Method for unattended delivery of package, and system and management device for the method

Abstract

To provide a method for implementing secure unattended delivery at low cost, and a system and a management device for implementing the method.SOLUTION: A method includes: transmitting, from a management server to a management device connected to communicate with the management server, package information assigned to a package to be delivered, the management device being disposed in a secure space in which security against intrusion by unspecified persons and the safety of the package are ensured; placing the package in the secure space; recognizing an image of the inside of the secure space by means of the management device, and transmitting the image to the management server; recognizing the placed package by means of the management device on the basis of the image and the package information; and transmitting the image from the management server to a communication terminal designated by a recipient of the package.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1B

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] One embodiment of the present invention relates to a method for placing and distributing packages, and a system and management device for implementing this method. [Background technology]

[0002] When a package is delivered to a recipient, the recipient may not be at home. In such cases, a delivery method called "delivery to a designated location" is sometimes adopted as a way to avoid redelivery of the package. This method does not involve placing the package in a lockable locker or the like, but rather involves the recipient designating a location that is freely accessible by third parties, including the package deliverer, (for example, a front door, a garage, an unlocked storeroom, or a delivery box), and the package is delivered to that location. This not only relieves the recipient from the stress of being required to be at home, but also reduces the burden on the deliverer of having to redeliver the package (for example, see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2022-133219 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An object of one embodiment of the present invention is to provide a novel method for leaving and delivering a package to a recipient, and a system and a management device for implementing this method. Alternatively, an object of one embodiment of the present invention is to provide a method for implementing secure delivery at low cost, and a system and a management device for implementing this method. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] One embodiment of the present invention is a method for placing and disposing of parcels, which includes transmitting parcel information attached to a parcel to be delivered from a management server to a management device that is placed in a security space in which security against intrusion by unspecified persons and safety of the parcel are ensured and that is communicatively connected to the management server, placing the parcel in the security space, obtaining an image of the inside of the security space with the management device and transmitting the image to the management server, recognizing the placed parcel with the management device based on the image and the parcel information, and transmitting the image from the management server to a communication terminal designated by a recipient of the parcel.

[0006] One embodiment of the present invention is a system for delivering packages. This system includes a management server and a management device. The management device is placed in a security space in which security against intrusion by unspecified persons and safety of packages are ensured, and is communicatively connected to the management server. The management device is configured to receive package information attached to the package from the management server, obtain an image of the security space and transmit it to the management server, and recognize the package placed in the security space based on the image and the package information. The management server is configured to transmit the image to a communication terminal designated by a recipient of the package.

[0007] One embodiment of the present invention is a management device. This management device is placed in a security space where security against intrusion by unspecified persons and safety of luggage are ensured and luggage is placed. The management device includes an imaging unit configured to acquire an image of the security space, a transceiver unit configured to receive luggage information attached to the luggage, and a control unit configured to recognize the placed luggage based on the image and the luggage information. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1A] FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of a security space used in a delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1B] FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of a security space used in a delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of a storage facility that can be used in a delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] 1 is a schematic diagram of a delivery system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a management device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] 4 is a flowchart illustrating a delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6A] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a container that can be used in a delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6B] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7A] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a container that can be used in a delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7B] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a container that can be used in a delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8A] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a container that can be used in a delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8B] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a container that can be used in a delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] 4 is a flowchart illustrating a delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, etc. However, the present invention can be embodied in various forms without departing from the gist of the present invention, and should not be construed as being limited to the description of the embodiments exemplified below.

[0010] In order to clarify the description, the drawings may show the width, thickness, shape, etc. of each part in a schematic manner compared to the actual embodiment, but these are merely examples and do not limit the interpretation of the present invention. In this specification and each drawing, elements having the same functions as those described in the previous drawings may be given the same reference numerals, and duplicated descriptions may be omitted.

[0011] First Embodiment In this embodiment, a method for placing and delivering luggage according to one embodiment of the present invention (hereinafter also referred to as this delivery method), a system for realizing this delivery method (hereinafter also referred to as the delivery system), and a management device will be described.

[0012] 1. Overview of this delivery method In this delivery method, the package to be delivered is left there and then picked up by the recipient. However, the package is not left at a place with no security at all, but is left in a secure space where a certain level of security against access by unspecified third parties and the safety of the package are ensured, and where only specific people (hereinafter referred to as specific users) who have been registered in advance as users in the delivery system described below are permitted to use. Delivery of the package to the secure space is designated by the sender of the package or the recipient, who is a specific user.

[0013] The secure space is provided with a security mechanism to ensure a certain level of security. Examples of the security mechanism include a locking mechanism and a monitoring mechanism. By providing a security mechanism, a space that was not previously intended to be used as a facility for storing and delivering packages can be constructed as a space for storing and delivering packages. This makes it possible to build a delivery system at low cost.

[0014] When a locking mechanism is used as a security mechanism, for example, as shown in the schematic plan view of Fig. 1A and the schematic side view of Fig. 1B, a security space 100 is a space in which a lockable door 102 is provided as a locking mechanism, and a specific user unlocks the security space 100 using a specific code such as a PIN number, a key, a magnetic card, an ID card such as an identification card equipped with an integrated circuit (IC) chip, or the like. Alternatively, the security space 100 may be configured to lock and unlock the locking mechanism using biometric information such as the specific user's face, fingerprint, palm print, or the like.

[0015] Alternatively, if an entry restriction is imposed on the site or building itself in which the secure space 100 is placed, the entry restriction may be used as a locking mechanism for the secure space 100. For example, if entry restriction is imposed at the gate of the site or building based on information about a specific user stored in a magnetic card or IC chip, the gate may be used as a locking mechanism. Therefore, an open space within the site or building can be used as the secure space 100.

[0016] For this reason, when the locking mechanism is used as a security mechanism, the security space 100 is provided in a facility where users are restricted. For example, the security space 100 is provided in the site or building of a collective housing such as an apartment building, a company, an educational facility, a medical institution, a nursing facility, or the like, or in the site or building of various facilities such as a sports facility, a commercial facility, and an entertainment facility where users are restricted. In this case, the specific user is a person who belongs to a group related to the various facilities in which the security space 100 is provided and whose identity has been verified. For example, when the security space 100 is provided in a collective housing, the specific user is a resident of the collective housing. When the security space 100 is provided in the site or building of a company, an educational facility, a medical institution, a nursing facility, or the like, the specific user is a servant or employee of the facility. When the security space 100 is provided in the site or building of various facilities such as a sports facility, a commercial facility, and an entertainment facility, the specific user is a servant or employee of the facility, and a user who has been permitted to use the facility in advance.

[0017] On the other hand, when a monitoring mechanism is used as a security mechanism, a management device 130 shown in Fig. 1A or 1B is used. The management device 130 is equipped with an imaging device, and images captured by the imaging device function as the monitoring mechanism, although details of the management device 130 will be described later. In this case, a locking mechanism may or may not be provided in the security space 100. In the latter case, the door 102 is not provided, or the door 102 is permanently unlocked.

