Delivery Shelf System and Its Control Method

Abstract

The present invention relates to a shelving system for distribution and its control method. The shelving system for distribution includes a shelf that is installed across outdoors and indoors, and a turnover box that is supported by the shelf in a slidable manner and accommodated therein. In the shelving system for distribution, the turnover box for distribution can be pushed into the shelf from outdoors, and the turnover box accommodated in the shelf can be pulled out from indoors. In the turnover box, a first recess is provided at the indoor-side end when the turnover box is accommodated in the shelf, and a second recess is provided at the outdoor-side end. A locking mechanism is provided at the indoor-side end of the shelf, and the locking mechanism has a convex portion that is biased to insert into the first recess and the second recess. During the period when the turnover box is accommodated in the shelf, the convex portion engages with the first recess to lock the turnover box to the shelf. When the convex portion is retracted from the first recess by unlocking and the turnover box is pulled out from the shelf to indoors, the convex portion engages with the second recess, and the pulled-out turnover box stops.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a shelf system for distribution and a control method thereof. Background Art

[0002] In Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-077109, a container having a pair of magnets provided at both end portions in the take-out / put-in direction and a shelf provided with an electromagnet that adsorbs to the magnet of the container are disclosed. In Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-077109, when shaking such as an earthquake is detected by an accelerometer, the electromagnet is operated to adsorb and hold the container. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present inventors have studied a shelf system for distribution that can push a turnover box for distribution from the outside to a shelf provided across the outside and the inside, and can pull out the turnover box housed in the shelf from the inside.

[0004] When applying Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-077109 to such a shelf system for distribution, since in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-077109, the electromagnet is operated only when shaking is detected, the turnover box cannot be locked during the period when the turnover box is housed in the shelf. Also, in the configuration disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-077109, when pulling out the turnover box from the shelf, there is a possibility that the turnover box may come off the shelf due to excessive force.

[0005] The present invention has been completed in view of the above circumstances, and provides a shelf system for distribution that can lock a turnover box during the period when the turnover box is housed in the shelf, and can suppress the turnover box from coming off the shelf when pulling out the turnover box from the shelf.

[0006] The shelf system for distribution according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a shelf provided across the outside and the inside; and a turnover box supported and housed by the shelf so as to be slidable. In the shelf system for distribution, the turnover box for distribution can be pushed from the outside to the shelf, and the turnover box housed in the shelf can be pulled out from the inside. In the turnover box, a first recess is provided at the indoor-side end portion when housed in the shelf, and a second recess is provided at the outdoor-side end portion. A locking mechanism is provided at the indoor-side end portion of the shelf. The locking mechanism has a convex portion that is biased to insert into the first recess and the second recess. During the period when the turnover box is housed in the shelf, the convex portion engages with the first recess to lock the turnover box to the shelf. When the convex portion is retracted from the first recess by unlocking and the turnover box is pulled out from the shelf to the inside, the convex portion engages with the second recess, and the pulled-out turnover box stops.

[0007] In addition, in the control method of the shelving system for distribution according to one aspect of the present invention, the shelving system for distribution includes: a shelf that is provided across outdoors and indoors; and a turnover box that is supported and accommodated by the shelf in a slidable manner. The shelving system for distribution can push the distributed turnover box into the shelf from outdoors, and can pull out the turnover box accommodated in the shelf from indoors. In the turnover box, a first recess is provided at the indoor-side end when the turnover box is accommodated in the shelf, and a second recess is provided at the outdoor-side end when the turnover box is accommodated in the shelf. A locking mechanism is provided at the indoor-side end of the shelf. The locking mechanism has a convex portion that is biased to insert into the first recess and the second recess. During the period when the turnover box is accommodated in the shelf, the turnover box is locked to the shelf by engaging the convex portion with the first recess. When the convex portion is retracted from the first recess by unlocking and the turnover box is pulled out from the shelf into the room, the pulled-out turnover box is stopped by engaging the convex portion with the second recess.

[0008] In one aspect of the present invention, in the turnover box, a first recess is provided at the indoor-side end when the turnover box is accommodated in the shelf, and a second recess is provided at the outdoor-side end when the turnover box is accommodated in the shelf. A locking mechanism is provided at the indoor-side end of the shelf. The locking mechanism has a convex portion that is biased to insert into the first recess and the second recess. Also, during the period when the turnover box is accommodated in the shelf, the turnover box is locked to the shelf by engaging the convex portion with the first recess. When the convex portion is retracted from the first recess by unlocking and the turnover box is pulled out from the shelf into the room, the pulled-out turnover box is stopped by engaging the convex portion with the second recess. Therefore, the turnover box can be locked to the shelf during the period when the turnover box is accommodated in the shelf, and the turnover box can be prevented from falling off the shelf when the turnover box is pulled out from the shelf.

[0009] Alternatively, the second recess is inclined such that the opening portion expands toward the indoor side. When the pulled-out turnover box is pushed back into the shelf from indoors, the second recess passes through the convex portion without unlocking. With such a configuration, when the pulled-out turnover box is pushed back into the shelf from indoors, the second recess can also pass through the convex portion without unlocking.

[0010] Alternatively, it also has a sensor that detects the movement of the tote box from its storage position in the shelf towards the indoor side. After unlocking, when the sensor detects the movement of the tote box, it switches from the unlocked state to the locked state. With such a configuration, when the protrusion retracts from the first recess due to unlocking, and the tote box is pulled out from the shelf towards the indoor side, it can automatically switch from the unlocked state to the locked state. Therefore, when the tote box is pulled out from the shelf, the protrusion can automatically engage with the second recess to prevent the tote box from falling off the shelf.

[0011] The locking mechanism can be an electromagnetic lock that retracts the protrusion in the energized state to unlock. Since the locked state is the non-energized state, the power consumption of the locking mechanism can be reduced.

