Storage system

Abstract

To provide a storage system that allows wiring defects to be easily checked.SOLUTION: A storage system includes a plurality of storage cabinets, a power supply unit, a control unit, and a storage unit. The power supply unit supplies power to each of the plurality of storage cabinets. Each of the plurality of storage cabinets has a frame, an internal box, a door, an electronic lock, and a light-emitting unit. The internal box is housed within the frame. The door opens and closes relative to the frame or the internal box. The electronic lock locks and unlocks the door. The electronic lock and the light-emitting unit are electrically connected. The light-emitting unit and the control unit are electrically connected. The control unit and the power supply unit are electrically connected. The storage unit stores individual address information corresponding to each storage cabinet. The control unit, upon receipt of a connection confirmation instruction, controls the light-emitting unit corresponding to the individual address information to emit light.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a storage system. [Background technology]

[0002] Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 11-313753 (Patent Document 1) discloses a locker system including multiple locker units. Each of the multiple locker units includes a relay control device and multiple locker boxes. The relay control device is electrically connected to each of the multiple locker boxes. Each of the multiple locker boxes includes an electronic lock. The locker system further includes a central control device. The central control device is electrically connected to each of the relay control devices (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-313753 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the locker system disclosed in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, the electrical connections (wiring) between the components must be made accurately. However, it is not always easy to check for wiring defects.

[0005] The present invention has been made to solve such problems, and its object is to provide a storage system in which wiring defects can be easily checked. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A storage system according to the present invention comprises a plurality of storage cabinets and a power supply unit. The power supply unit supplies power to each of the plurality of storage cabinets. Each of the plurality of storage cabinets includes a frame, an internal box, a door, an electronic lock, and a circuit board. The internal box is housed within the frame. The door opens and closes relative to the frame or the internal box. The electronic lock locks and unlocks the door. The circuit board has a light-emitting unit, at least a portion of which is located within the frame. The electronic lock and the circuit board are electrically connected. The power supply unit and the circuit board are connected directly or indirectly via wiring. The light-emitting unit faces the inner surface of the frame.

[0007] During the assembly process of this storage system, a worker verifies that the light-emitting unit is emitting light normally, thereby confirming that there is no problem with the connection between the power supply unit and the circuit board. In this storage system, the light-emitting unit faces the inner surface of the frame. With this storage system, when the light-emitting unit emits light, the worker can see the light reflected by the inner surface of the frame, allowing the worker to easily confirm that there is no problem with the electrical connection between the power supply unit and the circuit board using light that is not too dazzling.

[0008] In the above storage system, the light-emitting unit may be visible from the outside when the internal box is not housed within the frame, whereas the light-emitting unit may not be visible from the outside when the internal box is housed within the frame.

[0009] With this storage system, the light-emitting unit cannot be seen from the outside when the internal box is housed within the frame, so it is possible to prevent the user from seeing unnecessary light after checking the connection status between the power supply unit and the board. Also, with this storage system, the light-emitting unit cannot be seen from the outside when the internal box is housed within the frame, so it is possible to improve the appearance of the storage system.

[0010] The storage system further includes a control unit that controls the supply of power from the power supply unit to each of the multiple storage cabinets, and a reception unit that receives instructions to unlock the electronic locks.When the reception unit receives an unlock instruction, the control unit supplies power to the electronic lock that is the target of the unlock instruction, and when power is supplied to the electronic lock, an light-emitting unit on a board connected to the electronic lock to which power is supplied may emit light.

[0011] In this storage system, when power is supplied to the electronic lock that is the target of the unlocking command, the light-emitting part of the circuit board connected to that electronic lock lights up. Therefore, by checking whether the light-emitting part of the circuit board connected to the electronic lock that is the target of the unlocking command lights up, the worker can confirm whether the power supply unit and the circuit board are connected properly. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a storage system that allows wiring defects to be easily checked. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating the appearance of a storage system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically showing a storage cabinet. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the storage system. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a database. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the storage system when the switch unit is in an on state. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the storage system when the switch unit is in an off state. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing the assembly procedure of the storage system. [Figure 8] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining a procedure for attaching each component to a frame. [Figure 9]10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining a procedure for connecting a plurality of frames. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating a portion of the front side of the frame after the connection of multiple frames has been completed. [Figure 11] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the procedure for attaching the inner box to the frame. [Figure 12] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the procedure for attaching the door to the frame. [Figure 13] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining groups of light-emitting units that emit light simultaneously. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] An embodiment according to one aspect of the present invention (hereinafter also referred to as "the present embodiment") will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that the same or corresponding parts in the drawings are designated by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated. Furthermore, for ease of understanding, each drawing is drawn schematically with objects appropriately omitted or exaggerated.

