Information processing system, information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To enable a proxy acting on behalf of a recipient to smoothly receive a package.SOLUTION: An information processing system includes a control unit that approves, as a proxy, a candidate for the proxy who can receive a package on behalf of a recipient specified in the address of the package, and an authentication unit that performs authentication processing to determine whether a request for receipt authentication of the delivered package is a request from the proxy approved by the control unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] In recent years, in the field of parcel delivery services, the delivery means have become increasingly diverse, and technological developments are being made to handle the various delivery means. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a logistics management system that manages information related to a logistics network and changes the operation plan of a circular service that circulates within an area based on the information. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-52525 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] As a means of delivering such packages, autonomously controlled unmanned mobile vehicles, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), are beginning to be used. When a package is held by an unmanned mobile vehicle, the unmanned mobile vehicle cannot leave the location until the package is received. Therefore, it is desirable for the recipient designated on the package to be waiting at the arrival location when the unmanned mobile vehicle arrives at the arrival location.

[0005] However, there is a possibility that the recipient may suddenly change their plans and not be able to wait at the arrival point when the unmanned vehicle arrives.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved technology that enables a representative acting on behalf of the recipient to smoothly receive the package. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problem, according to one aspect of the present invention, an information processing system is provided which includes a control unit that approves as the agent a candidate for an agent who is capable of receiving the package on behalf of a recipient specified in the addressee of the package, and an authentication unit that performs an authentication process to determine whether a request for authentication to receive the delivered package is a request from the agent approved by the control unit.

[0008] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention to solve the above-mentioned problems, an information processing device is provided which includes a control unit that approves as the agent a candidate for an agent who is capable of receiving the package on behalf of a recipient specified in the addressee of the package, and an authentication unit that performs an authentication process to determine whether a request for authentication to receive the delivered package is a request from the agent approved by the control unit.

[0009] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention to solve the above-mentioned problems, there is provided an information processing method executed by a computer, which includes approving a candidate for an agent who is capable of receiving the package on behalf of a recipient specified in the addressee of the package as the agent, and performing an authentication process to determine whether a request for authentication to receive the delivered package is a request from the approved agent.

[0010] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention to solve the above-mentioned problems, a program is provided to cause a computer to function as a control unit that approves as the agent a candidate for an agent who is capable of receiving the package on behalf of the recipient specified in the addressee of the package, and an authentication unit that performs an authentication process to determine whether a request for authentication to receive the delivered package is a request from the agent approved by the control unit. Effect of the Invention

[0011] As described above, according to the present invention, a package can be smoothly received by an agent acting on behalf of the recipient. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an overview of an information processing system according to the present invention. [Diagram 2] 1 is a conceptual diagram of authorization and authentication of a proxy by a proxy authentication server 30 according to the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the internal configuration of a recipient terminal 10. [Figure 4] 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the internal configuration of an agent terminal 20. FIG. [Diagram 5] 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the internal configuration of the agent authentication server 30. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a database stored in a storage unit 320. [Figure 7] 13 is a diagram showing an example of a notification of agent recruitment transmitted to agent terminal 20. FIG. [Figure 8] 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the internal configuration of a holding device 40. FIG. [Figure 9] 10 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of the flow of an operational process for approving a proxy by the proxy authentication server 30 according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 10] 10 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of the flow of operation processing of authentication processing by the proxy authentication server 30 according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 11] 2 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a hardware configuration of the proxy authentication server 30 according to the present embodiment. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] The contents of the embodiment of the present invention will be listed and described below. An information processing system according to the embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration. [Item 1] a control unit that approves a candidate for a proxy who is capable of receiving the package on behalf of a recipient specified in the address of the package as the proxy; an authentication unit that performs an authentication process to determine whether a request for authentication to receive the delivered package is a request from the agent approved by the control unit; An information processing system comprising: [Item 2] The information processing system according to item 1, further comprising a communication unit that receives a notification from an information processing terminal used by the agent candidate as to whether or not the agent candidate is able to receive the package on his / her behalf. [Item 3] The information processing system described in item 2, wherein when the control unit receives a notification from the information processing terminal used by the agent candidate that the package is available for receipt by the agent candidate, the control unit approves the agent candidate as the agent. [Item 4] 4. The information processing system according to item 2 or 3, wherein the communication unit receives designation information, which is a designation of a candidate for the agent, from an information processing terminal used by the recipient. [Item 5] The information processing system according to item 2 or 3, wherein the communication unit transmits a proxy request to request a proxy to receive the package designated by the recipient. [Item 6] 4. The information processing system according to item 2 or 3, wherein the communication unit transmits information regarding the package to the information processing terminal used by the agent candidate. [Item 7] The information processing system further includes a storage unit configured to store one or more candidates for the agent that are preset by the recipient, 6. The information processing system according to item 5, wherein the communication unit transmits a proxy request to the proxy candidates stored in the memory unit to request that the proxy receive the package on behalf of the candidate. [Item 8] 8. The information processing system according to item 7, wherein the communication unit transmits the proxy request to the proxy candidate selected by the recipient from among the proxy candidates stored in the memory unit. [Item 9] The information processing system described in item 2 or 3, wherein when the communication unit receives a request for proxy support from the information processing terminal used by the recipient, it sends a notification of the recruitment of an agent to the information processing terminal used by the candidate agent. [Item 10] 10. The information processing system according to item 9, wherein the communication unit sends a notification of the recruitment of agents, including remuneration information, to the agent candidates. [Item 11] Item 10. The information processing system according to item 9, wherein the communication unit receives location information of the agent candidates and transmits a notification of the agent recruitment to the agent candidates in accordance with the location information. [Item 12] The information processing system described in item 9, wherein the communications unit sends a notification of recruitment of the agent to a person who has received prescribed training when it is necessary for the agent to receive the package from the unmanned aerial vehicle. [Item 13] The information processing system according to item 1 or 2, wherein the control unit, when it is determined that the authentication by the authentication unit is successful, controls so that the luggage can be removed from the holding device in which the luggage is held. [Item 14] The holding device is an unmanned moving body, When it is determined that the authentication by the authentication unit is successful, the control unit controls the unmanned moving body so that the luggage can be taken out. Item 14. An information processing system according to item 13. [Item 15] Item 14. The information processing system according to item 13, wherein the holding device holds the luggage released from the unmanned mobile body. [Item 16] The authentication unit is provided in the holding device, The holding device further includes an authentication communication unit, The authentication communication unit receives information regarding the authentication from an information processing terminal used by the agent. Item 14. An information processing system according to item 13. [Item 17] The communication unit receives identification information transmitted from an information processing terminal used by the agent, The authentication unit performs authentication based on the identification information. Item 4. The information processing system according to item 2 or 3. [Item 18] the authentication unit authenticates the agent in response to an authentication request from an information processing terminal used by the agent based on identification information related to the holding device. Item 14. An information processing system according to item 13. [Item 19] The information processing system according to item 2 or 3, wherein when the authentication unit determines that the authentication is successful, the communication unit transmits a notification of authentication completion to an information processing terminal used by a person managing the package. [Item 20] 4. The information processing system according to item 2 or 3, wherein the communication unit notifies the recipient of a result of the authentication when the authentication unit performs the authentication. [Item 21] a control unit that approves a candidate for a proxy who is capable of receiving the package on behalf of a recipient specified in the address of the package as the proxy; an authentication unit that performs an authentication process to determine whether a request for authentication to receive the delivered package is a request from the agent approved by the control unit; An information processing device comprising: [Item 22] Approving a candidate for a proxy who is capable of receiving the package on behalf of a recipient designated in the address of the package as the proxy; performing an authentication process to determine whether a request for authentication to receive the delivered package is a request from an approved agent; 2. An information processing method implemented by a computer, comprising: [Item 23] Computer, a control unit that approves a candidate for a proxy who is capable of receiving the package on behalf of a recipient specified in the address of the package as the proxy; an authentication unit that performs an authentication process to determine whether a request for authentication to receive the delivered package is a request from the agent approved by the control unit; A program to function as a