[0012] A roller can be provided at the head end of the protrusion. The roller can reduce the friction coefficient between the tote box and the locking mechanism and inhibit the generation of wear powder.

[0013] Alternatively, the shelf has a housing and a pair of support bodies extending in the depth direction inside the housing. The tote box has a protrusion that projects outward in the width direction and slides on the pair of support bodies. The first recess and the second recess are provided on one of the upper surface and the lower surface of the protrusion, and one of the upper surface and the lower surface slides with the protrusion of the locking mechanism.

[0014] Alternatively, at both ends of the protrusion in the sliding direction, one of the upper surface and the lower surface is inclined so as to approach the other of the upper surface and the lower surface from the horizontal plane, and the thickness of the protrusion becomes thinner towards both ends in the sliding direction. With such a configuration, it is difficult for the locking mechanism to catch both ends of the protrusion in the sliding direction, and the force applied by the locking mechanism can be gradually increased.

[0015] According to the present invention, a distribution shelf system can be provided that can lock the tote box to the shelf during the period when the tote box is stored in the shelf and can prevent the tote box from falling off the shelf when the tote box is pulled out from the shelf.

[0016] The above content, other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will be more fully understood from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings given by way of example only. Therefore, it should not be considered as limiting the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 It is a block diagram of the distribution shelf system according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 2It is a schematic front view showing an example of the configuration of the shelf 50 for the delivery shelf system according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 3 It shows the situation of moving the turnover box 61 from the outside to Figure 2 the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided, in a schematic side view.

[0020] Figure 4 It shows the situation of moving the turnover box 61 from the outside to Figure 2 the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided, in a schematic side view.

[0021] Figure 5 It shows the situation of moving the turnover box 61 from the outside to Figure 2 the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided, in a schematic side view.

[0022] Figure 6 It is a top view showing the positional relationship between the guide rail 53 and the locking mechanism L11.

[0023] Figure 7 It shows the situation of pulling out the turnover box 61 from Figure 2 the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided, in a schematic side view.

[0024] Figure 8 It shows the situation of pulling out the turnover box 61 from Figure 2 the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided, in a schematic side view.

[0025] Figure 9 It shows the situation of pulling out the turnover box 61 from Figure 2 the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided, in a schematic side view.

[0026] Figure 10 It shows the situation of taking out the turnover box 61 from Figure 2 the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided, in a schematic side view.

[0027] Figure 11 It shows the situation of taking out the turnover box 61 from Figure 2 the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided, in a schematic side view.

[0028] Figure 12 It shows the situation of pushing the turnover box 61 from the inside to Figure 2 the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided, in a schematic side view.

[0029] Figure 13 is a schematic side view showing the case where the turnover box 61 is pushed into the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided from the indoor side. Figure 2 is a schematic side view showing the case where the turnover box 61 is pushed into the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided from the indoor side.

[0030] Figure 14 is a schematic side view showing the case where the turnover box 61 is pushed into the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided from the indoor side. Figure 2 is a schematic side view showing the case where the turnover box 61 is pushed into the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided from the indoor side.

[0031] Figure 15 is a schematic side view showing the case where the turnover box 61 is pushed into the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided from the indoor side. Figure 2 is a schematic side view showing the case where the turnover box 61 is pushed into the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided from the indoor side.

[0032] Figure 16 is a schematic side view showing the case where the turnover box 61 is pushed into the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided from the indoor side. Figure 2 is a schematic side view showing the case where the turnover box 61 is pushed into the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided from the indoor side.

[0033] Figure 17 is a schematic side view showing the case where the turnover box 61 is taken out from the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided to the outdoor side. Figure 2 is a schematic side view showing the case where the turnover box 61 is taken out from the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided to the outdoor side.

[0034] Figure 18 is a schematic side view showing the case where the turnover box 61 is taken out from the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided to the outdoor side. Figure 2 is a schematic side view showing the case where the turnover box 61 is taken out from the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided to the outdoor side. Detailed Description of the Embodiment

[0035] Hereinafter, specific embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In each drawing, the same or corresponding elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions are omitted as necessary for clarity of explanation.

[0036] (First Embodiment)

[0037] <Configuration of the Delivery Shelf System>

[0038] First, with reference to Figure 1 , the delivery shelf system according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 1 is a block diagram of the delivery shelf system according to the first embodiment.

[0039] As Figure 1 shown, the delivery shelf system according to the present embodiment includes a shelf 50 and a control unit 100. This delivery shelf system is a system that controls the taking in and out of the turnover boxes stored in the shelf 50 using the control unit 100 as a computer.

[0040] Here, Figure 2 is a schematic front view showing an example of the configuration of the shelf 50 for the delivery shelf system according to the first embodiment.

[0041] As Figure 2 shown, the shelf 50 includes a housing 51 and a plurality of pairs of guide rails 53 that extend in the depth direction (x-axis direction) inside the housing 51 and are arranged at equal intervals in the height direction (z-axis direction).

[0042] That is, the shelf 50 supports and houses the turnover boxes 61 to 63 of various predetermined sizes so that they can slide through the respective guide rails 53. More specifically, as Figure 2 shown, by sliding the protruding portions 61a to 63a that protrude outward in the width direction from the turnover boxes 61 to 63 on a pair of adjacent and opposing guide rails 53, the turnover boxes 61 to 63 can be taken in and out relative to the shelf 50.

[0043] In addition, Figure 2 the right-handed xyz orthogonal coordinates shown in other drawings are coordinates for facilitating the explanation of the positional relationship of the components. Generally, the positive z-axis direction is vertically upward, the xy plane is the horizontal plane, and they are common among the respective drawings. Also, Figure 2 is a front view, and for easy understanding, the guide rails 53 and the turnover boxes 61 to 63 are represented by dots.

