Locker device

Abstract

The locker device is provided with a cabinet, a door for opening and closing the cabinet, a locking device for the door, an operation part, and a control device for controlling the locking device according to the operation of the operation part. The operation part comprises an authentication unit, and the control device locks the locking device to set the door to be in a closed state when luggage is stored in the cabinet box and taken out of the cabinet box. The operation unit includes a reopening button for instructing reopening of the door. The control device unlocks the locking device to allow the door to be reopened under the condition that the authentication made by the authentication unit is established when the luggage is stored in the cabinet box, the door is closed and the reopening button is operated within 15 minutes when the locking device is temporarily locked, and then the door is relocked when the door is closed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology disclosed in this specification relates to a locker device including a locker box capable of storing luggage, a door for opening and closing the locker box, and a locking device for unlocking the door. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as such technologies, there are known technologies described in, for example, Patent Documents 1 to 3. Patent Documents 1 to 3 describe technologies related to normally closed coin lockers whose doors are always temporarily locked when the coin lockers are not in use.

[0003] Conventional coin lockers are typically normally open, unlocking their doors when no luggage is stored. This can lead to the locker boxes being thrown into the trash or used as unauthorized luggage storage, creating issues with hygiene and theft prevention, and burdening operators with management. In contrast, the normally closed coin lockers described in Patent Documents 1 to 3 temporarily lock their doors even when no luggage is stored, reducing this management burden.

[0004] In recent years, the mainstream of normally closed coin-operated lockers has been lockers that do not use physical buttons, but instead electrically lock and unlock the locking mechanism. For example, a user uses an operating unit on the locker device to identify an available locker box based on a number and then specifies that number to pay the usage fee. Patent Documents 1 and 2 describe payment methods using cash, while Patent Document 3 describes a payment method using a credit card, etc. When the locker device responds to the payment operation and confirms the payment of the usage fee, the locking mechanism of the designated locker box is unlocked and the door is opened, allowing luggage to be deposited. When the user deposits luggage, closes the door, and confirms the operation, the locking mechanism is locked. When luggage is deposited in this manner, the user is given a stub containing the designated locker box number to facilitate luggage retrieval. For example, Patent Documents 1 and 2 describe a system in which a barcoded paper receipt is issued from a locker device as a receipt when luggage is deposited. When luggage is retrieved, the issued paper receipt is scanned by a barcode scanner, thereby identifying the user and unlocking the locker's designated compartment, thereby opening the door. Meanwhile, Patent Document 3 describes a system in which a serial number, barcode, QR code (registered trademark), or other two-dimensional code is used in place of a paper receipt to identify the user and unlock the locker. [Prior art literature] [Patent Document]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Utility Model Registration No. 3113126 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Utility Model Registration No. 3113263 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Utility Model Registration No. 3220448 Summary of the Invention [Problems to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Furthermore, in the normally closed locker devices described in Patent Documents 1 to 3, when a user deposits luggage into the locker and closes the door, the locking device is engaged, locking the door closed. In such cases, for example, a user may wish to retrieve luggage they left behind in the locker or re-deposit other luggage. In such cases, the user must unlock the locking device of the locker where the luggage was stored and reopen the door. In such situations, conventional normally closed locker devices require an operator to retrieve the luggage.

[0007] However, conventional normally closed locker systems require the user to re-deposit luggage after unloading it, closing the door and locking it again, forcing the user to pay a new usage fee. In this case, if the luggage has just been deposited, the locker box has not actually been used to store the luggage. Therefore, for the convenience of users, it is desirable to provide a locker system that allows the locker box door to be temporarily reopened without requiring the user to pay a new usage fee.

[0008] The present disclosure is based on the above reasons and aims to provide a locker device that allows users to re-deposit luggage after the luggage deposit operation is completed without forcing the user to pay new usage fees. [Technical means to solve the problem]

[0009] (1) To achieve the above-mentioned purpose, one aspect of the disclosed technology is a locker device comprising: a locker box capable of accommodating luggage; a door for opening and closing the locker box; a locking device for locking the door in an unlockable manner; an operating unit for accepting user operations; and a control device for controlling the locking device in accordance with the user's operation of the operating unit; the operating unit including an authentication unit for authenticating the user, the control device being configured to lock the locking device to lock the door in a closed state except when luggage is deposited into the locker box and when luggage is taken out of the locker box, and the purpose of the locker device is that the operating unit includes a door reopening button operable by the user to instruct the reopening of the door, and when the door reopening button is operated within a specified time from the time when the locking device is temporarily locked by depositing luggage into the locker box and closing the door, the control device unlocks the locking device to allow the door to be reopened on the condition that the authentication unit has successfully authenticated the user, and then relocks the locking device when the door is closed.

[0010] According to the configuration of (1) above, the locking device is unlocked to allow the door to be reopened if the door reopen button is operated within a specified time after the locking device is temporarily locked by depositing luggage in the locker and closing the door, and the authentication unit successfully authenticates the user. Thereafter, the locking device is relocked by closing the door. Therefore, for example, in the case where the user takes out forgotten luggage or deposits luggage again after depositing luggage in the locker, the door can be reopened or locked after being reclosed within the specified time based on the operation of the door reopen button and the successful authentication of the user, without paying a usage fee.

[0011] (2) To achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the following content is preferred, namely, in the structure of the above-mentioned (1), the operating unit includes a display unit for displaying at least one of a virtual button, an illustration of the locker device, and text, and the control device is configured to sequentially change the screen of the display unit from the standby screen according to the user's operation of the virtual button, and the standby screen displays a deposit button for the user to operate when depositing luggage into the locker box, a take-out button for the user to operate when taking luggage out of the locker box, and a reopening button in the form of virtual buttons. The reopening button is a button for the user to operate when putting luggage back into the locker box rather than when taking luggage out of the locker box. The deposit button and the take-out button are displayed in a horizontal arrangement on the standby screen, and the reopening button is adjacent to the take-out button and is smaller in size than the take-out button.

[0012] According to the configuration of (2) above, in addition to the functions of the configuration of (1) above, the deposit button and the take-out button are displayed as virtual buttons arranged horizontally on the standby screen, and the reopen button is adjacent to the upper side of the take-out button and is smaller in size than the take-out button. Here, the deposit button, which is used more frequently, is used for depositing luggage, and the take-out button, which is used more frequently, is used for taking luggage out. Therefore, their uses are different, and there is less risk of making a wrong choice during operation. In contrast, although the reopen button is used less frequently, it is used for operations such as re-inserting luggage, and its use is similar to that of the take-out button. Therefore, there is a risk of making a wrong choice between the reopen button and the take-out button during operation. In the above configuration, the reopen button is adjacent to the upper side of the take-out button and is smaller in size than the take-out button. Therefore, the take-out button is more conspicuous than the reopen button and is easier to distinguish. Therefore, there is less risk of making a wrong choice during operation of one or the other.

[0013] (3) To achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the following content is preferred, that is, in the structure of the above-mentioned (2), when the door reopening button is operated, the control device changes the display of the display unit from the standby screen to the confirmation screen, and the confirmation screen displays the annotation "The luggage can be put back within the specified time after depositing", the elapsed time after depositing, and the confirmation button as a virtual button.