[0018] Therefore, when the monitoring mechanism is used as the security mechanism, the security space 100 can be installed at any location and is not limited to the above-mentioned locations. For example, the security space 100 may be installed at stations, parking lots, roadsides, commercial facilities such as convenience stores and supermarkets, entertainment facilities such as pachinko parlors, and public offices such as city halls, where the users are not specified. In this case, a specified user can use this delivery method by registering as a user in this delivery system. On the other hand, an unspecified third party who is not registered as a user can access the security space 100 and the parcels that have been left there. However, since the monitoring mechanism functions at all times, it is possible to create a deterrent effect against unspecified third parties accessing the parcels.

[0019] Furthermore, the luggage placed in the security space 100 is placed in a location that can be accessed by a specific user without any restrictions. In other words, the security space 100 is configured so that once a specific user enters the security space 100, the luggage placed in the security space 100 can be accessed without any restrictions. Therefore, for example, as shown in Figs. 1A and 1B, the luggage is placed in a storage facility 104 such as a shelf, a platform, or a desk that does not have partitions, walls, or doors. When using a storage facility 104 that does not have partitions, walls, or partitions for placing luggage such as a shelf, a platform, or a desk, a marker 106 may be attached to set a partition or indicate coordinates as shown in Fig. 1A. The marker 106 may be attached using, for example, ink, tape, or a sticker, or may be formed with unevenness formed by embossing. Although not shown, the luggage may be placed on the floor of the security space 100 or in a box placed on the floor or shelf. In this case, the marker 106 may also be attached to the floor.

[0020] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 2, a delivery box having one or more lockers each equipped with a door 108 may be provided in the security space 100 as the storage facility 104, and one or more packages may be placed in each locker. In this case, the lockers are not locked. That is, each locker does not have a locking mechanism or does not use a locking mechanism. When using lockers equipped with doors 108, a cooling device may be connected to the locker to function as a refrigerator or freezer. Alternatively, an existing refrigerator or freezer may be used as the storage facility 104.

[0021] As described above, only specific users can access each security space 100. Therefore, even if all specific users have unrestricted access to packages left and delivered within the security space 100, unspecified third parties cannot access the security space 100, ensuring sufficient security. In addition, since the identities of specific users are known, an environment can be created in which malicious intent such as intentionally receiving packages belonging to other specific users is less likely to occur. Furthermore, since there is no need for large-scale storage facilities such as lockers that can be locked to store each package or delivery boxes equipped with communication functions, the security space 100 and the storage facilities 104 installed there can be constructed at low cost by appropriately using existing spaces and simple storage facilities 104.

[0022] In a conventional delivery method using a parcel box with lockable lockers, if all the lockers are in use, the parcel cannot be delivered and redelivery is required. However, in the present delivery method, since it is possible to use storage facilities 104 without partitions, there are no partitions that restrict the placement of parcels, and therefore parcels can be placed efficiently, resulting in a significant improvement in storage efficiency. This significantly reduces the possibility of redelivery being required, reducing delivery costs and saving on human resources required for delivery.

[0023] 2. Delivery System FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of a delivery system 110 for implementing this delivery method. As shown in this figure, the delivery system 110 includes a management server 120 and a management device 130 that is communicatively connected to the management server 120. The management device 130 is disposed in each security space 100 as shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B. For example, the management device 130 may be installed in the storage facility 104. Preferably, the management device 130 is attached to the ceiling or wall that constitutes the security space 100. As described later, a light source is provided in the management device 130, and light from the light source can be irradiated onto the placed baggage and storage facility. For this reason, light irradiation can be effectively performed by hanging the management device 130 from the ceiling or hanging it on the wall.

[0024] The communication between the management server 120 and the management device 130 is performed via a network 112. An example of the network 112 is a wide area network such as the Internet. The management server 120 and the management device 130 are further connected via the network 112 to a delivery management server 150 managed by a delivery company that provides a parcel delivery service, and a communication terminal 170 such as a smartphone or tablet, a portable watch or glasses with a communication function, or a head-mounted portable communication terminal designated by a recipient of the parcel who is a specific user. The communication terminal 170 can also be configured to be communicatively connected to the management server 120 and the management device 130 via the network 112. The management device 130 may be connected to the communication terminal 170 via short-range wireless communication by WiFi or another local area network. The management server 120 and the delivery management server may be integrated, and these functions may be realized by one server.

[0025] The delivery system 110 may further include a store server 160 provided in a store that provides the product. The store server 160 is communicatively connected to the delivery management server 150 via the network 112. The store may be a physical store such as a general retail store such as a supermarket or a department store, a liquor store, a dry cleaning store, a restaurant or coffee shop, a fast food restaurant, a bookstore, a stationery store, or a drug store that handles cosmetics and medicines. The store may also be a store that conducts electronic commerce on an electronic commerce platform that the store has built itself, or an electronic commerce platform provided by a business that provides a platform for a fee or free of charge (hereinafter, a platform provider). Therefore, the store does not necessarily have to be a physical store. There are no restrictions on the product, and products belonging to any type of business are included. The product may also be a rental product (rental shoes, rental costumes, rental bags, etc.) or a sample product (sample cosmetics, sample food, etc.).

[0026] The configuration of these components will be explained below, but explanations will be omitted because the recipient's communication terminal 170, delivery management server 150, and store server 160 can be constructed using existing computing devices such as servers and computers, or mobile communication terminals such as smartphones and tablets.

[0027] 2-1. Management Server The management server 120 is a device having a calculation function and a communication function, and receives a series of information (package information) associated with each package by the delivery company from the delivery management server 150. The package information includes, for example, information about the recipient (contact information such as the recipient's address, name, telephone number or email address, age, sex, occupation, identifier for identifying the recipient, etc.), information about the package (contents contained in the package, weight, size, and shape of the package, identifier for identifying the package, desired delivery date and time, designated security space, placement location of the package designated by the recipient in the security space, loading availability, etc.), information about the sender (contact information such as address, name or title, telephone number or email address, attributes, etc.), information about the delivery company (identifier for identifying the delivery company, etc.). A part arbitrarily selected from the package information, for example, an identifier for identifying the recipient or package, etc., may be displayed as an identifier associated with the package (specifically, information including a package identifier such as a two-dimensional code or a barcode on the package or a tag attached to the package or package). The management server 120 is further configured to transmit all or a portion of the package information (e.g., information about the package) to the management device 130. The management server 120 is further configured to receive images and updated images (described below) within the security space 100 from the management device 130.

[0028] In this delivery method, when a package is left at the delivery site, a notification (delivery notification) notifying that delivery by leaving the package has been completed can be sent from the management device 130 to the management server 120 via the delivery person's operation. Alternatively, instead of or in addition to sending the delivery notification from the management device 130 to the management server 120, a delivery notification may be sent to the delivery management server 150 from the delivery assistant terminal 180 carried by the delivery person who left the package. In the latter case, the management server 120 is configured to receive a notification (delivery completion notification) from the delivery management server 150 to notify that delivery has been completed.

[0029] The management server 120 is further configured to transmit information regarding the delivery of the package (delivery information) to the recipient's communication terminal 170 after receiving the delivery completion notification. The delivery information includes a notification that the placement of the package has been completed, as well as an image within the security space 100 and an updated image thereof, which will be described later. The delivery information may also include an authentication code for authenticating the recipient (e.g., a password, or an authentication image such as a barcode or two-dimensional code). By the recipient receiving the image captured in the security space 100 on the communication terminal 170, the recipient can easily find and pick up the package within the security space 100.

