Information processing system and server, information processing method and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing system facilitating acquisition of an overall quantity of delivery objects by standardizing and managing the delivery objects (e.g. loads such as packages) using storage container type identification information and efficiently storing them in various storage spaces, management server, information processing method and program.SOLUTION: A control unit 10 of a management server in an information processing system, includes: a storage container type setting part 131 for setting storage container type information representing a type for every volume of a storage container for storing products purchased by a user based on purchased product information selected by the user; a remaining space calculation part 151 for calculating remaining space information representing a remaining space in a storage space based on reference storage space volume information representing a volume of the storage space for storing one or more storage containers, and the set storage container type information; and a consolidated object extraction part 152 for extracting consolidated object information representing consolidated objects storable in the remaining space of the storage object space.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing system, a server, an information processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, technologies relating to online electronic commerce (EC) sites such as online shopping and online electronic commerce on EC applications have been provided. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an EC site management device that extracts recommended products by taking into consideration multiple perspectives such as customer attributes, access logs, and related product information, and presents them to customers. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-282132 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The technology disclosed in the above Patent Document 1 is said to be able to display customer-specific product information that takes into account various perspectives on a user terminal, but does not take into account perspectives related to delivery.

[0005] In recent years, autonomously controlled mobile objects, such as drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), have begun to be used in industry. In this context, experimental operation of an information processing system has begun in which mobile objects deliver items (cargo), such as goods ordered by users on e-commerce sites, using mobile objects. While such information processing systems are expected to control multiple mobile objects, due to the nature of the experimental operation, virtual delivery items (e.g., daily necessities and food) are set within the range that can be loaded onto a single mobile object. However, in reality, users do not place orders while considering the load capacity of a single mobile object. They typically order the desired items at the desired timing and in the desired quantity, making it difficult to predict whether the items will fit on a single mobile object.

[0006] On the other hand, high delivery efficiency reduces delivery costs (and therefore delivery fees), so loading a large amount of cargo onto a single mobile vehicle is desirable for both service providers and users. However, as mentioned above, considering the variation in cargo size, it is difficult to determine how much space is remaining in the mobile vehicle's loading section, and therefore operation with high loading efficiency is desirable.

[0007] Therefore, the present invention has been made in consideration of this background, and aims to provide an information processing system, server, information processing method, and program that makes it easier to grasp the overall volume of deliveries and enables efficient storage in various storage spaces by standardizing and managing deliveries (e.g., cargo such as luggage) using storage container type identification information. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The main invention of the present invention for solving the above problem is an information processing system, which includes: a storage container type setting unit that sets storage container type information indicating the type of storage container for each volume of the storage container for storing the user's purchased items as deliveries based on purchased item information selected by the user; a residual space calculation unit that calculates residual space information indicating the remaining space within the storage space based on standard storage space volume information indicating the volume of the storage space that stores one or more of the storage containers and the set storage container type information; and a mixed load target delivery extraction unit that extracts mixed load target delivery information indicating deliveries by other users that can be mixed with the user's deliveries in the remaining space. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, by standardizing and managing deliveries (e.g., cargo such as luggage) using storage container type identification information, it is possible to provide an information processing system, server, information processing method, and program that make it easier to grasp the overall volume of deliveries and enable efficient storage in various storage spaces. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the management server of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the user terminal of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functions of the management server of FIG. 1. [Figure 5] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the structure of the storage in FIG. 2. [Figure 6] 1 is an example of a display screen according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 10 is an example illustrating calculation of a residual space according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the structure of a delivery information storage unit in FIG. 5. [Figure 9]1 is a flowchart of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 1 is an example of a display screen according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The details of the embodiments of the present invention will be described below. An information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration. [Item 1] a storage container type setting unit that sets storage container type information indicating the type of storage container for each volume of a storage container for storing the purchased product of the user as a delivery item based on the purchased product information selected by the user; a residual space calculation unit that calculates residual space information that indicates a residual space in the storage space based on reference storage space volume information that indicates a volume of a storage space that stores one or more storage vessels and the set storage vessel type information; a mixed delivery extraction unit that extracts mixed delivery information indicating deliveries of other users that can be mixed into the remaining space for the user's delivery; An information processing system comprising: [Item 2] The containment vessel type information is distinguishable from one another based on a volume obtained by dividing a predetermined containment space volume as a reference containment space volume by a predetermined number. 2. The information processing system according to item 1, [Item 3] The remaining space information is remaining-containment vessel type information obtained by converting the remaining space into a containment vessel type. 3. The information processing system according to item 1 or 2, [Item 4] a data management unit that receives a selection of estimated delivery time information regarding delivery from the user before the user selects the purchased item, and updates delivery information; 4. The information processing system according to any one of items 1 to 3. [Item 5] a storage container type setting unit that sets storage container type information indicating the type of storage container for each volume of a storage container for storing the purchased product of the user as a delivery item based on the purchased product information selected by the user; a residual space calculation unit that calculates residual space information that indicates a residual space in the storage space based on reference storage space volume information that indicates a volume of a storage space that stores one or more storage vessels and the set storage vessel type information; a mixed delivery extraction unit that extracts mixed delivery information indicating deliveries of other users that can be mixed into the remaining space for the user's delivery; A server comprising: [Item 6] a step of setting, by a storage container type setting unit, storage container type information indicating a type of storage container for each volume of a storage container for storing the purchased product of the user as a delivery item, based on the purchased product information selected by the user; a step of calculating residual space information indicating a residual space in the storage space based on reference storage space volume information indicating a volume of a storage space that stores one or more storage vessels and the set storage vessel type information by a residual space calculation unit; and extracting, by a consolidation target delivery extraction unit, consolidation target delivery information indicating deliveries of other users that can consolidate the user's delivery items into the remaining space. 1. An information processing method comprising: [Item 7] a step of setting, by a storage container type setting unit, storage container type information indicating a type of storage container for each volume of a storage container for storing the purchased product of the user as a delivery item, based on the purchased product information selected by the user; a step of calculating residual space information indicating a residual space in the storage space based on reference storage space volume information indicating a volume of a storage space that stores one or more storage vessels and the set storage vessel type information by a residual space calculation unit; and extracting, by a consolidation target delivery extraction unit, consolidation target delivery information indicating deliveries of other users that can consolidate the user's delivery items into the remaining space. A program characterized by:

[0012] <First Embodiment> An information system according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described below. In the accompanying drawings, identical or similar elements are given identical or similar reference symbols and names, and duplicate descriptions of identical or similar elements may be omitted in the description of each embodiment. Furthermore, the features shown in this embodiment may also be applied to other embodiments as long as they are not mutually inconsistent.

[0013] <Configuration> 1, the information processing system according to this embodiment includes a management server 1 and one or more user terminals 2. The management server 1 and the user terminals 2 are connected to each other via a network so that they can communicate with each other. Note that the illustrated configuration is an example and is not limiting.

[0014] <Administration Server 1> 2 is a diagram showing the hardware configuration of the management server 1. Note that the configuration shown in the figure is an example, and the management server 1 may have other configurations.

[0015] As shown in the figure, a management server 1 is connected to multiple user terminals 2 and constitutes part of this system. The management server 1 may be a general-purpose computer such as a workstation or personal computer, or may be logically realized by cloud computing.

[0016] The management server 1 includes at least a control unit 10, a memory 11, a storage 12, a transmission / reception unit 13, an input / output unit 14, etc., which are electrically connected to one another via a bus 15.

[0017] The control unit 10 is a computing device that controls the overall operation of the management server 1, controls the transmission and reception of data between each element, and performs information processing necessary for application execution and authentication processing. For example, the control unit 10 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and / or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and executes programs for this system stored in the storage 12 and deployed in the memory 11 to perform various information processing.

[0018] The memory 11 includes a main memory configured with a volatile storage device such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), and an auxiliary memory configured with a non-volatile storage device such as a flash memory or an HDD (Hard Disc Drive). The memory 11 is used as a work area for the processor 10, and also stores a BIOS (Basic Input / Output System) that is executed when the management server 1 starts up, various setting information, etc.

[0019] The storage 12 stores various programs such as application programs. A database that stores data used for each process may be constructed in the storage 12.

[0020] The transmitting / receiving unit 13 connects the management server 1 to the network and the blockchain network. The transmitting / receiving unit 13 may include a short-range communication interface for Bluetooth (registered trademark) and BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy).

[0021] The input / output unit 14 is an information input device such as a keyboard and a mouse, and an output device such as a display.

[0022] A bus 15 is commonly connected to the above elements and transmits, for example, address signals, data signals and various control signals.

[0023] <User device 2> 3 is an information processing device owned by a user, such as a personal computer, tablet terminal, smartphone, mobile phone, PHS, or PDA, and the user terminal 2 also includes a control unit 20, memory 21, storage 22, a transmission / reception unit 23, an input / output unit 24, etc., which are electrically connected to each other via a bus 25. The main functions of each element can be configured in the same way as the management server 1 described above, so detailed explanations of each element will be omitted.

[0024] <Management server functions> FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating functions implemented in the control unit 10 of the management server 1, and FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating information stored in the storage 12. In this embodiment, the control unit 10 of the management server 1 has, as functional units, an information transmission / reception unit 100, a screen information generation unit 110, a data management unit 120, a product purchase management unit 130, and a delivery management unit 150. The product purchase management unit 130 includes a storage container type setting unit 131. The delivery management unit 150 includes a remaining space calculation unit 151 and a consolidated delivery extraction unit 152. In addition, the storage 12 includes various databases, such as a user information storage unit 121, a product information storage unit 122, a delivery item information storage unit 123, and a delivery information storage unit 124.

[0025] The user information stored in the user information storage unit 121 may include, for example, basic user information (user name, username, email address, address, telephone number, etc.), user identification information, payment information (credit card information, etc.), external application account information, purchased product information (including purchase cost information), purchase history information, desired product information (so-called favorite product information, wish list product information, etc., which may contain some or all of the same information as the product information described below), and regular purchase product information (described below), but is not limited to these.

[0026] The product information stored in the product information storage unit 122 may include, for example, product identification information, product name information, manufacturer name information, seller name information, product category information (food, beverages, alcoholic beverages, sweets, household goods, cosmetics, etc.), price information, size information (depth, width, height), weight information, temperature range management information, and information on whether or not the product can be loaded on top or bottom (information on whether or not the product can be loaded on top or bottom), but is not limited to these.