[0014] According to the configuration of (3), in addition to the function of the configuration of (2), when the door reopening button is operated, the display of the display unit changes from the standby screen to the confirmation screen, and the confirmation screen displays a note "Luggage can be put back in within the specified time after storage" and the time elapsed after storage. Therefore, the user can confirm the content of the selected operation and the remaining time that can be operated.

[0015] (4) To achieve the above-mentioned object, the following content is preferred, namely, in the above-mentioned structure (3), when the confirmation button is operated, the control device changes the display of the display unit from the confirmation screen to the authentication selection screen, and the authentication selection screen displays the words "Re-insert luggage" and a plurality of authentication buttons for selecting one of a plurality of authentication methods.

[0016] According to the configuration of (4), in addition to the function of the configuration of (3), when the confirmation button is pressed, the display on the display unit changes from the confirmation screen to the authentication selection screen, and the words "re-deposit luggage" are displayed on the authentication selection screen. Therefore, the user can confirm that the operation has changed to re-depositing luggage, etc., rather than unloading luggage. In addition, since multiple authentication buttons for selecting one of multiple authentication methods are displayed, the user's operation of inputting the authentication method is simplified.

[0017] (5) To achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the following content is preferred, namely, in the above-mentioned configuration of (4), when one of the authentication buttons is operated, the control device changes the display of the display unit from the authentication selection screen to the authentication implementation screen, and the authentication implementation screen displays a diagram or the authentication unit and its annotations that urge the operation of the authentication unit corresponding to the selected authentication method.

[0018] According to the above-mentioned configuration (5), in addition to the function of the above-mentioned configuration (4), when one of the authentication buttons is operated, the display of the display unit is changed from the authentication selection screen to the authentication implementation screen, and a diagram or the authentication unit and its annotations that urge the operation of the authentication unit corresponding to the selected authentication method are displayed on the authentication implementation screen, so that the user's authentication implementation operation becomes easy.

[0019] (6) In order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the following content is preferred, that is, in the above-mentioned structure (5), an operating unit for the user to operate to request the locking device to lock when the user deposits luggage in the cabinet box and closes the door is provided on the door, and when the authentication unit is operated, the control device changes the display of the display unit from the authentication implementation screen to the cabinet box selection screen, and the cabinet box selection screen displays the number corresponding to the cabinet box where the user has deposited luggage, a selection button that can be operated to select the number, a note urging the operation of the operating unit after the luggage is deposited again, and a diagram of the operation of the operating unit.

[0020] According to the configuration of (6), in addition to the effects of the configuration of (5), when the authentication unit is operated, the display on the display unit changes from the authentication implementation screen to the locker selection screen, and the number corresponding to the locker in which the user has deposited the luggage and a selection button operable to select the number are displayed on the locker selection screen, thereby making it easy for the user to select the locker in which the luggage has been deposited. In addition, the operation of the operation unit that should be performed by the user after re-depositing the luggage (re-depositing the luggage) is prompted in an illustrated manner, thereby preventing the user from forgetting to operate the operation unit and thus preventing the user from forgetting to lock the door.

[0021] (7) To achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the following content is preferred, that is, in the above-mentioned structure (6), when the operating unit is operated, the control device causes the display part to change from the cabinet box selection screen to the end screen, and the words "Thank you for using" are displayed on the end screen.

[0022] According to the above-mentioned structure (7), in addition to the function of the above-mentioned structure (6), when the operating unit is operated, the display of the display part is changed from the cabinet box selection screen to the end screen and the words "Thank you for your use" are displayed on the end screen, thereby notifying the user of the completion of the re-deposit of the luggage.

[0023] (8) To achieve the above-mentioned object, it is preferred that, in the configuration of (1) or (3), the prescribed time for allowing the door to be reopened is 15 minutes after the locking device is temporarily locked.

[0024] According to the configuration of (8) above, in addition to the effects of the configuration of (1) or (3) above, 15 minutes can also be sufficient time for taking out forgotten luggage or re-depositing the luggage.

[0025] (9) To achieve the above-mentioned object, it is preferred that, in the configuration of (1) or (3), the control device is configured to allow the door to be reopened multiple times within a predetermined time.

[0026] According to the structure of (9), in addition to the effects of the structure of (1) or (3), the door is allowed to be reopened multiple times within a specified time, so the luggage can be re-deposited multiple times according to the needs of the user.

[0027] (10) To achieve the above-mentioned purpose, it is preferred that, in the configuration of (1) or (6) above, when there are multiple lockers in which luggage is stored by the same user, the control device will unlock only the locking device corresponding to the locker selected by operation of the operating unit.

[0028] According to the above-mentioned structure (10), in addition to the effects of the above-mentioned structure (1) or (6), when there are multiple lockers in which the same user has stored luggage, the corresponding locker box is selected by operating the operating unit, thereby only the locking device corresponding to the selected locker box is unlocked, so that the luggage can be re-deposited only in a specific locker box.

[0029] According to the technology described in (1) above, it is possible to deposit luggage again immediately after completing the luggage deposit operation without forcing the user to pay a new usage fee.

[0030] According to the technology described in (2), in addition to the effects of the technology described in (1), it is also possible to reduce the user's errors in operation selection and the need to repeat the operation between the door reopening button and the removal button.

[0031] According to the technology described in (3) above, in addition to the effects of the technology described in (2) above, the user can be urged to complete the re-entry of luggage within the specified time after the door reopening button is operated. In addition, the user's mistakes of wanting to continue the operation can be reduced.

[0032] According to the technology described in (4) above, in addition to the effects of the technology described in (3) above, the user's authentication method can be selected in a short time after the confirmation button is operated.

[0033] According to the technology described in (5) above, in addition to the effects of the technology described in (4) above, user authentication can be performed in a short time after the authentication button is operated.

[0034] According to the technology described in (6), in addition to the effects of the technology described in (5), the user can also determine the locker box where the luggage is to be re-deposited in a short time, and can more reliably lock the door of the locker box after re-depositing the luggage.

[0035] According to the technique described in (7) above, in addition to the effects of the technique described in (6) above, the user can also confirm the completion of the luggage re-depositing operation.

[0036] According to the technology described in (8) above, in addition to the effects of the technology described in (1) or (3) above, it is also possible to provide time-efficient convenience to users of the locker device.

[0037] According to the technology described in (9) above, in addition to the effects of the technology described in (1) or (3) above, it is also possible to provide users of the locker device with effective convenience in terms of frequency.

