Storage box system and control method thereof

Abstract

To provide a storage box system and a control method thereof which are capable of unlocking an electric lock of a storage box while maintaining a delivery completed state.SOLUTION: A storage box system includes a control unit that, when a first user stores an object destined for a second user, locks an electric lock of an in-use storage box when a door of the in-use storage box in which the first user has stored the object is closed among one or more storage boxes, generates first key unlocking information for unlocking the electric lock of the in-use storage box, and outputs the first key unlocking information, and a reception unit that receives the first key unlocking information input by the first user. The control unit associates identification information of the electric lock of the in-use storage box with the first key unlocking information for storing in a memory unit, obtains identification information of the electric lock of the in-use storage box associated with the received first key unlocking information from the memory unit, unlocks the electric lock of the in-use storage box corresponding to the identification information of the electric lock of the in-use storage box, and invalidates the first key unlocking information when a predetermined time has elapsed since the generation of the first key unlocking information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a storage box system and a control method.

Background Art

[0002] Regarding a storage box system, a technique capable of more reliably performing the delivery processing by a deliverer is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). This technique includes a storage warehouse capable of storing a package and locking the door, a control unit that unlocks the door when an input to open it is made after the door is closed before the delivery by the deliverer is completed, a display unit that notifies the deliverer of information by screen display, and an input unit that receives an input from the deliverer. The control unit displays an instruction to open on the display unit and receives an input to open from the input unit.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the above-described technique, for example, when a delivery company notices a mistake in putting a package into the storage warehouse, the box can be relocked as long as the storage is not completed. If it is after the storage is completed, for example, if the deliverer opens the door using a password for pickup or the like, a system error such as the delivery to the customer being completed may occur. An object of the present invention is to provide a storage box system and a control method capable of unlocking the electric lock of a storage box while maintaining the state after the delivery is completed.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] (1) One aspect of the present invention is a storage box system including one or more storage boxes. Each of the one or more storage boxes includes a housing capable of storing an object, a door enabling the object stored in the housing to be taken in and out, and an electric lock for locking and unlocking the door. When the first user stores an object addressed to the second user, the storage box system locks the electric lock of the used storage box among the one or more storage boxes when the door of the used storage box in which the first user stores the object is closed, generates first key unlocking information for unlocking the electric lock of the used storage box, and outputs the generated first key unlocking information. The storage box system further includes a reception unit for receiving the first key unlocking information input by the first user. The control unit stores the identification information of the electric lock of the used storage box and the first key unlocking information in a storage unit in association with each other, acquires from the storage unit the identification information of the electric lock of the used storage box associated with the first key unlocking information received by the reception unit, unlocks the electric lock of the used storage box corresponding to the acquired identification information of the electric lock of the used storage box, and invalidates the first key unlocking information when a predetermined time has elapsed after the first key unlocking information is generated.

[0006] (2) One aspect of the present invention is the storage box system according to (1) above, wherein when the control unit unlocks the electric lock of the used storage box, the control unit deletes from the storage unit the information associating the identification information of the electric lock of the used storage box and the first key unlocking information.

[0007] (3) One aspect of the present invention is the storage box system according to (2) above, wherein even when a predetermined time has elapsed after the first key unlocking information is generated, if the information associating the identification information of the electric lock of the used storage box and the first key unlocking information is stored in the storage unit, the control unit deletes from the storage unit the information associating the identification information of the electric lock of the used storage box and the first key unlocking information.

[0008] (4) One aspect of the present invention is in the storage box system described in (1) above. When the door of the used storage box selected by the first user is closed, the control unit locks the electric lock of the used storage box, generates second key unlocking information for unlocking the electric lock of the used storage box, outputs the generated second key unlocking information based on the second user identification information of the second user, associates the identification information of the electric lock of the used storage box with the second key unlocking information and stores it in the storage unit. The reception unit receives the second key unlocking information input by the second user. The control unit acquires from the storage unit the identification information of the electric lock of the storage box associated with the second key unlocking information received by the reception unit, and unlocks the electric lock of the storage box corresponding to the acquired identification information of the electric lock of the storage box.

[0009] (5) One aspect of the present invention is in the storage box system described in (4) above. After generating the second key unlocking information, the control unit generates the first key unlocking information.

[0010] (6) One aspect of the present invention is in the storage box system described in (1) above. The storage box system further includes an input unit. The control unit acquires the second user identification information of the second user input by the first user from the input unit. When the acquired second user identification information is stored in a storage unit that stores the identification information of users who can use the storage box system, the control unit causes the display unit to display confirmation information for prompting the confirmation of the object to be stored in the used storage box. When the first user performs an operation to open the door of the used storage box on the input unit with respect to the confirmation information, the door of the used storage box is opened.

[0011] (7) One aspect of the present invention is in the storage box system described in (4) above. The control unit outputs the second key unlocking information based on the subscriber identification information of the communication service to which the second user subscribes.

[0012] (8) One aspect of the present invention is in the storage box system described in (4) above. When the control unit cannot output the second key unlocking information based on the second user identification information, the control unit causes the printing device to print the second key unlocking information.

[0013] (9) One aspect of the present invention is the storage box system described in (4) above, wherein the first key unlocking information and the second key unlocking information include either one or both of characters and numbers, and the number of either one or both of the included characters and numbers is different.

[0014] (10) One aspect of the present invention is a control method executed by a storage box system including one or more storage boxes. Each of the one or more storage boxes includes a housing capable of storing an object, a door enabling the object stored in the housing to be taken in and out, and an electric lock for locking and unlocking the door. When the first user stores an object addressed to the second user, the storage box system locks the electric lock of the used storage box when the door of the used storage box in which the first user stores the object is closed among the one or more storage boxes, generates first key unlocking information for unlocking the electric lock of the used storage box, associates the identification information of the electric lock of the used storage box with the first key unlocking information and stores it in a storage unit, outputs the generated first key unlocking information, receives the first key unlocking information input by the first user, acquires the identification information of the electric lock of the used storage box associated with the received first key unlocking information from the storage unit, unlocks the electric lock of the used storage box corresponding to the acquired identification information of the electric lock of the used storage box, and invalidates the first key unlocking information when a predetermined time has elapsed since the first key unlocking information was generated.

