Delivery system and delivery method

Abstract

To enable a consignee to preliminarily confirm information of the actual luggage (image, size, etc.) about the luggage of scheduled content in a delivery service so that the luggage is surely delivered from a consigner to the consignee.SOLUTION: In a delivery system 1, a terminal 3 for shipping acquires a pre-packaging luggage image and a post-packaging luggage image imaged before and after packaging, and transmits the pre-packaging luggage image and the post-packaging luggage image toward a terminal 5 for reception via a network 6. The terminal 5 for reception acquires a prescribed-unpacking luggage image generated by imaging the luggage before unpacking, executes pre-unpacking verification process for verifying the pre-unpacking luggage image against the post-packaging luggage image, acquires a post-unpacking luggage image generated by imaging the luggage after unpacking, executes post-unpacking verification process for verifying the post-unpacking luggage image against the pre-packaging luggage image, and determines that delivery of the luggage is completely normally when the pre-unpacking verification process and the post-unpacking verification process are both successful.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a delivery system and method for delivering packaged packages from a shipper to a consignee. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, delivery services in which a delivery company delivers a package from a sender to a designated delivery destination have become widespread. With regard to such delivery services, techniques have been developed to enable a recipient of the package to safely receive the package at the delivery destination.

[0003] For example, a delivery system is known that includes a transmitter that transmits identification information set according to the package over a specified range, a receiver that is held by the consignee and receives the identification information, a notification unit that notifies the consignee of the identification information from either the sender or the delivery company before the package is delivered to the consignee, a determination unit that determines whether the identification information received by the receiver matches the identification information notified by the notification unit, and an indication unit that indicates the determination result to the consignee (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2016-078948 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In the delivery services described above, it is necessary that the consignor reliably dispatches the package with the planned contents, while the consignee reliably receives the package. In particular, in electronic commerce such as online shopping and online markets, it is extremely important that the consignor reliably delivers the package with the planned contents (e.g., the ordered product) to the consignee. Another issue in electronic commerce is that the consignee (purchaser) cannot check the actual product of the purchased product.

[0006] The conventional delivery system disclosed in the above Patent Document 1 aims to prevent damage caused by burglary or fraud by thieves disguised as delivery companies. However, in this conventional delivery system, no special consideration is given to the reliable delivery of packages with the planned contents from the shipper to the consignee.

[0007] Therefore, the main objective of the present disclosure is to provide a delivery system and method that enables a reliable delivery from a shipper to a consignee by allowing the consignee to check in advance actual package information (image, size, etc.) for the planned contents of the package. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The delivery system disclosed herein is a delivery system for delivering packaged luggage, comprising a shipping terminal that executes processes related to the dispatch of the luggage, and a receiving terminal that executes processes related to the receipt of the luggage, wherein the shipping terminal acquires pre-packing luggage images generated by photographing the luggage before it is packed, acquires post-packing luggage images generated by photographing the luggage after it is packed, and transmits the pre-packing luggage images and the post-packing luggage images to the receiving terminal via a network, and the receiving terminal receives the pre-packing luggage images and the post-packing luggage images, acquires pre-unpacking luggage images generated by photographing the luggage before it is unpacked, executes a pre-unpacking comparison process to compare the pre-unpacking luggage image with the post-packing luggage image, acquires post-unpacking luggage images generated by photographing the luggage after it is unpacked, and executes a post-unpacking comparison process to compare the post-unpacking luggage image with the pre-packing luggage image, and is configured to determine that delivery of the luggage has been completed successfully if both the pre-unpacking comparison process and the post-unpacking comparison process are successful.

[0009] The delivery method disclosed herein is a delivery method by a delivery system for delivering packaged luggage, the delivery system including a delivery terminal that executes processes related to the dispatch of the luggage, and a receiving terminal that executes processes related to the receipt of the luggage, the delivery terminal acquires pre-packing luggage images generated by photographing the luggage before it is packed, acquires post-packing luggage images generated by photographing the luggage after it is packed, and transmits the pre-packing luggage images and the post-packing luggage images to the receiving terminal via a network, the receiving terminal receives the pre-packing luggage images and the post-packing luggage images, acquires pre-unpacking luggage images generated by photographing the luggage before it is unpacked, executes a pre-unpacking comparison process to compare the pre-unpacking luggage image with the post-packing luggage image, acquires post-unpacking luggage images generated by photographing the luggage after it is unpacked, and executes a post-unpacking comparison process to compare the post-unpacking luggage image with the pre-packing luggage image, and if both the pre-unpacking comparison process and the post-unpacking comparison process are successful, it is determined that the delivery of the luggage has been completed successfully. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present disclosure, in a delivery service, by allowing a consignee to check actual package information (image, size, etc.) in advance for a package with planned contents, it becomes possible to ensure reliable delivery from the shipper to the consignee. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] Overall configuration diagram of a delivery system according to an embodiment [Diagram 2] Functional block diagram of the delivery management server shown in Figure 1 [Diagram 3] Functional block diagram of the shipper terminal shown in Figure 1 [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a luggage photographing screen for photographing luggage before packaging; [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a luggage photographing screen for photographing luggage after packaging; [Figure 6] An explanatory diagram showing how to obtain package dimension data [Figure 7] Functional block diagram of the delivery company terminal shown in Figure 1 [Figure 8] Functional block diagram of the consignee terminal shown in Figure 1 [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a navigation screen regarding an unpacking method. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a navigation screen for a method of photographing a package after it has been unpacked; [Figure 11] A sequence diagram showing the flow of parcel delivery processing in a delivery system. [Figure 12] Flow diagram showing the flow of shipping processing by the shipper terminal [Figure 13] Flow diagram showing the flow of package management processing by the delivery company terminal [Figure 14] Flow diagram showing the flow of receiving processing by the recipient terminal [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing a first modification of the receiving process by the consignee terminal shown in FIG. 14. [Figure 16] FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing a second modification of the receiving process by the consignee terminal shown in FIG. 14. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] A first invention made to solve the above problem is a delivery system for delivering packaged luggage, comprising a shipping terminal that performs processing related to the shipping of the luggage, and a receiving terminal that performs processing related to the receipt of the luggage, wherein the shipping terminal acquires a pre-packing luggage image generated by photographing the luggage before it is packed, acquires a post-packing luggage image generated by photographing the luggage after it is packed, and transmits the pre-packing luggage image and the post-packing luggage image to the receiving terminal via a network, and the receiving terminal receives the pre-packing luggage image and the post-packing luggage image, acquires a pre-unpacking luggage image generated by photographing the luggage before it is unpacked, performs a pre-unpacking comparison process to compare the pre-unpacking luggage image with the post-packing luggage image, acquires a post-unpacking luggage image generated by photographing the luggage after it is unpacked, and performs a post-unpacking comparison process to compare the post-unpacking luggage image with the pre-packing luggage image, and is configured to determine that delivery of the luggage has been completed successfully if both the pre-unpacking comparison process and the post-unpacking comparison process are successful.

[0013] According to this, if both the pre-unpacking and post-unpacking comparison processes are successful, the receiving terminal determines that delivery of the package has been completed successfully. Therefore, in a delivery service, by allowing the recipient to check actual package information (images, size, etc.) in advance for packages with the planned contents, it becomes possible to ensure reliable delivery from the shipper to the recipient.