[0038] According to the technology described in (10) above, in addition to the effects of the technology described in (1) or (6) above, it is also possible to provide users of the locker device with the effective convenience of no operational loss. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] Figure 1 It is a front view showing the locker device according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the locker device according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 This is a standby screen displayed on the display unit when the door reopening mode is implemented according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 This is a confirmation screen displayed on the display unit when the door reopening mode is implemented according to the first embodiment. Figure 5 This is an authentication selection screen displayed on the display unit when the door reopening mode is executed according to the first embodiment. Figure 6 This is an authentication implementation screen displayed on the display unit when the door reopening mode is implemented according to the first embodiment. Figure 7 This is an authentication implementation screen displayed on the display unit when the door reopening mode is implemented according to the first embodiment. Figure 8 This is an authentication implementation screen displayed on the display unit when the door reopening mode is implemented according to the first embodiment. Figure 9 This is a cabinet selection screen displayed on the display unit when the door reopening mode is executed according to the first embodiment. Figure 10 This is a cabinet selection screen displayed on the display unit when the door reopening mode is executed according to the first embodiment. Figure 11 This is the end screen displayed on the display unit when the door reopening mode is implemented according to the first embodiment. Figure 12 This is the authentication selection screen displayed on the display unit when the user according to the first embodiment mistakes the removal button for the door reopen button and presses it. Figure 13 This is the authentication execution screen displayed on the display unit when the user according to the first embodiment mistakes the removal button for the door reopening button and presses it. Figure 14 This is the authentication execution screen displayed on the display unit when the user according to the first embodiment mistakes the removal button for the door reopen button and presses it. Figure 15 This is the authentication execution screen displayed on the display unit when the user according to the first embodiment mistakes the removal button for the door reopen button and presses it. Figure 16This is a locker selection screen displayed on the display unit when the luggage take-out mode is executed according to the first embodiment. Figure 17 This is the take-out confirmation screen displayed on the display unit when the user according to the first embodiment mistakes the take-out button for the door reopen button and presses it. Figure 18 This is a re-insertion confirmation screen displayed on the display unit when the user according to the first embodiment mistakes the removal button for the door reopening button and presses it. Figure 19 This is a drawer unlocking screen displayed on the display unit when the user according to the first embodiment mistakes the take-out button for the door reopening button and presses it. Figure 20 This is the end screen displayed on the display unit when the user according to the first embodiment mistakes the take-out button for the door reopen button and presses it. Figure 21 This is a first warning screen displayed on the display unit when the user according to the first embodiment mistakes the take-out button for the door reopen button and presses it. Figure 22 This is the second warning screen displayed on the display unit when the user according to the first embodiment mistakes the take-out button for the door reopen button and presses it. Figure 23 This is a drawer unlocking screen displayed on the display unit when the user according to the first embodiment mistakes the take-out button for the door reopening button and presses it. Figure 24 This is the end screen displayed on the display unit when the user according to the first embodiment mistakes the take-out button for the door reopen button and presses it. Figure 25 This is a standby screen displayed on the display unit when the door reopening mode is implemented according to the second embodiment. Figure 26 This is a door reopening confirmation screen displayed on the display unit when the door reopening mode is implemented according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, a specific embodiment of the locker device of the present disclosure will be described in detail.

[0041] <First embodiment> First, the first embodiment will be described.

[0042] [About the structure of the locker device] Figure 1 The locker device 1 is shown with the help of a front view. Figure 2The electrical structure of the locker device 1 is shown in the block diagram. The locker device 1 of this embodiment is installed in a railway station, for example, to temporarily store and keep luggage.

[0043] like Figure 1 As shown, the locker device 1 is composed of a shell 10, a plurality of cabinet boxes 11, an operating unit 20 and a control device 30. The plurality of cabinet boxes 11 can accommodate luggage in the shell 10. The operating unit 20 is used to accept user operations so that the user can store or retrieve luggage in the cabinet boxes 11. The control device 30 controls the opening and closing, locking and unlocking of the cabinet boxes 11 and the display of the operating unit 20 according to the user's operation of the operating unit 20.

[0044] [About the composition of the cabinet] like Figure 1 As shown, the locker device 1 includes a plurality of locker boxes 11 that can accommodate the user's luggage. Figure 1 As shown, there are 2 layers × 12 rows of 24 cabinet boxes 11 in total. Figure 1 The two upper right-hand rows and the one lower right-hand row contain a plurality of small cabinet boxes 11a with a small front height. Furthermore, the number of cabinet boxes 11 and small cabinet boxes 11a in this embodiment is only an example and can be increased or decreased as needed. In addition, although the locker device 1 in this embodiment is like Figure 1 As shown, the plurality of cabinet boxes 11 and the small cabinet box 11 a are configured with different front heights. However, all of the plurality of cabinet boxes may be configured with the same front height.

[0045] A door 12 that can be opened and closed independently for each cabinet box 11, 11a is provided at the opening portion of the front surface of each cabinet box 11, 11a. The cabinet box number (0001 to 0031) for identifying the corresponding cabinet box 11, 11a is marked on the surface of each door 12. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the door 12 is, for example, a left-opening door that opens toward the left side in the figure relative to the cabinet box 11, 11a, but can also be set as a right-opening door that opens toward the right side in the figure relative to the cabinet box 11, 11a. Furthermore, the locking device 13 described later (refer to Figure 2 ) is provided inside each of the cabinet boxes 11 and 11a. In this embodiment, the detailed description of the locking device 13 is omitted.

[0046] The door 12 of each cabinet 11 or 11a is provided with an operating lever 14 for the user to operate to request the locking device 13 to lock when the user stores the luggage in the cabinet 11 or 11a and closes the door 12. Figure 1 For the sake of convenience, the operating levers 14 are shown only on the doors 12 marked with door numbers "0001" and "0002", and are not shown on the other doors 12. The operating lever 14 is an example of the "operating unit" of the disclosed technology.

[0047] [About the structure of the operation unit] like Figure 1 As shown, the operating unit 20 includes a camera 21, a liquid crystal display unit 22, a QR code scanner 23, a settlement terminal 24, and a printer 26. The camera 21 is used to identify the user, the liquid crystal display unit 22 is used to exchange information with the user, the QR code scanner 23 is used to read data such as a QR code (registered trademark) from the user, the settlement terminal 24 can read IC tags embedded in cash cards, and the printer 26 is used to print receipts, etc., used to prove use. Data input from the user can be performed by the QR code scanner 23 and the settlement terminal 24. Here, the cash card is, for example, a card that can settle electronic money, such as a transportation IC card. Here, the display unit 22 of the operating unit 20, the QR code scanner 23, and the settlement terminal 24 serve as an example of an "authentication unit" in the disclosed technology. As described below, the display unit 22 displays at least one of virtual buttons, an illustration of a locker device, and text.

[0048] [Regarding the configuration of the control device] The control device 30 is disposed inside the operating unit 20 and controls the locking devices 13 of the cabinet boxes 11 and 11a according to the user's operation of the operating unit 20. Figure 2 As shown, the control device 30 includes a CPU 31 and a memory 32. The memory 32 stores, for example, a deposit program 32a for controlling when depositing luggage into the locker boxes 11 and 11a, and a retrieval program 32b for controlling when retrieval of luggage from the locker boxes 11 and 11a. The control device 30 is electrically connected to the locking device 13, the operating lever 14, and the operating unit 20, and controls the locking device 13, the screen display on the display unit 22, and the like based on the deposit program 32a or the retrieval program 32b. Figure 2 For convenience, only one locking device 13 is shown in the figure. However, in reality, the same number of locking devices 13 as there are locker boxes 11 and 11a are connected to the control device 30. Furthermore, a communication unit 50 is connected to the control device 30, and the locker device 1 can communicate with a management device (not shown) via the communication unit 50. The management device is a higher-level device relative to the locker devices 1 installed within the station or any other location.

