Storage system, lock system, storage method, and program

Abstract

To provide a storage system, a lock system, a storage method, and a program that prevent a physical touch to an object and support to perform learning during an untouched lock time.SOLUTION: A storage system for storing an object comprises: a container having an opening; a lid for closing the opening of the container; a lock mechanism for locking or unlocking the lid relative to the container; an input part for receiving a user's instruction; a display part for displaying information to the user; and a control part, wherein the control part, upon receiving a locking instruction from the user, locks the container via the lock mechanism, and upon receiving an unlocking instruction from the user, displays one or more problems on the display part, accepts a user's answer to the problem, and if an answer result to the problem satisfies predetermined unlocking conditions, unlocks the container by using the lock mechanism.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a storage system for storing objects, a locking system for a storage device for storing objects, a storage method for storing objects, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Excessive use of mobile information terminals such as smartphones and overeating of snacks can become a problem. To address these issues, for example, so-called time-locking containers have been sold, which prevent stored items from being touched until a set time has elapsed.

[0003] Also, although it is specifically for mobile information terminals, a "protective case that can be attached to a mobile information terminal having a user interface for inputting and outputting information, the protective case having a blocking mechanism that blocks the user interface from the user and a control unit that controls the operation of the blocking mechanism based on preset conditions" has been proposed (see claim 1 of Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6016281 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Using the time-locking container, objects such as smartphones or snacks can be physically contained and made inaccessible.

[0006] On the other hand, the time-locking container may cause the user to be distracted even after the container is sealed, and may waste time by being unable to concentrate on other things. Alternatively, the user may obtain a substitute and use or eat it. If this happens, it is difficult to say that the use of the time-locking container was meaningful to the user.

[0007] The same applies to the protective case. Although the protective case can shield the user from the user interface, it can also prevent the user from concentrating on other things and waste time. Furthermore, the protective case cannot be used to store other objects besides the mobile information terminal, such as comic books or snacks.

[0008] The present invention is intended to solve at least one of the above problems, and aims to provide a storage system, a locking system, a storage method, and a program that prevent physical contact with an object and assists in learning during the locked time when the object cannot be touched. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] One aspect of the present invention that solves the above problem is a storage system for storing objects, comprising a container having an opening, a lid that closes the opening of the container, a locking mechanism for locking or unlocking the lid to the container, an input unit for receiving user instructions, a display unit for displaying information to the user, and a control unit, wherein when the control unit receives an instruction from the user to lock, it locks the container using the locking mechanism, and when the control unit receives an instruction from the user to unlock, it displays one or more questions on the display unit and accepts the user's answers to the questions, and if the answers to the questions satisfy predetermined unlocking conditions, it unlocks the container using the locking mechanism.

[0010] The control unit may accept a user's selection of a question set from a list of question sets before locking, and when an instruction to unlock is received, select a question from the selected question set and display it on the display unit.

[0011] The unlocking condition may be a predetermined number of correct answers, a number of consecutive correct answers, or a correct answer rate.

[0012] The control unit may unlock the door using the lock mechanism when the answer to the question satisfies the unlocking condition or when the accumulated answer time exceeds a predetermined time.

[0013] The control unit may unlock the door using the lock mechanism if the answer to the question satisfies the unlocking condition and the answer time is within a predetermined time.

[0014] If the answer to the question satisfies the unlocking condition, the control unit may unlock the door using the locking mechanism after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0015] When the control unit receives an instruction to unlock from the user, the control unit may, after a predetermined time has elapsed, cause the display unit to display the question and accept the user's answer to the question.

[0016] The control unit may receive a designation of an object from a user, and set the unlocking condition according to the designated object.

[0017] One aspect of the present invention that solves the above problem is a locking system for a storage device that stores objects, comprising a locking mechanism for keeping an opening / closing section of the storage device closed, an input section for receiving user instructions, a display section for displaying information to the user, and a control section; when the control section receives an instruction from the user to lock, it locks the storage device using the locking mechanism; when the control section receives an instruction from the user to unlock, it displays one or more questions on the display section, receives the user's answers to the questions, and if the answers to the questions satisfy predetermined unlocking conditions, it unlocks the storage device using the locking mechanism.

[0018] One aspect of the present invention that solves the above problem is a storage method using a storage system for storing objects or a locking system for storage equipment for storing objects, which includes the steps of locking using a locking mechanism when a locking instruction is received from a user, displaying one or more questions and accepting the user's answers to the questions when an unlocking instruction is received from the user, and unlocking using the locking mechanism if the answers to the questions satisfy predetermined unlocking conditions.

[0019] One aspect of the present invention that solves the above problem is a program that executes the following steps: locking a storage device for storing an object or a locking device for said storage device using a locking mechanism when a user instructs the storage device to lock; displaying one or more questions and accepting the user's answers to the questions when a user instructs the storage device to unlock; and unlocking the storage device using the locking mechanism if the answers to the questions satisfy predetermined unlocking conditions.

[0020] One aspect of the present invention that solves the above problem is a program that causes a terminal device that controls a storage device for storing an object or a locking device for said storage device to execute the following steps: when receiving a locking instruction from a user, locking the storage device or the locking device using the locking mechanism; when receiving an unlocking instruction from the user, displaying one or more questions and accepting the user's answers to the questions; and when the answers to the questions satisfy predetermined unlocking conditions, unlocking the storage device using the locking mechanism. [Effects of the Invention]

[0021] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a storage system, a locking system, a storage method, and a program that prevent physical contact with an object and assist in learning during the locked time when the object cannot be touched.

[0022] Problems, configurations, and effects other than those described above will become apparent from the following description of the embodiments. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] 1 shows an example of the configuration of a storage system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 shows an example of the appearance of a storage tool according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 2 shows an example of a data configuration according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing by the storage system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 1 shows a display example of a lock home screen according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 1 shows an example of a display of a selection screen for a question set according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 shows an example of a display of a setting screen for unlocking conditions according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] 1 shows a display example of an unlock home screen according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 1 shows an example of a question screen display according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 shows a display example of an unlocking confirmation screen according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 shows an example of a display of a setting screen 1 for unlocking conditions according to a first modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 12] 10 shows an example of a display of a setting screen 2 for unlocking conditions according to a first modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 13] 10 shows an example of a display of a setting screen 2 for unlocking conditions according to a second modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 14] 13 shows an example of a display of a setting screen 2 for unlocking conditions according to a third modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 15] 13 shows an example of a display of a setting screen 2 for unlocking conditions according to a fourth modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 16] 13 shows an example of a display of a setting screen 2 for unlocking conditions according to a fifth modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 17] 13 shows an example of the data configuration of unlock setting information according to a fifth modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 18]13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing by a storage system according to a sixth modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 19] 13 shows a display example of a lock home screen according to a sixth modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 20] 13 shows an example of a display of a setting screen 1 for unlocking conditions according to a sixth modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 21] 13 shows an example of a display of a setting screen 2 for unlocking conditions according to a sixth modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 22] 13 shows an example of a display of a setting screen 3 for unlocking conditions according to a sixth modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 23] 13 shows an example of a data configuration according to a sixth modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 24] 10 shows an example of the appearance of a locking system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 25] 10 shows an example of the configuration of a storage system according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] Hereinafter, examples of embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that components common to the following embodiments and their modifications will be designated by the same reference numerals as those mentioned above, and their description may be omitted. Furthermore, when referring to the shape, positional relationship, etc. of components, etc., this includes those that are substantially similar or similar to the shape, etc., unless otherwise specified or when it is clearly considered otherwise in principle.

[0025] <Embodiment 1 - Storage System> 1 shows an example of the configuration of a storage system according to embodiment 1. The storage system 100 is a system that assists a user in learning during a locked time when using a storage device 10, during which the user cannot touch an object O.

