Delivery management device, delivery system, delivery management method, and recording medium recording delivery management program

Abstract

A distribution management device (100) has a communication section (102) that communicates with a plurality of vehicles (200), and a control section (101) that acquires information from a storage device that stores map information (111), vehicle information (112), and user information (113) that contains information related to a user terminal (300) and information related to a user (310), and that instructs travel of the plurality of vehicles (200), the control section (101) acquires vehicle position information and user position information when a request for distribution of a cargo is received, selects one of the plurality of vehicles (200) based on the content of the request, the information acquired from the storage device, the vehicle position information, and the user position information, and causes the selected vehicle to move to the current position of the user as a responsible vehicle, and receives a completion notification indicating that the responsible vehicle has arrived at the current position of the user and that the cargo (320) has been loaded on the responsible vehicle or indicating that the responsible vehicle has arrived at the current position of the user and that the cargo (350) has been taken out from the responsible vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to delivery management devices, delivery systems, delivery management methods, and delivery management procedures. Background Technology

[0002] A delivery system comprising a vehicle for transporting goods and a management server communicating with the vehicle is proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The management server sends instructions to the vehicle, causing the vehicle to arrive at a designated delivery destination at a set time. The user collects the goods from the vehicle at the designated delivery destination at the set time.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-101463 (e.g., paragraphs 0030 and 0031, Figures 1 and 2) Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0007] However, in the aforementioned delivery system, users need to be at a designated location at a set time, which restricts their movement.

[0008] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a delivery management device, delivery system, delivery management method, and delivery management procedure that allows loading or unloading goods onto or from a vehicle without restricting the user's actions.

[0009] means for solving problems

[0010] The delivery management device disclosed herein is characterized in that it comprises: a communication unit that communicates with multiple vehicles, which autonomously drive within a predetermined area and outputs vehicle location information indicating the current location of the vehicles; and a control unit that retrieves information from a storage device and, based on the information, instructs the multiple vehicles to drive. The storage device stores map information representing the area, vehicle information indicating the types of the multiple vehicles, and user information, including information related to a user terminal and information related to the user. The user terminal outputs user location information indicating the user's current location. The control unit, upon receiving a request from an unspecified location within the area for picking up and sending goods from the user, or... If the entrustment for the delivery of goods does not specify a location within the area where the user collects the goods, the control unit obtains the vehicle location information and the user location information. Based on the content of the entrustment, the information obtained from the storage device, the vehicle location information, and the user location information, the control unit selects one vehicle from the plurality of vehicles and causes the selected vehicle to move to the user's current location as the responsible vehicle. The control unit receives a notification indicating that the responsible vehicle has arrived at the user's current location and the goods to be sent have been loaded onto the responsible vehicle, indicating that the pickup is complete, or a notification indicating that the responsible vehicle has arrived at the user's current location and the goods to be collected have been removed from the responsible vehicle, indicating that the delivery is complete.

[0011] The delivery management method disclosed herein is executed by a delivery management device that communicates with multiple vehicles. These vehicles autonomously drive within a predetermined area and output vehicle location information indicating their current location. The delivery management device retrieves information from a storage device and, based on this information, instructs the multiple vehicles to move. The storage device stores map information representing the area, vehicle information indicating the types of the multiple vehicles, and user information. The user information includes information related to a user terminal and information related to the user. The user terminal outputs user location information indicating the user's current location. The delivery management method is characterized by the following steps: upon receiving a pickup / delivery order from a user in an area not specified by the user... In the case of a delivery order for goods, or a delivery order for goods to be collected by the user in an area not specified, the vehicle location information and the user location information are obtained; based on the content of the order, the information obtained from the storage device, the vehicle location information, and the user location information, one of the plurality of vehicles is selected, and the selected vehicle is moved to the user's current location as the responsible vehicle; and a notification is received indicating that the responsible vehicle has arrived at the user's current location and the goods to be sent have been loaded onto the responsible vehicle, indicating that the pickup is completed, or a notification indicating that the responsible vehicle has arrived at the user's current location and the goods to be collected have been taken out of the responsible vehicle, indicating that the delivery is completed.

[0012] The effects of the invention

[0013] According to this disclosure, it is possible to load or unload goods from a vehicle without restricting the user's actions. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 is a diagram that schematically illustrates the structure of the delivery system according to an embodiment.

[0015] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the commercial facilities in the area shown in Figure 1.

[0016] Figure 3 is a functional block diagram that outlines the structure of the management server in Figure 1.

[0017] Figure 4 is a diagram showing the hardware structure of the management server in Figure 3.

[0018] Figure 5 is a functional block diagram that schematically illustrates the structure of the vehicle in Figure 1.

[0019] Figure 6 is a diagram showing the hardware structure of the vehicle in Figure 5.

[0020] Figure 7 is a functional block diagram that schematically illustrates the structure of the user terminal in Figure 1.

[0021] Figure 8 is a diagram showing the hardware structure of the user terminal in Figure 7.

[0022] Figure 9 is a functional block diagram that outlines the structure of the store terminal shown in Figure 1.

[0023] Figure 10 is a diagram showing the hardware structure of the store terminal shown in Figure 9.

[0024] Figure 11 is a functional block diagram that schematically illustrates the structure of the hotel terminal in Figure 1.

[0025] Figure 12 is a diagram showing the hardware structure of the hotel terminal of Figure 11.

[0026] Figures 13(A) to (F) are schematic diagrams illustrating a first operational example of the delivery system for explaining the implementation method.

