Management system, management device, management method, and management program

Abstract

The management system (1) according to the present application is characterized by including: a first management unit (131) that manages product information indicating a nonwoven fabric product, user information related to a user who uses the nonwoven fabric product, and facility information indicating a facility where the user uses the nonwoven fabric product; an estimation unit (132) that estimates a number of the nonwoven fabric product used in the facility, i.e., a use number, based on the product information and the user information corresponding to facility information indicating a prescribed facility; a decision unit (133) that decides a number of the nonwoven fabric product to be distributed to the facility based on a stock number of the nonwoven fabric product in the prescribed facility and the estimated use number; and a second management unit (134) that manages recovery information related to the nonwoven fabric product that is recovered from the facility after being used in the prescribed facility as a recycling target.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a management system, a management device, a management method, and a management procedure. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, a service has been developed to provide nonwoven products such as diapers and wet wipes to users in locations outside the home, such as daycare centers. As an example of such technology, there is a known technique that uses a barcode attached to the diaper to determine the number of diapers each user needs for ordering insufficient quantities, and a technique that automatically requests usage fees.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-058759

[0006] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-036846

[0007] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-090956 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0009] However, the aforementioned technologies sometimes fail to achieve efficient resource utilization.

[0010] For example, since most nonwoven products utilize cotton and pulp, it is thought that promoting recycling can reduce environmental impact. In recent years, recycling technologies for various nonwoven products have continuously improved, leading to the idea that recycling products such as diapers and wet wipes can achieve efficient resource utilization. However, the aforementioned existing technologies do not include processing related to the recycling of used nonwoven products, thus failing to promote recycling and consequently hindering efficient resource utilization.

[0011] This application is made in view of the above circumstances and its purpose is to achieve the effective use of resources.

[0012] Solution for solving the problem

[0013] The management device involved in this application is characterized by comprising: a first management unit that manages product information representing nonwoven fabric products, user information related to users of the nonwoven fabric products, and facility information representing the facilities where the users utilize the nonwoven fabric products; an estimation unit that estimates the quantity of nonwoven fabric products used in the facility, i.e., the utilization quantity, based on the product information and user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility; a decision unit that determines the quantity of nonwoven fabric products to be delivered to the facility based on the inventory quantity of nonwoven fabric products in the specified facility and the estimated utilization quantity; and a second management unit that manages recycling information related to nonwoven fabric products that have been used in the specified facility and then recycled from the facility as objects of recycling.

[0014] The effects of the invention

[0015] According to one method of implementation, the efficient utilization of resources can be achieved. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates an example of the management processes performed by the management system 1 involved in the implementation method.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the management system 1 involved in the implementation method.

[0018] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a contractor database involved in an implementation method.

[0019] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a facility database involved in an implementation method.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a recycling information database involved in an implementation method.

[0021] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the management process performed by the management device 100 according to the implementation method.

[0022] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the management process performed by the management device 100 according to the implementation method.

[0023] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware structure. Detailed Implementation

[0024] From the description in this specification and the accompanying drawings, at least the following become clear.

[0025] A management system is characterized by comprising: a first management unit that manages product information representing nonwoven fabric products, user information relating to users of the nonwoven fabric products, and facility information representing the facilities where the users utilize the nonwoven fabric products; an estimation unit that estimates the quantity of nonwoven fabric products used in a facility, i.e., the utilization quantity, based on the product information and user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility; a decision unit that determines the quantity of nonwoven fabric products to be delivered to the specified facility based on the inventory quantity of nonwoven fabric products in the specified facility and the estimated utilization quantity; and a second management unit that manages recycling information relating to nonwoven fabric products that have been used in the specified facility and subsequently recycled from the facility as objects of recycling.

[0026] According to such a management system, product information representing nonwoven fabric products, user information related to users of nonwoven fabric products, and facility information representing the facilities used by users of nonwoven fabric products are managed accordingly. For example, the management system manages user information received by users, facility information related to the facilities used by users, and product information representing nonwoven fabric products in a corresponding manner, using services pre-subscribed by users.

[0027] Furthermore, the management system estimates the quantity of nonwoven products used in the facility, i.e., the utilization quantity, based on product information and user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility. For example, the management system estimates the quantity of nonwoven products used in the facility, i.e., the utilization quantity, based on product information and user information related to nonwoven products such as diapers and wet wipes. Moreover, the management system determines the quantity of nonwoven products to be delivered to the facility based on the inventory quantity of nonwoven products in the specified facility and the estimated utilization quantity.

[0028] Furthermore, the management system manages recycling information related to nonwoven products that have been used in designated facilities and then recycled from those facilities. For example, the management system collects and recycles used nonwoven products such as diapers and wet wipes from the facilities, thereby generating recycled nonwoven products. In this way, the management system promotes recycling by collecting and recycling used nonwoven products, thereby reducing environmental impact. Thus, the management system enables the efficient use of resources.

[0029] Previously, to avoid running out of stock in facilities, managing the individual usage of fabric sheets for each user was a burden for caregivers. Management systems offer solutions to this problem. For example, a management system can manage user activity on a monthly and facility-by-facility basis. In this way, the management system can calculate the number of fabric sheets used on a monthly and facility-by-facility basis and automatically order nonwoven fabric products.

[0030] Furthermore, the management system estimates and manages the usage of nonwoven fabric products in each facility. This prevents shortages of nonwoven fabric products. Additionally, the management system saves caregivers the labor and time required to manage the number of fabric items used by each user. For example, it reduces the burden on caregivers who need to record names and other management tasks related to the nonwoven fabric products they bring. Moreover, the management system saves caregivers not only the labor and time required to bring in nonwoven fabric products but also the labor and time required to take them away.

[0031] Furthermore, the management system can reduce the workload of childcare workers in managing each child's non-woven fabric products. As a result, the management system can improve user satisfaction with the facility and increase the efficiency of childcare workers. Additionally, the management system can track and manage the difference between discarded and ordered items, thus preventing misuse of services and other forms of unfair exploitation.

[0032] In addition, the management system determines the quantity of recycled products generated using nonwoven products recovered from each facility and the quantity of newly manufactured products generated without using recovered nonwoven products among the nonwoven products delivered to the facilities.

[0033] This management system determines the quantity of recycled products (made from nonwoven fabrics recovered from various facilities) and the quantity of newly manufactured products (made from nonwoven fabrics not using recovered nonwoven fabrics) among the nonwoven products supplied to facilities, thus enabling the provision of appropriate quantities of recycled and newly manufactured products to the facilities. Furthermore, by including recycled products in the distributed nonwoven products, the management system also helps reduce the environmental impact.

[0034] In addition, the management system determines the quantity of recycled products and the quantity of newly manufactured products based on user information corresponding to facility information representing the specified facilities.

[0035] According to such a management system, the quantity of recycled products and nonwoven products is determined based on user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility, thus enabling appropriate inventory management within the facility.

[0036] Furthermore, the management system determines the quantity of the recycled products and the quantity of the newly manufactured products based on the number of users who are the subjects of utilization contracts for newly manufactured products and the number of users who are the subjects of utilization contracts for recycled products among the users represented by the user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facilities.

