Key and management device

Abstract

To provide a key and a management device which are capable of making the variable number of a key for a variable cylinder easy to understand.SOLUTION: A key of an embodiment is a key for a lock that can change a key which can be used for opening the lock among a plurality of keys having different shapes of a first concave-convex pattern used for opening the lock. The key of the embodiment has a characteristic part in which external features excluding the concave-convex pattern are different for each key having a different shape of the concave-convex pattern. The features may include at least one of the colors of the key head, key cap, and key body of the key, and the shape excluding the concave-convex pattern.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a key and a management device.

Background Art

[0002] A cylinder capable of changing a usable key among a plurality of keys having different patterns is known. The pattern is a concavo-convex pattern used for unlocking the cylinder. Such a cylinder is called, for example, a variable cylinder. Keys for a variable cylinder are each assigned a different number (hereinafter referred to as "variable number") for each key having a different pattern.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] There is a problem that the variable number of a key for a variable cylinder may be difficult to understand.

[0005] The problem to be solved by an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a key and a management device capable of making the variable number of a key for a variable cylinder easy to understand.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The key according to the embodiment is a key for a lock that can change which key among a plurality of keys having different shapes of the first concavo-convex of the concavo-convex pattern used for unlocking the lock can be used for unlocking. The key according to the embodiment includes a feature portion in which the external features excluding the concavo-convex pattern are made different for each key having a different shape of the concavo-convex pattern.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007]

Figure 1

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] Hereinafter, a management system according to several embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the scales of each part in the following drawings may be appropriately changed. Also, each of the drawings used in the following description of the embodiments may show the configuration with some omissions for the purpose of explanation. In addition, in each drawing and this specification, the same reference numerals denote the same elements.

[0009] 〔First Embodiment〕 FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the main configuration of the management system 1 according to the first embodiment and the components included in the management system 1. Note that each component of each device may be built-in or externally attached. The management system 1 is a system for managing the variable numbers of the keys 300. The management system 1 includes, as an example, a key management device 100, a terminal device 200, and the keys 300. Note that the management system 1 may include a part of these.

[0010] The key management device 100 and the terminal device 200 are connected to the network NW. The network NW is typically a communication network including the Internet. The network NW is typically a communication network including a WAN (wide area network). The network NW may be a communication network including a private network such as an intranet. The network NW may be a communication network including a LAN (local area network). Also, the network NW may be a wireless line or a wired line, or a mixture of a wireless line and a wired line. Also, the network NW may be a communication network including a dedicated line or a public mobile phone network.

[0011] The key management device 100 is a device for managing the variable numbers of the keys 300. The key management device 100 is, for example, a server. The key management device 100 may be a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a PC (personal computer). The key management device 100 includes, as an example, a processor 110, a ROM (read-only memory) 120, a RAM (random-access memory) 130, an auxiliary storage device 140, and a communication interface 150. And a bus 160 etc. connect these parts. Note that the key management device 100 is an example of a management device.

[0012] Processor 110 is the central part of a computer that performs processes such as operations and controls necessary for the operation of the key management device 100, and performs various operations and processes. Processor 110 is, for example, a CPU (central processing unit), MPU (micro processing unit), SoC (system on a chip), DSP (digital signal processor), GPU (graphics processing unit), ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), PLD (programmable logic device), or FPGA (field-programmable gate array), etc. Alternatively, processor 110 is a combination of a plurality of these. Further, processor 110 may be a combination of these with a hardware accelerator or the like. Processor 110 controls each part in order to realize various functions of the key management device 100 based on programs such as firmware, system software, and application software stored in ROM 120 or auxiliary storage device 140, etc. Also, processor 110 executes the processes described later based on the program. Note that part or all of the program may be incorporated in the circuit of processor 110.

[0013] ROM 120 and RAM 130 are the main storage devices of a computer centered around processor 110. ROM 120 is a non-volatile memory exclusively used for reading data. ROM 120 stores, for example, firmware among the above programs. Also, ROM 120 stores data used by processor 110 when performing various processes.

[0014] RAM 130 is a memory used for reading and writing data. RAM 130 is used as a work area for storing data temporarily used by processor 110 when performing various processes. RAM 130 is typically a volatile memory.

[0015] The auxiliary storage device 140 is an auxiliary storage device of a computer centered on the processor 110. The auxiliary storage device 140 is, for example, an EEPROM (electric erasable programmable read-only memory), an HDD (hard disk drive), or a flash memory. The auxiliary storage device 140 stores, among the above programs, for example, system software and application software. Further, the auxiliary storage device 140 stores data used by the processor 110 to perform various processes, data generated by the processes in the processor 110, and various setting values. The data stored in the auxiliary storage device 140 includes, as an example, a feature DB (database) 141 and an order receiving DB 142.

[0016] The feature DB 141 is a database that stores and manages the correspondence between the external features of the key 300 and the variable number. The feature DB 141 stores, in association with each other, information indicating the external features of the key 300 (hereinafter referred to as "feature information") and the variable number corresponding to the feature. The external features of the key 300 will be described later.