[0027] Figure 14 This is a timing diagram showing the actions of the user terminal, vehicle, and management server in the first action example.

[0028] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the management server in the first action example.

[0029] Figures 16(A) to (E) are schematic diagrams illustrating a second operational example of the delivery system for explaining the implementation method.

[0030] Figure 17 is a timing diagram showing the actions of the user terminal, vehicle, and management server in the second action example.

[0031] Figure 18 is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the management server in the second action example.

[0032] Figures 19(A) to (E) are schematic diagrams illustrating the third operational example of the delivery system of the implementation method.

[0033] Figure 20 is a timing diagram showing the actions of the user terminal, vehicle, and management server in the third action example.

[0034] Figure 21 is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the management server in the third action example.

[0035] Figures 22(A) to (F) are schematic diagrams illustrating the fourth operational example of the delivery system in the implementation method.

[0036] Figure 23 is a timing diagram showing the actions of the user terminal, vehicle, and management server in the fourth action example.

[0037] Figure 24 is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the management server in the fourth action example.

[0038] Figures 25(A) to (E) are schematic diagrams illustrating the fifth operational example of the delivery system for explaining the implementation method.

[0039] Figure 26 is a timing diagram showing the actions of the user terminal, vehicle, and management server in the fifth action example.

[0040] Figure 27 is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the management server in the fifth action example.

[0041] Figures 28(A) to (F) are schematic diagrams illustrating the sixth operational example of the delivery system in the implementation method.

[0042] Figure 29 is a timing diagram showing the actions of the user terminal, vehicle, and management server in the sixth action example.

[0043] Figure 30 is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the management server in the sixth action example. Detailed Implementation

[0044] Hereinafter, the delivery management device, delivery system, delivery management method, and delivery management procedure according to embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are merely examples, and the embodiments can be appropriately combined and modified.

[0045] Delivery System

[0046] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the delivery system of this embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the delivery system of this embodiment includes a management server 100 as a delivery management device, and multiple autonomous vehicles 200 that autonomously drive within a predetermined area 700. The management server 100 is a device capable of executing the delivery management method of this embodiment. The management server 100 is, for example, a computer. The management server 100 is capable of executing the delivery management program of this embodiment.

[0047] In the example of Figure 1, facilities are provided within area 700. In the example of Figure 1, commercial facilities 710, entertainment facilities 720, and a hotel 510 serving as accommodation are provided within area 700. However, the facilities within area 700 are not limited to those shown in the figure.

[0048] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the commercial facility 710 within the area 700 shown in Figure 1. Figures 1 and 2 show a user 310 utilizing the commercial facility 710, a user terminal 300 such as a smartphone carried by the user 310, a shop terminal 400 located in the shop (e.g., at the checkout counter), and multiple vehicles 200 (#1, #2, #3). The multiple vehicles 200 are expected to include various types of vehicles with different characteristics (e.g., storage capacity, presence or absence of refrigeration function, capacity of rechargeable batteries supplying power for operation, etc.). However, the number of users 310, the number of user terminals 300, the number of shop terminals 400, and the number and types of vehicles 200 are not limited to those shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0049] The management server 100 can access map information 111 representing a map of region 700, vehicle information 112 representing the types of multiple vehicles 200, and user information 113. User information 113 includes information related to the user terminal 300 that outputs user location information U representing the user's current location (e.g., information identifying the user terminal 300) and information related to the user 310 (e.g., information identifying the user). Information related to the user 310 may include, for example, the user 310's personal information (e.g., attribute information such as name, gender, and age) and information about the user 310's family members (e.g., the group traveling with the user 310, such as their spouse or children). Additionally, if the user 310 is traveling with others (e.g., the group traveling with the user 310, such as their colleagues or friends), this information may also be included in the family member information. User information 113 may be information pre-registered when using a hotel 510. The map information 111, vehicle information 112, and user information 113 are obtained from the management server 100's storage device or an external storage device. The external storage device can also be the storage device of another server connected to the communication network 600. The communication network 600 is, for example, the Internet.

[0050] The management server 100, multiple vehicles 200, one or more user terminals 300, one or more shop terminals 400, and terminals of other facilities (e.g., hotel terminals 500 installed in hotel 510) can communicate with each other via communication network 600. The management server 100 provides instructions for the movement of the multiple vehicles 200 based on map information 111, vehicle information 112, and user information 113. For example, as shown in FIG2, the multiple vehicles 200 can also move within the commercial facility 710 according to a predetermined schedule and predetermined driving routes.

[0051] Upon receiving a delivery request, the management server 100 obtains vehicle location information V from vehicle 200 and user location information U from user terminal 300. Based on the delivery request, map information 111, vehicle information 112, user information 113, vehicle location information, and user location information U, it selects (i.e., decides) one vehicle from multiple vehicles 200, causing the selected vehicle 200 to move to the user's current location as the responsible vehicle 210. In deciding on the responsible vehicle 210, the remaining charge of the vehicle's rechargeable battery and the road conditions between each vehicle 200 and the user's location (e.g., under construction, uneven terrain, etc.) can also be taken into consideration.

[0052] The management server 100 receives a notification indicating that the pickup of goods has been completed, signifying that the responsible vehicle 210 has arrived at the user's current location and the goods have been loaded onto the responsible vehicle 210 (e.g., as shown in Figures 13(A) to (F) to 27, described later), or a notification indicating that the delivery of goods has been completed, signifying that the responsible vehicle 210 has arrived at the user's current location and the goods have been retrieved from the responsible vehicle 210 (e.g., as shown in Figure 28, described later). The management server 100 receives a completion notification, for example, from the responsible vehicle 210.