[0027] The delivery information stored in the delivery information storage unit 123 may include, for example, delivery identification information, user identification information, storage container type information, size information (depth, width, height), weight information, controlled temperature range information, top / bottom loading availability information (top loading availability information or bottom loading availability information), mixed loading target delivery information, delivery cost information, etc., but is not limited to these.

[0028] The delivery information stored in the delivery information storage unit 124 includes, for example, delivery identification information, user identification information, delivery item identification information, remaining space information, delivery item information to be mixed, delivery type information, scheduled delivery time information (scheduled delivery start time information, scheduled delivery end time information, scheduled delivery time zone information), etc., and may also include, but is not limited to, storage container type information, weight information, controlled temperature range information, delivery cost information, etc. linked to delivery item identification information.

[0029] The information transmission / reception unit 100 transmits various information (including requests) to external devices (e.g., user terminal 2, etc.) directly or indirectly connected to the management server 1 at least via a network, and receives various information (including requests) from external devices.

[0030] The screen information generating unit 110 generates screen information to be displayed via the user interface of the user terminal 2. The screen information may be, for example, user interface screen information generated by arranging various images and text based on a predetermined layout rule using image and text data stored in the storage 12 as material. The screen information generating unit 110 may also be a functional unit executed by the control unit 20 by an application (including a web browser) stored in each user terminal 2. That is, the management server 1 may transmit information necessary for generating a user interface screen, such as image data, and the application of the user terminal 2 may generate a user interface screen based on the necessary information in accordance with a predetermined layout rule and display it on the user terminal 2. Processing related to the screen information generating unit 110 may also be executed by a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit).

[0031] The data management unit 120 performs data management such as transmitting various information received by the information transmission / reception unit 100 to various functional units and acquiring various information from various functional units. Predetermined processes in the data management unit 120 include, for example, a usage registration process of assigning user identification information to a user in accordance with a usage registration request and user information etc. received from the user terminal 2 and storing and managing the user information in the user information storage unit 121, a product presentation process of presenting product list information (see FIG. 6 ) by referring to the product information storage unit 122 in accordance with a product viewing request etc. from the user terminal 2, a purchase product information update process (including a process of updating the purchase product confirmation area 620) of updating purchase product information linked to the user identification information in accordance with a selection operation on the product display area 610 of the product list information as exemplified in FIG. 6 , and a process of updating the user's purchased products (including products to be purchased) based on the purchase product information. This includes, but is not limited to, various processes such as a storage container setting process that sets storage container type information indicating the type of storage container for each volume for storing items, a remaining space calculation process that calculates the remaining space in the storage space based on reference storage space volume information indicating the volume of the storage space that stores one or more storage containers and the set storage container type information, a mixed delivery extraction process that extracts mixed delivery information indicating deliveries from other users that can be mixed with the user's deliveries in the remaining space, a purchase process (payment process, etc.) to purchase items included in the purchased product information, and a delivery information update process that updates (including adding) mixed delivery item information included in the delivery information (such as delivery item identification information that has been mixed with the user).

[0032] The product purchase management unit 130 executes predetermined processes related to product purchases and manages predetermined information related to product purchases. For example, the product purchase management unit 130 executes purchase processing including predetermined procedures based on purchase product information (including planned purchase product information such as a virtual shopping cart) selected by the user from a product list or the like presented by an e-commerce application (including the case where it is executed by a web browser) executed on the user terminal 2, and manages purchase history information (product ID, purchase date, purchase amount, etc.) linked to user identification information (so-called user ID).

[0033] The storage container type setting unit 131 sets storage container type information indicating the type of storage container for each volume of the storage container for storing the purchased products of the user, based on the purchased product information linked to the user identification information. The shape of the storage container is, for example, a three-dimensional container with a geometric shape, and is preferably a rectangular parallelepiped (including a cube) in consideration of storage in a storage space, stacking, etc. The material of the storage container may be any material, such as paper, plastic, metal, etc., and cardboard made of paper or cardboard made of plastic is particularly preferable from the viewpoint of ease of production and weight. Here, in the present invention, the storage container type information is set so that the type of storage container for storing the purchased products can be identified. The containment vessel type may be, for example, a plurality of containment vessel volume types that are set to be distinguishable from one another based on a volume obtained by dividing a predetermined containment space volume as a reference containment space volume by a predetermined number (e.g., an integer) (for example, it may include a plurality of containment vessel volume types that are set to be distinguishable for each containment vessel volume obtained by dividing the reference containment space volume by a predetermined number (e.g., an integer) and multiplying the result by a number equal to or less than the predetermined number (e.g., 1 / 3, 2 / 3, 1, 1 / 4, 1 / 2, 3 / 4, 1, etc.), or it may include a plurality of containment vessel volume types that are set to be distinguishable for each containment vessel volume divided by a predetermined number (for example, which may be an integer, and in particular may be 2 to the nth power (n is an integer that may include 0)) (e.g., 1 / 2, 1 / 4, 1 / 8, etc.), but is not limited to these). Furthermore, more specifically, with regard to the volume of the storage vessel, for example, when the reference storage space volume is divided by 4 (i.e., 1 / 4), the storage vessel may have a volume obtained by dividing any one of the depth, width, or height of the storage space by 4, or the storage vessel may have a volume obtained by dividing two of the depth, width, or height of the storage space by 2.

