Trailer management apparatus and trailer management method

Abstract

To manage trailers in a yard further efficiently.SOLUTION: A trailer management apparatus comprises: an acquisition unit for acquiring, from a camera, trailer identification information that identifies a trailer from a two-dimensional code capable of identifying the trailer, and camera identification information that identifies the camera for reading the two-dimensional code; and a management unit for managing a trailer management table that stores information about trailers that have entered a yard. The management unit records, if it is determined that the trailer corresponding to the trailer identification information has entered the yard based on the camera identification information, the trailer identification information and the trailer entry time in association with each other in the trailer management table.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a trailer management device and a trailer management method. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a moving object tracking device that includes one or more target area cameras that capture images of a target area, a recognition means that recognizes a unique identification code displayed on a moving object moving within the target area based on an image captured by the target area camera, an image position acquisition means that acquires the position of the moving object within the target area based on the captured image, and a position processing means that determines the identity of the moving object based on the recognized identification code and records changes in the position of the moving object over time in a recording unit. The target area cameras include, for example, an entry camera that captures images upon entry into the target area. The moving object tracking device tracks the behavior of a worker wearing a helmet with an identification code attached at the work site, using a work site as the target area and a worker as the moving object as an example.

[0003] Patent Document 2 discloses a license plate recognition device that detects multiple quadrangles of license plate area candidates from an input image, performs character recognition on character areas included in the detected license plate area candidates, selects a license plate area candidate to output from the multiple detected license plate area candidates based on the character recognition results and quadrangle information for each license plate area candidate, and outputs information about the selected license plate area candidate. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-98590 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-217347 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In Patent Document 1, it is assumed that the moving object whose change in position over time is to be recorded is a human (a worker moving within a work site). Therefore, it is easy to track the change in the worker's position over time. However, if the moving object whose change in position over time is to be recorded is something other than a human (for example, an object such as a load), tracking may be difficult.

[0006] For example, consider a case where the moving object whose position changes over time is a trailer within a large business premises (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a "yard") of a transportation company or the like, where tractors (so-called transport trucks) towing trailers (an example of a towed object) loaded with many loads are gathered. In this case, the transport truck (i.e., the tractor) enters (checks in) the yard by a driver who drives the tractor in and out of the yard and parks the trailer in a designated parking space within the yard. Subsequently, a yard worker (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a "yard driver"), who is a person other than the tractor driver, may tow the trailer to a parking space different from the originally designated parking space. In this case, if the trailer is parked in the wrong parking space, the tractor driver may connect the wrong trailer to the tractor and check out of the yard without realizing that the trailer he is towing is the wrong trailer. In this case, when the driver and the yard driver are different people, the parking space the driver thinks the trailer is parked in may not match the parking space the yard driver is heading to. In other words, there has been a problem in that yard drivers cannot find the trailer they are looking for even when they get on the yard jockey and head to the designated parking space. In particular, when the yard has a large area, it is often difficult for yard drivers to visually find the trailer they are looking for. Therefore, there is a need for technology that can visualize the location of each trailer parked in such a yard when needed.

[0007] In recent years, there has been a demand for efficient trailer management by capturing an image of an ID (identification) for identifying a trailer (hereinafter referred to as a "trailer ID") and recognizing the trailer ID from the captured image. However, the captured image may contain a variety of character strings. Therefore, the recognized character string may not necessarily be the trailer ID. Therefore, even when the captured object, such as a trailer, contains multiple character strings of various sizes, colors, or designs, there is a demand for detecting the trailer ID from among the multiple character strings and identifying the captured object.

[0008] In Patent Document 2, a quadrilateral that meets certain conditions is determined to be a candidate quadrilateral for a license plate area. However, since there are currently no unified standards for trailer IDs, the position, size, number of characters, etc. are not fixed. Therefore, even if a technology similar to Patent Document 2 is applied, it is difficult to detect the trailer ID from among the various character strings written at any position on the imaged object.

[0009] The present disclosure has been devised in view of the above-described conventional circumstances, and aims to provide a trailer management device and a trailer management method that more efficiently manage trailers in a yard. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] The present disclosure provides a trailer management device comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires from a camera trailer identification information that identifies a trailer from a two-dimensional code that can identify the trailer, and camera identification information that identifies the camera that read the two-dimensional code; and a management unit that manages a trailer management table that stores information about trailers that have entered a yard, wherein when the management unit determines based on the camera identification information that the trailer corresponding to the trailer identification information has entered the yard, the management unit associates the trailer identification information with the entry time of the trailer and records them in the trailer management table.