[0017] The variable number is part of the key number. Therefore, the auxiliary storage device 140 or the feature DB 141 is an example of a storage unit that stores, in association with each other, the external features of the key 300 and at least a part of the key number of the key 300.

[0018] The order receiving DB 142 is a database that stores and manages the order receiving details of the key 300. The order receiving DB 142 stores, for example, order receiving information in association with an order receiving ID. The order receiving ID is unique identification information for each order receiving. The order receiving information is information indicating the content of the order receiving.

[0019] The communication interface 150 is an interface for the key management device 100 to communicate via a network NW or the like.

[0020] The bus 160 includes a control bus, an address bus, a data bus, etc., and transmits signals exchanged among the respective parts of the key management device 100.

[0021] The terminal device 200 is, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a PC, or the like. The terminal device 200 includes, as an example, a processor 210, a ROM 220, a RAM 230, an auxiliary storage device 240, a communication interface 250, a display device 260, and an input device 270. And a bus 280 or the like connects these respective parts.

[0022] The processor 210 is the central part of a computer that performs processes such as operations and controls necessary for the operation of the terminal device 200, and performs various operations and processes. The processor 210 is, for example, a CPU, an MPU, an SoC, a DSP, a GPU, an ASIC, a PLD, or an FPGA, or the like. Alternatively, the processor 210 is a combination of a plurality of these. Also, the processor 210 may be a combination of these with a hardware accelerator or the like. The processor 210 controls each part in order to realize various functions of the terminal device 200 based on programs such as firmware, system software, and application software stored in the ROM 220 or the auxiliary storage device 240 or the like. Also, the processor 210 executes the processes described later based on the program. Note that a part or all of the program may be incorporated in the circuit of the processor 210.

[0023] The ROM 220 and the RAM 230 are the main storage devices of a computer centered on the processor 210. The ROM 220 is a non-volatile memory used exclusively for reading data. The ROM 220 stores, for example, firmware among the above programs. Also, the ROM 220 stores data and the like used when the processor 210 performs various processes.

[0024] RAM 230 is a memory used for reading and writing data. RAM 230 is utilized as a work area for storing data temporarily used by the processor 210 for various processes. RAM 230 is typically a volatile memory.

[0025] The auxiliary storage device 240 is an auxiliary storage device of a computer centered around the processor 210. The auxiliary storage device 240 is, for example, an EEPROM, HDD, or flash memory. The auxiliary storage device 240 stores, among the above programs, for example, system software and application software. Further, the auxiliary storage device 240 stores data used by the processor 210 for various processes, data generated by the processing in the processor 210, and various setting values.

[0026] The communication interface 250 is an interface for the terminal device 200 to communicate via a network NW or the like.

[0027] The display device 260 displays a screen for notifying various information to the operator of the terminal device 200 or the like. The display device 260 is, for example, a display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (electro-luminescence) display.

[0028] The input device 270 receives operations by the operator of the terminal device 200. The input device 270 is, for example, a keyboard, keypad, touch pad, mouse, or controller. Further, the input device 270 may be a device for voice input. Also, as the display device 260 and the input device 270, a touch panel can be used. In this case, the display panel provided in the touch panel functions as the display device 260. And the pointing device by touch input provided in the touch panel functions as the input device 270.

[0029] The bus 280 includes a control bus, an address bus, a data bus, etc., and transmits signals exchanged among the respective parts of the terminal device 200.

[0030] The key 300 is a key for a variable cylinder. A key number is assigned to each of the keys 300. The key number is a different number for each pattern of the key 300. The pattern is a concave-convex pattern used for unlocking the cylinder. The key number may include a property number. The property number is a unique number for each property where the cylinder unlocked by the key 300 is installed. Note that in this case, the property indicates, for example, at least any one of one or more rooms, one or more floors in a building, and one or more buildings. Further, the key number of the key 300 includes a variable number. The variable number indicates the number of the key for the variable cylinder. The variable cylinder is a cylinder capable of changing the usable key among a plurality of keys with different patterns. There are various types of variable cylinders. In one type of variable cylinder, when a key with a variable number of n is used, keys with a variable number less than n cannot be used. Note that n is, for example, an integer of 0 or more or an integer of 1 or more. Also, in another type of variable cylinder, when changing the usable key, a key called a neutral key is used. After using the neutral key, the key used becomes usable, and a key with a different variable number from that key cannot be used.

[0031] Note that the variable cylinder is an example of a lock that can change which key among a plurality of keys with different shapes of concave-convex patterns used for unlocking the lock can be used to unlock it.

[0032] As an example of the key 300, keys 300a to 300h are shown in FIGS. 2 to 9. FIGS. 2 to 9 are diagrams each showing an example of the appearance of the key 300. Keys 300a to 300d include, as an example, a key head 310, a key cap 320, and a key body 330. However, in FIG. 2, the key head 310 of the portion that is not actually visible is shown by a dashed line. Also, in FIGS. 3 to 5, the key head 310 is not shown. Keys 300a to 300d and key 300h are dimple keys. Key 300h is a dimple key in which the key body 330 is cylindrical. Also, keys 300e to 300h include a key head 310 and a key body 330. Keys 300e to 300g are pin tumbler keys.