[0026] The object O is an object that interferes with learning, and although it depends on the age group of the user, it may be, for example, a small electronic device such as a smartphone, a tablet PC, a game console, a book such as a manga, or sweets. The object O may also be an object that increases motivation to study. As an example, the following will explain an example in which the object O is a smartphone.

[0027] The user U shown in the figure is the user of the storage device 10. Typically, the user of the object O and the supervisor of that user become the user U of the storage device 10. Specifically, when locking (locking process), the supervisor (e.g., a parent) becomes the user U, and when unlocking (unlocking process), the user of the object O (e.g., a child) becomes the user U receiving learning support. When using the storage device 10 for one's own study, the user of the object O also serves as the supervisor. In the following description, unless otherwise specified, it is assumed that the user U when locking is the supervisor, and the user U when unlocking is the user of the object O.

[0028] The storage system 100 includes a storage device 10, an external storage medium 30, and a question collection database 40. The storage device 10 includes a storage unit (described later), a locking mechanism 13, a control unit 20 having a first means 201 and a second means 202, a display unit 21, an input unit 22, a memory unit 23, a communication unit 24, and a power supply unit 25.

[0029] 2 shows an example of the appearance of the storage tool according to embodiment 1. The storage tool 10 is portable and can be carried by the user U himself to various places for use.

[0030] As an example, storage device 10 is a locking container. Here, the storage section that physically stores object O in storage device 10 is composed of a container 11 and a lid 12. As shown in the figure, as an example, the storage section is provided with a locking section 19 including a locking mechanism 13, a touch panel display 14, and a sensor 15. An opening / closing section for opening and closing the storage section is composed of an opening 111 that surrounds the opening of container 11 and a lower end 121 of lid 12.

[0031] As an example, the container 11 has a peripheral wall and a bottom wall to form a storage space, and is open at the top. The container 11 may be formed so that part or all of the stored object (storage item) O can be visible, or may be formed so that it cannot be seen. The container 11 in the illustrated example is formed so that at least a part thereof is transparent or semi-transparent, so that the object O can be seen (for example, seen through). The container 11 may be made of any material, as long as it has enough rigidity to maintain its shape. The container 11 may be made of, for example, resin, metal, wood, etc.

[0032] The lid 12 closes (blocks) the opening of the container 11 and is configured to correspond to the container 11. In the illustrated example, the lower end 121 of the lid 12 engages with the opening 111 of the container 11, closing the opening of the container 11 from above. The lid 12 may be formed so that part or all of the object O stored therein can be seen, or may be formed so that it cannot be seen. The lid 12 may be made of any material, as long as it has enough rigidity to maintain its shape. The lid 12 may be made of, for example, resin, metal, wood, etc.

[0033] The container 11 and the lid 12 are preferably connected by a hinge at the opening 111 and the lower end 121 of the lid 12. When a hinge is provided, the opening 111 of the container 11 and the lower end 121 of the lid 12 may simply be in contact with each other without being interlocked even in the closed state. The shape of the storage device 10 is not particularly limited, and the shape and position of the opening and closing part are not limited to the example shown in the figures.

[0034] The locking mechanism 13 is for keeping the opening and closing part of the storage part in a closed state. In this example, the locking mechanism 13 is for locking or unlocking the lid 12 to the container 11. The locking mechanism 13 is designed to be electrically lockable and unlockable. Here, locking refers to keeping the opening and closing part of the storage part in a closed state, and unlocking refers to releasing this lock.

[0035] As an example, the locking mechanism 13 is provided integrally with the storage device 10 as shown in the figure. The locking mechanism 13 is provided, for example, inside the storage section in a portion opposite the hinge. Two or more locking mechanisms 13 may be provided symmetrically. The locking mechanism 13 includes, for example, a first portion 131 provided at or near the opening 111 of the container 11, and a second portion 132 provided at or near the bottom end 121 of the lid 12.

[0036] As an example, the locking mechanism 13 is configured such that one of the first part 131 and the second part 132 is an electromagnet and the other includes a magnetic material, and the two are attracted to each other to enter a locked state or an unlocked state by control of the second means 202 of the control unit 20 (power supply or power supply stop).

[0037] As an example, the locking mechanism 13 may be driven via a drive unit. That is, the locking unit 19 may further include a drive unit (not shown). In this case, the locking mechanism 13 has, for example, an engagement portion formed by a recess or hole provided in one of the first part 131 and the second part 132, and a locking member for engaging with this engagement portion provided in the other. Then, when the drive unit moves the locking member under the control of the second means 202 of the control unit 20, the locking member engages with the engagement portion to enter a locked state, or the locking member disengages from the engagement portion to enter an unlocked state. The configuration of the drive unit is not particularly limited, and known techniques such as a motor type or a solenoid type may be used as appropriate.

[0038] The touch panel display 14 is a device for displaying various information to the user U and accepting input from the user U. In this example, the display unit 21 for displaying information to the user U of the storage system 100 and the input unit 22 for accepting instructions from the user U are configured by the touch panel display 14. Instead of the touch panel display 14, the display unit 21 may be configured by a display that does not have a touch panel, and the input unit 22 may be configured by mechanical buttons or the like. The display unit (output unit) 21 and the input unit 22 may be voice-based. In this case, a voice recognition function may be provided in the storage system 100, or an external device may be used, for example, to collect sound using a microphone or the like and convert it into text via the communication unit 24 in an external voice recognition server.

[0039] The touch panel display 14 is provided in a position that is easy for the user U to operate, and in the illustrated example, is provided on the lid 12. In this case, the lid 12 is preferably configured so that the contents stored therein cannot be seen through, so that the user U's line of sight can be easily focused on the touch panel display 14. The touch panel display 14 may be provided on the peripheral wall of the container 11, and in this case, the peripheral wall portion is preferably configured so that the contents cannot be seen through. The touch panel display 14 is preferably configured to be somewhat large, and although it depends on the size of the container 11, it is, for example, about 1 / 3 to 3 / 2 the size of the touch panel display of a normal smartphone.

[0040] The sensor 15 is a device for detecting a startup operation by the user U and outputting the detection result to the first means 201 of the control unit 20. As an example, the sensor 15 is provided below the touch panel display 14, and together they constitute the input unit 22. The specific configuration of the sensor 15 is not particularly limited, and known technology can be used as appropriate. The sensor 15 is, for example, an optical sensor that detects a startup operation when the user U holds out their hand. The sensor 15 may also be a touch sensor. A mechanical button or the like may be provided instead of the sensor 15. Note that the touch panel display 14 may also serve as the sensor 15, detecting a startup operation when the user U touches it.

[0041] Returning to FIG. 1, the internal configuration of storage device 10 will be described. Control unit 20 is, for example, a small computer or microcomputer, which executes a predetermined program to control each unit and realize the functions described below. In control unit 20, for example, first means 201 realizes a UI (User Interface) function and an unlocking condition setting function described below. In control unit 20, for example, first means 201 and second means 202 cooperate to realize a locking function and an unlocking function. Note that control lines from control unit 20 to each unit are omitted from the illustration (the same applies to the control units of each embodiment described below).

[0042] The UI function is a function that controls the display unit 21 and the input unit 22 to display information to the user U and accept instructions from the user U.

[0043] The locking function is a function that locks the door using the locking mechanism 13 when a locking instruction is received from the user U. The unlocking condition setting function, which will be described later in an example, is a function that sets the unlocking conditions for unlocking. When an unlocking instruction is received from the user U, the unlocking function displays one or more questions on the display unit 21, accepts the answers from the user U, and if the answers to the questions satisfy the predetermined unlocking conditions, unlocks the door using the locking mechanism 13.

