Locker apparatus

Abstract

The locker device of the present invention comprises a box, a door for opening and closing the box, a locking device for the door, an operating unit, and a control device that controls the locking device according to the operation of the operating unit. The control device locks the locking device to keep the door closed except when loading cargo into the box and when unloading cargo. The operating unit includes an unloading button operated to unload cargo from the box into which cargo has been loaded. When the unloading button is operated, the control device unlocks the locking device to open the door of the box into which cargo has been loaded, and subsequently, when the door is closed and it is determined that there is cargo in the box based on the detection result of the cargo sensor, the locking device is kept unlocked.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The technology disclosed in this specification relates to a locker device comprising a box capable of accommodating cargo, a door for opening and closing the box, and a locking device for locking the door so as to be unlocked. Background Technology

[0002] Conventionally, as a technology of this type, the technology described in the following patent documents 1 to 3 is known. Patent documents 1 to 3 describe a technology regarding a coin locker of the type that performs temporary locking of the door at all times when the coin locker is not in use.

[0003] Conventional coin lockers were generally of the open-type, in which the door was not locked when there was no cargo deposit. Consequently, trash was dumped into the boxes, or the boxes were used freely as storage spaces for cargo, causing problems from the perspective of hygiene and security, and installers were burdened with managing the situation. In contrast, the open-type coin lockers described in Patent Documents 1 to 3 allow the door to be temporarily locked even when there is no cargo deposit, thereby reducing the aforementioned management burden.

[0004] In recent years, coin lockers that do not use physical keys have become mainstream in the form of locker devices that electrically operate and control the locking and unlocking of the locking mechanism. For example, a user is configured to identify available boxes by number on the control panel provided in the locker device and perform a payment operation for the usage fee by designating that number. Patent documents 1 and 2 describe a method of payment by cash, and patent document 3 describes a method of payment by credit card, etc. In response to this payment operation, when the locker device confirms the payment of the usage fee, the locking mechanism of the designated box is unlocked, the door opens, and the deposit of goods becomes possible. When the user deposits goods, closes the door, and confirms the operation, the locking mechanism is locked. When such goods are deposited, a memo recording the number of the designated box is issued to the user for convenience when the goods are retrieved. For example, Patent Documents 1 and 2 describe that when loading cargo, a receipt paper fragment with a barcode attached is issued as a memo from a locker device, and when loading cargo, the issued receipt paper fragment is placed against a barcode reader to authenticate the user, unlock the locking device of a designated box, and open the door. On the other hand, Patent Document 3 describes that instead of a receipt paper fragment, a two-dimensional code such as a serial number code, a barcode, or a QR code (registered trademark) is used to recognize the user and unlock the locking device. Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Utility Model Registration No. 3113126 Publication Patent Document 2: Japanese Utility Model Registration No. 3113263 Publication Patent Document 3: Japanese Utility Model Registration No. 3220448 Publication The problem to be solved

[0006] However, in the locking mechanism of the loading and unloading type described in Patent Documents 1 to 3, for a user to retrieve goods from a box, the user must unlock the locking mechanism of the designated box, open the door, and then retrieve the goods. At this time, for example, immediately after user (A) retrieves the goods, and before the door is closed, a subsequent user (B) may hurriedly put goods into that box (X) by mistake. At this time, when the door is closed, the locking mechanism is locked as a normal standby operation in the loading and unloading type locking mechanism, and the door is locked. That is, in this state, since the locking occurs after the previous user (A) retrieves the goods, the box (X) into which the subsequent user (B) puts goods is assumed to be an empty box, and the door is locked. Because of this, thereafter, another user (C) may select the box (X) as an available empty box, and if the locking device of the box (X) is unlocked, the door opens and the contents inside can be removed, causing a security problem.

[0007] This disclosed technology has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a locker device that prevents the door from being locked even if a subsequent user accidentally attempts to deposit cargo into a box from which a previous user has taken cargo. means of solving the problem

[0008] (1) To achieve the above objective, one aspect of the present disclosure is a locker device comprising a box capable of receiving cargo, a door for opening and closing the box, a locking device for locking the door so as to be unlocked, an operating unit for receiving operation by a user, and a control device for controlling the locking device according to the operation of the operating unit by the user, wherein the control device is configured to lock the locking device so as to lock the door in a closed state except when loading cargo into the box and when taking out the cargo from the box, wherein the box is provided with a cargo sensor for detecting cargo in the box, the operating unit includes a takeout button operated by the user to take out cargo from the box in which cargo has been loaded, and the control device is intended to unlock the locking device to open the door of the box in which cargo has been loaded when the takeout button is operated by the user, and then the door is closed, and when it is determined that there is cargo in the box based on the detection result of the cargo sensor, the locking device is kept unlocked.

[0009] According to the configuration of (1) above, when the extraction button is operated to extract cargo from the box into which the user has loaded cargo, the locking device is unlocked to open the door of the box into which the cargo has loaded. After that, when the door is closed, if it is determined that there is cargo in the box based on the detection result of the cargo sensor, the locking device remains unlocked. Therefore, when the user extracts cargo from the box into which the user has loaded cargo, even if a subsequent user accidentally loads cargo into that box and closes the door, the locking device is not locked.

