Locker device

Abstract

To provide a locker device that makes it possible to redeposit luggage immediately after having completed operation to deposit luggage, without compelling a user to bear a new use fee.SOLUTION: A locker device 1 comprises: boxes 11, 11a; a door 12 for opening and closing the boxes 11, 11a; a locking device for the door 12; an operation unit 20; and a control device 30 for controlling the locking device in accordance with operation of the operation unit 20. The operation unit 20 includes authentication means 22-25, and the control device 30 locks the locking device in order to keep the door 12 closed at times other than depositing luggage into the boxes 11, 11a and removing luggage therefrom. The operation unit 20 includes a re-open button for indicating that the door 12 be re-opened. When luggage is deposited in the boxes 11, 11a, the door 12 is closed, and the re-open button is operated within 15 minutes after the locking device is locked once, the control device 30 unlocks the locking device on condition that authentication by the authentication means 22 for permitting re-opening of the door 12 is successful, and relocks the locking device when the door 12 is closed thereafter.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The technology disclosed in this specification relates to a locker device that includes a box capable of storing luggage, a door for opening and closing the box, and a locking device for locking the door so that it can be unlocked. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, as this type of technology, for example, the technology described in the following Patent Documents 1 to 3 is known. Patent Documents 1 to 3 describe technology related to normally closed coin lockers in which the door is temporarily locked at all times when the coin locker is not in use.

[0003] Conventional coin lockers were generally normally open, meaning that the doors were unlocked when no luggage was being deposited. This meant that trash could be thrown into the lockers or they could be used as luggage storage without permission, creating hygiene and security problems and forcing installers to deal with the management issues. In contrast, the normally closed coin lockers described in Patent Documents 1 to 3 have doors that are temporarily locked even when no luggage is being deposited, which reduces the management burden.

[0004] In recent years, the mainstream of normally closed coin lockers has been electronically operated locking and unlocking devices, rather than using a physical key. For example, a user can check the number of available lockers on an operation panel installed in the locker device, specify that number, and then pay the usage fee. Patent Documents 1 and 2 describe a cash payment method, while Patent Document 3 describes a payment method using a credit card or other payment method. When the locker device confirms payment of the usage fee in response to this payment operation, the locking device of the specified locker is unlocked, the door opens, and the user can deposit their luggage. When the user deposits their luggage, closes the door, and confirms the operation, the locking device is locked. When depositing luggage in this way, a receipt recording the number of the specified locker is issued to the user for convenience when retrieving the luggage. For example, Patent Documents 1 and 2 describe that when a user deposits luggage, the locker device issues a receipt with a barcode as a copy, and when the user retrieves the luggage, the user holds the issued receipt over a barcode reader to authenticate the user, unlock the locking device of the specified locker, and open the door. Meanwhile, Patent Document 3 describes that instead of a receipt, a two-dimensional code such as a serial number code, a barcode, or a QR code (registered trademark) is used to authenticate the user and unlock the locking device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Utility Model Registration No. 3113126 [Patent Document 2] Utility Model Registration No. 3113263 [Patent Document 3] Utility Model Registration No. 3220448 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] In the normally closed locker devices described in Patent Documents 1 to 3, when a user deposits luggage in a locker and closes the door, the locking device is locked and the door is locked in a closed position. At this time, for example, the user may wish to retrieve luggage that they left in the locker or to deposit other luggage again. In this case, the user must unlock the locking device of the locker where the luggage has already been deposited and reopen the door. In this case, with conventional normally closed locker devices, it is necessary to perform an operation on the operating unit to retrieve the luggage.

[0007] However, with conventional normally-closed locker devices, closing and locking the door again after retrieving luggage requires a new baggage deposit operation, forcing the user to pay a new usage fee. In this case, the locker does not actually store the luggage immediately after depositing it. Therefore, for the convenience of users, there is a need for a locker device that allows the locker door to be temporarily reopened without having to pay a new usage fee.

[0008] This disclosed technology has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a locker device that allows users to re-deposit luggage immediately after completing the luggage deposit operation without forcing them to pay a new usage fee. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In order to achieve the above object, the technology described in claim 1 is a locker device comprising: a box capable of storing luggage; a door for opening and closing the box; a locking device for locking the door so that it can be unlocked; an operation unit for receiving user operations; and a control unit for controlling the locking device in response to the user's operation of the operation unit, wherein the operation unit includes an authentication means for authenticating the user; and the control unit is configured to lock the locking device to keep the door closed except when luggage is deposited in the box or when luggage is removed from the box, the operation unit includes a reopen door button that the user can operate to instruct the control unit to reopen the door, and when the reopen door button is operated within a predetermined time after luggage has been deposited in the box, the door has been closed, and the locking device has been temporarily locked, the control unit unlocks the locking device to allow the door to reopen, provided that the authentication means has authenticated the user, and then relocks the locking device when the door is closed.

[0010] According to the configuration of the above technology, when luggage is deposited in a locker, the door is closed, and the locking device is temporarily locked, the locking device is unlocked to allow the door to be reopened, provided that the reopen door button is operated within a predetermined time and the user is authenticated by the authentication means, and the door is then closed and the locking device is relocked. Therefore, for example, if a user wants to retrieve luggage that they left behind or deposit the luggage again immediately after depositing luggage in the locker, the door can be unlocked to reopen and then relocked after being closed, without paying a usage fee, provided that the reopen door button is operated and the user is authenticated within a predetermined time.

[0011] In order to achieve the above object, the technology described in claim 2 is the technology described in claim 1, wherein the operation unit includes a display unit that displays at least one of a virtual button, an illustration of the locker device, and text, and the control device is configured to sequentially transition the screen of the display unit from a standby screen in response to the user's operation of the virtual button, and the standby screen displays, as virtual buttons, a deposit button that the user operates when depositing luggage in the box, a removal button that the user operates when removing luggage from the box, and a reopen door button, the reopen door button is a button that the user operates not when removing luggage from the box, but particularly when re-loading luggage into the box, and the deposit button and removal button are displayed side by side on the standby screen, and the reopen door button is located adjacent to the upper side of the removal button and is smaller in size than the removal button.

[0012] According to the configuration of the above technology, in addition to the function of the technology described in claim 1, on the standby screen, the deposit button and the removal button are displayed side by side as virtual buttons, and the reopen door button is located adjacent to and above the removal button and is smaller than the removal button. Here, the frequently used deposit button is used to deposit baggage, and the frequently used removal button is used to remove baggage, so their uses are different and there is little risk of making a mistake when operating them. In contrast, the reopen door button, which is used less frequently, is used particularly to reload baggage, and its use is similar to that of the removal button, so there is a risk of making a mistake when operating either the reopen door button or the removal button. In the above configuration, the reopen door button is located adjacent to and above the removal button and is smaller than the removal button, so the removal button is more noticeable and easier to distinguish than the reopen door button, and there is little risk of making a mistake when operating one.