[0014] A second invention relates to the above-mentioned first invention, and is configured such that the shipping terminal acquires post-packing dimensional data regarding the external dimensions of the package after it has been packed, and transmits the post-packing dimensional data to the receiving terminal via a network, and the receiving terminal acquires pre-unpacking dimensional data regarding the external dimensions of the package before it has been unpacked, and executes a dimension matching process to match the pre-unpacking dimensional data with the post-packing dimensional data, and executes the post-unpacking matching process only if the dimension matching process is successful.

[0015] According to this, the receiving terminal executes the post-unpacking verification process only if the dimension verification process is successful, so that unnecessary execution of the post-unpacking verification process can be avoided.

[0016] A third invention relates to the second invention, and is configured such that if any of the pre-unpacking comparison process, the post-unpacking comparison process, or the dimension comparison process fails, the receiving terminal transmits an abnormality notification indicating that an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of the package to the shipping terminal via a network.

[0017] This allows the user of the shipping terminal (for example, the shipper) to quickly grasp that an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of a package.

[0018] A fourth aspect of the present invention relates to the third aspect of the present invention, and is configured such that the abnormality occurrence notification includes information indicating a reason why the abnormality occurred.

[0019] This allows the user of the shipping terminal to quickly understand the reason why an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of a package.

[0020] A fifth invention relates to the first invention, and is configured such that, when the pre-unpacking verification process and the post-unpacking verification process are all successful and an approval operation for receiving the package is performed by the user of the receiving terminal, the receiving terminal sends a receipt confirmation notification indicating that delivery of the package has been completed successfully to the shipping terminal via a network.

[0021] According to this, in addition to the success of the matching process, a receipt confirmation notification is sent when an approval operation regarding receipt of the package is performed by the user of the receiving terminal, thereby avoiding an uncertain receipt confirmation notification being sent to the shipping terminal.

[0022] A sixth invention relates to the second invention, and is configured such that the shipping terminal transmits unpacking guide information for guiding the unpacking of the package to the receiving terminal via a network, and the receiving terminal presents information indicating how to unpack the package to a user based on the unpacking guide information before acquiring an image of the package after unpacking.

[0023] This allows the user of the receiving terminal (eg, the consignee) to easily unpack the package.

[0024] A seventh invention relates to the sixth invention, wherein the unpacking guide information is generated based on the unpacked package image, the packed package image, and the packed dimension data.

[0025] This makes it possible to easily generate unpacking guide information based on appropriate images and data.

[0026] Furthermore, an eighth invention relates to the sixth or seventh invention, and is configured such that after acquiring the pre-unpacking luggage image, the receiving terminal displays on a display a screen showing how to photograph the opened luggage based on the unpacking guide information.

[0027] This allows the user of the receiving terminal to properly take photographs of the opened package, thereby improving the accuracy of the post-unpacking verification process.

[0028] Further, a ninth invention relates to the second invention, and is configured such that, when the shipping terminal successfully acquires the post-packing dimension data, it stores the post-packing dimension data in association with the pre-packing luggage image and the post-packing luggage image.

[0029] This makes it easier to handle data required for the pre-unpacking verification process, post-unpacking verification process, and size verification process executed at the receiving terminal.

[0030] A tenth invention relates to any one of the first to ninth inventions, wherein the shipping terminal includes at least one of a shipper terminal used by a shipper who ships the package and a deliverer terminal used by a deliverer who delivers the package, and the receiving terminal includes a consignee terminal used by a consignee who receives the package.

[0031] This allows the shipping process by the shipping terminal and the receiving process by the receiving terminal to be executed appropriately.

[0032] In addition, an eleventh invention is a delivery system for delivering packaged packages, comprising a shipping terminal which executes processes related to the dispatch of the package, a receiving terminal which executes processes related to the receipt of the package, and a delivery terminal which executes processes related to delivery procedures for the package, wherein the shipping terminal acquires pre-packing package images generated by photographing the package before it is packed, acquires post-packing package images generated by photographing the package after it is packed, and transmits the pre-packing package images and the post-packing package images to the delivery terminal via a network, and the delivery terminal acquires in-delivery package images generated by photographing the package during delivery, executes an in-delivery comparison process to compare the in-delivery package images with the post-packing package images, acquires in-delivery dimensional data related to external dimensions of the package during delivery, and executes an in-delivery dimensional comparison process to compare the in-delivery dimensional data with the post-packing dimensional data, and if both the in-delivery comparison process and the in-delivery dimensional comparison process are successful, transmits an in-delivery notification indicating that the delivery of the package is proceeding normally to the receiving terminal via the network.

[0033] This allows the user of the receiving terminal to quickly understand that the delivery of the package is proceeding normally through the in-delivery notification from the delivery terminal, making it possible to reliably deliver the package with the planned contents from the sender (e.g., the shipper) to the recipient.

[0034] A twelfth invention relates to the eleventh invention, and is configured such that the shipper terminal acquires shipping time information and shipping location information of the parcel, the delivery terminal acquires current location information and current time information of the parcel, calculates a delivery time based on the shipping time information and the current time information, calculates a delivery distance based on the shipping location information and the current location information, and determines whether the delivery of the parcel is being carried out normally based on the delivery time and delivery distance.

[0035] This allows, for example, a user of the delivery terminal (for example, a deliverer) to easily know that delivery is proceeding normally.

[0036] A thirteenth invention relates to the twelfth invention, and is configured such that the delivery terminal transmits the determination result as to whether or not the delivery of the package is being carried out normally to the shipper terminal via a network.

[0037] This allows the shipper to easily know whether delivery is proceeding normally.

[0038] A 14th invention relates to any of the 11th to 13th inventions, and is configured to obtain at least one of the temperature of the luggage and the ambient temperature of the luggage as the luggage temperature, and to determine whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of the luggage by comparing the luggage temperature with a preset temperature tolerance range.

[0039] This allows, for example, a user of a delivery terminal (eg, a delivery person) to easily know whether or not a package is being delivered in an appropriate temperature environment.

[0040] A fifteenth invention relates to the fourteenth invention, and is configured such that the receiving terminal includes a consignee terminal which is a terminal used by a consignee to receive the package, and when the delivery terminal determines that an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of the package, it transmits an abnormality notification indicating that an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of the package to the consignee terminal via a network.

[0041] This allows the recipient to easily understand if there is an abnormality in the delivery of the package.

[0042] Further, a sixteenth invention is a delivery method by a delivery system for delivering packaged luggage, the delivery system comprising a delivery terminal which performs processing related to the dispatch of the luggage, and a receiving terminal which performs processing related to the receipt of the luggage, the delivery terminal acquires a pre-packing luggage image generated by photographing the luggage before it is packed, acquires a post-packing luggage image generated by photographing the luggage after it is packed, and transmits the pre-packing luggage image and the post-packing luggage image to the receiving terminal via a network, the receiving terminal receives the pre-packing luggage image and the post-packing luggage image, acquires a pre-unpacking luggage image generated by photographing the luggage before it is unpacked, performs a pre-unpacking matching process to compare the pre-unpacking luggage image with the post-packing luggage image, acquires a post-unpacking luggage image generated by photographing the luggage after it is unpacked, and performs a post-unpacking matching process to compare the post-unpacking luggage image with the pre-packing luggage image, and if both the pre-unpacking matching process and the post-unpacking matching process are successful, it is determined that the delivery of the luggage has been completed successfully.

