Storage system, method of controlling the same, and program

Abstract

To provide a storage system, method of controlling the same, and program, which allow a user to more naturally refer to an image of an advertisement or the like when using a storage unit.SOLUTION: A storage system 1 is provided, comprising multiple storage units 11, each having a door 11a, arranged next to each other vertically and horizontally in in-plane directions, a display 13 provided on each door 11a to display an image, an interface 121 for outputting information on a storage unit 11 when a corresponding door is opened or closed, and a control unit 20 configured to designate a door 11a for displaying an image according to the position of the storage unit 11 identified from the information and cause a display 13 of the designated door 11a to display an image.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a storage system having a plurality of storage units arranged side by side in an in-plane direction, and a control method and program for the storage system. [Background technology]

[0002] Lockers are installed in stations and commercial facilities for the temporary storage of luggage. Typically, a locker has multiple storage compartments arranged in a matrix along the in-plane direction. Recently, the availability and locking / unlocking of each storage compartment are centrally managed by a control unit. Users can use the desired storage compartment via an interface connected to the control unit.

[0003] The following Patent Document 1 describes a storage device that includes lockers with displays installed on the doors of each storage compartment and a control device that controls the open / closed state of the lockers. In this storage device, the control device executes two modes: an independent display mode in which an image is displayed independently for each door, and a full-screen display mode in which an integrated image is displayed in coordination across multiple displays. In the independent display mode, usage information (vacant / occupied information) for using the lockers is provided, and in the full-screen display mode, a predetermined advertisement is displayed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-137333 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Advertisers want the ads displayed on the lockers to be seen by as many passersby as possible. However, it is likely that many passersby will pass by without noticing the lockers. Also, if the aisle in front of the lockers is crowded, passersby may not be able to see the ads at all.

[0006] Even under such circumstances, users using the lockers are likely to pay attention to the advertisement. In this case, if an advertisement is displayed in a large size aimed at passersby, as in Patent Document 1, the distance between the user and the advertisement is too close for the size of the advertisement, and the user is unable to easily grasp the content of the advertisement. Furthermore, even if an advertisement is displayed in a location far from the storage unit that the user is using, the user will not be able to naturally refer to the advertisement when using the storage unit. Therefore, it is necessary to display advertisements on the doors of each storage unit so that users can more naturally refer to them when using the storage unit.

[0007] In view of the above problem, the present invention aims to provide a storage system, a control method for the storage system, and a program that allow users to more naturally refer to images such as advertisements when using a storage unit. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A first aspect of the present invention relates to a storage system, which includes a plurality of storage units arranged side by side in an in-plane direction, each having a door, a display unit that displays an image on each of the doors, an output unit that outputs information about the storage unit when an operation to open the door is performed, and a control unit that sets the door that will display the image according to the position of the storage unit identified by the information, and causes the display unit to display the image for the set door.

[0009] According to the storage system of this aspect, the door for displaying the image is set according to the position of the storage unit where the user performs an operation to open the door, so that the user can naturally refer to the image of the advertisement or the like when using their own storage unit.

[0010] In the storage system according to this aspect, the door is configured to be lockable and is provided with an interface that accepts an operation to unlock the door for each storage unit, and the interface can be configured to output information identifying the storage unit for which the unlocking operation was performed to the interface as the information about the storage unit for which the operation to open the door was performed.

[0011] According to this configuration, the door for displaying the image is set according to the location of the storage unit that the user unlocked via the interface, so that the user can naturally refer to the image of the advertisement or the like when heading to the storage unit where their luggage will be stored after unlocking the interface.

[0012] In the storage system according to this aspect, the control unit may be configured to include the door of the storage unit identified by the information in the display targets of the image from the time an unlocking operation is performed on the interface until the door is opened, and to remove the door of the storage unit identified by the information from the display targets of the image after the door is opened.

[0013] According to this configuration, after the user unlocks the interface, when the user heads to the storage unit where he or she will store his or her luggage, an image is displayed on the door containing the storage unit the user is using, allowing the user to smoothly view the image. Furthermore, when the user subsequently opens the door of the storage unit, the door is removed from the image display targets, preventing the image from continuing to be displayed on the open door that makes it difficult to provide the image properly. Furthermore, in this case, the door for displaying the image is set according to the location of the storage unit the user is using, allowing the user to smoothly view the image even after the door is opened.

[0014] The storage system according to this aspect includes a sensor that detects the opening of the door, and the sensor can be configured to output the detection result in response to the opening of the door as information about the storage unit where the operation related to opening the door was performed.

[0015] According to this configuration, the door for displaying the image is set according to the position of the storage section opened by the user, so that the user can naturally view the image of the advertisement or the like after opening the door.

[0016] In the storage system according to this aspect, the control unit may be configured to include the door of the storage unit for which an operation related to opening the door has been performed in the doors for which the image is displayed.

[0017] According to this configuration, the image is displayed on the door of the storage unit that the user uses, so the user can smoothly view the image of the advertisement or the like.

[0018] In addition, in the storage system according to this aspect, the control unit may be configured to include a specific door in the vicinity of the storage unit where an operation to open the door has been performed as one of the doors for which the image is displayed.

[0019] According to this configuration, an image is displayed on the door near the storage unit that the user uses, so the user can smoothly view images such as advertisements.

[0020] In this case, the control unit may be configured to include the door of a predetermined storage unit adjacent to the storage unit on which an operation to open the door has been performed in the doors for which the image is displayed.

[0021] According to this configuration, the image is displayed on the door next to the storage unit that the user uses, so the user can smoothly refer to the image of the advertisement or the like.

[0022] In the storage system according to this aspect, the control unit may be configured to remove the door of the storage unit adjacent to the door in the direction of door opening from the door that displays the image for the storage unit in which an operation to open the door has been performed.

[0023] With this configuration, the adjacent door that is hidden by the open door is excluded from the display of the image, allowing the user to smoothly view the image.

[0024] In the storage system according to this aspect, the control unit may be configured to display an image on a specific door when no operation is performed to open the door, and to differentiate the image when no operation is performed from the image when the operation is performed.

[0025] With this configuration, when there is no user using the storage unit, an image for passersby can be displayed, and when there is a user using the storage unit, an image for the user can be displayed. Therefore, not only the user but also passersby can smoothly refer to the image.

[0026] In this configuration, the control unit can be configured to reduce the number of doors for which the image is displayed when the operation is performed from the number of doors for which the image is displayed when the operation is not performed.

[0027] With this configuration, when there is no user using the storage unit, a large image can be displayed that is easy to see for passersby who are far from the door, and when there is a user using the storage unit, a small image can be displayed that is easy to see for users who are closer to the door. This allows both the user and passersby to smoothly view the image according to each situation.

[0028] In addition, in this configuration, the storage system is provided with an interface for receiving input from an administrator of the storage system, and the control unit can be configured to receive via the interface whether or not to perform display processing of the image when an operation related to opening the door is performed.

[0029] This configuration allows the administrator of the storage system to freely set whether or not to execute the mode that displays images for users, thereby improving convenience for the administrator.

[0030] In the storage system according to this aspect, the display unit may be a display disposed on the surface of the door.

[0031] According to this configuration, the display that displays the image can be adjusted according to the position of the storage unit that the user uses, so that the image can be displayed on the door that is the display target.

[0032] Alternatively, the display unit may be a projector that projects an image onto the surface of the door. According to this configuration, the projection range of the image by the projector is adjusted according to the position of the storage unit used by the user, so that the image can be displayed on the door that is the display target.

[0033] In the storage system according to this aspect, the image displayed on the door may be an advertising image containing advertising information.

[0034] According to this configuration, the advertising image can be smoothly displayed to the user who uses the storage unit, and the advertising effect on the user can be improved.

[0035] In the storage system according to this aspect, the image displayed on the door may be a notification image containing predetermined notification information different from advertising information, or an entertainment image containing information to entertain users of the storage unit.

[0036] According to this configuration, notification images and entertainment images can be smoothly displayed to the user using the storage unit, and useful information and entertaining images can be provided to the user.

[0037] A second aspect of the present invention relates to a control method for a storage system including a plurality of storage units arranged side by side in an in-plane direction, each having a door, and a display unit that displays an image on each of the doors. The control method according to this aspect acquires information about the storage unit where an operation to open the door has been performed, sets the door that will display the image according to the position of the storage unit identified by the information, and causes the display unit to display the image for the set door.

[0038] A third aspect of the present invention relates to a program for causing a control unit of a storage system including a plurality of storage units arranged side by side in an in-plane direction, each having a door, and a display unit for displaying an image on each of the doors, to execute predetermined functions. The program according to this aspect causes the control unit to acquire information about the storage unit on which an operation to open the door has been performed, set the door on which the image is to be displayed according to the position of the storage unit identified by the information, and display an image on the display unit for the set door.

[0039] According to the second and third aspects of the present invention, the same effects as those of the first aspect can be achieved. [Effects of the Invention]

[0040] As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a storage system, a control method for a storage system, and a program that allow a user to more naturally refer to images such as advertisements when using a storage unit.