[0044] As described in detail later, the shelf 50 is installed across the outdoors and indoors. Therefore, the turnover boxes 61 to 63 containing items can be carried into the shelf 50 from the outdoors, and the turnover boxes 61 to 63 housed in the shelf 50 can be pulled out indoors to take out the items from the turnover boxes 61 to 63.

[0045] The turnover boxes are not limited in any way. For example, they are made of plastic, corrugated paper, wood, metal, etc., and are reused.

[0046] And, Figure 2 the shown shelf 50 has 12 storage places where the smallest-sized turnover boxes 61 can be housed. Therefore, the shelf 50 includes 12 sensors S11 to S14, S21 to S24, S31 to S34 and locking mechanisms L11 to L14, L21 to L24, L31 to L34 corresponding to the respective storage places.

[0047] In addition, as Figure 2 shown, there may be unused storage places, or all storage places may be used. Also, of course, the number of storage parts in the shelf 50 is just an example and can be determined appropriately.

[0048] The sensor S11 is used for the control of the locking mechanism L11. Similarly, the sensor S12 is used for the control of the locking mechanism L12. The same applies to other sensors. That is, the sensors S11 to S14, S21 to S24, S31 to S34 correspond one-to-one with the locking mechanisms L11 to L14, L21 to L24, L31 to L34.

[0049] As Figure 1 shown, the control unit 100 is wirelessly or wiredly connected in a communicable manner to the sensors S11 to S14, S21 to S24, S31 to S34 and the locking mechanisms L11 to L14, L21 to L24, L31 to L34 provided on the shelf 50.

[0050] In addition, in Figure 1 , the control unit 100 is provided inside the shelf 50, but the control unit 100 may also be provided outside the shelf 50.

[0051] The control unit 100 controls the locking mechanism L11 based on an unlocking instruction from an operator operating the shelf 50 or a signal from the sensor S11. Similarly, the control unit 100 controls the locking mechanism L12 according to an unlocking instruction from the operator and a signal from the sensor S12. The same applies to other locking mechanisms. Here, the operator is, for example, a person or a robot (delivery person) who delivers a turnover box containing items and moves the turnover box into the shelf 50, or a person or a robot (receiver) who takes out items from the turnover box stored in the shelf 50 and receives them.

[0052] Details of the control of the locking mechanisms L11 to L14, L21 to L24, L31 to L34 by the control unit 100 will be described later.

[0053] As Figure 1 shown, the control unit 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and an I / O (Input / Output) as hardware. That is, the control unit 100 has the function of a computer and performs various processes based on the above various programs and the like.

[0054] The CPU101 is, for example, an arithmetic unit that performs control processing, arithmetic processing, etc.

[0055] The ROM102 is, for example, a storage unit that stores control programs, arithmetic programs, etc. executed by the CPU101.

[0056] The RAM 103 is a storage unit that temporarily stores processed data and the like.

[0057] The I / O 104 is an input / output device that inputs data and signals from the outside and outputs data and signals to the outside.

[0058] <Configuration of Shelf 50>

[0059] Next, in addition to Figure 2 other than that, reference is also made to Figures 3 to 5 to describe in detail the configuration of the shelf 50.

[0060] Figures 3 to 5 is a schematic side view showing the situation where the turnover box 61 is carried into the storage place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided from the outside of the room. Figure 2 into the turnover box 61 from the outside of the room.

[0061] In addition, although Figures 3 to 5 is a side view, for the sake of easy understanding, the guide rail 53 of the shelf 50 and the protrusion 61a of the turnover box 61 are shown in a sectional view.

[0062] As Figures 3 to 5 shown, the shelf 50 is a delivery locker installed across the outdoor and indoor areas of the house. Therefore, for example, a delivery person (including a delivery robot) can carry the delivered turnover boxes 61 to 63 into the shelf 50 from the outside, and a recipient (including an indoor robot) can pull the turnover boxes 61 to 63 out of the shelf 50 into the room and take out the items from the turnover boxes 61 to 63.

[0063] In addition, in this specification, the house includes apartment buildings and office buildings, etc. In addition, as long as a delivery person (including a delivery robot) can enter, the outside also includes the inside of the building, such as common parts like the corridors of apartment buildings.

[0064] As Figure 2 shown, the shelf 50 includes a housing 51, partition plates 52, guide rails 53, sensors S11 to S14, S21 to S24, S31 to S34, and locking mechanisms L11 to L14, L21 to L24, L31 to L34.

[0065] As Figure 2 shown, the housing 51 forms the outer frame of the shelf 50. In the Figure 2 example shown, the housing 51 has a frame structure integrally formed by a top plate provided on the positive z-axis side, a bottom plate provided on the negative z-axis side, and side panels provided on the positive y-axis side and the negative y-axis side. That is, the front and back of the housing 51 are opened in a manner that allows the turnover boxes 61 to 63 to be taken in and out. Here, for convenience, the front of the housing 51 is set as the outdoor side (positive x-axis side), and the back of the housing 51 is set as the indoor side (negative x-axis side).

[0066] As shown Figure 5 in the figure, an inner door ID that separates the interior from the interior of the shelf 50 is provided on the back surface of the housing 51. On the other hand, an outer door OD that separates the outside from the interior of the shelf 50 is provided on the front surface of the housing 51. Here, in order to protect the privacy of the occupants of the house, an interlocking mechanism can be provided so that the inner door ID and the outer door OD are not opened simultaneously.

[0067] In addition, in Figure 2 , the inner door ID and the outer door OD are omitted.

[0068] As shown Figure 2 in the figure, the partition 52 is provided parallel to the side panel constituting the housing 51 (i.e., parallel to the xz plane), and extends from the front surface to the back surface of the opened housing 51.

[0069] Here, the partition 52 is provided in such a way that the intervals between the side panel of the housing 51 and the adjacent partition 52, and the intervals between the partitions 52 are equal.