[0030] 2-2.Management device (1) Composition 4, the management device 130 includes, in addition to a control unit 132, an imaging unit 134, a storage unit 136, a transmission / reception unit 138, and an input unit 140. The management device 130 may further include a display unit 142, an audio output unit 144, a reader 146, and a light source 148.

[0031] The control unit 132 has a central processing unit and controls the entire management device 130. The storage unit 136 is a device configured to store basic application software for operating the management device 130 and applications that define the operation of the control unit 132, as well as to store the results of calculations by the control unit 132, images acquired by the imaging unit 134, updated images, and package information transmitted from the management server 120. The storage unit 136 includes a main storage device such as a random access memory (RAM) or a read-only memory (ROM), and an external storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a flash memory.

[0032] The imaging unit 134 is configured to acquire images, and includes, for example, a charge-coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) element. The imaging unit 134 is configured to periodically acquire images of the inside of the security space 100 in accordance with an instruction from the control unit 132 so that at least one of the packages to be placed or the storage equipment 106 such as a shelf or locker on which the packages are placed is captured. The image acquisition interval can be appropriately selected, for example, from a range of 1 / 120 seconds to 1 second, thereby making it possible to acquire still images and moving images of the inside of the security space 100. The imaging unit 134 may also be configured to acquire biometric information of a delivery person or a specific user who has entered the security space.

[0033] The transmitting / receiving unit 138 is configured to communicate with at least the management server 120 via the network 112, and can be configured by appropriately combining known transmitting modules and receiving modules.

[0034] The input unit 140 is a component for inputting information to the management device 130, and may be configured with, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a pointer, a numeric keypad, or the like. Alternatively, the input unit 140 may be configured with a touch sensor module mounted on the display unit 142 described later. By providing the input unit 140, it is possible to accept input from a delivery person or a recipient.

[0035] The display unit 142 functions as an auxiliary device for inputting information into the management device 130 or an information providing device for providing various information to a delivery person or a recipient. For example, a liquid crystal display module or an organic electroluminescence display module can be used as the display unit 142. As described above, the display unit 142 and the input unit 140 may be integrated by mounting a touch sensor module on the display unit 142. The display unit 142 can be configured to display, in accordance with commands from the control unit 132, luggage information, the location of luggage to be left, the location of luggage that has been left, as well as various warnings in response to input via the input unit 140.

[0036] The audio output unit 144 is a speaker, and can be configured to output various warning sounds and voice messages stored in the memory unit 136 according to commands from the control unit 132. This can assist the delivery person in leaving the package and the recipient in receiving the package. For example, the audio output unit 144 can be configured to issue a warning sound or message when the recipient picks up the package by mistake or when the delivery person leaves the package in the wrong place.

[0037] The reader 146 is configured to be used for reading an identifier attached to a package, an authentication code presented by a recipient, etc. As the reader, a publicly known barcode reader or two-dimensional code reader may be used.

[0038] The light source 148 is configured to irradiate the entire security space 100 with light in accordance with commands from the control unit 132, and is also configured to selectively irradiate light onto baggage that has been placed or onto the location of baggage to be placed. An example of the light source is a combination of an inorganic electroluminescent element and a lens. By appropriately adjusting the focal length of the lens, the light irradiation range can be arbitrarily controlled.

[0039] (2) Function In the management device 130, the control unit 132 controls the imaging unit 134, memory unit 136, transmission / reception unit 138, input unit 140, display unit 142, audio output unit 144, reader 146, light source 148, etc., thereby enabling the management device 130 to perform the various functions described below.

[0040] A. Selecting and indicating the location for leaving packages As described above, the management server 120 transmits all or part of the baggage information to the management device 130. Therefore, in accordance with the command of the control unit 132, the management device 130 stores the baggage information received by the transmission / reception unit 138 in the storage unit 136, and further, based on the baggage information, can select a location in the storage facility 104 for the baggage to be placed, taking into consideration the available space in the storage facility 104 and the size and weight of the baggage. For example, a location where the newly placed baggage can be placed is selected based on the size and weight of the newly placed baggage and the location of the baggage already placed in the storage facility 104 acquired by the imaging unit 134. Alternatively, the location of the baggage may be selected according to the weight of the baggage. For example, the upper part of the storage facility may be selected as the location for light baggage, and the lower part of the storage facility may be selected as the location for heavy baggage. If the storage facility is a shelf, a shelf located relatively higher and a shelf located relatively lower may be selected for light baggage and heavy baggage, respectively. If the recipient has specified a location for the package within the security space 100, the location may be selected from the location included in the package information received from the management server 120. Furthermore, if multiple packages for the same recipient are to be left behind, the locations may be selected so that these packages are placed close to each other. In this case, the locations may be selected so that multiple packages are loaded.

[0041] When there is no room in the storage facility 104, the management device 130 may be configured to select the location of an already placed package as the location of the newly placed package, taking into consideration the weight, size, and shape contained in the package information of the newly placed package, and the weight, contents, shape, and loading feasibility contained in the package information of the already placed package. For example, a location where a large, heavy package that can be loaded is placed may be selected as the location of the newly placed package. This allows the newly placed package to be stacked on top of the already placed package, making effective use of the storage facility 104.

[0042] The placement location of the parcel can be presented to the delivery person by the management device 130. The placement location can be presented by displaying the placement location on the display unit 142. In this case, the display unit 142 can display the area divided by the marker 106 or the designated coordinates using characters or figures (for example, a map of the security space 100). Alternatively, the placement location can be presented by illuminating the placement location using the light source 148. Furthermore, the placement location can be presented using the audio output unit 144. When using light, for example, if the storage facility 104 is a shelf, light can be irradiated onto a part of the shelf, and if the storage facility 104 is a box with multiple lockers, light can be irradiated onto the corresponding locker. When a new parcel to be placed is to be loaded, the audio output unit 144, the display unit 142, and / or the light source 148 can be used to present which parcel to load on top of the parcel, in accordance with an instruction from the control unit 132.

[0043] The placement location of the parcel to be left is presented in response to an input operation by the deliverer on the input unit 140 or a reading operation by the reader 146. For example, the deliverer inputs parcel information using the input unit 140 of the management device 130, and the control unit 132 selects a placement location corresponding to the parcel information input in response to this input. The input of parcel information may be performed by the deliverer having the reader 146 read an identifier associated with the parcel. Alternatively, the deliverer may read the identifier using the delivery assistant terminal 180, and notify the management server 120 that the parcel will be left via the delivery assistant terminal 180 through the delivery management server 150. In this case, the management server 120 transmits all or part of the parcel information to the management device 130. The management device 130 may present the placement location of the parcel to be left based on the received parcel information. The placement location is stored in the storage unit 136.

[0044] In this way, by presenting the placement location of the package to be delivered, the delivery person can place the package in an orderly manner in the storage facility. In addition, since the image captured by the imaging unit 134 is stored in the memory unit 136, the delivery person can be encouraged to place the package in an orderly manner in the selected location, rather than placing it in a disorganized manner. This makes it possible to ensure and maintain the beauty and safety of the security space 100.

[0045] However, instead of the management device 130 selecting or indicating the location where the package will be placed, the delivery person may place the package appropriately and then input the location where the package has been placed (category, coordinates, etc.) to the management device 130 via the input unit 140.