[0041] The effects and significance of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description of the embodiments, however, the embodiments shown below are merely examples of how the present invention can be implemented, and the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0042] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a storage system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the configuration of the rocker device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] 3(a) and 3(b) are front views showing the configuration of the panel unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a front view showing the configuration of the settlement unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a circuit unit of the storage system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of an initial screen displayed on the interface of the settlement unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the configuration of a confirmation screen displayed on the interface of the settlement unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the configuration of a settlement screen displayed on the interface of the settlement unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the configuration of a take-out screen displayed on the interface of the checkout unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] Fig. 10(a) is a flowchart showing the display processing of an advertisement image according to embodiment 1. Fig. 10(b) is a flowchart showing the processing of a second mode according to embodiment 1. [Figure 11] Fig. 11(a) is a diagram showing an example of a method for setting doors used to display advertising images in the second mode according to embodiment 1. Fig. 11(b) is a diagram showing an example of setting locker numbers for each storage unit according to embodiment 1. [Figure 12] 12(a) to 12(c) are diagrams schematically showing a method of displaying an advertising image in the first mode and the second mode according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of setting the display range in the first mode according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of setting the display range in the second mode according to the first embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of setting the display range in the second mode according to the first embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of setting the display range in the second mode according to the first embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of setting the display range in the second mode according to the first embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a method for setting a display range according to the first modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a method for setting a display range according to the first modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a method for setting a display range according to the first modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the processing in the second mode according to the second modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing the range (display range) of the door reset during the processing in the second mode according to the second modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 23] Fig. 23(a) is a flowchart showing a display process of an advertisement image according to Modification 3 of Embodiment 1. Fig. 23(b) is a flowchart showing a process of a second mode according to Modification 3 of Embodiment 1. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a display process of an advertisement image according to the fourth modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a diagram showing the configuration of a storage system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a diagram showing the configuration of a storage system according to another configuration example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0043] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0044] <Embodiment 1> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a storage system 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0045] The storage system 1 includes a locker device 10 and a control unit 20. The locker device 10 and the control unit 20 are installed in stations, commercial facilities, and the like.

[0046] The locker device 10 comprises a plurality of storage sections 11 arranged in a matrix in the in-plane direction, and an adjustment unit 12. Each storage section 11 has a door 11a that can be opened and closed. Here, each door 11a has a left-opening configuration that rotates around an axis near the left side. When the door 11a is opened, the luggage storage space is opened. Each door 11a can be locked. After luggage has been stored in a storage space, the payment is made using the adjustment unit 12, and the door 11a of that storage space is locked. The adjustment unit 12 has an interface 121, which will be described later.

[0047] The control unit 20 is configured with an information processing device such as a personal computer, and is built into the locker device 10. However, this is not limiting, and the control unit 20 may be mounted on the checkout unit 12 as a control board. The control unit 20 controls the checkout unit 12 to perform checkout for use of the locker device 10. Once luggage has been stored in a specified storage section 11 and the checkout has been completed, the control unit 20 locks the door 11a of that storage section 11.

[0048] The control unit 20 also communicates with the server 30 via an external communication network 40 such as the Internet. The control unit 20 acquires image information from the server 30. In this embodiment, this image information is an advertising image including advertising information. The advertising image is provided by an advertiser to an administrator of the server 30, and is registered in the server 30 by the administrator of the server 30. The control unit 20 stores the image information of the advertising image acquired from the server 30, and uses the stored image information to display the advertising image on a predetermined door 11a of the locker device 10.

[0049] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the configuration of the rocker device 10. As shown in FIG.

[0050] A display 13 is provided on the surface of each door 11a. The display 13 is formed, for example, from a liquid crystal panel. The size of the display 13 is slightly smaller than the size of the surface of the door 11a. The control unit 20 in FIG. 1 displays the above-mentioned advertising image obtained from the server 30 on the display 13 of a specified door 11a. A handle 11b is provided on the right end of each door 11a to be gripped when opening or closing the door 11a. A label (not shown) bearing the locker number is attached to the upper right corner of each door 11a. A panel unit 14 is provided in the space to the right of each door 11a to be used when using the door 11a.

[0051] 3(a) and 3(b) are front views showing the configuration of the panel unit 14. FIG.

[0052] Fig. 3(a) shows the state of the panel unit 14 when the storage compartment 11 immediately to the left of the panel unit 14 is empty. Fig. 3(b) shows the state of the panel unit 14 when the storage compartment 11 immediately to the left of the panel unit 14 is in use.

[0053] The panel unit 14 includes a lighting area 141, a message area 142, a temporary lock operation unit 143, and a keyhole 144. The keyhole 144 is used by the manager of the locker device 10 to open the door 11a with a key in an emergency.

[0054] The lighting area 141 lights up when the storage unit 11 immediately to the left of the panel unit 14 is empty, notifying the user that the storage unit 11 is available for use. In this example, the lighting area 141 lights up in green. As a result, as shown in FIG. 3(a), the lighting area 141 emits green light, and the word "available" appears within the lighting area 141. When the storage unit 11 immediately to the left of the panel unit 14 is in use, the lighting area 141 goes out, and the word "available" disappears, as shown in FIG. 3(b). The user can determine which storage units 11 are available for use by referring to the lighting area 141.

[0055] The message area 142 shows the operating procedure for the storage unit 11 and the panel unit 14. That is, the message area 142 shows that luggage should be placed in the storage unit 11 immediately to the left of the panel unit 14 and that the lever 143a of the temporary lock operating unit 143 should be lowered.

[0056] The temporary lock operation unit 143 has a lever 143a for operating the temporary lock and a mark 143b that indicates the unlocked state. The lever 143a and the mark 143b can move up and down together along a rectangular opening that forms the outline of the temporary lock operation unit 143.

[0057] When a user stores baggage in the storage unit 11 during deposit, the user pushes the lever 143a downward from the state shown in FIG. 3(a) to the state shown in FIG. 3(b). This temporarily locks the door 11a of the storage unit 11. This operation is detected by a sensor in the locking unit 212 (see FIG. 5), and the detection result is output to the control unit 20. In response to this, the control unit 20 causes the lighting area 141 of the panel unit 14 to flash, as described below.

[0058] FIG. 4 is a front view showing the configuration of the settlement unit 12.

[0059] The settlement unit 12 includes an interface 121, a barcode reader 122, a card reader 123, a bill deposit / withdrawal port 124, a coin deposit port 125, a return lever 126, a coin withdrawal port 127, a first ticket issuing port 128a, and a second ticket issuing port 128b.

[0060] The interface 121 displays predetermined information and accepts inputs on the display. The interface 121 is configured, for example, by a touch panel. The barcode reader 122 reads the barcode on the withdrawal ticket issued from the second ticket issuing port 128b when paying with cash. Here, a two-dimensional barcode is printed on the withdrawal ticket. In this case, the barcode reader 122 is a two-dimensional barcode reader. However, this is not limiting, and the barcode printed on the withdrawal ticket may be a one-dimensional barcode.

[0061] Card reader 123 reads information from an IC card. Here, card reader 123 reads user information from the user's IC card using the RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) method. Therefore, the user's IC card is configured in accordance with the RFID method. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and card reader 123 may be configured to read user information from a card on which user information is recorded magnetically.

[0062] The bill deposit / withdrawal slot 124 is used by the user to deposit bills and to dispense bills and undamaged notes as change during the settlement process. The coin deposit slot 125 is used by the user to deposit coins during the settlement process. The return lever 126 is used by the user to return coins inserted into the coin deposit slot 125. The coin withdrawal slot 127 is used by the user to dispense coins and undamaged coins as change during the settlement process.

[0063] The first ticket issuing port 128a issues a usage certificate when a user uses an IC card to pay for depositing luggage. The second ticket issuing port 128b issues a removal ticket when a user uses cash to pay for depositing luggage. The removal ticket is used to remove the deposited luggage from the storage unit 11. In this case, the barcode printed on the removal ticket serves as a key to unlock the door 11a. When payment is made using an IC card, the door is unlocked using the IC card. In other words, in this case, the IC card serves as a key to unlock the door 11a.

[0064] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the circuit section of the storage system 1. As shown in FIG.

[0065] The storage system 1 includes a control unit 20 that includes a control unit 201, a storage unit 202, and a communication unit 203.

[0066] The control unit 201 includes an arithmetic processing circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and controls each display 13 of the locker device 10 according to a program stored in the storage unit 202. The storage unit 202 includes memory such as a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and a hard disk, and stores the program. The storage unit 202 is also used as a work area when the control unit 201 executes the program.

[0067] The communication unit 203 transmits image information of the advertising image to the transmitter 230 under the control of the control unit 201. Also, the communication unit 203 communicates with the control unit 221 of the settlement unit 12 under the control of the control unit 201. Furthermore, the communication unit 203 communicates with the server 30 via the external communication network 40 shown in FIG. 1.