[0014] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this specification and the drawings, components having substantially the same functional configurations are designated by the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations will be omitted.

[0015] In addition, in this specification and drawings, multiple components having substantially the same functional configuration may be distinguished by adding different alphabets after the same reference numeral. However, when there is no need to particularly distinguish between multiple components having substantially the same functional configuration, each of the multiple components is given only the same reference numeral.

[0016] <<1. Overview of an information processing system according to one embodiment of the present invention>> First, an overview of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described, which enables a representative of a recipient to smoothly receive a package.

[0017] Fig. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an overview of an information processing system according to the present invention. As shown in Fig. 1, the information processing system according to the present invention includes a recipient terminal 10, an agent terminal 20, an agent authentication server 30, a holding device 40, and a network 50. As shown in Fig. 1, the recipient terminal 10, the agent terminal 20, the agent authentication server 30, and the holding device 40 are configured to be able to communicate with each other via the network 50.

[0018] The recipient terminal 10 is an information processing terminal used by the recipient specified in the addressee's name on the package. The recipient terminal 10 transmits designation information, which is a designation of candidates for agents who can receive the package on behalf of the recipient, to the agent authentication server 30.

[0019] The recipient designates a specific person as, for example, a candidate for a proxy. This allows the recipient to request the designated specific person to receive the package on his / her behalf. It is preferable that the specific person is a person appropriate to receive the package on behalf of the recipient, such as, for example, a family member, a friend, a manager of the takeoff and landing station of the mobile body that delivers the package, or a neighborhood association coordinator. The designation information may be information that designates which type of proxy candidate the candidate is, or may be information that indicates the identification information of a specific proxy candidate.

[0020] The recipient terminal 10 also transmits a proxy assistance request to the proxy authentication server 30, requesting that a person indicated in the designation information assist in receiving the package on behalf of the recipient. By transmitting the proxy assistance request, the recipient terminal 10 can cause the proxy authentication server 30 to solicit proxies. The proxy assistance request may be transmitted simultaneously to the persons indicated in the designation information by referring to the designation information, or may be transmitted for each proxy candidate type in the order indicated by the priority information by referring to priority information related to the designation information that is set in advance by the recipient. When the proxy assistance requests are transmitted in order for each proxy candidate type, they may be transmitted sequentially as a predetermined deadline period elapses. The deadline period information may be set individually for each proxy candidate type, or may be set in common.

[0021] The agent terminal 20 is an information processing terminal used by an agent candidate or an agent (strictly speaking, an agent can be a candidate until he / she is confirmed as an agent, but they are sometimes collectively referred to as agents). The agent terminal 20 receives a proxy request for proxy receipt of a package and a notification of a call for proxies from the agent authentication server 30. The agent terminal 20 also transmits a notification to the agent authentication server 30 as to whether or not proxy receipt of a package is possible through an approval operation on an application or the like.

[0022] In addition, the agent terminal 20 transmits an authentication request, which is a request for authentication to receive the delivered package, to the agent authentication server 30.

[0023] The recipient terminal 10 and the agent terminal 20 are, for example, information processing terminals such as a personal computer, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a PHS (Personal Handy-phone System), a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), etc. In the example shown in Fig. 1, the recipient terminal 10 is a personal computer, the agent terminal 20A is a tablet terminal, and the agent terminal 20B is a smartphone.

[0024] The agent authentication server 30 is an example of an information processing device, and is a server that performs authentication processing to determine whether a request for authentication to receive a delivered package is authentication by an approved agent. For example, the agent authentication server 30 may be a general-purpose computer such as a workstation or a PC, or may be a cloud server.