[0053] Management Server 100

[0054] Figure 3 is a functional block diagram that schematically illustrates the structure of the management server 100 of Figure 1. As shown in Figure 3, the management server 100 includes: a communication unit 102 that communicates with multiple vehicles 200 via a communication network 600; and a control unit 101 that obtains information from a storage device storing map information 111, vehicle information 112, and user information 113, and instructs the multiple vehicles 200 to move based on the obtained information. When the control unit 101 receives a delivery request, it obtains vehicle location information and user location information U. Based on the content of the request, the information obtained from the storage device, the vehicle location information, and the user location information U, it selects one vehicle 200 from the multiple vehicles 200 and causes the selected vehicle 200 to move to the user's current location as the responsible vehicle 210. The control unit 101 receives a notification indicating that the responsible vehicle 210 has arrived at the user's current location and that the goods have been loaded onto the responsible vehicle 210, indicating that the pickup is complete, or a notification indicating that the responsible vehicle 210 has arrived at the user's current location and that the goods have been retrieved from the responsible vehicle 210, indicating that the delivery is complete.

[0055] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the hardware structure of the management server 100 of Figure 3. As shown in Figure 4, the management server 100 includes a processor 151 such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a memory 152 as a volatile storage device, a communication circuit 153 for communication, and a non-volatile storage device 154 such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid-state drive (SSD). The memory 152 is, for example, a volatile semiconductor memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0056] The functions of the management server 100 are implemented by processing circuitry. Processing circuitry can be dedicated hardware or a processor 151 that executes programs stored in memory 152. Processor 151 can also be any of a processing device, a computing device, a microprocessor, a microcomputer, or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor).

[0057] When the processing circuit is dedicated hardware, the processing circuit may be a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmable processor, a parallel programmable processor, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or any combination thereof.

[0058] When the processing circuit is processor 151, the delivery management program is implemented by software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware. The software and firmware are described in program form and stored in memory 152. Processor 151 implements the functions of the parts shown in FIG3 by reading and executing the delivery management program stored in memory 152.

[0059] Alternatively, the management server 100 can be partially implemented by dedicated hardware and partially by software or firmware. In this way, the processing circuitry can implement the aforementioned functions through hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof.

[0060] Vehicle 200

[0061] Figure 5 is a functional block diagram that schematically shows the structure of the vehicle 200 of Figure 1. As shown in Figure 5, the vehicle 200 includes a communication unit 202 that communicates with other devices such as the management server 100 via a communication network 600, a vehicle control unit 201 that controls the movement of the vehicle 200, a vehicle location acquisition unit 203 that obtains the vehicle 200's location (i.e., its own vehicle 200's location), such as GPS (Global Positioning System), and a vehicle driving unit 204 that drives the vehicle 200 by a motor or the like. The vehicle control unit 201 controls the operation of the vehicle driving unit 204 based on driving instructions and vehicle location information V received from the management server 100. Furthermore, when its own vehicle 200 is the responsible vehicle 210, the vehicle control unit 201 sends a notification indicating that the vehicle has reached the user's current location and that the goods have been loaded into the responsible vehicle 210, indicating that the vehicle has arrived at the user's current location and that the goods have been retrieved from the responsible vehicle 210, indicating that the delivery has been completed. Furthermore, the vehicle control unit 201 can also perform authentication processes for users storing goods or retrieving goods from the storage area. For example, authentication can be performed through short-range communication with the user terminal 300 or by entering a password.

[0062] Figure 6 is a diagram showing the hardware structure of the vehicle 200 of Figure 5. As shown in Figure 6, the vehicle 200 has a processor 251 such as a CPU, a memory 252 as a volatile storage device, a communication circuit 253 for communication, a non-volatile storage device 254, a motor drive circuit 255 for driving the motor of the vehicle, a camera 256 for capturing images of the surroundings of the vehicle 200, and a GPS 257. The vehicle 200 is, for example, a device equipped with a computer. In addition to the camera 256, the vehicle 200 may also have a ranging sensor such as LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) or radar, which uses information about photographic images or detected objects for the control of autonomous driving of the vehicle 200. Furthermore, the vehicle 200 may also have a cargo sensor for detecting the state of cargo being stored or not, and has the function of notifying the management server 100 of the detection results of the cargo sensor.

[0063] The various functions of vehicle 200 are implemented by processing circuitry. Processing circuitry can be dedicated hardware or a processor 251 that executes programs stored in memory 252. The structure of the vehicle 200's control system can also be partially implemented by dedicated hardware and partially by software or firmware. Thus, processing circuitry can implement the aforementioned functions through hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof.

[0064] User Terminal 300

[0065] Figure 7 is a functional block diagram that schematically illustrates the structure of the user terminal 300 of Figure 1. As shown in Figure 7, the user terminal 300 includes a communication unit 302 that communicates with other devices such as the management server 100 via a communication network 600, a terminal control unit 301, a location acquisition unit 303 such as a GPS for acquiring user location information U, an operation unit 304 for performing user operations, and a display unit 305 for displaying information. The user terminal 300 is, for example, a smartphone (i.e., a small computer). The terminal control unit 301 sends a delivery request to the management server 100. Furthermore, the terminal control unit 301 can also be used for user authentication when receiving goods into the vehicle 200 or retrieving goods from the storage warehouse. For example, authentication can be performed through short-range communication with the vehicle 200.