[0046] B. Recognition and verification of left-behind packages The management device 130 can further be configured to recognize the baggage placed in the storage facility 104. In this case, specifically, the control unit 132 controls the imaging unit 134 to acquire an image of the security space 100 including the placed baggage. At this time, the control unit 132 may further send a command to the light source 148 to irradiate light onto the baggage and its surroundings. Also, the light irradiation range may be set using the placement position of the baggage input by the delivery person. By having the imaging unit 134 acquire an image while the light source 148 is irradiating light, a clear image of the baggage can be acquired even if the security space 100 is dark. The acquired image is stored in the memory unit 136 according to the command of the control unit 132, and is also transmitted to the management server 120 via the transmission / reception unit 138.

[0047] Thereafter, the management device 130 compares the acquired image with the size and shape of the luggage included in the luggage information, and recognizes the luggage included in the image. For example, an image (blank image) of the storage facility 104 where no luggage has been placed in advance is acquired by the imaging unit 134, and this is stored in the storage unit 136. When recognizing the luggage, the blank image is subtracted from the image acquired by the imaging unit 134, and the difference is treated as the image of the luggage. By comparing the size and shape of this image of the luggage with the size and shape of the luggage that has been placed, the luggage placed in the storage facility 104 can be recognized and specified, and as a result, it can be verified whether each luggage has been correctly placed at a location specified by the recipient or a location selected by the management device 130. Note that, when recognizing the luggage, an identifier associated with the luggage included in the image acquired by the imaging unit 134 may be used. This allows multiple luggage of the same or similar size and shape to be distinguished and recognized even if they are placed. If the package is not placed correctly, the control unit 132 may control the audio output unit 144 and the display unit 142 to output or display a warning sound or a warning message to inform the deliverer of the fact. Conversely, even if the package is placed correctly, the control unit 132 may output or display a voice message or the like to inform the deliverer of the fact.

[0048] By utilizing this recognition function, even if the delivery person decides on the location of the package by himself, it is possible to identify the package and its location. Therefore, even if the delivery person does not input the location of the package, it is possible to know where the package was placed.

[0049] C. Monitoring of security space As described above, the management device 130 is configured to periodically acquire images of the security space 100 using the imaging unit 134. This allows the entry and exit status of people in the security space 100 to be constantly recorded, which contributes to crime prevention measures. For example, the management device 130 may be configured to transmit the acquired video to the management server 120 in real time. Furthermore, in response to a request from the communication terminal 170, this video may be transmitted from the management server 120 to the communication terminal 170. This allows the status within the security space 100 to be checked at any time on the communication terminal 170. This mechanism is the monitoring mechanism for the security space 100 described above, and the monitoring mechanism can provide a deterrent against malicious intent by unspecified third parties.

[0050] Furthermore, the management device 130 may be configured to recognize the left and placed parcel based on the image acquired by the imaging unit 134 and the size and shape of the parcel included in the parcel information, and to determine whether the parcel has been moved. This determination can also be made by comparing images acquired periodically. This allows the location of the left and placed parcel to be accurately monitored even if it has been moved from its initial placement location. When it is determined that the parcel has been moved, the control unit 132 commands the imaging unit 134 and the transmission and reception unit 138 to acquire an image of the parcel (an updated image) again and transmit it to the management server 120. At this time, the control unit 132 may control the light source 148 to irradiate the parcel with light. The location of the moved parcel is also stored in the storage unit 136. As described above, the delivery information transmitted by the management server 120 to the communication terminal 170 designated by the recipient includes the image of the parcel and the updated image. Therefore, the recipient can easily find the parcel even if the parcel has moved within the security space 100 after being left and placed.

[0051] D. Indication of location at time of receipt As described above, since the management device 130 can constantly monitor the inside of the security space 100, it can be configured to present the location of the placed package when the recipient receives the package. For this purpose, the control unit 132 controls the storage unit 136, the imaging unit 134, the reader 146, etc. to authenticate and identify the recipient. For example, the recipient inputs an authentication code that is set in advance or transmitted from the management server 120 using the input unit 140 or reads it using the reader 146. The control unit 132 is configured to verify the receipt by comparing the input or read authentication code with an authentication code previously stored in the storage unit 136. Alternatively, the management device 130 may be configured to store biometric information of a specific user previously acquired using the imaging unit 134 in the storage unit 136, and verify the biometric information of the recipient acquired by the imaging unit 134 to perform authentication.

[0052] If the recipient is not properly authenticated, the control unit 132 controls the audio output unit 144 or the display unit 142 to notify the recipient accordingly. Conversely, if the recipient is properly authenticated, the control unit 132 specifies the package to be received by the recipient based on the package information, and controls the display unit 142, the audio output unit 144, the light source 148, and the like to present the location of the package. Specifically, the display unit 142 may display the location, the audio output unit 144 may output the location, or the light source 148 may irradiate the location with light. The recipient receives the package that has been placed at the location that has been presented. This completes the receiving operation.

[0053] E. Receiving and processing luggage As described above, the imaging unit 134 periodically acquires images of the inside of the security space 100. For this reason, the management device 130 may be configured to use the acquired images to determine whether or not the recipient has correctly received the package. For example, by using an image obtained after the recipient has been authenticated, it is possible to quickly determine whether or not the recipient has received the package that he or she should receive, or whether or not the recipient has received a package different from the package. When it is determined that the recipient has correctly received the package, the management device 130 may be configured to output a voice message and / or an image to notify the recipient using the audio output unit 144 and / or the display unit 142. Conversely, when it is determined that the recipient has received the wrong package, the management device 130 may be configured to output a warning sound or a warning message and / or a warning image to notify the recipient using the audio output unit 144 and / or the display unit 142.

[0054] After the recipient receives the package, the management device 130 can accept input of a receipt notification operation for notifying the recipient that receipt of the package has been completed. The receipt notification operation by the recipient may be performed by the input unit 140 or by using the reader 146. Specifically, an input screen stored in the memory unit 136 is displayed on the display unit 142, and the recipient is prompted to input that the package has been received via the input unit 140. Alternatively, the recipient may be prompted to perform an operation to read an identifier attached to the package with the reader 146. The management device 130 is configured to transmit a signal (receipt signal) to the management server 120 to certify that receipt of the package has been completed after the recipient completes the receipt notification operation.

[0055] If the recipient does not perform the receipt notification operation, the management device 130 may use the above-mentioned package recognition function to confirm receipt. That is, the management device 130 may be configured to use the image captured by the imaging unit 134 to confirm that the package has been received by the recipient, and then transmit a receipt signal to the management server 120.

[0056] Conversely, the management device 130 can be configured to urge the recipient to receive the package if the package is not received in a timely manner. Specifically, the package is constantly recognized and tracked by monitoring the package in the security space 100 using images acquired by the imaging unit 134. This allows the status of each package to be grasped on the management device 130. If it is determined that the package remains in the security space 100 even after a certain period of time (e.g., three days, one week, etc.) has passed since the package was left behind, or if it is determined that the package remains in the security space 100 even after the recipient's desired delivery date and time has passed, the management device 130 is configured to create a reminder notice and transmit it to the management server 120. The management server 120, which has received the reminder notice, transmits this notice to the communication terminal 170, thereby urging the recipient to receive the package.