[0044] The storage unit 23 is composed of, for example, a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory or a volatile memory such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) (however, a constant power supply is required). The storage unit 23 includes a first storage unit 231 that stores question setting information and unlocking setting information, and a second storage unit 232 that stores question collection data. Note that the storage unit 23 may also store other information and data.

[0045] The communication unit 24 is a part for communicating data and information with the outside. The communication unit 24 may be either wired or wireless. As an example, the communication unit 24 is made up of a module that communicates data and information with the external storage medium 30 using the USB standard. The communication unit 24 may also use other standards or technologies, and publicly known technologies may be used as appropriate.

[0046] Power supply unit 25 includes a battery (primary battery, secondary battery) and its peripheral circuits for supplying power to each unit. Power supply unit 25 may also include a power cord that can be connected to a power outlet such as a commercial power source.

[0047] The external storage medium 30 is used to acquire question collection data from an external device and import it into the storage device 10. The external storage medium 30 is a storage medium such as a USB memory. The external storage medium 30 may also be an electronic device such as a smartphone that can function as a storage medium. The external storage medium 30 is configured to be able to connect to the question collection database 40 directly or indirectly via a network N (e.g., the Internet).

[0048] The problem set database 40 is a database of a server connected to the network N (e.g., the Internet). Desired problem set data is downloaded from the problem set database 40 to the external storage medium 30 and installed in the storage unit 23. The problem set will depend on the user's age, occupation, etc., but for a student preparing for entrance exams, problem sets for university entrance exams (e.g., preparation for the University of Tokyo) or high school entrance exams (e.g., preparation for Nada High School) are preferred. Problem set data may be selected starting from a favorite subject or at the user's current level, and gradually increasing in level.

[0049] FIG. 3 shows an example of the data configuration according to the first embodiment, and shows an example of the configuration of (a) problem setting information and (b) unlock setting information.

[0050] The question setting information 2311 is generated by the first means 201 of the control unit 20 based on the input of the user U on the question set selection screen 510 (FIG. 6). The question setting information 2311 includes a question set ID, which is an identifier for uniquely identifying a question set.

[0051] The unlocking setting information 2312 is generated by the first means 201 of the control unit 20 based on the input of the user U on the unlocking condition setting screen 520 (FIG. 7). The unlocking setting information 2312 includes the number of questions and answer conditions (number of correct answers, number of consecutive correct answers, and correct answer rate).

[0052] Fig. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing by the storage system according to embodiment 1. Fig. 5 to Fig. 10 show examples of screen displays, with Fig. 5 showing a locking home screen, Fig. 6 showing a quiz selection screen, Fig. 7 showing an unlocking condition setting screen, Fig. 8 showing an unlocking home screen, Fig. 9 showing a quiz screen, and Fig. 10 showing an unlocking confirmation screen.

[0053] When using the storage device 10, the supervisor stores the question collection data in advance in the second storage unit 232 of the storage unit 23. Then, the supervisor places the object O in the storage device, closes the lid 12, and then starts the device by, for example, holding a hand over the sensor 15.

[0054] 4, first, the control unit 20 determines whether or not a startup operation has been performed (step S1). If the startup operation is detected by the sensor 15, the control unit 20 determines that a startup operation has been performed (S1: YES) and proceeds to step S2. If not (S1: NO), the control unit 20 continues monitoring.

[0055] In step S2, the control unit 20 determines whether the lock mechanism 13 is locked or not, and if it is locked (S2: YES), the process proceeds to step S8, and if it is not locked (S2: NO), the process proceeds to step S3.

[0056] In step S3, the control unit 20 displays the locking home screen 500 on the display unit 21 and accepts instructions from the supervisor. As shown in Fig. 5, the locking home screen 500 displays, for example, a message indicating that the lock is not locked (e.g., "Not Locked"), a "Start" button 501, and a "Back" button 502. The storage system 100 may also be equipped with a speaker or the like, and the message indicating that the lock is not locked may be output as voice from the speaker (the same applies to steps described below).

[0057] The "Start" button 501 is used by the supervisor to instruct the start of locking processing. The "Return" button 502 is used by the supervisor to instruct the return to step S1 (standby state).

[0058] When the supervisor operates the "Start" button 501 on the locking home screen 500, the control unit 20 determines that there is an instruction to start the locking process (S3: YES) and proceeds to step S4. When the supervisor operates the "Back" button 502, it determines that there is no instruction to start the locking process (S3: NO) and returns the process to step S1.

[0059] In step S4, the control unit 20 accepts the supervisor's selection of a question set from the list of question sets. The control unit 20 causes the display unit 21 to display a question set selection screen 510, for example.

[0060] The question set selection screen 510, as shown in FIG. 6, has a question set selection field 511, a "Next" button 512, and a "Back" button 513. The question set selection field 511 is for the supervisor to select a question set from the list of question sets stored in the second storage unit 232. The "Next" button 512 is for the supervisor to instruct transition to the unlocking condition setting screen 520 (FIG. 7). The "Back" button 513 is for the supervisor to instruct return to the locking home screen 500.

[0061] When the supervisor selects, for example, "Difficult Junior High School English" in the question set selection field 511 on the question set selection screen 510, the control unit 20 receives this and generates question setting information 2311. Then, when the supervisor operates the "Next" button 512, the process proceeds to step S5.

[0062] In step S5, the control unit 20 displays an unlocking condition setting screen 520 on the display unit 21 and accepts instructions from the supervisor. The unlocking condition setting screen 520, as shown in FIG. 7, includes a number of questions setting field 521, a number of correct answers setting field 522, a number of consecutive correct answers setting field 523, a correct answer rate setting field 524, a "lock" button 525, and a "back" button 526. The number of correct answers setting field 522, the number of consecutive correct answers setting field 523, and the correct answer rate setting field 524 can be selected using radio buttons. The "lock" button 525 is used by the supervisor to instruct locking. The "back" button 526 is used by the supervisor to instruct returning to the question set selection screen 510.

[0063] On the unlocking condition setting screen 520, for example, if the supervisor operates the number of questions to "10," selects the number of correct answers as the answer condition, and operates "7," the control unit 20 accepts this and generates the unlocking setting information 2312. In this case, the unlocking condition is that the user U (the user) correctly answers seven out of ten questions. For example, if the supervisor operates the number of questions to "10," selects the number of consecutive correct answers as the answer condition, and operates "5," the control unit 20 accepts this and generates the unlocking setting information 2312. In this case, the unlocking condition is that the user correctly answers five out of ten questions consecutively. For example, if the supervisor operates the number of questions to "10," selects the correct answer rate as the answer condition, and operates "70," the control unit 20 accepts this and generates the unlocking setting information 2312. In this case, the unlocking condition is that the user correctly answers 70% of the questions out of 10.

[0064] When the supervisor operates the "lock" button 525, the control unit 20 determines in step S6 that a locking instruction has been issued (S6: YES) and proceeds to step S7. When the supervisor operates the "back" button 526, the control unit 20 determines that a locking instruction has not been issued (S6: NO) and returns to the question set selection screen 510 so that the supervisor can try again.

[0065] In step S7, the control unit 20 locks the object O using the locking mechanism 13, and returns to step S1 (standby state). This prevents the user from physically touching the object O, but allows the user to receive learning support through the following unlocking process.

[0066] Note that, although the above example shows that setting the unlocking conditions and locking are performed in succession, they may also be performed separately. As an example, a "Settings" button may be further provided on the locking home screen 500, and when the supervisor operates the "Settings" button, the above steps S4 (receiving problem setting) and S5 (receiving condition setting) are processed, allowing the settings to be made in advance. In this case, when the "Lock" button is subsequently operated on the locking home screen 500, the processing of step S7 is performed, and the door is immediately locked.

