printers capable of directly printing on the container B based on the order information stored in the storage unit 12, such as an inkjet printer or a laser printer. In addition, for example, the output device 3 may be a laser processing machine capable of attaching the order identification information to the container B directly. In this case, the output device 3 can directly engrave the order identification information on the container B based on the order information stored in the storage unit 12 .

With reference to FIG. 3, the digital signage 4 can display, in real time, that an order has been received and/or that food preparation has been completed, for example. The digital signage 4 may display other information. Images displayed on the digital signage 4 may be moving images and/or still images.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image displayed on a digital signage for notifying that the food is ready. Digital signage 4 may display, for example, an image including container B with order identification information. For example, when the employee E inputs that the preparation of the food is completed to the store device 1, the digital signage 4 indicates that the preparation of the food is completed and the container to which the label L is affixed, as shown in FIG. An image including B may be displayed. Alternatively or additionally, the digital signage 4 may display an image including the container B together with the receipt of the order when the store device 1 receives the order. Note that the image displayed on the digital signage 4 may or may not include the container B when the label L is displayed. If container B is displayed, container B may have a color according to the type of food ordered, for example.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image displayed on a digital signage for displaying historical containers stored in storage. In the system 100, a storage device (for example, the storage unit 12 of the store apparatus 1) in the system 100 stores various information (for example, the image of the label L) regarding the order when the store apparatus 1 receives the order. can be configured as Thus, the storage device can store information regarding multiple orders received in the past. Based on the historical information stored in the storage device, the digital signage 4 may display, for example, an image containing the historical container B with the order identification information. For example, when the digital signage 4 is on standby (for example, when not displaying the completion of food preparation and receipt of orders), the label L stored in the storage device is attached as shown in FIG. It may be configured to display an image including a plurality of containers B in the past. Therefore, a consumer C who has purchased food at the store 50 in the past uses the digital signage 4 after purchasing food, such as searching for his/her own container B among the plurality of containers B displayed on the digital signage 4. can be seen and enjoyed. In addition, in FIG. 8 , a plurality of past containers B are displayed, but only a single past container B may be displayed on the digital signage 4 .

When a plurality of containers B in the past are displayed on the digital signage 4, the container B is incorporated into the list of the plurality of containers B displayed on the digital signage 4 after a predetermined period of time stored in the storage device, for example. good too. Also, the container B may be deleted from the list of the plurality of containers B displayed on the digital signage 4 after a predetermined period of time stored in the storage device, for example.

Note that the image displayed on the digital signage 4 may or may not include the container B when the label L is displayed. If container B is displayed, container B may have a color according to the type of food ordered, for example. Also, a plurality of containers B may be displayed on the digital signage 4 simultaneously as shown in FIG. may be

Referring to FIG. 3, terminal 5 may be, for example, a tablet, computer, or other communication capable device. The terminal 5 may include, for example, storage devices such as a CPU, ROM, RAM, and hard disk drive, and/or input devices and/or display devices such as a touch panel, mouse, keyboard, and liquid crystal display. Consumer C can use terminal 5 to order food. The order from the terminal 5 can include at least one of the information included in the order from the external device 10 described above.

System 100 may further comprise other components. For example, the system 100 may include means (eg, a reader, etc.) for identifying the order upon delivery of the food product to consumer C. The reader may be configured to read information (eg, QR code (registered trademark) Q or bar code) included in the completion notification N returned to the external device 10 . The reader can be, for example, a QR code reader or a barcode reader. A reader (or other component of system 100) may determine whether the information read by the reader is valid. For example, employee E may hand container B identified by the information read to consumer C if the information read by the reader is determined to be valid.

Next, the effects of the store device and system according to the present embodiment will be described through the description of the flow chart relating to the provision of food.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart for providing food using the store device and system according to the embodiment. Referring to FIG. 6, provision of food begins with store apparatus 1 receiving an order from consumer C (step S100). An order may be entered from the external device 10 or terminal 5 . Alternatively, the employee E may receive the order from the consumer C in paper form, orally, or by telephone, or may input the order from the consumer C into the store device 1 through the input unit 13. good. Subsequently, the store apparatus 1 inputs the received order to the storage unit 12 (step S101).

Subsequently, the store apparatus 1 notifies the employee E of the received order (step S102). Notification can be in various ways. For example, the store apparatus 1 may indicate on the display unit 14 that a new order has been received. Moreover, the store apparatus 1 may indicate by voice that a new order has been accepted. Further, the store apparatus 1 may display at least one piece of information included in the order on the display unit 14 as notification or in addition to the notification. For example, when a plurality of orders are accepted, the store apparatus 1 may display the orders on the display unit 14 in order from the order with the earliest desired pick-up time to the order with the latest order. For example, if the brewing times differ depending on the type of coffee beverage, the brewing times may be considered in the order displayed. For example, coffee beverage orders with longer brewing times may be prioritized over coffee beverage orders with shorter brewing times. The display order may be changed as appropriate.