[0066] Figure 8 is a diagram showing the hardware structure of the user terminal 300 of Figure 7. As shown in Figure 8, the user terminal 300 includes a processor 351 such as a CPU, a memory 352 as a volatile storage device, a communication circuit 353 for communication, a non-volatile storage device 354, a touch panel 355, and a GPS 356.

[0067] The various functions of the user terminal 300 are implemented by processing circuitry. This processing circuitry can be dedicated hardware or a processor 351 that executes programs stored in memory 352. The structure of the user terminal 300 can also be partially implemented by dedicated hardware and partially by software or firmware. Thus, the processing circuitry can implement the aforementioned functions through hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof.

[0068] Store Terminal 400

[0069] Figure 9 is a functional block diagram that schematically illustrates the structure of the store terminal 400 of Figure 1. As shown in Figure 9, the store terminal 400 includes a communication unit 402 that communicates with other devices such as the management server 100 via a communication network 600, a store terminal control unit 401, a product information reading unit 403 that reads barcodes containing specific information about the products being sold, an operation unit 404 that performs operations, and a display unit 405 that displays information. The store terminal 400 is, for example, a computer. The store terminal control unit 401 sends a delivery request to the management server 100. Furthermore, the store terminal control unit 401 can also send a delivery request to the management server 100 on behalf of the user terminal 300. In this case, the store terminal control unit 401 can also send product information read by the product information reading unit 403 as information about the products to be delivered.

[0070] Figure 10 is a diagram showing the hardware structure of the store terminal 400 of Figure 9. As shown in Figure 10, the store terminal 400 includes a processor 451 such as a CPU, a memory 452 as a volatile storage device, a communication circuit 453 for communication, a touch panel 454, and a barcode reader 455.

[0071] The various functions of the store terminal 400 are implemented by a processing circuit. This processing circuit can be dedicated hardware or a processor 451 that executes programs stored in memory 452. The structure of the store terminal 400 can also be partially implemented by dedicated hardware and partially by software or firmware. Thus, the processing circuit can implement the aforementioned functions through hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof.

[0072] Hotel Terminal 500

[0073] Figure 11 is a functional block diagram that schematically illustrates the structure of the hotel terminal 500 of Figure 1. As shown in Figure 11, the hotel terminal 500 includes a communication unit 502 for communicating with other devices such as the management server 100 via a communication network 600, a hotel terminal control unit 501, a storage unit 503 for storing user information, an operation unit 504 for performing input operations, and a display unit 505 for displaying information. The hotel terminal 500 is, for example, a computer. The hotel terminal control unit 501 is used for communication that, based on a request from the management server 100, stores goods to be delivered to the user in the storage area of ​​the vehicle 200 that has arrived at the hotel 510. Furthermore, the hotel terminal control unit 501 can also send a delivery request for goods to the management server 100 on behalf of the user terminal 300.

[0074] Figure 12 is a diagram showing the hardware structure of the hotel terminal 500 of Figure 11. As shown in Figure 12, the hotel terminal 500 includes a processor 551 such as a CPU, a memory 552 as a volatile storage device, a communication circuit 553 for communication, a non-volatile storage device 554, and a touch panel 555.

[0075] The various functions of the hotel terminal 500 are implemented by a processing circuit. This processing circuit can be dedicated hardware or a processor 551 that executes programs stored in memory 552. The structure of the hotel terminal 500 can also be partially implemented by dedicated hardware and partially by software or firmware. Thus, the processing circuit can implement the aforementioned functions through hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof.

[0076] Example of Action 1

[0077] Figures 13(A) to (F) are schematic diagrams illustrating a first operational example of the delivery system according to this embodiment. First, as shown in Figure 13(A), a user 310 who requests the delivery of goods 320 sends a delivery request from a user terminal 300. The delivery request includes the following: the delivery destination is a hotel 510, which is also the destination for accommodation. Furthermore, the delivery request may also include size information of the goods being delivered, such as the goods 320. Additionally, the delivery request may include, for example, a specification of a pickup time such as "Please pick up the goods approximately one hour from now," "Please pick up the goods one hour from now," or "Please pick up the goods within one hour from now."

[0078] As shown in Figures 13(B) and (C), the user 310 who has made a delivery request does not need to wait at a designated location at a set time, and is therefore able to move freely within the area 700.

[0079] Then, as shown in Figure 13(D), the vehicle 210 arrives at the location of the user 310 who is free to move around. At this time, the vehicle 210 informs the user 310 that it has accepted the goods through voice output, display on the display unit of the vehicle 210, or notification to the user terminal 300.

[0080] As shown in Figure 13(E), the vehicle responsible for delivery 210 authenticates the user 310 who has entrusted the delivery, loads the goods 320 into the storage warehouse of the vehicle responsible for delivery 210, and then moves to the delivery destination (e.g., hotel 510). In addition, the vehicle responsible for delivery 210 notifies the management server 100 that the pickup is complete.

[0081] Then, as shown in Figure 13(F), user 310 is able to move freely without hands (e.g., sightseeing, shopping, eating, etc.).

[0082] Figure 14 This is a timing diagram showing the actions of the user terminal 300, the vehicle 210, and the management server 100 in the first action example. Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the management server 100 in the first action example.