[0043] According to this, if both the pre-unpacking and post-unpacking comparison processes are successful, the receiving terminal determines that delivery of the package has been completed successfully. Therefore, in a delivery service, by allowing the recipient to check actual package information (images, size, etc.) in advance for packages with the planned contents, it becomes possible to ensure reliable delivery from the shipper to the recipient.

[0044] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0045] 1 is an overall configuration diagram of a delivery system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The delivery system 1 is a system related to a delivery service for delivering a packaged package from a shipper to a consignee.

[0046] The delivery system 1 includes a delivery management server 2 operated by a business providing delivery services (hereinafter referred to as a "delivery company"). The delivery system 1 also includes a shipper terminal 3 (an example of a shipping terminal) used by a shipper, a deliverer terminal 4 (an example of a delivery terminal) used by a deliverer, and a consignee terminal 5 (an example of a receiving terminal) used by a consignee.

[0047] The shipper terminal 3, the deliverer terminal 4, and the consignee terminal 5 can each communicate with the delivery management server 2 via a known communication network 6 such as the Internet. These terminals 3-5 can each communicate with the delivery management server 2 (i.e., indirectly). However, the shipper terminal 3 and the consignee terminal 5 can also each communicate directly with the deliverer terminal 4 by using a known short-range wireless function or the like.

[0048] For ease of explanation, Fig. 1 shows one each of the shipper terminal 3, the deliverer terminal 4, and the consignee terminal 5. However, in practice, the delivery system 1 may include a plurality of each of the terminals 3-5. The delivery system 1 may also include a plurality of delivery management servers 2 that cooperate to execute processes related to the delivery service.

[0049] Fig. 2 is a functional block diagram of the delivery management server 2 shown in Fig. 1. The delivery management server 2 includes a computer for executing processes required to manage the delivery services provided by the delivery company.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 2, the delivery management server 2 includes a communication unit 11, a control unit 12, and a storage unit 13.

[0051] The communication unit 11 performs wireless or wired communication with other devices (here, the shipper terminal 3, the deliverer terminal 4, the consignee terminal 5, and the like) via the communication network 6 in accordance with a known communication protocol.

[0052] In the control unit 12, the usage reception unit 21 executes a process of receiving an application for use of the delivery service from a consignor and an application for delivery of a package via the consignor terminal 3. The usage reception unit 21 acquires information about the consignor (for example, the address and name of the consignor, and payment information, etc.) by receiving an application for use of the delivery service from the consignor. The information about the consignor is sequentially stored in the storage unit 13 as service user information 26.

[0053] Furthermore, the usage reception unit 21 obtains information about the package to be delivered (for example, the contents of the package (i.e., contents and type) and the address and name of the consignee) by receiving an application for package delivery from the consignor terminal 3. The information about the package is sequentially stored in the memory unit 13 as package information 27. The package information 27 may include at least a portion of the shipping procedure information 48 from the consignor terminal 3. An application to use the delivery service or an application for package delivery may be made by the consignee from the consignee terminal 5.

[0054] The delivery management unit 22 executes delivery management processing to ensure smooth dispatch of the package by the shipper, delivery of the package by the deliverer, and receipt of the package by the consignee. As part of the delivery management processing, the delivery management unit 22 can provide the deliverer with instructions regarding the delivery work and information necessary for the delivery work via the deliverer terminal 4. Instructions regarding the delivery work include, for example, instructions to collect the package. Information necessary for the delivery work includes, for example, the delivery destination address, contact information, and scheduled delivery time.

[0055] Furthermore, as part of the delivery management process, the delivery management unit 22 can notify the consignor or consignee (i.e., the consignor terminal 3 or the consignee terminal 5) of the delivery status of the package. The notification of the delivery status includes, for example, information on the delivery schedule of the package, information on the start of delivery of the package, or information indicating that the package is being delivered.

[0056] In addition to the above-mentioned service user information 26 and package information 27, the storage unit 13 can store information necessary for managing the delivery service, such as delivery work information 28. The delivery work information 28 includes information about the deliverer in charge of the delivery work, information about the deliverer terminal 4 used by the deliverer, and the like.

[0057] The computer constituting the delivery management server 2 may include known hardware such as a processor (CPU, MPU, etc.), memory, a display, an input device, a network interface, and storage.

[0058] The communication unit 11 may include a communication device equipped with an antenna, a communication circuit, and the like.

[0059] At least a part of the functions of each of the units 21-22 in the control unit 12 can be realized by at least one processor executing a predetermined control program. The control unit 12 can also control the overall operation of the delivery management server 2.

[0060] The memory unit 13 may include a storage device such as a storage for storing data and information required for processing by the delivery management server 2.

[0061] In addition, in the delivery system 1, at least a part of the functions of the delivery management server 2 described above may be realized by multiple computers working together.

[0062] Fig. 3 is a functional block diagram of the shipper terminal 3 shown in Fig. 1. Figs. 4 and 5 are explanatory diagrams showing examples of a package photographing screen for photographing packages before and after packaging, respectively. Fig. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a method for acquiring package dimensional data.

[0063] The shipper terminal 3 includes a computer for executing processes required for shipping packages. The shipper terminal 3 includes an information device having a communication function, such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a notebook PC, carried by the shipper.

[0064] The shipper terminal 3 may be a computer installed in a store operated by a delivery company and available to the shipper. If the shipper does not have a shipper terminal 3, a deliverer terminal 4 (an example of a shipping terminal) may be used instead of the shipper terminal 3. In that case, the operation of the deliverer terminal 4 functioning as the shipper terminal 3 may be performed by the deliverer.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 3, the shipper terminal 3 has a communication unit 31, an image capturing unit 32, a position acquisition unit 33, an operation input unit 34, a display unit 35, a control unit 36, and a storage unit 37.

[0066] The communication unit 31 has the same function and configuration as the above-mentioned communication unit 11. The photographing unit 32 includes a camera equipped with known hardware.

[0067] The position acquisition unit 33 includes a receiver that receives a satellite positioning signal from a satellite in a satellite positioning system such as a GPS (Global Positioning System). The position acquisition unit 33 can acquire the position information of the shipper terminal 3 at the time of shipping the package (hereinafter referred to as "shipping position information") by measuring the position of the own device from the received satellite positioning signal. The shipping position information may be information input to the shipper terminal 3 by the shipper.

[0068] The operation input unit 34 includes a known input device such as a touch panel or input buttons that allows the user of the shipper terminal 3 (here, the shipper) to perform an input operation.

[0069] The display unit 35 includes a known display device such as a liquid crystal display, etc. However, a touch panel display used as an input device may also function as the display device.

[0070] In the control unit 36, the package image acquisition unit 41 generates a captured image (still image or video) by capturing an image of the package to be shipped by the photographing unit 32 based on an input operation by the user. Hereinafter, the captured images of the package before and after packaging are referred to as a "packaged package image" and a "packaged package image", respectively, as necessary.

[0071] In this embodiment, the terms "before packaging" and similar thereto mean that the contents of the package are placed in packaging material and the lid of the packaging material is open so that the contents can be viewed (i.e., photographed). Moreover, the terms "after packaging" and similar thereto mean that the lid of the packaging material is closed (i.e., packaging is completed).

