Methods and systems for leaving packages at a designated location.

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; acquiring 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] There are cases where the recipient is not at home when a package is delivered to them. In such cases, a delivery method called "delivery to a designated location" is sometimes adopted as a way to avoid the need for redelivery of the package. This method does not involve placing the package in a lockable locker or the like, but rather involves the recipient specifying a location that is freely accessible to third parties, including the package deliverer (for example, a front door, a garage, an unlocked storage room, 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 delivery person of having to redeliver the package (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-133219 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 management device for implementing this method. Alternatively, an object of one embodiment of the present invention is to provide a method for achieving secure delivery at low cost, and a system and 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 packages. The method includes transmitting package information attached to a package to be delivered from a management server to a management device that is placed in a secure space that ensures security against intrusion by unspecified persons and the safety of the package and is communicatively connected to the management server, placing the package in the secure space, acquiring an image of the inside of the secure space with the management device and transmitting the image to the management server, recognizing the placed package with the management device based on 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.

[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 that ensures security against intrusion by unspecified persons and the safety of packages, 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, acquire 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 the recipient of the package.

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

[0008] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 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. 1 is a schematic side view of a security space used in a delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 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. [Figure 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. [Figure 5] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6A] 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] 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] 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] 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] 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] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, various embodiments 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 spirit 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 schematically 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 explained in the previous drawings may be assigned the same reference numerals, and duplicate explanations may be omitted.

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

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

[0013] The secure space is equipped with a security mechanism to ensure a certain level of security. Security mechanisms include a locking mechanism and a monitoring mechanism. By installing a security mechanism, a space that was not previously intended to be used as a facility for delivering packages can be constructed as a space for 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 so that the locking mechanism is locked and unlocked using biometric information such as the specific user's face, fingerprint, or palm print.

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

[0016] For this reason, when a locking mechanism is used as a security mechanism, the secure space 100 is installed in a facility with restricted users. For example, the secure space 100 is installed on the premises or buildings of apartment complexes such as condominiums, companies, educational facilities, medical institutions, and nursing homes, or on the premises or buildings of various facilities with restricted users, such as sports facilities, commercial facilities, and entertainment facilities. In this case, the designated user is a person who belongs to a group related to the various facilities in which the secure space 100 is installed and whose identity has been verified. For example, if the secure space 100 is installed in an apartment complex, the designated user is a resident of the apartment complex. If the secure space 100 is installed on the premises or buildings of a company, educational facility, medical institution, or nursing home, the designated user is an employee or servant of the facility. If the secure space 100 is installed on the premises or buildings of various facilities such as sports facilities, commercial facilities, and entertainment facilities, the designated user is an employee or servant of the facility, as well as a user who has been authorized 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 Figures 1A and 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, as will be described in detail 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 a monitoring mechanism is used as a security mechanism, the secure space 100 can be installed in any location and is not limited to the above-mentioned locations. For example, the secure space 100 may be installed in train stations, parking lots, roadsides, commercial facilities such as convenience stores and supermarkets, entertainment facilities such as pachinko parlors, and government offices such as city halls, where users are not identified. In this case, a specified user can use this delivery method by registering as a user in this delivery system. On the other hand, unspecified third parties who are not registered as users can access the secure space 100 and packages that have been left there. However, because the monitoring mechanism functions at all times, it can create a deterrent against unspecified third parties accessing packages.

[0019] Furthermore, packages placed in the security space 100 are placed in a location accessible to designated users without any restrictions. In other words, the security space 100 is configured so that once a designated user enters the security space 100, the designated user can access the packages placed in the security space 100 without any restrictions. Therefore, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, for example, packages are placed in a storage facility 104 such as a shelf, platform, or desk without partitions, walls, or doors. When using a storage facility 104 that does not have compartments, walls, or partitions for placing packages, such as a shelf, platform, or desk, markers 106 may be attached to define compartments or indicate coordinates, as shown in FIG. 1A. The markers 106 may be attached using, for example, ink, tape, or stickers, or may be formed as bumps or depressions formed by embossing. Although not shown, packages may be placed on the floor of the security space 100 or in boxes placed on the floor or on shelves. In this case, markers 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 installed in the security space 100 as the storage facility 104, with one or more packages being placed in each locker. In this case, the lockers are not locked. That is, each locker does not have or use a locking mechanism. When using lockers equipped with doors 108, a cooling device may be connected to the locker so that the locker functions 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 an environment is created in which 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, because the identities of specific users are known, an environment is created in which malicious intent, such as intentionally receiving packages belonging to other specific users, is less likely to occur. Furthermore, because there is no need for large-scale storage facilities such as lockable lockers for storing each package or delivery boxes with communication functions, the security space 100 and the storage facilities 104 installed therein can be constructed at low cost by appropriately using existing space and simple storage facilities 104.