[0070] In the Figure 2 example, two partitions are provided, and the accommodation places for the turnover boxes 61 to 63 are provided in three columns. Therefore, Figure 5 the inner door ID and the outer door OD shown in the figure are each composed of, for example, three doors that can slide in the y-axis direction corresponding to each column. With such a configuration, it is possible to open only one column including the accommodation places for taking out and putting in the turnover boxes 61 to 63 in the shelf 50, and the other columns remain closed.

[0071] In addition, the number of partitions 52 is not limited in any way. In addition, partitions may not be provided, and the accommodation places for the turnover boxes 61 to 63 are in one column.

[0072] As shown Figure 2 in the figure, a plurality of pairs of guide rails (support bodies) 53 are provided on the inner surface of the housing 51 and the partition 52, extending in the depth direction (x-axis direction), and arranged at equal intervals in the height direction (z-axis direction). Here, the guide rail 53 is provided so as to stand up substantially perpendicular to the inner surface of the housing 51 and the partition 52. In the Figure 2 example, four pairs of guide rails 53 are provided in each column, and each column can accommodate four turnover boxes 61 of the minimum size.

[0073] In addition, of course, the number of guide rails 53 is not limited in any way. And, as long as the guide rails 53 can support the turnover boxes 61 to 63, they may not be continuously extended in the depth direction (x-axis direction). Or, instead of the guide rails 53, short-sized support bodies may be arranged neatly in the depth direction (x-axis direction).

[0074] As shown Figure 2As shown, by sliding on a pair of adjacent and opposing guide rails 53 through protruding portions 61a to 63a that protrude outward in the width direction from the turnover boxes 61 to 63, the turnover boxes 61 to 63 can be taken out.

[0075] In this way, the shelf 50 can support and accommodate all of the turnover boxes 61 to 63 of a plurality of predetermined sizes in a manner that enables them to slide along each pair of guide rails 53.

[0076] As Figure 2 shown, locking mechanisms L11 to L14, L21 to L24, and L31 to L34 are provided on the lower sides of each pair of guide rails 53. Through the locking mechanisms L11 to L14, L21 to L24, and L31 to L34, the turnover boxes 61 to 63 accommodated in the shelf 50 and their lids (not shown) can be locked to the housing 51, preventing the turnover boxes 61 to 63 and the items accommodated therein from being stolen.

[0077] In addition, the details of the guide rails 53 and the locking mechanism L11 will be described later.

[0078] In the present embodiment, the widths of the turnover boxes 61 to 63 of a plurality of predetermined sizes in the y-axis direction and the depths in the x-axis direction are the same. On the other hand, the heights of the turnover boxes 61 to 63 in the z-axis direction are different. The height of the smallest-sized turnover box 61 is designed to match the interval between the adjacent guide rails 53 in the z-axis direction. Of course, the height of the smallest-sized turnover box 61 is less than the interval between the guide rails 53. The height of the medium-sized turnover box 62 is designed to be approximately twice the height of the turnover box 61. In addition, the height of the largest-sized turnover box 63 is designed to be approximately three times the height of the turnover box 61.

[0079] That is, the heights of the turnover boxes 61 to 63 of a plurality of predetermined sizes are designed to be approximately an integer multiple of the interval between the adjacent guide rails 53 in the z-axis direction.

[0080] In addition, in Figure 2 the example shown, there are three sizes of turnover boxes, but it can also be set to two or four or more. In Figure 2 the example, in addition to the turnover boxes 61 to 63, a turnover box having a height approximately four times that of the turnover box 61 can be provided separately, for example.

[0081] Moreover, in Figure 2 the shelf 50 shown, for every two pairs of guide rails 53 adjacent in the vertical direction, twelve sensors S11 to S14, S21 to S24, and S31 to S34 for detecting an object (i.e., the turnover boxes 61 to 63) are provided.

[0082] The sensors S11 to S14, S21 to S24, and S31 to S34 are, for example, non-contact sensors such as reflective or transmissive optical sensors and proximity sensors. Alternatively, the sensors S11 to S14, S21 to S24, and S31 to S34 may also be contact sensors such as limit switches.

[0083] Here, as Figure 5 shown, the sensor S11 is arranged to be located between the inner-side end of the tote box 61 housed in the shelf 50 and the inner door ID. Therefore, in Figure 5 the state where the tote box 61 shown is housed in the shelf 50, the sensor S11 does not detect the tote box 61. And, as will be described in detail later, as Figure 8 shown, when the tote box 61 moves toward the indoor side, the sensor S11 detects the tote box 61.

[0084] The same applies to the other sensors S12 to S14, S21 to S24, S31 to S34 and the other tote boxes 62, 63.

[0085] <Details of the guide rail 53 and the locking mechanism L11>

[0086] Here, in addition to Figures 3 to 5 , reference is also made to Figure 6 to describe the details of the guide rail 53 and the locking mechanism L11. Figure 6 is a top view showing the positional relationship between the guide rail 53 and the locking mechanism L11.

[0087] In addition, the same applies to the other locking mechanisms L12 to L14, L21 to L24, L31 to L34 and the other tote boxes 62, 63.

[0088] As Figures 3 to 5 shown, the protrusion 61a of the tote box 61 slides on the guide rail 53 extending in the x-axis direction, and the tote box 61 is carried into the shelf 50 and housed.

[0089] Figures 3 to 5 The locking mechanism L11 shown, for example, is an electromagnetic lock and includes a main body portion 54a, a pin 54b, and a roller 54c. As Figures 3 to 5 shown, the locking mechanism L11 is arranged below the inner-side end of the guide rail 53.

[0090] Here, as Figures 3 to 5 and Figure 6 shown, a cutout portion 53a for allowing the pin 54b and the roller 54c of the locking mechanism L11 to pass through is provided in the guide rail 53. A through hole may be provided instead of the cutout portion 53a.