[0033] The key head 310 is the portion that protrudes outside the cylinder when the key 300 is inserted into the cylinder. The key head 310 is typically integral with the key body 330.

[0034] The key cap 320 is a member that covers the key head 310. The key cap 320 is placed on the key head 310 for purposes such as making it easier to hold the key 300.

[0035] The key body 330 is the portion of the key 300 that is inserted into the cylinder. The key body 330 includes, as an example, a unlocking portion 331.

[0036] The unlocking portion 331 is a concavo-convex pattern used for unlocking the cylinder. In a dimple key such as keys 300a to 300d, it is a plurality of depressions formed in the key body 330. The shape of the opening of the depression is typically circular. In keys 300a to 300d shown in FIGS. 2 to 5, the depression is formed on the surface of the key body 330. The depression may be engraved not only on the surface of the key body 330 but also on at least one of the side surface and the back surface of the key body 330. Here, the surface is the surface of the key body 330 that is shown in the figure, and is the surface on the side with the larger area of the key body. Also, the surface on the back side of the surface is the back surface. The side surface is the surface sandwiched between the surface and the back surface. The unlocking portion 331 is an example of a concavo-convex pattern used for unlocking the lock.

[0037] The key 300 has appearance features that are different for each variable number. The said features are, for example, at least one of the color and shape of the key. However, the shape as an appearance feature that is different for each variable number shall exclude the unlocking part 331. Examples of the appearance features that are different for each variable number will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 9.

[0038] For the key 300a, for example, the color of the key cap 320 is different for each variable number. As an example, the key 300a with a variable number of 0 has a black key cap 320, the key 300a with a variable number of 1 has a red key cap 320, and the key 300a with a variable number of 2 has a yellow key cap 320.

[0039] Also, the key cap 320 may be color-coded with multiple colors. In this case, the combination of multiple colors is different for each variable number. As an example, the key 300a with a variable number of 0 has a key cap 320 with two colors, black and red, the key 300a with a variable number of 1 has a key cap 320 with two colors, red and yellow, the key 300a with a variable number of 2 has a key cap 320 with three colors, blue, green, and black, and the key 300a with a variable number of 3 has a key cap with a single color, white.

[0040] Also, the key caps 320 of two keys 300 with different variable numbers may have the same color but different painting patterns. As an example, the key 300a with a variable number of 0 has a key cap 320 with a two-color stripe of black and red, and the key 300a with a variable number of 1 has a key cap 320 with a two-color cross pattern of black and red.

[0041] The key 300a and the key 300b are, for example, keys 300 with different variable numbers. For the key 300a and the key 300b, the shapes of the key caps 320 are different. The shape of the key cap 320 of the key 300a is a rounded rectangle. The shape of the key cap 320 of the key 300b is a circle.

[0042] The keys 300c and 300d are, for example, keys with different variable numbers. The key caps 320 of the keys 300c and 300d each have a cap identification portion 321 formed thereon. The cap identification portion 321 is a portion that makes the appearance features for each variable number different by at least one of the position, shape, and number of the concavities and convexities. The cap identification portion 321 of the key 300c is a single rectangular notch formed on the side surface of the key cap 320. The cap identification portion 321 of the key 300d is two circular recesses formed on the surface of the key cap 320.

[0043] Also, the keys 300a and 300c are, for example, keys with different variable numbers. The key 300a does not have a cap identification portion 321 formed thereon. The key 300c has a cap identification portion 321 formed thereon. Thus, the keys 300a and 300c have different appearance features depending on the presence or absence of the cap identification portion 321.

[0044] Also, the keys 300a and 300c have a cap character identification portion 322 formed thereon. The cap character identification portion 322 is a character string of one or more characters formed on the key cap 320. Note that numbers and symbols are also a type of character. The method of forming the cap character identification portion 322 is, for example, printing, engraving, laser processing, branding, stamping, or other forming methods.

[0045] The key 300a and the key 300b differ in their external features not only in terms of the shape of the keycap 320 but also depending on the presence or absence of the cap character identification part 322. Also, the key 300a and the key 300c differ in their external features not only in terms of the presence or absence of the cap character identification part 322 but also because the character strings formed as the cap character identification part 322 are different. In the case of the key 300a, the character string formed as the cap character identification part 322 is "1st". In the case of the key 300c, the character string formed as the cap character identification part 322 is "yu♪". The character string formed as the cap character identification part 322 may be a meaningful character string or a meaningless character string. When the character string formed as the cap character identification part 322 is a meaningful character string, it may be a character string indicating the variable number of the key 300 in which the character string is formed. For example, the character string "1st" may indicate that the variable number is 1. The character string formed as the cap character identification part 322 may include a part of the key number of the key 300 in which the character string is formed.