[0072] The luggage image acquisition unit 41 can display a first luggage photographing screen 52A on the display as the display unit 35 for guiding the user of the consignor terminal 3 to photograph the luggage 51A before packing, as shown in FIG. 4, for example. The user can generate a luggage image before packing by performing a photographing operation with the camera in a state where the contents of the luggage 51A (here, a plurality of wines) are contained in a packaging material (here, a cardboard box) and the lid part (here, an inner flap and an outer flap on the top surface) of the packaging material is open so that the contents can be seen. In addition, a guidance statement (a message "Please take a picture of the luggage before packing" in the example of FIG. 4) that encourages the user to take a picture of the luggage before packing can be displayed on the luggage photographing screen 52A. The position and contents of such a guidance statement are not limited to the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 and can be changed as appropriate. In addition, the consignor terminal 3 may output a voice guidance that encourages the user to take a picture of the luggage before packing together with (or instead of) the display of the guidance statement.

[0073] Also, as shown in FIG. 5, for example, the luggage image acquisition unit 41 can display on the display a second luggage photographing screen 52B for guiding the user of the consignor terminal 3 to photograph the luggage 51B after packaging. The user can generate a packaged luggage image by performing a photographing operation of the luggage 51B with the camera while the lid of the packaging material is closed. Note that the luggage photographing screen 52B may display a guidance statement encouraging the user to photograph the luggage after packaging (in the example of FIG. 5, a message saying "Please photograph the luggage after packaging"). The position and contents of such a guidance statement are not limited to the embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and can be changed as appropriate. Also, the consignor terminal 3 may output a voice guidance encouraging the user to photograph the luggage after packaging together with (or instead of) displaying the guidance statement.

[0074] The size measurement unit 42 acquires dimensional data of the package (hereinafter referred to as "post-packaging dimensional data") by measuring the external dimensions of the package after packaging based on an image of the package (e.g., a package image after packaging) captured by the imaging unit 32. In this embodiment, the post-packaging dimensional data is the lengths of three sides (length (or depth), width (or width), and height) of the cubic packaging material of the package (e.g., cardboard). When the post-packaging dimensional data is successfully acquired, the size measurement unit 42 can store it in the memory unit 37 in association with the package image before packaging and the package image after packaging.

[0075] The size measurement unit 42 can display a size measurement screen 55 on the display to guide the user of the consignor terminal 3 to measure the size of the outer shape of the package 51B after packaging, as shown in FIG. 6, for example. The user can obtain the post-packing dimension data by checking the size measurement result 56 on the size measurement screen 55 and pressing the confirmation button 57. If the user determines that there is a problem with the size measurement result 56, the user can perform re-measurement of the size by pressing the re-measurement button 58. The size measurement screen 55 may be integrated into the above-mentioned package photographing screen 52B (see FIG. 5). For example, while the user photographs the package on the package photographing screen 52B, the result of the size measurement may be superimposed on the package photographing screen 52B in real time at predetermined intervals (for example, at 5-second intervals). This allows the user of the consignor terminal 3 to photograph the package after packaging while checking the size on the package photographing screen 52B, improving the convenience.

[0076] The weight information acquisition unit 43 acquires information on the weight of the package to be shipped (hereinafter referred to as “shipping weight”) based on an input operation by the user, and stores it in the storage unit 37 as a part of the shipping procedure information 48.

[0077] The time information acquisition unit 44 acquires current time information as package shipping time information at a predetermined timing. For example, the time information acquisition unit 44 can acquire the current time at the timing when a package shipping application is made from the shipper terminal 3 to the delivery management server 2, and use that time as the package shipping time. Alternatively, the time information acquisition unit 44 may use the photographing time of the package image after packaging (i.e., the current time at the time of photographing) as the package shipping time. The shipping time information is associated with the current location information acquired by the location acquisition unit 63, and they are stored in the storage unit 37 as part of the shipping procedure information.

[0078] The shipping procedure processing unit 45 executes processing related to the shipment procedure of the package by the shipper. The processing related to the shipping procedure includes processing related to the shipment application to the delivery management server 2 (hereinafter referred to as "shipping processing"), as well as sending and receiving information related to the delivery and receipt of the package after shipment. In addition, in the shipping processing, the shipping procedure processing unit 45 can generate unpacking guide information for guiding the consignee in unpacking the package based on the package image before packing, the package image after packing, and the package dimensional data after packing.

[0079] The storage unit 37 stores a delivery application 47 as a control program for the consignor terminal 3 to execute the shipping process. The delivery application 47 is installed in the consignor terminal 3 in advance. The storage unit 37 also stores shipping procedure information 48 and user information 49 that are transmitted to the delivery management server 2 when a package shipping application is made. The shipping procedure information 48 includes an image of the package before packaging, an image of the package after packaging, the contents of the package, the delivery destination (such as the address and name of the consignee), the shipping weight, the shipping time of the package, the shipping position of the package, and the dimensional data of the package. The shipping procedure information 48 may also include unpacking guide information for guiding the consignee in unpacking the package. The user information 49 includes information about the user who uses the consignor terminal 3 (for example, the address and name of the consignor, and payment information).

[0080] At least some of the functions of each of the units 41-45 in the control unit 36 ​​can be realized by at least one processor executing a predetermined control program (including a delivery application 47). The control unit 36 ​​can also comprehensively control the operation of the shipper terminal 3. The memory unit 37 can include a storage device such as a storage for storing data and information required for processing related to the shipping procedure.

[0081] Fig. 7 is a functional block diagram of the deliverer terminal 4 shown in Fig. 1. The deliverer terminal 4 includes a computer for executing processes required for the deliverer to perform delivery work. The deliverer terminal 4 includes an information device with a communication function, such as a smartphone, tablet terminal, or notebook PC, carried by the deliverer.

[0082] The deliverer terminal 4 has a communication unit 61, an image capturing unit 62, a position acquisition unit 63, an operation input unit 64, a display unit 65, a control unit 66, and a memory unit 67. The communication unit 61, the image capturing unit 62, the position acquisition unit 63, the operation input unit 64, and the display unit 65 have the same functions and configurations as the communication unit 31, the image capturing unit 32, the position acquisition unit 33, the operation input unit 34, and the display unit 35 of the shipper terminal 3, respectively.

[0083] In the control unit 66, the luggage image acquisition unit 71, size measurement unit 72, weight information acquisition unit 73, and time information acquisition unit 74 function generally in the same manner as the luggage image acquisition unit 41, size measurement unit 42, weight information acquisition unit 43, and time information acquisition unit 44 of the shipper terminal 3, respectively.

[0084] The luggage image acquisition unit 71 can display a luggage photography screen on the display to guide the user (here, the delivery person) to photograph the luggage during delivery. The user can generate a luggage image (hereinafter, referred to as a "luggage image during delivery") by photographing the luggage during delivery with a camera.

[0085] The size measurement unit 72 obtains dimensional data of the parcel (hereinafter referred to as "during delivery dimension data") by measuring the external size of the parcel during delivery based on an image of the parcel captured by the photographing unit 62 (e.g., an image of the parcel during delivery).

[0086] The time information acquisition unit 74 acquires information on the current time at a predetermined timing as information on the time during delivery (hereinafter referred to as "time during delivery"). The information on the time during delivery is associated with information on the current location (hereinafter referred to as "location during delivery") acquired by the location acquisition unit 63, and these are stored in the storage unit 67 as part of the package delivery information 79. Information on the time during delivery and the location during delivery can be acquired at multiple points (i.e., multiple timings) on the package delivery route.