[0011] The present disclosure also provides a trailer management method performed by an apparatus that manages trailers entering a yard, which obtains trailer identification information that identifies the trailer from a two-dimensional code that can identify the trailer, and camera identification information that identifies the camera that read the two-dimensional code, from the camera, and if it is determined based on the camera identification information that the trailer corresponding to the trailer identification information has entered the yard, the trailer identification information is associated with the entry time of the trailer and recorded in a trailer management table that stores information about trailers entering the yard. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] The present disclosure allows for more efficient management of trailers within a yard. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a top view showing an example of the placement of cameras installed in a yard in the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a system configuration of a trailer management system according to a first embodiment; [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of a recognition server and a management server according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of management of a camera management table and a trailer management table according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 1 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation procedure of a trailer management system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a top view showing an example of the placement of cameras installed in a yard in the second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of a recognition server according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] State transition diagram of trailer status in trailer management table [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a state transition table according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a camera management table according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a trailer management table according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation procedure of a trailer management system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for updating a status of a trailer management system according to a modification of the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a top view showing an example of the placement of cameras installed in a yard in the third embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of a recognition server according to a third embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a dock port position setting table according to the third embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a frame image in which a parking area is captured. [Figure 18] State transition diagram of cargo status in trailer management table [Figure 19] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for updating the trailer management table when a trailer enters in the third embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a trailer management table before updating in the third embodiment. [Figure 21] Flowchart showing an example of a cargo status update procedure in the third embodiment [Figure 22] Flowchart showing an example of a cargo status update procedure in the third embodiment [Figure 23] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an updated trailer management table according to the third embodiment. [Figure 24] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation procedure of a trailer management system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 25] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation procedure of a trailer management system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a top view showing an example of a flying object patrolling within a yard in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 27]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a system configuration of a trailer management system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 28] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of a recognition server according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a parking ID management table according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 30] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a reference position table according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 31] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the state of the entire area in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 32] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation procedure of a trailer management system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 33] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation procedure of a trailer management system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 34] A diagram showing an example of capturing a 2D code using a mobile camera DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings as appropriate, detailed descriptions of embodiments specifically disclosing a trailer management device and a trailer management method according to the present disclosure will be provided. However, unnecessary detailed descriptions may be omitted. For example, detailed descriptions of well-known matters or redundant descriptions of substantially identical configurations may be omitted. This is to avoid unnecessary redundancy in the following description and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art. Note that the accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter recited in the claims.

[0015] First, terms used in the following embodiments will be defined. (1) Trailer: A container-like object with a rectangular parallelepiped casing loaded with one or more cargoes, towed by a tractor or yard jockey. The trailer has identification information ("trailer ID (ID)") for identifying the trailer. (2) Tractor: A vehicle part of a transport truck that can be docked (coupled) with a trailer or detached from the trailer. (3) Yard: A large business office or site of a transport company or the like where tractors (so-called transport trucks) towing trailers are accumulated. (4) Yard driver: A worker who performs yard work such as driving a yard jockey within the yard to dock a desired trailer in a designated parking space with the yard jockey and move it to the dock. Note that the yard driver may also perform work such as removing and carrying cargo from a trailer moved to the dock. In this embodiment, the yard driver and the driver of a transport truck that checks in to the yard or the driver of a transport truck that checks out to the yard are treated as different people.

[0016] (Embodiment 1) First, with reference to Figure 1, an example of a yard YRD in which a trailer management system 100 (see Figure 2) according to the first embodiment is introduced will be described. Figure 1 is a top view showing an example of the arrangement of cameras C0, CN installed in the yard YRD in the first embodiment. The yard YRD shown in Figure 1 shows the yard YRD as viewed from above. Note that the configuration of the yard YRD and the number and arrangement of cameras shown in Figure 1 are merely examples and are not limited to these.

[0017] As shown in Fig. 1, the yard YRD is a vast site owned by a business such as a transportation company. Specifically, the yard YRD includes within its site a gate GT for carrying out procedures for checking in (entering) and checking out (exiting) trailers TR into the yard YRD, at least one parking area ARA, ARB, ARC, ARD having a plurality of parking spaces, and a warehouse WH where trailers TR are loaded or unloaded.

[0018] The gate GT is passed by both trailers TR entering the yard YRD and trailers TR leaving the yard YRD. At least one camera C0, CN is installed at the gate GT.