[0034] In addition, the reference storage space volume does not have to be the same volume as the specified storage space volume, but may be substantially the same (approximately the same) volume, and may be a volume minus the amount of excess space (e.g., a few millimeters or centimeters) required, particularly in consideration of the storage work of the container in the storage space, or if a partition is installed inside the storage container, may be a volume minus the amount of the partition (e.g., a few millimeters or centimeters) (or the storage space may have substantially the same volume as the reference storage space volume, but be larger by the amount of the partition).

[0035] The storage space for storing a user's stored items and / or the storage space that is the target of the reference storage space volume may be any space having a predetermined volume, but is preferably a storage space for receiving stored items. More specifically, it may be an installed object used by a user, such as a user's storage space, a smart-locked delivery box installed in a private home or a delivery box located in a common area of ​​an apartment building (the location of the space may be determined in advance by linking it to information related to the user, or it may be a location where the delivery person stores the package by linking it to information related to the user), a shelf, locker, post office box, or insulated box that does not require electrical locking and unlocking control. The reference may also be a storage space for delivery, or a delivery item storage section of a mobile object for delivering packages (such as a mobile object such as a UAV or UGV, especially an autonomously controlled mobile object), a loading platform used by a delivery person for delivery (e.g., a truck loading platform, a motorcycle rear box, a box cart, a basket cart, etc.), or a mobile object such as a delivery bag. Furthermore, the space having a predetermined volume may be a space whose depth, width, and height lengths are fixed as described above, but it may also be a space whose volume is set by imaginarily setting a height length for an area whose depth and width lengths are fixed, such as a pallet, or a space whose volume is set by imaginarily setting a portion of the depth, width, and height lengths. However, this is not limited to these. Furthermore, the storage space to be stored and the reference storage space may be the same, or the storage space to be stored may be the size of the reference storage space multiplied by a predetermined number (especially an integer).

[0036] To set the storage container type information, the storage container type setting unit 131 first reads at least size information (depth, width, and height) corresponding to each purchased item (including items after purchase processing and items planned for purchase) from the product information storage unit 122 based on the purchased item information linked to the user identification information, and then virtually stores the purchased items in containers of each storage container type using a known packing calculation algorithm for storing predetermined objects in a space of a predetermined volume, thereby selecting an appropriate storage container type. The appropriate storage container type here is preferably a storage container type of the smallest size capable of storing the purchased items from the perspective of subsequent storage efficiency in the storage space. However, it is not limited to the smallest, and may be a storage container type that is one to two sizes larger than the smallest size that can be stored, taking into account size errors due to individual product differences and cushioning materials (such as foam cushioning or air-filled vinyl cushioning). Furthermore, the selection of the storage container type is not limited to the selection of a single storage container, and may also include the selection of multiple storage containers. For example, if the purchased items include items that are strictly prohibited from being stacked, in order to reliably prevent stacking, the storage container in which the prohibited items are stored may be set as a separate storage container that is strictly prohibited from being stacked and may be determined to be stored in the upper part of the storage space.Otherwise, for example, in consideration of the load on the mobile object, two storage containers with the same or nearest capacity may be selected, or two storage containers with the same or nearest weight may be selected so as to avoid bias in the center of gravity or to divide the delivery into two, or if the volume of the purchased items exceeds the storage space, two storage containers may be selected, one with approximately the same volume as the reference storage space volume and one that can store the remaining purchased items.

[0037] The delivery management unit 150 updates information in the delivery information storage unit 123, such as adding delivery identification information and associating user identification information, in response to a request from a user, for example, before or after product selection or payment, and updates information in the delivery information storage unit 124, such as adding delivery identification information and associating user identification information.

[0038] The residual space calculation unit 151 calculates the residual space (i.e., empty space) within the target containment space based on reference containment space volume information indicating the volume of the containment space containing one or more containment vessels and the containment vessel type information set by the containment vessel type setting unit 131. The residual space is calculated using a known packing calculation algorithm for storing a specified object in a space of a specified volume. Here, the calculation result of the residual space can be a volume value that can be easily converted to the containment vessel type, especially when the containment vessel type is specified for each specified volume relative to the reference containment space volume according to a specified rule as described above. In other words, the residual space information can also be used as residual-converted containment vessel type information, which converts the residual space into the containment vessel type, and this conversion facilitates the comparison described below.

[0039] Here, a simplified explanation will be given of an example of calculating the remaining space when the containment vessel type is defined for each predetermined volume relative to the reference containment space volume using Fig. 7. The containment vessel is exemplified for a plurality of containment vessel volume types (e.g., 1 / 3, 2 / 3, 1) that are set identifiable for each containment vessel volume obtained by dividing the height relative to the reference containment space volume by 3 and multiplying the result by a number equal to or less than 3.