[0087] The weight information acquisition unit 73 acquires information on the weight of a package in the middle of delivery (hereinafter referred to as “weight during delivery”) based on an input operation by the user, and stores the information in the storage unit 37 as the shipping procedure information 48.

[0088] In the control unit 66, the temperature information acquisition unit 75 acquires at least one of the temperature of the package being delivered and the ambient temperature of the package as the package temperature. The user can input the package temperature to the deliverer terminal 4 by referring to temperature measurement data from an external thermometer. Alternatively, the deliverer terminal 4 may communicate with an external thermometer to acquire the temperature measurement data as the package temperature.

[0089] The delivery processing unit 76 executes processing related to the delivery work of packages by a deliverer. The processing related to the delivery work includes processing related to the management of packages to be delivered (hereinafter referred to as "package management processing"), as well as sending and receiving information related to the delivery of packages. The package management processing includes, for example, a process of matching images of packages during delivery with images of packages after packaging (an example of a process of matching during delivery), a process of matching weight during delivery with shipping weight, and a process of matching dimension data during delivery with dimension data after packaging (an example of a process of matching dimension during delivery).

[0090] The package management process also includes a process for checking the package temperature against a preset temperature tolerance range. If the package temperature is outside the predetermined temperature tolerance range, the delivery processing unit 76 determines that an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of the package.

[0091] The parcel management process also includes a comparison process for determining whether the parcel is being delivered normally (for example, at the scheduled time). The delivery processing unit 76 can calculate the delivery time from the difference between the parcel's dispatch time information and current time information (i.e., information on the time at a specified point during delivery) by acquiring the parcel's dispatch time information and current time information (i.e., information on the time at a specified point during delivery). The delivery processing unit 76 can also calculate the delivery distance from the difference between the parcel's dispatch location information and current location information (i.e., information on the location at a specified point during delivery) by acquiring the parcel's dispatch location information and current location information (i.e., information on the location at a specified point during delivery). The delivery processing unit 76 can then compare the delivery speed calculated from the delivery time and delivery distance with a preset standard delivery speed (i.e., determine whether the difference between the two is within an allowable range) to determine whether the parcel is being delivered normally.

[0092] At least a part of the functions of each of the units 71-76 in the control unit 66 can be realized by at least one processor executing a predetermined control program. The control unit 66 can also comprehensively control the operation of the deliverer terminal 4. The memory unit 67 can include a storage device such as a storage for storing data and information required for processing related to the delivery work.

[0093] The storage unit 67 stores luggage delivery information 79 related to luggage and its delivery. The luggage delivery information 79 includes at least a part of the shipping procedure information 48 received from the shipper terminal 3 via the delivery management server 2, as well as information such as luggage images during delivery, dimensional data during delivery, time during delivery, location during delivery, weight during delivery, and luggage temperature.

[0094] Fig. 8 is a functional block diagram of the consignee terminal 5 shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a navigation screen relating to a method of unpacking a package. Fig. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a navigation screen relating to a method of photographing a package after it has been unpacked.

[0095] The consignee terminal 5 includes a computer for executing processes required to confirm receipt of the package. The consignee terminal 5 includes an information device having a communication function, such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a notebook PC, carried by the consignee.

[0096] The consignee terminal 5 may be a computer installed in a store operated by a delivery company and available to the consignee. If the consignee does not have a consignee terminal 5, the deliverer terminal 4 (an example of a receiving terminal) may be used instead of the consignee terminal 5. In this case, the operation of the deliverer terminal 4 functioning as the consignee terminal 5 may be performed by the deliverer.

[0097] The consignee terminal 5 has a communication unit 81, an image capturing unit 82, a position acquisition unit 83, an operation input unit 84, a display unit 85, a control unit 86, and a memory unit 87. The communication unit 81, the image capturing unit 82, the position acquisition unit 83, the operation input unit 84, and the display unit 85 have the same functions and configurations as the communication unit 31, the image capturing unit 32, the position acquisition unit 33, the operation input unit 34, and the display unit 35 of the consignor terminal 3, respectively.

[0098] In the control unit 86, a package image acquisition unit 91 and a size measurement unit 92 function in roughly the same manner as the package image acquisition unit 41 and the size measurement unit 42 of the shipper terminal 3, respectively.

[0099] The luggage image acquisition unit 91 generates a captured image by capturing an image of the received luggage using the photographing unit 82 based on an input operation by a user (here, the consignee). Hereinafter, the captured images of the luggage before and after unpacking will be referred to as a "pre-unpacking luggage image" and a "post-unpacking luggage image", respectively, as necessary.

[0100] In this embodiment, "before unpacking" or a similar term means that the lid of the packaging material is closed, just like "after packaging." Also, "after unpacking" or a similar term means that the contents of the package are still in the packaging material, and the lid of the packaging material is open so that the contents can be viewed, just like "before packaging."

[0101] The luggage image acquisition unit 91 can display an unpacking navigation screen 101 (an example of information showing a method of unpacking a luggage) on the display to guide the user on how to unpack the luggage, as shown in FIG. 9, for example. The luggage image acquisition unit 91 can generate the unpacking navigation screen 101 based on unpacking guide information acquired from the shipper terminal 3 via the delivery management server 2. For example, the unpacking navigation screen 101 displays a virtual image (see the dashed line portion in FIG. 9) showing a state in which the lid of the packaging material is opened. Note that the display on the unpacking navigation screen 101 is not limited to the form shown in FIG. 9, and may be any display that allows the user to understand the state of the luggage after unpacking and the unpacking process. For example, animations or videos may be displayed as the display on the unpacking navigation screen 101. In addition, on the consignee terminal 5, along with (or instead of) displaying on the unpacking navigation screen 101, audio guidance (an example of information showing how to unpack a package) may be provided to inform the user of the state of the package after it has been unpacked and the unpacking process.

[0102] Also, as shown in FIG. 10, for example, the luggage image acquisition unit 91 can display on the display a photography navigation screen 102 (one example of a screen showing how to photograph luggage) for guiding the user how to photograph the luggage 51A after unpacking. The luggage image acquisition unit 91 can generate the photography navigation screen 102 based on the unpacking guide information, similar to the unpacking navigation screen 101. For example, the photography navigation screen 102 displays a virtual image (see the dashed line portion in FIG. 10) showing the position where the luggage in the unpacked state should be placed (i.e., the placement of the luggage to be photographed). By photographing the luggage with a camera according to the photography navigation screen 102, the user can generate a luggage image (hereinafter referred to as a "received luggage image") suitable for a matching process with the luggage image before packing that is executed later.

[0103] The size measurement unit 92 obtains dimensional data of the package (hereinafter referred to as "pre-unpacking dimensional data") by measuring the external size of the received package based on an image of the package (e.g., an image of the received package) captured by the photographing unit 82.

[0104] In the control unit 86, the receiving procedure processing unit 93 executes processing related to the procedure for receiving the package by the consignee. The processing related to the receiving procedure includes a verification process (hereinafter referred to as "receiving process") for determining whether the delivery of the package has been completed normally, as well as sending and receiving information related to the dispatch, delivery, and receipt of the package.

[0105] The receiving process includes, for example, a process of comparing a pre-unpacking package image with a post-packing package image (an example of a pre-unpacking comparison process), a process of comparing a post-unpacking package image with a pre-packing package image (an example of a post-unpacking comparison process), and a process of comparing pre-unpacking dimension data with post-packing dimension data (an example of a dimension comparison process). The receiving process may also include a process for the consignee to input to the consignee terminal 5 that the consignee has determined that the package has been received with the expected contents (an example of an approval operation regarding the receipt of the package).