[0037] According to such a management system, the quantity of recycled products and the quantity of newly manufactured products are determined based on the number of users who are the subjects of utilization contracts for newly manufactured products and the number of users who are the subjects of utilization contracts for recycled products among the users shown in the user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility. Therefore, it is possible to properly manage the quantity of recycled products and the quantity of newly manufactured products supplied to the facility.

[0038] In addition, the management system determines the quantity of the recycled products and the quantity of the nonwoven products based on the number of users who are the subjects of the utilization contracts for the newly manufactured products and the number of users who are the subjects of the utilization contracts for recycled products, which have a lower cost than the utilization contracts for the newly manufactured products.

[0039] According to this management system, the quantities of recycled products and nonwoven fabric products are determined based on the number of users who are entrusting contracts for the use of newly manufactured products and the number of users who are entrusting contracts for the use of recycled products, which have a lower cost than contracts for the use of newly manufactured products. Therefore, the quantities of recycled products and newly manufactured products supplied to the facility can be appropriately managed. Furthermore, by setting the cost of recycled products at a lower level than that of newly manufactured products, the management system can promote an increase in the quantity of recycled products supplied to the facility, thereby also helping to reduce the environmental burden.

[0040] In addition, the management system also has a recycling unit, which is set in each facility for recycling non-woven products recycled from the facility as objects of recycling. The second management unit manages recycling information related to the non-woven products recycled by the recycling unit.

[0041] According to such a management system, there is also a recycling unit, which is set in each facility for recycling nonwoven products recycled from the facility as objects of recycling. A second management unit manages recycling information related to the nonwoven products recycled by the recycling unit, so that the quantity of used nonwoven products as objects of recycling can be properly managed.

[0042] In addition, the management system estimates the number of used nonwoven products recovered from the specified facility based on the number of users represented by the user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility, and outputs information corresponding to the comparison result between the estimated number and the number of used nonwoven products recovered from the specified facility.

[0043] According to such a management system, the second management unit estimates the number of used nonwoven products recycled from the specified facility based on the number of users represented by user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility, and outputs information corresponding to the comparison result between the estimated number and the number of used nonwoven products recycled from the specified facility, thus enabling appropriate management of the number of used nonwoven products as recycling objects.

[0044] In addition, the management system has the function of counting the number of recycled non-woven products.

[0045] With such a management system, the quantity of recycled nonwoven products is counted, thus enabling proper management of the quantity of used nonwoven products that are intended for recycling.

[0046] In addition, the management system estimates the number of nonwoven products used in the specified facility based on the number of users represented by the user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility, and outputs information corresponding to the comparison result between the estimated number and the number of nonwoven products counted by the recycling unit.

[0047] According to such a management system, based on the number of users represented by user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility, the number of nonwoven products used in the specified facility is estimated, and information corresponding to the comparison result between the estimated number and the number of nonwoven products obtained by counting in the recycling unit is output. Therefore, it is possible to properly manage the number of used nonwoven products as recycling objects and the estimated number of used nonwoven products.

[0048] In addition, the management system determines the frequency of recycling used nonwoven products from the facility equipped with the recycling unit based on the number of nonwoven products counted by the recycling unit.

[0049] According to this management system, the frequency of recycling used nonwoven products from facilities equipped with recycling units is determined based on the quantity of nonwoven products counted by the recycling units, thus enabling efficient recycling of nonwoven products.

[0050] In addition, the management system has a function to detect foreign objects in the nonwoven fabric product.

[0051] This management system detects foreign objects in nonwoven products, allowing for the selective recycling of only nonwoven products. Thus, the system enables efficient recycling of nonwoven products.

[0052] In addition, the management system has the function of classifying and recycling the nonwoven products by category.

[0053] This management system allows nonwoven products to be categorized and recycled, thus enabling efficient recycling of nonwoven products.

[0054] In addition, the management system sets fees for users of the nonwoven products in the facility based on the period of use related to the use of the nonwoven products.

[0055] This management system sets fees related to the use of nonwoven products for users within the facility, thereby reducing the purchase of unnecessary nonwoven products. As a result, the management system improves the user experience.

[0056] In addition, the management system sets different fees based on the type of facility.

[0057] With such a management system, different fees are set according to the type of facility, thus improving user satisfaction with the facility.

[0058] The following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, details an example of a method (hereinafter referred to as "implementation") for implementing the management system, management device, management method, and management procedure. However, this embodiment is not intended to limit the management system, management device, management method, and management procedure. Furthermore, in the following embodiments, the same reference numerals are used to mark the same parts, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0059] [Implementation Method]

[0060] [1. An example of management processing shown in the management system]

[0061] use Figure 1 This will illustrate an example of the management processing performed by the management system 1 involved in the implementation method. Figure 1 This diagram illustrates an example of the management processes performed by the management system 1 according to the implementation method. Specifically, the management device 100 performs various management processes. More specifically, the management device 100 manages recycling information related to nonwoven products that have been used in the facility and then recycled from the facility as objects of recycling for each facility.

[0062] Furthermore, the facilities mentioned here can be any kind of facility. For example, a facility is a residence for users of non-woven fabric products. For example, a facility is a childcare facility such as a nursery or kindergarten, a nursing home or other care facility, or an assistive facility for the disabled.

[0063] Next, use Figure 1This section describes an example of the management processes performed by the management device 100, following a workflow. Furthermore, in... Figure 1 In the example, we will assume that the user U and the child B are in a parent-child relationship and that the child B attends a daycare center.

[0064] In addition, Figure 1 In the example, user U and caregiver T are identified as users by the management device 100. Therefore, in the following, without distinguishing between user terminal 11 used by user U and user terminal 12 used by caregiver T, they are sometimes collectively referred to as user terminal 10.

[0065] First, such as Figure 1 As shown, the management device 100 determines the contract details related to the service signed by user U (step S1). Furthermore, the service referred to here can be any service. For example, the service could be a service for a user or a facility. For instance, the service could be a service that provides daily necessities for infants and toddlers to a childcare center. Additionally, the service could be provided by the management device 100 or by a server different from the management device 100.

[0066] For example, if the user U's name is "AAA" and the address is "Area A, City B, No. C", the management device 100 determines that the contract content of the user U registered by the user terminal 11 is: the user U's name is "AAA" and the address is "Area A, City B, No. C".

[0067] Next, the caregiver T confirms the inventory quantity of non-woven products managed in the facility (step S2). For example, the caregiver T confirms the diapers and wet wipes stored as inventory. Furthermore, the user terminal 12 receives inventory information, including inventory quantity, from the caregiver T and notifies the management device 100 of the inventory information (step S3).

[0068] Next, child B uses a diaper (step S4). For example, child B takes off the diaper that has been put on with the assistance of caregiver T and puts on a new diaper. At this time, the diaper that has been taken off is a used diaper. In addition, for example, while child B is putting on a new diaper, caregiver T uses a wet wipe to wipe the body that has been soiled due to excretion, etc.