[0046] As described above, in this embodiment, the management system 1 makes the key 300a and the key 300b different in external features by two methods, namely, the shape of the keycap 320 and the presence or absence of the cap character identification part 322. Also, in this embodiment, the management system 1 makes the key 300a and the key 300c different in external features by two methods, namely, the presence or absence of the cap character identification part 322 and the difference in the character string formed as the cap character identification part 322. However, the management system 1 may make two keys 300 with different variable numbers different in external features by one method. Also, the management system 1 may make two keys 300 with different variable numbers different in external features by three or more methods.

[0047] Keys 300e to 300g are, for example, keys 300 with different variable numbers. The key heads 310 of keys 300e and 300f do not have a head identification part 311. The key head 310 of key 300g has a head identification part 311 formed thereon. The head identification part 311 is a part that makes the appearance features for each variable number different by at least any one of the position, shape, and number of concavities and convexities. The key bodies 330 of keys 300e and 300g do not have a body identification part 332. The key body 330 of key 300f has a body identification part 332 formed thereon. The body identification part 332 is a part that makes the appearance features for each variable number different by at least any one of the position, shape, and number of concavities and convexities.

[0048] The body identification part 332 of key 300f is formed in a part different from the unlocking part 331. The body identification part 332 is a single triangular notch formed on the opposite side of the unlocking part 331.

[0049] The head identification part 311 of key 300g is a single semi-circular notch formed at the upper surface end of the key head 310.

[0050] As described above, keys 300e to 300g have different appearance features.

[0051] Even for a key 300 having a columnar key body 330 as shown in FIG. 9, it has different appearance features for each variable number. As an example, key 300h has a head identification part 311 and a head character identification part 312. The head identification part 311 of key 300h is a square printed on the surface of the key head 310. The head character identification part 312 is a character string formed on the key head 310. The method of forming the head character identification part 312 is, for example, printing or engraving. In key 300h, the character string formed as the head character identification part 312 is "RK1". Even for various other shaped keys 300, they have different appearance features for each variable number.

[0052] Examples of different external features for each variable number of the key 300 are further given below. The color of at least one of the key head 310 and the key body 330 may be different.

[0053] For a plurality of keys 300 with different variable numbers, the shapes of the key heads 310 may be different. As an example, two keys 300 with different variable numbers respectively have a square key head 310 and a triangular key head 310.

[0054] A string may be engraved on a part of the key 300 other than the key head 310 and the key cap 320, similar to the head character identification part 312 and the cap character identification part 322. The part other than the key head 310 and the key cap 320 is, for example, the key body 330.

[0055] The key 300 may have a combination of the external features as described above. As an example, a certain key 300 has a red key head 310 with two square convex parts and one triangular notch formed as the cap identification part 321, and one circular recess formed as the body identification part 332.

[0056] From the above, each of the head identification part 311, the head character identification part 312, the cap identification part 321, the cap character identification part 322, and the body identification part 332 is an example of a feature part that makes the external features except the concave and convex pattern of the unlocking part 331 different for keys with different shapes of the concave and convex pattern. Also, at least one of the key head 310, the key cap 320, and the key body 330 is a feature part.

[0057] Hereinafter, the operation of the management system 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11 and the like. Note that the content of the processing in the following operation description is an example, and various processes capable of obtaining the same result can be appropriately used. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the processor 210 of the terminal device 200. The processor 210 executes the processing of FIG. 10 based on a program stored in, for example, the ROM 220 or the auxiliary storage device 240. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the processor 110 of the key management device 100. The processor 110 executes the processing of FIG. 11 based on a program stored in, for example, the ROM 120 or the auxiliary storage device 140.

[0058] In step ST11 of FIG. 10, the processor 210 of the terminal device 200 generates an image corresponding to the input screen. Then, the processor 210 instructs the display device 260 to display the generated image. In response to the display instruction, the display device 260 displays the input screen. Note that the processor 210 may obtain part or all of the data necessary for displaying the input screen from the key management device 100.

[0059] The input screen is a screen for inputting feature information or a variable number. The method of inputting the feature information may be in a form of selection from a list. The input screen may further be able to input information (hereinafter referred to as "specific information") used to specify a key. The specific information is, for example, the part of the key number excluding the variable number. Alternatively, the specific information may be identification information such as a serial number corresponding to the part of the key number excluding the variable number.

[0060] In step ST12, the processor 210 waits for the feature information or the variable number to be input. If the feature information or the variable number is input, the processor 210 determines Yes in step ST12 and proceeds to step ST13.

[0061] In step ST13, the processor 210 generates input information. The input information is information that notifies the content input on the input screen. There are two types of input information: first input information and second input information. When feature information is input on the input screen, the processor 210 generates the first input information. The first input information includes the feature information input on the input screen. The first input information may also include the specific information input on the input screen. When a variable number is input on the input screen, the processor 210 generates the second input information. The second input information includes the variable number input on the input screen. After generating the input information, the processor 210 instructs the communication interface 250 to transmit the input information to the key management device 100. In response to this transmission instruction, the communication interface 250 transmits the input information to the key management device 100. The transmitted input information is received by the communication interface 150 of the key management device 100.