[0013] In order to achieve the above object, the technology described in claim 3 is the technology described in claim 2, in which, when the reopen door button is operated, the control device transitions the display on the display unit from the standby screen to a confirmation screen, and the confirmation screen displays an explanation that "You can reload your luggage within a specified time after depositing it," the elapsed time since depositing it, and a confirmation button as a virtual button.

[0014] According to the configuration of the above technology, in addition to the function of the technology described in claim 2, when the reopen door button is operated, the display on the display unit transitions from the standby screen to a confirmation screen, and the confirmation screen displays the explanation "You can re-load your luggage within a specified time after depositing it" and the elapsed time since depositing it. Therefore, the user can check the content of the selected operation and the remaining time available for operation.

[0015] In order to achieve the above object, the technology described in claim 4 is the technology described in claim 3, A locker device characterized in that, when the confirmation button is operated, the control device transitions the display on the display unit from a confirmation screen to an authentication selection screen, and the authentication selection screen displays the words "reinsert luggage" and multiple authentication buttons for selecting one of multiple authentication methods.

[0016] According to the configuration of the above technology, in addition to the effect of the technology described in claim 3, when the confirmation button is operated, the display on the display unit transitions from the confirmation screen to the authentication selection screen, and the words "re-enter baggage" are displayed on the authentication selection screen, so the user can confirm that they have moved on to an operation such as re-depositing baggage, rather than retrieving baggage. Also, since multiple types of authentication buttons for selecting one of multiple authentication methods are displayed, the user's operation of entering the authentication method is simplified.

[0017] In order to achieve the above object, the technology described in claim 5 is the technology described in claim 4, in which, when one of the authentication buttons is operated, the control device transitions the display on the display unit from an authentication selection screen to an authentication implementation screen, and an illustration or authentication means that prompts the user to operate the authentication means corresponding to the selected authentication method, and an explanation thereof, are displayed on the authentication implementation screen.

[0018] According to the configuration of the above technology, in addition to the effect of the technology described in claim 4, when one of the authentication buttons is operated, the display on the display unit transitions from the authentication selection screen to the authentication implementation screen, and an illustration or authentication means that prompts the user to operate the authentication means corresponding to the selected authentication method and its explanation are displayed on the authentication implementation screen, making it easier for the user to operate the authentication implementation.

[0019] In order to achieve the above object, the technology described in claim 6 is the technology described in claim 5, wherein the door is provided with an operation means that the user operates to request locking of the locking device when the user deposits luggage in the box and closes the door, and the control device, when the authentication means is operated, transitions the display on the display unit from an authentication implementation screen to a box selection screen, and the box selection screen displays the number corresponding to the box in which the user deposited the luggage, a selection button that can be operated to select that number, an explanation urging the user to operate the operation means after depositing the luggage again, and an illustration of the operation of the operation means.

[0020] According to the configuration of the above technology, in addition to the effect of the technology described in claim 5, when the authentication means is operated, the display on the display unit transitions from the authentication implementation screen to a box selection screen, and the box selection screen displays the number corresponding to the box where the user has deposited their luggage and a selection button that can be operated to select that number, making it easy for the user to select the box where they have deposited their luggage. Also, after depositing luggage again (depositing luggage again), the user is prompted with an illustration to operate the operating means, which prevents the user from forgetting to operate the operating means and forgetting to close and lock the door.

[0021] In order to achieve the above object, the technology described in claim 7 is the technology described in claim 6, in which the control device transitions the display unit from the box selection screen to an end screen when the operating means is operated, and the end screen displays the words "Thank you for using our service."

[0022] According to the configuration of the above technology, in addition to the effect of the technology described in claim 6, when the operating means is operated, the display on the display unit transitions from the box selection screen to the end screen, and the words "Thank you for using our service" are displayed on the end screen, thereby notifying the user that the re-deposit of their luggage has been completed.

[0023] In order to achieve the above object, the technology described in claim 8 is such that, in the technology described in claim 1 or 3, the predetermined time for allowing the door to reopen is 15 minutes after the locking device is once locked.

[0024] According to the configuration of the above technology, in addition to the effect of the technology described in claim 1 or 3, 15 minutes can be a necessary and sufficient time for retrieving left-behind luggage and checking in luggage again.

[0025] In order to achieve the above object, the technology described in claim 9 is the technology described in claim 1 or 3, wherein the control device is configured to allow the door to reopen multiple times within a predetermined time period.

[0026] According to the configuration of the above technology, in addition to the effect of the technology described in claim 1 or 3, the door is allowed to reopen multiple times within a specified time period, allowing users to re-deposit their luggage multiple times as needed.

[0027] In order to achieve the above object, the technology described in claim 10 is the technology described in claim 1 or 6, in which the control device unlocks the locking device corresponding to only the box selected by operating the operating unit when there are multiple boxes in which the same user has deposited luggage.

[0028] According to the configuration of the above technology, in addition to the effects of the technology described in claim 1 or 6, if there are multiple boxes in which the same user has deposited luggage, by selecting the corresponding box by operating the operation unit, the locking device corresponding to only the selected box will be unlocked, making it possible to limit the re-deposit of luggage to only that specific box. [Effects of the Invention]

[0029] According to the technology described in claim 1, immediately after completing the baggage deposit operation, the user can deposit the baggage again without having to pay any new usage fees.

[0030] According to the technology described in claim 2, in addition to the effect of the technology described in claim 1, it is possible to reduce the number of times a user makes an incorrect operation selection between the reopen door button and the removal button, and to reduce the need to redo the operation.

[0031] According to the technology described in claim 3, in addition to the effect of the technology described in claim 2, after operating the reopen door button, it is possible to prompt the user to complete the process of re-loading luggage, etc. within a specified time, and it is also possible to reduce the mistake of the user attempting to continue the operation.

[0032] According to the technology described in claim 4, in addition to the effect of the technology described in claim 3, after operating the confirmation button, the user can select an authentication method in a short time.

[0033] According to the technology described in claim 5, in addition to the effect of the technology described in claim 4, it is possible to perform user authentication in a short time after operating the authentication button.

[0034] According to the technology described in claim 6, in addition to the effect of the technology described in claim 5, the user can quickly identify the box to which he or she wants to re-deposit his or her luggage, and after re-depositing the luggage, the door of the box can be locked more reliably.

[0035] According to the technology described in claim 7, in addition to the effect of the technology described in claim 6, the user can confirm that the baggage re-deposit process has been completed.

[0036] According to the technology recited in claim 8, in addition to the effect of the technology recited in claim 1 or 3, it is possible to provide time-effective convenience to users of the locker device.

[0037] According to the technology recited in claim 9, in addition to the effect of the technology recited in claim 1 or 3, it is possible to provide effective convenience to users of the locker device.