[0040] First, the virtual storage space associated with delivery identification information "0001" is associated with user information "U0001." If a delivery (delivery information "N0001") stored in a container (container type "S033") with one-third of the reference storage space volume is virtually stored here, the delivery will be stored in an unused storage space, so the remaining space information is updated to "2 / 3" by subtracting 1 / 3 from 1, and the remaining equivalent storage container type information is updated to indicate two "S033"s and / or one "S066 (container type indicating a container with two-thirds of the reference storage space volume)."

[0041] Similarly, if a delivery item (delivery item information "N0010") stored in a container (storage container type "S033") with one-third of the standard storage space volume is to be virtually stored further, the remaining space information is updated to "1 / 3" by subtracting 1 / 3 from 2 / 3, and the remaining equivalent storage container type information is updated to indicate one "S033".

[0042] The remaining space is calculated in this manner, and can be more easily calculated by dividing the depth, width, or height of the storage space by a predetermined number, as shown in the example. Note that, as mentioned above, a more sophisticated remaining space calculation is possible using a known packing calculation algorithm.

[0043] Next, an example of information (especially remaining space information) stored in the delivery information storage unit 124 will be shown using Figure 8. First, for delivery identification information "0001," the linked delivery information is "N0001," the user information is "U0001," and it is shown that one storage container type information, "S025," which indicates a container type with a quarter of the reference storage space volume, is stored, so the remaining space information is calculated as "3 / 4" (the remaining converted storage container type information is "S075," which indicates a container type with a three-quarters of the reference storage space volume).

[0044] Next, for delivery identification information "0002," the linked delivery information is "N0002," the user information is "U0011," and it is shown that one storage container type information, "S050," which indicates a container type with half the standard storage space volume, is stored, so the residual space information is calculated as "1 / 2" (the residual converted storage container type information is "S050," which indicates a container type with half the standard storage space volume).

[0045] Next, for delivery identification information "0003," the linked delivery item information is "N0003," the user information is "U0005," and the storage container type information indicates that one "S100" has been stored, which indicates a container type that is approximately the same as the standard storage space volume, so the remaining space information is calculated as "0" (i.e., no space available).

[0046] Next, for delivery identification information "0004," the linked delivery item information is "N0004," the user information is "U0003," and the storage container type information shows that one of the above-mentioned "S025" (for example, the top-bottom loading possibility information indicates that top-loading is strictly prohibited) and one "S050" is stored, so the remaining space information is calculated as "1 / 4" (the remaining converted storage container type information is "S025," which indicates a container type with one-quarter of the standard storage space volume).

[0047] Next, for delivery identification information "0005" and "0006," the linked delivery information is "N0005" and "N0006," the user information is "U0009," and the storage container type information indicates that one "S100" and one "S050" (for example, when the volume of the purchased product exceeds the storage space) are stored, so the remaining space information is calculated as "0" and "1 / 2." In this case, the actual remaining space for this delivery to the user with user information "U0009" can be said to be "1 / 2" (the remaining converted storage container type information is "S050," which indicates a container type with half the standard storage space volume).

[0048] Finally, for delivery identification information "0007," the linked delivery information is "N0007" and the user information is "U0013," but since the storage container type information is not linked (for example, when a product is being selected for purchase), the residual space information remains "1" (the residual converted storage container type information is "S100," which indicates a container type that is approximately the same as the standard storage space volume).

[0049] In this way, the residual space calculation unit 151 can calculate the residual space in the target storage space based on the reference storage space volume information indicating the volume of the storage space that stores one or more storage containers and the storage container type information set by the storage container type setting unit 131. In particular, by setting identification information that can identify each storage container volume obtained by dividing a predetermined storage space volume by a predetermined number, as the storage container type information, it becomes possible to efficiently store deliveries in the storage space like a puzzle, and the residual space volume can be clarified as residual-converted storage container type information. Using this, it becomes possible to extract consolidation target delivery information that indicates deliveries in which the user's deliveries can be consolidated into the remaining space. This will be described in detail below.

[0050] The consolidation target delivery extraction unit 152 extracts consolidation target delivery information indicating deliveries by other users that can consolidate the user's delivery items into the remaining space. More specifically, the consolidation target delivery extraction unit 152 extracts consolidation target delivery information indicating deliveries that can consolidate the user's delivery items into the remaining space, for example, based on storage container type information linked to user identification information and remaining space information linked to other users' delivery information. In particular, by comparing the storage container type information linked to the user identification information with remaining space information linked to other users' delivery information (in particular, remaining-converted storage container type information), consolidation target delivery information corresponding to remaining-converted storage container type information that is equal to or larger than the volume indicated by the storage container type information linked to the user identification information is extracted. Multiple residual storage container type information may be selected, and for example, the storage container type setting unit 131 may calculate combination information of residual storage container type information (for example, a combination that allows two mixed items of storage container type 1 / 4 to be stored in a residual space of 1 / 2, a combination that allows one mixed item of storage container type 1 / 4 and two mixed items of storage container type 1 / 8 to be stored, a combination that allows four mixed items of storage container type 1 / 8 to be stored, etc.), and extraction of mixed item delivery information (more specifically, the above-mentioned comparison) may be performed based on the combination information.