[0015] [1. Configuration] <1-1. Overall configuration of the storage system> 1 is a perspective view schematically showing the appearance of a storage system 10 according to the present embodiment. Storage system 10 is installed in, for example, a company, and is configured to store the belongings of multiple employees (users).

[0016] 1, the storage system 10 includes a plurality of storage cabinets 100 and a master box 200. In the storage system 10, the plurality of storage cabinets 100 and the master box 200 are arranged in a matrix (5 rows and 5 columns). In the storage system 10, the master box 200 is arranged in the center, and a plurality of storage cabinets 100 (24 cabinets) are arranged to surround the master box 200.

[0017] Each of the multiple storage cabinets 100 is configured to store a user's belongings and the like inside. Each storage cabinet 100 can be locked and unlocked using an electronic lock. Each storage cabinet 100 is assigned an individual address. The numbers m and n in parentheses in FIG. 1 (m and n are natural numbers) indicate the address assigned to each storage cabinet 100.

[0018] The master box 200 houses, for example, a control unit that controls the entire storage system 10. For example, the control unit in the master box 200 controls the locking and unlocking of each storage cabinet 100. A reception unit 220 is provided on the front of the master box 200. The reception unit 220 is configured to acquire, for example, information for authenticating each user. The reception unit 220 will be described later.

[0019] The storage system 10 can be set to a first mode in which each storage cabinet 100 is unlocked by pushing the door of the storage cabinet 100, and a second mode in which the target storage cabinet 100 is unlocked when user authentication is successful. A method for switching between the first mode and the second mode will be explained later. Note that, hereinafter, "up," "down," "left," "right," "front," and "rear" as seen from the user when facing the reception unit 220 will be referred to as "up," "down," "left," "right," "front," and "rear," respectively.

[0020] <1-2. Mechanical configuration of each storage unit> 2 is a perspective view schematically illustrating the storage cabinet 100. As shown in FIG. 2, the storage cabinet 100 includes a frame 110, an inner box 120, a door 160, an electronic lock 130, and a board 140.

[0021] The frame 110 is made of, for example, metal and has a rectangular shape when viewed from the front and in a plan view. A space penetrating in the front-to-rear direction is formed inside the frame 110. An inner flange portion 116 (FIG. 10) that protrudes toward the inside of the frame 110 is formed at the front end of the frame 110. An internal box 120 is housed inside the frame 110.

[0022] The internal box 120 is made of, for example, metal or resin, and has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. An opening is formed in the front of the internal box 120, and a storage space is formed inside the internal box 120. The rear end of the internal box 120 protrudes from the rear end of the frame 110. An outer flange portion 122 is formed at the front end of the internal box 120.

[0023] The outer flange portion 122 is formed around the entire outer periphery of the front end of the inner box 120. In other words, the outer flange portion 122 protrudes in the up-down and left-right directions from the front end of the inner box 120 toward the outside of the inner box 120. A notch C1, a hole H2, and a hole H3 are formed in the upper edge of the outer flange portion 122, in this order from left to right. The outer flange portion 122 contacts the front end of the frame 110 (the inner flange portion 116).

[0024] The door 160 is, for example, a plate-like member made of metal or resin, and has a rectangular shape when viewed from the front. The door 160 is attached to the frame 110 and the inner box 120 via hinges 151 and 152. The door 160 is configured to open and close relative to the frame 110 and the inner box 120. A locking portion 161 and a protrusion 162 are attached to the inner surface of the door 160.

[0025] Although the example in which the door 160 is attached to the frame 110 and the inner box 120 via the hinge portions 151 and 152 has been shown, the door 160 may be attached to either the frame 110 or the inner box 120 .

[0026] The locking portion 161 is used to lock the door 160. The locking portion 161 protrudes from the inner surface of the door 160. A rod-shaped portion extending in the vertical direction is provided at the tip of the locking portion 161. The locking portion 161 is located at a position where its tip enters the electronic lock 130 when the door 160 is closed. The protrusion 162 is used to detect a push of the door 160 in the first mode described above. The protrusion 162 protrudes from the inner surface of the door 160. The protrusion 162 is located at a position where its tip faces the detection portion 144 (described below) when the door 160 is closed.