[0038] According to the technology recited in claim 10, in addition to the effect of the technology recited in claim 1 or 6, it is possible to provide effective convenience to the user of the locker device without causing any work loss. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0039] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the rocker device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the rocker device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] 10 is a standby screen displayed on the display unit when the reopen door mode is executed in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 10 is a confirmation screen displayed on the display unit when the door reopening mode is implemented in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 10 is an authentication selection screen displayed on the display unit when the door reopening mode is implemented in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is an authentication execution screen displayed on the display unit when the door reopening mode is executed in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 is an authentication execution screen displayed on the display unit when the door reopening mode is executed in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is an authentication execution screen displayed on the display unit when the door reopening mode is executed in the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is a box selection screen displayed on the display unit when the reopen door mode is executed in the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a box selection screen displayed on the display unit when the reopen door mode is executed in the first embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a diagram showing an end screen displayed on the display unit when the reopen door mode is implemented in the first embodiment. [Figure 12] 10 is an authentication selection screen that is displayed on the display unit when a user taps the take-out button by mistake instead of the reopen door button in the first embodiment. [Figure 13] 10 is an authentication execution screen that is displayed on the display unit when a user taps the take-out button by mistake instead of the reopen door button in the first embodiment. [Figure 14] 10 is an authentication execution screen that is displayed on the display unit when a user taps the take-out button by mistake instead of the reopen door button in the first embodiment. [Figure 15] 10 is an authentication execution screen that is displayed on the display unit when a user taps the take-out button by mistake instead of the reopen door button in the first embodiment. [Figure 16] 10 is a box selection screen displayed on the display unit when a baggage removal mode is executed in the first embodiment. [Figure 17] 10 is a take-out confirmation screen that is displayed on the display unit when a user taps the take-out button by mistake instead of the reopen door button in the first embodiment. [Figure 18] 10 is a reinsertion confirmation screen that is displayed on the display unit when a user taps the remove button by mistake instead of the reopen door button in the first embodiment. [Figure 19] 10 is a box unlock screen that is displayed on the display unit when a user taps the take-out button by mistake instead of the reopen door button in the first embodiment. [Figure 20] 10 is a diagram showing an end screen displayed on the display unit when a user taps the take-out button by mistake instead of the reopen door button in the first embodiment. [Figure 21] 10 is a first warning screen that is displayed on the display unit when a user taps the take-out button by mistake instead of the reopen door button according to the first embodiment. [Figure 22]10 is a second warning screen that is displayed on the display unit when a user taps the take-out button by mistake instead of the reopen door button according to the first embodiment. [Figure 23] 10 is a box unlock screen that is displayed on the display unit when a user taps the take-out button by mistake instead of the reopen door button in the first embodiment. [Figure 24] 10 is a diagram showing an end screen displayed on the display unit when a user taps the take-out button by mistake instead of the reopen door button in the first embodiment. [Figure 25] 10 is a standby screen displayed on the display unit when the reopen door mode is executed in the second embodiment. [Figure 26] 10 is a diagram showing a door reopening confirmation screen displayed on the display unit when the door reopening mode is implemented in the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0040] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, a detailed description will be given of an embodiment of a rocker device according to the disclosed technique with reference to the drawings.

[0041] First Embodiment First, the first embodiment will be described.

[0042] [Overview of the locker device configuration] Fig. 1 shows a front view of the locker device 1. Fig. 2 shows a block diagram of the electrical configuration of the locker device 1. The locker device 1 of this embodiment is installed, for example, in a railway station and used for temporarily depositing and storing luggage.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 1, the locker device 1 is composed of a housing 10, a plurality of boxes 11 capable of storing luggage in the housing 10, an operation unit 20 that receives operations from the user to load and unload luggage from the boxes 11, and a control device 30 that controls the opening / closing, locking and unlocking of the boxes 11 and the display of the operation unit 20 in accordance with the user's operation of the operation unit 20.

[0044] [About the box configuration] As shown in FIG. 1, the locker device 1 is equipped with a plurality of boxes 11 capable of storing a user's luggage. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, the locker device 1 is generally equipped with a total of 24 boxes 11 arranged in 2 rows and 12 columns, and the top two columns on the right end of FIG. 1 and the bottom column on the right end include a plurality of small boxes 11a with small openings. Note that the number of boxes 11 and small boxes 11a in this embodiment is merely an example and can be increased or decreased as needed. Furthermore, the locker device 1 of this embodiment is composed of a plurality of boxes 11 and small boxes 11a with different openings as shown in FIG. 1, but it is also possible to configure all of the plurality of boxes with the same opening width.

[0045] A door 12 that can be opened and closed independently for each box 11, 11a is provided at the opening on the front of each box 11, 11a. A box number (0001 to 0031) is assigned to the surface of each door 12 to identify the corresponding box 11, 11a. In this embodiment, the door 12 is a left-hand door that opens to the left side of the box 11, 11a in the figure, but it can also be a right-hand door that opens to the right side of the box 11, 11a in the figure. A locking device 13 (see FIG. 2), which will be described later, is provided inside each box 11, 11a. In this embodiment, a description of the specific configuration of the locking device 13 will be omitted.

[0046] The door 12 of each box 11, 11a is provided with a lever 14 that the user operates to request locking of the locking device 13 when the user deposits luggage in the box 11, 11a and closes the door 12. For convenience, the levers 14 are illustrated only on the doors 12 with the door numbers "0001" and "0002" in FIG. 1, and are not illustrated on the other doors 12. The lever 14 corresponds to an example of the "operating means" of the disclosed technology.

[0047] [Configuration of the control panel] As shown in FIG. 1 , the operation unit 20 includes a camera 21 for recognizing a user, an LCD display unit 22 for exchanging information with the user, a QR code reader 23 for reading data such as a QR code (registered trademark) from the user, a payment terminal 24 capable of reading an IC tag embedded in a cash card, and a printer 26 for printing receipts and other documents as proof of use. Data input from the user can be performed using the QR code reader 23 and the payment terminal 24. The cash card here is, for example, a cash card capable of accepting electronic money payments such as a transportation IC card. The display unit 22, QR code reader 23, and payment terminal 24 of the operation unit 20 correspond to an example of an "authentication means" in this disclosed technology. The display unit 22 is configured to display at least one of a virtual button, an illustration of a locker device, and text, as described below.

[0048] [Control device configuration] The control device 30 is provided inside the operation unit 20 and controls the locking devices 13 of each box 11, 11a in response to a user's operation of the operation unit 20. As shown in FIG. 2, the control device 30 includes a CPU 31 and a memory 32. The memory 32 stores, for example, a deposit program 32a for controlling the deposit of luggage into the boxes 11, 11a and a retrieval program 32b for controlling the retrieval of luggage from the boxes 11, 11a. The control device 30 is electrically connected to the locking devices 13, the lever 14, and the operation unit 20, and controls the locking devices 13 and the screen display of the display unit 22 based on the deposit program 32a or the retrieval program 32b. While only one locking device 13 is shown in FIG. 2 for convenience, in reality, the same number of locking devices 13 as the number of boxes 11, 11a are connected to the control device 30. Furthermore, a communication unit 50 is connected to the control device 30, and the locker device 1 is capable of communicating with a management device (not shown) via the communication unit 50. The management device is a higher-level device than the locker device 1, and is installed within the station premises or at any other location.