[0019] The camera C0 captures an image of a two-dimensional code CD attached to a trailer TR entering the yard YRD and reads information about the trailer TR from the two-dimensional code CD. The camera CN captures an image of a two-dimensional code CD attached to a trailer TR exiting the yard YRD and reads information about the trailer TR from the two-dimensional code CD. Note that the two-dimensional code in this disclosure is a QR code (registered trademark), a barcode, etc.

[0020] Each of the cameras C0 and CN transmits information about the trailer TR that has been read to the recognition server S1 (see FIG. 2) via the access point AP and the local network NW1. Note that the trailer information referred to here is a trailer ID, which is identification information that can identify each trailer TR.

[0021] 1 shows an example in which one camera C0 is installed on the entrance side and one camera CN is installed on the exit side, but the number and arrangement of cameras installed at gate GT may be any number as long as they are able to read the two-dimensional code attached to any position on trailer TR. For example, if the position where the two-dimensional code CD is attached is always on the top surface of trailer TR, camera C0 may be installed so that it can capture an image of the top surface of trailer TR, and if the position where the two-dimensional code CD is attached is on either side of trailer TR, camera C0 may be installed so that it can capture an image of both sides of trailer TR.

[0022] Furthermore, in this disclosure, an example will be described in which the cameras C0 and CN perform an imaging process of imaging the two-dimensional code CD attached to the trailer TR, a detection process of detecting the two-dimensional code CD from the frame image in which the two-dimensional code CD is captured, and a read process of reading information from the two-dimensional code CD. However, each of the cameras C0 and CN may perform only the imaging process of capturing the two-dimensional code CD. In such a case, the cameras C0 and CN transmit the captured frame image to the recognition server S1, and the recognition server S1 executes the detection process and read process of the two-dimensional code CD.

[0023] Each of the parking areas ARA to ARD has parking spaces for one or more trailers TR or tractors. For example, three trailers TR are parked in the parking area ARA shown in Fig. 1. Six trailers TR are parked in the parking area ARB.

[0024] The warehouse WH stores cargo unloaded from trailers TR or cargo to be loaded onto trailers TR. The warehouse WH has at least one dock for loading or unloading cargo from or to trailers TR. The warehouse WH shown in FIG. 1 has four docks DCKA, DCKB, DCKC, and DCKD, which are named "Dock A," "Dock B," "Dock C," and "Dock D," respectively. If each dock has multiple shelters for loading or unloading cargo, each shelter may be given a name such as "Dock A-1" or "Dock A-2," and the docks may be managed on a shelter-by-shelter basis.

[0025] Each of the docks DCKA to DCKD is a location where a yard driver drives a yard jockey to tow a trailer TR parked in a designated parking area and park the trailer there, or where a trailer TR that has entered the yard YRD parks there. At each of the docks DCKA to DCKD, for example, cargo is removed from the trailer and carried into the warehouse WH, or new cargo is carried into the trailer. At each of the docks DCKA to DCKD, the yard driver may dock a parked trailer TR to the yard jockey.

[0026] Next, an example of the system configuration of the trailer management system 100 will be described with reference to each of Figs. 2 to 4. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the system configuration of the trailer management system 100. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the recognition server S1 and the management server AS. Fig. 4 is a diagram explaining an example of management of the camera management table TB11 and the trailer management table TB12 in the first embodiment. Note that Fig. 3 only illustrates the internal configuration of the recognition server S1 and the management server AS of the trailer management system 100, and does not illustrate examples of the internal configuration of other devices. Also, Fig. 4 does not illustrate the access point AP to make the drawing easier to understand.

[0027] The trailer management system 100 manages information about trailers TR entering the yard YRD by reading two-dimensional codes CD attached to the trailers TR by each of the multiple cameras C0, CN. The trailer management system 100 includes each of the multiple cameras C0, CN, an access point AP, a local network NW1, a recognition server S1, a network NW2, and a management server AS.

[0028] Each of the cameras C0 and CN installed in the yard YRD is a so-called network camera, and is connected to the recognition server S1 via the access point AP and the local network NW1 so as to enable data communication with the recognition server S1. Each of the cameras C0 and CN reads the trailer ID from the captured two-dimensional code CD, associates the trailer ID with the camera's identification information that can identify the camera, and transmits the trailer ID and the camera's identification information to the recognition server S1.

[0029] The access point AP connects each of the cameras C0 and CN to the local network NW1 so that data can be communicated between them. The access point AP transmits various data transmitted from each of the cameras C0 and CN to the recognition server S1 via the local network NW1.

[0030] The local network NW1 connects the access point AP and the recognition server S1 so that data can be communicated between them. The local network NW1 transmits various data transmitted from each of the multiple cameras C0 and CN and acquired via the access point AP to the recognition server S1.