[0057] 3.Shipping method The details of this delivery method will be described below. In the following detailed description, as an example, a case will be described in which a specific user orders a product from a store, and a delivery company places a package including the product in the secure space 100 and delivers it.

[0058] (1) Product ordering and delivery requests As shown in the scheme of FIG. 5, first, a recipient orders a product from a store and requests delivery of a package containing the product (S100). The product order and delivery request may be made to the store verbally or by fax, or by accessing the store server 160 via the communication terminal 170 or another communication terminal. In the latter case, the recipient uses the communication terminal 170 or another communication terminal to access a platform built by the store or a platform provider, and requests the store to order and deliver the product on the platform. The recipient may also notify the store of the desired date and time of delivery of the product directly or on the platform. When the store confirms and accepts the order, the order of the product is confirmed.

[0059] Furthermore, at this time, the recipient specifies that this delivery method is to be selected. The security space 100 to which the package containing the product is to be delivered may be specified in advance by the recipient, or may be specified by the recipient when ordering the product. Furthermore, the recipient may specify a location in the security space 100 for the package to be placed, or may assign a priority to the placement location. For example, if the storage facility 104 is a shelf or box, the recipient may specify a specific position (or height) on the shelf or box. This information is transmitted from the communication terminal 170 to the store server 160, or input to the store server 160.

[0060] Thereafter, the store uses the store server 160 to request the delivery company to deliver the package directly or via the platform provider (S102). That is, a delivery request notice for requesting delivery is sent from the store server 160 to the delivery management server 150. The delivery request notice includes at least information on the recipient and information on the package among the package information.

[0061] The product may be delivered packaged or wrapped in an appropriate material, or may be delivered in a packaged or unpackaged state. When the product is packaged, all or part of the package may be packaged in a container having the same shape and size. For example, as shown in FIG. 6A, a container 200 having a body 202, a lid 204, and a handle 208 may be used to accommodate one or more products, and the container 200 may be placed in the accommodation facility 104 of the security space 100. The container 200 may further have a lock 206 for locking the lid 204. The shape of the container 200 may be determined arbitrarily, and may be, for example, a hexahedron as a whole when the lid 204 is closed. The size of the container 200 may also be arbitrary, but the length in the longitudinal direction of the inner dimension may be, for example, 150 mm to 600 mm, 200 mm to 500 mm, or 200 mm to 400 mm, and is typically a length corresponding to A4 size (297 mm). The inner length in the short direction is, for example, 100 mm to 500 mm, 150 mm to 400 mm, or 200 mm to 300 mm, and is typically a width (210 mm) corresponding to A4 size. The inner height is, for example, 50 mm to 250 mm, 75 mm to 150 mm, or 90 mm to 125 mm, and is typically 100 mm. Since the size of most products to be delivered falls within the above-mentioned range, by configuring container 200 to satisfy the above parameters, most of the products to be delivered can be delivered using container 200.

[0062] By using containers 200 of the same shape and size to place and arrange the containers 200 with cargo housed therein, the handling of the cargo becomes easier, and the work efficiency of the delivery personnel increases. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 6B, by stacking a plurality of containers 200, a large number of containers 200 can be arranged in an orderly manner in the storage facility 104. This contributes to a highly efficient use of the security space 100. Note that a cargo collapse prevention structure may be formed in the container 200 in order to prevent the cargo from collapsing when a plurality of containers 200 are loaded. There are no restrictions on the cargo collapse prevention structure, but for example, as shown in FIG. 6A, one or more linear grooves 212 may be provided on the bottom surface, and a linear protrusion 214 that engages with the groove 212 may be formed on the top surface (lid 204).

[0063] Alternatively, goods may be transported using a plurality of types of containers 200 with different sizes or shapes. For example, as shown in Fig. 7A, two types of containers 200-1 and 200-2 may be used, each having the same length and width of the main body 202 but different heights. In the example shown in Fig. 7A, the length L1 and width W1 of the main body 202 of the container 200-1 are the same or substantially the same as the length L3 and width W2 of the main body 202 of the container 200-2, respectively, but the height H2 is greater than the height H1. The height H2 may be twice the height H1.

[0064] Alternatively, a plurality of types of containers 200 may be configured so that the occupied area of ​​two containers 200 when arranged side by side is the same or substantially the same as that of one container 200. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8A, containers 200-3 and 200-4 having different bottom areas of the main body 202 may be used. Here, the length L3 of the container 200-3 having the larger bottom area is twice or substantially twice the width W4 of the container 200-4 having the smaller bottom area, and the width W3 of the container 200-3 and the length L4 of the container 200-4 are the same or substantially the same. The heights H3 and H4 of the main body 202 of the container 200-3 and the container 200-4 may be the same or different.

[0065] Even when multiple types of containers 200 are used, by setting the height, width, and length of the main body 202 as described above, multiple containers 200 can be arranged in an orderly manner in the storage facility 104, as shown in Figures 7B and 8B, even when various products of different heights are to be shipped, thereby enabling efficient use of the security space 100.

[0066] The recipient of the parcel undergoes user registration prior to ordering the product or when specifying this delivery method. Specifically, the recipient transmits information required for user registration (the recipient's name, address, telephone number, email address, one or more security spaces 100 to which the parcel is to be delivered, payment method, etc.) to the management server 120. This information may include biometric information required for biometric authentication of the recipient (biometric information of face, palm, fingerprint, etc.). After receiving the necessary information, the management server 120 registers the recipient as a user. At this time, an authentication code for authenticating the recipient in the management device 130 may be transmitted to the recipient's communication terminal 170.

[0067] (2) Delivery of packages The delivery company that has been requested to deliver the package transmits package information to the management server 120 via the delivery management server 150 (S104). This allows the delivery status of the package to be grasped on the management server 120. The package is then delivered to the security space 100 by the delivery company. The package information may also be transmitted directly from the delivery assistant terminal 180 to the management device 130.

[0068] The parcel is delivered by a delivery person (S106), and in the case where the security mechanism of the security space 100 is a locking mechanism, the delivery person obtains access permission to the security space 100 at the time of delivery. For example, the access permission may be obtained from the administrator of the security space 100 every time a delivery is made. Alternatively, the access permission may be obtained in advance from the administrator of the security space 100 for a certain period of time. In this case, the delivery person may be issued in advance a key, a magnetic card, an ID card, an authentication code, or the like for unlocking the security space 100. Also, as described above, when the delivery person enters the security space 100, biometric information of the delivery person may be obtained using the imaging unit 134. This makes it possible to encourage the delivery person to make an accurate delivery, and to provide a deterrent effect against intrusion of unspecified persons who have not obtained access permission into the security space 100.

[0069] (3) Selecting a location for luggage and placing the luggage Next, a placement location for the parcel is selected (S108). Specifically, first, the delivery person makes the management device 130 recognize the parcel to be delivered within the security space 100. For example, the delivery person uses the input unit 140 to input part of the parcel information (for example, an identifier attached to the parcel). Alternatively, the identifier is read into the management device 130 using the reader 146. Alternatively, the identifier is read by the delivery assistant terminal 180, and information included in the identifier is transmitted to the delivery management server 150. This information is transmitted from the delivery management server 150 to the management server 120, and as a result, the parcel to be placed is specified by the management server 120. The management server 120 further transmits all or part of the information related to the parcel to the management device 130. Through such a process, the management device 130 can grasp the parcel to be delivered, and the management device 130 can select the placement location of the parcel.