[0010] (2) To achieve the above objective, the configuration of (1) further comprises a cargo lamp that operates to indicate whether there is cargo in the box, and the control device preferably lights up or flashes the cargo lamp while it is determined that there is cargo in the target box based on the detection result of the cargo sensor after the ejection button is operated by the user.

[0011] According to the configuration of (2) above, in addition to the operation of the configuration of (1) above, after the ejection button is operated by the user, the cargo lamp lights up or flashes while it is determined that there is cargo in the target box based on the detection result of the cargo sensor. Therefore, even if a subsequent user accidentally deposits cargo into the box, the subsequent user is notified of the accidental deposit.

[0012] (3) To achieve the above objective, the present invention further comprises, in the configuration of (1) or (2), a reservation receiving means for receiving a reservation for use of a box, and the control device is configured to record and manage the status of a box in use and a box not in use, and to manage the receipt and recording of a reservation for use from the reservation receiving means for a box not in use, and the control device preferably stops receiving a reservation for use from the reservation receiving means for a box that is determined to have cargo based on the detection result of a cargo sensor.

[0013] According to the configuration (3) above, in addition to the operation of the configuration (1) or (2) above, the control device manages the usage status of the box and manages the receipt and recording of usage reservations for unused boxes. Here, when a user retrieves luggage from a box in which luggage has been deposited, the box initially appears to be empty. However, the control device stops accepting usage reservations for boxes in which luggage is determined to be present based on the detection result of the luggage sensor. Therefore, when a user retrieves luggage from a box, a subsequent user may accidentally deposit luggage into that box, and at that same time, even if another user attempts to make a usage reservation for that box, the reservation is not accepted. Effects of the invention

[0014] According to the configuration of (1) above, it is possible to prevent the door from being locked even if a subsequent user accidentally puts cargo into a box from which a previous user has taken cargo.

[0015] According to the configuration of (2) above, in addition to the effect of the configuration of (1) above, it is possible for a subsequent user to recognize and respond to the accidental deposit of cargo early.

[0016] According to the configuration of (3) above , In addition to the effects of the configuration of (1) or (2) above, it is possible to prevent another user from reserving a box even if a subsequent user accidentally deposits cargo into a box from which a previous user has taken cargo. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0017] FIG. 1 is a front view showing a rocker device according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a rocker device according to a first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a standby screen displayed on a display unit when performing a cargo extraction mode according to a first embodiment. FIG. 4 is an authentication selection screen displayed on a display unit when performing a cargo extraction mode according to a first embodiment. FIG. 5 is an authentication execution screen displayed on a display unit when performing a cargo extraction mode according to a first embodiment. FIG. 6 is an authentication execution screen displayed on a display unit when performing a cargo extraction mode according to a first embodiment. FIG. 7 is an authentication execution screen displayed on a display unit when performing a cargo extraction mode according to a first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a box selection screen displayed on a display unit when performing a cargo extraction mode according to a first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a discharge confirmation screen displayed on a display unit when performing a cargo discharge mode according to a first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a confirmation screen for ejection displayed on a display unit when performing a cargo ejection mode according to a first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a box unlocking screen displayed on a display unit when performing a cargo extraction mode according to a first embodiment. FIG. 12 is a termination screen displayed on a display unit when performing a cargo extraction mode according to a first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a first warning screen displayed on a display unit when a cargo extraction mode is performed, according to a first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a second warning screen displayed on a display unit when performing a cargo extraction mode according to a first embodiment. FIG. 15 is a box unlocking screen displayed on a display unit when performing a cargo extraction mode according to a first embodiment. FIG. 16 is a termination screen displayed on a display unit when performing a cargo extraction mode according to a first embodiment. FIG. 17 is a warning screen displayed on a display unit when performing a cargo extraction mode according to a second embodiment. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0018] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the rocker device of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0019] <First Embodiment>

[0020] First, the first embodiment is described.

[0021] [Overview of the Rocker Device Configuration]

[0022] FIG. 1 shows a front view of a locker device (1). FIG. 2 shows a block diagram of the electrical configuration of the locker device (1). The locker device (1) of this embodiment is installed, for example, within a railway station premises and is used to temporarily deposit and store cargo.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 1, the locker device (1) is composed of a housing (10), a plurality of boxes (11) capable of accommodating cargo in the housing (10), an operating unit (20) for receiving operation by a user to put cargo into and take out of the boxes (11), and a control device (30) for controlling the opening and closing, locking and unlocking of the boxes (11) and the display of the operating unit (20) according to the operation of the operating unit (20) by the user.

[0024] [Regarding the contents of the box]

[0025] As shown in FIG. 1, the locker device (1) is equipped with a plurality of boxes (11) capable of accommodating the user's luggage. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, the locker device (1) is equipped with a total of 24 boxes (11) arranged in a 2x12 column configuration, and the upper right column and lower right column of FIG. 1 include a plurality of small boxes (11a) with a small front width. Furthermore, the number of boxes (11) and small boxes (11a) in this embodiment is merely an example and can be increased or decreased as needed. Also, although the locker device (1) of this embodiment is composed of a plurality of boxes (11) and small boxes (11a) with different front widths as shown in FIG. 1, it is also possible to configure the plurality of boxes to all have the same front width.