[0022] In conventional delivery methods that use parcel boxes with lockable lockers, if all the lockers are in use, the parcel cannot be delivered, forcing a redelivery. However, with this delivery method, since storage facilities 104 without partitions can be used, parcel placement is not restricted by partitions, allowing parcels to be placed more efficiently, resulting in significantly improved storage efficiency. This significantly reduces the likelihood of redelivery, enabling a reduction in delivery costs and a saving on the 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. As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the management device 130 is disposed in each security space 100. 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 below, a light source can be provided in the management device 130, and light from the light source can be irradiated onto the placed luggage and the storage facility. Therefore, light irradiation can be performed effectively by suspending the management device 130 from the ceiling or hanging it on the wall.

[0024] 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 package delivery services, and to a communication terminal 170, such as a smartphone, tablet, portable watch or eyeglasses with communication capabilities, or head-mounted portable communication terminal, designated by a specific user who is the recipient of the package. 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 also be connected to the communication terminal 170 via short-range wireless communication via Wi-Fi or another local area network. The management server 120 and the delivery management server may be integrated, and these functions may be realized by a single server.

[0025] The delivery system 110 may further include a store server 160 provided in a store that provides products. 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 retailer such as a supermarket or department store, a liquor store, a dry cleaner, a restaurant, a coffee shop, a fast food restaurant, a bookstore, a stationery store, or a drugstore that sells cosmetics and medicines. The store may also conduct e-commerce on an e-commerce platform that the store has built itself, or an e-commerce platform provided by a business that provides the platform for free or for a fee (hereinafter referred to as a platform provider). Therefore, the store does not necessarily have to be a physical store. There are no restrictions on the products, and products from any industry can be included. The products may also be rental products (such as rental shoes, rental outfits, or rental bags) or free samples (such as free cosmetic samples or free food samples).

[0026] These configurations will be explained below, but explanations will be omitted as 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 Management server 120 is a device with computing and communication capabilities, and receives from delivery management server 150 a set of information (package information) associated with each package by the delivery company. The package information includes, for example, information about the recipient (such as the recipient's address, name, contact information such as telephone number or email address, age, gender, occupation, and an identifier for identifying the recipient), information about the package (such as the contents of the package, the package's weight, size, and shape, an identifier for identifying the package, desired delivery date and time, designated security space, the location of the package designated by the recipient within the security space, whether it can be loaded, and the like), information about the sender (such as the sender's address, name or title, contact information such as telephone number or email address, attributes, and the like), and information about the delivery company (such as an identifier for identifying the delivery company). An arbitrarily selected portion of the package information, such as an identifier for identifying the recipient or package, may be displayed as an identifier associated with the package (specifically, information including a package identifier, such as a two-dimensional code or barcode, on the package or on a tag attached to the package or package). The management server 120 is further configured to transmit all or part 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) of the secure space 100 from the management device 130.

[0028] In this delivery method, once a package has been left at the delivery location, a notification (a delivery notification) informing the delivery person that the delivery by delivery at the delivery location 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 at the delivery location. In the latter case, the management server 120 is configured to receive a notification (a delivery completion notification) from the delivery management server 150 to notify the delivery person that the 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 delivery of the package has been completed, as well as an image of the inside of the security space 100 (described later) and any updated images thereof. The delivery information may also include an authentication code (such as a password, or an authentication image such as a barcode or two-dimensional code) for authenticating the recipient. By having the recipient receive the image captured in the security space 100 on their communication terminal 170, the recipient can easily find and collect 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 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 security space 100 in accordance with commands from the control unit 132 so as to capture at least one of the packages to be placed or storage equipment 106, such as shelves or lockers, on which the packages are placed. The image acquisition interval can be appropriately selected from a range of, for example, 1 / 120 seconds to 1 second, thereby making it possible to acquire still images and moving images of the security space 100. The imaging unit 134 may also be configured to acquire biometric information of delivery persons or specific users who enter 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, etc. Alternatively, the input unit 140 may be configured with a touch sensor module mounted on the display unit 142, which will be described later. By providing the input unit 140, it is possible to accept input from the delivery person or the recipient.

[0035] The display unit 142 functions as an auxiliary device for inputting information into the management device 130 or as an information providing device for providing various information to the delivery person or recipient. For example, a liquid crystal display module or an organic electroluminescent 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 package information, the location of the package to be left, the location of the left package, as well as various warnings, in response to input via the input unit 140, in accordance with commands from the control unit 132.