[0106] The storage unit 87 stores a delivery application 96 as a control program for the consignee terminal 5 to execute the receiving process. The delivery application 96 is installed in advance in the consignee terminal 5. The delivery application 96 may be the same application program as the delivery application 47. The storage unit 87 also stores package receipt information 97. The package receipt information 97 includes pre-opening package images, post-opening package images, pre-opening dimension data, and the like.

[0107] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of parcel delivery processing in the delivery system 1.

[0108] The consignor starts the delivery application 47 on the consignor terminal 3 (1001) and executes an application for use of the delivery of the package to the delivery management server 2 (1002). At this time, the consignor terminal 3 transmits delivery application information to the delivery management server 2 (1003). The delivery application information includes the address and name of the consignor, payment information, and the like.

[0109] The delivery management server 2 accepts the use of the parcel delivery service based on the delivery application information received from the shipper terminal 3 (1004). The delivery management server 2 stores the information included in the received delivery application information in the storage unit 13 as service user information 26.

[0110] Next, when the consignor completes preparations for shipping the package (i.e., packing, etc.), the consignor executes the shipping process using the delivery application 47 (1005). At this time, the consignor terminal 3 transmits the shipping procedure information (or at least a part thereof) to the delivery management server 2 (1006).

[0111] The delivery management server 2 starts delivery of the package based on the shipping procedure information received from the shipper terminal 3 (1007). At this time, the delivery management server 2 determines a shipper who will be responsible for the delivery of the accepted package, and transmits package recovery instruction information to the shipper terminal 4 used by the shipper (1008). The package recovery instruction information includes at least a portion of the shipping procedure information from the shipper terminal 3 (e.g., an image of the package before packing, an image of the package after packing, and dimensional data after packing). Furthermore, the delivery management server 2 transmits a package delivery schedule notice to the consignee terminal 5 used by the consignee (1009). The delivery schedule notice includes at least a portion of the shipping procedure information (e.g., an image of the package before packing, an image of the package after packing, and dimensional data after packing) in addition to information regarding the package shipping schedule.

[0112] The consignee terminal 5 stores the package information 27 contained in the delivery schedule notice received from the delivery management server 2 in the storage unit 87 as part of the package receipt information 97 (1010).

[0113] When the deliverer terminal 4 receives package recovery instruction information from the delivery management server 2, it displays the package recovery instruction for the deliverer on the display unit 65 (1011) and executes delivery start processing (1012). The display of the package recovery instruction enables the deliverer to recognize that delivery work needs to be performed. In the delivery start processing, the deliverer terminal 4 transmits delivery start information to the delivery management server 2 (1013). The delivery start information includes information such as the start time of delivery.

[0114] When the delivery management server 2 receives the delivery start information from the deliverer terminal 4, it transmits the delivery start information (or at least a part of it) to the recipient terminal 5 (1014).

[0115] The deliverer terminal 4 can appropriately execute package management processing while the deliverer is delivering the package (1015). After that, the deliverer terminal 4 transmits the result of the package management processing to the delivery management server 2 as delivery in progress information (1016). At this time, if the result of the package management processing (i.e., the result of the determination as to whether the package is being delivered normally or not) is undesirable, the deliverer terminal 4 can transmit an abnormality occurrence notification to at least one of the shipper terminal 3 and the consignee terminal 5 via the delivery management server 2, indicating that an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of the package.

[0116] When the delivery management server 2 receives the in-delivery information from the deliverer terminal 4, it transmits the in-delivery information (or at least a part of it) to the recipient terminal 5 (1017).

[0117] Thereafter, when the consignee receives the package delivered by the deliverer, the consignee starts the delivery application 96 on the consignor terminal 3 (1018) and executes the receiving process using the delivery application 96 (1019).

[0118] When the receiving process is completed normally, the consignee terminal 5 determines that the delivery of the package has been completed normally as planned. Furthermore, the consignee terminal 5 transmits a receipt confirmation notice indicating that the receipt of the package has been completed to the delivery management server 2 (1020). When the delivery management server 2 receives the receipt confirmation notice from the consignee terminal 5, it transmits the receipt confirmation notice (or part of the information contained therein) to the shipper terminal 3 (1021).

[0119] In this way, if the receiving process (including, for example, the pre-unpacking verification process and the post-unpacking verification process) is successful, the consignee terminal 5 determines that delivery of the package has been completed successfully, thereby enabling the delivery service to reliably deliver the package with the planned contents from the shipper to the consignee.

[0120] When the shipper terminal 3 receives the receipt confirmation notification from the delivery management server 2, it displays a delivery completion display for the shipper on the display unit 35 (1022). This delivery completion display enables the shipper to recognize that the delivery of the package is complete.

[0121] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram showing the flow of the shipping process (1005) by the shipper terminal 3 shown in FIG.

[0122] In the shipping process, the consignor terminal 3 photographs the package before it is packed based on the operation of the consignor (i.e., the user of the consignor terminal 3) (ST101). This generates an unpacked package image that allows the contents of the package to be confirmed. Next, the consignor terminal 3 photographs the package after it is packed based on the operation of the consignor (ST102). This generates a packed package image that allows the appearance of the package to be confirmed.

[0123] Thereafter, the consignor terminal 3 acquires post-packing dimension data of the package by measuring the external dimensions of the package after packaging based on the operation of the consignor (ST103). The consignor terminal 3 also acquires the shipping weight of the package to be shipped based on the input operation of the user (ST104). Furthermore, the consignor terminal 3 acquires the current time information as the shipping time of the package (ST105).

[0124] Therefore, the shipper terminal 3 generates shipping procedure information including the information obtained in steps ST101-ST105, and transmits this to the delivery management server 2 (ST106). The shipping procedure information includes information intended for the deliverer terminal 4. At least a portion of the shipping procedure information is then transmitted (i.e., transferred) from the delivery management server 2 to the deliverer terminal 4. The shipping procedure information also includes information intended for the consignee terminal 5, and at least a portion of the shipping procedure information is transmitted from the delivery management server 2 to the consignee terminal 5.

[0125] FIG. 13 is a flow diagram showing the flow of the package management process (1015) by the deliverer terminal 4 shown in FIG.

[0126] In the package management process, the deliverer terminal 4 acquires at least a portion of the delivery procedure information (ST201). The delivery procedure information is included in the package collection instruction information (see 1008 in FIG. 11) received from the delivery management server 2, for example.

[0127] Next, the deliverer terminal 4 photographs the package during delivery based on the operation of the deliverer (i.e., the user of the deliverer terminal 4) (ST202). This generates an image of the package during delivery that allows the appearance of the package to be confirmed.

[0128] Next, the deliverer terminal 4 acquires the package's dimension data during delivery by measuring the external dimensions of the package during delivery based on the deliverer's operation (ST203). The deliverer terminal 4 also acquires the package's weight during delivery based on the deliverer's input operation (ST204). The deliverer terminal 4 also acquires the current time information as the package's delivery time (ST205). The deliverer terminal 4 also acquires the package temperature based on the deliverer's input operation or temperature measurement data from an external thermometer (ST206).