[0026] A door (12) capable of opening and closing independently for each box (11, 11a) is provided at the front opening of each box (11, 11a). A box number (0001 to 0031) is assigned to the surface of each door (12) to identify the corresponding box (11, 11a). In addition, in this embodiment, the door (12) is a left-opening door that opens to the left in the drawing relative to the box (11, 11a), for example, but may be a right-opening door that opens to the right in the drawing relative to the box (11, 11a). Furthermore, a locking device (13) (see FIG. 2), which will be described later, is provided inside each box (11, 11a). In this embodiment, a description of the specific configuration of the locking device (13) is omitted. Additionally, each box (11, 11a) is provided with a cargo sensor (40) (see FIG. 2) for detecting cargo within the same box (11, 11a). As the cargo sensor (40), for example, a contact-type sensor that detects the presence or absence of cargo by detecting the weight of the cargo, or a non-contact-type sensor that detects the presence or absence of cargo by detecting the reflection of light waves, etc., on the cargo, may be adopted.

[0027] In the door (12) of each box (11, 11a), a lever (14) is provided for the user to operate to request the locking of the locking device (13) when the user deposits cargo into the box (11, 11a) and closes the door (12). In addition, in FIG. 1, the lever (14) is shown only on the door (12) numbered “0001” and “0002” for convenience, and the illustration of the other door (12) is omitted.

[0028] [Regarding the composition of the control unit]

[0029] As shown in FIG. 1, the control unit (20) is equipped with a camera (21) for recognizing a user, a display unit (22) of a liquid crystal screen for exchanging information with the user, a QR code reader (23) for reading data such as a QR code (registered trademark) from the user, a payment terminal (24) capable of reading an IC tag embedded in a cash card, and a printer (26) for printing receipts for proof of use. Data input from the user can be performed by the QR code reader (23) and the payment terminal (24). Here, the cash card is capable of payment of electronic money, such as a transportation system IC card, for example. Here, the display unit (22), QR code reader (23), and payment terminal (24) of the control unit (20) correspond to an example of an "authentication means" of this disclosed technology. The display unit (22) is configured to display at least one of a virtual button, an illustration of a locker device, and a character, as described below.

[0030] [ [Regarding the configuration of the control device]

[0031] The control device (30) is provided inside the operating unit (20) and is configured to control the locking device (13) of each box (11, 11a) according to the operation of the operating unit (20) by the user. As shown in FIG. 2, the control device (30) is equipped with a CPU (31) and a memory (32). The memory (32) stores, for example, a loading program (32a) for controlling loading cargo into the box (11, 11a) and a removal program (32b) for controlling removal of cargo from the box (11, 11a). The control device (30) is electrically connected to the locking device (13), the lever (14), and the operating unit (20), and is configured to control the locking device (13) and the screen display of the display unit (22) based on the loading program (32a) or the removal program (32b). In FIG. 2, only one locking device (13) is shown for convenience, but in reality, the same number of locking devices (13) as each box (11, 11a) is connected to the control device (30). Additionally, a communication unit (50) is connected to the control device (30), and the locker device (1) is made capable of communicating with a management device (not shown) through the communication unit (50). The management device is a higher-level device for the locker device (1), installed within the station premises or at any other location. In this embodiment, the communication unit (50) corresponds to an example of a "reservation reception means" for receiving usage reservations for the boxes (11, 11a). The control device (30) is configured to record and manage the status of the boxes in use (11, 11a) and the unused boxes (11, 11a), and to receive and record usage reservations from the communication unit (50) for the unused boxes (11, 11a), and a reservation program (32c) for this purpose is provided in the memory (32). Furthermore, a cargo sensor (40) is connected to the control device (30). The control device (30) is configured to determine whether there is cargo in each box (11, 11a) based on the detection result by the cargo sensor (40).In FIG. 2, only one cargo sensor (40) is shown for convenience, but in reality, the same number of cargo sensors (40) as each box (11, 11a) is connected to the control device (30). Furthermore, the control device (30) stops accepting usage reservations from the communication unit (50) (reservation acceptance means) for the box (11, 11a) that is determined to have cargo based on the detection result of the cargo sensor (40).

[0032] This control device (30) is configured to automatically open and close the doors (12) of each box (11, 11a) by controlling the locking device (13). In addition, the locking device (13) of this embodiment always locks each door (12) in a closed state, and when opening the door (12), it is opened manually, and when closing the door (12), it is closed manually or automatically by means of a spring, etc.

[0033] The locker device (1) of the present embodiment is a so-called “locking type locker device,” and the control device (30) is configured to lock the locking device (13) so that the door (12) is locked in a closed state except when loading cargo into the box (11, 11a) or taking cargo out of the box (11, 11a).

[0034] [Regarding the cargo loading procedure]

[0035] Next, the procedure for a user to deposit cargo in the locker device (1) will be explained.

[0036] Among the multiple boxes (11, 11a), the state in which no cargo is contained (a state in which a user can deposit cargo) becomes a “standby mode.” The box (11, 11a) in standby mode is in a locked state. At this time, the locking device (13) locks the door (12) of the box (11, 11a) into a closed state.