[0067] When unlocking, for example, when the user holds their hand over the sensor 15, the control unit 20 determines that an activation operation has been performed (S1: YES) and proceeds to step S2. Then, in step S2, the control unit 20 determines that the locking mechanism 13 is locked (S2: YES) and proceeds to step S8.

[0068] In step S8, the control unit 20 displays an unlocking home screen 600 on the display unit 21 and accepts instructions from the user. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the unlocking home screen 600 displays a message indicating that the item is locked (e.g., "Locked"), an "Unlock" button 601, and a "Back" button 602. The "Unlock" button 601 is used by the user to instruct unlocking. The "Back" button 602 is used to instruct returning to step S1. Note that a message indicating the unlocking conditions may also be displayed. This allows the user to understand the unlocking conditions before attempting to answer the questions.

[0069] When the user operates the "Unlock" button 601 on the unlock home screen 600, the control unit 20 receives this and determines that there is an instruction to unlock (an instruction to start the unlocking process) (S8: YES), and proceeds to step S9. When the user operates the "Back" button 602, the control unit 20 receives this and determines that there is no instruction to unlock (S8: NO), and returns the process to step S1.

[0070] In step S9, the control unit 20 displays one or more questions on the display unit 21 and accepts the user's answers to the displayed questions. The control unit 20 displays, for example, a question screen 610 on the display unit 21. The question screen 610, as shown in FIG. 9, includes, for example, a question 611, an answer field 612, a "Next" button 613, and a "Back" button 614. The question 611 is a question selected (asked) by the control unit 20 from the selected question collection based on the question setting information 2311. The answer field 612 is for the user to select and operate an answer. The "Next" button 613 is for the user to instruct the display of the next question. The "Back" button 614 is for the user to instruct the display unit 21 to return to the previous screen (here, the unlock home screen 600).

[0071] When the user answers on question screen 610, control unit 20 accepts and records this. Then, when the user operates "Next" button 613, the next question (e.g., question 2) is displayed and the user's answer is accepted in the same way. When the user operates "Next" button 613 on screen 610 for the last question (e.g., question 10), control unit 20 proceeds to step S10.

[0072] In step S10, the control unit 20 determines whether the unlocking conditions are met. The control unit 20 compares the user's answer with the answers in the question set to determine whether the answer is correct and calculates the answer result. The control unit 20 then compares the answer result with the set value in the unlocking setting information 2312. If the set value is equal to or greater than the set value, the control unit 20 determines that the unlocking conditions are met (S10: YES) and proceeds to step S11. If not (S10: NO), the process returns to step S8. In this case, the control unit 20 may notify the user by displaying an unlocking confirmation screen on the display unit 21 that displays a message indicating that the unlocking conditions are not met (e.g., "Please try again from the beginning"), a message indicating the answer result (e.g., "Number of correct answers: 5 / 10"), a "Home" button, or the like.

[0073] In step S11, the control unit 20 unlocks the lock mechanism 13 and displays an unlock confirmation screen 620. The unlock confirmation screen 620 displays, for example, as shown in FIG. 10 , a message indicating that the lock has been unlocked (e.g., "Unlocked"), a message indicating the answer result (e.g., "7 / 10 correct answers"), a "Review" button 621, and a "Back" button 622. The "Review" button 621 is used by the user to instruct the display of answers and explanations. When the user operates the "Review" button 621, the control unit 20 responds by displaying the displayed questions and the corresponding answers and explanations on the display unit 21. The "Back" button 622 is used to instruct the display unit 21 to return to the previous question screen. The control unit 20 returns the process to step S1 (standby state) after a predetermined period of time has elapsed without any user operation, or after the answers and explanations have been displayed. For example, an "OK" button may be displayed on the unlock confirmation screen 620, and when this button is operated, the process may return to step S1 (standby state).

[0074] In the above steps, except for steps S7 and S11, the processing of the control unit 20 is, more specifically, performed by the first means 201 (this applies to each of the following embodiments and their modifications). More specifically, in steps S7 and S11, the second means 202 controls the locking mechanism 13 to lock or unlock based on the locking or unlocking instruction from the first means 201 (this applies to each of the following embodiments and their modifications). In other words, in both steps, the first means 201 indirectly controls the locking mechanism 13 via the second means 202 to lock or unlock.

[0075] As described above, according to the storage system 100 of this embodiment, the user can learn by answering questions during the locked time.

[0076] If you are addicted to something, depending on how addicted you are, physical containment may not always be effective. You may end up wasting time thinking about the thing you're addicted to and not being able to do anything else. Or you may end up thinking about how to get a replacement and actually get one.

[0077] The storage device 10 of this embodiment does not simply physically confine the object O, but also provides a means (release means) for releasing it. Therefore, the user's attention is temporarily drawn away from the object O and directed toward the release means. Also, because the object O is not touched during the release process, the user is unlikely to immediately return their attention to the object O (to succumb to temptation). Conversely, the sense of distance that comes from storing the object within the storage device 10 gives the user a sense of security, allowing them to approach the release process calmly.

[0078] <Modification 1 of Embodiment 1> Fig. 11 shows a display example of a setting screen 1 for unlocking conditions according to Modification 1 of Embodiment 1. Fig. 12 shows a display example of a setting screen 2 for unlocking conditions according to Modification 1 of Embodiment 1. Below, explanations of similarities to the above-mentioned Embodiment 1 will be omitted as appropriate, and differences will be mainly explained.

[0079] With the storage system 100 of the first embodiment, if you start unlocking it immediately after locking it, the locking time is roughly equal to the study time (the time required to unlock it). Therefore, by storing and locking objects that hinder study or that can increase motivation, the user's studies can be efficiently supported.

[0080] On the other hand, the storage system 100 of embodiment 1 will not unlock unless the user clears the unlocking conditions. Therefore, depending on the problem, the user may not be able to unlock the lock no matter how many times they answer, which may reduce the user's motivation to learn. Although the supervisor can adjust the difficulty of the unlocking conditions depending on the difficulty of the problem when locking the lock, there are cases where it is not possible to accurately predict the difficulty. A forced unlocking means that can only be operated by the supervisor may be provided, but the supervisor may be away from his or her desk and may not be able to respond immediately. Furthermore, if the user also serves as the supervisor, providing a forced unlocking means would make locking meaningless.

[0081] The storage system 100 of this example can handle such cases and also allows timer conditions to be set. In this example, the control unit 20 unlocks the lock mechanism 13 when the cumulative answer time exceeds a predetermined time, even if the answer to the question does not satisfy the answer conditions. An example will be described in more detail below.

[0082] In step S5 of the storage system 100 of this example, the control unit 20 first displays an unlocking condition setting screen 530 on the display unit 21 and accepts instructions related to the answer conditions. As shown in Fig. 11, the unlocking condition setting screen 530 has a "Next" button 535 instead of the "Lock" button 525 on the unlocking condition setting screen 520, and when this button is operated, the control unit 20 displays an unlocking condition setting screen 540 on the display unit 21 and accepts instructions related to the timer conditions.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 12, the unlocking condition setting screen 540 is provided with, for example, a timer setting field 541, a "lock" button 542, and a "back" button 543. The timer setting field 541 is for the supervisor to set the timer, for example, in minutes. The "lock" button 542 is for the supervisor to instruct locking. The "back" button 543 is for the supervisor to instruct returning to the unlocking condition setting screen 530. When the supervisor operates, for example, "30" in the timer setting field, the control unit 20 accepts this and generates unlocking setting information including answer conditions and timer conditions. Although not shown, the unlocking setting information includes the number of questions, answer conditions (number of correct answers, number of consecutive correct answers, correct answer rate), and timer conditions.

[0084] When unlocking, in step S8 in this example, when the user operates the "Unlock" button 601 on the unlock home screen 600, the control unit 20 starts timing the answer time, determines that there is an instruction to unlock (S8: YES), and proceeds to step S9. In step S9, when the user operates the "Next" button 613 on the last question (e.g., question 10) screen 610, the control unit 20 stops timing and proceeds to step S10.