Effect of the Invention

[0015] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a storage box system and a control method capable of unlocking the electric lock of a storage box while maintaining the state after delivery is completed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0016]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0017] Next, the storage box system and control method of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below are merely examples, and the embodiments to which the present invention is applied are not limited to the following embodiments. In all the drawings for explaining the embodiments, those having the same function are denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated explanations are omitted. In addition, "based on XX" as used in the present application means "based on at least XX", and includes cases where it is based on another element in addition to XX. Also, "based on XX" is not limited to the case where XX is directly used, and includes cases where it is based on something obtained by performing operations or processing on XX. "XX" is an arbitrary element (for example, arbitrary information).

[0018] <Embodiment> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the storage box system 10 according to the present embodiment. The storage box system 10 according to the present embodiment is a system for temporarily storing an object such as a package delivered from a delivery company to a user (recipient) of the storage box system 10, or an object such as a package whose shipment has been requested from a user (sender) to a delivery company. The storage box system 10 is installed, for example, in a company, a condominium, or the like. The storage box system 10 includes a plurality of storage boxes 20, a controller 31, a printing device 40, an information processing device 50, and a communication device 60.

[0019] Each of the plurality of storage boxes 20 includes a housing 21 capable of storing an object, a door 22 that enables the object stored in the housing 21 to be taken in and out by opening and closing the opening of the housing 21, and an electric lock 30 that locks and unlocks the door 22. The storage box 20 is installed, for example, within the outdoor premises of a company or near the entrance of a condominium. Unique identification information is preset for each of the plurality of storage boxes 20.

[0020] The electric lock 30 is provided corresponding to each of the plurality of doors 22, and electrically locks and unlocks the corresponding door 22. The controller 31 controls the locking and unlocking of the plurality of electric locks 30 based on a command signal transmitted from the information processing device 50 via the HUB 80.

[0021] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the controller 31 of the storage box system according to the present embodiment. The controller 31 includes a storage unit 310, an arithmetic processing unit 311, a control unit 312, and a LAN interface 313. The control unit 312 locks and unlocks the electric lock 30 by changing the energization state of the electric lock 30. The HUB 80 is connected to the LAN interface 313. In addition to the controller 31, the information processing device 50 and the communication device 60 are connected to the HUB 80. The LAN interface 313 enables communication between the information processing device 50 and the like connected to the HUB 80 and the controller 31.

[0022] The storage unit 310 stores unique identification information pre-assigned to each of the plurality of electric locks 30, control programs executed by the arithmetic processing unit 311, communication programs, and the like. The arithmetic processing unit 311 controls locking and unlocking of the plurality of electric locks 30 based on requests from the information processing device 50 by executing various programs pre-stored in the storage unit 310.

[0023] For example, the information processing device 50 transmits a locking request signal including the identification information of the electric lock 30 to be locked or an unlocking request signal including the identification information of the electric lock 30 to be unlocked to the controller 31. When the arithmetic processing unit 311 receives the locking request signal transmitted from the information processing device 50 via the HUB 80 and the LAN interface 313, it drives the control unit 312 to lock the electric lock 30 corresponding to the identification information of the electric lock included in the locking request signal. Further, when the arithmetic processing unit 311 receives the unlocking request signal transmitted from the information processing device 50 via the HUB 80 and the LAN interface 313, it drives the control unit 312 to unlock the electric lock 30 corresponding to the identification information of the electric lock included in the unlocking request signal. Returning to FIG. 1, the description will continue.

[0024] The printing device 40, the information processing device 50, and the communication device 60 are integrally installed in the storage box 20. Note that the printing device 40, the information processing device 50, and the communication device 60 may be installed separately from the storage box 20, or a part of the printing device 40, the information processing device 50, and the communication device 60 may be installed separately from the storage box 20. The printing device 40 is a device that prints various printed materials for a delivery company or a recipient. The printed materials include, for example, a receipt. The receipt is a printed material for proving that the delivery company has stored the goods in the storage box 20 when the goods are stored.

[0025] The communication device 60 is a part that enables wireless communication with the mobile terminal 70 via the network line NL or the telephone network TN. The mobile terminal 70 is a mobile phone, a smartphone, etc. held by a user who uses the storage box system 10. The mobile terminal 70 has a telephone function and has a unique telephone number. Also, the mobile terminal 70 has an SMS (Short Message Service) function and can send and receive SMS messages. SMS is a communication service provided using the subscriber identification information of the user. The information processing device 50 comprehensively controls the storage box 20 by performing various communications with the controller 31 and the communication device 60 via the HUB 80. Also, the information processing device 50 causes the printing device 40 to print various printed materials.

[0026] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the information processing device 50 of the storage box system 10 according to the present embodiment. The information processing device 50 includes a storage unit 51, an operation unit 52, a control unit 53, a LAN interface 55, and a USB interface 56. The storage unit 51 stores a control program, a communication program, storage box electric lock related information, first key unlocking information related information for the electric lock, and second key unlocking information related information for the electric lock. The storage box electric lock related information is information that associates the identification information of a plurality of storage boxes 20 included in the storage box system 10 with the identification information of the electric locks 30 provided in each of the plurality of storage boxes 20. The first key unlocking information related information is information that associates the first key unlocking information with the identification information of the electric lock 30 that can be unlocked with the first key unlocking information. The second key unlocking information related information is information that associates the second key unlocking information with the identification information of the electric lock 30 that can be unlocked with the second key unlocking information.

[0027] The operation unit 52 functions as a display unit that displays various information related to the storage box system 10, and also functions as an input unit through which a user or a delivery company can input various information related to the storage box system 10. The operation unit 52 receives the input information and outputs the received input information to the control unit 53. A HUB 80 is connected to the LAN interface 55. The LAN interface 55 enables communication between the controller 31 etc. connected to the HUB 80 and the information processing apparatus 50. A printing apparatus 40 is connected to the USB interface 56.