[0049] This control device 30 opens and closes the door 12 of each cabinet box 11, 11a automatically by controlling locking device 13. In addition, the locking device 13 of present embodiment locks each door 12 in closed state all the time, manually opens when opening the door 12, and manually closes or automatically closes by means of spring etc. when closing the door 12.

[0050] The locker device 1 of this embodiment is a so-called "normally closed locker device", and the control device 30 is configured to lock the locking device 13 to lock the door 12 in a closed state except when luggage is stored in the locker box 11, 11a or when luggage is taken out from the locker box 11, 11a.

[0051] [About the procedure for checking in your luggage] Next, the procedure for a user to deposit luggage in the locker device 1 will be described.

[0052] The state in which no luggage is stored in the plurality of cabinets 11, 11a (a state in which a user can store luggage) is a "standby mode". In the standby mode, the cabinets 11, 11a are locked. At this time, the locking device 13 locks the doors 12 of the cabinets 11, 11a in a closed state.

[0053] In standby mode, the user first initiates a check-in on the operating unit 20 to deposit luggage into the locker compartments 11 and 11a. The control device 30 displays a virtual button on the display unit 22 for selecting deposit, and the user initiates the check-in by pressing the virtual button. A virtual button is a graphic icon displayed on the display unit 22, and is electrically activated by the user pressing it on the screen.

[0054] Thereafter, the control device 30 displays the usage fee on the display unit 22. The user who has confirmed the fee enters the usage data with the help of the QR code scanner 23 and the settlement terminal 24 to settle the fee. During the settlement, for example, the number inherent to the IC tag of the IC card read by the settlement terminal 24 is stored in the memory 32, and the data is used for authentication when the luggage is taken out. When the settlement is made, the control device 30 prints a receipt as proof of use through the printer 26. Furthermore, settlement is not limited to the form of using IC cards, and can also be other forms such as credit card settlement or QR code settlement, and multiple forms can also be selectively combined. In addition, when settlement is made in a manner other than IC card, a mark such as a QR code (registered trademark) for unlocking can also be printed on the receipt and authentication can be performed by reading the printed mark.

[0055] [About the procedure for taking out your luggage] Next, the procedure for a user to take out luggage from the locker device 1 will be described.

[0056] The user inputs the required data into the operating unit 20 to remove the luggage from the locker device 1. The control unit 30 displays a virtual button for selecting the removal option on the display unit 22, and the user begins processing by clicking this virtual button. In this case, if the daily usage fee of the locker device 1 is exceeded, such as when the locker device 1 is used over two days, the excess fee is deducted via a credit card or cashless settlement, and the balance is paid. When settlement is complete, the control unit 30 unlocks the locking device 13 and opens the door 12 of the locker box 11, 11a. The user removes the luggage from the locker box 11, 11a and closes the door 12. At this time, the control unit 30 locks the locking device 13 and locks the door 12 of the locker box 11, 11a in the closed state.

[0057] [Technical Features of the Locker Device of the Present Embodiment] In order to solve the problems of the above-mentioned conventional normally closed locker devices, the normally closed locker device 1 of this embodiment is constructed to be able to implement a "reopening door mode" for reopening the door 12, so as to allow free operations such as taking out luggage forgotten in the locker boxes 11, 11a after the luggage has just been deposited, and re-depositing luggage into the locker boxes 11, 11a.

[0058] About the operation of the reopening mode In the present embodiment, the control device 30 is configured to sequentially transition the screen of the display unit 22 from a predetermined “standby screen” in response to the user's operation of the virtual button. Figures 3 to 11 1 and 2. The transition screen displayed on the display unit 22 when the "reopening mode" is implemented is shown in FIG. The control device 30 controls the dialogue-style screen transition on the display unit 22 related to the "reopening mode" according to a preset stored program 32a.

[0059] First, when the user faces the display unit 22 of the operation unit 20, the control device 30 displays the Figure 3The "standby screen" shown in FIG. This standby screen displays multiple virtual buttons 60 that can be tapped. At the top of the standby screen are a deposit button 61, operated by the user to deposit luggage into the drawer 11 or 11a; a take-out button 62, operated by the user to take luggage out of the drawer 11 or 11a; and a reopen door button 63, operated by the user to instruct the door 12 to reopen. The reopen door button 63 is specifically operated when the user is re-depositing luggage into the drawer 11 or 11a, rather than when taking luggage out of the drawer 11 or 11a. On the standby screen, the deposit button 61 and take-out button 62 are displayed horizontally, with the reopen door button 63 positioned adjacent to the take-out button 62. The reopen door button 63 is approximately the same width as the take-out button 62, but smaller in height than the take-out button 62. Regarding this size setting, the take-out button 62, used to take out luggage more frequently than re-entering it, is made more prominent than the door-opening button 63 to prevent button manipulation errors. Furthermore, buttons 64 for instructing on luggage storage reservations, receipts, and outgoing luggage storage reservations are displayed in the middle layer of the standby screen. Furthermore, a management menu button 65 for selecting the management of the luggage, a button 66 for providing instructions on usage and the size of the locker, and a language button 67 for selecting the display language are displayed in the lower layer of the standby screen.

[0060] The user presses the door reopen button 63 on the standby screen to activate the door reopen mode. In this embodiment, the door 12 can be reopened free of charge within a specified time period immediately after luggage is deposited. In this embodiment, the specified time period is set to "within 15 minutes." Furthermore, in this embodiment, the door 12 can be reopened multiple times within "within 15 minutes."

[0061] When the door reopening button 63 is pressed, the control device 30 changes the display of the display unit 22 from the standby screen to the Figure 4 The "Confirmation Screen" shown in the figure is displayed. This confirmation screen displays text and multiple virtual buttons 60 that can be tapped. In the middle of this confirmation screen, a note stating "You can reload your luggage within 15 minutes of depositing it" and a small display 76 indicating the time elapsed since depositing it are displayed. Furthermore, in the lower layer of this confirmation screen, a Cancel button 68 for canceling the operation, a Confirm button 69 for confirming the operation, and a Back button 70 for returning to the previous operation are displayed.

[0062] The user presses the confirmation button 69 on the confirmation screen to confirm the "door reopening mode".

[0063] When the confirmation button 69 is pressed, the control device 30 changes the display of the display unit 22 to Figure 5The "Authentication Selection Screen" shown in FIG. The authentication selection screen displays text and a plurality of virtual buttons 60 that can be tapped to select an authentication method. The words "Replace Luggage" are displayed on the upper layer of the authentication selection screen. In addition, a plurality of authentication buttons for selecting one of a plurality of authentication methods are displayed in the middle layer of the authentication selection screen. That is, an IC card button 71 for selecting the use of an IC card, a QR code button 72 for selecting the use of a QR code (registered trademark), and a number input button 73 for selecting number input are displayed as authentication buttons in the middle layer of the authentication selection screen. In addition, a cancel button 68, a usage button 74 for indicating instructions on usage, and a language button 67 are displayed in the lower layer of the authentication selection screen.