[0031] In the present disclosure, a network refers to a wired network, a wireless network, or a combination of a wired network and a wireless network. The wired network may be, for example, at least one of a wired local area network (hereinafter referred to as "LAN"), a wired wide area network (hereinafter referred to as "WAN"), and a power line communication (PLC), or may be another network configuration capable of wired communication. On the other hand, the wireless network in the present disclosure refers to at least one of a wireless LAN such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), a wireless WAN, and a mobile communication network such as 4G or 5G, or may be another network configuration capable of wireless communication.

[0032] The recognition server S1 recognizes trailers TR present in the yard YRD based on various data transmitted from each of the multiple cameras C0 and CN. The recognition server S1 includes a communication unit 10, a processor 11, and a memory 12.

[0033] The communication unit 10 is connected to the access point AP via the local network NW1 and to the management server AS via the network NW2 so as to be able to transmit and receive data therebetween. The communication unit 10 transmits various data or information output from the processor 11 to the management server AS. The communication unit 10 also outputs various data or information transmitted from the access point AP or transmitted from the management server AS to the processor 11.

[0034] The processor 11 is configured using, for example, a Central Processing Unit (hereinafter referred to as "CPU"), a Digital Signal Processor (hereinafter referred to as "DSP"), or a Field Programmable Gate Array (hereinafter referred to as "FPGA") or the like.

[0035] The processor 11 acquires the trailer ID and camera identification information transmitted from each of the multiple cameras C0, CN via the access point AP, and manages the trailers TR entering the yard YRD on the trailer management table TB12 (see Figure 4).

[0036] The memory 12 includes a read-only memory (hereinafter referred to as "ROM") and a random access memory (hereinafter referred to as "RAM"). The ROM stores programs that define the processing (operations) of the processor 11, and data that is referenced when the programs are executed. The RAM is a work memory used when the processor 11 executes the processing (operations), and temporarily stores data or information generated or acquired during each process. The memory 12 stores a camera management table TB11 and a trailer management table TB12.

[0037] The camera management table TB11 is a table for managing each of the cameras C0 and CN installed in the yard YRD. The camera management table TB11 stores, for each camera, a camera ID that enables identification of each camera, the IP address (identification information) of each camera, and the role of each camera in managing the trailer TR.

[0038] For example, the camera management table TB11 shown in Figure 4 stores the camera ID "cam_in", identification information "192.168.0.111", and role "gate in" as information related to camera C0, and stores the camera ID "cam_out", identification information "192.168.0.112", and role "gate out" as information related to camera CN. Note that the role "gate in" here indicates that camera C0 is responsible for detecting trailers TR entering yard YRD. Furthermore, the role "gate out" indicates that camera CN is responsible for detecting trailers TR exiting yard YRD.

[0039] The trailer management table TB12 is a table for managing each trailer TR. The trailer management table TB12 stores, for each trailer TR, the trailer ID, the status of the trailer TR, the gate entry time of the trailer TR, and the gate exit time of the trailer TR.

[0040] The trailer ID is assigned to each trailer TR and is identification information that enables the trailer TR to be identified. In the first embodiment, the status is information that indicates whether the trailer TR is located inside or outside the yard YRD. The gate entry time is information about the time when the trailer TR entered the yard YRD, and indicates the time when the two-dimensional code CD of the trailer TR was imaged (read) by the camera C0. The gate exit time is information about the time when the trailer TR exited the yard YRD, and indicates the time when the two-dimensional code CD of the trailer TR was imaged (read) by the camera CN.

[0041] 4 stores the status "inside yard," the gate entry time "2023 / 9 / 10 19:46:23," and the gate exit time "-" as information about the trailer TR assigned the trailer ID "8828740," and stores the status "outside yard," the gate entry time "2023 / 9 / 9 23:03:34," and the gate exit time "2023 / 9 / 10 19:03:03" as information about the trailer TR assigned the trailer ID "9838734." Note that the gate exit time "-" here indicates that the two-dimensional code CD of the trailer TR has not been imaged by the camera CN, i.e., the trailer has not yet exited the yard YRD.

[0042] The management server AS is a system that manages trailers TR within the yard YRD. The management server AS manages trailers TR entering the yard YRD based on various data transmitted from the recognition server S1. The management server AS manages which trailer ID a trailer TR has parked in each dock within the yard YRD. The management server AS also acquires and manages information relating to the transportation of luggage (cargo) via a transportation management system (not shown) that is connected to the management server AS so that data communication is possible. The management server AS includes a communication unit 20, a processor 21, and a memory 22.