[0091] The pin 54b of the locking mechanism L11 penetrates through the guide rail 53 and is urged by an elastic body such as a spring so as to contact the protruding portion 61a of the turnover box 61 that slides on the guide rail 53.

[0092] Here, a roller 54c is provided at the head end of the 54b that slides with the protruding portion 61a. The roller 54c is made of plastic, for example. By means of the roller 54c, the friction coefficient between the protruding portion 61a of the turnover box 61 and the locking mechanism L11 can be reduced, and the generation of wear powder can be suppressed.

[0093] As Figures 3 to 5 shown, on the lower surface of the protruding portion 61a of the turnover box 61, a recess (first recess) 61b is provided at the indoor side end when housed in the shelf 50, and a recess (second recess) 61c is provided at the outdoor side end. In addition, at the indoor side end and the outdoor side end (both ends in the sliding direction) of the protruding portion 61a, the lower surface is inclined so as to approach the upper surface from the horizontal plane, and the thickness of the protruding portion 61a becomes thinner toward both ends in the sliding direction. That is, tapered (gradually narrowing) portions are provided at both ends in the sliding direction of the protruding portion 61a.

[0094] In addition, the locking mechanism L11 may be provided on the upper side of the guide rail 53. In this case, a recess 61b and a recess 61c are provided on the upper surface of the protruding portion 61a of the turnover box 61. In addition, at both ends in the sliding direction of the protruding portion 61a, the upper surface is inclined so as to approach the lower surface from the horizontal plane, and the thickness of the protruding portion 61a becomes thinner toward both ends in the sliding direction.

[0095] Therefore, as Figure 4 shown, when the turnover box 61 is carried into the shelf 50, when the indoor side end of the protruding portion 61a of the turnover box 61 abuts against the roller 54c of the locking mechanism L11, the spring of the locking mechanism L11 is gradually physically compressed along the inclination of the indoor side end of the protruding portion 61a. With such a configuration, the indoor side end of the protruding portion 61a is difficult to be hooked by the locking mechanism L11, and the urging force of the locking mechanism L11 can be gradually increased. And in the state where the spring of the locking mechanism L11 is compressed, the lower surface of the protruding portion 61a slides with the roller 54c, and at the same time, the turnover box 61 moves toward the indoor side.

[0096] Then, as Figure 5 shown, when the recess 61b of the protruding portion 61a moves to the position of the locking mechanism L11, the compressed spring of the locking mechanism L11 is released, and the head end of the pin 54b, that is, the roller 54c, is inserted into the recess 61b. Therefore, the turnover box 61 is fixed to the housing 51, and the lid (not shown) of the turnover box 61 is locked. The locking mechanism L11 can prevent the turnover box 61 and the consumable items stored therein from being stolen.

[0097] Here, the turnover box 61 is locked while being housed in the shelf 50. Therefore, as the locking mechanism L11, an electromagnetic lock that uses the non-excited state (non-powered state) where the spring is released as the locked state can reduce power consumption.

[0098] On the other hand, as will be described in detail later, based on, for example, an unlocking instruction from the operator, the control unit 100 switches the locking mechanism L11 to the excited state (powered state) where the spring is compressed to release the lock. By unlocking, in Figure 5 , the convex portions (pin 54b and roller 54c) of the locking mechanism L11 retract from the concave portion 61b of the turnover box 61 (refer to Figure 7 described later). By unlocking, the turnover box 61 can be pulled out from the shelf 50 into the room.

[0099] In Figure 5 , when the turnover box 61 is pulled out from the shelf 50 into the room, the convex portions (pin 54b and roller 54c) of the locking mechanism L11 engage with the concave portion 61c of the turnover box 61, and the pulled-out turnover box 61 stops (refer to Figure 9 described later). That is, when the turnover box 61 is pulled out from the shelf 50, it is possible to prevent the turnover box 61 from falling off the shelf 50.

[0100] As described above, in the distribution shelf system according to the present embodiment, at the protruding portion 61a of the turnover box 61, a concave portion 61b is provided at the indoor-side end when the turnover box 61 is housed in the shelf 50. And at the indoor-side end of the shelf 50, a locking mechanism L11 is provided, and the locking mechanism L11 has convex portions (pin 54b and roller 54c) that are biased to insert into the concave portion 61b. Therefore, during the period when the turnover box 61 is housed in the shelf 50, the convex portions (pin 54b and roller 54c) of the locking mechanism L11 engage with the concave portion 61b of the turnover box 61, and the turnover box 61 can be locked to the shelf 50.

[0101] In addition, in the distribution shelf system according to the present embodiment, at the protruding portion 61a of the turnover box 61, a concave portion 61c is provided at the outdoor-side end when the turnover box 61 is housed in the shelf 50. Therefore, when the lock of the locking mechanism L11 is released and the turnover box 61 is pulled out from the shelf 50 into the room, the convex portions (pin 54b and roller 54c) of the locking mechanism L11 engage with the concave portion 61c of the turnover box 61, and the pulled-out turnover box 61 stops. That is, when the turnover box 61 is pulled out from the shelf 50, it is possible to prevent the turnover box 61 from falling off the shelf 50.

[0102] In this way, in the distribution shelf system according to the present embodiment, the turnover box 61 can be locked to the shelf 50 during the period when the turnover box 61 is housed in the shelf 50, and when the turnover box 61 is pulled out from the shelf 50, it is possible to prevent the turnover box 61 from falling off the shelf 50.

[0103] In addition, the locking mechanism L11 is not limited to an electromagnetic lock, as long as it can restrict the movement of the turnover box 61 and can lock the lid (not shown) of the turnover box 61. For example, the pin 54b can also act mechanically. Alternatively, a rotary locking mechanism that does not use the pin 54b can also be used.

[0104] Moreover, the locking of the movement of the turnover box 61 and the locking of the lid of the turnover box 61 can be performed separately.