[0069] Then, the caregiver T places the used non-woven fabric products into the recycling bin 20 as recycling objects (step S5). For example, the caregiver T places the used diapers and wet wipes used by child B into the recycling bin 20 as recycling objects. Alternatively, the caregiver T may also place other non-woven fabric products used on child B into the recycling bin 20 as recycling objects. These other non-woven fabric products include, for example, face masks, kitchen paper towels, and tissues.

[0070] Next, the recycling bins 20 count the number of recycled products according to the category of nonwoven fabric products (step S6). Specifically, the recycling bins 20 are installed in each facility to recycle nonwoven fabric products that are recycled from the facility as objects of recycling.

[0071] More specifically, the recycling bin 20 has the function of counting the quantity of non-woven fabric products collected. More specifically, the recycling bin 20 has the function of sorting and recycling non-woven fabric products according to category.

[0072] For example, the recycling bin 20 counts the quantity of diapers and diaper wipes that are classified by type and recycled as recycling objects by detecting the shape, weight and other characteristics of the diapers and diaper wipes.

[0073] Furthermore, the recycling bin 20 can use tags such as RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) attached to diapers to count the quantity by category. Additionally, the recycling bin 20 can have the function of individually packaging each diaper when it is placed inside, thereby preventing leakage of odors or excrement.

[0074] Furthermore, the implementation method is not limited to the examples described above. Specifically, the recycling bin 20 may also have a function to detect foreign objects from non-woven products. For example, if a caregiver T mistakenly puts trash into the recycling bin 20 along with diapers, the recycling bin 20 can detect the trash as a foreign object and classify it separately from the non-woven products. The foreign object referred to here can be any item, such as plastic bags, glass bottles, metal trash, or trash that is difficult to recycle together with non-woven products.

[0075] Furthermore, the detection function of the recycling bin 20 can be achieved through various sensors. The detection function referred to here is any sensor used to detect objects other than non-woven fabric products. For example, the detection function could be a metal detector, a magnetic sensor, an electrical sensor, an optical sensor, or a chemical sensor. Alternatively, the detection function could be a sensor that uses existing technologies such as image analysis. In this way, the recycling bin 20 can detect foreign objects based on the sensor's detection results.

[0076] Furthermore, recycling bin 20 can recycle non-woven products not provided through the service contracted by user U by categorizing them. For example, recycling bin 20 can categorize and recycle non-woven products provided by different companies. Additionally, recycling bin 20 can categorize and recycle non-woven products brought in by users by categorization. Furthermore, the categories of non-woven products include, for example, product category (diapers, wet wipes, etc.), size category (S, M, L, etc.), wearing method category (e.g., adhesive type / shorts type), and product manufacturing company category. In this way, since each non-woven product has different types of non-woven fabric and materials, recycling bin 20 categorizes them for recycling, thereby selecting the most suitable recycling method. Therefore, by categorizing and recycling non-woven products, recycling bin 20 can improve recycling efficiency.

[0077] Furthermore, the recycling bin 20 notifies the management device 100 of the counting results (step S7). For example, if the count of diapers and wet wipes used in the daycare center is "100 pieces" and "200 pieces" respectively, the recycling bin 20 notifies the management device 100 of the counting results for diapers as "100 pieces" and wet wipes as "200 pieces".

[0078] Next, the management device 100 manages the number of contractors, inventory, and recycling (step S8). In this way, the management system 1 reduces the burden on users of management tasks such as recording names of users for the non-woven products they bring. Furthermore, the management system 1 saves users not only the labor and time of bringing in non-woven products, but also the labor and time of taking them away. Additionally, the management system 1 reduces the burden on childcare workers of managing the non-woven products for each child. Therefore, the management system 1 improves user satisfaction with the facility. Moreover, by recycling disposable non-woven products, the management system 1 also helps reduce environmental impact.

[0079] For example, the management device 100 manages product information for diapers and wet wipes, user information related to the protector (user U) of the child B using diapers and wet wipes, and facility information of the childcare center. Furthermore, based on the product information for diapers and wet wipes and the child B using diapers and wet wipes at the childcare center, the management device 100 estimates the quantity of each type of diaper and wet wipe used at that childcare center. Moreover, based on the inventory quantity of diapers and wet wipes stored at the childcare center and the estimated quantity of each type of diaper and wet wipe used, the management device 100 determines the quantity of diapers and wet wipes to be delivered to the childcare center. Additionally, the management device 100 manages recycling information related to diapers and wet wipes used at the childcare center that are designated for recycling and returned to the childcare center.

[0080] Furthermore, the implementation method is not limited to the above example. Specifically, the management device 100 can estimate the quantity of nonwoven products used in the specified facility and the quantity of used nonwoven products recovered from the specified facility based on the number of users indicated by user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility, the estimated quantity of use input by the users, etc., and output information corresponding to the comparison result between the estimated quantity and the quantity of used nonwoven products recovered from the specified facility.

[0081] More specifically, the management device 100 estimates the quantity of used nonwoven products recycled from the designated facility based on the number of users indicated by user information corresponding to the facility information representing the designated facility, and outputs information corresponding to the comparison result between the estimated quantity and the quantity of nonwoven products counted by the recycling bin 20. For example, the management device 100 estimates the quantity of used diapers and wet wipes recycled from the childcare center based on the number of children using the childcare center. Furthermore, the management device 100 can output information related to the quantity of diapers and wet wipes to be delivered to the childcare center, determined based on the comparison result between the estimated quantity and the quantity of diapers and wet wipes counted by the recycling bin 20. For example, if the recycled quantity is more than a predetermined quantity of delivered nonwoven products, the output information indicates that there are more unrecycled nonwoven products; if the difference between the estimated quantity and the recycled quantity is more than a predetermined value, the output information prompts a re-estimation of the estimated quantity (such as a re-estimation of the estimated quantity by each user).

[0082] Specifically, the management device 100 can determine the frequency of recycling non-woven fabric products from the facility equipped with the recycling bin 20 based on the quantity of non-woven fabric products counted through the recycling bin 20. For example, if the quantities of diapers and wet wipes counted through the recycling bin 20 are each above a predetermined threshold, the management device 100 can determine the frequency of recycling diapers and wet wipes from the childcare center as high. On the other hand, if the quantities of diapers and wet wipes counted through the recycling bin 20 are each below a predetermined threshold, the management device 100 can determine the frequency of recycling diapers and wet wipes from the childcare center as low.

[0083] Furthermore, the management device 100 is not limited to the example described above. For instance, if the number of diapers or wet wipes counted by the recycling bin 20 exceeds a predetermined threshold relative to the upper limit of the recycling bin 20, the management device 100 may notify a recycler server (not shown) used by a recycler to prompt recycling, thereby collecting the used diapers and wet wipes from the childcare center. On the other hand, if the number of diapers or wet wipes counted by the recycling bin 20 is less than the predetermined threshold, the management device 100 may determine the frequency of recycling the used diapers and wet wipes from the childcare center to be low (i.e., recycling is temporarily suspended). Additionally, the management device 100 may determine the frequency of recycling used nonwoven products from the facility based on any arbitrary criteria.

[0084] Furthermore, the management device 100 notifies the product supply facility FA1 of the quantity of newly manufactured products and recycled products to be sent to the facility based on the contract terms and inventory quantities (step S9). In this way, the management system 1 is able to appropriately manage the inventory quantities in the facility.