[0043] The information relating to the transportation of cargo here includes, for example, information about the transportation company that will transport the cargo, information about the contracts concluded with each transportation company, information about the current location of the cargo (cargo) (for example, which port if transported by sea, or which relay warehouse if transported by land), whether or not there is cargo (cargo) loaded on each trailer TR, the contents of the cargo (cargo) (for example, drinking water, detergent, flour, or food, etc.), the amount of cargo (cargo) (for example, 10 pallets, or 20 pallets, etc.), and information about the expected date and time of arrival at the yard YRD.

[0044] The communication unit 20 is connected to the recognition server S1 via the network NW2 so as to be able to send and receive data therebetween. The communication unit 20 transmits to the recognition server S1 various data or information output from the processor 21. The communication unit 20 also outputs to the processor 21 various data or information transmitted from the recognition server S1.

[0045] The processor 21 is configured using, for example, a CPU, a DSP, or an FPGA. The processor 21 manages the entry and exit information of trailers TR within the yard YRD based on information about the trailers TR transmitted from the recognition server S1. The processor 21 may display the current entry and exit information of trailers TR within the yard YRD on a monitor (not shown) or may record it in a database (not shown).

[0046] The memory 22 includes a ROM and a RAM. The ROM stores programs that define the processing (operations) of the processor 21 and data referenced when the programs are executed. The RAM is a work memory used when the processing (operations) of the processor 21 is executed, and temporarily stores data or information generated or acquired during each process.

[0047] Next, an example of an operation procedure of the trailer management system 100 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation procedure of the trailer management system 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0048] Each of the cameras C0 and CN captures an image and waits until it acquires the captured frame image data (St111). Each of the cameras C0 and CN acquires the frame image (St112) and detects the two-dimensional code CD from the frame image. Each of the cameras C0 and CN determines whether the two-dimensional code CD has been detected from the frame image (St113).

[0049] When each of the cameras C0 and CN determines that the two-dimensional code CD has been detected from the frame image (St113, YES), it reads the trailer ID from the two-dimensional code CD (St114). Each of the cameras C0 and CN associates the read trailer ID with the camera's own identification information (e.g., IP address) and information such as the capture time of the frame image, and transmits them to the recognition server S1.

[0050] On the other hand, when each of the cameras C0 and CN determines that the two-dimensional code CD is not detected from the frame image (St113, NO), the process returns to step St111.

[0051] The recognition server S1 acquires the trailer ID, camera identification information, and information such as the capture time of the frame image transmitted from the cameras C0 and CN (St120), and acquires the camera role information corresponding to the camera identification information from the camera management table TB11 (St121). The recognition server S1 determines whether the acquired camera role is "gate-in" (St122).

[0052] If the recognition server S1 determines in step St122 that the role of the acquired camera is "gate in" (St122, YES), it refers to the trailer management table TB12 and registers the imaging time of the acquired frame image as the gate entry time of the trailer TR corresponding to the acquired trailer ID (St123). Note that if the recognition server S1 determines in step St123 or step St124 that the gate entry time and gate exit time of the acquired trailer ID have already been registered, it may delete the registered gate entry time and gate exit time and register the imaging time of the acquired frame image in the trailer management table TB12 as the gate entry time of the trailer TR corresponding to the acquired trailer ID.

[0053] On the other hand, if the recognition server S1 determines in step St122 that the role of the acquired camera is not "gate in," that is, that the role of the camera is "gate out" (St122, NO), it refers to the trailer management table TB12 and registers the image capture time of the acquired frame image as the gate exit time of the trailer TR corresponding to the acquired trailer ID (St124).

[0054] As described above, the trailer management system 100 according to embodiment 1 can manage trailers TR entering the yard YRD and trailers TR leaving the yard YRD by reading the two-dimensional codes CD attached to the trailers TR by the cameras C0 and CN installed at the gate GT.

[0055] When the detection process and reading process of the two-dimensional code CD are executed by the recognition server S1, the processes of steps St112 to St114 in the process of step St110 are executed by the recognition server S1.

[0056] (Embodiment 2) The trailer management system 100 according to the first embodiment has been described as an example in which the trailers TR entering the yard YRD and the trailers TR leaving the yard YRD are managed by reading the two-dimensional codes CD attached to the trailers TR by each of the multiple cameras C0 and CN installed at the gate GT. The trailer management system 100 according to the second embodiment will be described as an example in which the trailer management system 100 manages the entry and exit to the yard YRD1, the status of the trailers TR entering the yard YRD1, and the parking area in which the trailers TR are parked.

[0057] In the description of the second embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of the same components will be omitted.