[0105] <Operation of the delivery shelf system>

[0106] Next, the operation of the delivery shelf system according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0107] First, with reference to Figures 3 to 5 , the operation of, for example, a deliverer carrying the turnover box 61 into the shelf 50 from the outside will be described.

[0108] First, as Figure 3 shown, the outer door OD is opened, and the turnover box 61 is pushed in such a way that the protruding portion 61a of the turnover box 61 slides toward the indoor side on the guide rail 53.

[0109] Here, the locking mechanism L11 is in a non-excited state where the spring is released, and the sensor S11 is in a non-detection state where the turnover box 61 is not detected.

[0110] Next, as Figure 4 shown, when the indoor-side end portion of the protruding portion 61a of the turnover box 61 abuts against the roller 54c of the locking mechanism L11, the spring of the non-excited locking mechanism L11 is gradually physically compressed along the inclination of the indoor-side end portion of the protruding portion 61a. In the state where the spring of the locking mechanism L11 is compressed, the lower surface of the protruding portion 61a slides on the roller 54c, and at the same time, the turnover box 61 moves toward the indoor side.

[0111] Here, the locking mechanism L11 remains in the non-excited state, and the sensor S11 remains in the non-detection state.

[0112] Then, as Figure 5 shown, when the recess 61b provided at the indoor-side end portion of the protruding portion 61a moves to the position of the locking mechanism L11, the compressed spring of the locking mechanism L11 is released, and the head end portion of the pin 54b, that is, the roller 54c, is inserted into the recess 61b. Therefore, the turnover box 61 is fixed to the housing 51. Then, the outer door OD is closed.

[0113] In this way, at the protruding portion 61a of the tote box 61, a recess 61b is provided at the indoor-side end when the tote box 61 is housed in the shelf 50. And at the indoor-side end of the shelf 50, a locking mechanism L11 is provided, and the locking mechanism L11 has convex portions (pin 54b and roller 54c) that are biased to insert into the recess 61b. Therefore, as Figure 5 shown, during the period when the tote box 61 is housed in the shelf 50, the convex portions (pin 54b and roller 54c) of the locking mechanism L11 are engaged with the recess 61b of the tote box 61, and the tote box 61 can be locked to the shelf 50.

[0114] During this period, the locking mechanism L11 remains in the non-excited state, and the sensor S11 remains in the non-detecting state.

[0115] Next, with reference to Figures 7 to 9 , the operation of, for example, a recipient pulling out the tote box 61 from the shelf 50 will be described. Figures 7 to 9 is a schematic side view showing a situation where the tote box 61 is pulled out indoors from the housing location where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided in Figure 2 .

[0116] First, as Figure 7 shown, the inner door ID is opened, and the control unit 100 switches the locking mechanism L11 from the non-excited state to the excited state based on, for example, an unlocking instruction from the recipient. Therefore, the spring of the locking mechanism L11 is compressed, and the convex portions (pin 54b and roller 54c) of the locking mechanism L11 retract from the recess 61b of the tote box 61, and the locking is released.

[0117] Here, the sensor S11 remains in the non-detecting state.

[0118] Next, as Figure 8 shown, when, for example, a recipient pulls out the tote box 61, the protruding portion 61a of the tote box 61 slides toward the indoor side on the guide rail 53, and the sensor S11 detects the tote box 61. Therefore, the sensor S11 switches from the non-detecting state to the detecting state. Based on the signal from this sensor S11, the control unit 100 switches the locking mechanism L11 from the excited state to the non-excited state. That is, when the sensor S11 detects the tote box 61 after the locking mechanism L11 is switched to the excited state, the locking mechanism L11 returns to the non-excited state.

[0119] Here, the spring of the locking mechanism L11 is in a state of being physically compressed by the protruding portion 61a of the tote box 61, and the lower surface of the protruding portion 61a slides on the roller 54c while the tote box 61 moves toward the indoor side.

[0120] Then, as Figure 9As shown, when the recess 61c provided at the outdoor-side end of the protruding portion 61a of the turnover box 61 moves to the position of the locking mechanism L11, the spring of the compressed locking mechanism L11 is released, and the head end portion of the pin 54b, i.e., the roller 54c, fits into the recess 61c. Thus, the turnover box 61 is fixed to the housing 51 and stops. That is, when the turnover box 61 is pulled out from the shelf 50, it is possible to prevent the turnover box 61 from falling off the shelf 50.

[0121] Here, the locking mechanism L11 remains in the non-excited state, and the sensor S11 remains in the detection state.

[0122] In this way, in the protruding portion 61a of the turnover box 61, a recess 61c is provided at the outdoor-side end when the turnover box 61 is housed in the shelf 50. Therefore, as Figures 7 to 9 shown, when unlocking the locking mechanism L11 and pulling the turnover box 61 from the shelf 50 into the room, the convex portion (pin 54b and roller 54c) of the locking mechanism L11 engages with the recess 61c of the turnover box 61, and the pulled-out turnover box 61 stops. That is, when the turnover box 61 is pulled out from the shelf 50, it is possible to prevent the turnover box 61 from falling off the shelf 50.

[0123] In addition, a sensor S11 is provided to detect the movement of the turnover box 61 from the housing position of the turnover box 61 in the shelf 50 to the indoor side. Therefore, after the locking of the locking mechanism L11 is released and when the sensor S11 detects the movement of the turnover box 61, the control unit 100 switches the locking mechanism L11 from the unlocked state to the locked state. With such a configuration, by unlocking, the convex portion (pin 54b and roller 54c) retracts from the recess 61b, and when the turnover box 61 is pulled from the shelf 50 into the room, it is possible to automatically switch from the unlocked state to the locked state. Therefore, when the turnover box 61 is pulled out from the shelf 50, it is possible to automatically engage the convex portion (pin 54b and roller 54c) with the recess 61c and prevent the turnover box 61 from falling off the shelf 50.