[0027] The electronic lock 130 and the circuit board 140 are each disposed in a space formed between the upper inner surface of the frame 110 (hereinafter also referred to as the "upper inner surface") and the upper outer surface of the internal box 120 (hereinafter also referred to as the "upper outer surface"). A detection unit 144, a switch unit 142, and a light-emitting unit 146 are mounted on the upper surface of the circuit board 140. In other words, the light-emitting unit 146 faces the upper inner surface of the frame 110. The reason for this configuration will be explained later.

[0028] In addition, in Figure 2, the light-emitting unit 146 is not limited to facing the upper inner surface of the frame 110, but may also be configured to face any of the inner surface of the left part of the frame 110 (left inner surface), the inner surface of the right part of the frame 110 (right inner surface), or the inner surface of the lower part of the frame 110 (lower inner surface).

[0029] The front end of the electronic lock 130 is located at a position corresponding to the notch C1 and is exposed to the outside. The detection unit 144 is located at a position corresponding to the hole H2 and is exposed to the outside. The switch unit 142 is located at a position corresponding to the hole H3 and is exposed to the outside. On the other hand, the light emitting unit 146 is not exposed to the outside. The reason for this configuration will be explained later. When the door 160 is closed, the electronic lock 130, the detection unit 144 and the switch unit 142 are each covered by the door 160.

[0030] The electronic lock 130 is configured to lock and unlock the door 160. The electronic lock 130 has, for example, a hook 131 (FIG. 10) that engages with the rod-shaped portion of the locking portion 161, and locks and unlocks the door 160 by causing the hook 131 to move back and forth or rotate. That is, the electronic lock 130 can be in a locked state where the hook 131 engages with the rod-shaped portion of the locking portion 161, and an unlocked state where the hook 131 does not engage with the rod-shaped portion of the locking portion 161. The state of the electronic lock 130 is controlled by a control unit 210 (FIG. 3) in the master box 200.

[0031] The detection unit 144 is configured to detect the pushing of the door 160 by the user. The detection unit 144 is configured, for example, by a microswitch or a push button. When the door 160 is closed and the electronic lock 130 is in the locked state, there is a small gap between the door 160 and the internal box 120. Because of this gap, the door 160 can be pushed further inward. When the door 160 is pushed further in, the protrusion 162 of the door 160 pushes the detection unit 144. This pushing causes the detection unit 144 to detect the pushing of the door 160 by the user. When the door 160 is closed and the electronic lock 130 is in the locked state, the detection unit 144 is in the OFF state if the door 160 is not pushed further in, and the detection unit 144 is in the ON state if the door 160 is pushed further in. When the detection unit 144 is in the ON state, the detection unit 144 outputs a detection signal.

[0032] The switch unit 142 is a component for switching between the first mode and the second mode, and is configured, for example, as a slide switch. The switch unit 142 is electrically connected in series with the detection unit 144. When the switch unit 142 is in the ON state (closed state), the storage system 10 is set to the first mode, and a detection signal output from the detection unit 144 is sent to the control unit 210 (FIG. 3) in the master box 200. On the other hand, when the switch unit 142 is in the OFF state (open state), the storage system 10 is set to the second mode, and the detection signal output from the detection unit 144 is blocked.

[0033] The light emitting unit 146 is configured to emit light by receiving an external power supply. The light emitting unit 146 is configured by, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode). The light emitting unit 146 is electrically connected in series with the electronic lock 130.

[0034] The lighting pattern of the light emitting unit 146 will be explained later.

[0035] <1-3. Electrical configuration of the storage system> Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the storage system 10. As shown in Fig. 3, the storage system 10 includes a plurality of storage cabinets 100 and a master box 200. As described above, in each of the plurality of storage cabinets 100, the switch unit 142 and the detection unit 144 are electrically connected in series, and the light emitter 146 and the electronic lock 130 are electrically connected in series. The master box 200 includes a control unit 210, a reception unit 220, a memory unit 230, and a power supply unit 240.