[0070] In this way, the management device 130 obtains package information of the package to be delivered from the management server 120. As described above, the management device 130 can constantly grasp the placement of the package by periodically taking images of the inside of the security space 100. Therefore, the management device 130 can select a suitable placement location for the package to be left on the basis of the size, shape, and weight of the package contained in the package information, and the placement of packages that have already been placed. At this time, if the recipient has specified a placement location, the placement location may be selected with priority.

[0071] If there is not enough room in the security space 100 or the storage facility 160, a search is made for already placed luggage that allows loading of other luggage from the information stored in the memory unit 136, and the shape, size, and weight of the already placed luggage are compared with the shape, size, and weight of the newly placed luggage. If it is determined that there is no problem in placing the newly placed luggage on top of the already placed luggage, the location where the already placed luggage is placed may be selected as the placement location. The criteria for determining whether or not to load the luggage may be set arbitrarily, and for example, it may be determined that loading is possible when at least one of the shape, size, and weight of the already placed luggage is smaller than the shape, size, and weight of the newly placed luggage.

[0072] Thereafter, the display unit 142, the audio output unit 144, and / or the light source 148 of the management device 130 present the placement location to the delivery person. For example, the placement location may be displayed on the display unit 142, or a message informing the delivery person of the placement location may be output by the audio output unit 144. Alternatively, the light source 148 may be used to irradiate the placement location. This allows the delivery person to easily understand the placement location of the package and place the package.

[0073] After the parcel is left and delivered, a delivery notice is sent to notify that the delivery has been completed (S110). For example, the delivery person may use the input unit 140 to input that the delivery has been completed. At this time, the light source 148 may be used to irradiate the left and delivered parcel. If there are multiple parcels to be left and delivered, the light may be irradiated on the left and delivered parcels in any order or in the order in which they were left and delivered. After receiving this input operation, the management device 130 transmits a delivery notice to the management server 120. Alternatively, instead of inputting the information to the management device 130, the delivery notice may be transmitted to the delivery management server 150 via the delivery assistant terminal 180. Upon receiving this delivery notice, the delivery management server 150 transmits a delivery completion notice to the management server 120. Alternatively, instead of inputting the information to the management device 130 or using the delivery assistant terminal 180, the parcel recognition function of the management device 130 may be used. That is, the management device 130 recognizes the newly placed package using the image acquired by the imaging unit 134, and judges whether the shape and size of the package match those in the package information. If they match, a delivery notice is generated and transmitted to the management server 120 via the transmission / reception unit 138. If they do not match, an alarm sound or message is output or displayed via the audio output unit 144 or the display unit 142 to inform the deliverer of the situation. Through the above process, it is possible for the management server 120 to know that the package has been reliably placed.

[0074] When a container 200 is used, an authentication code 210 (two-dimensional code, barcode, number, other graphic form, etc.) including information about the container 200 (container information such as a serial number) and / or luggage information of luggage accommodated in the container 200 may be attached to one or more surfaces (side, top, front, etc.) of the container 200. The authentication code 210 including luggage information is read by the imaging unit 134 of the management device 130 and compared with luggage information transmitted from the management server 120, thereby enabling the identification of the left luggage. When the authentication code 210 includes container information, the container information may be transmitted to the delivery management server 150, and luggage information associated with the container information may be obtained from the delivery management server 150.

[0075] Although not shown in Fig. 5, during the delivery work by the delivery person, an image of the inside of the security space 100 may be acquired using the imaging unit 134, and it may be determined based on the acquired image whether the package has been correctly placed in the selected placement location. If the package has been correctly placed, a warning sound or a warning message may be output or displayed via the audio output unit 144 or the display unit 142 to inform the deliverer of the fact. Conversely, even if the package has been correctly placed, a voice message may be output or displayed to inform the deliverer of the fact.

[0076] If the delivery person judges that the placement location selected by the management device 130 is inappropriate, or if the delivery person decides on his / her own judgment to place the parcel at a placement location, the selection of the placement location described above does not have to be performed. In this case, the management device 130 first acquires package information from the management server 120. Then, the management device 130 uses a package recognition function to recognize and identify the package placed by the delivery person, and identifies the location where the package was placed.

[0077] (4) Sending delivery information As described above, the management device 130 is configured to periodically obtain and store images of the entire security space 100 and the accommodation facility 104 using the imaging unit 134. Therefore, after a package is placed and placed, an image of the package is obtained by the management device 130 and this image is transmitted to the management server 120 (S112).

[0078] After receiving the image, the management server 120 transmits the above-mentioned delivery information to the communication terminal 170 designated by the recipient after receiving the above-mentioned delivery notice or delivery completion notice (S114). This delivery information includes a notification that the delivery of the package has been completed, as well as an image of the package after it has been delivered. This allows the recipient to easily understand where the package has been delivered within the security space 100, along with the fact that it has been delivered. At this time, the date and time when the delivery information was transmitted may be recorded in the management server 120. Furthermore, the delivery information may include an authentication code for the management device 130 to authenticate the recipient, as described above. The recipient can use this authentication code to receive the package, which will be described later.

[0079] (5) Baggage monitoring As described above, in this delivery method, images of the inside of the security space 100 are acquired not only after the package has been left and delivered, but also on a regular basis, and the inside of the security space 100 is monitored. Therefore, the left and delivered packages can be constantly monitored by the management device 130 (S116). Specifically, by comparing images acquired at regular intervals using the imaging unit 134 with each other, even if the left and delivered packages are moved during the delivery work of the deliverer or when they are moved when another recipient receives them, the movement of the packages can be grasped and the location of each package can be tracked.

[0080] When the management device 130 recognizes that the package has been moved, it acquires an image of the package again and transmits the obtained updated image to the management server 120 (S118). The management server 120 transmits this updated image to the communication terminal 170 designated by the recipient. This allows the recipient to always know where the package has been placed, and to easily receive the package. Whether the package has been moved may be determined, for example, by whether the package has moved a distance greater than the width or length of the package. Note that the scheme shown in FIG. 5 is created so that monitoring of the package is stopped when the package receiving operation is started, but this scheme is only for the case where attention is focused on the delivery and receiving of one package, and monitoring within the security space 100 is constantly performed.

[0081] (6) Receiving your luggage When the recipient receives the package, the management device 130 authenticates the recipient using an authentication code that is preset or included in the delivery information (S120). For example, the recipient inputs a password included in the authentication code via the input unit 140. Alternatively, the reader 146 may read an authentication image included in the authentication code. Alternatively, the management device 130 may read the recipient's biometric information and authenticate the recipient by comparing it with biometric information previously registered in the management server 120. Through this operation, the management device 130 can authenticate the recipient and identify the package that the recipient should receive.

[0082] Thereafter, the management device 130 presents the location of the package using the display unit 142, the audio output unit 144, and / or the light source 148 (S122). For example, a map of the security space 100 may be displayed on the display unit 142, and the location of the package may be displayed within the map. Instead of or in addition to displaying the location, the audio output unit 144 may be used to notify the recipient of the location. Alternatively, light from the light source 148 may be irradiated onto the location. The presentation of the location by the management device 130 allows the recipient to quickly find and receive the package.