[0068] The storage unit 202 stores layout information indicating the layout of the storage units 11 in the locker device 10, and locker management information linking each storage unit 11 on the layout with a locker number. This information is set by the manager or installer of the locker device 10. This setting may be performed by connecting a dedicated terminal to the control unit 20, or by displaying a setting screen on the interface 121.

[0069] The locker device 10 is provided with a set of a display 13, a light-emitting unit 211, a locking unit 212, and an opening / closing sensor 213 for each storage unit 11. In other words, the locker device 10 is provided with the same number of sets of a display 13, a light-emitting unit 211, a locking unit 212, and an opening / closing sensor 213 as the number of storage units 11 arranged in the locker device 10.

[0070] 3(a) and 3(b) and a control circuit for the light source of the lighting area 141. The light source of the lighting area 141 is configured by, for example, an LED that emits green light.

[0071] The locking unit 212 includes a locking mechanism that locks the door 11a of the corresponding storage unit 11 and its control circuit, and locks and unlocks the door 11a under the control of the control unit 221 of the settlement unit 12. The temporary lock operation unit 143 shown in Figures 3(a) and (b) is included in the locking mechanism. As described above, the locking unit 212 includes a sensor that detects the operation of the lever 143a, and transmits the detection result of the sensor to the control unit 221 of the settlement unit 12.

[0072] The opening / closing sensor 213 detects whether the door 11 a of the corresponding storage unit 11 is open or closed, and outputs the detection result to the control unit 221 of the settlement unit 12.

[0073] The settlement unit 12 includes a control unit 221, a storage unit 222, a communication unit 223, a cash deposit / withdrawal unit 224, and a ticket issuing unit 225, in addition to the interface 121, barcode reader 122, and card reader 123 shown in FIG.

[0074] The control unit 221 includes a processing circuit such as a CPU, and controls each unit according to a program stored in the storage unit 222. The storage unit 222 includes memory such as a ROM and a RAM, and stores the program. The storage unit 222 is also used as a work area when the control unit 221 executes the program. The storage unit 222 stores the same layout information and locker management information as described above.

[0075] The communication unit 223 communicates with the control unit 201 of the control unit 20 under the control of the control unit 221. The communication unit 223 also communicates with the light emitting unit 211, the locking unit 212, and the opening / closing sensor 213 of each storage unit 11 under the control of the control unit 221.

[0076] The deposit / withdrawal unit 224 deposits and withdraws banknotes and coins to / from the banknote deposit / withdrawal port 124, the coin deposit port 125, and the coin withdrawal port 127. The deposit / withdrawal unit 224 has a transport mechanism that transports banknotes and coins along a transport path, an identification unit that identifies the denominations of banknotes and coins on the transport path, and a plurality of banknote storage units and a plurality of coin storage units that store deposited banknotes and coins by denomination. The transport path for banknotes is connected to the banknote deposit / withdrawal port 124 and the plurality of banknote storage units in FIG. 4. The transport path for coins is connected to the coin deposit port 125, the coin withdrawal port 127, and the plurality of coin storage units in FIG. 4.

[0077] The ticket issuing unit 225 issues the above-mentioned usage certificate and removal ticket from the first ticket issuing port 128a and the second ticket issuing port 128b in Fig. 4. The ticket issuing unit 225 includes a printing unit that prints a two-dimensional barcode that serves as key information for unlocking, as well as the locker number and usage details on roll paper, and a cutting unit that cuts the roll paper printed by the printing unit to a predetermined length to generate the corresponding usage certificate and removal ticket.

[0078] The transmitter 230 outputs the image information of the advertising image received from the control unit 201 of the control unit 20 to the corresponding display 13. The control unit 201 transmits the image information to be displayed on each target display 13 to the transmitter 230 along with the identification information of the display 13. The transmitter 230 outputs the image information to the display 13 corresponding to the received identification information. As a result, the image constituting the advertising image is displayed on the corresponding display 13. The installer of the storage system 1 has configured the transmitter 230 and the control unit 20 in advance to distribute this kind of image information.

[0079] The repeater 240 outputs a control signal received from the control unit 221 of the settlement unit 12 to the corresponding light emitting unit 211 or locking unit 212, and outputs detection signals received from the locking unit 212 and the opening / closing sensor 213 to the control unit 221.

[0080] When lighting or blinking a predetermined light-emitting unit 211, the control unit 221 outputs a control signal for that purpose to the repeater 240 together with the identification information of the corresponding light-emitting unit 211. The repeater 240 outputs the control signal to the light-emitting unit 211 corresponding to the received identification information. As a result, the corresponding light-emitting unit 211 performs a lighting or blinking operation.

[0081] When locking a specific locking unit 212, the control unit 221 outputs a control signal for that purpose to the repeater 240 together with the identification information of the corresponding locking unit 212. The repeater 240 outputs the control signal to the locking unit 212 corresponding to the received identification information. As a result, the corresponding locking unit 212 performs a locking operation.

[0082] When a specific locking unit 212 is temporarily locked, the locking unit 212 outputs a detection signal indicating this to the repeater 240. The repeater 240 transmits the received detection signal to the control unit 221 together with the identification information of the locking unit 212. This enables the control unit 221 to determine that the door 11a corresponding to the locking unit 212 is temporarily locked.

[0083] When a specific door 11a is opened or closed, the opening / closing sensor 213 of that door 11a outputs a detection signal indicating this to the repeater 240. The repeater 240 transmits the received detection signal together with the identification information of that opening / closing sensor 213 to the control unit 221. As a result, the control unit 221 determines that the door 11a corresponding to that opening / closing sensor 213 has been opened or closed.

[0084] The installer of the storage system 1 has previously configured the relay device 240 and the settlement unit 12 with settings for transmitting, receiving, and determining such signals.

[0085] <Baggage check-in> The process of depositing luggage in the locker device 10 will now be described.

[0086] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of an initial screen 300 displayed on the interface 121 of the settlement unit 12.

[0087] The initial screen 300 has a message 301 prompting the user to select a usage option (deposit / withdraw / balance inquiry / locker usage method), a selection button 302 for selecting to deposit luggage, a selection button 303 for selecting to withdraw luggage, a selection button 304 for checking the balance of the IC card, and a selection button 305 for viewing instructions on how to use the locker. When depositing luggage in the locker device 10, the user touches selection button 302. This causes the screen to transition to a sequence for depositing luggage.

[0088] If the user wants to check the remaining amount of money loaded on their IC card before depositing their luggage, they touch the selection button 304. This causes the screen to change to a balance inquiry screen. The user follows the instructions on the screen and holds their card over the card reader 123. This causes the card reader 123 to read user information including the balance held on the card, and the balance is displayed on the screen. The user then touches a button to return the screen to the initial screen 300. This causes the initial screen 300 to be displayed again on the interface 121.

[0089] If the user wants to know how to use the locker device 10 before depositing their luggage, they touch the selection button 305. This causes the screen to change to a screen that presents how to use the locker device 10. This screen displays a video of how to use the locker device 10. The user then touches a button to return the screen to the initial screen 300. This causes the initial screen 300 to be displayed again on the interface 121.

[0090] When the user touches the selection button 302, a message prompting the user to place the luggage in the desired storage unit 11 and temporarily lock the door 11a is displayed on the interface 121. In response to this, the user places the luggage in the storage unit 11 selected by the user from among the empty storage units 11 and temporarily locks the door 11a. The locking unit 212 transmits a detection signal of the temporary lock to the control unit 221 of the settlement unit 12 via the relay device 240. As a result, the control unit 221 displays the confirmation screen 310 of FIG. 7 on the interface 121.

[0091] In parallel with this, the control unit 221 transmits a control signal for blinking the lighting area 141 of the temporarily locked door 11a to the light emitting unit 211 of the lighting area 141 via the repeater 240. As a result, the lighting area 141 blinks.

[0092] The confirmation screen 310 includes a message 311, a layout image 312, and a cancel button 313. The message 311 notifies the user to lock the door 11a of the storage unit 11, which is displayed in green in the layout image 312. Here, the hatched area (grid 312a) of the door 11a with locker number "7" is colored green in the layout image 312. Furthermore, the message 311 includes content that urges the user to confirm the locker number and position of the storage unit 11 where the user has deposited their luggage, and then touch the green area (grid 312a) of the door 11a.

[0093] The layout image 312 is generated based on the above-mentioned layout information and locker management information stored in the memory unit 222. The layout image 312 shows the layout of the multiple storage units 11 (doors 11a) in the locker device 10 using squares 312a. The layout image 312 also includes an image 312b showing the area of ​​the settlement unit 12 in the locker device 10. The squares 312a of the storage units 11 corresponding to the locking unit 212 that output the temporary lock detection result are colored green, and the locker number is also added.

[0094] If the green area (grid 312a) displayed in the layout image 312 does not correspond to the storage unit 11 in which the user has stored their luggage, the user touches the cancel button 313. This causes the control unit 221 to display the initial screen 300 of FIG. 6 on the interface 121. In this case, the user simply pushes up the lever 143a (see FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b)) of the storage unit 11 in which the user has stored their luggage to unlock the temporary lock on the door 11a, and then removes the luggage from the storage unit 11. Thereafter, the user simply selects another storage unit 11 as the storage target for the luggage, and repeats the same steps as above.