[0083] First, in step S101, user information is registered with the management server 100. User information registration can also be performed simultaneously with the accommodation reservation at hotel 510. Furthermore, the accommodation reservation at hotel 510 can also include reservations for temporary facilities not associated with an overnight stay at hotel 510 (e.g., rest areas, restaurant use, etc.).

[0084] Next, in step S102, a delivery request is made to the management server 100. The management server 100 registers the delivery in the reservation list, and in step S103, notifies the user terminal 300 of the receipt of the request. Alternatively, the management server 100 may also notify the hotel terminal 500 of the hotel 510 at the delivery destination of the delivery reservation.

[0085] Next, in step S104, the management server 100 repeatedly requests and receives user location information U from the user terminal 300 until the pickup by the responsible vehicle 210 is completed. Furthermore, in step S106, the management server 100 selects the responsible vehicle 210 from the vehicles 200#1 to #N moving within area 700 to pick up the goods, and in step S107, provides instructions for driving to pick up the goods. The responsible vehicle 210 moves towards the location of the freely moving user 310, notifying the user 310 that the goods have arrived for pickup.

[0086] Next, the vehicle responsible for delivery, 210, authenticates that the user 310 has entrusted the delivery to the individual. After loading the goods 320 into the storage warehouse of the vehicle responsible for delivery, it begins to move towards the hotel 510, which is the delivery destination. In addition, in step S108, the vehicle responsible for delivery notifies the management server 100 that the pickup is complete.

[0087] Next, in step S109, the vehicle 210 notifies the management server 100 that the delivery to the hotel 510 is complete. In step S110, the management server 100 notifies the user terminal 300 that the delivery is complete.

[0088] In the case of the first action example, user 310 does not need to be in a designated location at a set time in order to collect goods, and can move freely within area 700.

[0089] Example of the second action

[0090] In the first example above, the operation of the delivery system was explained when user 310 did not wish to carry goods 320. However, sometimes user 310 may wish to walk around area 700 with a plush toy (e.g., while holding the plush toy). Therefore, in the second example, the scenario where user 310 is estimated to want to walk around area 700 carrying purchased goods is explained.

[0091] Figures 16(A) to (E) are schematic diagrams illustrating a second operational example of the delivery system according to this embodiment. First, as shown in Figure 16(A), a user 310, who requests delivery of goods 330 purchased as goods, sends a delivery request from a store terminal 400. The delivery request includes the following: the delivery destination is a hotel 510, which is also the destination for accommodation. Furthermore, the delivery request may also include goods information (e.g., size information) regarding the goods being delivered as goods 330. This goods information may also be obtained by reading the barcode of the goods using a barcode reader. Additionally, the delivery request may include, for example, a specific specification of the pickup time, or a general specification of the pickup time such as "Please pick up the goods later." Moreover, the delivery request shown in Figure 16(A) can also be made by the user terminal 300.

[0092] Next, as shown in Figure 16(B), the user 310 who made the delivery request does not need to wait at the designated location at the set time, and is therefore able to move freely with the plush toy within the area 700.

[0093] Then, as shown in Figure 16(C), the vehicle 210 arrives at the location of the user 310 who is free to move around. The management server 100 estimates the expected time until the vehicle 210 arrives at the user's location based on user information about the user 310 (e.g., user attributes), information about purchased goods (e.g., size and weight of the goods), the type of walking facilities, etc. This estimation can also be performed using a pre-learned model obtained through machine learning based on user attributes, information about purchased goods, the type of walking facilities, etc. Regarding machine learning methods, various methods such as deep learning using neural networks, decision trees, random forests, logistic regression, support vector machines, etc., can be used. When the vehicle 210 arrives at the user's location, the vehicle 210 preferably informs the user 310 through voice output, display on the display unit of the vehicle 210, or notification to the user terminal 300.

[0094] Next, as shown in Figure 16(D), the vehicle responsible for delivery 210 authenticates the user 310 as the person who entrusted the delivery, loads the goods 330 into the storage warehouse of the vehicle responsible for delivery 210, and then moves to the delivery destination (e.g., hotel 510). In addition, the vehicle responsible for delivery 210 notifies the management server 100 that the pickup is complete.

[0095] Then, as shown in Figure 16(F), user 310 is able to move freely without hands (e.g., sightseeing, shopping, eating, etc.).

[0096] Figure 17 is a timing diagram illustrating the actions of the user terminal 300, vehicle 200, and management server 100 in the second action example. Figure 18 is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the management server 100 in the second action example. The second action example shown in Figures 17 and 18 is related to... Figure 14 and Figure 15 The difference in the first action example shown is that: the store terminal 400 sends a delivery request and the request receipt notification is sent to the store terminal 400 (or both the store terminal 400 and the user terminal 300) (steps S202, S203); and the management server 100 determines the responsible vehicle 210 and the pickup time based on user information 113, product information, user location information U, and vehicle location information V (step S206). The second action example is the same as the first action example in all aspects except as described above.

[0097] In the case of the second action example, user 310 does not need to be in a designated location at a set time in order to collect goods, and can move freely within area 700.

[0098] Furthermore, within an appropriate timeframe when the user 310 is not excessively fatigued, the user 310 can walk around the facility with the purchased plush toy, thereby increasing the level of happiness experienced by the user 310 and enhancing the user 310's satisfaction with the facility's use.

[0099] Example of the third action

[0100] The first and second examples described above illustrate the operation of a delivery system for delivering goods 320 to a hotel 510, which is a different facility from the commercial facility 710. However, sometimes after leaving the commercial facility 710, the user 310 goes to other facilities (e.g., an entertainment facility 720). Therefore, the third example describes the situation where the user 310 collects their package, i.e., goods 340, at the exit of the commercial facility 710.