[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 in accordance with 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 to read 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 the location of baggage to be placed. An example of a 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 freely 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 package information to the management device 130. Therefore, in accordance with instructions from the control unit 132, the management device 130 stores the package information received by the transceiver 138 in the memory unit 136. Furthermore, based on the package information, the management device 130 can select a location in the storage facility 104 for the package to be placed, taking into consideration the available space in the storage facility 104 and the size and weight of the package. For example, a location where the newly placed package can be placed is selected based on the size and weight of the package to be placed and the locations of packages already placed in the storage facility 104 acquired by the image capture unit 134. Alternatively, the location of the package may be selected based on the weight of the package. For example, the upper part of the storage facility may be selected as the location for light packages, and the lower part of the storage facility may be selected as the location for heavy packages. If the storage facility is a shelf, a relatively high shelf and a relatively low shelf may be selected for light packages and heavy packages, 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 for the newly placed package, taking into consideration the weight, size, and shape contained in the package information for the newly placed package, and the weight, contents, shape, and loading feasibility contained in the package information for 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 for 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 location of the package can be presented to the delivery person by the management device 130. The presentation of the location can be performed by displaying the location on the display unit 142. In this case, the display unit 142 can display the area divided by the markers 106 or the designated coordinates using text or a graphic (for example, a map of the security space 100). Alternatively, the location can be presented by illuminating the location using the light source 148. Furthermore, the 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 portion of the shelf, or if the storage facility 104 is a box with multiple lockers, light can be irradiated onto the corresponding locker. When a new package 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 in accordance with a command from the control unit 132 to indicate which package the package should be placed on.

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

[0044] In this way, by displaying the placement location of the package to be left, the delivery person can place the package in an orderly manner in the storage facility. In addition, since the images captured by the imaging unit 134 are 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 disorderly 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 as appropriate and then input the location where the package has been placed (category, coordinates, etc.) into the management device 130 via the input unit 140.

[0046] B. Recognition and verification of left-behind packages The management device 130 can be further configured to recognize packages 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 package. At this time, the control unit 132 may further send a command to the light source 148 to irradiate light onto the package and its surroundings. The light irradiation range may also be set using the package placement position 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 package can be acquired even if the security space 100 is dark. The acquired image is stored in the memory unit 136 in accordance with a command from the control unit 132, and is also transmitted to the management server 120 via the transmission / reception unit 138.

[0047] The management device 130 then compares the acquired image with the size and shape of the package included in the package information to recognize the package included in the image. For example, the imaging unit 134 acquires an image (blank image) of the storage facility 104 with no packages placed therein and stores it in the memory unit 136. When recognizing a package, the image captured by the imaging unit 134 is subtracted from the blank image, and the resulting difference is treated as the package image. By comparing the size and shape of this package image with the size and shape of the package placed therein, the package placed at the storage facility 104 can be recognized and identified. As a result, it is possible to verify whether each package has been correctly placed at the location specified by the recipient or the location selected by the management device 130. Note that, when recognizing a package, an identifier associated with the package included in the image captured by the imaging unit 134 may be used. This allows multiple packages of the same or similar size and shape to be distinguished and recognized. 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 notify the deliverer of this fact. Conversely, even if the package is placed correctly, the control unit 132 may output or display a voice message or the like to notify the deliverer of this fact.

[0048] By utilizing this recognition function, even if a delivery person decides on a location to place a package and leaves it there, it is possible to identify the package and its location. Therefore, even if the delivery person does not input the location, it is possible to know where the package has been left.

[0049] C. Security space monitoring 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 status of people entering and exiting the security space 100 to be constantly recorded, contributing to crime prevention measures. For example, the management device 130 may be configured to transmit the acquired images to the management server 120 in real time. Furthermore, in response to a request from the communication terminal 170, this image 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 a dropped package and determine whether the package has been moved based on the image acquired by the imaging unit 134 and the size and shape of the package included in the package information. This determination can also be made by comparing images acquired periodically. This allows the location of a dropped package to be accurately monitored even if it has been moved from its initial location. If the control unit 132 determines that the package has moved, it commands the imaging unit 134 and the transceiver unit 138 to acquire another image of the package (an updated image) and transmit it to the management server 120. At this time, the control unit 132 may control the light source 148 to irradiate the package with light. The location of the moved package is also stored in the memory unit 136. As described above, the delivery information transmitted by the management server 120 to the communication terminal 170 designated by the recipient includes an image of the package and an updated image. This allows the recipient to easily find the package even if it has moved within the security space 100 after being dropped off.