[0049] The control device 30 controls the locking device 13 to automatically open and close the doors 12 of the boxes 11, 11a. The locking device 13 of this embodiment normally locks each door 12 in a closed state, and the doors 12 are opened manually, and closed manually or automatically by a spring or the like.

[0050] The locker device 1 of this embodiment is a so-called "normally closed locker device," and the control device 30 is configured to lock the locking device 13 to lock the door 12 in a closed state except when luggage is being deposited in the box 11, 11a or when luggage is being removed from the box 11, 11a.

[0051] [Baggage check-in procedures] Next, the procedure for a user to deposit luggage in the locker device 1 will be explained.

[0052] Among the multiple boxes 11, 11a, when no luggage is stored in one (a state in which a user can deposit luggage), it is considered to be in "standby mode." The boxes 11, 11a in standby mode are in a locked state. At this time, the locking device 13 locks the door 12 of the box 11, 11a in a closed state.

[0053] In standby mode, when a user deposits luggage in the locker 11, 11a, the user first accepts the start of use on the operation unit 20. The control device 30 displays a virtual button for selecting deposit on the display unit 22, and the user starts the acceptance by tapping the virtual button. Here, the virtual button is an illustration displayed on the display unit 22, and is a button that functions electrically when tapped on the screen by the user.

[0054] The control device 30 then displays the usage fee on the display unit 22. After checking the fee, the user enters usage data using the QR code reader 23 and the payment terminal 24 to pay the fee. During this payment, for example, the unique number of the IC tag of the IC card read by the payment terminal 24 is stored in the memory 32, and this data is used for authentication when retrieving the luggage. Once the payment is made, the control device 30 causes the printer 26 to print a receipt as a usage certificate. Note that payment is not limited to using an IC card, and other forms such as credit card payment or QR code payment may be used, or multiple forms may be selectively combined. Furthermore, when payment is made using a method other than an IC card, a code such as a QR code (registered trademark) for unlocking the door may be printed on the receipt, and authentication may be performed by reading the printed code.

[0055] [Procedure for retrieving luggage] Next, the procedure for a user to take out luggage from locker device 1 will be explained.

[0056] To retrieve a package from the locker device 1, the user inputs the necessary data into the operation unit 20. The control device 30 displays a virtual button for selecting retrieval on the display unit 22, and the user taps the virtual button to begin the process. At this time, if the usage fee for one day of the locker device 1 is exceeded, for example, when the locker device 1 is used for two days, the excess fee is deducted by credit card, cashless payment, or the like, and the settlement is completed. After the settlement is completed, the control device 30 unlocks the locking device 13 and opens the door 12 of the box 11, 11a. The user retrieves the package from the box 11, 11a and closes the door 12. At this time, the control device 30 locks the locking device 13 and locks the door 12 of the box 11, 11a in a closed state.

[0057] [Technical features of the rocker device of this embodiment] In order to solve the problems of the conventional normally closed locker devices described above, the normally closed locker device 1 of this embodiment is configured to be able to implement a "reopen door mode" for reopening the door 12, allowing operations such as retrieving luggage left in the box 11, 11a immediately after depositing luggage, or re-depositing luggage into the box 11, 11a free of charge.

[0058] "About the operation of the reopen door mode" In this embodiment, the control device 30 is configured to sequentially transition the screen of the display unit 22 from a predetermined "standby screen" in response to the user's operation of a virtual button. Figures 3 to 11 show transition screens that are displayed on the display unit 22 when this "door reopening mode" is implemented. The control device 30 controls the interactive screen transition on the display unit 22 related to this "door reopening mode" based on a preset deposit program 32a.

[0059] First, when a user faces the display unit 22 of the operation unit 20, the control device 30 displays a "standby screen" as shown in FIG. 3 on the display unit 22. This standby screen displays multiple virtual buttons 60 that can be tapped. The upper section of the standby screen displays a deposit button 61 that the user operates when depositing luggage in the box 11, 11a, a removal button 62 that the user operates when removing luggage from the box 11, 11a, and a reopen door button 63 that the user can operate to instruct the door 12 to reopen. The reopen door button 63 is a button that the user operates not when removing luggage from the box 11, 11a, but particularly when reloading luggage into the box 11, 11a. On the standby screen, the deposit button 61 and the removal button 62 are displayed side by side, and the reopen door button 63 is located adjacent to the upper side of the removal button 62. The width of the reopen door button 63 is approximately the same as that of the removal button 62, but its vertical width is smaller than that of the removal button 62. This size setting makes the removal button 62, which is used to remove luggage more frequently than re-storing luggage, more visible than the reopen door button 63, to prevent mistakes in button operation. Also, in the middle section of the standby screen, a reservation deposit etc. button 64 is displayed for instructing the reservation, collection and shipping of luggage. Furthermore, in the lower section of the standby screen, a company menu button 65 for selecting the luggage handling company, a usage etc. button 66 for instructions on how to use the box and specifying the box size, and a language button 67 for selecting the display language are displayed.

[0060] On this standby screen, the user taps the reopen door button 63 to execute the reopen door mode. In this embodiment, the door 12 can be reopened free of charge within a predetermined time immediately after depositing the baggage. In this embodiment, the predetermined time is set to "within 15 minutes." In addition, in this embodiment, the door 12 is set to be able to be opened multiple times within "within 15 minutes."

[0061] When the reopen door button 63 is tapped, the control device 30 transitions the display on the display unit 22 from the standby screen to the "confirmation screen" shown in FIG. 4. This confirmation screen displays text and a plurality of virtual buttons 60 that can be tapped. The middle section of this confirmation screen displays the explanation "You can re-enter your luggage within 15 minutes of depositing it," along with a small display section 76 that shows the time elapsed since depositing it. The bottom section of this confirmation screen also displays a cancel button 68 for canceling the operation, a confirm button 69 for confirming the operation, and a back button 70 for returning to the previous operation.

[0062] On this confirmation screen, the user taps the confirmation button 69 to confirm "reopen door mode."

[0063] When the confirmation button 69 is tapped, the control device 30 transitions the display on the display unit 22 to the "authentication selection screen" shown in FIG. 5. This authentication selection screen displays text and a plurality of tappable virtual buttons 60 for selecting an authentication method. The upper section of this authentication selection screen displays the text "Re-enter luggage." The middle section of this authentication selection screen displays a plurality of authentication buttons for selecting one of a plurality of authentication methods. That is, the middle section of the authentication selection screen displays, as authentication buttons, an IC card button 71 for selecting use of an IC card, a QR code button 72 for selecting use of a QR code (registered trademark), and a number input button 73 for selecting number input. The lower section of this authentication selection screen displays a cancel button 68, a usage button 74 for instructing instructions on how to use the device, and a language button 67.

[0064] Since the payment method when checking in luggage differs depending on the user, the user taps one of the various buttons 71 to 73 that is appropriate.