Employee E then prepares a coffee beverage and supplies the coffee beverage to container B (step S104). For example, employee E may prepare a coffee beverage based on an order shown on display 14 . Further, for example, the shop apparatus 1 automatically selects an order to be prepared from among the orders displayed on the display unit 14, or when the employee E selects the order using the input unit 13, the output device 3 may be configured to send an instruction to print the label L. Employee E may prepare a coffee beverage based on printed label L. If multiple orders have been received, the employee E may prepare the coffee beverages according to the order displayed on the store device 1, or the order may be changed under certain circumstances. Good (e.g., if a customer with an order arrives early at the store before container B is ready, etc.).

For example, employee E pours coffee extract from dispenser 2 into container B, and after (or before) pouring the coffee extract from dispenser 2 (or from container D separate from dispenser 2) a first of perfume can be injected into container B. Further, the employee E may further pour the second flavor, milk, sugar, gum syrup, and/or other seasonings into the container B based on the order shown on the display unit 14, for example. good. If the coffee extract has a higher concentration than commonly consumed coffee beverages, employee E may use a diluent (e.g., water, hot water, and/or milk (e.g., cow's milk or milk) The coffee extract may be diluted with a

Employee E then seals container B containing the supplied coffee beverage (step S106). For example, employee E caps the body of a plastic bottle.

Subsequently, the order identification information is attached to the container B (step S108). In this embodiment, the output device 3 prints the label L based on the order information stored in the storage unit 12, and the employee E affixes the label L to the container B. FIG. Subsequently, the employee E stores the container B in the storage means (step S110). For example, employee E can place container B in locker 40 with the number printed on label L. Preparation of the container B is complete|finished by the above. Note that if the consumer C is in the store 50 before putting the container B into the locker 40 (for example, if the consumer C orders a coffee drink from the terminal 5, the employee E receives the order from the consumer C at the store). input into the device 1, or if the consumer C arrives at the store 50 before the container B is stored in the locker 40), the employee E can store the container B without performing step S110. It will be appreciated that it may be handed directly to consumer C.

Subsequently, when the employee E inputs to the store apparatus 1 via the input unit 13 that the preparation of the coffee beverage is completed, the store apparatus 1 displays an image as shown in FIG. 7 on the digital signage 4. It is displayed as a notification (step S112). If the consumer C is in the store 50 when the completion notification is displayed on the digital signage 4 (for example, if the consumer C orders a coffee drink from the terminal 5, the employee E receives the order from the consumer C entered into store device 1, or if consumer C arrived at store 50 before container B was stored in locker 40), consumer C would receive a digital message that the coffee beverage was ready. It can be known based on the display of the signage 4.

Subsequently, the store apparatus 1 returns an image including the label L to the external apparatus 10 as a completion notification N (step S114). Note that the store apparatus 1 may be configured to transmit a completion notification N to the external apparatus 10 together with transmitting the instruction to print the label L to the output apparatus 3 in step S104. Step S114 may be performed before step S112, or may be performed simultaneously with step S112, for example.

Subsequently, consumer C receives container B (step S116). For example, based on the order identification information included in the completion notification N sent to his/her own external device 10, the consumer C selects his/her container B (corresponding order identification information) from among the plurality of containers B in the storage means. A container B) marked with can be found and picked up. Alternatively or additionally, consumer C may use the reader upon arrival at store 50 . For example, the reader reads a QR code (registered trademark) or barcode displayed on the external device 10 (or printed on paper). The employee E hands the container B identified by the read information to the consumer C when the information read by the reader is determined to be valid.

Subsequently, the digital signage 4 displays an image as shown in FIG. 8 during standby (step S118). When the consumer C is still at the store 50, or when the consumer C visits the store 50 again, the consumer C finds the container B which he/she ordered in the past from among the plurality of containers B, etc. , the display of the digital signage 4 can be enjoyed.

Next, the steps performed by the store apparatus 1 in the flow relating to the provision of food will be described in more detail. FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing steps performed by the store apparatus 1 . The processing executed by the store apparatus 1 below can be realized by the processing unit 11 operating according to a program stored in the storage unit 12, for example.

The processing unit 11 of the store device 1 receives an order from the consumer C from the external device 10 or the terminal 5 via the communication unit 15, or from the input unit 13 by the employee E (step S200). Subsequently, the processing unit 11 inputs the received order to the storage unit 12 (step S201). Subsequently, the processing unit 11 notifies the employee E of the received order (step S202). Steps S200, S201 and S202 may be similar to steps S100, S101 and S102 described above, respectively.