[0051] Here, the other user is a user corresponding to the other user identification information associated with the user identification information. The other user identification information may be, for example, the identification information of a cohabiting user set as a family member or partner, or the identification information of a proxy user set by the user as a proxy receiving user. In this example, for this association, for example, a process of registering the other user's identification information may be executed on the user's application, and / or a process of selecting whether or not to allow association with the user's identification information may be executed on the other user's application.

[0052] For example, a list of extracted delivery information of other users associated with the purchased product may be presented to the user terminal 2, and the user may select one from the list. Here, the extraction by the consolidated delivery extraction unit 152 may be further conditioned in addition to the remaining space information. For example, if each delivery information includes delivery type information indicating whether the delivery is individual or consolidated, the delivery type information indicating individual delivery may be selected as the extraction target. Alternatively, for example, if each delivery information includes delivery type information indicating whether the delivery is regular or rush (a delivery that takes less time to complete than regular), the delivery type information indicating regular or rush may be selected as the extraction target. Alternatively, for example, if each delivery information includes weight information associated with another user's delivery that exceeds the reference weight information for consolidated delivery, or if the managed temperature range information associated with another user's delivery is at least either higher or lower than the reference temperature range (e.g., if the delivery information includes hot or frozen foods), the delivery may not be selected as the extraction target. The condition may satisfy at least one of these conditions.

[0053] In addition, a mixed delivery permission confirmation may be presented to other users associated with the other user delivery information selected by the user, and if the other users select mixed delivery permission, the delivery will proceed as scheduled, but if they select no permission, the user may be required to select the scheduled delivery time information again before or after purchase.In this regard, other users may be able to set up a system where they can register users who require or do not require permission confirmation in advance, or where permission confirmation is not required from associated users (or where permission confirmation is required from non-associated users).

[0054] In this way, by taking into consideration the remaining space left over in the storage space when other users deliver, extracting other users' delivery information and mixing in the user's delivery items (purchased products), it becomes possible to deliver them together with other users' deliveries taking into consideration the delivery unit (i.e., the number of deliveries determined based on whether they fit within the standard storage space volume).

[0055] <Processing flow> The flow of processing of the information processing method executed by the information processing system of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the information processing system of Fig. 1.

[0056] As a preliminary process for using the e-commerce service provided by this information processing system, the user accesses the management server 1 using an application (including a web browser) on the user terminal 2, and if it is the first time the user is using the service, they may log in by entering some or all of the user information described above and completing the user registration process. If the user has already obtained a user account, they may log in after undergoing predetermined authentication, such as entering an ID and password, to use the service. Note that instead of a user account, a unique application ID associated with an application downloaded to the user terminal 2 may be used as user identification information (ID) to use the service.

[0057] After this login authentication, service use begins via an application (including a web browser), etc. In this example, a mode is described in which an estimated delivery time (e.g., an estimated delivery time slot) is first specified. This is particularly suitable for immediate delivery, and more reliably enables purchased items to be delivered at the user's desired delivery time. In other words, when a user specifies an estimated delivery time after selecting a purchased item, there may be cases in which the user's desired estimated delivery time is not available. In particular, with immediate delivery, there is a high possibility that the user wants to obtain the item quickly, and the user experience is not favorable if the desired estimated delivery time is not available after product selection. Furthermore, not limited to immediate delivery, by specifying consolidated delivery information first, purchases can be made while taking into account the remaining space available, and it is also possible to encourage consolidation with other users' deliveries.

[0058] 10, a list of consolidation target delivery information 910 is first displayed on the application of the user terminal 2, the user is allowed to select the desired consolidation target delivery information, and the selected consolidation target delivery information, such as estimated delivery time information and delivery identification information, is sent to the management server 1 in response to a selection operation in the estimated delivery time determination area 920 (step S101). The consolidation target delivery information 910 displayed on the application may be, for example, estimated delivery time information, remaining space information, corresponding user information, etc., but is not limited to these, and may also include weight information (particularly, information regarding remaining weight), managed temperature range information, and information regarding whether or not top and bottom loading is possible. In this display example, consolidation target delivery information with estimated delivery time information of "10:00-10:15" is selected by the user, and the display is shown to be different from the unselected consolidation target delivery information. The "scheduled delivery time information" referred to here may be scheduled delivery time information that can be included in the delivery information, or may be a differential scheduled delivery time calculated from the difference between the scheduled delivery time information and the current time (for example, if the scheduled delivery start time is "10:00" and the current time is "9:30", the differential scheduled delivery time may be "30 minutes later"). Also, if another user has sent the same consolidated delivery information to the management server 1 before the user's decision operation, making the corresponding consolidated delivery information unavailable for selection, a notification may be presented to the subsequent user to prompt them to make another selection.

[0059] Furthermore, if the desired delivery is not available among the consolidated delivery information 910 displayed on the application due to reasons such as the estimated delivery time or remaining space volume of the target delivery of another user being inappropriate, a list of available scheduled delivery time information may be displayed in response to a confirmation operation on the individual delivery time selection area 930, and the scheduled delivery time may be determined in the same manner as above, in order to select scheduled delivery time information for an individual delivery without consolidation.