[0051] D. Indication of location at time of receipt As described above, the management device 130 can constantly monitor the secure space 100, and can be configured to display the location of a dropped package when the recipient receives the package. To this end, the control unit 132 controls the memory unit 136, the imaging unit 134, the reader 146, and the like to authenticate and identify the recipient. For example, the recipient inputs a preset authentication code or one 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 memory 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 memory unit 136 and verify the recipient's biometric information acquired by the imaging unit 134 to verify the recipient's biometric information.

[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 identifies the package that the recipient should receive based on the package information, and controls the display unit 142, audio output unit 144, light source 148, etc. to present the location where the package will be placed. Specifically, the control unit 132 may display the location on the display unit 142, output the location using the audio output unit 144, or irradiate the location using the light source 148. The recipient receives the package that has been placed at the indicated location. This completes the receiving process.

[0053] E. Baggage receipt processing As described above, the imaging unit 134 periodically captures images of the inside of the secure space 100. Therefore, the management device 130 may be configured to use the captured images to determine whether the recipient has correctly received the package. For example, by using images captured after recipient authentication is complete, it is possible to quickly determine whether the recipient has received the package they were supposed to receive, or whether the recipient has received a different package. If 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 using the audio output unit 144 and / or the display unit 142 to notify the recipient of this fact. Conversely, if it is determined that the recipient has received the wrong package, the management device 130 may be configured to output a warning sound, a warning message, and / or a warning image using the audio output unit 144 and / or the display unit 142 to notify the recipient of this fact.

[0054] After the recipient receives the package, the management device 130 can accept input of a receipt notification operation to notify the recipient that receipt of the package is complete. The recipient's receipt notification operation 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 they have received the package via the input unit 140. Alternatively, the management device 130 may prompt the recipient to perform an operation to read an identifier attached to the package using the reader 146. After the recipient completes the receipt notification operation, the management device 130 is configured to transmit a signal (a receipt signal) to the management server 120 to certify that receipt of the package is complete.

[0055] If the recipient does not perform a receipt notification operation, the management device 130 may confirm receipt by using the package recognition function described above. That is, the management device 130 may be configured to use an image acquired 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, if the package is not received in a timely manner, the management device 130 can be configured to prompt the recipient to receive the package. Specifically, packages are constantly recognized and tracked by monitoring the packages within 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 the management device 130 determines that the package remains within the security space 100 after a certain period of time (e.g., three days, one week, etc.) has passed since the package was left there, or if the management device 130 determines that the package remains within the security space 100 after the recipient's desired delivery date and time has passed, the management device 130 is configured to create and transmit a prompt notice to the management server 120. Upon receiving the prompt notice, the management server 120 transmits this notice to the communication terminal 170, thereby prompting the recipient to receive the package.

[0057] 3.Shipping method The details of this delivery method will be explained below. In the following detailed explanation, as an example, a case will be taken in which a specific user orders a product from a store, and a delivery company places a package containing 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 places an order for a product with 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 platform provider and requests the store to order and deliver the product on that platform. The recipient may also notify the store of the desired date and time of delivery of the product directly or via the platform. Once the store confirms and accepts the product order, the order is confirmed.

[0059] Furthermore, at this time, the recipient specifies that this delivery method is selected. The secure 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 the location of the package within the secure space 100, and may assign a priority to the 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 about the recipient and information about the package, among other package information.

[0061] Note that products may be delivered packaged or wrapped in appropriate materials, or may be delivered unpackaged or packaged. When products are packaged, all or some of the items may be packed in a container of 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 store one or more products, and the container 200 may be placed in the storage facility 104 of the secure 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, for example, it may be a hexahedron as a whole when the lid 204 is closed. The size of the container 200 is also arbitrary, but the length of the inner longitudinal dimension may be, for example, 150 mm to 600 mm, 200 mm to 500 mm, or 200 mm to 400 mm, and is typically the length corresponding to A4 size (297 mm). The internal 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 210 mm, which corresponds to the width of A4 size. The internal 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 ranges, by configuring container 200 to satisfy the above parameters, it is possible to deliver most products to be delivered using container 200.

[0062] By using containers 200 of the same shape and size to store and distribute the containers 200 filled with cargo, handling of the cargo becomes easier and the work efficiency of delivery personnel increases. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 6B, by stacking multiple containers 200, a large number of containers 200 can be arranged in an orderly manner in the storage facility 104. This contributes to efficient use of the security space 100. Note that a cargo shift prevention structure may be formed on the container 200 to prevent cargo from shifting when multiple containers 200 are loaded. There are no restrictions on the cargo shift prevention structure, but for example, as shown in FIG. 6A, one or more linear grooves 212 may be formed 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, multiple types of containers 200 with different sizes or shapes may be used to transport goods. 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 container 200-1 are the same or substantially the same as the length L3 and width W2 of the main body 202 of container 200-2, respectively, but the height H2 is greater than the height H1. The height H2 may also be twice the height H1.