[0062] On the other hand, in step ST21 of FIG. 11, the processor 110 of the key management device 100 waits for the input information to be received by the communication interface 150. If the input information is received, the processor 110 determines Yes in step ST21 and proceeds to step ST22.

[0063] As described above, the processor 110 functions as an example of a first input unit that receives the input of features by receiving the first input information in cooperation with the communication interface 150. Alternatively, the processor 110 functions as an example of a first input unit by controlling the communication interface 150 to receive the first input information. The processor 110 functions as an example of a second input unit that receives the input of at least a part of the key number by receiving the second input information in cooperation with the communication interface 150. Alternatively, the processor 110 functions as an example of a second input unit by controlling the communication interface 150 to receive the second input information.

[0064] In step ST22, the processor 110 determines whether the input information received in step ST21 is the first input information. If the input information received in step ST21 is the first input information, the processor 110 determines Yes in step ST22 and proceeds to step ST23.

[0065] In step ST23, the processor 110 refers to the feature DB141 to identify the variable number corresponding to the feature information. That is, the processor 110 acquires the variable number associated with the feature information. The feature information is the feature information included in the first input information received in step ST21.

[0066] From the above, the processor 110 functions as an example of a first acquisition unit that acquires at least a part of the key number associated with the feature received by the first input unit from the storage unit by performing the process of step ST23.

[0067] In step ST24, the processor 110 generates first output information. The first output information includes the variable number acquired in step ST23. The first output information is information for notifying the variable number. After generating the first output information, the processor 110 instructs the communication interface 150 to transmit the first output information to the terminal device 200. In response to this transmission instruction, the communication interface 150 transmits the first output information to the terminal device 200. The transmitted first output information is received by the communication interface 250 of the terminal device 200.

[0068] In step ST25, the processor 110 may perform an order receiving process for the key 300 specified by the specific information included in the first input information received in step ST21 and the variable number acquired in step ST23. The order receiving process is a process of receiving an order for the key 300. The processor 110 issues a new order receiving ID as the order receiving process. Then, the processor 110 stores order information including the key number of the key in the order receiving DB 142 in association with the order receiving ID. Further, the processor 110 may notify a predetermined notification destination that the key has been ordered. After the process of step ST25, the processor 110 returns to step ST21.

[0069] From the above, by performing the process of step ST25, the processor 110 functions as an example of an order receiving unit that receives an order for a key at least a part of whose key number has been acquired by the first acquisition unit.

[0070] If the input information received in step ST21 is not the first input information, that is, if it is the second input information, the processor 110 determines No in step ST22 and proceeds to step ST25.

[0071] In step ST26, the processor 110 refers to the feature DB 141 and specifies the external features of the key 300 corresponding to the variable number. That is, the processor 110 acquires the feature information associated with the variable number. The variable number is the variable number included in the second input information received in step ST21.

[0072] From the above, by performing the process of step ST26, the processor 110 functions as an example of a second acquisition unit that acquires features associated with at least a part of the key number input by the second input unit from the storage unit.

[0073] In step ST27, the processor 110 generates second output information. The second output information includes the feature information obtained in step ST23. The second output information is information for notifying the feature information. After generating the second output information, the processor 110 instructs the communication interface 150 to transmit the second output information to the terminal device 200. In response to this transmission instruction, the communication interface 150 transmits the second output information to the terminal device 200. The transmitted second output information is received by the communication interface 250 of the terminal device 200. After the process of step ST27, the processor 110 returns to step ST21.

[0074] On the other hand, in step ST14 of FIG. 10, the processor 210 of the terminal device 200 is waiting for the output information to be received by the communication interface 250. Note that there are two types of output information, namely the first output information and the second output information. If the output information is received, the processor 210 determines Yes in step ST14 and proceeds to step ST15.

[0075] In step ST15, the processor 210 generates an image corresponding to the output screen. Then, the processor 210 instructs the display device 260 to display the generated image. In response to the display instruction, the display device 260 displays the output screen.

[0076] The output screen is a screen for displaying the content notified by the output information received in step ST14. When the received output information is the first output information, the output screen displays a variable number included in the first output information. When the received output information is the second output information, the output screen displays the external features of the key 300. The features are the features indicated by the feature information included in the second output information. When the display of the output screen ends, the processor 210 returns to step ST11.

[0077] According to the management system 1 of the first embodiment, the keys 300 have different external features for each variable number. Therefore, a person who sees the key 300 can easily know the variable number of the key 300.

[0078] According to the management system 1 of the first embodiment, the external features of the key 300 include at least one of the colors of at least one of the key head 310, the key cap 320, and the key body 330, and at least one of the shapes excluding the unlocking portion 331. Thereby, a person who sees the key 300 can easily know the external features of the key 300.

[0079] According to the management system 1 of the first embodiment, the key management device 100 stores the external features of the key 300 in association with the variable number. By using this stored content, the management system 1 of the first embodiment can easily identify the variable number from the external features of the key 300. Further, by using this stored content, the management system 1 of the first embodiment can easily identify the external features of the key 300 from the variable number.