[0028] The control unit 53 controls the storage box system 10 based on information transmitted from the mobile terminal 70, input information transmitted from the operation unit 52, etc. by executing the control program and communication program stored in the storage unit 51. Specifically, a dedicated phone number available for SMS is preset in the storage box system 10. The control unit 53 transmits and receives SMS messages through the communication device 60 by using the dedicated phone number of the storage box system 10. When the control unit 53 receives an SMS message transmitted from the mobile terminal 70 by the communication device 60, it stores identification information of the sender, such as the phone number of the mobile terminal 70 which is the sender of the SMS message, in the storage unit 51. Hereinafter, the case where the phone number of the sender is applied as an example of the identification information of the sender will be continued. Then, when the courier stores the luggage in the storage box 20 and closes the door 22, the control unit 53 creates a locking request signal for locking the electric lock 30 of the storage box 20 and outputs it from the LAN interface 55 to the controller 31. The control unit 53 generates first key unlocking information and second key unlocking information for unlocking the electric lock 30 of the storage box 20 to be locked. The first key unlocking information and the second key unlocking information include either one or both of letters and numbers, and the number of either one or both of the included letters and numbers is different. For example, the number of either one or both of the letters and numbers included in the first key unlocking information may be less than the number of either one or both of the letters and numbers included in the second key unlocking information. The control unit 53 causes the operation unit 52 to display the generated first key unlocking information, and transmits an SMS message including the generated second key unlocking information to the phone number of the recipient of the luggage stored in the storage unit 51.

[0029] As a result, the first user, who is a delivery company that stores packages, can refer to the first key unlocking information displayed on the operation unit 52. By inputting the first key unlocking information displayed on the operation unit 52 into the operation unit 52, the first user can unlock the electric lock 30 of the storage box 20 and open the door 22. The electric lock 30 can be unlocked by the first key unlocking information while the second key unlocking information remains in an effective state. In addition, the second user, who is the recipient of the package, receives the SMS message sent by the information processing device 50 using his / her own mobile terminal 70. By inputting the second key unlocking information included in the SMS message into the operation unit 52, the second user can unlock the electric lock 30 of the storage box 20, open the door 22, and take out the stored package.

[0030] Next, the specific procedure of the process executed by the control unit 53 will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the storage box system 10 according to the present embodiment. With reference to FIG. 4, the pre-registration process of the telephone number executed by the control unit 53 when receiving an SMS message via the telephone network TN will be described.

[0031] (Step S1-1) The control unit 53 acquires the code described in the SMS message. (Step S2-1) The control unit 53 reads the registration code stored in advance in the storage unit 51. The registration code is a dedicated code used when registering a telephone number in the storage box system 10. This registration code is notified to the user in advance by the administrator or the like of the storage box system 10. When registering the telephone number of the mobile terminal 70 in the storage box system 10, the user describes the notified registration code in the text of the SMS message.

[0032] (Step S3-1) The control unit 53 determines whether the code described in the text of the SMS message matches the registration code read from the storage unit 51. If the code and the registration code do not match, the control unit 53 ends the series of processes. That is, when the code and the registration code do not match, the control unit 53 does not store the phone number of the sender of the SMS message in the storage unit 51. (Step S4-1) When the code and the registration code match, the control unit 53 stores the phone number of the sender of the SMS message in the storage unit 51 and then ends the series of processes.

[0033] By executing the above-described processes by the control unit 53, the user can automatically register the phone number of his / her mobile terminal 70 in the storage box system 10 by sending an SMS message including a pre-known registration code to the dedicated phone number of the storage box system 10. Once the phone number of the mobile terminal 70 is registered in the storage box system 10, the user and the delivery company can use the storage box system 10.

[0034] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the storage box system 10 according to the present embodiment. With reference to FIG. 5, the processes executed by the control unit 53 when a first user who is a delivery company stores luggage in the storage box 20 will be described. (Step S1-2) The control unit 53 displays a service selection screen on the operation unit 52. FIG. 6A is a diagram showing an example of the service selection screen displayed by the information processing apparatus 50 according to the present embodiment. Icons corresponding to services such as "deposit" of luggage and "retrieval" of luggage are displayed on the service selection screen shown in FIG. 6A. The first user and the second user can use the service corresponding to the selected icon by selecting any icon on the service selection screen shown in FIG. 6A. Here, the case where the first user taps the icon corresponding to "deposit" will be continued. Returning to FIG. 5, the description will be continued.

[0035] (Step S2-2) The control unit 53 displays a delivery company selection screen on the operation unit 52. FIG. 6B is a diagram showing an example of the delivery company selection screen displayed by the information processing apparatus 50 according to the present embodiment. On the delivery company selection screen shown in FIG. 6B, icons corresponding to delivery companies such as "Mr. AAA", "Mr. BBB", "Mr. CCC", etc. and an icon for directly inputting a delivery company such as "Direct input" are displayed together with information instructing to select the information of the depositor. The first user can input a delivery company to the operation unit 52 by selecting any icon on the delivery company selection screen shown in FIG. 6B. Here, the case where the first user taps the icon corresponding to "Mr. BBB" will be continued with the explanation. Returning to FIG. 5, the explanation will be continued.

[0036] (Step S3-2) The control unit 53 displays a phone number input screen on the operation unit 52. FIG. 6C is a diagram showing an example of the phone number input screen displayed by the information processing apparatus 50 according to the present embodiment. On the phone number input screen shown in FIG. 6C, buttons corresponding to numerical values such as "0" to "9" are displayed together with information instructing to input the phone number of the recipient. Further, the phone number input screen includes a "Top screen" button for returning to the top screen and an "OK" button. The first user inputs a phone number by pressing the button corresponding to the numerical value on the phone number input screen shown in FIG. 6C, and presses the OK button after the input. Returning to FIG. 5, the explanation will be continued.