[0124] Next, with reference to Figure 10 and Figure 11 , the operation of, for example, a recipient taking out the turnover box 61 from the shelf 50 will be described. Figure 10 、 Figure 11 show a schematic side view of the situation of taking out the turnover box 61 from the housing place provided with the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 in Figure 2 into the room.

[0125] First, as Figure 10 shown, based on, for example, an unlocking instruction from the recipient, the control unit 100 switches the locking mechanism L11 from the non-excited state to the excited state. Therefore, the spring of the locking mechanism L11 is compressed, and the convex portion (pin 54b and roller 54c) of the locking mechanism L11 retracts from the recess 61c of the turnover box 61, and the locking is released.

[0126] Here, the sensor S11 remains in the detection state.

[0127] Then, as Figure 11 shown, when, for example, the recipient takes out the tote box 61 from the shelf 50, the sensor S11 no longer detects the tote box 61. Therefore, the sensor S11 switches from the detection state to the non-detection state. Based on the signal from this sensor S11, the control unit 100 switches the locking mechanism L11 from the excited state to the non-excited state. That is, after the locking mechanism L11 is switched to the excited state, when the sensor S11 no longer detects the tote box 61, the locking mechanism L11 also returns to the non-excited state.

[0128] In addition, the control unit 100 may, after switching the locking mechanism L11 to the excited state, instead of depending on the signal from the sensor S11, after a predetermined time, return the locking mechanism L11 to the non-excited state.

[0129] Alternatively, instead of switching the locking mechanism L11 from the non-excited state to the excited state, the recipient can lift and take out the tote box 61.

[0130] Next, with reference to Figures 12 to 16 , the operation of, for example, the recipient pushing the tote box 61 into the shelf 50 from the room will be described. Figures 12 to 16 is a schematic side view showing a case where the tote box 61 is pushed into the accommodation place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided from the room. Figure 2 First, as

[0131] shown, the inner door ID is opened, and the tote box 61 is pushed in such a way that the protruding portion 61a of the tote box 61 slides on the guide rail 53 toward the outdoor side. At this time, the sensor S11 detects the tote box 61, and the sensor S11 switches from the non-detection state to the detection state. Figure 12 Next, as

[0132] shown, when the outdoor side end of the protruding portion 61a of the tote box 61 abuts against the roller 54c of the locking mechanism L11, the spring of the non-excited locking mechanism L11 is gradually physically compressed along the inclination of the outdoor side end of the protruding portion 61a. And in a state where the spring of the locking mechanism L11 is compressed, the lower surface of the protruding portion 61a slides on the roller 54c, and at the same time, the tote box 61 moves toward the outdoor side. Figure 12 and Figure 13 Here, the locking mechanism L11 remains in the non-excited state, and the sensor S11 remains in the detection state.

[0133] Next, as

[0134] shown, when Figure 14As shown, when the recess 61c provided at the outdoor-side end of the protruding portion 61a moves to the position of the locking mechanism L11, the spring of the locked locking mechanism L11 is released, and the head end portion of the pin 54b, i.e., the roller 54c, fits into the recess 61c.

[0135] Here, the locking mechanism L11 remains in the non-excited state, and the sensor S11 remains in the detection state.

[0136] As Figure 14 shown, the opening of the recess 61c provided at the outdoor-side end of the protruding portion 61a is inclined so as to expand toward the indoor side. Therefore, when the turnover box 61 is pushed back to the outdoor side, the recess 61c of the protruding portion 61a can pass over the convex portion (pin 54b and roller 54c) of the locking mechanism L11 without unlocking the locking mechanism L11. At this time, the spring of the non-excited locking mechanism L11 is gradually physically compressed along the inclination of the recess 61c of the protruding portion 61a.

[0137] In addition, when the opening of the recess 61c is not inclined in the same manner as the recess 61b, for example, based on an unlocking instruction from the recipient, the control unit 100 switches the locking mechanism L11 from the non-excited state to the excited state to release the lock.

[0138] Next, as Figure 15 shown, in a state where the spring of the locking mechanism L11 is compressed, the lower surface of the protruding portion 61a slides on the roller 54c, and at the same time, the turnover box 61 moves to the outdoor side.

[0139] Here, the locking mechanism L11 remains in the non-excited state, and the sensor S11 remains in the detection state.

[0140] Then, as Figure 16 shown, when the recess 61b provided at the indoor-side end of the protruding portion 61a moves to the position of the locking mechanism L11, the spring of the compressed locking mechanism L11 is released, and the head end portion of the pin 54b, i.e., the roller 54c, fits into the recess 61b. Therefore, the turnover box 61 is fixed to the housing 51. Then, the inner door ID is closed.

[0141] Here, the sensor S11 no longer detects the turnover box 61, switches from the detection state to the non-detection state, and the locking mechanism L11 remains in the non-excited state.

[0142] Finally, with reference to Figure 17 and Figure 18 , the operation of, for example, a delivery person taking out the turnover box 61 from the shelf 50 will be described. Figure 17 and Figure 18 are schematic side views showing a case where the turnover box 61 is taken out outdoors from the accommodation place where the sensor S11 and the locking mechanism L11 are provided in Figure 2 .

[0143] First, as Figure 17 shown, based on, for example, an unlocking instruction from the deliverer, the control unit 100 switches the locking mechanism L11 from the non-excited state to the excited state. Therefore, the spring of the locking mechanism L11 is compressed, and the convex portions (pin 54b and roller 54c) of the locking mechanism L11 retract from the concave portion 61b of the turnover box 61, unlocking it.

[0144] Here, the sensor S11 remains in the non-detection state.

[0145] Then, as Figure 18 shown, the protruding portion 61a of the turnover box 61 slides toward the indoor side on the guide rail 53, and the turnover box 61 is pulled out. Since the sensor S11 remains in the non-detection state, for example, after switching the locking mechanism L11 to the excited state, the control unit 100 returns the locking mechanism L11 to the non-excited state after a predetermined time.