[0037] In standby mode, for a user to deposit cargo into a box (11, 11a), the user first accepts the start of use at the control unit (20). The control device (30) displays a virtual button for selecting deposit on the display unit (22), and accepts the user by tapping the virtual button. At this time, the control device (30) can inform the user of available empty boxes (11, 11a) by displaying their door numbers based on the detection result of the cargo sensor (40). Here, the virtual button is an illustration displayed on the display unit (22) and is a button that functions electrically when the user taps it on the screen.

[0038] Afterward, the control device (30) displays the usage fee on the display unit (22). The user, having confirmed the fee, inputs usage data via the QR code reader (23) and the payment terminal (24) and performs payment of the fee. During this payment, the data is configured to be used for authentication when taking out goods, such as by storing the unique number of the IC tag of the IC card read by the payment terminal (24) in the memory (32). When payment is made, the control device (30) prints a receipt as proof of use by the printer (26). Furthermore, payment is not limited to the form using an IC card; it may be in other forms such as credit card payment or QR code payment, or multiple forms may be selectively combined. Also, when making payment using a method other than an IC card, it is possible to print a mark such as an unlocking QR code (registered trademark) on the receipt and perform authentication by reading the printed mark.

[0039] [Regarding the procedure for extracting cargo]

[0040] Next, the procedure for a user to retrieve luggage from the locker device (1) will be explained.

[0041] In order for a user to retrieve cargo from a locker device (1), the user inputs the necessary data into the control unit (20). The control device (30) displays a virtual button for selecting retrieval on the display unit (22), and the user taps the virtual button to begin receiving. At this time, if the usage fee for one day of the locker device (1) is exceeded, for example, when the locker device (1) has been used for two days, the excess fee is automatically transferred via credit card or cashless payment, and the settlement is completed. When the settlement is completed, the control device (30) unlocks the locking device (13) and opens the door (12) of the box (11, 11a). The user retrieves the cargo from the box (11, 11a) and closes the door. At this time, the control device (30) locks the locking device (13) to lock the door (12) of the box (11, 11a) to a closed state.

[0042] [Regarding the technical features of the rocker device of the present embodiment]

[0043] In the locker device (1) of the present embodiment, in order to solve the problem of the conventional locker device described above, it is configured to implement a “load removal mode” so that the door (12) is not locked even if a subsequent user accidentally tries to deposit load into the box (11, 11a) immediately after the previous user has removed load from the box (11, 11a).

[0044] Regarding the operation of cargo extraction mode

[0045] In this embodiment, the control device (30) is configured to sequentially transition the screen of the display unit (22) from a predetermined "standby screen" according to the operation of a virtual button by the user. FIGS. 3 to 16 show transition screens displayed on the display unit (22) when the "cargo extraction mode" is actually used. The control device (30) controls the conversational screen transitions in the display unit (22) regarding the "cargo extraction mode" based on a preset extraction program (32b).

[0046] First, when a user faces the display unit (22) of the control unit (20), the control device (30) displays a "waiting screen" as shown in FIG. 3 on the display unit (22). On this waiting screen, a plurality of virtual buttons (60) that can be tapped are displayed. At the top of the waiting screen, a loading button (61) that the user operates when loading cargo into the box (11, 11a), a loading button (62) that the user operates to take out cargo from the box (11, 11a) into which cargo has been loaded, and a reopening door button (63) that the user can operate to indicate the reopening of the door (12) are displayed. The reopening door button (63) is a button that the user operates not to take out cargo from the box (11, 11a), but specifically when putting cargo back into the box (11, 11a). In this embodiment, the re-insertion of cargo by operating the re-opening button (63) is made possible with a delay of "within 15 minutes." On the standby screen, the deposit button (61) and the ejection button (62) are displayed side by side horizontally, and the re-opening button (63) is positioned adjacent to the upper side of the ejection button (62). The horizontal width of the re-opening button (63) is almost the same as that of the ejection button (62), and the vertical width is smaller than that of the ejection button (62). By setting the size in this way, the ejection button (62), which is used to eject cargo more frequently than to re-insert cargo, is made more visible than the re-opening button (63), thereby eliminating confusion regarding button operation. Additionally, in the middle of the standby screen, a reservation deposit button (64) is displayed to instruct the reservation deposit, receipt, and dispatch of cargo. Furthermore, at the bottom of the standby screen, a business menu button (65) for selecting a cargo handling business, a button (66) for explaining how to use and indicating the size of the box, and a language button (67) for selecting the display language are displayed.

[0047] On this standby screen, the user taps the reopen door button (63) to perform the reopen door mode. In this embodiment, the door (12) can be reopened for free within a predetermined time period immediately after the cargo is deposited. In this embodiment, the predetermined time period is set to "within 15 minutes." Also, in this embodiment, it is set so that the door (12) can be opened multiple times within the "within 15 minutes" period.

[0048] On this standby screen, the user performs the “cargo extraction mode” and taps the extraction button (62) to extract the cargo.