[0095] When the user confirms that the green area (grid 312a) displayed in the layout image 312 corresponds to the storage section 11 in which the user has stored their luggage, the user touches the green area. This causes the control unit 221 to display the settlement screen 320 of FIG. 8 on the interface 121.

[0096] The settlement screen 320 in Figure 8 includes a message 321 prompting the user to select a payment method, a selection button 322 for selecting payment by IC card, a selection button 323 for selecting payment by cash, a message 324 informing the user that the IC card will be used as the unlocking key if payment is made by IC card, a message 325 informing the user that a retrieval ticket will be issued for retrieving the luggage if payment is made by cash, and a cancel button 326.

[0097] When the user wishes to pay for the day's use of the locker device 10 with an IC card, the user touches the selection button 322. This causes the control unit 221 to display an IC card settlement screen on the interface 121. The user follows the settlement screen to have the card reader 123 read their own IC card and settle the fare. When the settlement is thus completed, the control unit 221 issues a usage certificate from the first ticket issuing port 128a via the ticket issuing unit 225.

[0098] At this time, the control unit 221 associates the identification information of the read IC card with the identification information (locker number) of the storage unit 11 for which the current settlement is to be made, the date and time of locking, and the key type indicating that the IC card is a key, and stores them in the storage unit 222. The control unit 221 also operates the corresponding locking unit 212 to lock the door 11a of the storage unit 11 for which the current settlement is to be made.

[0099] When the user wishes to pay for the day's use of the locker device 10 in cash, the user touches the selection button 323. This causes the control unit 221 to display a cash settlement screen on the interface 121. The user deposits bills or coins into the bill deposit / withdrawal slot 124 or the coin deposit slot 125 in accordance with the settlement screen. When this completes the settlement, the control unit 221 issues a withdrawal ticket from the second ticket issuing slot 128b via the ticket issuing unit 225. A two-dimensional barcode is printed on this withdrawal ticket, which serves as a key for unlocking the door 11a when the luggage is to be removed.

[0100] The control unit 221 associates the information of the issued two-dimensional barcode with the identification information (locker number) of the storage unit 11 for which the current settlement is to be made, the date and time of locking, and the key type indicating that the two-dimensional barcode is a key, and stores them in the memory unit 222. The control unit 221 also operates the corresponding locking unit 212 to lock the door 11a of the storage unit 11 for which the current settlement is to be made.

[0101] This completes the baggage deposit process. The process when the cancel button 326 on the payment screen 320 is touched is the same as the process described above when the cancel button 313 in FIG.

[0102] <Removing luggage> The process of removing luggage from the locker device 10 will now be described.

[0103] In this case, the user touches the select button 303 on the initial screen 300 in Fig. 6. This causes the control unit 221 to display the take-out screen 330 in Fig. 9 on the interface 121.

[0104] The removal screen 330 includes a message 331 prompting the user to select the type of key. As described above, if the user pays with an IC card on the payment screen 320 of Fig. 8 (if the user touches the selection button 322 to make the payment), the IC card becomes the key. Also, if the user pays with cash on the payment screen 320 (if the user touches the selection button 323 to make the payment), the two-dimensional barcode printed on the removal ticket becomes the key.

[0105] If the IC card is the key, the user touches the selection button 332 on the removal screen 330. This causes the control unit 221 to display on the interface 121 a screen including a message urging the user to have the IC card read by the card reader 123. In response to this, the user has the card reader 123 read their own IC card.

[0106] The control unit 221 compares the identification information of the read IC card with the linking information stored in the memory unit 222, in which the key type is IC card, and identifies the identification information (locker number) of the storage unit 11 linked to the identification information. Then, the control unit 221 causes the locking unit 212 of the identified storage unit 11 to unlock the door 11a, and further controls the lighting area 141 on the panel unit 14 of the storage unit 11 to flash. If the baggage deposit period has expired, the control unit 221 settles the excess fee from the IC card and displays information indicating this on the interface 121.

[0107] If the two-dimensional barcode is a key, the user touches the selection button 333 on the removal screen 330. This causes the control unit 221 to display on the interface 121 a screen including a message prompting the user to have the barcode reader 122 read the two-dimensional barcode on the removal ticket. In response to this, the user causes the barcode reader 122 to read the two-dimensional barcode on their own removal ticket.

[0108] The control unit 221 compares the information in the read two-dimensional barcode with the linking information stored in the memory unit 222, where the key type is a two-dimensional barcode, and identifies the identification information (locker number) of the storage unit 11 linked to the information in the two-dimensional barcode. The control unit 221 then causes the locking unit 212 of the identified storage unit 11 to unlock the door 11a and further controls the lighting area 141 on the panel unit 14 of the storage unit 11 to flash. If the luggage deposit period has expired, the control unit 221 causes the interface 121 to display a screen for settling the excess fee before unlocking, prompting the user to pay the excess fee. In response, the user pays the fee in cash. In response, the control unit 221 controls the unlocking and the flashing of the lighting area 141 described above.

[0109] The user opens the door 11a of the storage unit 11 that is unlocked and whose lighting area 141 is flashing, and removes his / her luggage from the storage unit 11. After removing the luggage, the user closes the door 11a. As a result, the corresponding open / close sensor 213 transmits a detection result of whether the door 11a is open or closed to the control unit 221. In response to this, the control unit 221 performs control to set the lighting area 141 of the storage unit 11 to a lit state. In this way, the process of removing luggage is completed.

[0110] 9 further includes a message 334 attached to the selection button 333 and a cancel button 335. From the message 334, the user understands that if the selection button 333 is selected, the amount of the excess period will need to be paid in cash. When the user touches the cancel button 335, the control unit 221 causes the interface 121 to display the initial screen 300 of FIG. 6.

[0111] <Image display processing> Next, a process for displaying an advertising image on the display 13 installed on the surface of the door 11a will be described.

[0112] In this embodiment, the control unit 201 can execute two image display modes: a first mode and a second mode.

[0113] The first mode is executed when the user has not performed any operation related to opening the door 11a, and is a mode for providing advertising images to passersby walking along the passage in front of the locker device 10. The second mode is executed when the user has performed an operation related to opening the door 11a, and is a mode for providing advertising images to users who use the locker device 10.

[0114] Here, the "operation related to opening door 11a" refers to the user performing an operation to unlock door 11a of his / her storage unit 11 via interface 121 when retrieving luggage, that is, the user performing an input to unlock the door on the screens of Figures 6 and 9.

[0115] When the control unit 221 of the settlement unit 12 receives an output corresponding to the unlocking operation from the interface 121 and unlocks the corresponding door 11a, the control unit 221 transmits a notification of this (unlocking completion notification) together with the identification information of the door 11a (locker number of the storage unit 11) to the control unit 201 of the control unit 20. As a result, the control unit 201 executes the second mode described above.

[0116] Furthermore, when the control unit 221 of the settlement unit 12 receives a detection signal from the opening / closing sensor 213 corresponding to the unlocked door 11a indicating that the door 11a has been opened and then closed, the control unit 221 transmits a notification indicating this (removal completion notification) together with the identification information of the door 11a (locker number of the storage unit 11) to the control unit 201 of the control unit 20. This causes the control unit 201 to end the second mode and execute the above-mentioned first mode.

[0117] FIG. 10(a) is a flowchart showing the display process of the advertisement image.

[0118] The control unit 201 executes the display process in the first mode (S101) until it receives the unlocking completion notification from the control unit 221 of the settlement unit 12 (S102: NO). When it receives the unlocking completion notification, the control unit 201 determines YES in step S102 and executes the display process in the second mode (S103). Thereafter, when it receives the removal completion notification (S104: YES), the control unit 201 ends the process and starts the process again from step S101. This executes the display process in the first mode.

[0119] The removal completion notification may be sent from the control unit 221 of the settlement unit 12 to the control unit 201 in response to the door 11a to be unlocked being opened. Alternatively, the removal completion notification may be sent from the control unit 221 of the settlement unit 12 to the control unit 201 in response to the passage of a predetermined time after the door 11a to be unlocked is opened and then closed.

[0120] FIG. 10(b) is a flowchart showing the second mode process in step S103 of FIG. 10(a).

[0121] The control unit 201 sets the door 11a to be used for displaying the advertisement image according to the position (locker number) of the storage unit 11 that is the target of the unlocking operation (S201), and displays the advertisement image on the set door 11a (S202).

[0122] Fig. 11(a) is a diagram showing an example of a method for setting the door 11a used to display the advertising image in the second mode, and Fig. 11(b) is a diagram showing an example of setting the locker numbers for each storage section 11.

[0123] 11(a), in principle, a range of door 11a, 3 vertical x 3 horizontal, including door 11a to be unlocked at the center, is set as door 11a to be used for displaying the advertisement image. If this rule cannot be applied to door 11a to be unlocked, a range of door 11a, 3 vertical x 3 horizontal, is set (display range of advertisement image) so as to include door 11a to be unlocked as close to the center as possible.