[0146] Of course, based on an unlocking instruction from the deliverer, the locking mechanism L11 can also be switched from the excited state to the non-excited state.

[0147] As described above, in the shelving system for delivery according to the present embodiment, a concave portion 61b is provided at the indoor side end when the turnover box 61 is received by the shelf 50 on the protruding portion 61a of the turnover box 61. And a locking mechanism L11 is provided at the indoor side end of the shelf 50, and the locking mechanism L11 has convex portions (pin 54b and roller 54c) that are biased to insert into the concave portion 61b. Therefore, as Figure 5 shown, during the period when the turnover box 61 is received by the shelf 50, the convex portions (pin 54b and roller 54c) of the locking mechanism L11 are engaged with the concave portion 61b of the turnover box 61, and the turnover box 61 can be locked to the shelf 50.

[0148] In addition, in the shelving system for delivery according to the present embodiment, a concave portion 61c is provided at the outdoor side end when the turnover box 61 is received by the shelf 50 on the protruding portion 61a of the turnover box 61. Therefore, as Figures 7 to 9 shown, when unlocking the locking mechanism L11 and pulling the turnover box 61 from the shelf 50 toward the indoor side, the convex portions (pin 54b and roller 54c) of the locking mechanism L11 are engaged with the concave portion 61c of the turnover box 61, and the pulled-out turnover box 61 stops. That is, when pulling the turnover box 61 from the shelf 50, the turnover box 61 can be prevented from falling off the shelf 50.

[0149] In this way, in the shelving system for delivery according to the present embodiment, the turnover box 61 can be locked to the shelf 50 during the period when the turnover box 61 is received by the shelf 50, and the turnover box 61 can be prevented from falling off the shelf 50 when pulling the turnover box 61 from the shelf 50.

[0150] In the above example, the various programs include a set of commands (or software code) for causing a computer to perform one or more of the functions described in the embodiments when read into the computer. The various programs may also be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium or a tangible storage medium. By way of non-limiting example, the computer-readable medium or tangible storage medium includes random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, solid-state drive (SSD), or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, digital versatile disk (DVD), Blu-ray (registered trademark) disk, or other optical disk storage, cassette tape, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage, or other magnetic storage devices. The various programs may also be transmitted on a transitory computer-readable medium or communication medium. By way of non-limiting example, the transitory computer-readable medium or communication medium includes electrical, optical, acoustic, or other forms of propagated signals.

[0151] Based on the foregoing disclosure, it is apparent that the embodiments of the present invention can be varied in various ways. Such variations should not be regarded as departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these changes are included within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A shelving system for distribution, comprising: Shelves, which are arranged across the outdoor and indoor areas; and Turnover boxes, which are supported and accommodated by the shelves in a slidable manner, In the shelving system for distribution, the turnover boxes for distribution can be pushed into the shelves from the outdoor, and the turnover boxes accommodated in the shelves can be pulled out from the indoor, In the turnover box, a first recess is provided at the indoor-side end when it is accommodated in the shelf, and a second recess is provided at the outdoor-side end, A locking mechanism is provided at the indoor-side end of the shelf, and the locking mechanism has a convex portion that is biased to insert into the first recess and the second recess, During the period when the turnover box is accommodated in the shelf, the convex portion engages with the first recess to lock the turnover box to the shelf, When the convex portion retracts from the first recess by unlocking and the turnover box is pulled out from the shelf to the indoor, the convex portion engages with the second recess, and the pulled-out turnover box stops.

2. The shelving system for distribution according to claim 1, The second recess is inclined such that the opening portion expands toward the indoor side, When the pulled-out turnover box is pushed back into the shelf from the indoor, the second recess passes through the convex portion without unlocking.

3. The shelving system for distribution according to claim 1 or 2, It further comprises a sensor, which detects the movement of the turnover box from the accommodation position of the turnover box in the shelf to the indoor side, After unlocking, when the sensor detects the movement of the turnover box, it switches from the unlocked state to the locked state.

4. The shelving system for distribution according to claim 1 or 2, The locking mechanism is an electromagnetic lock that retracts the convex portion in the excited state to unlock.

5. The shelving system for distribution according to claim 1 or 2, A roller is provided at the head end of the convex portion.

6. The shelving system for distribution according to claim 1 or 2, The shelf has a housing and a pair of support bodies extending in the depth direction inside the housing, The turnover box has a protruding portion that protrudes outward in the width direction and slides on the pair of support bodies, The first recess and the second recess are provided on one of the upper surface and the lower surface of the protruding portion, and one of the upper surface and the lower surface slides with the convex portion of the locking mechanism.

7. The shelving system for distribution according to claim 6, At both ends of the protruding portion in the sliding direction, one of the upper surface and the lower surface is inclined to approach the other of the upper surface and the lower surface from the horizontal plane, and the thickness of the protruding portion becomes thinner toward both ends in the sliding direction.

8. A control method for a shelving system for distribution, the shelving system for distribution comprising: Shelves, which are arranged across the outdoor and indoor areas; and Turnover boxes, which are supported and accommodated by the shelves in a slidable manner, In the shelving system for distribution, the tote box for distribution can be pushed into the shelf from the outside and pulled out of the shelf from the inside. In the tote box, a first recess is provided at the indoor-side end when the tote box is received in the shelf, and a second recess is provided at the outdoor-side end when the tote box is received in the shelf. A locking mechanism is provided at the indoor-side end of the shelf. The locking mechanism has a convex portion that is biased to insert into the first recess and the second recess. During the period when the tote box is received in the shelf, the tote box is locked to the shelf by engaging the convex portion with the first recess. When the convex portion is retracted from the first recess by unlocking and the tote box is pulled out of the shelf to the inside, the pulled-out tote box is stopped by engaging the convex portion with the second recess.

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