[0036] The control unit 210 includes a calculation processing unit 212, a scanning unit 214, and a switching unit 216. The calculation processing unit 212 is configured to control the entire storage system 10, and is configured by, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The calculation processing unit 212 may also include a predetermined interface (not shown).

[0037] The scanning unit 214 is configured to sequentially switch electrical continuity of the multiple connection points at predetermined time intervals in accordance with the selection signal output by the arithmetic processing unit 212. The scanning unit 214 is configured, for example, by a multiplexer circuit. The arithmetic processing unit 212 and the scanning unit 214 are connected, for example, by a signal line that transmits a selection signal with a number of bits corresponding to the number of connection points. Each connection point included in the scanning unit 214 is electrically connected to the switch unit 142 of the corresponding storage cabinet 100 via wiring W2. The storage system 10 according to this embodiment includes 24 storage cabinets 100 and therefore has 24 wirings W2. Note that the control unit 210 does not necessarily have to include the scanning unit 214. For example, multiple wirings W2 may be directly connected to the interface of the arithmetic processing unit 212.

[0038] The switching unit 216 is configured to electrically connect the connection points in accordance with the selection signal output by the arithmetic processing unit 212. The switching unit 216 is configured, for example, with a plurality of switching elements corresponding to the number of connection points. Each connection point included in the switching unit 216 is electrically connected to the light-emitting unit 146 of the corresponding storage cabinet 100 via a wiring W1. The storage system 10 according to this embodiment includes 24 storage cabinets 100 and therefore has 24 wirings W1. Note that the control unit 210 does not necessarily need to include the switching unit 216. For example, a plurality of wirings W1 may be directly connected to the power supply unit 240. That is, the power supply unit 240 and the board 140 may be directly connected by a plurality of wirings W1.

[0039] The reception unit 220 is configured to receive an instruction to unlock the target storage unit 100 (electronic lock 130) from the user when the storage system 10 is set to the second mode, for example. The reception of the unlock instruction in the second mode is performed, for example, by reading a contactless or contact card, reading biometric information such as a fingerprint or iris, receiving input of information such as a code, or receiving information from the user's smartphone. In response to receiving an unlock instruction from the user, the reception unit 220 outputs an unlock instruction signal (including the acquired information) to the control unit 210. The reception unit 220 may also be configured to receive various operations on the storage system 10, for example, and may be configured by a touch panel or operation buttons, for example.

[0040] The storage unit 230 stores, for example, control programs and various data required for controlling the storage system 10. The storage unit 230 is configured, for example, with a hard disk drive or a solid state drive. The storage unit 230 stores, for example, a database DB1 that manages user information. The database DB1 is used, for example, when the storage system 10 is set to the second mode.

[0041] Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of database DB1. As shown in Fig. 4, database DB1 associates and manages, for example, the number (box number) of a storage unit 100, address information of the storage unit 100, the name of the employee who uses the target storage unit 100, the employee number of the employee who uses the target storage unit 100, and the ID (identifier) ​​of the employee who uses the target storage unit. For example, calculation processing unit 212 of control unit 210 performs user authentication based on the unlock instruction signal and database DB1.

[0042] 3, the power supply unit 240 is configured to supply the power required for the operation of the storage system 10 to each component of the storage system 10. The power supply unit 240 converts, for example, commercial AC power into DC power and supplies the DC power to each component in the storage system 10.

[0043] [2. Storage system operation] As described above, in the storage system 10, turning on the switch unit 142 sets the storage system 10 to the first mode, and turning off the switch unit 142 sets the storage system 10 to the second mode. Below, we will explain the operation of the storage system 10 when it is set to the first mode and when it is set to the second mode.

[0044] <2-1. Operation when the switch is on (first mode)> 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the storage system 10 when the switch unit 142 is in the on state. The process shown in this flowchart is executed by the calculation processing unit 212 in a second cycle while the electrically conductive connection points in the scanning unit 214 are sequentially switched in a first cycle. Note that the first cycle is shorter than the second cycle, and is, for example, a cycle of such length that when a user pushes the door 160 of the storage cabinet 100 to unlock the electronic lock 130, electrical connection is established with all the connection points at least once while the user continues to push.

[0045] 5, the calculation processing unit 212 determines whether or not a detection signal has been received from any of the storage cabinets 100 (detection units 144) (step S100). If it is determined that a detection signal has not been received (NO in step S100), the process returns.