[0058] In addition, in the following explanations and figures, parking area ARA may be referred to as "parking area A" or "A," parking area ARB may be referred to as "parking area B" or "B," parking area ARC may be referred to as "parking area C" or "C," and parking area ARD may be referred to as "parking area D" or "D."

[0059] First, an example of a yard YRD1 in which a trailer management system 100 according to the second embodiment is introduced will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a top view showing an example of the arrangement of cameras C0, C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, and CN installed in the yard YRD1 in the second embodiment.

[0060] The yard YRD1 shown in Fig. 6 is a bird's-eye view of the yard YRD1. Note that the configuration of the yard YRD1 and the number and arrangement of the cameras shown in Fig. 6 are merely examples and are not limiting.

[0061] The yard YRD1 includes a gate GT, at least one parking area ARA to ARD, and a warehouse WH.

[0062] Each of the cameras C1 to C5 is installed so that it can capture an image of the two-dimensional code CD of a trailer TR passing between the gate GT and the parking areas ARA to ARD, or between two different parking areas. Each of the cameras C1 to C5 reads the trailer ID corresponding to the captured trailer TR from the frame image in which the two-dimensional code CD is captured, and transmits it to the recognition server S1A. Note that each of the cameras C1 to C5 only needs to be installed so that it can read the two-dimensional code CD attached to a trailer TR passing between the gate GT and a parking area, or between two different parking areas.

[0063] As in the first embodiment, each of the cameras C1 to C5 may only perform an imaging process of imaging the trailer TR. In such a case, the detection process and readout process of the two-dimensional code CD may be performed by the recognition server S1A.

[0064] Here, the recognition server S1A in the second embodiment and an example of state transition of the trailer TR in the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 7 to Fig. 9. Fig. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the recognition server S1A in the second embodiment. Fig. 8 is a state transition diagram of the status of the trailer TR in the trailer management table TB12A. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the state transition table TB13 in the second embodiment.

[0065] The recognition server S1A manages the entry and exit of trailers TR into and from the yard YRD1, the status indicating the state of the trailer TR within the yard YRD1 (here, whether the trailer TR is moving within the yard YRD1 or whether it is parked in one of the parking areas ARA to ARD), and the position of the trailer TR. The recognition server S1A includes a communication unit 10, a processor 11, and a memory 12A.

[0066] The memory 12A stores a camera management table TB11A (see FIG. 10), a trailer management table TB12A (see FIG. 11), and a state transition table TB13 (see FIG. 9).

[0067] The recognition server S1A in the second embodiment estimates and manages the status of the trailer TR and the area corresponding to the current position of the trailer TR based on the detection results of the trailer TR by each of the cameras C0 to CN.

[0068] 8 shows the transition of the status of the trailer TR. The status of the trailer TR transitions between the status "outside yard" indicating that the trailer TR has left the yard YRD1 and is no longer under the management of the recognition server S1A, the status "in motion" indicating that the trailer TR is moving within the yard YRD1, and the status "parked" indicating that the trailer TR has been parked in one of the parking areas within the yard YRD1.

[0069] When a trailer TR is detected by any of the cameras C0 to CN, the recognition server S1A sets the status of the trailer TR to "moving." Furthermore, when a trailer TR is detected by any of the cameras C1 to C5, the recognition server S1A measures the elapsed time from the time the trailer TR was detected. When the recognition server S1A determines that a predetermined time (e.g., 10 minutes or more) has passed since the trailer TR was detected by the cameras C1 to C5, the recognition server S1A sets (changes) the status of the trailer TR from "moving" to "parked." On the other hand, when the recognition server S1A determines that a predetermined time (e.g., 10 minutes or more) has not passed since the trailer TR was detected by the cameras C1 to C5, the recognition server S1A maintains the status of the trailer TR as "moving."

[0070] 9 includes, as information for estimating the destination of the trailer TR, camera identification information (camera ID), information on the area to which the trailer TR is to be moved (next area) indicated by the cameras C1 to C5 that detected the trailer TR, and information on the area before which the trailer TR is to be moved to the destination (current area). Note that the various pieces of information stored and managed by the state transition table TB13 are stored in the camera management table TB11A as information on the role of the camera.

[0071] 9 indicates that when camera ID "cam1 (camera C1)" detects a trailer TR whose current area is "gate," the next area to which the trailer TR is to move is "A (parking area ARA)," and when camera ID "cam5 (camera C5)" detects a trailer TR whose current area is "gate," the next area to which the trailer TR is to move is "D (parking area ARD)." Furthermore, state transition table TB13 indicates that when camera ID "cam1 (camera C1)" detects a trailer TR whose current area is "A," the next area to which the trailer TR is to move is "gate," and when camera ID "cam2 (camera C2)" detects a trailer TR whose current area is "gate," the next area to which the trailer TR is to move is "B (parking area ARB)."