[0025] Furthermore, when the agent authentication server 30 receives designation information designating an agent candidate from the recipient terminal 10 (or refers to designation information received in advance), it transmits a proxy request to the agent terminal 20 used by the agent candidate. Furthermore, when the agent authentication server 30 receives a proxy support request from the recipient terminal 10, it selects an agent candidate. Next, the agent authentication server 30 transmits a notification of agent recruitment to the agent terminal 20 used by the selected agent candidate. Then, when the agent authentication server 30 receives a notification from the agent terminal 20 that proxy receipt of the package is possible, it approves the agent candidate using the agent terminal 20 as an agent.

[0026] In addition, when the proxy authentication server 30 receives an authentication request from the proxy terminal 20, it performs an authentication process to determine whether or not the request for authentication to receive the delivered parcel is authentication by an approved proxy. When the proxy authentication server 30 determines that the request is from the proxy, that is, that the authentication is successful, it controls the holding device 40 so that the parcel can be taken out from the holding device 40. This makes it impossible for people other than the approved proxy to take out the recipient's parcel, thereby reducing the risk of the parcel being stolen. Note that the authentication request is not limited to being received from the proxy terminal 20, but may be transmitted from the proxy terminal 20 to the holding device 40 as identification information for authentication such as an authentication code (e.g., parcel identification information, delivery identification information, user identification information, proxy identification information, etc.), and transmitted from the holding device 40 to the proxy authentication server 30. In addition, the holding device 40 may receive an authentication request from the holding device 40 or a proxy request from the recipient terminal 10, acquire authentication information in advance, and execute the authentication process in the holding device 40. All of these are examples and are not limited to these.

[0027] The holding device 40 is a device capable of holding luggage. The holding device 40 is not particularly limited as long as it can hold luggage. The holding device 40 may be an unmanned mobile body that moves by autonomous control using input information regarding positions of two points such as a start point (e.g., a delivery start position of the luggage L or a movement start position of the unmanned mobile body 10B) and an end point (e.g., a receiving position of the luggage L) for delivering the luggage, or three or more points including a relay point (e.g., a collection position of the luggage L in the case of a delivery involving collection of the luggage L) and a return point (e.g., a position the same as the movement start position of the unmanned mobile body 10 or a different waiting position). The holding device 40 may also be an unmanned mobile body that moves by remote control using operation information remotely input by an administrator who manages the unmanned mobile body.

[0028] The unmanned moving body may be, for example, a drone that moves by autonomous control, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that moves by remote control by an administrator, a vehicle that moves on land such as an unmanned ground vehicle (UGV), or a ship that moves on water such as a sea or river. Also, the unmanned moving body may be a moving body that can move on at least two or more routes of land, water, and air.

[0029] Furthermore, the unmanned mobile body may be a mobile body capable of moving along at least two routes, including land, water, and air routes.

[0030] The holding device 40 may be a home delivery box that is installed outdoors and can store delivered packages. The home delivery box may hold packages released from an unmanned mobile body, and it is preferable that the home delivery box is equipped with a mechanism for automatically taking packages into the home delivery box, particularly for the unmanned mobile body 10B. The holding device 40 may be a storage unit that is delivered together with the package and separated from the unmanned mobile body, or a storage unit with an electronic lock in which the package is stored. When the agent authentication server 30 determines that the authentication is successful, the holding device 40 allows the package held by the agent authentication server 30 to be taken out based on the control by the agent authentication server 30. If the home delivery box has an electronic lock function, the storage unit in which the package is stored may be unlocked based on information on unlocking transmitted from the agent authentication server 30 to the agent terminal 20. The information on unlocking may be an unlocking code, and the agent may directly operate the storage box to input the unlocking code, or the agent terminal 20 may communicate to input the unlocking code.

[0031] The network 50 is a wired or wireless transmission path for information transmitted from devices connected to the network 50. For example, the network 50 may include public lines such as the Internet, a telephone line network, and a satellite communication network, various LANs (Local Area Networks) including Ethernet (registered trademark), and WANs (Wide Area Networks). The network 50 may also include a dedicated line network such as an IP-VPN (Internet Protocol-Virtual Private Network).

[0032] 2 is an image diagram of approval and authentication of an agent by the agent authentication server 30 according to the present invention. The recipient R uses the recipient terminal 10 to designate a candidate agent who is a candidate for the agent P or to transmit a request for proxy assistance. The candidate agent who transmits a notification to the agent authentication server 30 that he / she is able to receive the package L is approved by the agent authentication server 30 as the agent P. The approved agent P receives the package L from the holding device 40 after being authenticated by the agent authentication server 30.

[0033] The means for delivering the luggage L is not particularly limited. For example, the means for delivering the luggage L may be a manned mobile object such as a vehicle moving on a land route, an aircraft flying on an air route, or a ship moving on water such as a sea route or a river route. The means for delivering the luggage L may also be an unmanned mobile object as described above.

[0034] The delivery means for the luggage L and the holding device 40 may be the same unmanned mobile body, or may be different unmanned mobile bodies.

[0035] <<2. Functional configuration example according to this embodiment>> <2-1. Example of functional configuration of recipient terminal 10> The outline of the information processing system according to the embodiment of the present invention has been described above. Next, an example of the functional configuration of the recipient terminal 10 will be described.

[0036] 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the internal configuration of the recipient terminal 10. As shown in FIG. 3, the recipient terminal 10 has a communication unit 110, an operation display unit 120, and a control unit .

[0037] (Communications Department) The communication unit 110 communicates with the proxy authentication server 30 via the network 50 to transmit and receive data. For example, the communication unit 110 transmits to the proxy authentication server 30 the designation of proxy candidates and a proxy support request.

[0038] In addition, the communication unit 110 receives information about the agent P regarding the package L from the agent authentication server 30, such as the approval status of the agent P regarding the package L addressed to the recipient R and the results of authentication by the agent authentication server 30.