[0064] Alternatively, multiple types of containers 200 may be configured so that the occupied area of ​​two containers 200 when lined up is the same or substantially the same as that of a single container 200. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8A , containers 200-3 and 200-4 having different bottom areas of their bodies 202 may be used. Here, the length L3 of container 200-3 having the larger bottom area is twice or substantially twice the width W4 of container 200-4 having the smaller bottom area, and the width W3 of container 200-3 and the length L4 of container 200-4 are the same or substantially the same. The heights H3 and H4 of the bodies 202 of containers 200-3 and 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 delivered, thereby allowing the security space 100 to be used efficiently.

[0066] The recipient of the parcel undergoes user registration prior to ordering the product or when specifying this delivery method. Specifically, the recipient sends the 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 required 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 sent to the recipient's communication terminal 170.

[0067] (2) Delivery of packages The delivery company that has been requested to deliver 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 monitored on the management server 120. The package is then delivered to the security space 100 by the delivery company. Note that package information may also be transmitted directly from the delivery assistance terminal 180 to the management device 130.

[0068] The package is delivered by a delivery person (S106). If 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 delivery person may obtain access permission from the administrator of the security space 100 each time a delivery is made. Alternatively, the delivery person may obtain access permission for a certain period of time in advance from the administrator of the security space 100. In this case, the delivery person may be issued a key, magnetic card, ID card, authentication code, or the like to unlock the security space 100 in advance. Furthermore, as described above, when the delivery person enters the security space 100, biometric information of the delivery person may be acquired using the imaging unit 134. This can encourage the delivery person to make accurate deliveries and can also serve as a deterrent against intrusion into the security space 100 by unspecified persons who have not obtained access permission.

[0069] (3) Selecting a location for luggage and placing the luggage Next, a location for placing the package is selected (S108). Specifically, first, the delivery person, within the secure space 100, has the management device 130 recognize the package to be delivered. For example, the delivery person uses the input unit 140 to input part of the package information (e.g., an identifier attached to the package). 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 the information included in the identifier is sent to the delivery management server 150. This information is sent from the delivery management server 150 to the management server 120, and as a result, the package to be placed by the management server 120 is identified. The management server 120 further sends all or part of the information about the package to the management device 130. This process allows the management device 130 to identify the package to be delivered and enables the management device 130 to select a location for the package.

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

[0071] If there is insufficient space within the security space 100 or the storage facility 160, the information stored in the memory unit 136 is searched for luggage that has already been placed and that can accommodate other luggage, and the shape, size, and weight of the already placed luggage are compared with the shape, size, and weight of the luggage to be newly placed. 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 to load the luggage can be set arbitrarily; for example, it may be determined that loading is possible if 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] The display unit 142, audio output unit 144, and / or light source 148 of the management device 130 then present the delivery person with the location. For example, the location may be displayed on the display unit 142, or a message informing the delivery person of the location may be output by the audio output unit 144. Alternatively, the light source 148 may be used to irradiate the location. This allows the delivery person to easily determine the location of the package and place it.

[0073] After the package is left at the delivery location, a delivery notice is sent to notify the delivery completion (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 illuminate the left package. If there are multiple packages to be left at the delivery location, the light may be illuminated on the left package in any order or in the order in which they were left. After receiving this input operation, the management device 130 sends a delivery notice to the management server 120. Alternatively, instead of inputting the information into the management device 130, the delivery notice may be sent to the delivery management server 150 via the delivery assistant terminal 180. Upon receiving this delivery notice, the delivery management server 150 sends a delivery completion notice to the management server 120. Alternatively, instead of inputting the information into the management device 130 or using the delivery assistant terminal 180, the delivery management server 150 may use a package recognition function of the management device 130. That is, the management device 130 recognizes the newly placed package using the image acquired by the imaging unit 134, and determines whether the shape and size of the package match those in the package information. If they match, a delivery notice is generated and sent to the management server 120 via the transmitting / receiving 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 notify the delivery person of this fact. 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 (such as a two-dimensional code, a barcode, a number, or other graphic) containing information about the container 200 (container information such as a serial number) and / or package information about the package housed in the container 200 may be attached to one or more surfaces (such as the side, top, or front) of the container 200. The authentication code 210 containing the package information can be read by the imaging unit 134 of the management device 130 and compared with package information transmitted from the management server 120, thereby enabling identification of the deposited package. If the authentication code 210 contains container information, the container information may be transmitted to the delivery management server 150, and package 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 person's placement and placement operation, 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 placed correctly in the selected placement location. If the package has been placed correctly, an alarm sound or an alarm message may be output or displayed via the audio output unit 144 or the display unit 142 to notify the delivery person of this. Conversely, if the package has been placed correctly, an audio message may be output or displayed to notify the delivery person of this.