[0046] On the other hand, if it is determined that a detection signal has been received (YES in step S100), the arithmetic processing unit 212 controls the switching unit 216 to supply power to the electronic lock 130 of the storage cabinet 100 that is the sender of the detection signal (step S110). That is, the arithmetic processing unit 212 controls the switching unit 216 to make the connection point corresponding to the storage cabinet 100 that is the sender of the detection signal conductive, and controls the power supply unit 240 to supply power to the electronic lock 130 that is now conductive. As a result, the light emitting unit 146 emits light, and the electronic lock 130 is unlocked.

[0047] The light emitting pattern of the light emitting unit 146 will be explained later.

[0048] <2-2. Operation when the switch is in the off state (second mode)> 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the storage system 10 when the switch unit 142 is in the OFF state. The process shown in this flowchart is executed by the arithmetic processing unit 212 in the third cycle.

[0049] 6, processing unit 212 determines whether or not an unlock instruction signal has been received from reception unit 220 (step S200). If it is determined that an unlock instruction signal has not been received (NO in step S200), the process returns.

[0050] On the other hand, if it is determined that an unlock instruction signal has been received (YES in step S200), the arithmetic processing unit 212 performs user authentication processing based on the information included in the unlock instruction signal (step S210). For example, the arithmetic processing unit 212 refers to the database DB1 stored in the storage unit 230 to identify the address corresponding to the storage unit 100 of the user who issued the unlock instruction.

[0051] Thereafter, the arithmetic processing unit 212 controls the switching unit 216 to supply power to the electronic lock 130 of the storage 100 corresponding to the identified address (step S220). That is, the arithmetic processing unit 212 controls the switching unit 216 to make the connection point corresponding to the identified address conductive, and controls the power supply unit 240 to supply power to the electronic lock 130 that is now conductive. As a result, the light emitting unit 146 emits light, and the electronic lock 130 is unlocked.

[0052] [3. Storage system assembly procedure] 7 is a flowchart showing the procedure for assembling the storage system 10. Each step shown in this flowchart is carried out by an operator.

[0053] The worker prepares the required number of frames 110 (for example, 25 frames) and attaches the electronic lock 130 and the circuit board 140 to each frame 110 (step S300). Note that the frame 110 for the master box 200 is separately fitted with the components required for the master box 200 (such as the control unit 210, reception unit 220, memory unit 230, and power supply unit 240).

[0054] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the procedure for attaching each component to the frame 110. In this figure, the top surface of the frame 110 is positioned downward. As shown in FIG. 8, ribs 113, 114 extending in the front-rear direction are formed at a predetermined interval on the upper inner surface 112 of the frame 110. The front ends of the ribs 113, 114 are connected by a connecting portion 117 extending in the left-right direction. A hole H1 is formed between the connecting portion 117 and the upper inner surface 112. The length of the hole H1 in the left-right direction is longer than the length of the hole H1 in the up-down direction.

[0055] The substrate 140 is fixed with screws to a region between the ribs 113 and 114 on the upper inner surface 112. With the substrate 140 fixed to the upper inner surface 112, the detection unit 144, the switch unit 142, and the light-emitting unit 146 (FIG. 2) each face the upper inner surface 112 and overlap with the hole H1 in a front view. That is, an operator can see the detection unit 144, the switch unit 142, and the light-emitting unit 146 through the hole H1 in a front view. The electronic lock 130 is fixed with screws to a region on the upper inner surface 112 adjacent to the substrate 140 with the rib 113 in between.

[0056] Referring again to FIG. 7, after necessary parts have been attached to each frame 110, the worker connects a plurality of frames 110 together (step S310).

[0057] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the procedure for connecting multiple frames 110. Referring to FIG. 9, a worker connects multiple (e.g., five) frames 110 stacked vertically, for example, by using a connecting plate (not shown). Then, the worker connects multiple (e.g., five) frame rows in the left-right direction, each row being made up of multiple (e.g., five) frames 110 connected vertically. For example, the left-right connection is performed using bolts and nuts. This completes the connection of the multiple frames 110.

[0058] 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating a portion of the front side of the frame 110 after the connection of the multiple frames 110 is completed. As shown in FIG. 10, in the front view, each component on the board 140 is exposed to the outside through the hole H1.