[0101] Figures 19(A) to (E) are schematic diagrams illustrating a third operational example of the delivery system according to this embodiment. First, as shown in Figure 19(A), a user 310 who requests the delivery of goods 340 sends a delivery request from a user terminal 300. The delivery request includes the following: the delivery destination is the exit of the currently located commercial facility 710 (e.g., a goods collection point near the exit). At the goods collection point near the exit, a facility terminal, which functions as a computer, performs processing such as authentication for the user 310 to collect the goods 340. The structure of the facility terminal is the same as that of a hotel terminal.

[0102] Next, as shown in Figure 19(B), the user 310 who has made a delivery request does not need to wait at a designated location at a set time, and is therefore able to move freely within the commercial facility 710.

[0103] Then, as shown in Figure 19(C), the vehicle 210 arrives at the location of the freely moving user 310. The vehicle 210, having authenticated the user 310 as the person who entrusted the delivery, loads the goods 340 into its storage area and then moves towards the exit, which is the delivery destination. Furthermore, the vehicle 210 notifies the management server 100 that the pickup is complete.

[0104] Subsequently, as shown in Figure 19(D), user 310 is able to move freely without hands (e.g., sightseeing, shopping, dining, etc.). As shown in Figure 19(E), user 310 is able to collect goods 340 at the exit of commercial facility 710 and move from commercial facility 710 to other locations.

[0105] Figure 20 is a timing diagram illustrating the actions of the user terminal 300, vehicle 200, and management server 100 in the third action example. Figure 21 is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the management server 100 in the third action example. The third action example shown in Figures 20 and 21 is related to... Figure 14 and Figure 15 The difference in the first action example shown is that the delivery destination of goods 340 is the facility's exit (step S302); and the management server 100 is notified that goods 340 has been delivered to the facility's exit (step S309). The third action example is the same as the first action example in all other respects.

[0106] In the case of the third action example, user 310 does not need to be in a designated location at a set time in order to collect goods, and can move freely within area 700.

[0107] Example of the 4th action

[0108] In the first to third examples above, the action of vehicle 210 picking up goods from a single user 310 was explained. However, user 310 is sometimes not in a hurry to pick up goods. In this case, if vehicle 210 with multiple storage compartments picks up goods from multiple users sequentially, the efficiency of picking up goods is improved. Therefore, in the fourth example, the case of using vehicle 210 with multiple storage compartments will be explained.

[0109] Figures 22(A) to (F) are schematic diagrams illustrating the fourth operational example of the delivery system of this embodiment. First, as shown in Figure 22(A), the user 310 who entrusts the delivery of goods 320 sends a delivery request from the user terminal 300. The delivery request includes: the delivery destination is hotel 510, and "not in a hurry to pick up the goods".

[0110] Next, as shown in Figures 22(B) and (C), the user 310 who has made a delivery request does not need to wait at a designated location at a set time, and is therefore able to move freely within the commercial facility 710.

[0111] Next, as shown in Figure 22(D), the vehicle 210, equipped with multiple storage compartments, arrives at the location of the user 310, who is free to move around the device. Then, as shown in Figure 22(E), the vehicle 210 verifies that the user 310 has entrusted the delivery, loads goods 340 into one of its storage compartments, and moves towards the hotel 510, the delivery destination. Furthermore, the vehicle 210 notifies the management server 100 that the pickup is complete.

[0112] Then, as shown in Figure 22(F), user 310 is able to move freely without hands (e.g., sightseeing, shopping, eating, etc.).

[0113] Figure 23 is a timing diagram illustrating the actions of the user terminal 300, vehicle 200, and management server 100 in the fourth action example. Figure 24 is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the management server 100 in the fourth action example. The fourth action example shown in Figures 23 and 24 is related to... Figure 14 and Figure 15 The difference in the first action example shown is that: a notification was made to the collection of goods 320 that were not urgent (step S402); and in this case, a responsible vehicle 210 with multiple storage warehouses was selected (step S406). The fourth action example is the same as the first action example in all aspects except as described above.

[0114] In the case of the fourth action example, user 310 does not need to be at a designated location at a set time to collect goods, and can move freely within area 700. In addition, the efficiency of collecting goods is improved by using the responsible vehicle 210 with multiple storage compartments.

[0115] Example of Action #5

[0116] In the first to fourth examples above, the actions were described as follows: using user 310's information as user information 113 or not using user information 113. However, by utilizing the information of user 310 and their family members, the convenience for user 310 as a facility user is sometimes improved. Therefore, in the fifth example, the situation where the responsible vehicle 210 is determined by considering the information of user 310 as a delivery consignor and their family members (a group acting together).

[0117] Figures 25(A) to (E) are schematic diagrams illustrating the fifth operational example of the delivery system of this embodiment. First, as shown in Figure 25(A), the user 310 who commissioned the delivery of goods 320 sends a delivery request from the user terminal 300. The delivery request includes: the delivery destination is a hotel 510, the delivery is being made in a group of three people including the wife and children, and the number of goods is three.

[0118] Next, as shown in Figure 25(B), the group of users 310 who have made delivery requests do not need to wait at a designated location at a set time, and are therefore able to move freely within the commercial facility 710.