[0085] In step S10, the control unit 20 determines whether the unlocking conditions are met. If the answer result meets the answer conditions, it is determined that the unlocking conditions are met (S10: YES), and the process proceeds to step S11. Even if the answer result does not meet the answer conditions, if the cumulative answer time exceeds the set timer time, it is determined that the unlocking conditions are met (S10: YES), and the process proceeds to step S11. If neither the answer condition nor the timer condition is met (S10: NO), the process returns to step S8, and the user is asked to start over from the beginning. In this case, when the user operates the "unlock" button 601, clocking of the answer time is restarted.

[0086] By configuring the storage system 100 of this example in this way, if the user meets the answer conditions, the lock will be unlocked in a relatively short time, and even if the answer conditions cannot be met, if the cumulative answer time exceeds a predetermined time, the timer condition will be met and the lock will be unlocked, thereby preventing the user's motivation to learn from decreasing due to repeated answering.

[0087] <Modification 2 of Embodiment 1> 13 shows an example of the display of the setting screen 2 for unlocking conditions according to Variation 2 of Embodiment 1. The storage system 100 of this example differs from Variation 1 of Embodiment 1 in the configuration related to the timer conditions. Below, explanations of similarities will be omitted as appropriate, and the differences will be mainly described.

[0088] The timer condition of the first modification is that the door is unlocked when the cumulative response time exceeds a predetermined time (hereinafter also referred to as the "first timer condition").

[0089] The storage system 100 of the first modification combines the first timer condition with the answer condition to lower the difficulty of the unlocking condition compared to the first embodiment. However, as learning progresses, a higher difficulty level of the unlocking condition may provide more effective support. The difficulty level of the unlocking condition can be adjusted by setting the answer condition, but training that focuses on the answer time may be more effective.

[0090] The storage system 100 of this example can handle such cases and can set a second timer condition. In this example, the control unit 20 unlocks the lock mechanism 13 if the response result meets the response condition and the response time is within a predetermined time. An example will be described in more detail below.

[0091] In step S5 of the storage system 100 of this example, the control unit 20 displays an unlocking condition setting screen 550 on the display unit 21 and accepts instructions related to the timer conditions. As shown in Fig. 13, the unlocking condition setting screen 550 has, for example, a timer setting field 541, a "lock" button 542, and a "back" button 543, as well as a requirements field.

[0092] The requirement column here is "Clear within time," which means that the answer condition must be met within a predetermined time. When the supervisor selects "Clear within time" 556, the control unit 20 accepts this and generates unlocking setting information. Although not shown, the unlocking setting information includes the number of questions, answering conditions (number of correct answers, number of consecutive correct answers, correct answer rate), and timer conditions (clear within time). Note that when "None" 555 is selected, the same as in Variation 1 above.

[0093] When unlocking, in step S8 of this example, when the user operates the "Unlock" button 601 on the unlock home screen 600, the control unit 20 starts timing the answer time, determines that there is an instruction to unlock (S8: YES), and proceeds to step S9. In step S9, when the user operates the "Next" button 613 on the last question (e.g., question 10) screen 610, the control unit 20 ends timing and proceeds to step S10.

[0094] In step S10, the control unit 20 determines whether the unlocking conditions are met. If the response result satisfies the response conditions and the response time is within the set time, it determines that the unlocking conditions are met (S10: YES), proceeds to step S11, and unlocks the door using the lock mechanism 13.

[0095] By configuring the storage system 100 of this example in this way, it is possible to guide the user to fulfill the answer conditions within a set time, and to provide learning support that allows the user to answer questions with greater awareness of time.

[0096] <Modification 3 of Embodiment 1> 14 shows an example of the display of the setting screen 2 for unlocking conditions according to Variation 3 of Embodiment 1. The storage system 100 of this example differs from Variation 1 of Embodiment 1 in the configuration related to the timer conditions. Below, explanations of similarities will be omitted as appropriate, and the differences will be mainly described.

[0097] The storage system 100 of the first modification is designed to allow review after unlocking. However, usually, once unlocked, the user's concentration is often lost and they often succumb to the temptation of the object O. On the other hand, reviewing immediately after answering the questions is thought to improve the learning effect.

[0098] The storage system 100 of this example can handle such cases and can set a third timer condition. In this example, if the response result satisfies the response condition, the control unit 20 unlocks the lock mechanism 13 after a predetermined time has elapsed. An example will be described in more detail below.

[0099] In step S5 of the storage system 100 of this example, the control unit 20 displays an unlocking condition setting screen 560 on the display unit 21 and accepts instructions related to the timer conditions. As shown in Fig. 14, the unlocking condition setting screen 560 has, for example, a timer setting field 541, a "lock" button 542, and a "back" button 543, as well as a requirements field.

[0100] The requirement column here is "unlock after elapse of time," which means that the lock will be unlocked after a predetermined time has elapsed. When the supervisor selects "unlock after elapse of time" 567, the control unit 20 accepts this and generates unlock setting information. The unlock setting information includes the number of questions, answer conditions (number of correct answers, number of consecutive correct answers, correct answer rate), and timer conditions (unlock after elapse of time), although these are not shown. Note that when "none" 555 is selected, the process is the same as in Variation 1 above.

[0101] When unlocking, in step S9 in this example, when the user operates the "Next" button 613 on the last question (for example, question 10) screen 610, the control unit 20 starts timing and proceeds to step S10.

[0102] In step S10, the control unit 20 determines whether the unlocking condition is met. If the answer result satisfies the answering condition and the set time has elapsed since the start of timing, it is determined that the unlocking condition is met (S10: YES), and the process proceeds to step S11, where the locking mechanism 13 unlocks the door.

[0103] By configuring the storage system 100 of this example in this way, it is possible to guide students to review for a predetermined time after answering questions, thereby providing learning support that further improves the learning effect.

[0104] <Fourth Modification of First Embodiment> 15 shows an example of the display of the setting screen 2 for unlocking conditions according to Variation 4 of Embodiment 1. The storage system 100 of this example differs from Variation 1 of Embodiment 1 in the configuration related to the timer conditions. Below, explanations of similarities will be omitted as appropriate, and the differences will be mainly described.

[0105] In the storage system 100 of the first modification, when an unlocking command is given, the control unit 20 displays a question screen and accepts an answer. However, it is considered that learning effect will be improved if the student studies the subject before answering the question.

[0106] The storage system 100 of this example can handle such cases and can set a fourth timer condition. In this example, when the control unit 20 receives an instruction to unlock, it displays a question on the display unit 21 after a predetermined time has passed and accepts an answer to the question. An example will be described in more detail below.

[0107] In step S5 of the storage system 100 of this example, the control unit 20 displays an unlocking condition setting screen 570 on the display unit 21 and accepts instructions related to the timer conditions. As shown in Fig. 15, the unlocking condition setting screen 570 has, for example, a timer setting field 541, a "lock" button 542, and a "back" button 543, as well as a requirements field.

[0108] The requirement column here is "Accept answers after elapse of time," which means that questions will be displayed and answers will be accepted after a predetermined time has elapsed. When the supervisor selects "Accept answers after elapse of time" 578, the control unit 20 accepts this and generates unlocking setting information. Although not shown, the unlocking setting information includes the number of questions, answer conditions (number of correct answers, number of consecutive correct answers, correct answer rate), and timer conditions (accept answers after elapse of time). Note that when "None" 555 is selected, it is the same as the above-mentioned variant 1.

[0109] When unlocking, in step S8 of this example, when the user operates the "Unlock" button 601 on the unlock home screen 600, the control unit 20 determines that an instruction to unlock has been given (S8: YES) and starts timing. Then, after the set time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S9, where a question is displayed and an answer is accepted.