[0072] This allows the recognition server S1A in the second embodiment to manage the status of the trailer TR, the area in which the trailer TR is located, and the like.

[0073] For example, if the recognition server S1A determines that the status of the trailer TR has remained "in motion" for 10 minutes or more since the status of the trailer TR was set to "in motion", the recognition server S1A sets (changes) the status of the trailer ID to "parked" in the parking area that was last imaged (detected). Also, for example, if the two-dimensional code CD of a trailer TR whose status is "parked" is imaged by one of the cameras C1 to C5 and it is detected that the trailer TR is moving between different parking areas, the recognition server S1A sets (changes) the status of the trailer TR to "in motion". This allows the recognition server S1A to manage the status of the trailer TR.

[0074] Furthermore, for example, when the trailer TR is detected by camera C2 while its current location is in "Area A (Parking Area A)", the recognition server S1A determines that the trailer TR has moved from "Area A (Parking Area A)" to "Area B (Parking Area B)", and can manage the parking area (i.e., the current location) of the trailer TR by setting (changing) the parking area information of the trailer TR to "Area B (Parking Area B)".

[0075] Next, a camera management table TB11A and a trailer management table TB12A according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 10 and Fig. 11. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the camera management table TB11A according to the second embodiment. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the trailer management table TB12A according to the second embodiment.

[0076] The camera management table TB11A is a table for managing each of the cameras C0 to CN installed in the yard YRD1. The role information stored in the camera management table TB11A is generated based on the state transition table TB13, and includes information on the passing areas (current area and next area) of the trailer TR that can be detected by the camera.

[0077] 10, camera ID "cam1" corresponds to camera C1, camera ID "cam2" corresponds to camera C2, camera ID "cam3" corresponds to camera C3, camera ID "cam4" corresponds to camera C4, and camera ID "cam5" corresponds to camera C5. Furthermore, camera management table TB11 indicates that camera C1 has the role of detecting trailers TR passing between gate GT and parking area ARA, camera C2 between parking area ARA and parking area ARB, camera C3 between parking area ARB and parking area ARC, camera C4 between parking area ARC and parking area ARD, and camera C5 between parking area ARD and gate GT.

[0078] The trailer management table TB12A stores, for each trailer TR, the trailer ID, the status of the trailer TR, the passing camera and passing area through which the trailer TR passed, the passing date and time of the trailer TR, and the parking area and parking date and time of the trailer TR.

[0079] In the second embodiment, the status of the trailer TR indicates whether the current trailer TR is parked, moving, or out of management (outside the yard YRD1). The passing camera is the camera that last captured an image of the trailer TR. The passing area is the area (i.e., a parking area or gate) that the trailer TR last passed through, and is an area identified based on the camera that captured the image and the direction of movement of the trailer TR. The passing date and time is information on the image capture date and time of the last frame image of the trailer TR, and is information on the date and time that the trailer TR passed through the area corresponding to the passing area. The parking area is the parking area where the trailer TR is estimated to be currently parked. The parking date and time is information on the date and time that the trailer TR is estimated to have parked in the parking area where the trailer TR is estimated to be currently parked.

[0080] The trailer management table TB12A shown in Figure 11 shows information about the trailer TR assigned the trailer ID "8828740": the status is "parked", and the passing camera "cam1 (camera C1)" captured the trailer passing through the passing area "A (parking area A)" on the passing date and time "2023 / 9 / 10 19:35:55", and it also shows that the trailer TR is currently estimated to have been parked in the parking area "A (parking area A)" since the parking date and time "2023 / 9 / 10 19:45:55". The trailer management table TB12A shows information about the trailer TR assigned the trailer ID "1231237" that indicates that the status is "in motion" and that the passing camera "cam3 (camera C3)" captured the trailer passing through the passing area "C (parking area C)" on the passing date and time "2023 / 9 / 11 12:02:33", and also indicates that the trailer TR is not currently parked in any parking area (parking area "-" and parking date and time "-"). Furthermore, the trailer management table TB12A contains information about the trailer TR assigned the trailer ID "3456345," which indicates that the trailer TR was parked in parking area "D (parking area D)" on parking date and time "2023 / 9 / 10 13:19:09," and then its passing on passage date and time "2023 / 9 / 11 12:03:00" was photographed by the passing camera "cam5 (camera C5)," and that the status is "moving," and that the trailer is moving in a location other than parking areas ARA to ARD (passing area "- (outside parking area)").