[0037] (Step S4-2) The control unit 53 acquires a phone number from the operation unit 52. The control unit 53 reads the registered phone number registered in the storage unit 51. (Step S5-2) The control unit 53 determines whether there is a match between the acquired phone number and the read registered phone number. (Step S6-2) When there is no registered phone number that matches the obtained phone number read by the control unit 53, the control unit 53 causes the operation unit 52 to display an abnormal screen. On the abnormal screen, information indicating that the input phone number is not registered and that it cannot be delivered to the destination of the unregistered phone number is displayed. Thereafter, the process returns to step S3-2.

[0038] (Step S7-2) When there is a registered phone number that matches the obtained phone number read by the control unit 53, the control unit 53 causes the operation unit 52 to display a size selection screen. FIG. 6D is a diagram showing an example of the size selection screen displayed by the information processing apparatus 50 according to the present embodiment. Buttons corresponding to the sizes of luggage such as "SS" to "XL" are displayed on the size selection screen shown in FIG. 6D. The first user presses one of the buttons on the size selection screen shown in FIG. 6D. The control unit 53 acquires information indicating the size of the luggage corresponding to the button pressed by the first user from the operation unit 52. Returning to FIG. 5, the description continues.

[0039] (Step S8-2) The control unit 53 causes the operation unit 52 to display a confirmation screen. FIG. 6E is a diagram showing an example of the confirmation screen displayed by the information processing apparatus 50 according to the present embodiment. Information prompting confirmation of the deposited luggage such as "The door cannot be opened again after closing. Are you sure there is no mistake?", the name of the depositor, and the destination phone number are displayed on the confirmation screen shown in FIG. 6E. Further, a "Return" button and an "Open" button are displayed on the confirmation screen. The first user presses one of the buttons on the confirmation screen shown in FIG. 6E. Returning to FIG. 5, the description continues.

[0040] (Step S9-2) The control unit 53 determines whether approval has been obtained by determining whether the "Open" button has been pressed on the confirmation screen displayed on the operation unit 52. If it is determined that approval has not been obtained because the Open button has not been pressed even after a predetermined time has elapsed on the confirmation screen, the process ends. (Step S10-2) When the control unit 53 determines that it has been approved because the "Open" button has been pressed on the confirmation screen, based on the information indicating the size of the acquired luggage, it selects an empty storage box 20 among the storage boxes 20 of a size capable of storing the luggage. The control unit 53 acquires the identification information of the electric lock 30 associated with the selected storage box 20 from the storage box - electric lock related information. The control unit 53 creates an unlock request signal including the acquired identification information of the electric lock 30 and transmits it from the LAN interface 313 to the controller 31.

[0041] (Step S11 - 2) The control unit 53 displays a storage box instruction screen on the operation unit 52 that displays the selected storage box differently from other storage boxes. FIG. 6F is a diagram showing an example of the storage box instruction screen displayed by the information processing apparatus 50 according to the present embodiment. In the storage box instruction screen shown in FIG. 6F, a schematic diagram of the storage box system 10 is shown, and among the plurality of storage boxes, the selected storage box is displayed so as to light up. However, in FIG. 6F, the selected storage box is displayed in a color different from the unselected storage boxes. Further, on the storage box instruction screen, information instructing the storage box 20 for depositing, such as "Please put it in the lit storage box" and "Please close the door by pressing the position of the mark '〇' until the melody stops", and a size change button are displayed.

[0042] The first user stores the luggage in the lit storage box 20 on the storage box instruction screen shown in FIG. 6F and presses the position of the mark '〇' displayed on the lit storage box 20. When an operation of pressing the position of the mark '〇' is performed on the storage box instruction screen displayed on the operation unit 52, the control unit 53 acquires the identification information of the electric lock 30 associated with the storage box 20 corresponding to the pressed position of the mark '〇' from the storage box - electric lock related information. The control unit 53 creates a locking request signal including the acquired identification information of the electric lock 30 and transmits it from the LAN interface 313 to the controller 31.

[0043] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the storage box system 10 according to the present embodiment. With reference to FIG. 7, the processing executed by the control unit 53 when a first user who is a delivery company stores a package in the storage box will be continuously described. (Step S1-3) The control unit 53 generates second key unlocking information for unlocking the electric lock 30 corresponding to the identification information of the electric lock 30 included in the locking request signal created in step S11-2.

[0044] (Step S2-3) The control unit 53 associates the generated second key unlocking information with the identification information of the electric lock 30 that can be unlocked with the second key unlocking information and stores it in the electric lock second key unlocking information related information. (Step S3-3) The control unit 53 creates an SMS message including the generated second key unlocking information and transmits it to the phone number of the delivery destination acquired in step S3-2. FIG. 8A is a diagram showing an example of a transmission notification screen displayed by the information processing apparatus 50 according to the present embodiment. The transmission notification screen shown in FIG. 8A includes information for notifying that the SMS message is being transmitted. Returning to FIG. 7, the description will continue.

[0045] (Step S4-3) The control unit 53 determines whether the transmission was successful. For example, when the control unit 53 is notified that the SMS message could not be transmitted, it determines that the transmission has failed, and when it is not notified that the SMS message could not be transmitted even after a predetermined time has elapsed or when it is notified that the transmission of the SMS message has been completed, it determines that the transmission was successful. (Step S5-3) When the control unit 53 determines that the transmission has not been successful, it displays on the operation unit 52 that the transmission has failed. The control unit 53 determines whether to retransmit the SMS message. FIG. 8B is a diagram showing an example of a transmission failure notification screen displayed by the information processing apparatus 50 according to the present embodiment. The transmission failure notification screen shown in FIG. 8B includes information for notifying that the transmission of the SMS message has failed. Further, the transmission failure notification screen includes an "SMS Resend" button for resending the SMS and a completion button for completing without resending the SMS. Returning to FIG. 7, the description continues.

[0046] (Step S6-3) When the completion button is pressed on the transmission failure notification screen displayed on the operation unit 52, the control unit 53 causes the operation unit 52 to display a second key unlocking information notification method selection screen. FIG. 8C is a diagram showing an example of a second key unlocking information notification method selection screen displayed by the information processing apparatus 50 according to the present embodiment. The second key unlocking information notification method selection screen shown in FIG. 8C includes information indicating that no deposit notification has been sent to the second user, information instructing to notify the second user while holding the displayed second key unlocking information, and information instructing to select whether to print the second key unlocking information. Further, the second key unlocking information notification method selection screen includes a "No" (negative) button to be pressed when not printing the second key unlocking information and a "Yes" (positive) button to be pressed when printing the second key unlocking information.