Subsequently, the identification information adding mechanisms 11 and 15 send an instruction to the output device 3 to output the order identification information (step S204). Specifically, the processing unit 11 transmits an instruction to the output device 3 via the communication unit 15 to output the order identification information. In this embodiment, the processing unit 11 collects order identification information (e.g. the letters LT to identify the consumer, an indicia M selected for the order, the type of base drink of the coffee beverage (e.g. black coffee, caffe latte , cappuccino, or espresso, etc.), coffee type (roast tea or fruity, etc.) for specifying the first flavor, strength (light, regular, or strong, etc.), specifying the second flavor flavor type (caramel, chocolate, mint, or no flavor, etc.), temperature (hot or cold, etc.), presence/absence and amount of milk, presence/absence and amount of sugar, presence/absence and amount of gum syrup, collection of coffee beverages An instruction can be sent to the output device 3 to print the label L including at least one of the desired time and information for identifying the external device 10 .

Subsequently, the image display mechanisms 11 and 15 send an instruction to the digital signage 4 to display an image including the label L as a completion notice (step S206). Specifically, the processing unit 11 receives an input indicating the completion of preparation of the coffee beverage from the employee E via the input unit 13, and then displays an image including the label L as shown in FIG. 7 as a completion notification. An instruction is transmitted to the digital signage 4 via the communication unit 15 so as to do so. Subsequently, the image display mechanisms 11 and 15 transmit an image including the label L as a completion notification N to the external device 10 (step S208). Step S208 may be performed before step S206, or may be performed simultaneously with step S206, for example. Subsequently, the image display mechanisms 11 and 15 transmit an instruction to the digital signage 4 during standby to display an image including a plurality of past containers B as shown in FIG. 8 (step S210). Steps S206, S208 and S210 can be similar to steps S112, S114 and S118 above, respectively.

As described above, according to the store apparatus and system according to the present embodiment, food can be supplied to the container B and the container B can be sealed after receiving an order. Therefore, the food can be provided in a portable form. Further, the order identification information is output from the output device 3 based on the order information stored in the storage unit 12, and the order identification information can be attached to the container B by the output. Therefore, for example, the order identification information can be accurately attached to the container B, compared to the case where the above information is attached to the container by handwriting. This allows the consumer C to recognize his own container B without error.

Foods provided by the store apparatus and system according to the present embodiment are, for example, beverages. Beverages also contain heat-sterilized extracts. Such extracts can be prepared, for example, by equipment for producing heat-sterilized extracts for canned beverages. Also, here, the beverage is specifically a coffee beverage, the coffee beverage contains a heat-sterilized coffee extract, and the coffee extract is heat-sterilized after continuous multi-tube extraction. It is an extract. Such a coffee extract can be prepared, for example, by existing equipment for continuous multi-tube extraction for canned coffee. Because coffee beverages are prepared using pre-prepared heat-sterilized coffee extracts in such equipment, coffee beverages can be produced more quickly than when coffee is extracted in-store from ground coffee beans. can provide.

Further, according to the store apparatus and system according to the present embodiment, when food is supplied to the container, the heat-sterilized coffee extract contains the aroma component derived from the raw material of the coffee extract. 1 flavor can be added. Therefore, the coffee beverage can re-contain aromas that are lost from the extract due to heat sterilization, such as when the coffee extract is heat sterilized after the coffee extract has been flavored (e.g., canned coffee). In comparison, it is possible to provide a high-quality coffee beverage with a high aroma that does not lose its aroma. As a result, according to the store device and system according to the present embodiment, it is possible to provide high-quality coffee beverages more quickly.

Also, the container B is reclosable. Therefore, portability can be improved.

Moreover, according to the store device and system according to the present embodiment, the container B is a plastic bottle. Therefore, it is possible to obtain excellent portability compared to carrying coffee in a paper cup, for example.

A variety of devices can be used to apply the order identification information to the container. In this embodiment, the identification information attachment mechanisms 11 and 15 are configured to print the label L showing the order identification information by a printing machine and to affix the label L to the container B. there is Alternatively or additionally, the identification mechanism 11, 15 may be configured to allow the order identification information to be printed directly onto the container B by a printing press. Alternatively or additionally, the identification mechanism 11, 15 may be configured to allow the order identification information to be engraved directly into the container B by a laser machine.

Also, in this embodiment, the order identification information includes the letters LT to identify the consumer C and the indicia M selected for the order. Thus, the two elements comprising the letters LT and the indicia M allow easy visual identification of the container B bearing the order identification. Therefore, consumer C can find his container B easily.

Further, according to the store device and system according to the present embodiment, the order is transmitted from the external device 10 outside the store 50 to the storage unit 12, and the food is provided by the external device 10 using the order identification information as the completion notification N. can reply to Therefore, consumer C can easily find his/her own container B at store 50 based on the order identification information returned to external device 10 .