[0064] The payment method when checking in luggage varies depending on the user, so the user clicks an appropriate button from among the various buttons 71 to 73 .

[0065] Here, when the IC card button 71 is pressed, the control device 30 changes the display of the display unit 22 from the authentication selection screen to the Figure 6 The "Authentication Implementation Screen" is shown. This authentication implementation screen displays text, diagrams, and virtual buttons 60 that can be tapped. The words "IC Card Authentication" are displayed at the top of the screen. Furthermore, a diagram and annotation urging the operation of the authentication unit corresponding to the selected authentication method are displayed in the middle of the screen. Specifically, the annotation "Please touch the settlement terminal with your IC card" and an illustration indicating this are displayed in the middle of the screen. Furthermore, a Cancel button 68 and a Back button 70 are displayed in the lower layer of the screen.

[0066] On the other hand, when the QR code button 72 is pressed, the control device 30 changes the display of the display unit 22 to Figure 7 The "Authentication Implementation Screen" is shown. This authentication implementation screen displays text, icons, and tappable virtual buttons 60. The words "QR Code Authentication" appear at the top of the screen. In the middle of the screen, a note appears, along with an icon indicating "Please hold the QR code to the scanner and scan it." Furthermore, a Cancel button 68 and a Back button 70 appear at the bottom of the screen.

[0067] When the number input button 73 is pressed, the control device 30 changes the display of the display unit 22 to Figure 8The "Authentication Implementation Screen" is shown. This authentication implementation screen displays text, icons, and tappable virtual buttons 60. The words "Number Authentication" are displayed at the top of the authentication implementation screen. Furthermore, the middle layer of the authentication implementation screen displays a note saying "Please enter your 6-digit reservation number," a keypad button 75 for number input, a small display 76 showing the entered number, and a confirmation button 69. Furthermore, the bottom layer of the authentication implementation screen displays a cancel button 68 and a return button 70.

[0068] The user performs authentication according to the authentication method corresponding to the selected one of the three authentication execution screens.

[0069] Here, it is assumed that the user follows Figure 6 In this case, the control device 30 changes the display of the display unit 22 from the authentication implementation screen to the authentication implementation screen. Figure 9 The "Box Selection Screen" is shown. This box selection screen displays text, an illustration, and virtual buttons 60 that can be tapped. The upper layer of this box selection screen displays a note that reads, "Please select the box in which you want to re-place your luggage," along with an illustration of a locker system. The illustration of the locker system displays the numbers corresponding to the boxes 11 and 11a where the user has deposited their luggage, along with selection buttons 80 that can be operated to select these numbers. In this illustration, the boxes with numbers corresponding to the boxes 11 and 11a serve as selection buttons 80. Furthermore, a cancel button 68 and a return button 70 are displayed at the lower layer of this box selection screen.

[0070] When there are multiple lockers, the corresponding lockers are displayed in a colored (eg green) manner in the locker device diagram on the locker selection screen. Figure 9 In the case where there are two boxes (boxes "0028" and "0029") that are the target, these two boxes are displayed in a colored manner in the diagram of the locker device ( Figure 9 The user selects one of the two cabinets to be unlocked by clicking. If there is only one cabinet, the control device 30 skips the display of the cabinet selection screen and switches to the Figure 10 The "cabinet selection screen" shown is displayed.

[0071] Figure 10 The cabinet selection screen displays text, diagrams, and a virtual button 60 that can be clicked. The top layer of the cabinet selection screen displays the note "Can open the door", and the middle layer of the screen displays the words "Cabinet No. 0028" indicating the cabinet to be selected and the virtual button 60 that can be clicked. Figure 9In this case, the locker box ( 0028 ) of the object is displayed in a colored (eg green) manner in the locker diagram. Figure 10 (The text is indicated by slashing in the middle.) Furthermore, a note urging the user to operate the operating lever 14 after re-stowing the luggage and a diagram illustrating the operation of the operating lever 14 are displayed at the bottom of the locker selection screen. Specifically, a note stating "Please lower the operating lever after re-stowing the luggage" and a diagram illustrating the operation of the operating lever 14 are displayed at the bottom of the locker selection screen.

[0072] When the locker selection screen is displayed, the locking device 13 of the locker box 11 or 11a of the actual locker device 1 is unlocked. The user opens the door 12 of the locker box 11 or 11a to take out forgotten luggage or re-deposit luggage from the locker box 11 or 11a, then closes the door 12 and lowers the operating lever 14 toward the closed side.

[0073] When the operating lever 14 is lowered toward the closed side, the control device 30 causes the display unit 22 to display Figure 11 The "end screen" shown. The note "Thank you for using" is displayed in the middle layer of the end screen. Thereafter, the control device 30 returns the display of the display unit 22 to Figure 3 The standby screen is shown.

[0074] The above is a series of explanations about the transition screen when the user correctly selects and presses the door reopen button 63 to implement the door reopen mode.

[0075] In contrast, when the user intends to implement the door reopening mode but Figure 3 If the take-out button 62 is mistakenly pressed for the door reopening button 63 on the standby screen shown, the screen of the display unit 22 changes as follows. Figures 12 to 24 The transition screen of the display unit 22 in this case is presented.

[0076] That is, the control device 30 changes the display of the display unit 22 to Figure 12 The "authentication selection screen" shown. The authentication selection screen displays text and multiple virtual buttons 60 that can be tapped to select an authentication method. The words "Take out" are displayed in the upper layer of the authentication selection screen. In addition, a plurality of authentication buttons for selecting one of the multiple authentication methods are displayed in the middle layer of the authentication selection screen. That is, an IC card button 71 for selecting the use of an IC card, a QR code button 72 for selecting the use of a QR code (registered trademark), and a number input button 73 for selecting number input are displayed as authentication buttons in the middle layer of the authentication selection screen. In addition, a cancel button 68 for canceling the operation, a usage button 74 for indicating instructions on usage, and a language button 67 are displayed in the lower layer of the authentication selection screen.

[0077] The payment method when checking in luggage varies depending on the user, so the user clicks an appropriate button from among the various buttons 71 to 73 .

[0078] Here, when the IC card button 71 is pressed, the control device 30 changes the display of the display unit 22 from the authentication selection screen to the Figure 13 The "Authentication Implementation Screen" is shown. This authentication implementation screen displays text, diagrams, and virtual buttons 60 that can be tapped. The words "IC Card Authentication" are displayed at the top of the screen. Furthermore, a diagram and annotation urging the operation of the authentication unit corresponding to the selected authentication method are displayed in the middle of the screen. Specifically, the annotation "Please touch the settlement terminal with your IC card" and an illustration indicating this are displayed in the middle of the screen. Furthermore, a Cancel button 68 and a Back button 70 are displayed in the lower layer of the screen.