[0049] When the extraction button (62) is tapped, the control device (30) transitions the display of the display unit (22) to the "authentication selection screen" shown in FIG. 4. On this authentication selection screen, multiple virtual buttons (60) that can be tapped, such as text, are displayed to select an authentication method. At the top of this authentication selection screen, the text "Extract" is displayed. Also, at the middle of this authentication selection screen, multiple types of authentication buttons are displayed to select one of the multiple authentication methods. Specifically, at the middle of the authentication selection screen, as authentication buttons, an IC card button (71) for selecting the use of an IC card, a QR code button (72) for selecting the use of a QR code (registered trademark), and a number input button (73) for selecting number input are displayed. Also, at the bottom of the authentication selection screen, a cancel button (68) for canceling the operation, a usage method button (74) for instructing an explanation of the usage method, and a language button (67) are displayed.

[0050] Since the payment method for cargo deposit varies depending on the user, the user taps one of the appropriate buttons (71~73).

[0051] Here, when the IC card button (71) is tapped, the control device (30) transitions the display of the display unit (22) from the authentication selection screen to the "authentication execution screen" shown in FIG. 5. On this authentication execution screen, text, illustrations, and tappable virtual buttons (60) are displayed. At the top of this authentication execution screen, the text "IC Card Authentication" is displayed. Also, in the middle of this authentication execution screen, an illustration prompting the operation of an authentication means corresponding to one selected authentication method and an explanatory text are displayed. That is, in the middle of this authentication execution screen, an explanatory text stating "Please touch the IC card to the payment terminal" and an illustration indicating it are displayed. Also, at the bottom of this authentication execution screen, a cancel button (68) and a return button (70) are displayed.

[0052] Meanwhile, when the QR code button (72) is tapped, the control device (30) transitions the display of the display unit (22) to the "authentication execution screen" shown in FIG. 6. On this authentication execution screen, text, illustrations, and tappable virtual buttons (60) are displayed. At the top of this authentication execution screen, the text "QR code authentication" is displayed. Also, in the middle of this authentication execution screen, an explanatory text "Please place the QR code against the scanner" and an illustration indicating it are displayed. Also, at the bottom of this authentication execution screen, a cancel button (68) and a return button (70) are displayed.

[0053] Additionally, when the number input button (73) is tapped, the control device (30) transitions the display of the display unit (22) to the "authentication execution screen" shown in FIG. 7. On this authentication execution screen, text, illustrations, and a tappable virtual button (60) are displayed. At the top of this authentication execution screen, the text "Number authentication" is displayed. Also, in the middle of this authentication execution screen, an explanatory text "Please enter a 6-digit reservation number", a ten-key button (75) as an authentication means for entering the number, a small display unit (76) for displaying the entered number, and a confirmation button (69) are displayed. Also, at the bottom of this authentication execution screen, a cancel button (68) and a return button (70) are displayed.

[0054] The user performs authentication according to the authentication method corresponding to one of the three authentication execution screens selected above.

[0055] Here, it is assumed that the user has performed "IC card authentication" following the authentication screen shown in FIG. 5, for example. In this case, the control device (30) transitions the display of the display unit (22) from the authentication screen to the "box selection screen" shown in FIG. 8. On this box selection screen, text, illustrations, and tappable virtual buttons (60) are displayed. At the top of this box selection screen, an explanatory text saying "Please select the box from which to retrieve luggage" is displayed. In the middle of this box selection screen, an illustration of a locker device and an explanation regarding the color in the illustration are displayed. In the illustration of the locker device, a number corresponding to the box (11, 11a) into which the user has deposited luggage and a selection button (80) that can be operated to select that number are displayed. In this illustration, the box with the number corresponding to each box (11, 11a) is used as the selection button (80). Also, a cancel button (68) and a return button (70) are displayed at the bottom of this box selection screen.

[0056] When a user performs authentication using an IC card, there may be multiple target boxes. In this case, in the illustration of the locker device on the box selection screen shown in FIG. 8, the target boxes are displayed in color (e.g., green or yellow). For example, in FIG. 8, if there are multiple target boxes, the corresponding boxes are displayed in color in the illustration of the locker device (indicated by diagonal lines or a grid in FIG. 8). The user selects the box they wish to unlock by tapping it among the colored boxes. If there is only one target box, the control device (30) skips the display of the box selection screen of FIG. 8.

[0057] In the box selection screen shown in FIG. 8, when the user taps a box among the color boxes that they wish to unlock, and the tap is within "15 minutes" after the cargo has been deposited, the control device (30) transitions the display of the display unit (22) to the "withdrawal confirmation screen" shown in FIG. 9. On this withdrawal confirmation screen, text and a plurality of virtual buttons (60) that can be tapped are displayed. At the top of this withdrawal confirmation screen, the text "Withdrawal Confirmation" and an explanatory text are displayed saying, "Withdrawal within 15 minutes of deposit. If you are depositing cargo again, please press 'Re-deposit cargo', and if you are withdrawing cargo, please press 'Withdrawal as is'." Also, in the middle of this withdrawal confirmation screen, a "Re-deposit cargo" button (78) to instruct to deposit cargo again and a "Withdrawal as is" button (79) to instruct to withdraw cargo as is are displayed. Furthermore, a "Cancel" button (68) is displayed at the bottom of this withdrawal confirmation screen. In this embodiment, the ejection confirmation screen is provided with the assumption that the user, with the intention of putting the item back in, mistakenly taps the ejection button (62) instead of the reopen button (63).