[0124] For example, in Figure 11(b), door 11a with locker number "1" is located in the upper left corner, so if this door 11a is set to the center of the display range, the advertising image displayed in the range of door 11a that is 3 vertical x 3 horizontal can only be displayed in the range of doors 11a with locker numbers "1, 2, 5, 6." Therefore, in the setting example of Figure 11(a), if door 11a with locker number "1" is to be unlocked, the range of doors 11a that is 3 vertical x 3 horizontal and includes door 11a in the upper left corner (the range of locker numbers "1 to 3, 5 to 7, 9 to 11") is set as the range of doors 11a used to display the advertising image.

[0125] Similarly, if door 11a with locker number "2" is to be unlocked, the range of doors 11a that is 3 vertically and 3 horizontally and includes this door 11a in the center on the left side (the range of locker numbers "1 to 3, 5 to 7, 9 to 11") is set as the range of doors 11a to be used for displaying the advertising image.

[0126] Here, since the display range of the advertisement image in the second mode is set to a range of doors 11a that is 3 vertically and 3 horizontally, if the door 11a with locker numbers "21 to 26" is to be unlocked, the range of doors 11a that is 3 vertically and 3 horizontally cannot be set to include that door 11a. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 11(a), if any of doors 11a with locker numbers "21, 23, 24" is to be unlocked, the range of doors 11a with locker numbers "9 to 11, 13 to 15, 17 to 19" near these doors 11a is set as the range of doors 11a used to display the advertisement image. Also, if any of doors 11a with locker numbers "22, 25, 26" is to be unlocked, the range of doors 11a with locker numbers "10 to 12, 14 to 16, 18 to 20" near these doors 11a is set as the range of doors 11a used to display the advertisement image.

[0127] With this setting method, the displays 13 of the doors 11a with locker numbers "21-26" will not be used to display advertising images. However, the range of the doors 11a used to display advertising images is not limited to a range of 3 doors 11a vertically and 3 doors 11a horizontally. For example, if the advertising image is displayed using only the range of one door 11a, the advertising image may be displayed using only the door 11a to be unlocked. In this case, the displays 13 of the doors 11a with locker numbers "21-26" may also be used to display advertising images.

[0128] 12(a) to 12(c) are diagrams that schematically show the display methods of advertising images in the first mode and the second mode.

[0129] In Figures 12(a) to (c), the upper part shows a method for displaying an advertisement image in the first mode, and the lower part shows a method for displaying an advertisement image in the second mode. Here, a range of 16 doors 11a, 4 vertical x 4 horizontal, is set as the display range A1 of the advertisement image in the first mode, and a range of 9 doors 11a, 3 vertical x 3 horizontal, is set as the display range A2 of the advertisement image in the second mode. For convenience, each advertisement image is shown as an image of letters P to S. In the following description, each advertisement image will be referred to as advertisement images P, Q, R, and S. In the example of Figure 12(a), one advertising image P is displayed in each mode. Because the display range A2 in the second mode is smaller than the display range A1 in the first mode, the advertising image P in the second mode is reduced in size compared to the first mode.

[0130] In the example of Figure 12(b), four advertising images P, Q, R, and S are displayed in each mode. Again, due to the size relationship between the display ranges A1 and A2, the advertising image P in the second mode is reduced compared to the first mode.

[0131] In the example of Fig. 12(c), four advertising images P, Q, R, and S are displayed in the first mode, and only advertising image P is displayed in the second mode. Here, since the number of advertising images displayed in the second mode is smaller than that in the first mode, advertising image P in the second mode is enlarged compared to that in the first mode. In this case, the advertising images displayed in the second mode may cyclically transition in the order of P, Q, R, and S at predetermined time intervals.

[0132] The display method of the advertising image in the first mode and the second mode is not limited to the examples shown in FIGS. 12(a) to 12(c). For example, in the examples of FIGS. 12(a) to 12(c), at least a portion of the advertising image displayed in the first mode and the second mode overlaps, but completely different advertising images may be displayed in the first mode and the second mode. Furthermore, the range (number) of the doors 11a used for display in the first mode and the second mode is not limited to the examples shown in FIGS. 12(a) to 12(c). The compression or enlargement of the advertising image may be adjusted according to a change in the range (number) of the doors 11a used for display. In either mode, the advertising image may be displayed at a size that is easy for passersby or users to view while efficiently using the display ranges A1 and A2.

[0133] 12(a) to 12(c) to be used to display the advertisement images may be set by an administrator via the interface 121. Alternatively, the administrator of the locker device 10 may be able to arbitrarily set, via the interface 121, the method of displaying the advertisement images in the first mode and the second mode (the method of setting the display ranges A1 and A2, the method of allocating the advertisement images to each display range, etc.).

[0134] As described above, the advertisement image is displayed using the display 13 of the door 11a included in the display ranges A1, A2. Therefore, the control unit 201 controls each display 13 included in the display ranges A1, A2 so that the advertisement image is displayed in the form shown in Figs. 12(a) to (c) over the entire display ranges A1, A2. At this time, the control unit 201 allocates image information of the advertisement image excluding the portion of the advertisement image corresponding to the gap between adjacent displays 13 to each display 13, and drives each display 13. Therefore, the displayed advertisement image is an image with the portion corresponding to the gap missing, but since the proportion of the area of ​​this portion to the total area is small, passersby or users can smoothly view the advertisement image.

[0135] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of setting the display range A1 in the first mode.

[0136] In the example of Fig. 13, the range of doors 11a in the first to fourth columns from the left is set as the display range A1 of the advertisement image in the first mode. The range of doors 11a in the second to fifth columns from the left may also be set as the display range A1 of the advertisement image in the first mode. Alternatively, if the display range A1 in the first mode is a range of doors 11a that is 4 vertically and 5 horizontally, the range of doors 11a in the first to fifth columns from the left may be set as the display range A1 of the advertisement image in the first mode.

[0137] 14 to 17 are diagrams showing examples of setting the display range A2 in the second mode.

[0138] The setting examples in Figures 14 to 17 are based on the setting method in Figure 11(a). In Figures 14 to 17, the hatched doors 11a are the doors 11a that have been unlocked. For convenience, the hatched doors 11a are assigned locker numbers.

[0139] As shown in FIG. 14, if it is possible to set a range of the door 11a that is 3 vertically and 3 horizontally centered on the door 11a to be unlocked, this range is set as the display range A2 of the advertisement image in the second mode. As shown in FIGS. 15 to 17, if it is not possible to set a range of the door 11a that is 3 vertically and 3 horizontally centered on the door 11a to be unlocked, a range of the door 11a that is 3 vertically and 3 horizontally and includes the door 11a to be unlocked is set as the display range A2 of the advertisement image in the second mode. In this case, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, the display range A2 of the advertisement image is set so that the door 11a to be unlocked is as close to the center of the display range A2 as possible. If it is not possible to bring the door 11a to be unlocked close to the center of the display range A2, the display range A2 of the advertisement image is set so that the door 11a to be unlocked is included in a corner of the display range A2, as shown in FIG.

[0140] Such setting of the display range A2 can be realized by storing an algorithm according to the setting method (setting rule) of Fig. 11(a) in the storage unit 202. In this case, the control unit 201 identifies the position of the storage unit 11 (door 11a) to be unlocked on the layout of the storage units 11 based on the layout information, and applies the identified position and layout to the algorithm to set the display range A2 of the advertising image.

[0141] Alternatively, the setting of the display range A2 can be realized by storing a table similar to that shown in FIG. 11(a) in the storage unit 202. In this case, the control unit 201 sets the range of the door 11a of the locker number linked to the locker number of the door 11a to be unlocked in the table as the display range A2 of the advertising image. The table may be set in advance by the manager or installer of the locker device 10 according to the layout of the storage unit 11. This setting may be made via the interface 121, or may be made by connecting a dedicated terminal to the control unit 20.

[0142] <Effects of the First Embodiment> As shown in Figures 1, 2 and 5, the storage system 1 comprises a plurality of storage units 11 arranged side by side in a plane, each having a door 11a, a display 13 (display unit) that displays an image on each door 11a, an interface 121 (output unit) that outputs information about the storage unit 11 for which an operation to open the door 11a (unlocking operation) has been performed (locker number "7" in the example of Figure 7), and a control unit 201 that sets the door 11a (display range A2) for displaying an advertising image according to the position of the storage unit 11 identified by the output information, and causes the display 13 (display unit) to display the advertising image for the set door 11a.

[0143] According to this configuration, the door 11a for displaying the advertisement image is set according to the position of the storage unit 11 where the user has performed an operation (unlocking operation) to open the door 11a. Therefore, the user can naturally refer to the advertisement image when using his / her own storage unit 11.

[0144] As shown in Figures 1, 2 and 5, door 11a is configured to be lockable by locking unit 212, and locker device 10 is provided with interface 121 (output unit) that receives an operation to unlock door 11a for each storage unit 11, and interface 121 outputs information identifying the storage unit 11 for which the unlocking operation was performed to interface 121 (locker number "7" in the example of Figure 7) as information about the storage unit 11 for which the operation to open door 11a was performed.