[0110] By configuring the storage system 100 of this example in this way, it is possible to guide students to prepare by studying the relevant area in a textbook or the like before answering questions, thereby providing learning support that further improves the learning effect.

[0111] <Fifth Modification of First Embodiment> Fig. 16 shows an example of the display of the setting screen 2 for unlocking conditions according to Variation 5 of Embodiment 1. Fig. 17 shows an example of the data configuration of unlocking setting information according to Variation 5 of Embodiment 1. The storage system 100 of this example differs from Variation 1 of Embodiment 1 above in the configuration related to the timer conditions. Below, explanations of similarities will be omitted as appropriate, and the differences will be mainly described.

[0112] The storage system 100 of this example allows selection of the first to fourth timer conditions. For the configurations related to each timer condition, please refer to the above explanations as appropriate, and detailed explanations will be omitted here.

[0113] By configuring the storage system 100 of this example in this way, the unlocking conditions can be set according to the progress of learning, the time of learning, etc., allowing for more flexible learning support. For example, at the beginning of the semester, the unlocking conditions can be set to include the fourth timer condition (requirement: accepting answers after the elapse of time) to emphasize preparation for the lesson. Also, before the final exam, the unlocking conditions can be set to include the second timer condition (requirement: completing the lesson within the time limit) to allow for training not only on content but also on time management.

[0114] <Sixth Modification of First Embodiment> FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing by a storage system according to Modification 6 of Embodiment 1. FIG. 19 shows an example of the display of a locking home screen according to Modification 6 of Embodiment 1. FIG. 20 shows an example of the display of setting screen 1 for unlocking conditions according to Modification 6 of Embodiment 1. FIG. 21 shows an example of the display of setting screen 2 for unlocking conditions according to Modification 6 of Embodiment 1. FIG. 22 shows an example of the data configuration according to Modification 6 of Embodiment 1, and shows an example of the configuration of unlocking setting information. The storage system 100 of this example differs from Modification 5 of Embodiment 1 above in that it allows the user to specify an object. Hereinafter, the description of similarities will be omitted as appropriate, and the differences will be focused on.

[0115] The object O on which a user tends to become addicted is not limited to one. Different objects O may have different levels of addiction. While the storage system 100 of the fifth modification allows the supervisor to adjust the response conditions each time, taking into account the degree of addiction to the object O, this requires time and effort to think about and operate each time. Furthermore, it is difficult to maintain consistency in the difficulty settings, and the time from the start of the locking process to the actual locking is long.

[0116] The storage system 100 of this example can address such issues, allowing the supervisor to specify the object O. In this example, the control unit 20 accepts the specification of the object O from the supervisor and sets the unlocking conditions according to the specified object. Also, in this example, setting the unlocking conditions and locking can be performed separately. An example will be described in more detail below.

[0117] In step S3 of the storage system 100 of this example, the control unit 20 displays a locking home screen 700 on the display unit 21 and accepts instructions from the supervisor. As shown in FIG. 19 , the locking home screen 700 displays, for example, a message indicating that the lock is not locked (e.g., "Not Locked"), a "Lock" button 701, a "Back" button 502, and a "Set" button 703. The "Lock" button 701 is used by the supervisor to instruct locking. The "Back" button 502 is used by the supervisor to instruct returning to step S1. The "Set" button 703 is used by the supervisor to instruct settings.

[0118] When the supervisor operates the "Set" button 703 on the locking home screen 700, the control unit 20 determines that a setting instruction has been received (S3: Set) and proceeds to step S4. If the unlocking conditions have been set separately in advance, when the supervisor operates the "Lock" button 701, the control unit 20 determines that a locking instruction has been received (S3: Lock) and proceeds to step S7. When the supervisor operates the "Back" button 502, the control unit 20 determines that no instruction has been received (S3: NO) and returns the process to step S1.

[0119] In step S5 of this example, first, the control unit 20 displays an unlocking condition setting screen 720 on the display unit 21 and accepts the designation of an object. As shown in FIG. 20 , the unlocking condition setting screen 720 is provided with, for example, an object designation field 721, a "Next" button 722, and a "Back" button 723. The object designation field 721 is for the supervisor to designate an object O. The "Back" button 723 is for the supervisor to instruct the supervisor to return to the question set selection screen 510 and start over. The "Next" button 722 is for the supervisor to instruct the supervisor to transition to the next unlocking condition setting screen 730.

[0120] In this example, object information associated with object O is stored in advance in storage unit 23 by the supervisor, and a dependency level is assigned according to object O, with the number of questions and difficulty level increasing as the level increases. For example, object O, "manga," is assigned a dependency level of "2," with a minimum number of questions of "8," a minimum number of correct answers of "4," a minimum number of consecutive correct answers of "4," and a minimum correct answer rate of "50." For example, object O, "smartphone," is assigned a dependency level of "3," with a minimum number of questions of "10," a minimum number of correct answers of "7," a minimum number of consecutive correct answers of "5," and a minimum correct answer rate of "70."

[0121] When the supervisor selects "manga" as the object O on the unlocking condition setting screen 720 and operates the "Next" button 722, the control unit 20 displays the unlocking condition setting screen 730 on the display unit 21 and accepts instructions from the supervisor according to the dependency level of the specified object O. In this example, the control unit 20 accepts an operation for the number of questions of "8" or more on the unlocking condition setting screen 730 and does not accept an operation for "7" or less. Similarly, the control unit 20 accepts an operation for the number of correct answers of "4" or more, for the number of consecutive correct answers of "2" or more, and for the accuracy rate of "50" or more. Then, when the supervisor operates the "Next" button 535, the control unit 20 displays the unlocking condition setting screen 740 on the display unit 21 and accepts instructions related to the timer conditions.

[0122] As shown in FIG. 22, the unlocking condition setting screen 740 has a "Save" button 731 in addition to the displays on the unlocking condition setting screen 580. The "Save" button 731 is used by the supervisor to store the setting information and instruct the system to return to step S1. When the supervisor operates the "Save" button 731 on the unlocking condition setting screen 730, the control unit 20 determines that a save instruction has been issued (S6: Save), generates unlocking setting information 2313, and returns the process to step S1. When the supervisor operates the "Lock" button 542, the control unit 20 determines that a lock instruction has been issued (S6: Lock), and proceeds to step S7. When the supervisor operates the "Back" button 543, it determines that no instruction has been issued (S6: NO), and the system returns to the question set selection screen 510 to start over.

[0123] The object information may include a timer condition. For example, the first timer condition may not be selectable for an object O to which a dependency level of "2" or higher is assigned.

[0124] As shown in FIG. 23, the unlocking setting information 2313 includes an object ID for uniquely identifying the object, a dependency level, the number of questions, answer conditions (number of correct answers, number of consecutive correct answers, correct answer rate), and timer conditions (clear within the time limit, unlock after the time limit has elapsed, accept answer after the time limit has elapsed).

[0125] In this example, the storage system 100 is configured so that a dependency level is assigned according to the object O, and the higher the level, the greater the number of questions and the difficulty level, making it easy to set consistent unlocking conditions according to the dependency level of the object O.

[0126] In addition, the storage system 100 of this example may be configured so that answer conditions and timer conditions are set according to the object O simply by specifying the object O. For example, object information associated with the object O may be stored in the storage unit 23 in advance by the supervisor, and the number of questions, number of correct answers, number of consecutive correct answers or correct answer rate, and timer conditions may be assigned according to the object O. The supervisor may then simply select the object O on the unlocking condition setting screen 720 to generate the unlocking setting information 2313. For example, when a "manga" is specified as the object O, the following conditions are automatically set: number of questions: "8," number of correct answers: "4," and "unlock after 30 minutes." For example, when a "smartphone" is specified as the object O, the following conditions are automatically set: number of questions: "10," number of correct answers: "7," and "clear within 30 minutes." This makes it easier to set the conditions according to the object O.