[0119] Then, as shown in Figure 25(C), the vehicle 210, equipped with a storage rack with a capacity larger than the predetermined standard capacity, arrives at the location of the group of users 310 who are traveling freely. The management server 100 estimates the desired size of the storage rack for the vehicle 210 based on user information about users 310 (e.g., the user's family structure) 113. This estimation can also be performed using a pre-learned model generated through machine learning based on user 310 attributes, family structure, information about purchased goods, types of facilities for walking, etc. For example, a large-capacity storage rack for the vehicle 210 is needed when children are of a certain age and ride in strollers that carry large loads, or when there are many children. Furthermore, machine learning methods can be used, such as deep learning, decision trees, random forests, logistic regression, support vector machines, and other methods that utilize neural networks.

[0120] Next, as shown in Figure 25(D), the vehicle responsible for delivery, after verifying that the user 310 has entrusted the delivery, loads goods 340, 341, and 320 into the storage warehouse of the vehicle responsible for delivery, and then moves to the hotel 510, which is the delivery destination. In addition, the vehicle responsible for delivery notifies the management server 100 that the pickup is complete.

[0121] Then, as shown in Figure 25(E), user 310 is able to move freely without hands (e.g., sightseeing, shopping, eating, etc.).

[0122] Figure 26 is a timing diagram illustrating the actions of the user terminal 300, vehicle 200, and management server 100 in the fifth action example. Figure 27 is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the management server 100 in the fifth action example. The fifth action example shown in Figures 26 and 27 is related to... Figure 14 and Figure 15 The difference in the first action example shown is that: user information 113 includes the user's family information (step S501); and the responsible vehicle 210 is selected (i.e., decided) based on user information 113, user location information U, and vehicle location information V (step S506). The fifth action example is the same as the first action example in all aspects except as described above.

[0123] In the case of the fifth action, the user 310, his wife, and children do not need to be at a designated location at a set time to pick up goods, and can move freely within the area 700. Furthermore, the responsible vehicle 210, which has a large-capacity storage compartment, can be used, thus ensuring reliable storage of goods.

[0124] Example of Action #6

[0125] In the first to fifth examples above, the operation of the delivery system was described when user 310 loads and sends goods to the storage warehouse responsible for vehicle 210. In the sixth example, the operation of the delivery system is described when user 310 receives goods from the storage warehouse responsible for vehicle 210. Specifically, an example of the operation of the delivery system is described when a coat belonging to user 310 located in hotel 510 is delivered to user 310 walking in commercial facility 710.

[0126] Figures 28(A) to (F) are schematic diagrams illustrating a sixth operational example of the delivery system of this embodiment. First, as shown in Figure 28(A), a request is sent from the user terminal 300 to deliver a coat 350 as goods from the room of user 310 in hotel 510 to user 310 located in commercial facility 710. The delivery request includes: the delivery destination being user 310 moving within area 700, and the goods being a coat 350 located in their own room in hotel 510.

[0127] Next, as shown in Figure 28(B), the management server 100 determines that the vehicle 210 will arrive at the hotel 510 (e.g., the front desk) within area 700. As shown in Figure 28(C), after the hotel staff at 510 store the coat 350 in the storage compartment of the vehicle 210, as shown in Figure 28(D), the vehicle 210 arrives at the location of the user 310 who is free to move within the commercial facility 710. Furthermore, the storage of the coat 350 can be achieved either by the vehicle 210 itself moving to the room, or by someone located in the room (e.g., hotel staff at 510, the room's occupant, etc.) storing the coat 350 in the storage compartment.

[0128] Next, as shown in Figure 28(E), the vehicle 210 authenticates the user 310 as the person who entrusted the delivery, allowing them to retrieve the coat 350 stored in the storage compartment of the vehicle 210. As shown in Figure 28(F), after retrieving the coat 350 from the vehicle 210, the vehicle 210 notifies the management server 100 that the delivery of the collected goods is complete.

[0129] After that, user 310 was able to move around freely while wearing the jacket.

[0130] Figure 29 is a timing diagram illustrating the actions of the user terminal 300, vehicle 200, and management server 100 in the sixth action example. Figure 30 is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the management server 100 in the sixth action example. The sixth action example shown in Figures 29 and 30 is related to... Figure 14 and Figure 15The difference in the first action example shown is that: the collection / delivery of goods at hotel 510 and delivery of goods to user 310 is entrusted (step S602); and the vehicle 210 is responsible for going to hotel 510 to collect the goods to be delivered to the user, namely coat 350, and then moving to the user's location and delivering the goods (steps S607, S608, S609). Regarding aspects other than those mentioned above, the sixth action example is the same as the first action example.

[0131] In the case of action 6, user 310 does not need to be in a designated location at a set time to collect goods, and can move freely within area 700.

[0132] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0133] 100 Management Server (Delivery Management Device), 101 Control Department, 102 Communication Department, 111 Map Information, 112 Vehicle Information, 113 User Information, 200 Vehicles, 210 Responsible Vehicles, 300 User Terminals, 310 Users, 320, 330, 340 Goods (Sending Goods), 350 Goods (Receiving Goods), 400 Shop Terminals, 500 Hotel Terminals (Sender Terminals), 510 Hotels (Accommodation Facilities), 600 Communication Network, 700 Area, 710 Commercial Facilities, 720 Entertainment Facilities.