[0085] Specifically, the management device 100 determines the quantity of recycled products generated using nonwoven products recovered from various facilities and the quantity of newly manufactured products generated without using recovered nonwoven products among the nonwoven products delivered to the facilities.

[0086] Specifically, the management device 100 determines the quantity of recycled products and nonwoven products based on user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility. More specifically, the management device 100 determines the quantity of recycled products and new products based on the number of users among those represented by the user information corresponding to the facility information, who are subject to contracts for the use of newly manufactured products and who are subject to contracts for the use of recycled products. More specifically, the management device 100 determines the quantity of recycled products and nonwoven products based on the number of users subject to contracts for the use of new manufactured products and the number of users subject to contracts for the use of recycled products, whose cost is lower than that of contracts for the use of new manufactured products.

[0087] For example, the management device 100 determines the quantity of each type of diaper and wet wipes, which are recycled products, based on the number of children using the childcare center. In this case, the management device 100 determines the quantity of each type of diaper and wet wipes, which are recycled products, based on the number of children of users who have authorized the use of recycled products at the time of signing the contract.

[0088] Next, recycling facility FA2 recycles non-woven products (step S10). For example, recycling facility FA2 dispatches a delivery person to a childcare center to recycle non-woven products, thereby recycling diapers and wet wipes stored in recycling bin 20.

[0089] Furthermore, the recycling facility FA2 recycles the nonwoven fabric products (step S11). For example, the recycling facility FA2 uses various existing technologies to recycle diapers and wet wipes collected from the recycling bin 20. For example, the recycling facility FA2 recycles diapers and wet wipes by combining existing technologies related to washing, decomposing, or reconstituted used diapers and wet wipes.

[0090] Next, recycling facility FA2 provides recycled products to product supply facility FA1 (step S12). In this way, management system 1 promotes recycling by recovering and reusing used nonwoven products, thereby reducing environmental impact. For example, recycling facility FA2 provides recycled products obtained from recycling used diapers and wet wipes to product supply facility FA1 via a distributor.

[0091] Furthermore, the product supply facility FA1 enables the distributor to deliver newly manufactured and recycled products (step S13). For example, the product supply facility FA1 enables the distributor to deliver newly manufactured and recycled products to the childcare center based on the quantity of the newly manufactured and recycled products.

[0092] In this way, the management device 100 according to the embodiment acquires recycling information related to nonwoven fabric products that have been used in the facility and then recycled from the facility. Furthermore, the management device 100 manages the acquired recycling information for each facility. Therefore, the management device 100 according to the embodiment can achieve efficient resource utilization.

[0093] [2. Structure of the Management System]

[0094] Next, use Figure 2 The structure of the management system 1 involved in the implementation method will be explained. Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the management system 1 according to the implementation method. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the management system 1 includes a user terminal 10, a recycling bin 20, a delivery server 30, and a management device 100. The user terminal 10, recycling bin 20, delivery server 30, and management device 100 can be connected via a network N in a wired or wireless manner. Furthermore, Figure 2 The management system 1 shown may include multiple user terminals 10, multiple recycling bins 20, multiple delivery servers 30, and multiple management devices 100. Additionally, the management system 1 may include a recycler server.

[0095] The user terminal 10 involved in the implementation is an information processing device used by a user who accesses web pages, application content, and other content displayed in a browser. For example, the user terminal 10 can be a desktop PC (Personal Computer), a laptop PC, a tablet terminal, a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), etc.

[0096] The recycling bin 20 described in this embodiment is an information processing device that manages the quantity of non-woven fabric products intended for recycling. It may be implemented, for example, by a server equipped with a bin for holding non-woven fabric products or an IoT (Internet of Things) device. For instance, the recycling bin 20 collects used non-woven fabric products as objects for recycling. Furthermore, the recycling bin 20 counts the quantity of recycled non-woven fabric products according to each category and manages information related to the quantity of recycled non-woven fabric products. Alternatively, the recycling bin 20 may only count the quantity of recycled non-woven fabric products, or only detect information such as the quantity of a fixed number of used non-woven fabric products placed into a container for holding used non-woven fabric products, and send the counted information or the detected information to a recycler server. In this case, the recycler server can manage the sent information.

[0097] The delivery server 30 involved in the implementation method is an information processing device used by companies that distribute nonwoven products, such as a server device. For example, the delivery server 30 manages information related to the quantity of newly manufactured and recycled nonwoven products distributed to childcare centers that are the recipients of the distribution.

[0098] The management device 100 involved in the implementation is implemented, for example, by a server device. Specifically, the management device 100 acquires recycling information related to nonwoven fabric products that have been used in the facility and then recycled from the facility as objects of recycling. Moreover, the management device 100 manages the acquired recycling information for each facility.

[0099] [3. Structure of the management device]

[0100] Additionally, using Figure 2 The structure of the management device 100 involved in the implementation method will be explained. Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating a structural example of the management device 100 according to the embodiment. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the management device 100 includes a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130.

[0101] (Regarding the Ministry of Communications' 110)

[0102] The communication unit 110 is implemented, for example, by a NIC (Network Interface Card). Furthermore, the communication unit 110 is connected to the network N via wired or wireless means, and is used to send and receive information between the user terminal 10, the recycling bin 20, and the delivery server 30.

[0103] (Regarding Storage Department 120)

[0104] The storage unit 120 is implemented, for example, by semiconductor storage elements such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or flash memory, or storage devices such as hard disks or optical disks. The storage unit 120 includes a contractor database 121, a facility database 122, and a recycling information database 123.

[0105] (Regarding Contractor Database 121)

[0106] The contractor database 121 involved in the implementation method is used to store information related to users who are contractors. Here, in Figure 3 This represents an example of a contractor database 121 involved in the implementation method. Figure 3In the example shown, the contractor database 121 has items such as "user ID (Identifier)", "contractor information", "facility used", "fee", "age", "number of diapers used", "size", and "number of days spent in the park".

[0107] "User ID" is an identifier used to identify the user. "Contractor Information" is information related to the user corresponding to the "User ID." For example, contractor information includes the contractor's name, the recipient's name, address, or telephone number. "Usage Facilities" is information related to the facilities used by the user corresponding to the "User ID." "Fee" is information related to the fee for the services contracted by the user corresponding to the "User ID."

[0108] "Age" is information related to the age of the individual corresponding to "User ID". "Number of Diapers Used" is information related to the number of diapers used by the individual corresponding to "User ID". "Size" is information related to the size of the individual corresponding to "User ID". "Number of Days Attended" is information related to the number of days since the individual corresponding to "User ID" started attending the kindergarten.

[0109] For example, in Figure 3 In the details, regarding the "UI" identified through the user ID, the contractor information is "Name #1", the facility used is "Facility ID #1", the fee is "5000 yen", the age is "1 year and 5 months", the number of diapers used is "6", the size is "M", and the number of days spent in the park is "5 months". Furthermore, in Figure 3 In the example shown, abstract markers such as "Name #1" represent the contractor information, but the contractor information can also be a specific file format. Furthermore, even when the users are brothers with the same caregiver, there are cases where the user ID, number of days in the park, size, etc., differ, but the contractor is the same.