[0047] When the "Yes" (positive) button is pressed by the first user, the control unit 53 acquires an affirmative response from the operation unit 52, creates a print command for printing the second key unlocking information that was to be transmitted by the SMS message, and outputs it from the USB interface 56 to the printing apparatus 40. When the printing cannot be performed, the control unit 53 causes the operation unit 52 to display a print failure screen. FIG. 8D is a diagram showing an example of a print failure screen displayed by the information processing apparatus 50 according to the present embodiment. The print failure screen shown in FIG. 8D includes information indicating that the printing could not be performed and information indicating a contact destination if necessary. Further, the print failure screen includes a "Return" button. Returning to FIG. 7, the description continues.

[0048] (Step S7-3) When the "SMS Resend" button is pressed on the transmission failure notification screen displayed on the operation unit 52, the control unit 53 displays a resend screen on the operation unit 52. An example of the resend screen is the same as an example of the in-transmission notification screen shown in FIG. 8A. Then, the process returns to step S3-3. (Step S8-3) When the transmission is successful in step S4-3, the control unit 53 causes the operation unit 52 to display a transmission success notification screen. FIG. 8E is a diagram showing an example of the transmission success notification screen displayed by the information processing apparatus 50 according to the present embodiment. The transmission success notification screen shown in FIG. 8E includes information indicating that a baggage receipt has been transmitted to the phone number of the recipient. The baggage receipt includes second key unlocking information.

[0049] (Step S9-3) After causing the operation unit 52 to display the transmission success notification screen in step S8-3 or after the process in step S6-3 is completed, the control unit 53 generates first key unlocking information for unlocking the electric lock 30 corresponding to the identification information of the electric lock 30 included in the locking request signal created in step S11-2. The control unit 53 sets an expiration date for the first key unlocking information. For example, the control unit 53 sets an expiration date of a predetermined time for the first key unlocking information. The predetermined time is from 5 minutes to 20 minutes, and may be from 5 minutes to 15 minutes. In the present embodiment, the case where the control unit 53 sets an expiration date of 10 minutes for the first key unlocking information will be continued to be described. The control unit 53 invalidates the first key unlocking information when a predetermined time has elapsed since the first key unlocking information was generated.

[0050] (Step S10-3) The control unit 53 associates the generated first key unlocking information with the identification information of the electric lock 30 that can be unlocked with the first key unlocking information, and stores it in the electric lock first key unlocking information related information. When a predetermined time has elapsed since the control unit 53 generated the first key unlocking information, the control unit 53 deletes the information associating the first key unlocking information with the identification information of the electric lock 30 that can be unlocked with the first key unlocking information from the electric lock first key unlocking information related information, thereby invalidating the first key unlocking information.

[0051] (Step S11-3) The control unit 53 causes the operation unit 52 to display an issuance screen for issuing a deposit receipt. FIG. 8F is a diagram showing an example of the issuance screen displayed by the information processing apparatus 50 according to the present embodiment. The issuance screen shown in FIG. 8F includes information for instructing a selection of whether to issue a deposit receipt and information indicating the printing content on the deposit receipt. The printing content includes information indicating to the first user that luggage has been deposited at XX:YY on □□ day of △△ month of 〇〇〇〇 year to the destination, and the first key unlocking information. Further, the issuance screen includes a "No" (negative) button to be pressed when the deposit receipt is not issued and a "Yes" (positive) button to be pressed when the deposit receipt is issued.

[0052] (Step S12-3) The control unit 53 determines whether issuance has been selected on the issuance screen displayed on the operation unit 52. When the "No" (negative) button is pressed and issuance is not selected, the control unit 53 ends. (Step S13-3) When the "Yes" (affirmative) button is pressed and issuance is selected, the control unit 53 issues a deposit certificate. For example, when the "Yes" (affirmative) button is pressed by the first user, the control unit 53 acquires an affirmative response from the operation unit 52, creates a print command for printing the deposit certificate, and outputs it from the USB interface 56 to the printing device 40. If the control unit 53 fails to print, it causes the operation unit 52 to display a print failure screen. An example of the print failure screen is the same as that in FIG. 8D. If the printing is successful, the control unit 53 causes the operation unit 52 to display an end screen. FIG. 8G is a diagram showing an example of the end screen displayed by the information processing apparatus 50 according to the present embodiment. The end screen shown in FIG. 8G includes information expressing gratitude for using the storage box system 10.

[0053] By executing the above-described processing by the control unit 53, when the first user stores luggage in the storage box 20, the first user can acquire first key unlocking information that can unlock the electric lock 30 of the storage box 20. The first user can unlock the key of the storage box 20 in which the luggage is stored with the first key unlocking information within a predetermined time after the first key unlocking information is generated.

[0054] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the storage box system 10 according to the present embodiment. With reference to FIG. 9, the processing executed by the control unit 53 when the first user, who is a delivery company, unlocks the electric lock 30 of the storage box 20 after the delivery of the luggage is completed will be described. (Step S1-4) The control unit 53 displays a service selection screen on the operation unit 52. FIG. 10A is a diagram showing an example of the service selection screen displayed by the information processing apparatus 50 according to the present embodiment. The service selection screen shown in FIG. 10A is the same as that in FIG. 6A. Here, the description will continue with the case where the first user taps the icon corresponding to "retrieval". Returning to FIG. 9, the description will continue.

[0055] (Step S2-4) The control unit 53 causes the operation unit 52 to display an input screen for key unlocking information. (Step S3-4) The control unit 53 reads the first key unlocking information included in the first key unlocking information related information and the second key unlocking information included in the second key unlocking information related information from the storage unit 51. (Step S4-4) The control unit 53 acquires the key unlocking information input on the input screen of the key unlocking information from the operation unit 52.