[0129] The deliverer terminal 4 then executes a verification process to determine whether the package has been delivered normally (ST206). The verification process is executed using at least a part of the shipping procedure information acquired in ST201 and the image (i.e., appearance), size, weight, delivery time, and temperature of the package acquired in steps ST202-ST206. However, the deliverer terminal 4 may omit a part of the verification process related to the image, size, weight, delivery time, and temperature of the package.

[0130] Therefore, if all the collation processes in step ST207 are successful (Yes in ST208), the deliverer terminal 4 transmits delivery status information to the delivery management server 2 to inform the recipient of the delivery status of the package (ST209).

[0131] On the other hand, if the verification in step ST207 fails (No in ST208), the deliverer terminal 4 displays an error message on the display unit 65 to inform the deliverer that the verification has failed (ST210). This allows the deliverer to recognize that an abnormality has occurred with the package's appearance, size, weight, delivery time, or temperature.

[0132] The deliverer terminal 4 can also transmit to the delivery management server 2 as delivery in progress information that an abnormality has occurred with respect to any of the package's appearance, size, weight, delivery time, and temperature. In this case, the delivery management server 2 can further transmit (i.e., transfer) the delivery in progress information indicating that an abnormality has occurred to at least one of the shipper terminal 3 and the consignee terminal 5.

[0133] FIG. 14 is a flow diagram showing the flow of the receiving process (1019) by the consignee terminal 5 shown in FIG.

[0134] In the receiving process, the consignee terminal 5 photographs the package received from the deliverer based on the operation of the consignee (i.e., the user of the consignee terminal 5) (ST301). This generates a pre-opening package image that allows the appearance of the package to be confirmed. Next, the consignee terminal 5 acquires pre-opening dimension data of the package by measuring the external size of the package before opening based on the operation of the consignee (ST302).

[0135] Thereafter, when the package is opened by the consignee, the consignee terminal 5 photographs the package after opening based on the operation of the consignee (ST303). This generates an image of the package after opening that allows the contents of the package to be confirmed.

[0136] Thereafter, the consignee terminal 5 executes a receipt verification process to determine whether the package has been delivered normally (i.e., whether the package with the planned contents has been received) (ST304). The receipt verification process is executed using a part of the shipping procedure information and the image (i.e., appearance) and size of the package obtained by steps ST301-ST303. However, the consignee terminal 5 may omit a part of the receipt verification process related to the image and size of the package. Note that a part of the shipping procedure information is included, for example, in the shipping schedule notice (see 1009 in FIG. 11) that the consignee terminal 5 receives from the delivery management server 2.

[0137] If the verification in step ST304 is successful (Yes in ST305), the consignee terminal 5 transmits a receipt confirmation notice (see 1020 in FIG. 11) to the delivery management server 2 to inform the consignor that the package has been received (ST306). The delivery management server 2 can transmit the receipt confirmation notice (or at least a part of it) to the deliverer terminal 4.

[0138] On the other hand, if the verification in step ST304 fails (No in ST305), the consignee terminal 5 displays an error message on the display unit 85 to inform the consignee that the verification has failed (ST307). This allows the consignee to recognize that an abnormality has occurred with either the appearance or size of the package.

[0139] The consignee terminal 5 can also send an abnormality occurrence notice, indicating that an abnormality has occurred in either the appearance or size of the package, to the delivery management server 2 instead of the above-mentioned receipt confirmation notice. In this case, the delivery management server 2 can send (i.e., transfer) the abnormality occurrence notice to the consignor terminal 3 instead of the above-mentioned receipt confirmation notice. The abnormality occurrence notice can include information indicating the reason why the abnormality occurred (for example, failure of image matching due to a difference in appearance).

[0140] FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing a first modified example of the receiving process by the consignee terminal 5 shown in FIG.

[0141] In the first modified example of the receipt process, the consignee terminal 5 executes steps ST401-ST402 similar to steps ST301-ST302 in FIG. 14. Then, the consignee terminal 5 executes a first receipt verification process to determine whether the package has been delivered normally (ST403). The first receipt verification process is executed using a part of the shipping procedure information and the image (i.e., the appearance) and size of the package obtained by steps ST401-ST402. Note that the consignee terminal 5 may omit a part of the receipt verification process related to the image and size of the package in step ST403.

[0142] Therefore, if the verification in step ST403 is successful (Yes in ST404), the consignee terminal 5 photographs the package after opening in the same manner as in step ST303 (ST405). Furthermore, the consignee terminal 5 executes a second receipt verification process to determine whether the package has been delivered normally (ST406). The second receipt verification process is executed using a part of the shipping procedure information and the package image after opening obtained in step ST405.

[0143] Therefore, if the collation in step ST406 is successful (Yes in ST407), the consignee terminal 5 transmits a receipt confirmation notice to the delivery management server 2 (ST408), similarly to step ST306.

[0144] On the other hand, if the collation in step ST403 or step ST407 fails (No in ST404 or No in ST407), the consignee terminal 5 displays an error (ST409) in the same manner as in step ST307. By displaying an error (i.e., a notice to make the consignee aware of the failure of the collation process) when the collation process (one example of the dimension collation process) in step ST404 fails, it is possible to avoid a trouble in which the consignee opens a package that was delivered by mistake.

[0145] In this way, in the first modified example of the receipt processing, only if the first receipt verification processing is successful, the package after opening is photographed and the second receipt verification processing is executed. This makes it possible to avoid the recipient terminal 5 from needlessly photographing the package after opening and executing the second receipt verification processing even if the package's appearance is different from the expected package (i.e., the first receipt verification processing has failed).

[0146] FIG. 16 is a flow chart showing a second modified example of the receiving process by the consignee terminal 5 shown in FIG.

[0147] In the second modified example of the receiving process, the consignee terminal 5 executes steps ST501-ST504 similar to steps ST301-ST304 in FIG.

[0148] If the verification in step ST504 is successful (Yes in ST505), the consignee terminal 5 displays an approval screen requesting the consignee's approval on the display unit 85. If the consignee performs an approval operation (i.e., an input operation) on the approval screen displayed on the shipper terminal 3, the consignee terminal 5 determines that the consignee's approval has been completed (Yes in ST506) and transmits a receipt confirmation notice to the delivery management server 2 (ST507), similar to step ST306.

[0149] On the other hand, if the collation in step 505 fails (No in ST505), the consignee terminal 5 displays an error (ST508) in the same manner as in step ST307.

[0150] In this way, in the second modified example of the receiving process, the consignee terminal 5 transmits a receiving confirmation notice when the verification process is successful and the consignee performs an approval operation regarding the receipt of the package. Therefore, it is possible to avoid sending an uncertain receiving confirmation notice from the consignee terminal 5 to the delivery management server 2 or the consignor terminal 3.