[0083] Since the imaging unit 134 continues to periodically capture images of the inside of the security space 100, the package taken by the recipient can be identified by comparing successive images. Therefore, if the recipient correctly receives the package, the display unit 142 and / or the audio output unit 144 may be used to notify the recipient, and conversely, if the recipient receives the wrong package, a warning display or sound may be displayed or generated by the display unit 142 and / or the audio output unit 144.

[0084] When the recipient receives the package, the recipient performs the above-mentioned receipt notification operation (S124). This operation allows the management device 130 to know that the receipt of the package has been completed, and then the management device 130 transmits a receipt signal to the management server 120 (S126). By receiving the receipt signal, the management server 120 can know that the package has been received by the specified recipient. However, if the recipient does not perform the receipt notification operation, the recognition function of the management device 130 may be used. For example, the image acquired by the imaging unit 134 is used to track the package that the recipient should receive. Then, when the package cannot be recognized in the security space 100, it may be determined that the package has been received, and a receipt signal may be generated and transmitted to the management server 120. In this case, the management server 120 may transmit a notification to the communication terminal 170 of the recipient to confirm that the recipient has actually received the package. By receiving this notification, the recipient can operate the communication terminal 170 to notify the management server 120 that the package has been received.

[0085] The management server 120 may be configured to record the date and time of receipt of the receipt signal. By recording the date and time of receipt of the receipt signal and the date and time of transmission of the delivery information, the time that the package stayed in the security space 100 can be known. Since the shorter the stay time, the more effectively the security space 100 can be utilized, some kind of benefit (incentive) may be provided to the recipient according to the stay time. Examples of incentives include a discount on delivery fees by the company operating the management server 120, preferential allocation of placement locations for packages, provision of products (e.g., consumables such as water, various samples, tickets to events such as movies, etc.), and provision of various other services. By providing an incentive to the recipient, the recipient is motivated to shorten the stay time of the package, and as a result, the security space 100 can be utilized more efficiently.

[0086] In the parcel delivery method according to the embodiment of the present invention, the parcel is placed and delivered in a secure space 100 where a certain level of security is ensured. Therefore, the deliverer is not forced to redeliver the parcel because the recipient is absent. This contributes to a significant reduction in the cost required for delivery and contributes to saving human resources in delivery work. At the same time, since the recipient is not required to be at home to receive the parcel, a less stressful delivery method can be provided.

[0087] Furthermore, there is no need for equipment such as boxes with lockable lockers within the secure space 100, and this delivery method with ensured security can be realized by placing existing general-purpose storage equipment such as shelves, simple lockers, and desks within the secure space 100. This allows for delivery at a lower cost.

[0088] In the above example, a case was described in which a specific user orders a product from a store and a delivery company places a package containing the product in the security space 100. However, the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to such a case and can also be applied to a case in which an individual uses multiple communication terminals 170 to ship a package to a specific user.

[0089] <Second embodiment> In this embodiment, a delivery method different from the delivery method described in the first embodiment will be described. Descriptions of configurations that are the same as or similar to those described in the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0090] The total number of parcels to be delivered is not necessarily constant, but varies due to various factors. Therefore, if the total number of parcels to be delivered exceeds the capacity of the security space 100, delivery delays may occur, and redelivery may be unavoidable. For this reason, in this embodiment, the management server 120 predicts demand for the security space 100 based on past performance of delivered parcels, and the delivery burden is leveled out.

[0091] As described in the first embodiment, parcel information of parcels to be delivered is transmitted from the delivery management server 150 to the management server 120. Therefore, the delivery record and the total number of parcels scheduled to be delivered to each security space 100 can be grasped on the management server 120. A supervised learning model is used for demand forecasting in the management server 120. Specifically, the past usage record of each security space 100 is used as training data. The past usage record is, for example, the total number of parcels actually delivered for each security space 100 for a certain period of time in the past (for example, one year, six months, three months, etc.). The training data is collected for each security space 100 and stored in the memory unit of the management server 120.

[0092] In constructing a supervised learning model, various parameters can be used as input data (feature data). Examples of feature data include a store identifier (store ID) that identifies the store from which the product included in the package was ordered, an identifier (product ID) and category that identifies the product, the size and number of packages, the time that the package stayed in the security space 100, an identifier that identifies the delivery company (delivery company ID), and the date and day of the week when the product was ordered. In addition, whether or not a special offer provided by a store or platform provider when ordering a product was used by a specific user may also be used as feature data. In addition, the calendar (whether or not it is a public holiday, the day of the week on which the public holiday is, whether or not there is a consecutive holiday and the number of holidays during the consecutive holidays, etc.), whether or not there is a large-scale event (Olympics, World Cup, etc.), the period of a campaign planned by the store, and the weather may also be used as feature data. Feature data is also collected for each security space 100.

[0093] The algorithm used in the supervised learning model can be selected arbitrarily, and for example, a machine learning algorithm can be used. Examples of machine learning algorithms include a linear regression model, a random forest, a decision tree, gradient boosting, and deep learning, and deep learning is particularly preferable. When deep learning is used, an algorithm such as a neural network, a deep neural network, or a convolutional neural network can be used as appropriate. By using a machine learning algorithm to predict demand for each security space 100, it is possible to predict the total number of packages delivered to the security space 100 in a certain period of time. The difference between the predicted total number of packages and the training data, which is the past usage record, is the objective function, and the learning model can be trained and updated by minimizing this objective function.

[0094] If the demand forecast shows that the total number of packages will not exceed the capacity of the security space 100, the packages can be delivered according to the procedure described in the first embodiment. However, if a busy period is expected to arrive in which the total number of packages based on the demand forecast will exceed the capacity of the security space 100, there is a risk that the total number of packages will actually exceed the capacity of the security space 100, although this depends on the accuracy of the demand forecast, unless the delivery of packages is adjusted.

[0095] Therefore, in the delivery method according to the present embodiment, when a busy period is predicted, a notification to adjust the delivery date and time may be sent from the management server 120 to the delivery management server 150. This notification includes at least the predicted busy period. This allows the delivery management company to adjust the delivery so that the parcel is delivered during a time that avoids the busy period, thereby avoiding unintended delivery delays and redelivery.

[0096] Alternatively, the management server 120 may perform a promotion for delivery adjustment for some of the recipients to whom packages are delivered during the busy period. Specifically, some of the recipients are selected, and the selected recipients are requested to adjust the delivery date and time and / or delivery destination. The adjustment request may be made by sending an appropriate message from the management server 120 to the communication terminal 170. An incentive as described in the first embodiment may be provided to recipients who accept the adjustment request. It is preferable to make the adjustment request to cooperative recipients. Therefore, it is preferable to select recipients to whom the adjustment request is made based on, for example, the stay time of packages received in the security space 100 and the usage history of this delivery method. This is because a specific user who has a short stay time or a specific user who has a large usage history of this delivery method is likely to use this delivery method for a long period of time and is likely to be cooperative.

[0097] <Third embodiment> In this embodiment, a delivery method and a delivery system different from the delivery method and the delivery system 110 described in the first and second embodiments will be described. Descriptions of configurations that are the same as or similar to those described in the first and second embodiments may be omitted.