[0110] In addition, the user information stored in the contract user database 121 can be updated appropriately by the user or the facility manager. For example, the facility manager can update the number of diapers used and the size in the user information.

[0111] (Regarding facilities database 122)

[0112] The facility database 122 involved in the implementation method is used to store information related to the inventory of nonwoven products possessed by the facility, i.e., inventory information. Here, in Figure 4 This represents an example of a facility database 122 involved in the implementation method. Figure 4In the example shown, facility database 122 has items such as “facility ID”, “facility information”, “S”, “M”, “L male”, “L female”, “Big male”, “Big female”, and “buttock wipes”.

[0113] "Facility ID" is an identifier used to identify a facility. "Facility Information" is information related to the facility corresponding to the "Facility ID". For example, facility information includes the facility's name, address, name of the facility manager, number of users, or number of staff. "S" is information related to the inventory quantity of nonwoven fabric product number S corresponding to the "Facility ID". "M" is information related to the inventory quantity of nonwoven fabric product number M corresponding to the "Facility ID".

[0114] "L for Boys" indicates the inventory quantity of size L nonwoven fabric products for boys corresponding to the "Facility ID". "L for Girls" indicates the inventory quantity of size L nonwoven fabric products for girls corresponding to the "Facility ID". "Big for Boys" indicates the inventory quantity of size Big nonwoven fabric products for boys corresponding to the "Facility ID". "Big for Girls" indicates the inventory quantity of size Big nonwoven fabric products for girls corresponding to the "Facility ID". "Butt Wipes" indicates the inventory quantity of butt wipes corresponding to the "Facility ID".

[0115] For example, in Figure 4 In this context, regarding "Facility ID#1" identified by Facility ID, the facility information is "Facility Information#1," S represents "20 packs," M represents "50 packs," L (male) represents "10 packs," L (female) represents "10 packs," Big (male) represents "3 packs," Big (female) represents "3 packs," and diaper wipes represent "200 packs." Furthermore, a pack indicates multiple units of diapers or diaper wipes. For example, one pack contains 50 diapers or diaper wipes. Additionally, the unit for the quantity of diapers or diaper wipes in stock can be any unit.

[0116] In addition, Figure 4 In the example shown, facility information is represented by the abstract label "Facility Information #1," but facility information can also be a specific name, including a file format with that specific name. Furthermore, the inventory information stored in the facility database 122 can be updated appropriately by facility staff or facility managers, or it can be updated by the management device 100.

[0117] (Regarding the recycling information database 123)

[0118] The recycling information database 123 involved in the implementation method is used to store information related to the quantity of nonwoven products recycled as objects of recycling. Here, in Figure 5The image shows an example of the recycling information database 123 involved in the implementation method. Figure 5 In the example shown, the recycling information database 123 has items such as "Facility ID", "Facility Information", "S", "M", "L Male", "L Female", "Big Male", "Big Female", and "Buttock Wipes".

[0119] "Facility ID" is an identifier used to identify the facility. "Facility Information" contains information related to the facility corresponding to the "Facility ID". "S" contains information related to the quantity of nonwoven products of size S corresponding to the "Facility ID" that were recovered. "M" contains information related to the quantity of nonwoven products of size M corresponding to the "Facility ID" that were recovered.

[0120] "L for Boys" refers to the number of non-woven fabric products in size L for boys that were returned, corresponding to the "Facility ID". "L for Girls" refers to the number of non-woven fabric products in size L for girls that were returned, corresponding to the "Facility ID". "Big for Boys" refers to the number of non-woven fabric products in size Big for boys that were returned, corresponding to the "Facility ID". "Big for Girls" refers to the number of non-woven fabric products in size Big for girls that were returned, corresponding to the "Facility ID". "Butt Wipes" refers to the number of butt wipes that were returned, corresponding to the "Facility ID".

[0121] For example, in Figure 5 In the document, regarding "Facility ID#1" identified by Facility ID, the facility information is "Facility Information#1", S is "10 wipes", M is "30 wipes", L male is "1 wipe", L female is "0 wipes", Big male is "0 wipes", Big female is "0 wipes", and buttock wipes are "80 wipes".

[0122] (Regarding Control Department 130)

[0123] The control unit 130 is a controller, which is implemented, for example, by executing various programs (equivalent to a management program) stored in the internal storage device of the management device 100 using RAM as the working area, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Micro Processing Unit). Alternatively, the control unit 130 can be implemented as a controller, for example, by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0124] like Figure 2As shown, the control unit 130 includes a first management unit 131, an estimation unit 132, a decision unit 133, a second management unit 134, and a setting unit 135, and performs or executes the information processing functions and roles described below. Furthermore, the internal structure of the control unit 130 is not limited to... Figure 2 The structure shown can also be any other structure for performing the information processing described later. Furthermore, the connection relationships of the various processing units within the control unit 130 are not limited to... Figure 2 The connection relationships shown can also be other connection relationships.

[0125] (Regarding the First Management Department 131)

[0126] The First Management Department 131 manages various types of information. Specifically, the First Management Department 131 manages product information related to nonwoven fabric products, user information related to users of nonwoven fabric products, and facility information related to facilities where users utilize nonwoven fabric products. For example, the First Management Department 131 manages product information related to diapers and wet wipes, user information related to the caregiver (user U) of toddler B who uses diapers and wet wipes, and facility information of daycare centers.

[0127] (Regarding the estimation department 132)

[0128] The estimation unit 132 estimates various types of information. Specifically, the estimation unit 132 estimates the quantity of nonwoven products used in the facility, i.e., the usage quantity, based on product information and user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility. For example, the estimation unit 132 estimates the usage quantity of diapers and wet wipes in the nursery based on product information of diapers and wet wipes and the child B who uses diapers and wet wipes in the nursery.

[0129] (Regarding Decision 133)

[0130] The decision-making unit 133 determines various information. Specifically, the decision-making unit 133 determines the quantity of nonwoven products to be delivered to the facility based on the inventory quantity of nonwoven products in the designated facility and the estimated usage quantity. For example, the decision-making unit 133 determines the quantity of diapers and wet wipes to be delivered to the nursery based on the inventory quantity of diapers and wet wipes stored in the nursery and the estimated usage quantity of diapers and wet wipes.

[0131] In addition, specifically, the decision-making department 133 decides the quantity of recycled products generated from nonwoven products recovered from each facility and the quantity of newly manufactured products generated without using recovered nonwoven products among the nonwoven products delivered to the facilities.

[0132] Furthermore, specifically, the decision-making unit 133 determines the quantity of recycled products and nonwoven products based on user information corresponding to the facility information indicating the specified facilities. More specifically, the decision-making unit 133 determines the quantity of recycled products and new products based on the number of users among those indicated in the user information corresponding to the facility information, who are subject to contracts for the use of newly manufactured products and who are subject to contracts for the use of recycled products. More specifically, the decision-making unit 133 determines the quantity of recycled products and nonwoven products based on the number of users subject to contracts for the use of new manufactured products and the number of users subject to contracts for the use of recycled products, whose cost is lower than that of contracts for the use of new manufactured products.