[0080] Further, according to the management system 1 of the first embodiment, when the key management device 100 receives an input of the external features of the key 300, it acquires the variable number corresponding to the features. Therefore, by using the key management device 100 of the first embodiment, it becomes easy to identify the variable number from the external features of the key 300.

[0081] Further, according to the management system 1 of the first embodiment, the key management device 100 receives an order for the key 300 corresponding to the acquired variable number. Therefore, by using the key management device 100 of the first embodiment, it becomes easier to order the key 300.

[0082] Further, according to the management system 1 of the first embodiment, when the key management device 100 receives an input of the variable number, it acquires information indicating the external features of the key 300 corresponding to the variable number. Therefore, by using the key management device 100 of the first embodiment, it becomes easy to identify the external features of the key 300 from the variable number.

[0083] The above-described first embodiment can be modified as follows. In the above-described first embodiment, the terminal device 200 transmits the content input on the input screen to the key management device 100. Then, the terminal device 200 receives the feature information or variable number corresponding to the content from the key management device 100. However, the terminal device 200 may be able to obtain the feature information or variable number corresponding to the content independently. In this case, the auxiliary storage device 140 of the terminal device 200 stores, for example, the feature DB 141. Then, after the process of step ST12 in FIG. 10, the processor 210 of the terminal device 200 performs the same process as step ST23 or step ST24 in FIG. 11 to obtain the feature information or variable number corresponding to the content input on the input screen. That is, the processor 210 refers to the feature DB 141 to obtain the variable number associated with the feature information input on the input screen. Alternatively, the processor 210 refers to the feature DB 141 to obtain the feature information associated with the variable number input on the input screen. After the processor 210 obtains the feature information or variable number, it proceeds to step ST15 in FIG. 10. In step ST15, the processor 210 displays an output screen including the obtained feature information or the obtained variable number. The terminal device 200 as described above is an example of a management device. Also, the processor 210 of such a terminal device 200 functions as an example of the first input unit or the second input unit by performing the process of step ST12. The processor 210 functions as an example of the first acquisition unit or the second acquisition unit by referring to the feature DB 141 to obtain a variable number or feature information.

[0084] In the above-described first embodiment, even if the specific information is different, if the variable numbers are the same, the key 300 has the same external appearance features. However, when the specific information is different, the key 300 may have different external appearance features even if the variable numbers are the same. In this case, the feature DB 141 stores and manages the external appearance features for each variable number for each specific information. For example, the feature DB 141 stores in association with each other a key number including a variable number and feature information indicating the external appearance features of the key 300 specified by the key number.

[0085] 〔Second Embodiment〕 In the second embodiment, the user of the key 300 can arbitrarily determine the character string engraved on the key 300.

[0086] Since the configuration of the management system 1 according to the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted.

[0087] The data stored in the auxiliary storage device 140 of the second embodiment includes a feature DB 141, an order receiving DB 142, and a character string DB. Note that the character string DB may be included in the feature DB 141.

[0088] The character string DB is a database that stores and manages the character strings engraved on each key 300. The character string DB stores by associating specific information, a variable number, and a character string. Thereby, if the specific information and the character string are known, the variable number can be specified. As described above, the specific information may be a part of the key number excluding the variable number. Therefore, the character string DB may store by associating the key number and the character string.

[0089] Hereinafter, the operation of the management system 1 according to the second embodiment will be described based on FIGS. 10 to 13 and the like. Note that the content of the processing in the following operation description is an example, and various processes capable of obtaining the same result can be appropriately used. In the second embodiment, in addition to FIGS. 10 and 11, the management system 1 performs the processing shown in FIGS. 12 and 13. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing by the processor 210 of the terminal device 200. The processor 210 executes the processing of FIG. 12 based on a program stored in, for example, the ROM 220 or the auxiliary storage device 240. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing by the processor 110 of the key management device 100. The processor 110 executes the processing of FIG. 13 based on a program stored in, for example, the ROM 120 or the auxiliary storage device 140.

[0090] In step ST31 of FIG. 12, the processor 210 of the terminal device 200 generates an image corresponding to the character input screen. Then, the processor 210 instructs the display device 260 to display the generated image. Upon receiving the display instruction, the display device 260 displays the character input screen.

[0091] The character input screen is a screen for setting corresponding character strings for each key 300 with the same specific information and different variable numbers. As an example, the character input screen includes a specific input area, a character input area, an order area, and a send button.

[0092] The specific input area is an area for inputting specific information.

[0093] The character input area is an area for inputting character strings corresponding to each variable number of the key 300 specified by the specific information input in the specific input area. Note that the character input area may be able to input multiple character strings for one variable number. Also, for each variable number, there may be cases where no corresponding character string is input.

[0094] The order area is an area for inputting the order quantity of each key 300 for each variable number for the key 300 specified by the specific information input in the specific input area.

[0095] The send button is a button for operating when sending the content input on the character input screen.