[0058] In this ejection confirmation screen, if the user selectively taps either of the buttons (78, 79), the control device (30) transitions the display of the display unit (22) to the "re-insertion confirmation screen" shown in FIG. 10 or the "first warning screen" shown in FIG. 13. However, in the case of re-extraction even if the cargo is ejected within "15 minutes," the re-insertion confirmation screen and the box unlock screen are not displayed.

[0059] In this retrieval confirmation screen, when the user taps the re-loading button (78), the control device (30) transitions the display of the display unit (22) to the "re-loading confirmation screen" shown in FIG. 10. In this re-loading confirmation screen, text and a plurality of virtual buttons (60) that can be tapped are displayed. In the middle of this re-loading confirmation screen, an explanatory text stating "Re-loading of luggage is possible within 15 minutes of deposit" and a small display unit (76) indicating the elapsed time since deposit are displayed. Also, at the bottom of this re-loading confirmation screen, a cancel button (68) and a confirmation button (69) are displayed.

[0060] Here, when the user taps the confirmation button (69), the control device (30) transitions the display of the display unit (22) to the “box unlock screen” shown in FIG. 11. On this box unlock screen, text, illustrations, and a tappable virtual button (60) are displayed. At the top of this box unlock screen, an explanatory text saying “You can open the door” is displayed, and in the middle of the same screen, text “Box Number 0028” indicating the target box and an illustration of the locker device are displayed. In this case, in the illustration of the locker device, the target box (81) of “0028” flashes in color (e.g., green) (indicated by diagonal lines in FIG. 11). Also, at the bottom of this box unlock screen, an explanatory text urging the operation of the lever (14) after loading the cargo again, and an illustration of the operation of the lever (14) are displayed. That is, at the bottom of this box opening screen, an explanation saying “Please lower the lever after loading the cargo again” and an illustration of the operation of the lever (14) are displayed.

[0061] When this box unlocking screen is displayed, the control device (30) unlocks the locking device (13) of the box (11, 11a) that is actually the target of the locker device (1). The user opens the door (12) of the box (11, 11a), takes out the cargo from the box (11, 11a), closes the door (12), and lowers the lever (14) to the closed side.

[0062] When the lever (14) is lowered to the closed side, the control device (30) transitions the display of the display unit (22) to the "end screen" shown in FIG. 12. In the middle of this end screen, an explanatory message saying "Thank you for using" is displayed. After that, the control device (30) returns the display of the display unit (22) to the standby screen shown in FIG. 3.

[0063] Meanwhile, in the extraction confirmation screen shown in FIG. 9, if the user taps the "Extract as is" button (79), the control device (30) transitions the display of the display unit (22) to the "first warning screen" shown in FIG. 13. On this first warning screen, text and a tappable virtual button (60) are displayed. In the middle of this first warning screen, an explanatory text is displayed saying, "If you perform extraction, this box will be closed for use, is that okay?" Also, at the bottom of this first warning screen, a confirmation button (69) and a return button (70) are displayed.

[0064] When the user taps the confirmation button (69) on this first warning screen, the control device (30) transitions the display of the display unit (22) to the "second warning screen" shown in FIG. 14. On this second warning screen, text and a virtual button (60) that can be tapped are displayed. In the middle of this second warning screen, an explanatory text is displayed saying, "If you tap 'Confirm', the cargo will be treated as unloaded, and we will not be held responsible for any loss of the cargo. Are you sure?" Also, at the bottom of this second warning screen, a confirmation button (69) and a return button (70) are displayed.

[0065] In the second warning screen shown in FIG. 14, when the user taps the confirmation button (69), the control device (30) displays the display unit (22) as the “box unlock screen” shown in FIG. 15. On this box unlock screen, text and an illustration that can be tapped are displayed. At the top of this box unlock screen, an explanatory text saying “You can open the door” is displayed. In the middle of this box unlock screen, text “Box number 0028” indicating the target box (81) and an illustration of a locker device are displayed. In this case, in the illustration of the locker device on this box unlock screen, the target box (81) with “0028” flashes in color (e.g., green) (indicated by a diagonal line in FIG. 15). Also, at the bottom of this box unlock screen, an explanatory text saying “Please remove the cargo from the box where the lamp is flashing” is displayed.

[0066] The flashing box (81) in the illustration of the locker device displayed on the box unlocking screen shown in FIG. 15 corresponds to an example of the “cargo lamp” of the present disclosure, which operates to indicate whether there is cargo in the actual box (11, 11a). When this box unlocking screen is displayed, the control device (30) unlocks the locking device (13) to open the door (12) of the box (11, 11a) containing cargo when the ejection button (62) is operated by the user, and then the door (12) is closed and, based on the detection result of the cargo sensor (40), determines that there is cargo in the box (11, 11a), the locking device (13) is unlocked. Additionally, the control device (30) flashes the corresponding box (81) (cargo lamp) in the illustration of the locker device while it is determined that there is cargo in the target box (11, 11a) based on the detection result of the cargo sensor (40) after the ejection button (62) is operated by the user. On the other hand, when the control device (30) determines that there is no cargo in the box (11, 11a) based on the detection result of the cargo sensor (40), it does not flash the corresponding box (81) in the illustration of the locker device and controls the locking device (13) to be locked by closing the door (12) of the corresponding box (11).