[0056] (Step S5-4) The control unit 53 determines whether there is any information in the read second key unlocking information that matches the acquired key unlocking information. (Step S6-4) When there is information in the second key unlocking information that matches the key unlocking information, the control unit 53 causes a confirmation screen to be displayed. FIG. 10B is a diagram showing an example of the confirmation screen displayed by the information processing apparatus 50 according to the present embodiment. On the confirmation screen shown in FIG. 10B, information prompting confirmation of the luggage to be taken out, such as "Are you sure there is no mistake?", the name of the depositor, and the delivery destination telephone number are displayed. Further, a "Back" button and an "Open" button are displayed on the confirmation screen. The second user presses one of the buttons on the confirmation screen shown in FIG. 10B. Return to FIG. 9 and continue the description.

[0057] (Step S7-4) When there is no information in the second key unlocking information that matches the key unlocking information, the control unit 53 determines whether there is any information in the read first key unlocking information that matches the acquired key unlocking information. (Step S8-4) When there is information in the first key unlocking information that matches the key unlocking information, the control unit 53 determines whether the key unlocking information is within the expiration date.

[0058] (Step S9-4) When there is no key unlocking information that matches the key unlocking information in step S7-4 or when the key unlocking information is not within the expiration date in step S7-4, the control unit 53 causes the operation unit 52 to display an abnormal screen. On the abnormal screen, information indicating that there is no storage box that can be unlocked with the input key unlocking information and information indicating that the key unlocking information is outside the expiration date are displayed. Then, the process returns to step S1-4.

[0059] (Step S10-4) When the control unit 53 displays the confirmation screen in step S6-4, it acquires the identification information of the electric lock 30 associated with the key unlocking information from the electric lock second key unlocking information related information. Further, the control unit 53 acquires the identification information of the storage box 20 associated with the acquired identification information of the electric lock 30 from the storage box electric lock related information. Or when it is determined in step S8-4 that the key unlocking information is within the expiration date, the control unit 53 acquires the identification information of the electric lock 30 associated with the key unlocking information from the electric lock first key unlocking information related information. Further, the control unit 53 acquires the identification information of the storage box 20 associated with the acquired identification information of the electric lock 30 from the storage box electric lock related information. The control unit 53 causes the operation unit 52 to display the acquired identification information of the storage box 20.

[0060] (Step S11-4) The control unit 53 creates an unlocking request signal including the identification information of the electric lock 30 associated with the key unlocking information and transmits it from the LAN interface 313 to the controller 31. The controller 31 unlocks the electric lock 30 corresponding to the identification information of the electric lock 30 included in the unlocking request signal. The door 22 of the storage box 20 including the electric lock 30 unlocked by the first user or the second user is opened. The control unit 53 may invalidate the key unlocking information (first key unlocking information, second key unlocking information) by deleting the information associating the key unlocking information (first key unlocking information, second key unlocking information) with the identification information of the electric lock 30 that can be unlocked with the key unlocking information (first key unlocking information, second key unlocking information) from the electric lock first key unlocking information related information or the electric lock second key unlocking information related information.

[0061] (Step S12-4) When the door 22 opened by the first user or the second user is closed, the control unit 53 acquires the identification information of the electric lock 30 associated with the storage box 20 corresponding to the identification information of the storage box 20 displayed on the operation unit 52 from the storage box electric lock related information. The control unit 53 creates a locking request signal including the acquired identification information of the electric lock 30 and transmits it to the controller 31 from the LAN interface 313. The controller 31 locks the electric lock 30 corresponding to the identification information of the electric lock 30 included in the locking request signal.

[0062] By executing the above-described processing by the control unit 53, the first user can unlock the electric lock 30 of the storage box 20 with the first key unlocking information in the state after the delivery of the luggage is completed. When the electric lock 30 of the storage box 20 is unlocked with the first key unlocking information, the state after the delivery is completed is maintained. For this reason, the electronic lock of the storage box can be unlocked while maintaining the state after the delivery person has completed the delivery.

[0063] In the above-described embodiment, the control unit 53 may invalidate the first key unlocking information by counting the number of times the electric lock 30 of the storage box 20 is unlocked with the first key unlocking information and deleting the information associating the first key unlocking information with the identification information of the electric lock 30 that can be unlocked with the first key unlocking information from the electric lock first key unlocking information related information when it is unlocked a predetermined number of times.

[0064] In the above-described embodiment, the control unit 53 may not include the first key unlocking information in the issuance screen and may display a first key unlocking information display screen for displaying the first key unlocking information. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing another example of the operation of the storage box system 10 according to the present embodiment. With reference to FIG. 11, the processing executed by the control unit 53 when the first user, who is a delivery company, stores luggage in the storage box 20 will be described. Steps S1-4 to S10-4 and S13-4 to S14-4 are not described because steps S1-3 to S10-3 in FIG. 7 and steps S12-3 to S13-3 can be applied.

[0065] (Step S11-4) The control unit 53 causes the operation unit 52 to display a first key unlocking information display screen for notifying the first key unlocking information. FIG. 12A is a diagram showing an example of the first key unlocking information display screen displayed by the information processing apparatus 50 according to the present embodiment. The first key unlocking information display screen shown in FIG. 12A includes information indicating that the storage box 20 deposited with the first key unlocking information can be unlocked, and the first key unlocking information. Further, the first key unlocking information display screen includes an OK button. Returning to FIG. 11, the description will be continued.

[0066] (Step S12-4) When the OK button is pressed on the first key unlocking information display screen, the control unit 53 causes the operation unit 52 to display an issuance screen for issuing a receipt. FIG. 12B is a diagram showing another example of the issuance screen displayed by the information processing apparatus 50 according to the present embodiment. The issuance screen shown in FIG. 12B includes information instructing a selection of whether to issue a receipt, and information indicating the printing content on the receipt. The printing content includes information indicating that the first user has deposited luggage to the destination at XX:YY on □□ day of △△ month in 〇〇〇〇 year. Further, the issuance screen includes a "No" (negative) button to be pressed when not issuing a receipt, and a "Yes" (positive) button to be pressed when issuing a receipt.