[0145] According to this configuration, the door 11a for displaying the advertising image is set according to the position of the storage unit 11 that has been unlocked by the user via the interface 121. Therefore, after performing the unlocking operation on the interface 121, the user can naturally refer to the advertising image when heading to the storage unit 11 where his / her luggage will be stored.

[0146] As shown in FIGS. 14 to 17, in the second mode, the control unit 201 includes the door 11a of the storage unit 11 for which an operation for opening the door 11a (unlocking operation) has been performed as the door 11a for displaying the advertising image.

[0147] According to this configuration, the advertising image is displayed on the door 11a of the storage unit 11 that the user actually uses, so the user can smoothly refer to the advertising image in the second mode.

[0148] As shown in FIGS. 14 to 17, in the second mode, the control unit 201 includes a predetermined door 11a near the storage unit 11 for which an operation (unlocking operation) for opening the door 11a has been performed as the door 11a for displaying an advertising image.

[0149] According to this configuration, the image is displayed on the door 11a near the storage unit 11 used by the user, so that the user can smoothly refer to the advertising image in the second mode.

[0150] As shown in Figures 14 to 17, in the second mode, the control unit 201 includes the door 11a of a specified storage unit 11 adjacent to the storage unit 11 on which an operation (unlocking operation) to open the door 11a has been performed as the door 11a on which an advertising image is displayed.

[0151] According to this configuration, the image is displayed on the door next to the storage unit used by the user, so that the user can smoothly refer to the advertising image in the second mode.

[0152] As shown in Fig. 10(a), when an operation for opening the door 11a (unlocking operation) has not been performed (S102: NO), the control unit 201 executes the first mode (S101) and displays an advertising image on a predetermined door 11a. At this time, as shown in Figs. 12(a) to 12(c), the control unit 201 differentiates the advertising image when the operation has not been performed (first mode) from the advertising image when the operation has been performed (second mode).

[0153] According to this configuration, when there is no user using the storage unit 11, an advertising image for passersby is displayed in the first mode, and when there is a user using the storage unit 11, an advertising image for the user is displayed in the second mode. Therefore, not only the user but also passersby can smoothly refer to the advertising image.

[0154] As shown in Figures 12(a) to (c), the control unit 201 reduces the number of doors 11a on which advertising images are displayed when an operation (unlocking operation) to open the doors 11a is performed (second mode) from the number of doors 11a on which advertising images are displayed when such an operation is performed (first mode).

[0155] According to this configuration, when there is no user using storage unit 11, a large advertising image can be displayed that is easy to see for passersby who are located far from door 11a, and when there is a user using storage unit 11, a small advertising image can be displayed that is easy to see for users who are located closer to door 11a. This allows users and passersby to smoothly refer to the advertising image according to each situation.

[0156] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 5, an advertising image is displayed on a display 13 arranged on the surface of the door 11a.

[0157] According to this configuration, by adjusting the display 13 that displays the advertising image in accordance with the position of the storage unit 11 that the user uses, the advertising image can be displayed on the door 11a that is the display target.

[0158] As described above, the image displayed on the door 11a is an advertising image containing advertising information.

[0159] According to this configuration, the advertising image can be smoothly displayed to the user who uses the storage unit 11, and the advertising effect on the user can be improved.

[0160] <Change example 1> In the first embodiment, the display range A2 of the advertising image in the second mode is set in principle to be centered on the door 11a to be unlocked, but the method for setting the display range A2 is not limited to this.

[0161] For example, as shown in Figure 18, the display range A2 may be set near the door 11a to be unlocked so that the door 11a adjacent to the door 11a to be unlocked in the opening direction (to the left in this case, since it opens to the left) is not included in the display targets.

[0162] By setting the display range A2 in this way, the door 11a on the left side that is hidden by the open door 11a is excluded from the display of the advertisement image, thereby allowing the user to smoothly view the advertisement image.

[0163] 19, the display range A2 may be set near the door 11a to be unlocked so that the door 11a to be unlocked is not included in the display targets. Here, the display range A2 is set so that the door 11a adjacent to the door 11a to be unlocked in the opposite direction to the opening direction is included in the display targets.

[0164] When the door 11a to be unlocked is opened, the area of ​​the advertising image corresponding to this door 11a becomes difficult to see. In contrast, when the display range A2 is set as shown in Figure 19, even if the door 11a to be unlocked is opened, the advertising image displayed in the display range A2 is not affected. Therefore, the user can smoothly view the advertising image.

[0165] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 20, the display range A2 in the second mode does not have to include doors 11a adjacent to the door 11a to be unlocked, as long as it is in the vicinity of this door 11a.

[0166] As shown in FIG. 20, if the door 11a to be unlocked is located at the bottom of the locker device 10, the user performs an unlocking operation on the payment unit 12, then moves to the row of the door 11a to be unlocked, and then crouches down to open the door 11a to be unlocked. In this case, while moving from the payment unit 12 to the row of the door 11a to be unlocked, it is assumed that the user will find it easier to view the advertisement image if the display range A2 (here, the display range A2 is set to a range of 2 doors 11a vertically and 2 doors horizontally) is set higher as shown in FIG. 20, in relation to the user's general height. Therefore, by setting the display range A2 in this way, the user can smoothly view the advertisement image.

[0167] <Change example 2> In the above embodiment 1, the display range A2 in the second mode was fixed, but in modified example 2, the display range A2 is reset depending on the opening of the door 11a to be unlocked, and an advertising image is displayed in the reset display range A2.

[0168] FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the process of the second mode according to the second modification.

[0169] 10(b), steps S211 to S213 have been added to the flowchart in Fig. 21. Until the door 11a to be unlocked is opened (S211: NO), the control unit 201, as in the first embodiment, displays an advertising image in a display range A2 that is essentially 3 vertical x 3 horizontal doors centered on the door 11a to be unlocked (S202).

[0170] Thereafter, when the user moves to the position of the door 11a to be unlocked and opens the door 11a, an output from the open / close sensor 213 indicating this is transmitted to the control unit 221 of the settlement unit 12. The control unit 221 transmits a notification according to this output together with the identification information (locker number) of the opened door 11a to the control unit 201 of the control unit 20. The control unit 201 determines from this notification that the door 11a to be unlocked has been opened (S211: YES).

[0171] As a result, the control unit 201 resets the range of the door 11a to be displayed (display range A2) (S212), and displays the advertising image in the reset range of the door 11a (S213). In step S212, the control unit 201 resets the new display range A2 near the opened door 11a so as to exclude the opened door 11a from the display targets.

[0172] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing the reset range (display range A2) of the door 11a.

[0173] Here, a 2×2 range of doors 11a in height and width, including the door 11a adjacent to the opened door 11a (here, the door 11a with locker number "7") in the opposite direction (to the right) to the opening direction (to the left), is reset as the display range A2. In this case, the control unit 201 displays an advertising image reduced in size according to the size of the reset display range A2 on the four displays 13 included in the display range A2. The reset display range A2 may be 3×3 in size, the same as before the reset.

[0174] As described above, in modified example 2, the control unit 201 is configured to include the door 11a to be unlocked as a display target for the advertising image from the time the unlocking operation is performed on the interface 121 until the door 11a is opened, and to remove the door 11a to be unlocked from the display target for the advertising image after the door 11a is opened.

[0175] According to this configuration, after the user performs an unlocking operation on the interface 121, when the user heads to the storage unit 11 where his / her luggage is to be stored, the advertising image is displayed on the door 11a including the storage unit 11 that the user is using, so the user can smoothly view the advertising image. Furthermore, when the user subsequently opens the door 11a of the storage unit 11, this door 11a is removed from the display targets for advertising images, so it is possible to avoid advertising images continuing to be displayed on the door 11a that has been opened and is now difficult to provide advertising images properly. Furthermore, in this case too, the door 11a for displaying advertising images is reset near the position of the storage unit 11 that the user is using, so the user can smoothly view advertising images even after the door 11a is opened.

[0176] <Change example 3> In the first embodiment, the "operation related to opening the door" that is the execution condition for the second mode is "an operation to unlock the door 11a has been performed on the interface 121." However, the "operation related to opening the door" that is the execution condition for the second mode is not limited to this, and may be another operation that accompanies the opening of the door 11a.

[0177] For example, the "door-opening operation" may be an operation in which the user grasps handle 11b to open door 11a when retrieving or depositing luggage. Alternatively, the "door-opening operation" may be an operation in which the user opens door 11a and then closes door 11a when depositing luggage. Furthermore, the "door-opening operation" may be an operation in which the user presses down lever 143a of temporary lock operation unit 143 to temporarily lock door 11a after this operation. In this case, a notification of the temporary locking (temporary lock notification) is sent from control unit 221 to control unit 201 together with the locker number of temporarily locked door 11a. In this way, the "door-opening operation" that is a condition for executing the second mode may be any operation that can reflect the user moving to the position of door 11a to be opened or being at this position.