[0067] Then, when the door (12) of the box (11) from which the user has retrieved the cargo is closed, the control device (30) transitions the display of the display unit (22) to the "end screen" shown in FIG. 16. In the middle of this end screen, an explanatory message saying "Thank you for your use. We look forward to your use again" is displayed. After that, the control device (30) returns the display of the display unit (22) to the standby screen shown in FIG. 3.

[0068] [Regarding the operation and effects of the rocker device]

[0069] According to the configuration of the locker device (1) of the present embodiment described above, in the operation of the “cargo extraction mode,” the control device (30) unlocks the locking device (13) to open the door (12) of the box (11, 11a) containing the cargo when the extraction button (62) of the standby screen shown in FIG. 3 is operated by the user, and then the door (12) is closed, and when it is determined that there is cargo in the box (11, 11a) based on the detection result of the cargo sensor (40), the locking device (13) is kept unlocked.

[0070] Therefore, when a user takes out cargo from a box (11, 11a) into which cargo has been deposited, even if a subsequent user accidentally deposits cargo into the box (11, 11a) and closes the door (12), the locking device (13) is not locked. Because of this, it is possible to prevent the door (12) from being locked even if a subsequent user accidentally attempts to deposit cargo into the box (11, 11a) from which the previous user took out cargo. As a result, it is possible to prevent accidental deposit of cargo into the box (11, 11a) by a subsequent user, and it is possible to avoid security issues regarding the deposited cargo.

[0071] In addition, in the above case, the user who attempts to deposit cargo by mistake performs the cargo deposit operation according to the transition screen of the display unit (22) at the control unit (20). However, since there is cargo in the box (11, 11a) to be used, the control device (30) cannot recognize the box (11, 11a) as an empty box based on the detection result of the cargo sensor (40), and does not permit the deposit of cargo into the said box (11, 11a). Upon receiving this, the user selects another empty box (11, 11a) and the flow proceeds to deposit cargo again.

[0072] According to the configuration of the present embodiment, in the operation of the “cargo extraction mode,” the control device (30) is configured to flash the box (81) in the illustration of the locker device in the box unlocking screen shown in FIG. 15 while determining that there is cargo in the target box (11, 11a) based on the detection result of the cargo sensor (40) after the extraction button (62) is operated by the user.

[0073] Therefore, even if a subsequent user accidentally deposits cargo into the box (11, 11a), the subsequent user is notified of the accidental deposit. Because of this, it is possible for the subsequent user to recognize the accidental deposit of cargo early and take action.

[0074] According to the configuration of the present embodiment, in the operation of the "cargo extraction mode," the control device (30) records and manages the status of the boxes (11, 11a) in use and the boxes (11, 11a) not in use, and also manages the reception and recording of usage reservations from the communication unit (50) for the boxes (11, 11a) not in use. Additionally, the control device (30) is configured to stop receiving usage reservations from the communication unit (50) for the boxes (11, 11a) where it is determined that there is cargo based on the detection result of the cargo sensor (40).

[0075] According to the above configuration, the control device (30) manages the usage status of the box (11, 11a) and manages the receipt and recording of usage reservations for unused boxes (11, 11a). Here, when a user retrieves cargo from a box (11, 11a) into which cargo has been deposited, the box (11, 11a) appears to be empty for now. However, the control device (30) stops accepting usage reservations for boxes (11, 11a) that are determined to contain cargo based on the detection result of the cargo sensor (40). Therefore, when a user retrieves cargo from a box (11, 11a), if a subsequent user accidentally deposits cargo into that box (11, 11a) and another user attempts to make a usage reservation for that box (11, 11a) at the same timing, the reservation is not accepted. For this reason, even if a subsequent user accidentally deposits cargo into a box (11, 11a) from which a previous user has taken cargo, it is possible to prevent another user from reserving the box (11, 11a). As a result, for example, even if a subsequent user leaves cargo in the box (11, 11a), it is possible to avoid another user who has reserved the box (11, 11a) opening the door (12), thereby avoiding security issues regarding abandoned cargo.

[0076] According to the configuration of the present embodiment, in the transition screen when performing the “cargo extraction mode,” the “first warning screen” shown in FIG. 13 and the “second warning screen” shown in FIG. 14 are provided between the termination screen shown in FIG. 12 and the box unlock screen shown in FIG. 15, so it is possible to handle the operation error of the virtual button (60) in the extraction confirmation screen shown in FIG. 9. That is, in the extraction confirmation screen shown in FIG. 9, if the user mistakenly operates the “put cargo back in” button (78) but instead operates the “extract as is” button (79) while trying to operate the “put cargo back in” button (78), it is possible to prevent the use of the box (11, 11a) from being terminated against the user's intention.

[0077] <Second Embodiment>

[0078] Next, a second embodiment will be described. In addition, in the following description, components equivalent to those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted, while the focus is on the differences.