[0079] On the other hand, when the QR code button 72 is pressed, the control device 30 changes the display of the display unit 22 to Figure 14 The "Authentication Implementation Screen" is shown. This authentication implementation screen displays text, icons, and tappable virtual buttons 60. The words "QR Code Authentication" appear at the top of the screen. In the middle of the screen, a note appears, along with an icon indicating "Please hold the QR code to the scanner and scan it." Furthermore, a Cancel button 68 and a Back button 70 appear at the bottom of the screen.

[0080] When the number input button 73 is pressed, the control device 30 changes the display of the display unit 22 to Figure 15 The "Authentication Implementation Screen" is shown. This authentication implementation screen displays text, icons, and tappable virtual buttons 60. The words "Number Authentication" are displayed at the top of the authentication implementation screen. Furthermore, the middle layer of the authentication implementation screen displays a note saying "Please enter your 6-digit reservation number," a keypad button 75 for number input, a small display 76 showing the entered number, and a confirmation button 69. Furthermore, the bottom layer of the authentication implementation screen displays a cancel button 68 and a return button 70.

[0081] The user performs authentication according to the authentication method corresponding to the selected one of the three authentication execution screens.

[0082] Here, it is assumed that the user follows Figure 13 In this case, the control device 30 changes the display of the display unit 22 from the authentication implementation screen to the authentication implementation screen. Figure 16The "locker selection screen" is shown. This locker selection screen displays text, diagrams, and virtual buttons 60 that can be tapped. The top layer of this locker selection screen displays the note "Please select the locker from which you want to retrieve your luggage." A diagram of the locker system and explanations related to the coloring in the diagram are displayed in the middle layer of this locker selection screen. The diagram of the locker system displays the numbers corresponding to the lockers 11 and 11a where the user has deposited their luggage, along with selection buttons 80 that can be operated to select these numbers. In this diagram, the lockers with numbers corresponding to the respective lockers 11 and 11a serve as selection buttons 80. Furthermore, a cancel button 68 and a return button 70 are displayed in the bottom layer of this locker selection screen.

[0083] When the user authenticates with an IC card, there may be multiple cabinets that are the target. Figure 16 In the illustration of the locker device on the locker box selection screen shown, the target locker box is displayed in a colored (eg green or yellow) manner. Figure 16 If there are multiple boxes that are the target, the corresponding boxes are displayed in a colored manner in the diagram of the locker device ( Figure 16 The user selects the cabinet box to be unlocked among the colored cabinet boxes by clicking. When there is only one cabinet box, the control device 30 skips the unlocking process. Figure 16 The drawer selection screen is displayed.

[0084] User in Figure 16 On the locker selection screen shown, click the locker you want to unlock among the colored lockers. If the locker is clicked within "15 minutes" after the luggage is stored, the control device 30 changes the display of the display unit 22 to Figure 17 The "Retrieval Confirmation Screen" shown in FIG. This Retrieval Confirmation Screen displays text and multiple virtual buttons 60 that can be tapped. The words "Retrieval Confirmation" and the note "This is a retrieval within 15 minutes of depositing your luggage. To deposit your luggage again, tap "Re-deposit Luggage." To retrieve your luggage, tap "Re-retrieve."" are displayed at the top of the Retrieval Confirmation Screen. A "Re-deposit Luggage" button 78, which indicates the re-deposit of luggage, and a "Re-retrieve Luggage" button 79, which indicates the re-retrieval of luggage, are displayed at the middle of the Retrieval Confirmation Screen. Furthermore, a "Cancel" button 68 is displayed at the bottom of the Retrieval Confirmation Screen. This Retrieval Confirmation Screen is provided in the present embodiment, assuming that a user intends to re-deposit their luggage but mistakenly taps the "Retrieve" button 62 instead of the "Reopen Door" button 63.

[0085] When the user selectively presses any one of the buttons 78 and 79 on the removal confirmation screen, the control device 30 changes the display of the display unit 22 to Figure 18The "Re-insert Confirmation Screen" shown or Figure 21 If the baggage is taken out again even though it is within 15 minutes, the re-entry confirmation screen and the locker unlocking screen will not be displayed.

[0086] When the user presses the button 78 for re-placing luggage on the take-out confirmation screen, the control device 30 changes the display of the display unit 22 to Figure 18 The "Re-deposit Confirmation Screen" is shown. This re-deposit confirmation screen displays text and multiple tappable virtual buttons 60. In the middle of this re-deposit confirmation screen, a note stating "You can re-deposit your luggage within 15 minutes of depositing it" and a small display 76 indicating the time elapsed since depositing it are displayed. Furthermore, a cancel button 68 and a confirm button 69 are displayed in the lower layer of this re-deposit confirmation screen.

[0087] Here, when the user presses the confirmation button 69, the control device 30 changes the display of the display unit 22 to Figure 19 The "locker box unlocking screen" shown. The locker box unlocking screen displays text, an illustration, and a virtual button 60 that can be clicked. The top layer of the locker box unlocking screen displays the note "Can open the door". The middle layer of the screen displays the words "locker box number 0028" indicating the locker box to be targeted and an illustration of the locker device. In this case, the locker box 81 of "0028" to be targeted is flashed in a colored (for example, green) manner in the illustration of the locker device. Figure 19 (The text is indicated by slash marks in the middle.) In addition, a note urging the user to operate the operating lever 14 after re-stowing the luggage and a diagram illustrating the operation of the operating lever 14 are displayed below the locker unlocking screen. Specifically, a note stating "Please lower the operating lever after re-stowing the luggage" and a diagram illustrating the operation of the operating lever 14 are displayed below the locker unlocking screen.

[0088] When the locker unlocking screen is displayed, the control device 30 actually unlocks the locking device 13 of the target locker 11 or 11a of the locker device 1. The user opens the door 12 of the locker 11 or 11a and takes out the luggage from the locker 11 or 11a, then closes the door 12 and lowers the operating lever 14 toward the closed side.

[0089] When the operating lever 14 is lowered toward the closed side, the control device 30 changes the display of the display unit 22 to Figure 20 The "end screen" shown. The note "Thank you for using" is displayed in the middle layer of the end screen. Thereafter, the control device 30 returns the display of the display unit 22 to Figure 3 The standby screen is shown.

[0090] On the other hand, when users Figure 17When the button 79 for still taking out is clicked on the take-out confirmation screen shown, the control device 30 changes the display of the display unit 22 to Figure 21 The "first warning screen" is shown. The first warning screen displays text and a tappable virtual button 60. A note reading "If you remove the item, this box will no longer be usable. Are you sure?" is displayed in the middle of the first warning screen. Furthermore, a confirmation button 69 and a return button 70 are displayed below the first warning screen.

[0091] When the user presses the confirmation button 69 on the first warning screen, the control device 30 changes the display of the display unit 22 to Figure 22 The second warning screen is displayed. This second warning screen displays text and a tappable virtual button 60. In the middle of this second warning screen, a note reads, "Warning: If you click 'Confirm,' your luggage will be deemed retrieved. We will not be responsible for lost luggage. Are you sure?" Furthermore, a confirmation button 69 and a return button 70 are displayed at the bottom of this second warning screen.