Further, according to the store device and system according to this embodiment, an image including the label L can be displayed on the digital signage 4 installed in the store 50 . Therefore, by displaying an image including the label L on the digital signage 4 together with a food preparation completion notification, the consumer C can confirm that the food preparation is completed based on his/her own label L displayed on the digital signage 4. can be easily known.

Further, according to the store device and system according to the present embodiment, the image of the label L can be saved in the storage device, and the image including the past label L saved in the storage device is displayed on the digital signage 4. can do. Therefore, since the label L of the past order stored in the storage device is displayed on the digital signage 4, the consumer C can enjoy the display of the digital signage 4 after purchasing the food, such as searching for his own label L. can be done. Therefore, the consumer C can be provided with a high sense of satisfaction.

Moreover, according to the store device and system according to the present embodiment, the container B in which food is supplied can be stored. Therefore, it is convenient for the consumer, for example, if the consumer C cannot receive the food immediately.

Although embodiments of a store apparatus and system for serving food products have been described, the invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that many variations of the above-described embodiments are possible. It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that features included in one embodiment may be incorporated into other embodiments or interchanged with features included in other embodiments unless inconsistent. will understand The above food serving steps do not necessarily have to be performed in the above order and may be performed in a different order as long as there is no conflict.

For example, in the embodiments described above, the label L is printed during preparation of the food product. However, label L may also be printed, for example, when container B is ready (eg, when container B has been sealed).

Also, for example, some steps are performed by employee E in the above embodiment. However, some or all of the steps performed by employee E may be performed automatically by system 100 . For example, the system 100 includes a device for setting the container B in the dispenser 2, a mechanism for automatically injecting the heat-sterilized coffee extract and flavor from the dispenser 2 into the container B based on an order, It may further comprise at least one of a device for closing the cap and a device for placing the sealed container B into the storage means.

1 store device 2 dispenser 3 output device 4 digital signage (display)
5 terminal 10 external device 11 processing unit (identification information provision mechanism, image display mechanism)
12 storage unit (storage device)
13 Input Unit 14 Display Unit 15 Communication Unit (Identification Information Giving Mechanism, Image Display Mechanism)
21 nozzle 22 lever 23 switch 30 network 40 locker 50 store 100 system B container L label LT letter M mark

Claims (5)

A store device provided in a store for providing food,
a processing unit for pre-accepting an order from a consumer online;
a storage device for entering the order information;
An identification information attachment mechanism for attaching visible order identification information capable of identifying the order to a container into which the food is supplied, wherein the identification information attachment mechanism includes a label indicating the order identification information. can be printed by an output device and the label can be applied to the container, and the order identification information is based on the order information stored in the storage device. an identification information attachment mechanism output from an output device and attached to the container by the output of the output device;
The image containing the label can be stored in the storage device, and the image containing the label and the image containing the label of the past order stored in the storage device are displayed on a display installed in the store. an image display mechanism for displaying on
with
A store apparatus, wherein the container is picked up by a consumer directly from the store. A store device provided in a store for providing food,
a processing unit that accepts orders previously set online by a consumer;
a storage device for entering the order information;
An identification information attachment mechanism for attaching visible order identification information capable of identifying the order to a container into which the food is supplied, wherein the identification information attachment mechanism includes a label indicating the order identification information. can be printed by an output device and the label can be applied to the container, and the order identification information is based on the order information stored in the storage device. an identification information attachment mechanism output from an output device and attached to the container by the output of the output device;
with
the order identification information includes characters and indicia that are configurable online by the consumer;
wherein the text and indicia may include text and indicia that are different from the order information;
A store apparatus, wherein the container is picked up by a consumer directly from the store. 2. The store apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the order identification information includes characters and indicia that are configurable online by the consumer. In a system that accepts orders from consumers to provide food,
an order department where consumers pre-set orders online;
a processing unit that receives the order from the consumer;
a storage device for storing information of the consumer's order;
An output device for outputting visible order identification information capable of identifying the order based on the information of the order stored in the storage device, wherein the order identification information is the food item to be served. an output device attached to the container;
with
the order identification information includes characters and indicia that are configurable online by the consumer;
wherein the text and indicia may include text and indicia that are different from the order information;
A system, wherein the container is picked up by the consumer directly at the store. In a system that accepts orders from consumers to provide food,
an order department where consumers pre-set orders online;
a processing unit that receives the order from the consumer;
a storage device for storing information of the consumer's order;
A printing machine that prints a label showing visible order identification information that can identify the order based on the information of the order stored in the storage device, wherein the label includes: a printer, which is affixed to a container to be supplied;
a display installed at a store where the container is picked up by a consumer, the display displaying an image including the label;
with
the order identification information includes characters and indicia that are configurable online by the consumer;
A system , wherein the text and indicia may include text and indicia that are different from the information relating to the order .

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