[0076] Note that if the delivery person determines that the placement location selected by the management device 130 is inappropriate, or if the delivery person decides on their own discretion to decide on a placement location, the above-described placement location selection does not need to be performed. In this case, the management device 130 first acquires package information from the management server 120. Then, using the package recognition function, the management device 130 recognizes and identifies 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 acquire and store images of the entire security space 100 and the storage facility 104 using the imaging unit 134. Therefore, after a package is placed and placed, an image of the package is acquired by the management device 130 and this image is sent to the management server 120 (S112).

[0078] Upon receiving this 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 not only the fact that the package has been delivered, but also the location within the security space 100 where it has been delivered. At this time, the date and time when the delivery information is transmitted may be recorded in the management server 120. Furthermore, as described above, the delivery information may include an authentication code that the management device 130 uses to authenticate the recipient. The recipient can use this authentication code to receive the package, as described below.

[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 delivered package 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, it is possible to grasp the movement of the package and track the location of each package, even if the delivered package is moved while the delivery person is delivering the package, or when it is moved when another recipient picks it up.

[0080] If the management device 130 recognizes that the package has been moved, it acquires an image of the package again and transmits the resulting 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 left and to easily retrieve the package. Whether the package has been moved can 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 designed to stop monitoring the package when the package receiving operation begins, but this scheme is only focused on the delivery and receipt of a single package, and monitoring within the security space 100 is performed regularly.

[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 the password included in the authentication code via the input unit 140. Alternatively, the reader 146 may read the 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 uses the display unit 142, the audio output unit 144, and / or the light source 148 to present the location of the package (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 that the recipient has taken out can be identified by comparing successive images. Therefore, if the recipient has correctly received the package, the display unit 142 or the audio output unit 144 may be used to notify the recipient of this, and conversely, if the recipient has received the wrong package, the display unit 142 or the audio output unit 144 may be used to display or generate a warning display or warning sound.

[0084] When the recipient receives the package, the recipient performs the receipt notification operation described above (S124). This operation allows the management device 130 to know that the package has been received, and then the management device 130 transmits a receipt signal to the management server 120 (S126). Receiving the receipt signal allows the management server 120 to know that the package has been received by the intended 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 package to be received by the recipient may be tracked using images acquired by the imaging unit 134. Then, if the package can no longer be recognized in the secure 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 recipient's communication terminal 170 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 they have received the package.

[0085] The management server 120 may be configured to record the date and time when the receipt signal is received. By recording the date and time when the receipt signal is received and the date and time when the delivery information is sent, it is possible to determine the time the package has been in the secure space 100. Since the shorter the stay time, the more effectively the secure space 100 can be utilized, some kind of benefit (incentive) may be offered to the recipient depending on the stay time. Examples of incentives include a discount on delivery fees by the company operating the management server 120, preferential allocation of package placement locations, the provision of products (e.g., consumables such as water, various samples, tickets to events such as movies, etc.), and the provision of various other services. By offering an incentive to the recipient, the recipient is motivated to shorten the stay time of the package, thereby enabling more efficient and effective utilization of the secure space 100.

[0086] In the parcel delivery method according to the embodiment of the present invention, parcels are placed and delivered in a secure space 100 that ensures a certain level of security. This means that the deliverer is not forced to redeliver the parcel because the recipient is not at home. This contributes to a significant reduction in delivery costs and contributes to saving human resources in delivery operations. 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 security space 100, and this delivery method with ensured security can be realized by placing existing general-purpose storage devices such as shelves, simple lockers, and desks within the security space 100. This allows for delivery at 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, but 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 send 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 depending on 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 even redelivery may be necessary. For this reason, in this embodiment, the management server 120 predicts demand for the security space 100 based on past performance of delivered parcels, thereby leveling out the delivery burden.

[0091] As described in the first embodiment, package information for packages 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 packages scheduled for delivery 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 packages actually delivered for each security space 100 for a certain period of time (e.g., one day, half a day) going back to the past (e.g., 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] When building a supervised learning model, various parameters can be used as input data (feature data). Feature data includes a store identifier (store ID) that identifies the store from which the items contained in the package were ordered, an identifier (item ID) and category that identifies the item, the size and number of items in the package, the time the package spent in the secure space 100, an identifier that identifies the delivery company (delivery company ID), and the date, time, and day of the week when the item was ordered. Other feature data that can be used include whether a specific user used special offers offered by the store or platform provider when ordering the item. Furthermore, other feature data can include calendar information (whether or not there is a public holiday, the day of the week on which the holiday falls, whether or not there is a long weekend and the number of days off during the long weekend, etc.), whether or not there is a large-scale event (such as the Olympics or the World Cup), the period of a campaign planned by the store, and weather. Feature data is also collected for each secure 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 linear regression models, random forests, decision trees, gradient boosting, and deep learning, with deep learning being particularly preferred. When using deep learning, algorithms such as neural networks, deep neural networks, and convolutional neural networks 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 over a certain period of time. The difference between the predicted total number of packages and the training data, which is past usage history, is the objective function, and the learning model can be trained and updated by minimizing this objective function.