[0092] When the user Figure 22 When the confirmation button 69 is pressed on the second warning screen shown, the control device 30 causes the display unit 22 to display Figure 23 The "cabinet unlocking screen" shown in FIG. The cabinet unlocking screen displays text and a diagram that can be clicked. The note "Can open the door" is displayed on the upper layer of the cabinet unlocking screen. The words "cabinet number 0028" indicating the cabinet 81 to be the target and a diagram of the locker device are displayed in the middle layer of the cabinet unlocking screen. In this case, the cabinet 81 to be the target "0028" is made to flash in a colored (for example, green) manner in the diagram of the locker device on the cabinet unlocking screen ( Figure 23 In addition, a note "Please remove your luggage from the flashing locker" is displayed below the locker unlocking screen.

[0093] Figure 23 The flashing locker 81 in the illustration of the locker device displayed on the locker unlock screen is in motion to indicate the presence or absence of luggage in the actual locker 11 or 11a. When the locker unlock screen is displayed, the control device 30 controls the following manner: the locking device 13 is unlocked to open the door 12 of the locker 11 or 11a where the luggage is stored, and then the door 12 is closed, thereby locking the locking device 13.

[0094] Then, when the door 12 of the cabinet 11 from which the user has taken out the luggage is locked, the control device 30 changes the display of the display unit 22 to Figure 24The "end screen" shown in FIG. The middle layer of the end screen displays the note "Thank you for using. Looking forward to your use again." Thereafter, the control device 30 returns the display of the display unit 22 to Figure 3 The standby screen is shown.

[0095] [Regarding the functions and effects of locker devices] According to the structure of the locker device 1 of the present embodiment described above, in the operation of the above-mentioned reopening mode, when the reopening button 63 is operated within a specified time ("within 15 minutes" in the present embodiment) after the luggage is deposited in the locker box 11, 11a and the door 12 is closed and the locking device 13 is temporarily locked, the control device 30 unlocks the locking device 13 based on the fact that the authentication unit (display unit 22, QR code scanner 23 and settlement terminal 24) of the operating unit 20 has authenticated the user, so as to allow the door 12 to be reopened, and then re-locks the locking device 13 when the door 12 is closed.

[0096] Therefore, for example, when a user takes out luggage that was left in the locker 11 or 11a immediately after depositing luggage in the locker 11 or 11a, or deposits luggage again, the unlocked door 12 can be reopened and locked again after the door 12 is reclosed within a specified time period, based on the operation of the door reopening button 63 and the fact that the user has been authenticated, without having to pay a usage fee. Therefore, the user can deposit luggage again immediately after depositing luggage without being forced to pay a new usage fee.

[0097] According to the configuration of this embodiment, Figure 3 The standby screen shown displays a horizontal arrangement of virtual buttons 60: a deposit button 61 and a take-out button 62. A re-open button 63 is positioned adjacent to and above the take-out button 62 and is smaller than the take-out button 62. The frequently used deposit button 61 is used for depositing luggage, while the frequently used take-out button 62 is used for taking luggage out. These different uses reduce the risk of selecting the wrong button during operation. In contrast, the re-open button 63, while less frequently used, is used for re-stowing luggage, similar to the use of the take-out button 62. This creates the risk of misselecting either button. In this configuration, the re-open button 63 is positioned adjacent to and above the take-out button 62 and is smaller than the take-out button 62. This makes the take-out button 62 more visible and easily distinguishable from the re-open button 63, reducing the risk of misselecting either. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the user's error in operation selection and the need to redo the operation between the door reopening button 63 and the removal button 62 .

[0098] According to the configuration of this embodiment, Figure 3When the door reopening button 63 is operated on the standby screen shown, the display of the display unit 22 changes from the standby screen to Figure 4 The confirmation screen shown displays a note stating "You can reload your luggage within a specified time after loading" and the time elapsed since loading. This allows the user to confirm the details of the selected operation and the remaining time available. This ensures that after pressing the door reopen button 63, the user is urged to reload their luggage within the specified time, and can also reduce the likelihood of users attempting to continue operations.

[0099] According to the configuration of this embodiment, Figure 4 When the confirmation button 69 is operated on the confirmation screen shown, the display of the display unit 22 changes from the confirmation screen to Figure 5 The authentication selection screen shown in the figure displays the words "Re-deposit Luggage," allowing the user to confirm that the operation has been switched to re-depositing luggage, rather than unloading it. Furthermore, since multiple authentication buttons 71-73 are displayed for selecting one of multiple authentication methods, the user's operation of entering an authentication method is simplified. Therefore, the user can select an authentication method quickly after pressing the confirmation button 69.

[0100] According to the configuration of this embodiment, when one of the authentication buttons 71 to 73 is operated, the display of the display unit 22 changes from Figure 5 The authentication selection screen shown changes to Figures 6 to 8 The authentication execution screen shown in FIG. 1 shows an illustration prompting the user to operate the authentication unit (QR code scanner 23, payment terminal 24, etc.) corresponding to the selected authentication method, or displays the authentication unit (keypad button 75) and its annotations, thereby facilitating the user's authentication operation. Therefore, user authentication can be completed quickly after operating the authentication buttons 71 to 73.

[0101] According to the configuration of this embodiment, Figures 6 to 8 When the authentication means (QR code scanner 23, payment terminal 24, etc. and keypad button 75) on the authentication implementation screen shown is operated, the display of the display unit 22 changes from the authentication implementation screen to Figure 9 、 Figure 10The illustrated box selection screen displays the numbers corresponding to the boxes 11 and 11a where the user has deposited their luggage, along with a selection button 80 operable to select the numbers. This makes it easy for the user to select the box 11 and 11a where they have deposited their luggage. Furthermore, the user is prompted to operate the operating lever 14 after re-depositing their luggage (re-depositing luggage), thereby preventing them from forgetting to operate the operating lever 14 and, consequently, from forgetting to close or lock the door 12. Consequently, the user can quickly determine the box 11 and 11a in which to re-deposit their luggage, and can more reliably lock the door 12 of that box 11 and 11a after re-depositing their luggage.

[0102] According to the configuration of this embodiment, when the operating lever 14 is operated, the display of the display unit 22 changes from Figure 9 、 Figure 10 The displayed drawer selection screen changes to Figure 11 The end screen shown in FIG. 1 displays "Thank you for your use" on the end screen, thereby notifying the user of the completion of the luggage re-deposit operation. Therefore, the user can confirm the completion of the luggage re-deposit operation.

[0103] According to the configuration of this embodiment, the prescribed time period for reopening door 12 is 15 minutes after locking device 13 is temporarily locked. This 15 minutes provides ample time to retrieve forgotten items and re-deposit luggage. This provides users of locker device 1 with time-efficient convenience.

[0104] According to the configuration of this embodiment, the control device 30 is configured to allow the door 12 to be reopened multiple times within a predetermined time. Therefore, the user can re-deposit luggage multiple times as needed. Therefore, the user of the locker device 1 can seek effective convenience in terms of frequency.