[0151] As described above, the embodiments have been described as examples of the technology disclosed in this application. However, the technology in this disclosure is not limited to these, and can be applied to embodiments in which modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. are made. In addition, it is also possible to combine the components described in the above embodiments to create new embodiments. [Industrial Applicability]

[0152] The delivery system and delivery method disclosed herein enable reliable delivery of planned packages from a shipper to a consignee in a delivery service, and are useful as a delivery system and delivery method for delivering packaged packages from a shipper to a consignee. [Explanation of symbols]

[0153] 1: Delivery system 2: Delivery management server 3: Shipper terminal 4: Delivery person's terminal 5: Recipient terminal 6: Communication Network 11: Communications Department 12: Control section 13: Storage section 21: User Reception 22:Delivery Management Department 26: Service user information 27: Baggage Information 28: Delivery information 31: Communications Department 32: Photography Department 33: Position acquisition part 34: Operation input section 35: Display section 36: Control section 37: Storage section 41: Baggage image acquisition unit 42: Size measurement section 43: Weight information acquisition section 44: Time information acquisition section 45: Shipping Procedures Department 47, 96: Shipping Applications 48: Shipping procedure information 49: User information 55: Size measurement screen 56: Size measurement results 61: Communications Department 62: Photography Department 63: Position acquisition part 64: Operation input section 65:Display section 66: Control section 67: Storage section 71: Baggage image acquisition unit 72: Size measurement section 73: Weight information acquisition section 74: Time information acquisition section 75:Temperature information acquisition section 76: Delivery Processing Unit 79: Parcel delivery information 81: Communications Department 82: Photography Department 83: Position acquisition part 84: Operation input section 85:Display section 86: Control section 87: Storage section 91: Baggage image acquisition unit 92: Size measurement section 93: Receipt procedure processing section 97: Baggage claim information 101: Unpacking navigation screen 102: Shooting navigation screen

Claims

1. A delivery system for delivering packaged goods, comprising: A shipping terminal that executes processing related to the shipping of the package; A receiving terminal that executes a process related to receiving the package; Equipped with The shipping terminal includes: Acquire a package image before packaging, the package image being generated by photographing the package before packaging; Acquire a packaged package image generated by photographing the package after packaging; Transmitting the unpacked package image and the packed package image to the receiving terminal via a network; The receiving terminal includes: receiving the unpacked luggage image and the packed luggage image; Acquire an unopened baggage image generated by photographing the baggage before it is unopened; A pre-opening verification process is executed to verify the pre-opening package image and the packed package image; Acquire an unpacked baggage image generated by photographing the baggage after unpacking; execute a post-unpacking verification process for verifying the post-unpacking package image and the pre-packing package image; The delivery system determines that the delivery of the package has been completed normally if both the pre-unpacking verification process and the post-unpacking verification process are successful.

2. The shipping terminal includes: Obtaining post-packing dimension data relating to the external dimensions of the package after packaging; Transmitting the post-packaging dimension data to the receiving terminal via a network; The receiving terminal includes: Obtaining pre-opening dimension data relating to the exterior dimensions of the package before it is opened; Executing a dimension collation process for collating the pre-unpacking dimension data and the post-packing dimension data; The delivery system according to claim 1 , wherein the post-unpacking verification process is executed only if the dimension verification process is successful.

3. The receiving terminal includes: The delivery system of claim 2, wherein if any of the pre-unpacking verification process, the post-unpacking verification process, and the dimension verification process fails, an abnormality notification indicating that an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of the package is sent to the shipping terminal via a network.

4. The delivery system according to claim 3 , wherein the abnormality occurrence notification includes information indicating a reason why the abnormality occurred.

5. The delivery system of claim 1, wherein the receiving terminal sends a receipt confirmation notification indicating that delivery of the package has been completed successfully to the shipping terminal via a network when the pre-unpacking verification process and the post-unpacking verification process are all successful and an approval operation regarding the receipt of the package is performed by the user of the receiving terminal.

6. The shipping terminal includes: Transmitting unpacking guide information for guiding the unpacking of the package to the receiving terminal via a network; The receiving terminal includes: The delivery system according to claim 2 , wherein information indicating a method for unpacking the package based on the unpacking guide information is presented to the user before the post-unpacking package image is acquired.

7. The delivery system according to claim 6 , wherein the unpacking guide information is generated based on the unpacked package image, the packed package image, and the packed dimension data.

8. The receiving terminal includes: The delivery system according to claim 6 or 7, further comprising: after acquiring the unopened package image, displaying on a display a screen showing a method for photographing the unpacked package based on the unpacking guide information.

9. The shipping terminal includes: The distribution system according to claim 2 , wherein when the post-packaging dimension data is normally acquired, the post-packaging dimension data is stored in association with the unpackaged package image and the post-packaging package image.

10. The shipping terminal includes at least one of a shipper terminal which is a terminal used by a shipper who ships the package and a deliverer terminal which is a terminal used by a deliverer who delivers the package, 2. The delivery system of claim 1, wherein the receiving terminal includes a consignee terminal that is a terminal used by a consignee to receive the package.

11. A delivery system for delivering packaged goods, comprising: A shipping terminal that executes processing related to the shipping of the package; A receiving terminal that executes a process related to receiving the package; A delivery terminal that executes processing related to the delivery procedure of the package; Equipped with The shipping terminal includes: Acquire a package image before packaging, the package image being generated by photographing the package before packaging; Acquire a packaged package image generated by photographing the package after packaging; Transmitting the unpacked package image and the packed package image to the delivery terminal via a network; The delivery terminal comprises: Acquire an in-delivery package image generated by photographing the package during delivery; A process of verifying the image of the package during delivery is executed to verify the image of the package after packaging. acquiring in-transit dimension data relating to the external dimensions of the package in transit; Execute a process of comparing the in-delivery dimension data with the post-packaging dimension data; If both the in-delivery collation process and the in-delivery dimension collation process are successful, a delivery notification indicating that the delivery of the package is proceeding normally is transmitted to the receiving terminal via a network.

12. The shipper terminal includes: Obtaining shipping time information and shipping location information of the package; The delivery terminal comprises: Acquire current location information and current time information of the luggage, Calculating a delivery time based on the dispatch time information and the current time information; Calculating a delivery distance based on the shipping location information and the current location information; The delivery system according to claim 11, further comprising: determining whether or not the delivery of the package is being performed normally based on the delivery time and the delivery distance.

13. The delivery terminal comprises:

13. The delivery system according to claim 12, further comprising a step of transmitting a result of a determination as to whether or not the delivery of the package is being performed normally to the shipper terminal via a network.

14. The delivery terminal comprises: acquiring at least one of a temperature of the luggage and an ambient temperature of the luggage as a luggage temperature; The delivery system according to claim 11, further comprising: determining whether an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of the package by comparing the package temperature with a preset temperature tolerance range.

15. The receiving terminal includes a consignee terminal that is a terminal used by a consignee to receive the package; The delivery terminal comprises: A delivery system as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein if it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of the package, an abnormality notification indicating that an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of the package is sent to the consignee terminal via a network.

16. A delivery method for a delivery system for delivering a packaged item, comprising: The delivery system comprises: A shipping terminal that executes processing related to the shipping of the package; A receiving terminal that executes a process related to receiving the package; Equipped with The shipping terminal includes: Acquire a package image before packaging, the package image being generated by photographing the package before packaging; Acquire a packaged package image generated by photographing the package after packaging; Transmitting the unpacked package image and the packed package image to the receiving terminal via a network; The receiving terminal includes: receiving the unpacked luggage image and the packed luggage image; Acquire an unopened baggage image generated by photographing the baggage before it is unopened; A pre-opening verification process is executed to verify the pre-opening package image and the packed package image; Acquire an unpacked baggage image generated by photographing the baggage after unpacking; execute a post-unpacking verification process for verifying the post-unpacking package image and the pre-packing package image; The delivery method determines that the delivery of the package has been completed normally when both the pre-unpacking verification process and the post-unpacking verification process are successful.

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