[0060] In this way, by selecting the estimated delivery time before selecting the purchased items, there is no need to worry about the desired estimated delivery time being unavailable after the purchased items are selected. While the estimated delivery time is selected at this timing (S101) in this example, this is not limiting. For example, in cases where it is expected that there will be many cases where the items are not particularly urgent, or where consolidation is expected only when consolidation is possible, the estimated delivery time may be selected after the purchased items are selected (e.g., as in FIG. 10 ). Alternatively, before starting step S101, a pre-selection step may be added in which the user selects the estimated delivery time between a “pre-selection mode” (more specifically, “immediate delivery mode”) in which the estimated delivery time is selected before selecting the purchased items, and a “post-selection mode” (more specifically, “normal delivery mode”) in which the estimated delivery time is selected after selecting the purchased items. The user's choice of these modes may be set in advance in association with user identification information. Furthermore, when selecting estimated delivery time information after selecting the purchased items (e.g., selecting consolidation target delivery information), only delivery information from other users who have remaining space available for the storage container type corresponding to the delivery items may be extracted.

[0061] Next, when the data management unit 120 (particularly the delivery management unit 150) of the management server 1 selects the mixed loading target delivery information, it updates the delivery information corresponding to the mixed loading target delivery information by storing the user's user identification information and delivery item identification information in association with the delivery information based on the mixed loading target delivery information received from the user terminal 2, and when the scheduled delivery time information is selected individually without selecting the mixed loading target delivery information, it updates the data by storing the newly generated delivery identification information in association with the user identification information and delivery item identification information (S102). Note that instead of generating new delivery identification information, it is also possible to assign delivery identification information in advance to each scheduled delivery time information, and use this to manage data.

[0062] Next, as shown in FIG. 6, the user searches for a product based on the product category or product name, and the corresponding product information is sent to the user terminal 2, and, for example, a list of product information is displayed on the user terminal 2 (step S103).

[0063] 6, in response to a purchase product selection operation via the product display area 610 of the product list information on the application of the user terminal 2, the selected product information is transmitted to the management server 1 (step S104). Note that the selection operation in the product display area 610 of the product list information may be the purchase product selection operation, or the purchase product selection operation may be possible within the product detail information screen that is displayed after selecting the product display area 610, but is not limited to these.

[0064] Next, the data management unit 120 (particularly the product purchase management unit 130) of the management server 1 updates the purchased product information linked to the user identification information based on the selected product information received from the user terminal 2 (step S105). The total payment amount information for the purchased products may be displayed in the purchased product confirmation area 620. In this case, the total payment amount information may be calculated and updated in response to the selection operation. Furthermore, the storage container type setting unit 131 may set current storage container type information indicating which storage container type is currently set according to the purchased product information at the time of the selection operation, and the current storage container type information may be displayed in the current storage container type information display area 630. Alternatively, instead of or in addition to displaying the current storage container type information, the remaining space information calculated by the remaining space calculation unit 151 may be displayed. At this time, if the consolidation target delivery information is selected in step S101, it is preferable to display the remaining space information calculated when the remaining space information linked to the delivery information of the other user to be consolidated is used as the reference storage space volume information.

[0065] Here, we will explain the case where the current storage container type information set by the storage container type setting unit 131 exceeds the reference storage space volume information, or the remaining space information calculated by the remaining space calculation unit 151 exceeds 0 and becomes negative, i.e., the case where it is determined that the currently set reference storage space volume is insufficient to store the purchased items. As an example, if it is determined that the storage space is insufficient, a configuration may be adopted in which proceeding to the next purchase processing step (payment processing step) is restricted. Alternatively, if the user reduces the purchased item information associated with the user identification information by, for example, returning some of the purchased item information to an unselected state, and it is no longer determined that there is insufficient storage space (i.e., it is determined that there is sufficient storage space), the restriction on proceeding to the next step may be lifted. At this time, size information included in the product information may be referenced and non-selection recommended product information indicating products that are recommended to be deselected to lift the restriction may be presented to the user. As another example, if estimated delivery time information has been selected in advance, the estimated delivery time information selection step illustrated in FIG. 9 may be executed again to select additional estimated delivery time information. Note that the number of deliveries that corresponds to each scheduled delivery time information is not limited to one, so if the number of deliveries that corresponds to two or more and there is availability, it is possible to select additional scheduled delivery time information of the same kind. When selecting scheduled delivery time information after selecting a product to purchase, information indicating that two or more scheduled delivery time information must be selected for the current purchased product information (for example, "You must select two scheduled delivery time information") may be presented.

[0066] In addition, this is not limited to cases where it is necessary to select multiple pieces of estimated delivery time information because it is determined that there is insufficient storage space; it is also possible to similarly handle cases where it is necessary to select multiple pieces of estimated delivery time information, such as when the weight information of the purchased product information exceeds the standard weight information for one delivery, when there are multiple types of management temperature range information for the purchased product information (especially when there are hot products and frozen products), or when it is determined that there is insufficient storage space based on the vertical loading capability information of the purchased product information (for example, when there are two storage containers with storage container type information of "1 / 2" and both storage containers contain products whose vertical loading capability information indicates "not possible to load on top", meaning that side-by-side storage is not possible).