[0065] When the IC card button 71 is tapped, the control device 30 transitions the display on the display unit 22 from the authentication selection screen to the "authentication execution screen" shown in FIG. 6. This authentication execution screen displays text, illustrations, and a virtual button 60 that can be tapped. The words "IC card authentication" are displayed in the upper section of this authentication execution screen. In addition, an illustration urging the user to operate the authentication means corresponding to the selected authentication method and an explanatory text are displayed in the middle section of this authentication execution screen. That is, the explanatory text "Please touch your IC card to the payment terminal" and an illustration representing this are displayed in the middle section of the authentication execution screen. In addition, a cancel button 68 and a back button 70 are displayed in the lower section of this authentication execution screen.

[0066] On the other hand, when the QR code button 72 is tapped, the control device 30 transitions the display on the display unit 22 to the "authentication implementation screen" shown in FIG. 7. This authentication implementation screen displays text, illustrations, and a virtual button 60 that can be tapped. The words "QR code authentication" are displayed in the upper section of this authentication implementation screen. The middle section of this authentication implementation screen displays the explanation "Please hold the QR code over the scanner" and an illustration representing this. The lower section of this authentication implementation screen displays a cancel button 68 and a back button 70.

[0067] Furthermore, when the number input button 73 is tapped, the control device 30 transitions the display on the display unit 22 to the "authentication implementation screen" shown in FIG. 8. This authentication implementation screen displays text, illustrations, and virtual buttons 60 that can be tapped. The words "Number authentication" are displayed in the upper section of this authentication implementation screen. The middle section of this authentication implementation screen displays the explanation "Please enter your 6-digit reservation number," a numeric keypad button 75 as an authentication means for inputting a number, a small display section 76 for displaying the input number, and a confirmation button 69. The lower section of this authentication implementation screen displays a cancel button 68 and a back button 70.

[0068] The user performs authentication according to the authentication method corresponding to one of the three authentication execution screens selected above.

[0069] Here, it is assumed that the user has performed "IC card authentication" by following the authentication execution screen shown in FIG. 6, for example. In this case, the control device 30 transitions the display on the display unit 22 from the authentication execution screen to the "box selection screen" shown in FIG. 9. This box selection screen displays text, illustrations, and tappable virtual buttons 60. The upper section of this box selection screen displays a description that reads, "Please select the box into which you would like to re-enter your luggage," along with an illustration of a locker device. The illustration of the locker device displays a number corresponding to the box 11, 11a into which the user has deposited their luggage, and a selection button 80 that can be operated to select that number. In this illustration, the boxes numbered corresponding to each box 11, 11a serve as the selection buttons 80. In addition, a cancel button 68 and a back button 70 are displayed in the lower section of this box selection screen.

[0070] If there are multiple target boxes, the corresponding boxes are displayed in color (e.g., green) in the illustration of the locker device on this box selection screen. For example, in FIG. 9, if there are two target boxes (boxes "0028" and "0029"), the two boxes are displayed in color in the illustration of the locker device (shown with diagonal lines in FIG. 9). The user selects one of the two boxes to unlock by tapping it. If there is only one target box, the control device 30 skips displaying this box selection screen and transitions to displaying the "box selection screen" shown in FIG. 10.

[0071] The box selection screen of FIG. 10 displays text, illustrations, and a tappable virtual button 60. The upper section of this box selection screen displays the explanation "You can open the door," and the middle section of the screen displays the text "Box No. 0028" indicating the target box and an illustration of a locker device similar to that of FIG. 9. In this case, the target box "0028" is displayed in color (e.g., green) in the illustration of the locker device (shown with diagonal lines in FIG. 10). The lower section of this box selection screen displays an explanation urging the user to operate the lever 14 after depositing baggage again, along with an illustration of operating the lever 14. That is, the lower section of this box selection screen displays the explanation "Please lower the lever after depositing baggage again," along with an illustration of operating the lever 14.

[0072] When this box selection screen is displayed, the locking device 13 of the target box 11, 11a is unlocked in the actual locker device 1. The user opens the door 12 of the box 11, 11a, retrieves any luggage or other items left behind from the box 11, 11a, or deposits the luggage again, then closes the door 12 and moves the lever 14 down to the close side.

[0073] When the lever 14 is lowered to the closed side, the control device 30 causes the display unit 22 to display the "closing screen" shown in Fig. 11. In the middle of this closing screen, the explanation "Thank you for using our service" is displayed. Thereafter, the control device 30 returns the display on the display unit 22 to the standby screen shown in Fig. 3.

[0074] The above is a series of explanations regarding the transition screens when the user correctly selects and taps the reopen door button 63 to execute the reopen door mode.

[0075] In contrast, if the user intends to activate the door reopening mode but accidentally taps the take-out button 62 instead of the door reopening button 63 on the standby screen shown in Fig. 3, the screen of the display unit 22 transitions as follows: Figs. 12 to 24 show the transition screens of the display unit 22 in this case.

[0076] That is, the control device 30 transitions the display on the display unit 22 to an "authentication selection screen" shown in FIG. 12. This authentication selection screen displays text and a plurality of virtual buttons 60 that can be tapped to select an authentication method. The upper section of this authentication selection screen displays the text "Remove." Furthermore, the middle section of this authentication selection screen displays a plurality of authentication buttons for selecting one of a plurality of authentication methods. That is, the middle section of the authentication selection screen displays, as authentication buttons, an IC card button 71 for selecting use of an IC card, a QR code button 72 for selecting use of a QR code (registered trademark), and a number input button 73 for selecting number input. Furthermore, the lower section of this authentication selection screen displays a cancel button 68 for canceling the operation, a usage button 74 for instructing instructions on how to use the device, and a language button 67.

[0077] Since the payment method when checking in luggage differs depending on the user, the user taps one of the various buttons 71 to 73 that is appropriate.

[0078] When the IC card button 71 is tapped, the control device 30 transitions the display on the display unit 22 from the authentication selection screen to the "authentication execution screen" shown in FIG. 13. This authentication execution screen displays text, illustrations, and a tappable virtual button 60. The words "IC card authentication" are displayed in the upper section of this authentication execution screen. The middle section of this authentication execution screen displays an illustration encouraging the user to operate the authentication means corresponding to the selected authentication method, along with an explanatory text. That is, the middle section of the authentication execution screen displays the explanatory text "Please touch your IC card to the payment terminal" and an illustration representing this. The lower section of this authentication execution screen displays a cancel button 68 and a back button 70.

[0079] On the other hand, when the QR code button 72 is tapped, the control device 30 transitions the display on the display unit 22 to the "authentication implementation screen" shown in Fig. 14. This authentication implementation screen displays text, illustrations, and a virtual button 60 that can be tapped. The words "QR code authentication" are displayed in the upper section of this authentication implementation screen. The middle section of this authentication implementation screen displays the explanation "Please hold the QR code over the scanner" and an illustration representing this. The lower section of this authentication implementation screen displays a cancel button 68 and a back button 70.