[0094] If the demand forecast indicates that the total number of packages will not exceed the capacity of the security space 100, then the packages can be delivered according to the procedure described in the first embodiment. However, if a busy period is expected in which the total number of packages based on the demand forecast will exceed the capacity of the security space 100, then 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 delivery adjustments are made.

[0095] Therefore, in the delivery method according to this 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 package is delivered during a time that avoids the busy period, thereby avoiding unintended delivery delays and redelivery.

[0096] Alternatively, the management server 120 may conduct a promotion for adjusting delivery to some of the recipients who will receive deliveries during busy periods. Specifically, some recipients are selected, and a request is made to adjust the delivery date and / or delivery destination for the selected recipients. The adjustment request may be made by sending an appropriate message from the management server 120 to the communication terminal 170. Recipients who accept the adjustment request may be provided with an incentive as described in the first embodiment. Note that adjustment requests are preferably made to cooperative recipients. Therefore, it is preferable to select recipients to whom adjustment requests are made based, for example, on the amount of time that previously received packages have stayed in the security space 100 and their usage history of this delivery method. This is because specific users who stay for a short time or who have a high usage history of this delivery method are more likely to use this delivery method for a long period of time and are more likely to be cooperative.

[0097] <Third embodiment> In this embodiment, a delivery method and a delivery system different from the delivery method and 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 via 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, although the management server 120 and the delivery management server 150 are both connected to the network 112, they are independent of each other, and no parcel information is 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 therefore 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 secure space 100. A flowchart of the package delivery method according to this embodiment is shown in Figure 9. Steps assigned the same step numbers (capital letter S followed by three digits) as those described in the first embodiment correspond to the steps described in the first embodiment, and therefore detailed explanations 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. In addition, package information associated with the package is managed by the delivery management server 150.

[0101] In the secure space 100, the delivery person uses the reader 146 or the imaging unit 134 to have the management device 130 read at least a portion of the package information (S130). The package information read by the management device 130 includes at least information for identifying the recipient, such as the recipient's name, contact information such as a telephone number or email address, and an identifier for identifying the recipient. The package information to be read may also include the size, shape, and weight of the package. This package information may be included on the packaging or a tag attached to the package or packaging, or on a waybill attached to the package or packaging. In the former case, the information is read into the management device 130 by reading the two-dimensional code or barcode on 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 portion of the read data and converts it into character information to extract information for identifying the recipient.

[0102] The delivery person then places the package (S110). The location where the package is placed may be determined arbitrarily 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 a placement location using an image acquired by the imaging unit 134, as described in the first embodiment.

[0103] The subsequent flow is the same as 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 the 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-described embodiments of the present invention may be combined as appropriate as long as they are not mutually inconsistent. Furthermore, even if the operator appropriately adds or deletes components or modifies the design of the display device of each embodiment, or adds or omits processes or modifies conditions, the resulting product is included in the scope of the present invention as long as it contains the gist of the present invention.

[0106] Even if there are other effects and advantages different from those brought about by the aspects of each of the above-mentioned embodiments, if they are clear from the description in this specification or can be easily predicted by a person skilled in the art, they will naturally be 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 auxiliary 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: convex portion

Claims

1. A method for placing and distributing luggage in a space equipped with a management device, The management device acquires multiple images of the space. The management device obtains luggage information, including at least one of the size, shape, weight, and whether or not the luggage can be loaded, from a server that is communicated with the management device. The management device recognizes the arrangement of previously delivered packages already placed in the space based on the plurality of images. The management device selects the placement location of the package in the space based on the package information and the placement status of previously delivered packages, and A method comprising the management device presenting the selected placement location.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the management device selecting the space above the cargo that has cargo information indicating it can be loaded from among the previously delivered cargo as the placement location when there is insufficient available space in the space.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein if the package includes multiple packages belonging to the same recipient, the management device selects the placement locations such that the multiple packages belonging to the same recipient are placed close to each other.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the management device provides the selected placement location using a display unit, an audio output unit, or a light source provided in the management device.

5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the management device determining whether or not the package has been placed in the selected placement location based on the plurality of images.