[0067] Next, the data management unit 120 executes a purchase process (e.g., a payment process) to purchase the purchase item corresponding to the purchase item information linked to the user identification information, such as by a confirmation operation in the purchase item confirmation area 620, and updates the purchase item information, delivery item information, and delivery information linked to the user identification information (S106). At this time, the delivery fee indicated in the delivery fee information related to the delivery of other users may be apportioned to the user at a predetermined rate (e.g., divided into two), and the apportioned delivery fee information may be stored in association with each user, and each user may perform payment processing. Alternatively, only the delivery fee for one delivery may be stored in association with either the user or the other user, and payment processing may be performed.

[0068] Next, it is determined whether the estimated delivery time linked to the user's purchased product information is for individual delivery or consolidated delivery (S107).

[0069] If it is determined in step S107 that the delivery is a mixed load delivery, the flow of the e-commerce service on the application ends. The purchased product is then stored in a storage container of the corresponding storage container type, and the storage container is stored in a storage space related to the delivery of another user that corresponds to the scheduled delivery time, and the product is delivered to the other user.

[0070] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S107 that the delivery is individual, the remaining space calculation unit 151 calculates the remaining space (so-called free space) in the target storage space based on the reference storage space volume information indicating the volume of the storage space and the storage container type information corresponding to the purchased product set by the storage container type setting unit 131, and the data management unit 120 (particularly the delivery management unit 150) updates (including adding) the remaining space information included in the delivery information (S108).

[0071] This allows delivery information that is an individual delivery without mixed loading to be extracted by the mixed loading target delivery extraction unit 152. Note that if the targets of extraction by the mixed loading target delivery extraction unit 152 are limited to individual deliveries, delivery type information may be included in each delivery information, and it may be possible to determine whether or not to extract by the mixed loading target delivery extraction unit 152 depending on whether the delivery type information indicates individual delivery or mixed loading delivery. Also, if multiple mixed loadings are allowed, the data management unit 120 (particularly the delivery management unit 150) may be configured to update (including add) the remaining space information included in the delivery information in step S108, regardless of the delivery type, without going through the above-mentioned step 107.

[0072] As described above, by standardizing and managing deliveries (e.g., cargo such as luggage) using storage container type identification information, it is possible to provide an information processing system, server, information processing method, and program that make it easier to grasp the overall volume of deliveries and enable efficient storage in various storage spaces.

[0073] The above-described embodiment is merely an example for facilitating understanding of the present invention, and is not intended to limit the present invention. The present invention can be modified and improved without departing from the spirit thereof, and it goes without saying that the present invention includes equivalents thereof. [Explanation of symbols]

[0074] 1 Management Server 2. User terminal

Claims

1. a remaining space calculation unit that calculates remaining space information indicating a remaining space in a storage space for storing the purchased items of the user, based on purchased item information received in response to a purchased item selection operation by the user via the item display area; A mixed delivery extraction unit extracts mixed delivery information indicating deliveries of other users that can be mixed with the user's delivery items in the remaining space; An information processing system comprising:

2. The product display area displays product list information, the purchased product information is purchased product information received in response to a purchased product selection operation in the product display area; 2. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

3. The purchased product information is purchased product information accepted in response to a purchased product selection operation in a product detail information screen that is displayed after a product selection operation in the product display area.

2. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

4. Further comprising a purchase processing unit that executes a purchase process based on the purchased product information, The mixed-loading target delivery extraction unit extracts the mixed-loading target delivery information after the purchase process.

2. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

5. Further comprising a purchase processing unit that executes a purchase process based on the purchased product information, The mixed loading target delivery extraction unit extracts the mixed loading target delivery information before the purchase process.

2. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

6. The mixed-loading target delivery extraction unit presents the extracted other users who are to be mixed-loaded to the user terminal of the user, and determines the other users who are to be targets of mixed-loading delivery in response to a selection operation of the other users who are to be mixed-loaded on the user terminal.

2. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

7. a data management unit that receives a selection of scheduled delivery time information regarding delivery from the user before the user selects the purchased item, and updates delivery information; 9. An information processing system according to claim 1, wherein:

8. a remaining space calculation unit that calculates remaining space information indicating a remaining space in a storage space for storing the purchased items of the user, based on purchased item information received in response to a purchased item selection operation by the user via the item display area; A mixed delivery extraction unit extracts mixed delivery information indicating deliveries of other users that can be mixed with the user's delivery items in the remaining space; A server comprising:

9. A step of calculating, by a remaining space calculation unit, residual space information indicating a residual space in a storage space that stores one or more storage containers for storing the purchased products of the user, based on purchased product information received in response to a product selection operation by the user in the product display area; and extracting, by a mixed-loading target delivery extraction unit, mixed-loading target delivery information indicating deliveries of other users that can be mixed with the user's delivery items in the remaining space.

23. An information processing method comprising:

10. A step of calculating, by a remaining space calculation unit, residual space information indicating a residual space in a storage space that stores one or more storage containers for storing the purchased products of the user, based on purchased product information received in response to a product selection operation by the user in the product display area; and extracting, by a mixed-loading target delivery extraction unit, mixed-loading target delivery information indicating deliveries of other users that can be mixed with the user's delivery items in the remaining space. A program characterized by:

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