[0096] In step ST32, the processor 210 waits for the send button to be operated with specific information input in the specific input area. If the send button is operated with specific information input in the specific input area, the processor 210 determines Yes in step ST32 and proceeds to step ST33.

[0097] In step ST33, the processor 210 generates string information. The string information includes specific information, corresponding information, and order quantity information. The specific information is the specific information input in the specific input area. The corresponding information is, for each variable number, the presence or absence of the corresponding character string and information indicating the corresponding character string. The content of the corresponding information is based on the input content of the character string input area. The order quantity information indicates the order quantity for each variable number. The order quantity information is based on the input content of the order area. It includes the specific information input on the character string input screen. The string information is information for notifying this content. After generating the string information, the processor 210 instructs the communication interface 250 to transmit the string information to the key management device 100. Upon receiving this transmission instruction, the communication interface 250 transmits the string information to the key management device 100. The transmitted string information is received by the communication interface 150 of the key management device 100. After the processing of step ST33, the processor 210 returns to step ST31.

[0098] On the other hand, in step ST41 of FIG. 13, the processor 110 of the key management device 100 is waiting for the string information to be received by the communication interface 150. If the string information is received, the processor 110 determines Yes in step ST41 and proceeds to step ST42.

[0099] In step ST42, the processor 110 updates the character string DB based on the specific information and the corresponding information in the character string information received in step ST41. That is, for the variable number having the corresponding character string, the processor 110 associates the specific information included in the character string information, the variable number, and the character string and stores them in the character string DB. For the variable number having a plurality of corresponding character strings, the processor 110 associates the specific information and the variable number for each character string and stores them in the character string DB. For the variable number having no corresponding character string, the processor 110 does not need to store it in the character string DB. However, the processor 110 may associate the information indicating that there is no corresponding character string for the variable number having no corresponding character string, the specific information, and the variable number and store them in the character string DB.

[0100] In step ST43, the processor 110 performs an order receiving process for the key 300 based on the order quantity information in the character string information received in step ST41. As the order receiving process, the processor 110 newly issues an order receiving ID. Then, the processor 110 associates the order information including the key number of the key 300 to be ordered and the order quantity for each key number with the order receiving ID and stores them in the order receiving DB142. After the process of step ST43, the processor 110 returns to step ST41.

[0101] Regarding the processes shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 in the second embodiment, the parts different from the first embodiment will be described.

[0102] The input screen of the second embodiment is a screen for inputting feature information, variable numbers, or specific information and character strings.

[0103] In step ST12 of FIG. 10, the processor 210 of the terminal device 200 waits for the input of feature information, variable numbers, specific information and character strings, or specific information and variable numbers. If the feature information, variable numbers, or specific information and character strings are input, the processor 210 determines Yes in step ST12 and proceeds to step ST13.

[0104] There are four types of input information: the first input information to the fourth input information. In step ST13, when specific information and a character string are input on the input screen, the processor 210 generates the third input information. The third input information includes the specific information and the character string input on the input screen. When specific information and a variable number are input on the input screen, the processor 210 generates the fourth input information. The fourth input information includes the specific information and the variable number input on the input screen.

[0105] In step ST22 of FIG. 11, the processor 110 of the key management device 100 determines whether the input information received in step ST21 is the first input information or the third input information. If the input information received in step ST21 is the first input information or the third input information, the processor 110 determines Yes in step ST22 and proceeds to step ST23.

[0106] In step ST23, when the input information received in step ST21 is the first input information, the processor 110 performs the same processing as in the first embodiment. In step ST23, when the input information received in step ST21 is the third input information, the processor 110 refers to the character string DB to identify the variable number corresponding to the specific information and the character string. That is, the processor 110 acquires the variable number associated with the specific information and the character string. The specific information and the character string are the specific information and the character string included in the third input information received in step ST21.

[0107] In step ST26, the processor 110 performs the same processing as in the first embodiment. However, the variable number used in this processing is the variable number included in the second input information or the fourth input information received in step ST21. Further, when the input information received in step ST21 is the fourth input information, the processor 110 refers to the character string DB to specify the character string corresponding to the specific information and the variable number. That is, the processor 110 acquires the character string associated with the specific information and the variable number. The specific information and the variable number are the specific information and the variable number included in the fourth input information received in step ST21.

[0108] When the input information received in step ST21 is the fourth input information, the second output information includes the character string acquired in step ST23 in addition to the feature information acquired in step ST23. The second output information in this case is information for notifying the feature information and the character string.

[0109] The key 300 of the second embodiment has the same effect as that of the first embodiment. The key management device 100 of the second embodiment has the same effect as that of the first embodiment.

[0110] Also, according to the management system 1 of the second embodiment, the key 300 forms a character string corresponding to the variable number set by the user. Therefore, the user can easily know the variable number of the key 300 by looking at the character string.