[0039] (Operation display) The operation display unit 120 includes a function as an operation unit that is configured to be operated by the recipient R to input instructions or information to the recipient terminal 10, and a function as a display unit that displays various information under the control of the control unit 130. For example, the recipient R operates the operation display unit 120 to cause the communication unit 110 to transmit designated information or a proxy support request to the proxy authentication server 30.

[0040] The recipient R may operate the operation display unit 120 to designate a candidate agent for each package L. The recipient R may also operate the operation display unit 120 to set one or more candidate agents in advance. In this case, the recipient R may operate the operation display unit 120 to cause the communication unit 110 to transmit a notification to the agent authentication server 30 designating one or more previously set candidate agents as candidates for agents for the package L. This eliminates the hassle of the recipient R designating a candidate agent for each package L. The recipient R may also operate the operation display unit 120 to designate a candidate agent for the package L by selecting a portion of the candidates from among the multiple candidates for agents previously set.

[0041] The operation display unit 120 also displays information transmitted from the agent authentication server 30 to the communication unit 110, such as the approval status of the agent P and the result of authentication by the agent authentication server 30.

[0042] (Control unit) The control unit 130 controls the overall operation of the recipient terminal 10. For example, the control unit 130 causes the communication unit 110 to transmit information such as designation information or a proxy support request acquired by the operation display unit 120. The control unit 130 also causes the operation display unit 120 to display information such as the approval status of the proxy P received from the proxy authentication server 30 by the communication unit 110 and the result of authentication by the proxy authentication server 30.

[0043] <2-2. Example of Functional Configuration of Agent Terminal 20> An example of the functional configuration of the recipient terminal 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention has been described above. Next, an example of the functional configuration of the agent terminal 20 will be described.

[0044] 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the internal configuration of the agent terminal 20. As shown in FIG. 4, the agent terminal 20 has a sensor unit 210, a communication unit 220, a reading unit 230, an operation display unit 240, and a control unit 250.

[0045] (Sensor section) The sensor unit 210 is a sensor that detects the current position of the agent terminal 20. The sensor unit 210 may detect the current position of the agent terminal 20 by using, for example, the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS).

[0046] (Communications Department) The communication unit 220 communicates with the agent authentication server 30 via the network 50 to transmit and receive data. The communication unit 220 receives from the agent authentication server 30 a proxy request for proxy receipt of the parcel L and a notification of proxy recruitment. The communication unit 220 also notifies the agent authentication server 30 whether or not proxy receipt of the parcel L input to the operation display unit 240 is possible. The communication unit 220 also transmits to the agent authentication server 30 location information of the agent terminal 20 acquired by the sensor unit 210. The communication unit 220 also transmits an authentication request to the agent authentication server 30. The authentication request includes identification information related to the parcel L or the holding device 40 read by the reading unit 230.

[0047] (Reading unit) The reading unit 230 reads the identification information related to the baggage L or the holding device 40. The reading unit 230 reads the identification information from various information codes such as barcodes or two-dimensional codes printed or displayed on the baggage L or the holding device 40 by a camera or the like. The reading unit 230 may read various information codes attached to the baggage L or the holding device 40. The reading unit 230 is not limited to a camera, and may read the identification information of the baggage L or the holding device 40 by, for example, a non-contact or contact IC card reader or the like. The reading unit 230 may also be an input device such as a keyboard. In that case, the agent P inputs a character string displayed or printed on the baggage L or the holding device 40 into the input device as the identification information. The reading unit 230 may also read the external shape of the baggage L or the holding device 40. In this case, the read outer shape is transmitted as an image to the agent authentication server 30 by the communication unit 220, and the agent authentication server 30 converts the image into identification information by image recognition.

[0048] (Operation display) The operation display unit 240 includes a function as an operation unit operated by the agent P or agent candidates to input instructions or information to the agent terminal 20, and a function as a display unit that displays various information under the control of the control unit 250. For example, the operation display unit 240 displays a proxy request by the recipient R and a notification of the recruitment of agents, which are transmitted from the agent authentication server 30 to the communication unit 220. In addition, the agent candidates input whether or not they are able to receive the package L on behalf of the recipient R by operating the operation display unit 240.

[0049] (Control unit) The control unit 250 controls the overall operation of the agent terminal 20. For example, the control unit 250 causes the communication unit 220 to transmit a notification, acquired by the operation display unit 240, as to whether or not proxy receipt of the package L is possible. In addition, the control unit 250 causes the operation display unit 240 to display information such as a proxy request and a notification of proxy recruitment, received by the communication unit 220 from the agent authentication server 30.

[0050] <2-3. Example of functional configuration of the proxy authentication server 30> An example of the functional configuration of the agent terminal 20 according to the embodiment of the present invention has been described above. Next, an example of the functional configuration of the agent authentication server 30 will be described.

[0051] 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the internal configuration of the agent authentication server 30. As shown in FIG.

[0052] (Communications Department) The communication unit 310 communicates with the recipient terminal 10 and the agent terminal 20 via the network 50. For example, the communication unit 310 receives designation information and a proxy request from the recipient terminal 10. The communication unit 310 also transmits to the recipient terminal 10 the approval status of the agent P for the package L addressed to the recipient R and the result of receipt authentication for the package L. For example, when the communication unit 310 receives a notification from the agent terminal 20 that proxy receipt is not possible (or when the communication unit 310 determines from the agent terminal 20 that a predetermined recruitment period has elapsed or that a predetermined recruitment deadline has been reached), it transmits a notification to the recipient terminal 10 that proxy receipt by a candidate is not possible.

[0053] The communication unit 310 also transmits information about the parcel L that can be received on behalf of the recipient R, stored in the memory unit 320, to the agent terminal 20 used by the agent candidate. The communication unit 310 also transmits a proxy request and a notification of the recruitment of agents to the agent terminal 20. The communication unit 310 also receives a notification from the agent terminal 20 as to whether or not proxy reception of the parcel L is possible. The communication unit 310 also receives an authentication request from the agent terminal 20.