[0127] The storage system 100 of this example may also be designed to focus on the degree of dependency and specify the degree of dependency. This makes it easy to set stricter unlocking conditions, for example, for the same object O, assuming a higher dependency just before bedtime than for when someone wants to eat sweets in the afternoon.

[0128] The storage device 10 described above may be used by multiple people, such as a family. For example, a grandfather can lock his car keys inside and independently brush up on his driving knowledge through questions to see if he wants to drive. For example, a preschool-aged grandchild can lock toys inside and practice switching between study and play through simple questions. For example, a mother can lock sweets inside to study for a qualification more effectively.

[0129] <Embodiment 2 - Locking System> FIG. 24 shows an example of the appearance of the locking system according to the second embodiment, showing (a) the appearance of the storage device and the locking device (in use), and (b) the appearance of the locking device.

[0130] The locking system of the second embodiment is a system that assists the user in learning during the locked time when the user cannot touch the object O when using the storage device 10. The storage device 10 of the second embodiment is the same as the first embodiment and its variations, except that the components other than the storage section that physically stores the object O are provided in a separate locking device 50.

[0131] That is, locking device 50 for storage device 10 of this embodiment includes locking mechanism 13 for keeping the opening / closing section of storage device 10 closed, input unit 22 for receiving instructions from user U, display unit 21 for displaying information to user U, and control unit 20. When control unit 20 receives an instruction to lock from user U, it locks using locking mechanism 13, and when it receives an instruction to unlock from user U, it displays one or more questions on display unit 21, receives answers from user U to the questions, and if the answers to the questions satisfy predetermined unlocking conditions, it unlocks using locking mechanism 13. An example will be described in more detail below.

[0132] Locking device 50 is, for example, an electronic padlock that does not require a key. Locking device 50 has a main body 51 and a latch 52, and in the unlocked state, an opening F is formed between the two. Main body 51 has two receiving portions therein that respectively receive both ends of latch 52, and when both ends of latch 52 are pressed into the receiving portions, opening F between the tip of latch 52 and the main body 51 is closed.

[0133] Here, locking mechanism 13 for keeping the opening / closing part of the storage unit in a closed state is provided inside main body 51 and on latch 52, and a drive unit is provided inside main body 51. More specifically, locking mechanism 13 is configured to include a pair of recesses 133 provided in latch 52 and a locking member (not shown) provided inside main body 51 so as to appear and disappear from a receiving part. Then, when the drive unit moves the locking member under the control of second means 202 of control unit 20, the locking member engages with recess 133 to enter a locked state, or disengages from recess 133 to enter an unlocked state. The configuration of the drive unit is not particularly limited, and any known technology, such as a motor-type drive including a motor, transmission gear, cam mechanism, etc., can be used as appropriate.

[0134] The touch panel display 14 and the sensor 15 are provided on the main body 51 so as to be operable by the user U. The touch panel display 14 and the sensor 15 are configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment and its modified examples, and similarly constitute a display unit 21 for displaying various information to the user U and / or an input unit 22 for receiving instructions from the user U.

[0135] The control unit 20, storage unit 23, communication unit 24, power supply unit 25, etc. are configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment and its modified example, and are installed inside the main body 51 of the locking device 50.

[0136] The storage device 10 has a ring-shaped portion 112 at the opening 111 of the container 11 and a ring-shaped portion 122 at the lower end 121 of the lid 12, so that the tip of the latch 52 can be passed through the through holes of both ring-shaped portions and hooked onto the locking device 50.

[0137] The locking device 50 is locked by the supervisor operating the "lock" button after engaging the locking device 50 on the storage unit in step S6 or step S3, and then pushing the latch 52 into the main body 51. In other words, in this embodiment, the supervisor must close the opening and closing part of the storage unit and then close the locking device 50 before locking. Other operations are the same as those described above, and detailed explanations will be omitted.

[0138] In this way, the locking system of this embodiment can be widely applied regardless of the configuration or location of the storage unit, since the locking device 50 is detachably installed in the storage unit.

[0139] In the storage device 10 of this embodiment, the storage section for storing the object O may be something other than the locking container described above, and for example, the opening and closing section of the storage section may be configured with a zipper or the like. In this case, the locking device 50 can be used by, for example, hanging it on the holes in both sliders of the zipper. Alternatively, it can be used by hanging it on the slider of the zipper and a ring provided near the end of the zipper on the main body.

[0140] <Embodiment 3 - Storage System> 25 shows an example of the configuration of a storage system according to embodiment 3. The storage system 100 of this embodiment is a system that assists the user in studying during a locked time when the user cannot touch the object O when using the storage device 10. The storage system 100 of this embodiment differs from the above embodiment 1 and its variations mainly in that it includes a terminal device 80.

[0141] The storage system 100 of the above-mentioned embodiment 1 and its modified example has the first means 201 of the control unit 20 for providing study support during the locked time, the display unit 21, the input unit 22, and the memory unit 23 arranged in the storage device 10, and if the question set data is stored in the second memory unit 232 in advance, study support during the locked time can be provided using only the storage device 10, eliminating the need for other devices.

[0142] On the other hand, it is also conceivable to configure the first means 201, display unit 21, input unit 22, and memory unit 23 separately from the storage device 10. As an example, when the user U has a terminal device for learning at hand, it is considered that this familiar terminal device is easy to use in terms of operability, etc. For example, learning using tablet PCs is becoming common in current school education (for example, education for junior and senior high school students), and it is conceivable that a general-purpose terminal device such as this tablet PC could be made to take on some of the learning support functions. It is also conceivable to use a dedicated terminal device.

[0143] The storage system 100 of this embodiment is designed to meet such a need, and includes a terminal device 80 equipped with a first means 201, a display unit 21, an input unit 22, and a storage unit 23. The terminal device 80 is, for example, a general-purpose terminal device such as a tablet PC, but may also be configured as a dedicated terminal device.

[0144] As shown in the figure, the terminal device 80 is equipped with a control unit 81 having a first means 201. The control unit 81 is configured to include one or more processors such as a CPU, MPU, or GPU, and by executing a predetermined program, realizes the UI function and the unlocking condition setting function, similar to the first means 201, and issues instructions to the second means 202 of the storage device 10 via the communication unit 82 described below and the communication unit 24 of the storage device 10, thereby realizing the locking function and unlocking function in cooperation with the second means 202.

[0145] The terminal device 80 has, for example, a touch panel display, which constitutes the display unit 21 and input unit 22. The terminal device 80 has RAM, flash memory, a hard disk, an SSD, etc., which constitute the storage unit 23. The terminal device 80 is connected to the network N via wired or wireless communication, and has one or more communication units 82 for connecting to the storage device 10 via wired or wireless communication. In this embodiment, the terminal device 80 also serves as the external storage medium 30.

[0146] In this embodiment, storage device 10 includes a storage section, a locking section 19 including locking mechanism 13, a control section 26 having second means 202, a communication section 24, and a power supply section 25. As in the first embodiment and its modifications, the storage section includes a container 11 and a lid 12, is provided with locking section 19 including locking mechanism 13, and has communication section 24 and power supply section 25 arranged therein.

[0147] In this embodiment, when the control unit 26 of the storage device 10 receives a locking or unlocking instruction from the first means 201 of the terminal device 80 via the communication unit 24, the second means 202 controls the locking mechanism 13 to lock or unlock, as in the above embodiment 1 and its modified examples.