[0080] Furthermore, when the number input button 73 is tapped, the control device 30 transitions the display on the display unit 22 to the "authentication implementation screen" shown in FIG. 15. This authentication implementation screen displays text, illustrations, and virtual buttons 60 that can be tapped. The words "Number authentication" are displayed in the upper section of this authentication implementation screen. The middle section of this authentication implementation screen displays the explanation "Please enter your 6-digit reservation number," a numeric keypad button 75 as an authentication means for inputting a number, a small display section 76 for displaying the input number, and a confirmation button 69. The lower section of this authentication implementation screen displays a cancel button 68 and a back button 70.

[0081] The user performs authentication according to the authentication method corresponding to one of the three authentication execution screens selected above.

[0082] Here, it is assumed that the user performs "IC card authentication" by following the authentication execution screen shown in FIG. 13, for example. In this case, the control device 30 transitions the display on the display unit 22 from the authentication execution screen to the "box selection screen" shown in FIG. 16. This box selection screen displays text, illustrations, and tappable virtual buttons 60. The upper section of this box selection screen displays a description that reads, "Please select the box from which you want to remove your luggage." The middle section of this box selection screen displays an illustration of a locker device and an explanation of the coloring in the illustration. The illustration of the locker device displays a number corresponding to the box 11, 11a where the user has deposited their luggage, and a selection button 80 that can be operated to select that number. In this illustration, boxes numbered corresponding to each box 11, 11a serve as the selection buttons 80. In addition, a cancel button 68 and a back button 70 are displayed in the lower section of this box selection screen.

[0083] When a user authenticates using an IC card, there may be multiple target boxes. In this case, the target boxes are displayed in color (e.g., green or yellow) in the illustration of the locker device on the box selection screen shown in FIG. 16. For example, in FIG. 8, if there are multiple target boxes, the corresponding boxes are displayed in color in the illustration of the locker device (shown with diagonal lines or a grid in FIG. 16). The user selects the colored box they wish to unlock by tapping it. If there is only one target box, the control device 30 skips displaying the box selection screen in FIG. 16.

[0084] On the box selection screen shown in FIG. 16 , if the user taps a colored box that the user wants to unlock and the tap is within 15 minutes of depositing the luggage, the control device 30 transitions the display on the display unit 22 to a “removal confirmation screen” shown in FIG. 17 . This removal confirmation screen displays text and multiple tappable virtual buttons 60. The upper section of this removal confirmation screen displays the text “Removal Confirmation” and an explanatory text stating, “Removal must be within 15 minutes of depositing the luggage. If you want to deposit the luggage again, press “Reload luggage.” If you want to remove the luggage, press “Remove luggage.” In addition, the middle section of this removal confirmation screen displays a “Reload luggage” button 78 to instruct the user to reload the luggage, and a “Remove luggage” button 79 to instruct the user to remove the luggage as is. Furthermore, the lower section of this removal confirmation screen displays a “Cancel” button 68. In this embodiment, this removal confirmation screen is provided assuming that the user accidentally taps the “Remove luggage” button 62 instead of the “Reopen door” button 63 while intending to reload the luggage.

[0085] When the user selectively taps either button 78 or 79 on this removal confirmation screen, the control device 30 causes the display on the display unit 22 to transition to the "re-insertion confirmation screen" shown in Fig. 18 or the "first warning screen" shown in Fig. 21. However, if the package is to be removed again even if it is removed "within 15 minutes," the re-insertion confirmation screen and box unlock screen will not be displayed.

[0086] When the user taps the "reload" button 78 on this removal confirmation screen, the control device 30 transitions the display on the display unit 22 to the "reload confirmation screen" shown in Fig. 18. This reload confirmation screen displays text and a plurality of virtual buttons 60 that can be tapped. In the middle section of this reload confirmation screen, a description stating "You can reload your luggage within 15 minutes of depositing it" is displayed, along with a small display section 76 that shows the time elapsed since depositing it. In addition, a cancel button 68 and a confirm button 69 are displayed in the bottom section of this reload confirmation screen.

[0087] Here, when the user taps the confirmation button 69, the control device 30 transitions the display on the display unit 22 to a "box unlock screen" shown in FIG. 19. This box unlock screen displays text, illustrations, and a tappable virtual button 60. The upper section of this box unlock screen displays a description that reads, "You can open the door." The middle section of the screen displays the text "box number 0028" indicating the target box and an illustration of a locker device. In this case, in the illustration of the locker device, the target box 81 with "0028" flashes in color (e.g., green) (shown with diagonal lines in FIG. 19). The lower section of this box unlock screen displays a description that encourages the user to operate the lever 14 after depositing luggage again, along with an illustration of operating the lever 14. That is, the lower section of this box unlock screen displays a description that reads, "Please lower the lever after depositing luggage again," along with an illustration of operating the lever 14.

[0088] When this box unlock screen is displayed, the control device 30 actually unlocks the locking device 13 of the target box 11, 11a of the locker device 1. The user opens the door 12 of the box 11, 11a, removes the luggage from the box 11, 11a, then closes the door 12 and moves the lever 14 down to the close side.

[0089] When the lever 14 is lowered to the closed side, the control device 30 changes the display on the display unit 22 to the "closing screen" shown in Fig. 20. In the middle of this closing screen, the explanation "Thank you for using our service" is displayed. Thereafter, the control device 30 returns the display on the display unit 22 to the standby screen shown in Fig. 3.

[0090] On the other hand, if the user taps the "Remove as is" button 79 on the removal confirmation screen shown in FIG. 17, the control device 30 transitions the display on the display unit 22 to the "first warning screen" shown in FIG. 21. This first warning screen displays text and virtual buttons 60 that can be tapped. In the middle of this first warning screen, an explanatory message is displayed saying, "If you remove the box, you will no longer be able to use it. Are you sure?" In addition, a confirmation button 69 and a back button 70 are displayed in the bottom section of this first warning screen.

[0091] When the user taps the confirmation button 69 on this first warning screen, the control device 30 transitions the display on the display unit 22 to the "second warning screen" shown in FIG. 22. This second warning screen displays text and virtual buttons 60 that can be tapped. The middle section of this second warning screen displays an explanatory message that reads, "WARNING: If you tap "CONFIRM," the package will be treated as being removed, and we will not be held responsible for any loss of the package. Are you sure?" The bottom section of this second warning screen also displays the confirmation button 69 and a back button 70.

[0092] When the user taps the confirmation button 69 on the second warning screen shown in FIG. 22, the control device 30 causes the display unit 22 to display the "box unlock screen" shown in FIG. 23. This box unlock screen displays text and illustrations that can be tapped. The upper section of this box unlock screen displays the explanatory text "The door can be opened." The middle section of this box unlock screen displays the text "Box No. 0028" indicating the target box 81 and an illustration of a locker device. In this case, in the illustration of the locker device on this box unlock screen, the target box 81 with "0028" flashes in color (for example, green) (shown with diagonal lines in FIG. 21). Furthermore, the lower section of this box unlock screen displays the explanatory text "Please remove the package from the box with the flashing light."