[0133] For example, the decision-making unit 133 determines the quantity of each type of diaper and wet wipe as recycled products based on the number of children using the childcare center. In this case, the decision-making unit 133 determines the quantity of each type of diaper and wet wipe based on the number of children among the children using the childcare center who have permitted the use of recycled products at the time of signing the contract.

[0134] (Regarding the Second Management Department 134)

[0135] The Second Management Department 134 manages various types of information. Specifically, the Second Management Department 134 manages recycling information related to non-woven fabric products that are recycled from the facilities after being used in the designated facilities. For example, the Second Management Department 134 manages recycling information related to diapers and wet wipes that are recycled from childcare centers after being used in them.

[0136] Furthermore, the second management unit 134 is not limited to the above example. Specifically, the second management unit 134 estimates the number of used nonwoven products recycled from the specified facility based on the number of users indicated by user information corresponding to the facility information indicating the specified facility, and outputs information corresponding to the comparison result between the estimated number and the number of used nonwoven products recycled from the specified facility.

[0137] More specifically, the second management unit 134 estimates the number of diapers and diaper wipes of each size used in the designated facility per month based on the number of users and the number of diapers used, as indicated by the user information corresponding to the facility information. Furthermore, the second management unit 134 calculates the actual number of diapers and diaper wipes of each size used in the designated facility per month based on the number of diapers of each size collected in the recycling bin 20 per month. Moreover, the second management unit 134 outputs information corresponding to the comparison result between the estimated number of diapers and diaper wipes of each size and the calculated number of diapers and diaper wipes of each size. For example, if the difference between the estimated number of size M diapers used and the calculated number of used diapers exceeds a specified amount, the second management unit 134 can determine that there is a discrepancy between the estimated amount and the actual amount used, and prompts confirmation of the number of diapers used as managed user information with the message, "The number of size M diapers used may not match the actual situation. Please check."

[0138] Furthermore, the second management department 134 can compare inventory quantities, delivery quantities, and calculated usage quantities. For example, the second management department 134 records the following: Regarding size M diapers, the inventory at the end of last month was 1 pack, and 3 packs were delivered. Moreover, with an inventory of 1 pack at the end of this month, the second management department 134 can calculate that the number of diapers used this month is 150. On the other hand, if the estimated number of size M diapers used, calculated based on the information from the recycling bin 20, is 100, the second management department 134 determines that 50 diapers may have been improperly used. In this way, by managing the number of recycled diapers, the second management department 134 can detect usage outside the facility (e.g., usage outside of daycare centers), thus preventing improper use.

[0139] Specifically, the second management unit 134 can determine the frequency of recycling non-woven fabric products from the facility equipped with the recycling bin 20 based on the quantity of non-woven fabric products counted through the recycling bin 20. For example, if the quantities of diapers and wet wipes counted through the recycling bin 20 are each above a predetermined threshold, the second management unit 134 can determine the frequency of recycling diapers and wet wipes from the childcare center as high frequency. On the other hand, if the quantities of diapers and wet wipes counted through the recycling bin 20 are each below the predetermined threshold, the second management unit 134 can determine the frequency of recycling diapers and wet wipes from the childcare center as low frequency.

[0140] Furthermore, the second management department 134 can predict the timing or frequency at which the maximum capacity of the recycling bin 20 will be reached by analyzing the quantity during the management period. For example, if the maximum capacity of the recycling bin 20 is set at 100 kg and the average daily increase over the past 5 days is 10 kg, the maximum capacity will be reached in 10 days. Therefore, the second management department 134 can decide to recycle every 8 days. Additionally, various factors such as seasonal changes (reduced visitor numbers due to summer vacation, year-end / New Year's, or flu season), changes in the day of the week (increase or decrease in users due to Saturday childcare or extended childcare), and changes within each facility (increase or decrease due to events or holidays) can affect the increase or decrease in recycling volume. Therefore, the second management department 134 can use learning models generated based on existing technologies such as machine learning to predict the increase. Furthermore, regarding the decision on the distribution volume, the second management department 134 can decide not only based on the number of diapers used stored in the user information, but also by using a learning model to predict the number of diapers used to determine the distribution volume.

[0141] Furthermore, the second management unit 134 is not limited to the above example. For instance, if the number of diapers or wet wipes counted by the recycling bin 20 exceeds a predetermined threshold relative to the upper limit of the recycling bin 20, the second management unit 134 notifies the recycler server to prompt recycling, thereby ensuring that used diapers and wet wipes are recycled from the childcare center. On the other hand, if the number of diapers or wet wipes counted by the recycling bin 20 is less than the predetermined threshold, the second management unit 134 can determine the frequency of recycling used diapers and wet wipes from the childcare center as low. Additionally, the second management unit 134 can determine the frequency of recycling used nonwoven products from the facility based on any arbitrary criteria.

[0142] (Regarding Setting Section 135)

[0143] The setting unit 135 sets various fees. Specifically, the setting unit 135 sets fees related to the use of nonwoven products in the facility, based on the period requested. Furthermore, the fees requested based on the period can be fees requested through any usage method. For example, fees requested based on the period are based on usage methods such as requesting services corresponding to the period, i.e., monthly or annual service fees. For example, fees requested based on seasonal changes such as summer holidays / year-end / year-end, childcare time / days such as holidays / extended childcare / Saturday childcare, or the number of years of use (continuous use), etc. Additionally, the setting unit 135 can set different fees depending on the type of facility.

[0144] For example, the setting unit 135 does not calculate the cost related to the use of diapers and wet wipes based on the actual number of diapers used. Instead, it sets a fixed cost for each specified period, such as a monthly cost or a yearly cost. Furthermore, for example, in the case of infants and young children, there is a tendency for older users to use fewer diapers. Therefore, the setting unit 135 can also adjust the cost for the same period based on age (for example, setting a lower cost for older users).

[0145] Furthermore, for example, when users use diapers and wet wipes in both regular daycare centers and daycare centers for children with disabilities, the setting unit 135 sets a fee related to the use of diapers and wet wipes for each specified period. In this case, the setting unit 135 can set the fee set in daycare centers for children with disabilities to be lower than the fee set in regular daycare centers.

[0146] [4. Processing procedure (1)]

[0147] Next, use Figure 6 The process of management processing performed by the management device 100 involved in the implementation method will be explained. Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the management process performed by the management device 100 according to the implementation method.

[0148] like Figure 6 As shown, the first management unit 131 determines the estimated timing for estimating the quantity of nonwoven fabric products (step S101). Furthermore, if the first management unit 131 does not determine that it is an estimated timing (step S101; "No"), it remains in standby mode until it is determined that it is an estimated timing.

[0149] On the other hand, if the first management unit 131 determines that the estimation time is right (step S101; "Yes"), it selects the facility as the target (step S102). Then, the estimation unit 132 calculates the quantity of nonwoven products used in the selected facility (step S103).

[0150] Then, the decision-making unit 133 determines the inventory quantity of nonwoven products in the selected facility (step S104). Then, the decision-making unit 133 determines the quantity of newly manufactured products and the quantity of recycled products to be delivered based on the content of the utilization contracts of each user (step S105). Then, the first management unit 131 notifies the supplier of the quantity of newly manufactured products and the quantity of recycled products determined by the decision-making unit 133 (step S106).