[0059] 7, after completing the connection of the plurality of frames 110, the worker connects the wiring (step S320). For example, the worker electrically connects the scanning unit 214 of the control unit 210 and the switch unit 142 of each storage cabinet 100 with the wiring W2, and electrically connects the switching unit 216 of the control unit 210 and the light-emitting unit 146 of each storage cabinet 100 with the wiring W1.

[0060] Thereafter, the worker checks the wiring connections (step S330). For example, in the storage system 10, a process for checking the connection of the wiring W1 is preprogrammed. For example, when a connection check instruction is received from the worker via the reception unit 220, the calculation processing unit 212 controls the switching unit 216 to sequentially change the conductive connection points at predetermined time intervals, and also controls the power supply unit 240 to supply power to the electronic locks 130 that are in a conductive state. For example, the calculation processing unit 212 performs control so that power is supplied to the electronic locks 130 corresponding to addresses (1,1), (1,2), (1,3), (1,4), (1,5), (2,1), (2,2),... (5,4), (5,5) in this order.

[0061] When this control is performed, if the connection of the wiring W1 is correct, the light-emitting elements 146 corresponding to addresses (1,1), (1,2), (1,3), (1,4), (1,5), (2,1), (2,2), ... (5,4), and (5,5) will emit light in this order. Because each light-emitting element 146 is exposed to the outside through the hole H1, a worker can visually check the light-emitting state and light-emitting order of each light-emitting element 146 to confirm whether the connection of the wiring W1 is correct. In addition, because the light-emitting elements 146 face the upper inner surface 112, the worker can see the light reflected by the upper inner surface 112 of the frame 110 when the light-emitting elements 146 emit light. This allows the worker to easily confirm that there is no problem with the connection of the wiring W1 using light that is not too dazzling.

[0062] Furthermore, for example, the storage system 10 may be programmed in advance with a process that can check the connection of both wires W1 and W2. For example, the detection unit 144 may be configured to be able to output a detection signal according to instructions from the arithmetic processing unit 212 regardless of whether the door 160 is pushed or not, and the arithmetic processing unit 212 may control each detection unit 144 to output a detection signal in order (for example, in the order of addresses (1,1), (1,2), (1,3), (1,4), (1,5), (2,1), (2,2),... (5,4), (5,5)).

[0063] When the detection unit 144 outputs a detection signal, power is supplied to the electronic lock 130 corresponding to the detection unit 144 that output the detection signal in accordance with the operation in the first mode described above. Therefore, if both of the wires W1 and W2 are connected correctly, the light-emitting unit 146 corresponding to the detection unit 144 that output the detection signal will emit light. Therefore, the worker can confirm whether the wires W1 and W2 are connected correctly by visually checking the light-emitting state and light-emitting order of each light-emitting unit 146. Also, in step S330 of FIG. 7, the worker may press the detection unit 144 of each frame 110 in order and check the light-emitting state of the light-emitting unit 146 to confirm the connection of the wires W1 and W2.

[0064] For example, if the light-emitting state or light-emitting sequence of the light-emitting units 146 is incorrect, the worker identifies the part with the incorrect wiring (the board 140 where the light-emitting units 146 are not emitting light) and corrects the wiring of the incorrect part. For example, this process is repeated until the light-emitting state and light-emitting sequence of the light-emitting units 146 are correct. Therefore, according to this assembly procedure, if there is a wiring error, the error can be corrected before the assembly of the storage system 10 is completed.

[0065] Thereafter, the worker inserts the inner box 120 into each frame 110 to accommodate the inner box 120 in each frame 110, and attaches the inner box 120 to the frame 110 (step S340).

[0066] 11 is a diagram illustrating the procedure for attaching the internal box 120 to the frame 110. As shown in FIG. 11 , the internal box 120 is inserted into a space formed inside the frame 110. When the internal box 120 is inserted, the rear surface of the outer flange portion 122 of the internal box 120 overlaps with the front surface of the inner flange portion 116 of the frame 110. For example, the internal box 120 is fixed to the frame 110 by screwing the outer flange portion 122 of the internal box 120 and the inner flange portion 116 of the frame 110 together.

[0067] In the outer flange portion 122 of the inner box 120, the size of the hole H2 is such that only the detection unit 144 is exposed to the outside, and the size of the hole H3 is such that only the switch unit 142 is exposed to the outside. Therefore, of the detection unit 144, the switch unit 142, and the light-emitting unit 146 that were exposed to the outside through the hole H1 before the inner box 120 was inserted, the light-emitting unit 146 is covered by the outer flange portion 122 of the inner box 120. As a result, the light-emitting unit 146 cannot be seen from the outside.