[0054] (Storage part) The storage unit 320 stores a program and various data for operating the control unit 330. For example, the storage unit 320 stores recipient information, which is information about the recipient R. The recipient information is, for example, the recipient's name, the recipient's name in the service, various basic information such as an email address, an address or a phone number, account information of an external application, and payment information (such as credit card information). The storage unit 320 also stores one or more proxy candidates preset by the recipient R. The recipient information may also include the above-mentioned designated information. However, the recipient information is not limited to these.

[0055] The storage unit 320 also stores information on the candidates for the proxy. The information on the candidates for the proxy is, for example, the name of the candidate for the proxy, the name of the candidate for the proxy in the service, an email address, a telephone number, a gender, an age, and external application account information. The storage unit 320 may also store information on the candidate for the proxy's receipt of the parcel L. The information on the candidate for the proxy's receipt of the parcel L is, for example, information on the attendance status of a predetermined training related to the means of receiving the parcel L, a desired receiving area, identification information (including driver's license information), bank account information, proxy receipt history information, and the like. The predetermined training related to the means of receiving the parcel L may be, for example, training for receiving the parcel L from an unmanned aerial vehicle. However, the information on the candidate for the proxy is not limited to these.

[0056] The storage unit 320 stores a recipient ID and an agent ID, which are identification information for uniquely identifying the recipient R who uses the recipient terminal 10 and the agent candidate who uses the agent terminal 20.

[0057] The storage unit 320 also stores information about the parcel L, the addressee of which is designated as a recipient R using the recipient terminal 10. The information about the parcel L includes, for example, identification information about the parcel L, the estimated arrival time of the parcel L, whether the parcel L is a frozen product, whether the parcel L is a sensitive item that requires careful handling, such as a top-down, no-piling, fresh, or fragile item, and the delivery method of the parcel L. The information about the parcel L may also include information about whether it is necessary for the agent P to receive the parcel L from the unmanned aerial vehicle. The information about the parcel L may also include the above-mentioned designation information, so that agent candidates can be set on a parcel-by-parcel basis.

[0058] The storage unit 320 also stores a database of identification information of the package L, the recipient R specified in the address of the package L, and information on an approved agent P who is able to receive the package L. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the database stored in the storage unit 320. As shown in FIG. 6, the storage unit 320 stores a database including a recipient ID and an agent ID linked to a package ID, which is identification information of the package L. The authentication unit 332, which will be described in detail later, performs reception authentication of the package L based on the database shown in FIG. 6.

[0059] (Control unit) The control unit 330 controls the overall operation of the agent authentication server 30. For example, the control unit 330 controls the storage unit 320 to store information received from the recipient terminal 10 and the agent terminal 20 by the communication unit 310. In this embodiment, the control unit 330 has functions as an agent approval unit 331 and an authentication unit 332.

[0060] (Agent Approval Department) The agent approval unit 331 controls the communication unit 310 to transmit information to the agent terminal 20 in response to the information received from the recipient terminal 10. In addition, the agent approval unit 331 approves the agent P in response to the information received by the communication unit 310 from the agent terminal 20.

[0061] For example, when the communication unit 310 receives specified information regarding package L from the recipient terminal 10, the agent approval unit 331 controls the communication unit 310 to send a proxy request to the agent terminal 20 used by the potential agent to request that the potential agent act as a proxy to receive the package L.

[0062] Furthermore, when the communication unit 310 receives a notification from the recipient terminal 10 designating a preset candidate as a candidate for a proxy for the package L, the agent approval unit 331 controls the communication unit 310 to send a proxy request to the agent terminal 20 used by the candidate for a proxy. Furthermore, when the communication unit 310 receives a notification from the agent terminal 20 to which the proxy request was sent that the package L is available for receipt, the agent approval unit 331 approves the candidate for a proxy using the agent terminal 20 as an agent P. This allows the recipient R to have a specific person receive the package L on his / her behalf.

[0063] Furthermore, when a proxy assistance request for the package L is received from the recipient terminal 10 by the communication unit 310, the proxy approval unit 331 selects a proxy candidate. Instead of or in addition to setting the type of proxy candidate by the above-mentioned designation information, the proxy approval unit 331 may select a proxy candidate who will receive the package L on behalf of the recipient according to location information of the proxy candidate received from the proxy terminal 20 by the communication unit 310. That is, the proxy approval unit 331 may select a proxy candidate whose location information is within a predetermined range from the receiving location indicated by the information on the receiving location, and transmit a proxy request.

[0064] The agent approval unit 331 may select an agent candidate to receive the package L on behalf of the agent by referring to information about the package L and information about the agent candidates stored in the memory unit 320. For example, when information specifying that the agent P will receive the package L from an unmanned aerial vehicle as the receiving means is stored in the memory unit 320, the agent approval unit 331 may select an agent candidate stored in the memory unit 320 as a person who has received predetermined training regarding the receiving means of the package L, as the agent candidate for the package L.

[0065] The agent approval unit 331 controls the communication unit 310 to send a notification of agent recruitment to the agent terminal 20 used by the selected agent candidate. The notification of agent recruitment may include information about the package L. The agent candidate can determine whether or not to accept the proxy reception of the package L by checking the information about the package L.

[0066] Furthermore, the notification of the recruitment of agents may include reward information. The reward information is information regarding reward that a candidate agent can receive by receiving the package L on behalf of the recipient R as the agent P. The reward may be money, a service, or points having monetary value. The content of the reward may be determined by the recipient R using the recipient terminal 10 that transmitted the proxy assistance request, or may be a predetermined content (for example, reward content common to all agents, reward content according to the results of the agent's past proxy actions, reward content according to information related to the package such as the weight of the package, etc.).