[0151] [5. Processing procedure (2)]

[0152] Next, use Figure 7The process of management processing performed by the management device 100 involved in the implementation method will be explained. Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the management process performed by the management device 100 according to the implementation method.

[0153] like Figure 7 As shown, the second management unit 134 determines the management timing for the recycling of nonwoven fabric products (step S201). Furthermore, if the second management unit 134 does not determine that it is a management timing (step S201; "No"), it remains in standby mode until it is determined that it is a management timing.

[0154] On the other hand, when the second management unit 134 determines that it is time to manage (step S201; "Yes"), it selects the facility as the target (step S202). Then, the second management unit 134 obtains the quantity of non-woven fabric products recycled as recycling targets from the recycling bin 20 provided at the selected facility, according to product category (step S203). Then, the second management unit 134 manages the selected facility by corresponding the facility ID with the quantity of each non-woven fabric product (step S204).

[0155] [6. Variations]

[0156] The management device 100 described above can also be implemented in various ways other than those described above. Therefore, other embodiments of the management device 100 will be described below.

[0157] [6-1. Product]

[0158] In the above embodiment, an example of the management process for non-woven fabric products was described with respect to the management device 100, but it is not limited to the above example. For example, the management device 100 can also manage other daily necessities besides non-woven fabric products. For example, the management device 100 can manage masks or wet wipes. In addition, the management device 100 can also manage any items other than daily necessities. For example, the management device 100 can manage swim underwear worn by young children while swimming.

[0159] [6-2. Facilities]

[0160] In the above embodiment, the management device 100 is described as an example of the management process for nonwoven products provided through services for childcare centers, but it is not limited to the facilities described above. For example, the management device 100 can manage nonwoven products provided through services for facilities such as nursing homes or assistive facilities for the disabled.

[0161] [6-3. Service]

[0162] In the above embodiments, an example of setting a fee related to the use of nonwoven products based on the period requested is described for the management device 100, but it is not limited to the above setting process. For example, when the management device 100 provides recycled products obtained by recycling nonwoven products provided to the childcare center through services provided to the childcare center, it can set an amount for each specified period for users using the recycled products, after deducting the fees related to the use of diapers and wet wipes.

[0163] Furthermore, for example, when providing recycled products obtained by recycling non-woven products provided through services for nursing homes or assistive facilities for the disabled to childcare centers, the management device 100 can set an amount for each specified period for users of recycled products, further deducting the fees related to the use of diapers and wet wipes compared to the reduction amount for services provided to childcare centers. Additionally, when a contractor registers multiple users (such as siblings of infants, infants and care facility users, etc.), the management device 100 can set an amount lower than the sum of the amounts set for each user for each specified period. Furthermore, the management device 100 can change and set the usage amount for non-woven products during a specified period based on seasonal changes (such as holidays due to year-end / beginning-of-year, summer closures, or flu seasons), the number of care days / hours (extended care, Saturday care, etc.), and the continuous service period.

[0164] Such fee settings can be automatically calculated by the management system 1. For example, the management system 1 can automatically set the amount for each specified period based on the user information input by the contractor, the number of users, the selected products, etc., and output the amount requested from the contractor (e.g., displayed on the user terminal 11).

[0165] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the management system 1 is described as using nonwoven fabric products in the facility, but for example, samples for evaluating nonwoven fabric products may also be provided. In this case, when the management system 1 receives an instruction to provide samples from the user terminal 10 used by the sample provider, such as a manufacturer of nonwoven fabric products, it notifies the user terminal 12 of the facility, which is the recipient of the samples, of the intention to provide samples. In addition, this notification may include information related to the samples, such as the content of the samples, the date of dispatch of the samples, the recipient of the samples (whether it is used by a caregiver or a contractor, etc.), or the method of providing the samples.

[0166] Furthermore, the management system 1 can determine the delivery of a specified quantity of samples to the target facility where samples are to be delivered. Moreover, the management system 1 can notify the delivery server 30 to deliver the samples to the target facility according to the determined delivery details.

[0167] Additionally, childcare worker T can use the samples delivered along with the non-woven fabric products within the facility, or provide samples to contractors (caregivers in the childcare center, etc.). The childcare worker T or contractor using the samples inputs their impressions of the samples into the user terminal 10, or fills out the questionnaire attached to the samples, or inputs the information via links to other content provided with the samples.

[0168] Therefore, regarding management system 1, the sample provider can distribute samples along with the regular distribution of nonwoven products, thus reducing distribution costs (labor costs or other expenses). Furthermore, when the recipient of the sample is a childcare worker (T), management system 1 can collect the sample in the same way as regular nonwoven products, eliminating the need to spend time collecting new samples. Additionally, when the recipient of the sample is a contractor (caregiver), management system 1 can accept the sample when the contractor (caregiver) visits the facility, eliminating the need to spend time collecting new samples.

[0169] Furthermore, when the samples used in the facility are non-woven fabric products, the management system 1 can collect the samples through the recycling bin 20. Therefore, the collected samples can be recycled or sent to the manufacturer for testing of their actual usage. In this case, the management system 1 can classify and recycle the recycled materials according to their intended use through the recycling bin 20. Moreover, the management system 1 can notify the manufacturer of sample collection by detecting sample collection activity through the recycling bin 20.

[0170] [6-4. Others]

[0171] All or part of the processes described above as being performed automatically can also be performed manually. Furthermore, all or part of the processes described as being performed manually can also be performed automatically using known methods. In addition, the processing procedures, specific names, and information including various data and parameters shown in the above documents and figures can be arbitrarily changed unless otherwise stated. For example, the various information shown in the figures is not limited to the information shown in the figures.

[0172] Furthermore, the constituent elements of the devices illustrated are functional concepts and may not be physically arranged as shown in the illustrations. That is, the specific manner in which the devices are distributed / combined is not limited to the manner shown in the illustrations. Additionally, all or part of the constituent elements can be arranged in any functional or physical manner, depending on various loads, utilization conditions, etc. Furthermore, the aforementioned processes can be appropriately combined and executed within the bounds of non-contradiction.

[0173] [7. Hardware Structure]

[0174] Furthermore, the user terminal 10, recycling bin 20, delivery server 30, and management device 100 involved in the above-described embodiments are, for example, through... Figure 8 The computer 1000 is implemented with the structure shown. Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware structure. Computer 1000 is connected to output device 1010 and input device 1020, and arithmetic unit 1030, cache 1040, memory 1050, output IF (Interface) 1060, input IF 1070, and network IF 1080 are connected via bus 1090.

[0175] The arithmetic unit 1030 performs various processes based on programs stored in the cache 1040 and memory 1050, as well as programs read from the input device 1020. The cache 1040 is a temporary storage device, such as RAM, for data used by the arithmetic unit 1030 in performing various operations. The memory 1050 is a storage device for registering data and various databases used by the arithmetic unit 1030 in performing various operations; it is a memory implemented using ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), flash memory, or similar methods.