[0105] According to the configuration of this embodiment, if the same user has multiple lockers 11, 11a in which luggage has been stored, the control device 30 unlocks only the locking device 13 corresponding to the locker 11, 11a selected by operating the operating unit 20. Therefore, if the same user has multiple lockers 11, 11a in which luggage has been stored, only the locking device 13 corresponding to the selected locker 11, 11a is unlocked by operating the operating unit 20, allowing luggage to be re-deposited only in the specific locker 11, 11a. This provides users of the locker device 1 with effective convenience without any work loss.

[0106] <Second embodiment> In the following description, the same reference numerals are given to the same components as those in the first embodiment, and their description is omitted, with the description focusing on the differences.

[0107] In this embodiment, the content of the transition screen displayed on the display unit 22 when the "door reopening mode" is implemented is different from that in the first embodiment. Figure 3 The door reopening button 63 is displayed on the standby screen shown. Figure 25 Another "Standby Screen" and Figure 26 Instead of the "Reopen Confirmation Screen" shown Figure 3 The standby screen is shown.

[0108] Here, Figure 25 The standby screen shown in FIG. 6 shows a deposit button 61 and a withdrawal button 62 arranged in the same size horizontally, and the door reopening button is not displayed above the withdrawal button 62. Figure 3 The buttons on the standby screen shown in the figure are the same. Figure 26 The door reopening confirmation screen shown has a middle layer in which a door reopening button 63 and a take-out button 62 are displayed in the same size and arranged side by side, and only a cancel button 68 is displayed on the lower layer of the screen.

[0109] According to the configuration of this embodiment, the door reopening button is not displayed on the standby screen, and the door reopening button 63 is displayed on the door reopening confirmation screen that is subsequently switched. This prevents the user from making an erroneous operation between the take-out button 62 for taking out luggage and the door reopening button 63 for putting luggage back in on the standby screen, and allows the user to confirm the existence and function of the door reopening button 63 again on the subsequent door reopening confirmation screen.

[0110] <Other Implementation Methods> The disclosed technology is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be implemented by changing part of the configuration as appropriate within the scope of the disclosed technology.

[0111] (1) In the above embodiment, the locker device 1 assumes that the user who deposits the luggage and the user who takes out the luggage are the same person. In contrast, it is also possible to assume that the user who deposits the luggage and the user who takes out the luggage are different people. Specifically, in recent years, the concept of using railway stations as logistics bases has become popular, so the following scenario is considered, that is, the transportation personnel who deliver the goods ordered by ordinary consumers become the users who deposit the goods, and the ordinary consumers who ordered the goods become the users who take out the goods. In this case, for example, a specific transportation personnel can use the locker device 1, and after the operation unit 20 authenticates the transportation personnel, the deposit program 32a is activated. Regarding the authentication when taking out the goods, for example, an authentication mark such as a QR code (registered trademark) can be sent to the mobile terminal of the ordinary consumer, and the retrieval program 32b is activated after the authentication of the mark.

[0112] (2) In the above embodiment, the locker device 1 installed in a station is specifically described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a parcel locker installed in an apartment or the like may also be used.

[0113] The disclosed technology can be used, for example, in locker devices installed in stations. Description of the label

[0114] 1…Locker device 11…cabinet 11a…Small cabinet 12…doors 13…Locking device 14…Operation lever (operation unit) 20…Operation Department 22…Display unit (authentication unit) 23…QR code scanner (authentication unit) 24…Settlement terminal (authentication unit) 30…Control device 63…Reopen door button 72…QR code button (authentication button) 73…Number input button (authentication button) 75…Keypad buttons (authentication unit) 80…Select button.

Claims

1. A locker device comprising: A cabinet box capable of storing luggage; A door, used for opening and closing the cabinet; a locking device for locking the door in an unlockable manner; an operation unit for accepting user operations; and a control device for controlling the locking device according to a user's operation of the operating portion; The operation unit includes an authentication unit for authenticating the user. The control device is configured to lock the locking device to lock the door in a closed state except when the luggage is stored in the locker box and when the luggage is taken out from the locker box. The locker device is characterized in that: The operating unit includes a door reopening button operable by a user to instruct the door to reopen. When the door reopening button is operated within a specified time after the luggage is stored in the cabinet and the door is closed and the locking device is temporarily locked, the control device unlocks the locking device to allow the door to be reopened based on the fact that the authentication unit has successfully authenticated the user, and then relocks the locking device when the door is closed.

2. The locker device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The operation unit includes a display unit that displays at least one of a virtual button, an illustration of a locker device, and text. The control device is configured to sequentially change the screen of the display unit from the standby screen according to the user's operation of the virtual button. The standby screen displays a deposit button for the user to deposit the luggage into the locker, a take-out button for the user to take the luggage out of the locker, and the door reopening button in the form of virtual buttons. The door reopening button is a button operated by the user when putting the luggage back into the cabinet rather than when taking the luggage out of the cabinet. The deposit button and the withdraw button are displayed in a horizontal arrangement on the standby screen, and the door reopening button is adjacently arranged on the upper side of the withdraw button and is smaller in size than the withdraw button.

3. The locker device according to claim 2, characterized in that: When the door reopening button is operated, the control device changes the display of the display unit from the standby screen to the confirmation screen. The confirmation screen displays a note "You can put your luggage back in within a specified time after depositing it," the time elapsed after depositing it, and the confirmation button as the virtual button.

4. The locker device according to claim 3, characterized in that: When the confirmation button is operated, the control device changes the display of the display unit from the confirmation screen to the authentication selection screen. The authentication selection screen displays the words "Replace luggage" and a plurality of authentication buttons for selecting one of a plurality of authentication methods.

5. The locker device according to claim 4, characterized in that: When one of the authentication buttons is operated, the control device changes the display of the display unit from the authentication selection screen to the authentication implementation screen. The authentication implementation screen displays an illustration prompting the operation of the authentication unit corresponding to the selected authentication method or the authentication unit and its annotation.

6. The locker device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The door is provided with an operating unit for the user to operate to request the locking device to lock when the user stores the luggage in the cabinet and closes the door. When the authentication unit is operated, the control device changes the display of the display unit from the authentication implementation screen to the cabinet box selection screen. The box selection screen displays the number corresponding to the box where the user has deposited the luggage, a selection button operable to select the number, a note urging the user to operate the operation unit after depositing the luggage again, and an illustration of the operation of the operation unit.

7. The locker device according to claim 6, characterized in that: When the operation unit is operated, the control device changes the display portion from the cabinet selection screen to the end screen. The words "Thank you for your use" are displayed on the end screen.

8. The locker device according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that: The prescribed time for allowing reopening of the door is 15 minutes from when the locking device is temporarily locked.

9. The locker device according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that: The control device is configured to allow the door to be reopened a plurality of times within the predetermined time.

10. The locker device according to claim 1 or 6, characterized in that: When there are a plurality of locker boxes in which the luggage is stored by the same user, the control device unlocks the locking device corresponding to only the locker box selected by the operation of the operating unit.

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