[0067] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a notification of recruitment of agents transmitted to the agent terminal 20. As shown in FIG. 7, the notification of recruitment of agents includes information such as the location of receipt of the package L, the scheduled time of receipt, notes (for example, actions to be taken after receipt as shown in FIG. 7), and remuneration. In addition, a candidate for an agent can transmit a notification to the agent authentication server 30 that he / she is able to receive the package L by performing an approval operation such as selecting an approval button displayed on the agent terminal 20. This makes it possible for the recipient R to have someone else receive the package L that he / she is unable to receive, even if there is no specific person to whom the recipient R can request to receive the package L on his / her behalf.

[0068] In addition, the agent candidate can check the information displayed on the agent terminal 20, and if it does not meet the candidate's wishes, he or she can choose not to accept the agent recruitment by performing a non-approval operation such as selecting a button to return to the home page or a button indicating non-approval.

[0069] When the communication unit 310 receives a notification from the agent terminal 20 to which the notification of the recruitment of agents has been sent that the package L is available for receipt, the agent approval unit 331 approves the candidate for an agent who uses the agent terminal 20 as an agent P. Note that a confirmation notification may be sent to the recipient before approval, and if the recipient performs an approval operation in response to the confirmation notification, the agent approval unit 331 may approve the candidate in response to this, or the agent approval unit 331 may approve the candidate without going through such an approval operation by the recipient.

[0070] The communication unit 310 may also transmit a notification of the recruitment of agents to a plurality of agent candidates. In this case, the agent approval unit 331 may select one agent from the plurality of agent candidates. For example, the agent approval unit 331 may approve as the agent P a candidate who uses the agent terminal 20 to which the notification of the recruitment of agents or the notification that the package L is available for receipt was first transmitted.

[0071] (Authentication section) The authentication unit 332 performs an authentication process to determine whether or not a request for authentication of receipt of the delivered parcel L is a request from the agent P approved by the agent approval unit 331. For example, when the communication unit 310 receives an authentication request from the agent terminal 20, the authentication unit 332 performs the authentication process. The authentication unit 332 performs the authentication process by referring to a database stored in the storage unit 320 and comparing the parcel ID and the agent ID. If the parcel ID included in the authentication request is found to be linked to the agent ID of the agent P using the agent terminal 20, the authentication unit 332 determines that the request for authentication of receipt of the parcel L is a request from the approved agent P. In this case, the authentication unit 332 determines that the authentication is successful. On the other hand, if the parcel ID is found to be not linked to the agent ID of the agent P, the authentication unit 332 determines that the request for authentication of receipt of the parcel L is not authentication by the approved agent P. In this case, the authentication unit 332 determines that the authentication is unsuccessful.

[0072] The authentication unit 332 may also authenticate the agent P in response to an authentication request from the agent terminal 20 based on the identification information related to the holding device 40. In this case, the received identification information related to the holding device 40 needs to be linked to the baggage ID of the baggage L held by the holding device 40. Therefore, when the authentication unit 332 performs authentication based on the identification information related to the holding device 40, when the baggage L is held in the holding device 40, the identification information related to the holding device 40 and the baggage ID of the baggage L are linked and stored in a database stored in the storage unit 320. The authentication unit 332 determines that the authentication is successful when it is determined that the baggage ID of the baggage L linked to the identification information related to the holding device 40 included in the authentication request is linked to the agent ID of the agent P using the agent terminal 20.

[0073] Furthermore, when the authentication unit 332 determines that the receipt authentication of the delivered luggage L is successful, it controls the holding device 40 via the communication unit 310 so that the luggage L can be taken out from the holding device 40 in which the luggage L is held. With this configuration, it is possible to realize smooth receipt of the luggage L by the agent P. Note that, if the luggage L is managed by a luggage manager without going through the holding device 40, an authentication request may be transmitted from the agent terminal 20 to a luggage manager terminal (not shown) and authentication processing may be started in the agent authentication server 30 via the luggage manager terminal, or the authentication processing by the authentication unit 332 may be started by reading identification information (e.g., various information codes such as barcodes or two-dimensional codes) for the authentication request acquired by either the agent terminal 20 or the luggage manager terminal from the agent authentication server 30 using a camera or the like by the other, or the authentication processing by the authentication unit 332 may be started by reading various information codes attached or printed on the luggage L using a reading unit of the agent terminal 20.

[0074] <2-4. Functional configuration example of the holding device 40> An example of the functional configuration of the agent authentication server 30 according to the embodiment of the present invention has been described above. Next, an example of the functional configuration of the holding device 40 will be described.

[0075] 8 is an explanatory diagram showing the internal configuration of the holding device 40. As shown in FIG. 8, the holding device 40 has a communication unit 410, a holding unit 420, and a control unit 430.

[0076] (Communications Department) The communication unit 410 communicates with the proxy authentication server 30 via the network 50. For example, the communication unit 410 receives an instruction to control the storage unit 420 from the proxy authentication server 30.

[0077] (holding part) The holding unit 420 holds the package L, the address of which is designated as the recipient R. The holding unit 420 enables the package L to be taken out by the agent P based on a control instruction received by the communication unit 410 from the agent authentication server 30. For example, the holding unit 420 may be in the shape of a box capable of storing the package L and have an openable and closable lid. In this case, the holding unit 420 may enable the package L to be taken out by the agent P by permitting the opening of the lid. The holding unit 420 may also hold the package L such that the package L is fixed by a fixed object such as a belt or a frame. In that case, the holding unit 420 may enable the package L to be taken out by the agent P by removing a part of the fixed object. The configuration of the holding unit 420 is not limited to these examples, and it is sufficient that the package L is held.

[0078] (Control unit) The control unit 430 controls the overall operation of the holding device 40. For example, in response to an instruction to control the holding unit 420 received by the communication unit 410 from the agent authentication server 30, the control unit 430 controls the holding unit 420 so that the baggage L can be taken out from the holding unit 420.

[0079] <<3. Example of Operation Processing According to This Embodiment>> An example of the functional configuration according to the embodiment of the present invention has been described above. Next, an example of the operation process according to the embodiment will be described.