[0067] According to the storage box system 10 of the present embodiment described above, the operations and effects shown in the following (1) to (9) can be obtained. (1) A storage box system 10 including one or more storage boxes 20, wherein each of the one or more storage boxes 20 includes a housing 21 capable of storing an object, a door 22 enabling the insertion and removal of the object stored in the housing 21, and an electric lock 30 for locking and unlocking the door 22. When the first user stores an object addressed to the second user, the storage box system 10 locks the electric lock 30 of the used storage box when the door of the used storage box into which the first user stores the object is closed, generates first key unlocking information for unlocking the electric lock 30 of the used storage box, and outputs the generated first key unlocking information. The storage box system 10 includes a control unit 53 and an operation unit 52 serving as a reception unit for receiving the first key unlocking information input by the first user. The control unit 53 associates the identification information of the electric lock 30 of the used storage box with the first key unlocking information and stores it in the storage unit 51, acquires the identification information of the electric lock 30 of the used storage box associated with the first key unlocking information received by the reception unit from the storage unit 51, unlocks the electric lock 30 of the used storage box corresponding to the acquired identification information of the electric lock 30 of the used storage box, and invalidates the first key unlocking information when a predetermined time has elapsed since the first key unlocking information was generated.

[0068] By configuring in this way, the storage box system 10 can generate first key unlocking information for unlocking the electric lock 30 of the used storage box for a predetermined time. Therefore, after the first user deposits the luggage into the used storage box, if the user notices a misplacement of the luggage or wants to recheck the luggage deposited in the used storage box, the electric lock of the used storage box can be unlocked.

[0069] (2) In the storage box system 10, when the control unit 53 unlocks the electric lock 30 of the used storage box, the control unit 53 causes the storage unit 51 to delete the information associating the identification information of the electric lock 30 of the used storage box with the first key unlocking information.

[0070] By configuring in this way, when the electric lock 30 of the used storage box is unlocked by the first key unlocking information, the storage box system 10 deletes the information associating the identification information of the electric lock 30 of the used storage box with the first key unlocking information from the storage unit 51, so that the use of the first key unlocking information can be limited to once.

[0071] (3) In the storage box system 10, even if a predetermined time has elapsed after the control unit 53 generates the first key unlocking information, when the information associating the identification information of the electric lock 30 of the used storage box and the first key unlocking information is stored in the storage unit 51, the control unit 53 causes the storage unit 51 to delete the information associating the identification information of the electric lock 30 of the used storage box and the first key unlocking information.

[0072] With this configuration, when a predetermined time has elapsed after the storage box system 10 generates the first key unlocking information, the storage box system 10 deletes the information associating the identification information of the electric lock 30 of the used storage box and the first key unlocking information from the storage unit 51, so that the first key unlocking information can be made valid for a predetermined time.

[0073] (4) In the storage box system 10, when the door of the used storage box selected by the first user is closed, the control unit 53 locks the electric lock 30 of the used storage box, generates second key unlocking information for unlocking the electric lock 30 of the used storage box, outputs the generated second key unlocking information based on the second user identification information of the second user, and associates the identification information of the electric lock 30 of the used storage box and the second key unlocking information and stores them in the storage unit 51. The reception unit receives the second key unlocking information input by the second user. The control unit 53 acquires, from the storage unit 51, the identification information of the electric lock 30 of the storage box 20 associated with the second key unlocking information received by the reception unit, and unlocks the electric lock 30 of the storage box 20 corresponding to the acquired identification information of the electric lock 30 of the storage box 20.

[0074] With this configuration, the storage box system 10 can generate second key unlocking information for the second user to unlock the electric lock 30 of the used storage box. Therefore, the second user can unlock the electric lock 30 of the used storage box to obtain the object stored in the used storage box.

[0075] (5) In the storage box system 10, after generating the second key unlocking information, the control unit 53 generates the first key unlocking information.

[0076] By configuring it in this way, after the storage box system 10 generates the second key unlocking information for the second user to unlock the electric lock 30 of the used storage box, it can generate the first key unlocking information for the first user to unlock the electric lock 30 of the used storage box for storing an object for a predetermined time. Therefore, the first user can know that the first key unlocking information generated after the second key unlocking information is generated is for unlocking the electric lock of the used storage box when the first user notices a mistake in putting in the luggage or wants to recheck the luggage stored in the used storage box.

[0077] (6) In the storage box system 10, the storage box system 10 further includes an operation unit 52 as an input unit. The control unit 53 acquires the second user identification information of the second user input by the first user at the input unit, and when the acquired second user identification information is stored in the storage unit 51 that stores the identification information of the users who can use the storage box system 10, it causes the operation unit 52 as a display unit to display confirmation information for prompting the confirmation of the object to be stored in the used storage box, and opens the door of the used storage box when the first user performs an operation to open the door of the used storage box at the input unit with respect to the confirmation information.

[0078] By configuring it in this way, the storage box system 10 can determine whether the second user who is the destination of the object can use the storage box system 10, and can prompt the first user to confirm the object to be stored in the used storage box when it can be used. Therefore, compared with the case where the confirmation of the object to be stored in the used storage box is not prompted, the error of the object to be stored in the used storage box can be reduced.

[0079] (7) In the storage box system 10, the control unit 53 outputs the second key unlocking information based on the subscriber identification information of the communication service to which the second user subscribes.

[0080] By configuring it in this way, the storage box system 10 can notify the second user of the second key unlocking information based on the subscriber identification information of the communication service to which the second user subscribes, such as SMS. Since the first user can notify the second key unlocking information using the subscriber identification information of the communication service to which the second user subscribes without verbally communicating, the second key unlocking information can be obtained more reliably. The second user can unlock the used storage box with the notified second key unlocking information.

[0081] (8) In the storage box system 10, when the control unit 53 cannot output the second key unlocking information based on the second user identification information, the control unit 53 causes the printing device to print the second key unlocking information.

[0082] By configuring it in this way, since the storage box system 10 can cause the printing device to print the second key unlocking information, even when the second user cannot use SMS, the first user can notify the second key unlocking information by delivering the printed matter on which the second key unlocking information is printed to the second user.