[0079] In this embodiment, it differs from the first embodiment in terms of the content of the transition screen displayed on the display unit (22) when the “cargo extraction mode” is executed. That is, in the first embodiment, between the end screen shown in FIG. 12 and the box unlock screen shown in FIG. 15, the “first warning screen” shown in FIG. 13 and the “second warning screen” shown in FIG. 14 were provided. In contrast, in this embodiment, the “first warning screen” shown in FIG. 13 and the “second warning screen” shown in FIG. 14 are removed from the series of transition screens shown in FIG. 3 to FIG. 16, and instead, the “warning screen” shown in FIG. 17 is provided between the “box selection screen” shown in FIG. 8 and the “extraction confirmation screen” shown in FIG. 9.

[0080] In the warning screen shown in FIG. 17, text and a tap-operable virtual button (60) are displayed. In the middle of this warning screen, an explanatory text is displayed saying, "Warning: If you remove it as is, the cargo will be treated as removed. If you leave the cargo inside, there is a possibility that it will be stolen by a third party. Are you sure?" Also, at the bottom of this warning screen, a confirmation button (69) and a return button (70) are displayed.

[0081] According to the configuration of the present embodiment, unlike the first embodiment, in the transition screen when performing the “cargo extraction mode,” the “first warning screen” shown in FIG. 13 and the “second warning screen” shown in FIG. 14 are removed from the series of transition screens, and instead, the “warning screen” shown in FIG. 17 is provided between the “box selection screen” shown in FIG. 8 and the “extraction confirmation screen” shown in FIG. 9, so that confusion between the operation of the “put cargo back in” button (78) and the “extract as is” button (79) in the extraction confirmation screen shown in FIG. 9 can be prevented.

[0082] <Other embodiments>

[0083] Furthermore, the present disclosed technology is not limited to the above embodiments, and may be implemented by appropriately modifying parts of the configuration within the scope of not departing from the spirit of the disclosed technology.

[0084] (1) In the above embodiment, the locker device (1) is designed so that the user depositing the cargo and the user taking out the cargo are the same person. However, it is also possible to design a case where the user depositing the cargo and the user taking out the cargo are different people. Specifically, since the idea of ​​using railway stations as logistics hubs has become widespread in recent years, it is possible to imagine that a carrier delivering goods ordered by general consumers becomes the user depositing the cargo, and the general consumer who ordered the goods becomes the user taking out the cargo. In this case, for example, a specific carrier is made able to use the locker device (1), and after the carrier is authenticated at the control unit (20), the deposit program (32a) is operated. Authentication during item extraction may be performed by, for example, transmitting an authentication mark such as an authentication QR code (registered trademark) to a general consumer's mobile terminal, and then operating the extraction program (32b) after performing authentication of said mark.

[0085] (2) In the above embodiment, the box (81) in the illustration of the locker device displayed on the box unlocking screen shown in FIG. 15 is used as an example of a “cargo lamp.” In addition, for example, it is possible to provide a dedicated lamp as a “cargo lamp” in the operating part (20) shown in FIG. 1.

[0086] (3) In the above embodiment, as an example, it was embodied in a locker device (1) installed in a station premises, but it is not limited to this, and for example, it may be a delivery box installed in a multi-unit building, etc. Industrial applicability

[0087] This disclosed technology can be used, for example, in locker devices installed in station premises. Explanation of the symbols

[0088] 1. Rocker device 11 boxes 11a small box 12 questions 13 Fixing device 20 Control Panel 30 control unit 40 cargo sensor 50 Communication Department (Reservation reception method) 62 eject button 81 Box (cargo lamp) in the illustration of the locker device

Claims

Claim 1 A locker device comprising: a box capable of accommodating cargo; a door for opening and closing the box; a locking device for locking the door so as to be unlockable; an operating unit for receiving operation by a user; and a control device for controlling the locking device according to operation of the operating unit by a user, wherein the control device is configured to lock the locking device to lock the door in a closed state except when depositing cargo into the box and when removing cargo from the box, wherein the box is provided with a cargo sensor for detecting cargo inside the box, and the operating unit includes an ejection button operated by a user to remove cargo from the box into which the cargo has been deposited, and wherein the control device implements a cargo ejection mode when the ejection button is operated by the user, and in the cargo ejection mode, unlocks the locking device to open the door of the box into which the cargo has been deposited, and thereafter, when the door is closed, determines that there is cargo inside the box based on the detection result of the cargo sensor. A locker device characterized by maintaining the locking device unlocked when present, thereby preventing the door from being locked even if a subsequent user attempts to deposit cargo into the box, and locking the locking device when it is determined that there is no cargo in the box based on the detection result of the cargo sensor. Claim 2 A rocker device according to claim 1, further comprising a cargo lamp that operates to indicate the presence or absence of the cargo in the box, wherein the control device lights up or flashes the cargo lamp while it is determined that the cargo is in the target box based on the detection result of the cargo sensor after the ejection button is operated by the user. Claim 3 A locker device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a reservation receiving means for receiving a reservation for use of the box, wherein the control device is configured to record and manage the status of the box in use and the box in use, and to manage the receipt and recording of a reservation for use from the reservation receiving means for the box in use, and wherein the control device stops receiving a reservation for use from the reservation receiving means for the box in which it is determined that there is cargo based on the detection result of the cargo sensor.

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