[0098] In the delivery system 110 described in the first and second embodiments, the management server 120 and the delivery management server 150 are connected by a network 112, and parcel information is exchanged (see Figs. 3 and 5). On the other hand, in the delivery system according to this embodiment, the management server 120 and the delivery management server 150 are both connected to the network 112, but they are independent of each other, and parcel information is not exchanged between them. Therefore, the management device 130 does not receive parcel information from the management server 120 or the delivery management server 150, and parcels are dropped off and picked up in a flow different from that of the first and second embodiments.

[0099] As in the first embodiment, the following describes an example in which a specific user orders a product from a store, and a delivery company places a package containing the product in the security space 100. A flowchart of the package delivery method according to this embodiment is shown in Fig. 9. Steps that are assigned the same step numbers as those described in the first embodiment (capital letter S followed by three digits) correspond to the steps described in the first embodiment, and therefore detailed descriptions thereof may be omitted.

[0100] A specific user places an order for a product (S100), and after a shipping request is sent to the delivery management server 150 (S102), the product is delivered by a delivery company (S106). The delivery location at this time is the security space 100 designated by the specific user who is the recipient. Furthermore, package information associated with the package is managed by the delivery management server 150.

[0101] In the security space 100, the deliverer reads at least a part of the parcel information into the management device 130 using the reader 146 or the imaging unit 134 (S130). The parcel information read into the management device 130 includes at least one or more of the following information for identifying the recipient: the recipient's name, contact information such as a telephone number or email address, and an identifier for identifying the recipient. The parcel information to be read may include the size, shape, and weight of the parcel. This parcel information may be included in the packaging or a tag attached to the parcel or packaging, or may be included in a waybill attached to the parcel or packaging. In the former case, the information is read into the management device 130 by reading the two-dimensional code or barcode of the tag with the reader 146. In the latter case, the waybill is read by the reader 146 or the imaging unit 134, and the control unit 132 recognizes the text part of the data read and converts it into character information to extract information for identifying the recipient.

[0102] Thereafter, the delivery person places the package (S110). The location where the package is placed may be arbitrarily determined by the delivery person, but if the package information read by the management device 130 includes the size, shape, or weight of the package, the delivery person may select and present the placement location using the image acquired by the imaging unit 134 as described in the first embodiment.

[0103] The flow thereafter is similar to that of the first embodiment, and therefore a detailed description will be omitted. After reading at least a portion of the package information, the management device 130 may transmit a signal to the management server 120 to notify the fact. Upon receiving this signal, the management server 120 may further transmit this signal or information contained in this signal to the communication terminal 170. This allows the recipient to quickly know that the package has been delivered.

[0104] As described above, in this embodiment, the management server 120 can manage the placement and delivery of packages in the secure space 100 designated by the recipient, without receiving various information from the delivery management server 150. This reduces the burden on the delivery company and the load on the management server 120, and allows for more secure placement and delivery at a lower cost.

[0105] The above-mentioned embodiments of the present invention may be combined as appropriate as long as they are not mutually inconsistent. In addition, the scope of the present invention also includes a display device in which the operator appropriately adds or removes components or modifies the design, or adds or omits a process or modifies conditions, based on the display device of each embodiment, as long as the gist of the present invention is maintained.

[0106] Even if there are other effects and advantages different from those brought about by the aspects of each of the above-mentioned embodiments, those which are clear from the description in this specification or which can be easily predicted by a person skilled in the art are naturally understood to be brought about by the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0107] 100: security space, 102: door, 104: storage facility, 104: marker, 108: door, 110: delivery system, 112: network, 120: management server, 130: management device, 132: control unit, 134: imaging unit, 136: memory unit, 138: transmission / reception unit, 140: input unit, 142: display unit, 144: audio output unit, 146: reader, 148: light source, 150: delivery management server, 160: store server, 170: communication terminal, 180: delivery assistant terminal, 200: container, 202-1: container, 202-2: container, 202-3: container, 202-4: container, 202: main body, 204: lid, 206: lock, 208: handle, 210: authentication code, 212: groove, 214: protrusion

Claims

1. It is a method of placing and delivering luggage. A management device is arranged in a secure space where security against intrusion by unspecified persons and safety of the package are ensured, and package information attached to the package to be delivered is transmitted from the management server to the management device connected for communication with the management server; placing luggage in said secure space; acquiring an image of the inside of the security space by the management device and transmitting the image to the management server; Recognizing the placed luggage by the management device based on the image and the luggage information; and transmitting the image from the management server to a communication terminal designated by a recipient of the package.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the package is placed in the secure space at a location that is accessible without restriction to all persons granted access to the secure space.

3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising selecting, by the management device, a location for placing the package based on the package information.

4. periodically acquiring the image by the management device; and When the management device determines based on the image that the placed baggage has moved within the security space, acquiring an updated image in the security space by the management device and transmitting the updated image to the management server; and The method of claim 1 , further comprising transmitting the updated image from the management server to the communication terminal.

5. inputting an authentication code for authenticating the recipient of the package into the management device, or having the management device read the authentication code via the communication terminal; and The method of claim 1 , further comprising providing a location where the package was placed by the management device after authenticating the recipient by the authentication code.

6. It is a system for delivering luggage. Management Server, and A management device is provided in a secure space where security against intrusion by unspecified persons and safety of the luggage are ensured, and the management device is communicatively connected to the management server; The management device includes: receiving package information attached to the package from the management server; Acquire an image of the inside of the security space and transmit it to the management server; The system is configured to recognize the baggage placed in the security space based on the image and the baggage information, The management server includes: A system configured to transmit the image to a communication terminal designated by a recipient of the package.

7. 7. The system of claim 6, wherein the secure space includes a location where the baggage can be placed and is accessible without restriction to all persons granted access to the secure space.

8. The system of claim 6 , wherein the management device is further configured to select a location for placing the package based on the package information.

9. The management device includes: acquiring said images periodically; determining whether the placed baggage has moved within the security space based on the image; if it is determined that the package has moved within the security space, the system is further configured to obtain an updated image of the security space and transmit the updated image to the management server; The system of claim 6 , wherein the management server is further configured to transmit the updated image to the communication terminal.

10. The management device includes: authenticating the recipient of the package with an authentication code for authenticating the recipient; The system of claim 6 , further configured to provide a location where the package was placed after the authentication.

11. A management device that is arranged in a secure space where security against intrusion by unspecified persons and safety of luggage are ensured and where the luggage is placed and disposed, an imaging unit configured to acquire an image of the security space; a transceiver configured to receive package information attached to the package; and A management device comprising a control unit configured to recognize the placed luggage based on the image and the luggage information.

12. The management device according to claim 11 , wherein the security space includes a location where the luggage can be placed and which is accessible without restriction to all persons permitted to access the security space.

13. The management device according to claim 11 , wherein the control unit is further configured to select a location for placing the package based on the package information.

14. The imaging unit is further configured to periodically acquire the image; The control unit is further configured to determine whether the luggage has moved within the security space based on the image, The imaging unit is further configured to obtain an updated image of the inside of the security space when it is determined that the luggage has moved, The management device according to claim 11 , wherein the control unit is further configured to generate an instruction to transmit the updated image when it is determined that the package has moved.

15. The control unit is authenticating a recipient of the package by an authentication code for authenticating the recipient of the package; The device of claim 11, further comprising generating a signal after said authentication to indicate where said package is located.

Images