[0083] (9) In the storage box system 10, the first key unlocking information and the second key unlocking information include either one or both of characters and numbers, and the number of either one or both of the included characters and numbers is different.

[0084] By configuring it in this way, it is possible to reduce the likelihood of confusion between the first key unlocking information and the second key unlocking information as compared with the case where the number of either one or both of the characters and numbers included in the first key unlocking information and the second key unlocking information is the same.

[0085] As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and design changes and the like within the scope not departing from the gist of the present invention are also included. For example, a computer program for realizing the functions of each device such as the controller 31 and the information processing device 50 described above may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the computer program recorded on this recording medium may be read into a computer system and executed. Here, the "computer system" may include hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices.

[0086] In addition, the "computer-readable recording medium" refers to a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disk, a ROM, a writable non-volatile memory such as a flash memory, a portable medium such as a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), a storage device such as a hard disk built into a computer system, and the like. Further, the "computer-readable recording medium" also includes a volatile memory (for example, DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory)) inside a computer system that becomes a server or a client when a computer program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line, and that holds the program for a certain period of time.

[0087] Also, the above program may be transmitted from a computer system storing the program in a storage device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium or by a transmission wave in the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" for transmitting the program refers to a medium having a function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet or a communication line (communication line) such as a telephone line. Also, the above program may be for realizing a part of the aforementioned functions. Furthermore, it may be a so-called difference file (difference program) that can realize the aforementioned functions in combination with a program already recorded in a computer system.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0088] 10... Storage box system, 21... Housing, 22... Door, 30... Electric lock, 31... Controller, 40... Printing device, 50... Information processing device, 51... Memory unit, 52... Operation unit, 53... Control unit, 55... LAN interface, 56... USB interface, 60... Communication device, 70... Mobile terminal, 80... HUB, 310... Memory unit, 311... Arithmetic processing unit, 312... Control unit, 313... LAN interface

Claims

1. A storage box system including one or more storage boxes, Each of the one or more storage boxes comprises: A housing capable of storing an object; a door that allows the object stored in the housing to be inserted and removed; An electric lock for locking and unlocking the door; Equipped with The storage box system comprises: a control unit that, when a first user stores an object addressed to a second user, generates first key unlocking information for locking an electric lock of a used storage box among one or more of the storage boxes in which the first user stores the object and unlocking the electric lock of the used storage box when the door of the used storage box is closed, and outputs the generated first key unlocking information; a reception unit that receives first key unlocking information input by the first user; Equipped with The control unit is The identification information of the electric lock of the used storage box and the first key unlocking information are stored in a storage unit in association with each other, Acquires from the memory unit identification information of the electric lock of the used storage box associated with the first key unlocking information accepted by the accepting unit, and unlocks the electric lock of the used storage box corresponding to the acquired identification information of the electric lock of the used storage box; A storage box system that invalidates the first key unlocking information when a predetermined time has elapsed since the first key unlocking information was generated.

2. The storage box system of claim 1, wherein the control unit deletes information associating the identification information of the electric lock of the used storage box with the first key unlocking information from the memory unit when the electric lock of the used storage box is unlocked.

3. The storage box system of claim 2, wherein the control unit deletes from the memory unit information associating the identification information of the electric lock of the used storage box with the first key unlocking information when the information associating the identification information of the electric lock of the used storage box with the first key unlocking information is still stored in the memory unit even after a predetermined time has elapsed since the first key unlocking information was generated.

4. The control unit is When the door of the used storage box selected by the first user is closed, lock an electric lock of the used storage box, generate second key unlocking information for unlocking the electric lock of the used storage box, and output the generated second key unlocking information based on second user identification information of the second user; The identification information of the electric lock of the used storage box and the second key unlocking information are stored in the storage unit in association with each other, The reception unit receives second key unlocking information input by the second user, The control unit obtains from the memory unit identification information of the electric lock of the storage box associated with the second key unlocking information received by the reception unit, and unlocks the electric lock of the storage box corresponding to the obtained identification information of the electric lock of the storage box.

5. The storage box system according to claim 4 , wherein the control unit generates the first key unlocking information after generating the second key unlocking information.

6. The storage box system comprises: Input section Further equipped with The control unit is acquiring second user identification information of a second user inputted to the input unit by a first user, and when the acquired second user identification information is stored in a storage unit that stores identification information of a user who can use the storage box system, displaying confirmation information on a display unit to prompt confirmation of an object to be stored in the storage box to be used; The storage box system according to claim 1 , wherein the door of the used storage box is opened when the first user performs an operation to open the door of the used storage box on the input unit in response to the confirmation information.

7. The storage box system according to claim 4 , wherein the control unit outputs the second key unlocking information based on subscriber identification information of a communication service to which the second user subscribes.

8. The storage box system according to claim 4 , wherein the control unit causes a printing device to print the second key unlocking information when the second key unlocking information cannot be output based on the second user identification information.

9. The storage box system according to claim 4 , wherein the first key unlocking information and the second key unlocking information include either or both of letters and numbers, and the number of either or both of the letters and numbers included is different from each other.

10. A control method executed by a storage box system having one or more storage boxes, comprising: Each of the one or more storage boxes comprises: A housing capable of storing an object; a door that allows the object stored in the housing to be inserted and removed; An electric lock for locking and unlocking the door; Equipped with The storage box system comprises: When a first user stores an object addressed to a second user, when a door of a storage box used by the first user to store the object among the one or more storage boxes is closed, an electric lock of the storage box is locked; Generate first key unlocking information for unlocking the electric lock of the storage box to be used; The identification information of the electric lock of the used storage box and the first key unlocking information are stored in a storage unit in association with each other, Outputting the generated first key unlocking information; accepting first key unlocking information input by the first user; Acquire from the memory unit identification information of the electric lock of the used storage box associated with the received first key unlocking information, and unlock the electric lock of the used storage box that corresponds to the acquired identification information of the electric lock of the used storage box; invalidating the first key unlocking information when a predetermined time has elapsed since the generation of the first key unlocking information; Control methods.

Images