[0148] As described above, the storage system 100 of this embodiment includes a terminal device 80 that controls the storage device 10 that stores the object. When the terminal device 80 receives a locking instruction from the user, it locks the storage device 10 using the locking mechanism 13. When the terminal device 80 receives an unlocking instruction from the user, it displays one or more questions and accepts the user's answers to those questions. If the answers to those questions satisfy predetermined unlocking conditions, it unlocks the storage device using the locking mechanism 13.

[0149] By configuring the storage system 100 of this embodiment in this way, the storage device 10 can be simply configured, and costs can be reduced.

[0150] <Embodiment 4 - Locking System> The locking system of this embodiment is a system that assists the user in learning during the locked time when the user cannot touch the object O when using the storage device 10. Although not shown, the locking system of this embodiment differs from the locking system of the second embodiment mainly in that it includes a terminal device 80 similar to that of the third embodiment.

[0151] The locking system of the above-mentioned embodiment 2 has a first means 201 for providing study support during the locked time, a display unit 21, an input unit 22, and a memory unit 23 arranged in the locking device 50, and if question set data is stored in advance in the second memory unit 232 of the locking device 50, study support during the locked time can be provided using only the locking device 50, which is advantageous in that no other equipment is required.

[0152] On the other hand, it is also possible to configure the first means 201, the display unit 21, the input unit 22, and the memory unit 23 separately from the locking device 50. The locking system of this embodiment is designed to meet such a need, and is configured to include a terminal device 80 that is equipped with the first means 201, the display unit 21, the input unit 22, and the memory unit 23. The terminal device 80 is configured in the same manner as in the third embodiment, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

[0153] Similar to the second embodiment, the locking device 50 has a main body 51 and a latch 52, and is equipped with a locking mechanism 13, a communication unit 24, and a power supply unit 25. Unlike the second embodiment, the locking device 50 is equipped with a control unit 26 having only the second means 202, and does not have the first means 201, the display unit 21, the input unit 22, or the memory unit 23. Similar to the second embodiment, the storage unit has a ring-shaped portion 112 at the opening 111 of the container 11 and a ring-shaped portion 122 at the bottom end 121 of the lid 12, so that the tip of the latch 52 can be passed through the through-holes of both ring-shaped portions and hooked onto the locking device 50.

[0154] In this embodiment, when the control unit 26 of the locking device 50 receives a locking or unlocking instruction from the first means 201 of the terminal device 80 via the communication unit 24, the second means 202 controls the locking mechanism 13 to lock or unlock, as in the above embodiment 1 and its variants.

[0155] As described above, the locking system of this embodiment includes a terminal device 80 that controls the locking device 50. When the terminal device 80 receives a locking instruction from the user, it locks the device using the locking mechanism 13 of the locking device 50. When the terminal device 80 receives an unlocking instruction from the user, it displays one or more questions and accepts the user's answers to these questions. If the answers to these questions satisfy the specified unlocking conditions, the locking mechanism 13 unlocks the device.

[0156] By configuring the locking system of this embodiment in this way, the locking device 50 can be simply configured, and costs can be reduced.

[0157] The storage system, locking system, storage method, and program according to the present invention have been described above, but these are merely examples of the present invention and the present invention is not limited to these. The present invention also includes combinations of the above-described embodiments and their modifications, as well as various other modifications. Various additions, modifications, and partial deletions are possible within the scope of the conceptual idea and spirit of the present invention as derived from the content defined in the claims and their equivalents.

[0158] Furthermore, some or all of the above-described configurations, functions, processing units, processing means, etc. may be implemented in hardware, for example, by designing them as integrated circuits. Furthermore, the above-described configurations, functions, etc. may be implemented in software by a processor interpreting and executing a program that implements each function. Information such as programs, tables, and files that implement each function may be stored in memory, a storage device such as a hard disk or SSD, or a storage medium such as an IC card, SD card, or DVD. Furthermore, the control lines and information lines shown are those considered necessary for explanation, and do not necessarily represent all control lines and information lines in the product. In reality, it can be assumed that almost all components are interconnected. [Explanation of symbols]

[0159] 10...storage device, 11...container, 12...lid, 13...locking mechanism, 14...touch panel display, 15...sensor, 19...locking unit, 20...control unit, 21...display unit, 22...input unit, 23...memory unit, 24...communication unit, 25...power supply unit, 30...external storage medium, 40...question collection database, 50...locking device, 51...main body, latch...52, 100...storage system, 500...locking home screen, 510...question collection selection screen, 520...unlocking condition setting screen, 600...unlocking home screen, 610...question screen, 620...unlocking confirmation screen, 2311...question setting information, 2312...unlocking setting information.

Claims

1. A storage system for storing objects, comprising: a container having an opening; a lid for closing the opening of the container; a locking mechanism for locking or unlocking the lid to the container; an input unit for receiving instructions from a user; a display for displaying information to a user; a control unit, The control unit When a locking instruction is received from the user, the locking mechanism locks the door. When receiving an instruction to unlock from the user, display one or more questions on the display unit and receive answers from the user to the questions; If the answer to the question satisfies a predetermined unlocking condition, the locking mechanism unlocks the door. A storage system characterized by:

2. The control unit Before locking, the user is asked to select a question set from a list of questions. When an instruction to unlock is received, the problem is selected from the selected question collection and displayed on the display unit.

2. The storage system of claim 1.

3. The unlocking condition is a predetermined number of correct answers, a predetermined number of consecutive correct answers, or a correct answer rate.

3. The storage system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The control unit When the answer to the question satisfies the unlocking condition, or when the cumulative answer time exceeds a predetermined time, the locking mechanism unlocks the door.

4. The storage system of claim 3.

5. The control unit If the answer to the question satisfies the unlocking condition and the answer time is within a predetermined time, the locking mechanism unlocks the door.

4. The storage system of claim 3.

6. The control unit If the answer to the question satisfies the unlocking condition, the locking mechanism unlocks the door after a predetermined time has elapsed.

4. The storage system of claim 3.

7. The control unit When an instruction to unlock is received from the user, the problem is displayed on the display unit after a predetermined time has elapsed, and an answer to the problem is received from the user.

4. The storage system of claim 3.

8. The control unit Accepting a designation of an object from a user and setting the unlocking conditions according to the designated object 3. The storage system according to claim 1 or 2.

9. A locking system for a storage device that stores an object, a locking mechanism for holding the opening and closing part of the storage device in a closed state; an input unit for receiving instructions from a user; a display for displaying information to a user; a control unit, The control unit When a locking instruction is received from the user, the locking mechanism locks the door. When receiving an instruction to unlock from the user, display one or more questions on the display unit and receive answers from the user to the questions; If the answer to the question satisfies a predetermined unlocking condition, the locking mechanism unlocks the door. A locking system characterized by:

10. A storage method using a storage system for storing an object or a locking system for a storage device for storing an object, comprising: a step of locking the door by a locking mechanism when a locking instruction is received from a user; a step of displaying one or more questions and accepting answers from the user to the questions when an instruction to unlock is received from the user; and unlocking the lock using the lock mechanism if the answer to the question satisfies a predetermined unlocking condition. A storage method characterized by:

11. A storage device for storing an object or a locking device for the storage device, a step of locking the door by a locking mechanism when a locking instruction is received from a user; a step of displaying one or more questions and accepting answers from the user to the questions when an instruction to unlock is received from the user; If the answer to the question satisfies a predetermined unlocking condition, the step of unlocking the door by the lock mechanism is executed. A program characterized by:

12. A terminal device that controls a storage device that stores an object or a locking device for the storage device, When receiving a locking instruction from a user, locking the storage device using a locking mechanism of the storage device or the locking device; a step of displaying one or more questions and accepting answers from the user to the questions when an instruction to unlock is received from the user; If the answer to the question satisfies a predetermined unlocking condition, the step of unlocking the door by the lock mechanism is executed. A program characterized by:

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