Claims

1. A distribution management device, characterized in that, The delivery management device has the following features: The communications unit communicates with multiple vehicles that autonomously navigate within a predetermined area, outputting vehicle location information indicating their current positions; and The control unit retrieves information from a storage device and, based on this information, issues driving instructions for the plurality of vehicles. The storage device stores map information representing the area, vehicle information representing the types of the plurality of vehicles, and user information. This user information includes information related to the user terminal and information related to the user. The user terminal outputs user location information indicating the current location of the user freely moving within the area. When the control unit receives a delivery order for goods that does not specify a location for picking up and sending goods from the user within the specified area, or a delivery order that does not specify a location for picking up and receiving goods from the user within the specified area, it obtains the vehicle location information and the user location information. Based on the content of the entrustment, the information obtained from the storage device, the vehicle location information, and the user location information, the control unit selects one vehicle from the plurality of vehicles, and causes the selected vehicle to move as the responsible vehicle to the user's current location within the area. The control unit receives a notification indicating that the responsible vehicle has arrived at the user's current location and the goods to be sent have been loaded onto the responsible vehicle, signifying the completion of the pickup; or a notification indicating that the responsible vehicle has arrived at the user's current location and the goods to be received have been taken from the responsible vehicle, signifying the completion of the delivery.

2. The delivery management device according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the case where the entrustment is a delivery entrustment for the shipment of goods, the entrustment is sent from the user terminal or the store terminal of the store that purchased the shipment of goods.

3. The distribution management device according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the request is sent from the user terminal, the request includes the size information of the goods to be sent.

4. The distribution management device according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the order is sent from the store terminal, the order contains specific information about the purchased goods to be shipped.

5. The distribution management device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The assignment includes information specifying the delivery destination of the goods to be sent within the specified area.

6. The distribution management device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, If the user information indicates that the user is accompanied by a family member, the control unit selects a vehicle with a larger storage capacity than usual as the responsible vehicle.

7. The distribution management device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, If the order does not specify a pickup time for the goods to be sent, or if the pickup time for the goods to be sent is specified for a period longer than a predetermined duration, the control unit selects a vehicle with multiple storage warehouses for storing goods as the responsible vehicle.

8. The distribution management device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, If the assignment includes time information indicating that the responsible vehicle is expected to arrive several hours from now, the control unit selects the responsible vehicle based on the time information and instructs the responsible vehicle to travel.

9. The distribution management device according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the case where the entrustment is an entrustment for the delivery of the goods, the entrustment is sent from the user terminal to the communication unit and the terminal of the sender who sent the goods, i.e., the sender terminal.

10. The delivery management device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The control unit moves the responsible vehicle to the location of the sender's terminal, and after confirming that the loading of the received goods onto the responsible vehicle is complete, moves the responsible vehicle to the user's current location.

11. The distribution management device according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that, The sender is a hotel. The sender terminal is a hotel terminal located in the hotel.

12. A delivery system, characterized in that, have: The delivery management device according to any one of claims 1 to 11; and The aforementioned multiple vehicles.

13. A delivery management method, executed by a delivery management device, the delivery management device communicating with multiple vehicles autonomously driving within a predetermined area, outputting vehicle location information indicating the current location of the vehicles, the delivery management device retrieving information from a storage device, and issuing driving instructions to the multiple vehicles based on the information, the storage device storing map information representing the area, vehicle information indicating the types of the multiple vehicles, and user information, the user information including information related to a user terminal and information related to the user, the user terminal outputting user location information indicating the current location of the user freely moving within the area, characterized in that... The delivery management method includes the following steps: In the event of receiving a delivery order for goods that does not specify a location for picking up and sending goods from the user within the specified area, or a delivery order that does not specify a location for picking up and collecting goods from the user within the specified area, the vehicle location information and the user location information are obtained. Based on the content of the entrustment, the information obtained from the storage device, the vehicle location information, and the user location information, one of the plurality of vehicles is selected, and the selected vehicle is moved as the responsible vehicle to the current location of the user who is moving freely in the area. as well as Receive a notification indicating that the responsible vehicle has arrived at the user's current location and the goods to be sent have been loaded onto the responsible vehicle, indicating that the pickup is complete; or receive a notification indicating that the responsible vehicle has arrived at the user's current location and the goods to be received have been taken out of the responsible vehicle, indicating that the delivery is complete.

14. A recording medium recording a delivery management procedure executed by a computer that communicates with multiple vehicles autonomously driving within a predetermined area and outputting vehicle location information indicating the current location of the vehicles; the computer retrieving information from a storage device and issuing driving instructions to the multiple vehicles based on the information; the storage device storing map information representing the area, vehicle information indicating the types of the multiple vehicles, and user information, the user information including information related to a user terminal and information related to the user; the user terminal outputting user location information indicating the current location of a user freely moving within the area, characterized in that... The delivery management program causes the computer to perform the following processes: In the event of receiving a delivery order for goods that does not specify a location for picking up and sending goods from the user within the specified area, or a delivery order that does not specify a location for picking up and collecting goods from the user within the specified area, the vehicle location information and the user location information are obtained. Based on the content of the entrustment, the information obtained from the storage device, the vehicle location information, and the user location information, one of the plurality of vehicles is selected, and the selected vehicle is moved as the responsible vehicle to the current location of the user who is moving freely in the area. as well as Receive a notification indicating that the responsible vehicle has arrived at the user's current location and the goods to be sent have been loaded onto the responsible vehicle, indicating that the pickup is complete; or receive a notification indicating that the responsible vehicle has arrived at the user's current location and the goods to be received have been taken out of the responsible vehicle, indicating that the delivery is complete.

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