[0093] The blinking box 81 in the illustration of the locker device displayed on the box unlock screen shown in Fig. 23 operates to indicate whether or not there is luggage in the actual box 11, 11a. When this box unlock screen is displayed, when the user operates the removal button 62, the control device 30 controls the locking device 13 to unlock in order to open the door 12 of the box 11, 11a in which the luggage has been deposited, and then lock the locking device 13 when the door 12 is closed.

[0094] Then, when the door 12 of the box 11 from which the user has removed their luggage is locked, the control device 30 transitions the display on the display unit 22 to the "end screen" shown in Fig. 24. In the middle of this end screen, an explanatory message is displayed saying, "Thank you for using our service. We look forward to seeing you again." Thereafter, the control device 30 returns the display on the display unit 22 to the standby screen shown in Fig. 3.

[0095] [About the function and effect of the rocker device] According to the configuration of the locker device 1 of this embodiment described above, in operation of the door reopening mode described above, when the door reopening button 63 is operated within a predetermined time (within 15 minutes in this embodiment) after luggage has been deposited in the box 11, 11a, the door 12 has been closed, and the locking device 13 has been temporarily locked, the control device 30 unlocks the locking device 13 to allow the door 12 to reopen, provided that authentication of the user has been successful by the authentication means of the operation unit 20 (display unit 22, QR code reader 23, and payment terminal 24), and then relocks the locking device 13 when the door 12 is closed.

[0096] According to the above configuration, if the reopen door button 63 is operated within a predetermined time (15 minutes) after luggage is deposited in the locker 11, 11a, the door 12 is closed, and the locking device 13 is temporarily locked, and the reopen door button 63 is operated and the user is authenticated by the authentication means within that predetermined time, the locking device 13 is unlocked to allow the door 12 to reopen, and then the door 12 is closed and the locking device 13 is relocked. Therefore, for example, if a user deposits luggage in the locker 11, 11a and then immediately retrieves luggage left behind in the locker 11, 11a or deposits the luggage again, the door 12 is unlocked and reopened, and the door 12 is re-closed and locked without paying a usage fee, and the reopen door button 63 is operated and the user is authenticated within the predetermined time. Therefore, the user can re-deposit luggage immediately after completing the luggage deposit operation without having to pay a new usage fee.

[0097] According to the configuration of this embodiment, on the standby screen shown in FIG. 3 , the deposit button 61 and the take-out button 62 as virtual buttons 60 are displayed side by side, arranged adjacent to and above the reopen door button 63 and the take-out button 62, and are smaller in size than the take-out button 62. Here, the frequently used deposit button 61 is used to deposit baggage, and the frequently used take-out button 62 is used to take out baggage. Therefore, their uses are different, and there is little risk of making a mistake when operating them. In contrast, the less frequently used reopen door button 63 is used, particularly to reload baggage, and its use is similar to that of the take-out button 62. Therefore, there is a risk of making a mistake when operating either the reopen door button 63 or the take-out button 62. In the above configuration, the reopen door button 63 is arranged adjacent to and above the take-out button 62 and is smaller in size than the take-out button 62. Therefore, the take-out button 62 is more noticeable and easier to distinguish than the reopen door button 63, and there is little risk of making a mistake when operating one. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the number of times the user makes an incorrect selection between the reopen door button 63 and the take-out button 62 and has to redo the operation.

[0098] According to the configuration of this embodiment, when the reopen door button 63 is pressed on the standby screen shown in Fig. 3, the display on the display unit 22 transitions from the standby screen to the confirmation screen shown in Fig. 4, which displays the explanation "You can reload your luggage within a specified time after depositing it" and the elapsed time since depositing it. Therefore, the user can confirm the content of the selected operation and the remaining time available for the operation. Therefore, after pressing the reopen door button 63, the user can be prompted to complete the operation, such as reloading luggage, within the specified time, and the user's mistake of attempting to continue the operation can be reduced.

[0099] According to the configuration of this embodiment, when the confirmation button 69 is pressed on the confirmation screen shown in Fig. 4, the display on the display unit 22 transitions from the confirmation screen to the authentication selection screen shown in Fig. 5, and the words "Re-enter baggage" are displayed on the authentication selection screen, allowing the user to confirm that they have moved on to an operation such as re-depositing baggage, rather than retrieving baggage. Furthermore, multiple authentication buttons 71-73 are displayed for selecting one of multiple authentication methods, simplifying the user's operation of entering the authentication method. Therefore, after pressing the confirmation button 69, the user can select the authentication method in a short amount of time.

[0100] According to the configuration of this embodiment, when one of the authentication buttons 71 to 73 is operated, the display on the display unit 22 transitions from the authentication selection screen shown in Fig. 5 to the authentication implementation screen shown in Fig. 6 to 8, and the authentication implementation screen displays an illustration or authentication means (numeric keypad 75) that prompts the user to operate the authentication means (QR code reader 23, payment terminal 24, etc.) corresponding to the selected authentication method, along with an explanation thereof, making it easier for the user to perform authentication. Therefore, after operating the authentication buttons 71 to 73, the user can be authenticated in a short time.

[0101] According to the configuration of this embodiment, when the authentication means (QR code reader 23, payment terminal 24, etc., and numeric keypad 75) on the authentication execution screen shown in FIGS. 6 to 8 are operated, the display on the display unit 22 transitions from the authentication execution screen to the box selection screen shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. The box selection screen displays the number corresponding to the box 11, 11a in which the user has deposited their luggage and a selection button 80 that can be operated to select that number, making it easy for the user to select the box 11, 11a in which the user has deposited their luggage. Furthermore, the user is prompted with an illustration of the operation of the lever 14 that the user should perform after depositing the luggage again (redepositing the luggage). This prevents the user from forgetting to operate the lever 14 and forgetting to close and lock the door 12. This allows the user to quickly identify the box 11, 11a in which they will redeposit their luggage, and more reliably lock the door 12 of the box 11, 11a after redepositing the luggage.

[0102] According to the configuration of this embodiment, when the lever 14 is operated, the display on the display unit 22 transitions from the box selection screen shown in Figures 9 and 10 to the closing screen shown in Figure 11, and the closing screen displays the message "Thank you for using our service," thereby notifying the user that the re-deposit of their baggage has been completed. This allows the user to confirm that the re-deposit of their baggage has been completed.

[0103] According to the configuration of this embodiment, the predetermined time for allowing the door 12 to reopen is 15 minutes after the locking device 13 is locked. This 15 minutes can be a sufficient time for retrieving forgotten items and re-depositing luggage. This provides effective time convenience for users of the locker device 1.

[0104] According to the configuration of this embodiment, the control device 30 is configured to allow the door 12 to be reopened multiple times within a predetermined time. Therefore, since the door 12 is allowed to be reopened multiple times within a predetermined time, the user can deposit and re-deposit luggage multiple times as needed. This provides effective convenience to the user of the locker device 1 in terms of frequency.