6. The method according to claim 5, further comprising the management device outputting or displaying a warning sound or a warning message if the management device determines that the package is not placed in the selected placement location.

7. The management device transmits the plurality of images to the server, The method according to claim 1, further comprising the server transmitting at least one of the plurality of images to the communication terminal of the recipient of the package.

8. The space is provided with a storage facility marked with a marker, The method according to claim 1, wherein the selection of the placement location by the management device is indicated by displaying the section of the accommodation facility demarcated by the marker or the coordinates specified by the marker on the display unit of the management device.

9. The management device obtains an authentication code for authenticating the recipient of the package from the server and authenticates the recipient based on the authentication code. The management device indicates the location of the package that the recipient is to receive, and The method according to claim 1, further comprising the management device determining, based on the plurality of images, whether or not the package that the recipient is to receive has been received by the recipient.

10. The method according to claim 9, further comprising the management device transmitting a receipt signal to the server when the management device determines that a package to be received by the recipient has been received by the recipient.

11. The method according to claim 9, further comprising the management device displaying or emitting a warning display or warning sound if the management device determines that the package to be received by the recipient is different from the package taken out by the recipient.

12. The management device determines, based on the plurality of images, whether or not the package to be received by the recipient has moved within the space. If the management device determines that the package to be received by the recipient has moved, the management device transmits the image after it made the determination to the previous server, and The method according to claim 9, further comprising the server transmitting the image received from the management device to the recipient's communication terminal.

13. The method according to claim 9, further comprising the management device receiving input for an acknowledgment operation to notify that the recipient has received a package that the recipient is to receive.

14. The method according to claim 9, wherein the authentication of the recipient is performed using a password, a barcode, a two-dimensional code, or the recipient's biometric information.

15. A control device, and This system includes a server that is connected to the aforementioned management device, and is designed to enable package delivery. The aforementioned control device is Multiple images of the space where the aforementioned management device is installed are acquired, The server retrieves luggage information including at least one of the size, shape, weight, and whether or not the luggage can be loaded. Based on the aforementioned multiple images, the arrangement of previously delivered packages already placed in the space is recognized. Based on the aforementioned package information and the arrangement status of previously delivered packages, the location for placing the packages in the space is selected. A system configured to present the selected placement location.

16. The system according to claim 15, wherein the management device is further configured to select the space above a package that has package information indicating it can be loaded from among the previously delivered packages when there is insufficient available space in the space.

17. The system according to claim 15, wherein the management device is further configured to select the placement locations such that, when the package includes multiple packages belonging to the same recipient, the multiple packages belonging to the same recipient are placed close to each other.

18. The system according to claim 15, wherein the management device is further configured to display the selected placement location using a display unit, an audio output unit, or a light source provided in the management device.

19. The system according to claim 15, wherein the management device is further configured to determine whether or not the luggage has been placed in the selected placement location based on the plurality of images.

20. The system according to claim 19, wherein the management device is further configured to output or display a warning sound or a warning message if it determines that the package is not placed in the selected location.

21. The management device is further configured to transmit the plurality of images to the server, The system according to claim 15, wherein the server is configured to transmit at least one of the plurality of images to the communication terminal of the recipient of the package.

22. The space is provided with a storage facility marked with a marker, The system according to claim 15, wherein the management device displays the area of ​​the accommodation facility separated by the marker or the coordinates specified by the marker on the display unit of the management device to indicate the location of the facility.

23. The control device is The system obtains an authentication code from the server to authenticate the recipient of the package, and authenticates the recipient based on the authentication code. The location where the package to be received by the recipient is to be placed is indicated. The system according to claim 15, further configured to determine, based on the plurality of images, whether or not the package that the recipient is to receive has been received by the recipient.

24. The system according to claim 23, wherein the management device is further configured to send a receipt signal to the server when it determines that a package to be received by the recipient has been received by the recipient.

25. The system according to claim 23, wherein the management device is further configured to display or emit a warning display or a warning sound when it determines that the package to be received by the recipient is different from the package taken out by the recipient.

26. The control device is Based on the aforementioned multiple images, it is determined whether the package to be received by the recipient has moved within the space. If the recipient determines that the package to be received has moved, the system is further configured to send the image after the determination has been made to the previous server. The system according to claim 23, wherein the server is further configured to transmit the image received from the management device to the recipient's communication terminal.

27. ​​The system according to claim 23, wherein the management device is further configured to receive input of a receipt notification operation for notifying that the recipient has received a package that the recipient is to receive.

28. The system according to claim 23, wherein the authentication of the recipient is performed using a password, a barcode, a two-dimensional code, or the recipient's biometric information.

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