[0111] Also, according to the management system 1 of the second embodiment, the key management device 100 stores in association with each other the character string and the specific information, which are the external features of the key 300, and the variable number. By using this stored content, the management system 1 of the second embodiment can easily specify the variable number from the character string and the specific information. Also, by using this stored content, the management system 1 of the second embodiment can easily specify the character string, which is the external feature of the key 300, from the variable number and the specific information.

[0112] The above-described second embodiment can be modified as follows. For keys 300 with the same specific information but different variable numbers, the management system 1 may be configured such that the corresponding character strings are not the same. For example, when the same character string is input in multiple locations in the character string input area, the processor 210 of the terminal device 200 may disable the operation of the send button. Alternatively, in such a case, the processor 210 may determine No in step ST32. Alternatively, when there are multiple variable numbers with the same corresponding character string in the corresponding information in the character string information received in step ST41, the processor 110 of the key management device 100 may return an error and not perform the processing after step ST42.

[0113] The above-described embodiments can be modified as follows. Each device in the embodiment may be composed of a plurality of devices.

[0114] The processor 110 and the processor 210 may implement some or all of the processing realized by the program in the above embodiment by the hardware configuration of a circuit.

[0115] The program that realizes the processing of the embodiment is transferred, for example, in a state stored in a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium in the device. However, the device may be transferred in a state where the program is not stored. And the program may be transferred separately and written into the device. The transfer of the program at this time can be realized, for example, by recording it on a removable non-temporary computer-readable storage medium or by downloading via a network such as the Internet or a LAN.

[0116] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, they are shown by way of example and do not limit the scope of the present invention. The embodiments of the present invention can be implemented in various modes without departing from the gist of the present invention. The present disclosure includes the key and the management device described in the following aspects.

[0117] <Aspect 1> A key for a lock that can change which of a plurality of keys with different shapes of concave-convex patterns used for unlocking the lock can be used for unlocking, The key includes a feature part in which the external features excluding the concave-convex pattern are different for each key with a different shape of the concave-convex pattern.

[0118] <Aspect 2> The feature includes at least any one of the colors of at least any one of the key head, key cap, and key body of the key, and at least any one of the shapes excluding the concave-convex pattern. The key according to Aspect 1.

[0119] <Aspect 3> The feature includes a character string formed on the key. The key according to Aspect 1.

[0120] <Aspect 4> A management device that stores in association at least a part of the key numbers with the external features excluding the concave-convex pattern, which are different for each key with a different shape of the concave-convex pattern of a key for a lock that can change which of a plurality of keys with different shapes of concave-convex patterns used for unlocking the lock can be used for unlocking.

[0121] <Aspect 5> A first input unit that receives an input of the feature, The management device according to Aspect 4, further comprising a first acquisition unit that acquires at least a part of the key numbers associated with the feature received by the first input unit from the storage unit.

[0122] <Aspect 6> The management device according to Aspect 5, further comprising an order receiving unit that receives an order for the key for which at least a part of the key numbers has been acquired by the first acquisition unit.

[0123] <Aspect 7> A second input unit that receives an input of at least a part of the key numbers, The management device according to any one of Aspects 4 to 6, further comprising: a second acquisition unit that acquires, from the storage unit, the feature associated with at least a part of the key numbers for which the second input unit has received an input.

Explanation of Signs

[0124] 1 Management system 100 Key management device 110, 210 Processor 120, 220 ROM 130, 230 RAM 140, 240 Auxiliary storage device 141 Feature DB 142 Order receiving DB 150, 250 Communication interface 160, 280 Bus 200 Terminal device 260 Display device 270 Input device 300 Key 310 Key head 311 Head identification unit 312 Head character identification unit 320 Key cap 321 Cap identification unit 322 Cap character identification unit 330 Key body 331 Unlocking unit 332 Body identification unit

Claims

1. A key for a lock that can change which of a plurality of keys with different concave-convex pattern shapes used for unlocking the lock can be used for unlocking, the key comprising a feature portion in which the appearance features excluding the concave-convex pattern are different for each key having a different shape of the concave-convex pattern.

2. The key according to claim 1, wherein the feature includes at least any one of the color of at least any one of the key head, key cap, and key body of the key, and at least any one of the shapes excluding the concave-convex pattern.

3. The key according to claim 1, wherein the feature includes a character string formed on the key.

4. A management device comprising a storage unit that associates and stores at least a part of the key numbers of the keys with the appearance features excluding the concave-convex pattern, which are different for each key having a different shape of the concave-convex pattern, of the keys for a lock that can change which of a plurality of keys with different concave-convex pattern shapes used for unlocking the lock can be used for unlocking.

5. A first input unit that receives an input of the feature, and a first acquisition unit that acquires at least a part of the key number associated with the feature received by the first input unit from the storage unit, the management device according to claim 4 further comprising.

6. The management device according to claim 5, further comprising an order receiving unit that receives an order for the key for which at least a part of the key number has been acquired by the first acquisition unit.

7. A second input unit that receives an input of at least a part of the key number, and a second acquisition unit that acquires the feature associated with at least a part of the key number received by the second input unit from the storage unit, the management device according to claim 4 further comprising.

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