[0178] Fig. 23(a) is a flowchart showing the display processing of an advertisement image according to Modification Example 3. Fig. 23(b) is a flowchart showing the processing of the second mode in step S103 of Fig. 23(a).

[0179] In the flowchart of Fig. 23(a), steps S102 and S104 in the flowchart of Fig. 10(a) are replaced with steps S111 and S112. In addition, in the flowchart of Fig. 23(b), step S201 in the flowchart of Fig. 10(b) is replaced with step S221.

[0180] Here, the condition for executing the second mode is that a predetermined door 11a has been opened by the opening / closing sensor 213. In this case, in response to receiving a detection signal indicating that door 11a has been opened from the opening / closing sensor 213, the control unit 221 of the settlement unit 12 transmits a notification indicating this (opening notification) to the control unit 201 of the control unit 20, together with identification information of the opened door 11a. In response to this, the control unit 201 executes the second mode. Further, in response to receiving a detection signal indicating that door 11a has been closed from the opening / closing sensor 213, the control unit 221 of the settlement unit 12 transmits a notification indicating this (closing notification) to the control unit 201 of the control unit 20, together with identification information of the closed door 11a. In response to this, the control unit 201 ends the second mode and executes the first mode.

[0181] 23(a), when the control unit 201 receives the above-mentioned open notification (S111: YES), it executes the second mode (S103). Thereafter, when the control unit 201 receives a blockage notification (S112: YES), it ends the processing of the flowchart and starts the processing again from step S101. As a result, the display processing of the first mode is executed.

[0182] Referring to FIG. 23(b), the control unit 201 sets the door 11a (display range A2) to be displayed according to the position of the opened storage unit 11 (S221). This setting is performed in the same manner as in the first embodiment. That is, here, the reference door 11a is simply changed from the door 11a to be unlocked to the door 11a to be opened. The setting method in the first modification may be used as a method for setting the door 11a to be displayed. The control unit 201 displays an advertising image on the display 13 of the set door 11a (display range A2) (S202).

[0183] As described above, the storage system 1 according to the third modified example is equipped with an opening / closing sensor 213 that detects the opening of the door 11a, and the opening / closing sensor 213 outputs the detection result in response to the opening of the door 11a as information about the storage section 11 in which the operation related to opening the door 11a was performed.

[0184] According to this configuration, the door 11a for displaying the advertisement image is set according to the position of the storage section 11 opened by the user. Therefore, the user can naturally refer to the advertisement image after opening the door 11a.

[0185] In addition, Figure 23(a) illustrates the opening of door 11a (S111) as another example of an ``operation related to opening the door,'' but in the case of the other ``operations related to opening the door'' mentioned above, steps S111 and S112 can be modified appropriately.

[0186] For example, if the "operation related to opening the door" is that the door 11a is opened and then closed, step S111 may be changed to a judgment condition corresponding to this (whether or not a blockage notification has been received), and step S112 may be changed to a judgment condition that a predetermined time (the time required for the user to refer to the advertising image: for example, several seconds to about 10 seconds) has passed after this judgment condition has been satisfied.

[0187] Furthermore, if the "operation related to opening the door" is the temporary locking of the door 11a, step S111 is changed to a corresponding judgment condition (whether or not a temporary lock notification has been received), and step S112 may be changed to a judgment condition that a predetermined time (the time required for the user to view the advertising image: for example, several seconds to about 10 seconds) has elapsed after this condition is satisfied.

[0188] <Change Example 4> In the above-described first embodiment, when an "operation related to opening the door" (in the first embodiment, an unlocking operation on the interface 121), which is a condition for executing the second mode, is performed, the second mode is always executed. In contrast, in the fourth modification, the administrator can set whether or not to execute the second mode. That is, the control unit 201 receives a request for whether or not to execute the second mode from the administrator of the storage system 1 via the interface 121. Then, the control unit 201 stores the necessity information, which indicates whether or not to execute the second mode and which is received from the administrator, in the memory unit 202.

[0189] The necessity information may be initially set to a state in which the second mode is executed. In this case, when execution of the second mode is not required, the administrator can display a setting screen on the interface 121 and change the necessity information to a state in which the second mode is not executed.

[0190] FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the display processing of the advertisement image according to the fourth modification.

[0191] The flowchart in Fig. 24 includes step S121 added compared to the flowchart in Fig. 10(a). When the control unit 201 receives an unlocking operation via the interface 121 (S102: YES), it refers to the necessity information and determines whether or not the setting to execute the second mode has been made (S121). If the setting to execute the second mode has been made (S121: YES), the control unit 201 proceeds to step S103 and executes the same processing as in Fig. 10(a). If the setting to execute the second mode has not been made (S121: NO), the control unit 201 ends the current processing and starts the processing again from step S101.

[0192] With this configuration, the manager of the storage system 1 can freely set whether or not to execute the second mode in which an advertising image for users is displayed, thereby improving convenience for the manager.

[0193] Note that the second modification may be applied to the fourth modification, and the determination conditions in steps S102 and S104 may be changed in the same way as the third modification.

[0194] <Embodiment 2> In the first embodiment, the advertisement image is displayed on the display 13 installed on the surface of the door 11a, but the configuration for displaying the advertisement image on the door 11a is not limited to this. For example, the advertisement image may be displayed on the door 11a by projecting the advertisement image onto the door 11a.

[0195] FIG. 25 is a diagram showing the configuration of the storage system 1 according to the second embodiment.

[0196] In the second embodiment, the display 13 is omitted from each door 11a, and a projector 50 is added. The projector 50 is arranged so as to be able to project an image onto the surface of the door 11a. The projection range of the projector 50 roughly coincides with the entire surface of the locker device 10. Therefore, the projector 50 can project an image onto the surface of all the doors 11a arranged in the locker device 10. The projector 50 is connected to the control unit 20 so as to be able to communicate with it.

[0197] The projector 50 projects an advertising image under the control of the control unit 20 (control unit 201). The control unit 201 controls the projector 50 so that the advertising image is displayed on a predetermined door 11a in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0198] That is, in the first mode, the control unit 201 controls the projector 50 so that the advertising image is projected and displayed in a display range A1 that includes 4 doors 11a in height and 4 doors in width within the projection range. In the second mode, the control unit 201 controls the projector 50 so that the advertising image is projected and displayed in a display range A2 that includes 3 doors 11a in height and 3 doors in width near the door 11a to be unlocked within the projection range. Switching between the first mode and the second mode is performed according to the process of FIG. 10(a), as in the first embodiment. The above modifications 1 to 4 may also be applied to the second embodiment.

[0199] <Effects of the Second Embodiment> The second embodiment also provides the same effects as the first embodiment and its modifications.

[0200] Furthermore, according to the configuration of the second embodiment, the projection range of the advertising image by the projector 50 is adjusted depending on the position of the storage unit 11 used by the user, so that the advertising image can be displayed on the door 11a that is the display target.

[0201] <Other configuration examples> In the above-described first and second embodiments, the second mode control is performed so that an advertising image is displayed on the door 11a near the storage unit 11 where the user has performed an operation to open the door 11a. In contrast, in another configuration example, the position of the user who is about to use the locker device 10 is detected, and the second mode control is performed so that an advertising image is displayed on the door 11a near this position.

[0202] FIG. 26 is a diagram showing the configuration of a storage system 1 according to another configuration example.

[0203] Here, a camera 60 is added to the configuration of FIG. 1. The camera 60 is communicably connected to the control unit 20. The camera 60 captures an image in front of the locker device 10. Here, the camera 60 is installed on the top surface of the locker device 10. The camera 60 may also be installed on the ceiling above the locker device 10.

[0204] The field of view of the camera 60 is set so that it can capture images of users who are located a predetermined distance (for example, about 0.5 to 1 m) away from each door 11a of the locker device 10. If this setting is difficult with one camera 60, multiple cameras 60 may be installed. For example, one camera 60 may be installed for the n columns of doors 11a from the left, and other cameras 60 may be installed for the doors 11a from the n+1 column to the rightmost column.

[0205] The storage section 202 of the control unit 20 stores an analysis engine for analyzing the image captured by the camera 60. The control section 201 of the control unit 20 uses this analysis engine to analyze the image captured by the camera 60 and determine whether or not the user has faced any of the doors 11a. More specifically, the control section 201 extracts the user's face from the captured image and determines whether or not the extracted face has stopped in a state facing the locker device 10. When the face has stopped in a state facing the locker device 10, the control section 201 identifies the storage section 11 that the user faces from the position of the face in the captured image.

[0206] The control unit 201 executes the second mode described above when the user's face faces the locker device 10 and stops. That is, in this configuration example, the determination condition in step S102 of FIG. 10(a) is changed to whether the user's face faces the locker device 10 and stops. In the second mode, the control unit 201 sets the range of the door 11a near the storage unit 11 identified from the position of the face as the display range A2. That is, in this configuration example, the "storage unit 11 targeted for the unlocking operation" in step S201 of FIG. 10(b) is changed to the above-mentioned "storage unit identified from the position of the face." The control unit 201 displays an advertising image on the display 13 of the door 11a within the set display range A2. This display is performed by the same processing as in the first embodiment.