[0068] In this way, according to storage system 10, since light-emitting unit 146 is not visible from the outside when internal box 120 is housed within frame 110, it is possible to prevent unnecessary light from being visible to the user. Furthermore, according to storage system 10, since light-emitting unit 146 is not visible from the outside when internal box 120 is housed within frame 110, it is possible to improve the appearance of storage system 10.

[0069] Referring again to FIG. 7, after the installation of inner box 120 is completed, the worker attaches door 160 to frame 110 (step S350).

[0070] 12 is a diagram illustrating a procedure for attaching the door 160 to the frame 110. As shown in FIG. 12, for example, the door 160 is fixed to the frame 110 and the inner box 120 with screws via hinge portions 151 and 152. This allows the door 160 to be opened and closed relative to the frame 110 and the inner box 120.

[0071] [4. Features] As described above, in the process of assembling storage system 10 according to the present embodiment, a worker confirms that light-emitting unit 146 emits light normally, thereby confirming that there is no problem with the connection between light-emitting unit 146 and board 140. In storage system 10, light-emitting unit 146 faces the inner surface of frame 110. According to storage system 10, when light-emitting unit 146 emits light, the worker can see the light reflected by the inner surface of frame 110, so that the worker can easily confirm, with a light that is not too dazzling, that there is no problem with the electrical connection between power supply unit 240 and board 140.

[0072] 5. Other Embodiments The concept of the above embodiment is not limited to the embodiment described above. An example of another embodiment to which the concept of the above embodiment can be applied will be described below.

[0073] <5-1> In the above embodiment, when checking the wiring connections, the number of light-emitting units 146 that emit light simultaneously is one. However, a configuration may be adopted in which a plurality of light-emitting units 146 emit light simultaneously when checking the wiring connections.

[0074] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating groups of light-emitting units 146 that emit light simultaneously. As shown in FIG. 13, in the storage system 10A, groups are formed by multiple storage cabinets 100A. The storage system 10A includes groups G1, G2, G3, G4, G5, G6, G7, and G8. For example, when checking the wiring connections, the light-emitting units 146 corresponding to the multiple storage cabinets 100A in each group may emit light simultaneously. For example, the light-emitting units 146 in each of the groups G1, G2, G3, G4, G5, G6, G7, and G8 may emit light in the order of the groups. This allows the desired location to be checked by group, making the wiring connection check more efficient.

[0075] <5-2> In the above embodiment, the electronic lock 130 and the circuit board 140 are each attached to the upper part of the frame 110. However, the attachment positions of the electronic lock 130 and the circuit board 140 are not limited to this. The electronic lock 130 and the circuit board 140 may be attached to any of the left, right, and bottom parts of the frame 110.

[0076] In particular, in storage cabinets 100 that are installed at a higher position compared to the other rows, such as (1,1), (1,2), (1,3), (1,4), and (1,5) shown in Figure 1, it is advantageous to install the electronic lock 130 and the circuit board 140 at the bottom of the frame 110, as this makes it easier to check the lighting status of the light-emitting unit 146.

[0077] <5-3> In the above embodiment, the storage system 10 can be set to both the first mode and the second mode. However, the storage system 10 does not necessarily have to be set to both the first mode and the second mode. For example, the storage system 10 may have only the first mode or only the second mode.

[0078] <5-4> Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the storage system 10 has 24 storage cabinets 100, and the storage cabinets 100 and master boxes 200 are arranged in 5 rows and 5 columns. However, the number of storage cabinets 100 and the arrangement of the storage cabinets 100 and master boxes 200 are not limited to this. The number of storage cabinets 100 may be, for example, 23 or less, or 25 or more. Furthermore, the arrangement of the storage cabinets 100 and master boxes 200 may be any arrangement, such as 4 rows and 4 columns, or 4 rows and 3 columns.

[0079] <5-5> Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the types, shapes, etc. of the components used in the storage system 10 are not limited to those described above. For example, the configurations of the electronic lock 130, the detection unit 144, the switch unit 142, and the light-emitting unit 146 are not limited to those described above. Furthermore, for example, the rear end of the board 140 may be located further rearward than the rear end of the frame 110.