[0080] Here, the recipient R, agent candidate, and agent P provided by this information processing system may access the agent authentication server 30 using an application (including a web browser) or the like, and when using the service for the first time, may log in by performing a usage registration process. If an account has already been obtained, the service may be made available by logging in after undergoing a predetermined authentication, such as entering a user ID or recipient ID and a password. Note that instead of an account, a unique application ID associated with an application downloaded to the recipient terminal 10 or agent terminal 20 may be used as the user ID or recipient ID to make the service available. After this login authentication, use of the service begins via an application (including a web browser) or the like.

[0081] (Proxies Approval Process) First, a description will be given of the flow of agent approval by the agent authentication server 30. Fig. 9 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of the flow of the operation process of agent approval by the agent authentication server 30 according to this embodiment. First, when the communication unit 310 receives designation information that is the designation of an agent candidate from the recipient terminal 10 (S104 / Yes), it transmits a proxy request to the agent terminal 20 used by the designated agent candidate (S108).

[0082] On the other hand, when no designation information is received from the recipient terminal 10 (S104 / No), the agent approval unit 331 judges whether the communication unit 310 has received a proxy support request from the recipient terminal 10 (S112). When the communication unit 310 has received a proxy support request from the recipient terminal 10 (S112 / Yes), the agent approval unit 331 selects an agent candidate (S116). Next, the communication unit 310 transmits a notification of agent recruitment to the agent terminal 20 used by the selected agent candidate (S120).

[0083] On the other hand, if the communication unit 310 does not receive a proxy support request from the recipient terminal 10 (S112 / No), the proxy authentication server 30 ends the process. When the communication unit 310 transmits a proxy request (S108) or transmits a notification of proxy recruitment (S120), the proxy approval unit 331 judges whether the communication unit 310 has received a notification from the proxy terminal 20 that proxy reception is possible (S124). When the communication unit 310 receives a notification from the proxy terminal 20 that proxy reception is possible (S124 / Yes), the proxy approval unit 331 approves the proxy candidate as proxy P (S128), and the proxy authentication server 30 ends the process. When the communication unit 310 receives a notification from the agent terminal 20 that proxy receipt is not possible (S124 / No), it sends a notification to the recipient terminal 10 used by recipient R that proxy receipt by the candidate agent is not possible (S132), and the agent authentication server 30 terminates the processing.

[0084] (Authentication process flow) Next, a description will be given of the flow of authentication of the agent by the agent authentication server 30. Fig. 10 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of the flow of operation processing of authentication processing by the agent authentication server 30 according to this embodiment. Here, it is assumed that the baggage L is held so that it cannot be taken out of the holding device 40.

[0085] First, the authentication unit 332 judges whether or not an authentication request has been received from the agent terminal 20 through the communication unit 310 (S204). If the communication unit 310 does not receive an authentication request from the agent terminal 20 (S204 / No), the authentication unit 332 controls the holding device 40 to continue holding the baggage L so that it cannot be taken out of the holding device 40.

[0086] On the other hand, when the communication unit 310 receives an authentication request from the agent terminal 20 (S204 / Yes), the authentication unit 332 compares the baggage ID included in the authentication request with the agent ID of the agent P using the agent terminal 20 (S208). The authentication unit 332 judges whether the authentication is successful or not based on the comparison result (S212). When the baggage ID and the agent ID can be compared, the authentication unit 332 judges the authentication as successful (S212 / Yes) and controls the holding device 40 to enable the baggage L to be taken out from the holding device 40 (S216). On the other hand, when the authentication unit 332 cannot compare the baggage ID and the agent ID, the authentication unit 332 judges the authentication as unsuccessful (S212 / No) and controls the holding device 40 to continue holding the baggage L so that it cannot be taken out from the holding device 40 (S220). After the authentication unit 332 controls the holding device 40, the communication unit 310 transmits the result of the authentication to the recipient terminal 10 used by the recipient R (S224), and the agent authentication server 30 ends the process.

[0087] <<4. Modifications of this embodiment>> An example of the operation of the proxy authentication server 30 according to the present embodiment has been described above. The technology according to the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiment. First, additional functions of the communication unit and the control unit among the components of the holding device 40 according to this modified example will be described.

[0088] The communication unit 410 according to this modified example further includes a function as an authentication communication unit capable of directly communicating with the agent terminal 20. The communication method used for communication with the agent terminal 20 is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), wireless LAN, or Wi-Fi. The communication unit 410 receives an authentication request from the agent terminal 20, including the agent ID of the agent P who uses the agent terminal 20.

[0089] The control unit 430 according to this modified example further has a function as an authentication unit that performs authentication processing to determine whether or not a request for authentication to receive a delivered package L is a request from a proxy P approved by the proxy authentication server 30. The control unit 430 stores the proxy ID of the approved proxy P who is able to receive the package L held in the holding device 40 on behalf of the proxy P. The proxy ID may be transmitted in advance from the proxy authentication server 30 to the communication unit 410, or may be stored when the package L is held in the holding device 40.

[0090] The control unit 430 controls the holding unit 420 to allow the baggage L to be taken out of the holding unit 420 when the stored agent ID matches the agent ID received from the agent terminal 20 by the communication unit 410.

[0091] According to the information processing system of this modification, when authenticating the agent P, the agent P is controlled so that the baggage L can be taken out of the holding device 40 without communicating with the agent authentication server 30. Therefore, when the holding device 40 is an unmanned mobile body, even if it stops at a place where communication with the agent authentication server 30 is not possible, the agent P can be authenticated and receive the baggage L.

[0092] <<5. Hardware Configuration>> The information processing described above is realized by cooperation between software and the hardware of the proxy authentication server 30 described below. The hardware configuration described below is also applicable to the recipient terminal 10, the proxy terminal 20, and the storage device 40.

[0093] 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of the hardware configuration of the proxy authentication server 30 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 11, the proxy authentication server 30 includes a control unit 330, a memory 31, a storage 32, a transmission / reception unit 33, an input / output unit 34, etc., which are electrically connected to each other via a bus 35.