[0105] According to the configuration of this embodiment, when the same user has deposited luggage in multiple lockers 11, 11a, the control device 30 unlocks the locking device 13 corresponding to only the locker 11, 11a selected by operating the operation unit 20. Therefore, when the same user has deposited luggage in multiple lockers 11, 11a, by selecting the appropriate locker 11, 11a by operating the operation unit 20, the locking device 13 corresponding to only the selected locker 11, 11a is unlocked, making it possible to limit re-depositing of luggage to only the specific locker 11, 11a. This provides effective convenience to users of the locker device 1 without wasting work.

[0106] Second Embodiment Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the following description, the same components as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and the description will be omitted, and the differences will be mainly described.

[0107] This embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the content of the transition screen displayed on the display unit 22 when the "door reopening mode" is implemented. That is, the first embodiment is configured to display the door reopening button 63 on the standby screen shown in Fig. 3. In contrast, this embodiment provides another "standby screen" shown in Fig. 25 and a "door reopening confirmation screen" shown in Fig. 26 instead of the standby screen shown in Fig. 3.

[0108] Here, on the standby screen shown in Fig. 25, the deposit button 61 and the take-out button 62 are displayed side by side at the same size, and the door reopening button is not displayed above the take-out button 62. The other virtual buttons 60 are the same as those on the standby screen shown in Fig. 3. Also, on the middle section of the door reopening confirmation screen shown in Fig. 26, the door reopening button 63 and the take-out button 62 are displayed side by side at the same size, and only the cancel button 68 is displayed on the bottom section of the screen.

[0109] According to the configuration of this embodiment, the reopen door button is not displayed on the standby screen, and the reopen door button 63 is displayed on the next reopen door confirmation screen, thereby preventing the user from making an error in operating the button 62 for removing luggage on the standby screen and the reopen door button 63 for reloading luggage, etc., and allowing the user to reconfirm the existence and function of the reopen door button 63 on the next reopen door screen.

[0110] <Another embodiment> The disclosed technology is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and part of the configuration can be appropriately modified and implemented within the scope of the disclosed technology.

[0111] (1) In the above embodiment, the locker device 1 is designed to be used under the assumption that the user who deposits the luggage and the user who retrieves the luggage are the same person. However, it is also possible to designate a case in which the user who deposits the luggage and the user who retrieves the luggage are different people. Specifically, with the recent widespread use of train stations as logistics hubs, it is conceivable that a shipping company that delivers products ordered by a general consumer will be the user who deposits the luggage, and the general consumer who ordered the product will be the user who retrieves the luggage. In this case, for example, a specific shipping company may be allowed to use the locker device 1, and the operation unit 20 may authenticate the shipping company before running the deposit program 32a. Authentication when retrieving luggage may be performed, for example, by transmitting an authentication code such as a QR code (registered trademark) to the general consumer's mobile device, and the code may be authenticated before running the retrieval program 32b.

[0112] (2) In the above embodiment, as an example, the locker device 1 is embodied as being installed in a train station, but this is not limited to this and may also be, for example, a delivery box installed in an apartment building or the like. [Industrial Applicability]

[0113] The disclosed technology can be used, for example, in locker devices installed in train stations. [Explanation of symbols]

[0114] 1. Locker device 11 Box 11a Small Box 12 Doors 13 Locking device 14 Lever (operating means) 20 Control section 22 Display unit (authentication means) 23 QR code reader (authentication method) 24 Payment terminal (authentication means) 30 Control device 63 Reopen door button 72 QR code button (authentication button) 73 Number input button (authentication button) 75 Numeric keypad (authentication method) 80 Select button

Claims

1. A box that can store luggage, a door for opening and closing the box; a locking device for locking the door so that it can be unlocked; an operation unit for receiving operations from a user; a control device that controls the locking device in response to an operation of the operation unit by a user; Equipped with the operation unit includes an authentication means for authenticating the user, In the locker device, the control device is configured to lock the locking device so as to lock the door in a closed state except when the luggage is deposited in the box or when the luggage is removed from the box, The operation unit includes a reopen door button that can be operated by a user to instruct reopening of the door, When the reopen door button is operated within a predetermined time after the luggage is deposited in the box, the door is closed, and the locking device is temporarily locked, the control device unlocks the locking device on the condition that the authentication means has authenticated the user to allow the door to reopen, and then relocks the locking device when the door is closed. A rocker device characterized by:

2. The rocker device according to claim 1, the operation unit includes a display unit that displays at least one of a virtual button, an illustration of the rocker device, and text, the control device is configured to sequentially transition the screen of the display unit from a standby screen in response to an operation of the virtual button by a user; On the standby screen, a deposit button that the user operates when depositing the luggage into the box, a removal button that the user operates when removing the luggage from the box, and the reopen door button are displayed as the virtual buttons, The reopen door button is a button that the user operates not when removing the package from the box, but particularly when re-inserting the package into the box, On the standby screen, the deposit button and the take-out button are displayed side by side, and the reopen door button is disposed adjacent to the upper side of the take-out button and is smaller in size than the take-out button. A rocker device characterized by:

3. The rocker device according to claim 2, When the reopen door button is operated, the control device changes the display of the display unit from the standby screen to a confirmation screen, The confirmation screen displays an explanation that "You can repack your luggage within a certain time after depositing it," the time elapsed since depositing it, and a confirmation button as the virtual button. A rocker device characterized by:

4. The rocker device according to claim 3, When the confirmation button is operated, the control device transitions the display on the display unit from the confirmation screen to an authentication selection screen, The authentication selection screen displays the words "re-enter luggage" and a plurality of authentication buttons for selecting one of a plurality of authentication methods. A rocker device characterized by:

5. The rocker device according to claim 4, the control device, when one of the authentication buttons is operated, transitions the display on the display unit from the authentication selection screen to an authentication implementation screen; The authentication implementation screen displays an illustration or the authentication means corresponding to the selected authentication method, and an explanation thereof, which prompts the user to operate the authentication means. A rocker device characterized by:

6. The rocker device according to claim 5, the door is provided with an operating means that the user operates to request locking of the locking device when the user deposits the luggage in the box and closes the door, the control device, when the authentication means is operated, transitions the display on the display unit from the authentication implementation screen to a box selection screen; The box selection screen displays the number corresponding to the box where the user deposited the baggage, a selection button operable to select the number, an explanation urging the user to operate the operation means after depositing the baggage again, and an illustration of the operation of the operation means. A rocker device characterized by:

7. The rocker device according to claim 6, the control device, when the operation means is operated, causes the display unit to transition from the box selection screen to an end screen; The closing screen will display the message "Thank you for using our service." A rocker device characterized by:

8. The rocker device according to claim 1 or 3, The predetermined time period for allowing the door to reopen is 15 minutes after the locking device is once locked. A rocker device characterized by:

9. The rocker device according to claim 1 or 3, The controller is configured to allow the door to reopen multiple times within the predetermined time period. A rocker device characterized by:

10. The rocker device according to claim 1 or 6, When there are a plurality of boxes in which the same user has deposited the luggage, the control device unlocks the locking device corresponding to only the box selected by operating the operation unit. A rocker device characterized by:

Images