[0080] <5-6> In the above embodiment, the control unit 210, the reception unit 220, the storage unit 230, and the power supply unit 240 are each located in the master box 200. However, their location is not limited to this. For example, at least some of these may be housed in one of the storage cabinets 100, or may be located outside the storage system 10.

[0081] <5-7> The above describes several examples in which the connection state of the wiring can be confirmed by illuminating the light emitting unit 146. Specific examples of the light emitting pattern of the light emitting unit 146 are as follows. Examples of the light emitting pattern of the light emitting unit 146 include a pattern in which the light flashes multiple times every second, and a pattern in which the light is lit for one second. The light emitting pattern is not particularly limited as long as it can be confirmed by a worker checking the connection state of the wiring.

[0082] Furthermore, it is also possible to increase the number of seconds for the light to light up and flash, for example, to 5 seconds. In this case, the light period is longer than the aforementioned 1 second, making it easier for workers to check.

[0083] <5-8> Furthermore, in the above embodiment, light-emitting unit 146 is provided on the upper surface of substrate 140 together with detection unit 144 and switch unit 142. However, the location where light-emitting unit 146 is provided is not necessarily limited to this pattern. For example, a substrate on which only the light-emitting unit is provided may be prepared separately. Furthermore, the light-emitting unit does not necessarily have to be provided on the upper surface of the substrate, and a light-emitting unit that performs the same function may be provided separately.

[0084] The above describes exemplary embodiments of the present invention. That is, the detailed description and the accompanying drawings are disclosed for the purpose of illustrative explanation. Therefore, some of the components described in the detailed description and the accompanying drawings may be non-essential components for solving the problems. Therefore, just because these non-essential components are described in the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, it should not be immediately recognized that these non-essential components are essential.

[0085] Furthermore, the above-described embodiment is merely an example of the present invention in all respects. Various improvements and modifications can be made to the above-described embodiment within the scope of the present invention. In other words, when implementing the present invention, specific configurations can be appropriately adopted depending on the embodiment. [Explanation of symbols]

[0086] 10,10A storage system, 100,100A storage cabinet, 110 frame, 112 upper inner surface, 113,114 rib, 116 inner flange portion, 117 connection portion, 120 inner box, 122 outer flange portion, 130 electronic lock, 131 hook portion, 140 circuit board, 142 switch portion, 144 detection portion, 146 light emitting portion, 151,152 hinge portion, 160 door, 161 locking portion, 162 protrusion portion, 200,200A master box, 210 control portion, 212 calculation processing portion, 214 scanning portion, 216 switching portion, 220 reception portion, 230 memory portion, 240 power supply portion, C1 notch portion, DB1 database, G1,G2,G3,G4,G5,G6,G7,G8 Group, H1,H2,H3 holes, W1,W2 wiring.

Claims

1. A storage system comprising a plurality of storage cabinets, a power supply unit that supplies power to each of the plurality of storage cabinets, a control unit, and a memory unit, Each of the plurality of storage cabinets includes: The frame and an inner box housed within the frame; a door that opens and closes relative to the frame or inner box; an electronic lock that locks and unlocks the door; It has a light emitting part, The electronic lock and the light emitting unit are electrically connected, The light-emitting unit and the control unit are electrically connected to each other, The control unit and the power supply unit are electrically connected to each other, The storage unit stores individual address information corresponding to each repository, When the control unit receives a connection confirmation instruction, the control unit controls the light emitting unit corresponding to the individual address information to emit light. Storage system.

2. The storage system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit, upon receiving the connection confirmation instruction, causes the light-emitting units corresponding to the individual address information to emit light in sequence.

3. Furthermore, the storage cabinet includes a detection unit that detects the pushing of the door, a plurality of first wirings that connect the control unit and the light emitting unit, and a plurality of second wirings that connect the control unit and the detection unit, 2. The storage system according to claim 1, wherein, upon receiving the connection confirmation instruction, the control unit causes each of the detection units to output a detection signal via the second wiring, regardless of whether the detection unit is pressed or not, and causes the light-emitting units corresponding to the detection units to emit light in sequence.

4. In the plurality of storage cabinets, a group including one or more of the plurality of storage cabinets is formed, The storage system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit, upon receiving the connection confirmation instruction, simultaneously causes the light-emitting units corresponding to the individual address information included in the group to emit light.

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