[0207] Thereafter, the control unit 201 continues to analyze the captured image and determines whether or not the user has moved from the above-mentioned "specified storage unit 11." When the control unit 201 determines that this movement has occurred, it ends the second mode and executes the first mode. That is, the determination condition in step S104 in FIG. 10(a) is changed to whether or not the user has moved from the above-mentioned "specified storage unit 11."

[0208] This configuration example also achieves the same effects as in the above-described embodiment 1. This configuration example may also be modified in the same manner as in the above-described modified examples 1, 2, and 4. Also, this configuration example may also display an advertising image by the projector 50, as in the above-described embodiment 2.

[0209] The method of determining whether or not a user is near the front of the locker device 10 is not limited to the above method. For example, the second mode may be executed simply when the face or head is substantially stationary in the captured image, without the user facing the locker device 10. In this case, too, it is sufficient to identify the storage section 11 corresponding to the position of the face or head in the captured image.

[0210] Furthermore, the detection of the user's position may be performed using a device other than the camera 60. For example, a narrow-directional motion sensor corresponding to the width of each row of doors 11a in the locker device 10 may be disposed for each row of doors 11a, and when the motion sensor continuously detects a person for a certain period of time, it may be determined that a user is present in the corresponding row. In this case, the display range A2 in the second mode may be set based on, for example, the second storage compartment 11 from the top of the row (the position of the user's face when standing). Furthermore, when the motion sensor no longer detects a person, the second mode may be terminated and the device may transition to the first mode.

[0211] <Other change examples> In the first embodiment described above, the second mode is ended when an action of removing a package from the corresponding storage section 11 is performed in step S104 of FIG. 10(a), but the condition for ending the second mode is not limited to this. For example, the second mode may be ended when a predetermined time (e.g., several tens of seconds to one minute) has elapsed since the door 11a was unlocked. Alternatively, in the case where a camera 60 is separately installed as shown in FIG. 26, the second mode may be ended when it is determined from an image captured by the camera 60 that the user has moved away from the door 11a to be unlocked. This point is also true in the second embodiment described above.

[0212] In the above embodiments 1 and 2, advertising images were displayed only in the display range A2 in the second mode, but when the second mode is executed, other advertising images may also be displayed in ranges other than the display range A2 of the second mode, for example, for the purpose of providing them to passersby.

[0213] The size of the display range A2 in the second mode is not limited to the size shown in the above-described first and second embodiments and modified examples. For example, in the second mode, the advertising image may be displayed only on the door 11a to be unlocked, or on only one door 11a near the door 11a to be unlocked. The size of the display range A2 in the second mode is preferably set to a size that is easy for a user using the storage unit 11 to see.

[0214] If the IC card contains user attribute information (such as age and gender), the advertising image displayed in the second mode may be changed according to the attribute information read from the IC card. This attribute information may be obtained by analyzing an image captured by a camera. For example, if the checkout unit 12 has a camera, the user's attribute information may be obtained from an image captured of the user facing the checkout unit 12 when depositing or retrieving luggage.

[0215] In the above first and second embodiments, the control unit 20 is a personal computer built into the locker device 10, but the control unit 20 may be a personal computer installed separately from the locker device 10, and may perform the above-mentioned control via an external communication network 40. Also, a common control unit 20 may perform the above-mentioned control for a plurality of locker devices 10.

[0216] Alternatively, in the configuration of the above-described first embodiment, the functions of the control unit 201 of the control unit 20 may be implemented in the control unit 221 of the checkout unit 12, and the control unit 20 may be omitted. In this case, the storage system 1 is constituted by the locker device 10 alone. In the configuration of the above-described second embodiment, the functions of the control unit 201 of the control unit 20 may also be implemented in the control unit 221 of the checkout unit 12, and the control unit 20 may be omitted. In this case, the projector 50 is connected to the checkout unit 12 so as to be able to communicate with it.

[0217] The configuration of the locker device 10 and the layout of the storage section 11 and door 11a shown in the first and second embodiments are merely examples, and other configurations and layouts are also possible. The size of the storage section 11 (door 11a) is also merely an example, and the storage section 11 (door 11a) may have a size different from that of the first and second embodiments. The size of the storage section 11 (door 11a) does not have to be uniform, and several types of storage sections 11 (doors 11a) of different sizes may be arranged in the locker device 10. The display range A1 of the first mode and the display range A2 of the second mode may be changed as appropriate depending on the layout and size of the door 11a. The door 11a may open to the right.

[0218] In the first and second embodiments, the first and second modes are executable, but the first mode may be omitted and only the second mode may be executable.

[0219] In the above-described first and second embodiments, the images displayed in the second mode are advertising images, but the images displayed in the second mode may be images other than advertising images. For example, if the locker device 10 is installed in a station, notification images related to trains or stations, such as train operation status, may be displayed in the second mode. Alternatively, entertainment images for entertaining users of the locker device 10, such as images of dogs or cats, may be displayed in the second mode. This allows notification images and entertainment images to be displayed smoothly to the user, and makes it possible to provide the user with useful information and entertaining images.

[0220] In addition, the embodiments of the present invention can be modified as appropriate within the scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0221] 1. Storage System 10. Locker device 11 Storage area 11a Door 13 Display (display unit) 50 Projector (display unit) 201 Control Unit 202 Storage section 212 Locking section 213 Open / close sensor

Claims

1. a plurality of storage units arranged side by side in an in-plane direction, each having a door; a display unit that displays an image on each of the doors; an output unit that outputs information about the storage unit on which the operation related to opening the door has been performed; a control unit that sets the door on which the image is to be displayed according to the position of the storage unit specified by the information, and causes the display unit to display the image for the set door, A storage system characterized by:

2. 2. The storage system of claim 1, The door is configured to be lockable, an interface that receives an operation to unlock the door for each of the storage units; the interface outputs information identifying the storage unit for which an unlocking operation has been performed to the interface as the information on the storage unit for which an operation related to opening the door has been performed. A storage system characterized by:

3. 3. The storage system according to claim 2, the control unit includes the door of the storage unit identified by the information in the display targets of the image from when an unlocking operation is performed on the interface until the door is opened, and after the door is opened, removes the door of the storage unit identified by the information from the display targets of the image. A storage system characterized by:

4. 2. The storage system of claim 1, a sensor for detecting the opening of the door; The sensor outputs a detection result in response to the opening of the door as information about the storage unit in which the operation related to opening the door has been performed. A storage system characterized by:

5. 2. The storage system of claim 1, the control unit includes the door of the storage unit on which an operation related to opening the door has been performed as the door for which the image is displayed. A storage system characterized by:

6. 2. The storage system of claim 1, the control unit includes a predetermined door in the vicinity of the storage unit where an operation related to opening the door has been performed, in the doors for which the image is displayed. A storage system characterized by:

7. 7. The storage system of claim 6, the control unit includes the door of a predetermined storage unit adjacent to the storage unit on which the operation related to opening the door has been performed in the doors for which the image is displayed. A storage system characterized by:

8. 8. The storage system of claim 7, the control unit removes the door of the storage unit adjacent to the storage unit in the door opening direction from the door for which the image is displayed, for the storage unit for which the operation related to opening the door has been performed; A storage system characterized by:

9. 2. The storage system of claim 1, The control unit displays an image on a predetermined door when no operation related to opening the door is performed, and differentiates the image when no operation is performed from the image when the operation is performed. A storage system characterized by:

10. 10. The storage system of claim 9, the control unit reduces the number of the doors for which the images are to be displayed when the operation is performed compared to the number of the doors for which the images are to be displayed when the operation is not performed. A storage system characterized by:

11. 10. The storage system of claim 9, an interface for receiving input from an administrator of the storage system; the control unit receives, via the interface, a decision as to whether to perform a process of displaying the image when an operation related to opening the door is performed. A storage system characterized by:

12. 2. The storage system of claim 1, The display unit is a display disposed on the surface of the door. A storage system characterized by:

13. 2. The storage system of claim 1, The display unit is a projector that projects an image onto the surface of the door. A storage system characterized by:

14. 14. The storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, The image displayed on the door is an advertising image including advertising information. A storage system characterized by:

15. 14. The storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, The image displayed on the door is a notice image containing predetermined notice information different from advertising information, or an entertainment image containing information to entertain users of the storage unit. A storage system characterized by:

16. A control method for a storage system including a plurality of storage units arranged side by side in an in-plane direction, each having a door, and a display unit that displays an image on each of the doors, comprising: Acquire information about the storage unit where the operation related to opening the door has been performed; setting the door on which the image is displayed according to the position of the storage unit specified by the information; displaying an image of the set door on the display unit; A method for controlling a storage system.

17. A control unit of a storage system including a plurality of storage units arranged side by side in an in-plane direction, each having a door, and a display unit that displays an image on each of the doors, a function of acquiring information about the storage unit in which an operation related to opening the door has been performed; a function of setting the door on which the image is to be displayed according to the position of the storage unit identified by the information; A program that executes a function of displaying an image on the display unit for the set door.

Images