[0176] Output IF 1060 is an interface for sending information to output devices 1010 that output various information, such as monitors and printers. It can be implemented using standard connectors such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), DVI (Digital Visual Interface), or HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface). On the other hand, input IF 1070 is an interface for receiving information from various input devices 1020, such as mice, keyboards, and scanners. It can be implemented using, for example, USB.

[0177] For example, the input device 1020 can be implemented as a device for reading information from optical recording media such as CD (Compact Disc), DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), PD (Phase Change Rewritable Disk), magneto-optical recording media such as MO (Magneto-Optical Disk), tape media, magnetic recording media, or semiconductor memory. Alternatively, the input device 1020 can be implemented as an external storage medium such as a USB memory.

[0178] The network IF 1080 has the following functions: receiving data from other devices via network N and sending it to the computing device 1030; in addition, sending data generated by the computing device 1030 to other devices via network N.

[0179] Here, the arithmetic unit 1030 controls the output device 1010 and the input device 1020 via the output IF 1060 and the input IF 1070. For example, the arithmetic unit 1030 loads a program from the input device 1020 and the memory 1050 into the cache 1040 and executes the loaded program. For example, when the computer 1000 functions as a management unit 100, the arithmetic unit 1030 of the computer 1000 executes the program loaded into the cache 1040, thereby realizing the function of the control unit 130.

[0180] The embodiments of this application have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these are exemplary, and the embodiments of this application can be implemented in other ways by making various modifications and improvements based on the manner described in the disclosure of the invention and on the knowledge of those skilled in the art. In addition, the term "section, module, unit" mentioned above can be interpreted as "unit," "circuit," etc.

[0181] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0182] N: Network; 1: Management System; 10, 11, 12: User Terminal; 20: Recycling Bin; 30: Delivery Server; 100: Management Device; 110: Communication Unit; 120: Storage Unit; 121: Contractor Database; 122: Facility Database; 123: Recycling Information Database; 130: Control Unit; 131: First Management Unit; 132: Estimation Unit; 133: Decision Unit; 134: Second Management Unit; 135: Setting Unit.

Claims

1. A management system, characterized in that, have: The first management unit manages the product information representing the nonwoven fabric product, the user information related to the user of the nonwoven fabric product, and the facility information representing the facility where the user uses the nonwoven fabric product. The estimation unit estimates the quantity of nonwoven products used in the facility, i.e. the quantity used, based on product information and user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility. The decision-making unit determines the quantity of nonwoven products to be delivered to the facility based on the inventory quantity of nonwoven products in the specified facility and the estimated utilization quantity. as well as The second management unit manages recycling information related to nonwoven products that have been used in the designated facility and then recovered from the facility as recycling objects. The decision unit determines the number of recycled products generated from nonwoven products recovered from each facility and the number of newly manufactured products generated from nonwoven products not using the recovered nonwoven products among the nonwoven products delivered to the facility, based on the number of users who are the subjects of utilization contracts for newly manufactured products and the number of users who are the subjects of utilization contracts for recycled products among the users represented by the user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility.

2. The management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The decision-making unit determines the quantity of the recycled products and the quantity of the nonwoven products based on the number of users who are the subjects of the utilization contracts for the newly manufactured products and the number of users who are the subjects of the utilization contracts for recycled products, which have a lower cost than the utilization contracts for the newly manufactured products.

3. The management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, It also includes a recycling unit, located in each facility, for recycling nonwoven products recovered from the facility as objects of recycling. The second management unit manages recycling information related to the nonwoven products recycled by the recycling unit.

4. The management system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second management unit estimates the number of used nonwoven products recovered from the specified facility based on the number of users represented by the user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility, and outputs information corresponding to the comparison result between the estimated number and the number of used nonwoven products recovered from the specified facility.

5. The management system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The recycling unit has the function of counting the number of recycled non-woven fabric products.

6. The management system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second management unit estimates the number of nonwoven products used in the specified facility based on the number of users represented by the user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility, and outputs information corresponding to the comparison result between the estimated number and the number of nonwoven products counted by the recycling unit.

7. The management system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second management unit determines the frequency of recycling used nonwoven products from the facility equipped with the recycling unit based on the number of nonwoven products counted by the recycling unit.

8. The management system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The recycling unit has a function to detect foreign objects from the nonwoven fabric product.

9. The management system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The recycling unit has the function of classifying and recycling the non-woven fabric products by category.

10. The management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, It also includes a setting unit that sets a fee for the period requested in connection with the use of the nonwoven product by the user of the nonwoven product in the facility.

11. The management system according to claim 10, characterized in that, The setting unit sets different fees based on the type of facility.

12. A management device, characterized in that, have: The Acquisition Department acquires recycling information related to nonwoven products that have been used in the facility and then recycled as objects of recycling. The estimation department estimates the quantity of nonwoven products used in the facility, i.e. the quantity used, based on product information and user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility. The decision-making department, based on the inventory quantity of nonwoven products in the specified facility and the estimated utilization quantity, determines the quantity of nonwoven products to be delivered to the facility; and The management department, which manages the recycling information obtained for each facility, The decision-making unit determines the number of recycled products generated from nonwoven products recovered from each facility and the number of newly manufactured products generated from nonwoven products not using the recovered nonwoven products among the nonwoven products delivered to the facility, based on the number of users who are the subjects of utilization contracts for newly manufactured products and the number of users who are the subjects of utilization contracts for recycled products among the users represented by the user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility.

13. A management method, executed by a management device, the management method comprising the following steps: The acquisition process involves acquiring recycling information related to nonwoven products that have been used in the facility and then recycled as objects of recycling. The estimation process estimates the quantity of nonwoven products used in the facility, i.e., the quantity used, based on product information and user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility. The process involves determining the quantity of nonwoven fabric products to be delivered to the facility based on the inventory quantity of nonwoven fabric products in the specified facility and the estimated utilization quantity; and The management process involves acquiring the recycling information for each facility. in, In the decision-making process, based on the number of users who are the subjects of utilization contracts for newly manufactured products and the number of users who are the subjects of utilization contracts for recycled products among the users represented by the user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility, the number of recycled products generated using nonwoven products recovered from each facility and the number of newly manufactured products generated without using recovered nonwoven products among the nonwoven products delivered to the facility are determined.

14. A computer program product, comprising a management program for causing a computer to perform the following processes: The acquisition process involves acquiring recycling information related to nonwoven products that have been used in the facility and then recycled as objects of recycling. The estimation process estimates the quantity of nonwoven products used in the facility, i.e., the quantity used, based on product information and user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility. The decision-making process determines the quantity of nonwoven products to be delivered to the facility based on the inventory quantity of nonwoven products in the specified facility and the estimated utilization quantity. as well as The management process involves acquiring the recycling information for each facility. In the decision-making process, the number of users who are the subjects of utilization contracts for newly manufactured products and the number of users who are the subjects of utilization contracts for recycled products among the users represented by the user information corresponding to the facility information representing the specified facility are determined to be based on the number of users who are the subjects of utilization contracts for recycled products and the number of users who are the subjects of utilization contracts for recycled products.

15. A computer-readable storage medium storing a program that causes a computer to perform the management method according to claim 13.

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