[0094] The control unit 330 is a computing device that controls the overall operation of the proxy authentication server 30, controls the transmission and reception of data between each element, and performs information processing required for application execution and authentication processing. For example, the control unit 330 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and / or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and executes programs for this system stored in the storage 32 and deployed in the memory 31 to perform various information processing as described above.

[0095] The memory 31 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, a HDD (Hard Disc Drive), etc. The memory 31 is used as a work area for the control unit 330, and also stores a BIOS (Basic Input / Output System) that is executed when the proxy authentication server 30 is started, various setting information, etc.

[0096] The storage 32 stores various programs such as application programs, etc. A database that stores data used in each process may be constructed in the storage 32.

[0097] The transmission / reception unit 33 connects the agent authentication server 30 to a network and / or a blockchain network. The transmission / reception unit 33 may be equipped with a short-range communication interface such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) and BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy).

[0098] The input / output unit 34 includes information input devices such as a keyboard, a microphone, and a mouse, and output devices such as a display and a speaker.

[0099] A bus 35 is commonly connected to each of the above elements, and transmits, for example, address signals, data signals and various control signals.

[0100] <<6. Supplementary Information>> Although the preferred embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present invention is not limited to such an example. It is clear that a person having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention pertains can conceive of various modified or altered examples within the scope of the technical ideas described in the claims, and it is understood that these also naturally belong to the technical scope of the present invention.

[0101] For example, in the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the luggage L is held by the holding device 40, but the present invention is not limited to such an example. For example, the luggage L may be placed at a predetermined location such as a takeoff and landing station of a truck or a mobile body such as an unmanned mobile body that delivered the luggage L. In this case, the communication unit 310 transmits the result of the authentication to the recipient terminal 10 after authentication by the authentication unit 332. With such a configuration, smooth receipt of the luggage L by the agent can be realized more simply.

[0102] In this case, the agent terminal 20 may read the identification information from an information code displayed on a screen or printed at the takeoff and landing point of the mobile object. The identification information read by the agent terminal 20 may be identification information related to the predetermined location. When it is decided that the baggage L will be placed at the predetermined location, the identification information is linked to the baggage ID and stored in the database of the storage unit 320, making it possible for the authentication unit 332 to perform authentication.

[0103] The baggage L may be entrusted to a baggage manager who manages the baggage L. In this case, when the authentication is successful, the communication unit 410 transmits a notification of authentication completion to the information processing terminal used by the baggage manager who manages the baggage L. The baggage manager may be, for example, a convenience store employee, a manager of a mobile terminal, or a neighborhood association coordinator. By checking the notification of authentication completion, the baggage manager can recognize that the person who is about to receive the baggage L is the approved agent P. The agent P can receive the baggage L from the manager. According to this configuration, since there is no need to control the taking out of the baggage L, it is possible to more simply realize smooth receipt of the baggage L by the agent. In addition, compared to the configuration in which the baggage L is placed at a predetermined location as described above, it is possible to eliminate the risk of the baggage L being taken away.

[0104] In addition, a computer program can be created to cause hardware such as the CPU, ROM, and RAM built into the recipient terminal 10, the agent terminal 20, the agent authentication server 30, and the storage device 40 to perform functions equivalent to those of the above-mentioned recipient terminal 10, the agent terminal 20, the agent authentication server 30, and the storage device 40. [Explanation of symbols]

[0105] 10 Recipient terminal 20 Agent terminal 30 Proxy Authentication Server 40 Holding device 50 Network 110 Communications Department 120 Operation display section 130 Control section 210 Sensor section 220 Reading unit 230 Operation display section 240 Control Unit 310 Communications Department 320 Storage section 330 Control Unit 331 Agent Approval Department 332 Authentication Department 410 Communications Department 420 Holding part 430 Control Unit

Claims

1. A control unit that approves a candidate for an agent who can receive the package on behalf of the recipient specified in the package address as the agent; An authentication unit that performs an authentication process for determining whether a request for receiving authentication of the delivered package is a request from the agent approved by the control unit; An information processing system comprising the above.

2. When receiving a proxy support request from a first information processing terminal used by the recipient, it further has a communication unit that sends a notice of recruitment of an agent to a second information processing terminal used by the candidate for the agent, The communication unit sends a notice of recruitment of the agent to a person who has received a predetermined training, The information processing system according to Claim 1.

3. When the communication unit is specified that the agent receives the package from an unmanned aerial vehicle, the communication unit sends a notice of recruitment of the agent to a person who has received training for receiving the package from the unmanned aerial vehicle, The information processing system according to Claim 2.

4. When the control unit determines that the request for receiving authentication of the package is a request from the approved agent by the authentication unit, the control unit controls to enable the package to be taken out from a holding device that holds the package automatically received from the unmanned aerial vehicle. The information processing system according to Claim 1.

5. When the control unit determines that the request for receiving authentication of the package is a request from the approved agent by the authentication unit, the control unit controls to enable the package to be taken out from a holding device that holds the package, The authentication unit authenticates the agent in response to an authentication request from an information processing terminal used by the agent based on identification information related to the holding device, The information processing system according to Claim 1.

6. A control unit that approves a candidate for an agent who can receive the package on behalf of the recipient specified in the package address as the agent; An authentication unit that performs an authentication process for determining whether a request for receiving authentication of the delivered package is a request from the agent approved by the control unit; An information processing apparatus comprising the above.

7. Approving a candidate for an agent who can receive the package on behalf of the recipient specified in the package address as the agent; Performing an authentication process for determining whether a request for receiving authentication of the delivered package is a request from the approved agent; An information processing method executed by a computer, including

8. A computer, A control unit that approves, as the agent, a candidate for an agent who can receive the package on behalf of the recipient specified in the address of the package; An authentication unit that performs an authentication process for determining whether a request for receiving authentication of the delivered package is a request from the agent approved by the control unit; A program for causing the computer to function as such.

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