[0081] Next, an example of an operation procedure of the trailer management system 100 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation procedure of the trailer management system 100 according to the second embodiment.

[0082] Each of the cameras C0 to CN executes a process of reading the two-dimensional code CD attached to the trailer TR (St110). Note that step St110 here refers to the process of steps St111 to St114 shown in FIG.

[0083] The recognition server S1A acquires the trailer IDs, camera identification information, and various data such as the capture dates and times of frame images transmitted from the cameras C0 to CN. The recognition server S1 acquires information corresponding to the acquired trailer ID from the trailer management table TB12A (St211). The recognition server S1A determines whether or not it has successfully acquired the information corresponding to this trailer ID from the trailer management table TB12A, that is, whether or not the information corresponding to the acquired trailer ID is stored in the trailer management table TB12A (St212).

[0084] If the recognition server S1A determines in step St212 that it has not been successful in obtaining information corresponding to this trailer ID from the trailer management table TB12A (St212, NO), it adds (registers) a new record for the obtained trailer ID to the trailer management table TB12A and sets information on the passing camera, passing area, and passing date and time based on the various obtained data in association with the obtained trailer ID (St213).The recognition server S1A sets the status of the trailer TR corresponding to the trailer ID to "moving" in the trailer management table TB12A (St214).

[0085] On the other hand, if the recognition server S1A determines in step St212 that it has successfully obtained information corresponding to the obtained trailer ID from the trailer management table TB12A (St212, YES), it determines whether the status of the trailer TR corresponding to the trailer ID is "moving" or "parked" (St215).

[0086] If the recognition server S1A determines in step St215 that the status of the trailer TR corresponding to the trailer ID is "moving" (St215, moving), it updates the information on the passing camera, passing area, and passing date and time corresponding to the trailer ID to the various acquired data (St216). Specifically, the recognition server S1A updates the information on the "passing camera" to the information on the acquired camera ID, updates the information on the "passing area" based on a combination of the information on the current passing area and the acquired camera ID, and updates the information on the "passing date and time" to the information on the image capturing date and time when the two-dimensional code CD was captured.

[0087] On the other hand, if the recognition server S1A determines in step St215 that the status of the trailer TR corresponding to the trailer ID is "moving" (St215, parked), it updates the information on the passing camera, passing area, and passing date and time corresponding to the trailer ID based on the various acquired data (St217).The recognition server S1A updates the status corresponding to the trailer ID in the trailer management table TB12A from "parked" to "moving" (St218).

[0088] As described above, the trailer management system 100 of embodiment 2 can manage the entry and exit of trailers TR into yard YRD, the status of trailers TR within yard YRD (here, whether they are moving or parked), and the position of trailers TR within yard YRD by reading the two-dimensional codes CD attached to trailers TR by each of the multiple cameras C0 to CN installed within gate GT and yard YRD.

[0089] (Modification of the second embodiment) The trailer management system 100 in the above-described second embodiment has been described as an example in which the detection of trailers TR by cameras C1 to C5 and the update of the status of trailers TR by recognition server S1A are executed synchronously. An example in which the trailer management system 100 in a modified example of the second embodiment manages the detection of trailers TR and the update of the status of trailers TR asynchronously will be described.

[0090] Next, a method for managing the detection of trailers TR and the update of the status of trailers TR asynchronously will be described with reference to Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a status update procedure of the trailer management system 100 according to a modification of the second embodiment.

[0091] The recognition server S1A acquires information on the current date and time (St221). The recognition server S1A also acquires all trailer IDs stored in the trailer management table TB12A whose trailer TR status is "in motion" and lists them (St222). The recognition server S1A determines whether the list includes any trailer ID (data) whose trailer TR status is "in motion" (St223).

[0092] If the recognition server S1A determines in step St223 that the list includes a trailer ID whose trailer TR status is "moving" (St223, YES), it determines whether the passing date and time of the trailer TR associated with the trailer ID is more than a predetermined time (e.g., 10 minutes) in the past than the current date and time (St224).

[0093] On the other hand, if the recognition server S1A determines in step St223 that the list does not include any trailer ID of the trailer TR whose status is "in motion" (St223, NO), it ends the operation procedure shown in FIG.

[0094] If the recognition server S1A determines in step St224 that the passing date and time of the trailer TR associated with the trailer ID is more than a predetermined time (e.g., 10 minutes) in the past than the current date and time (St224, YES), it sets (changes) the status of the trailer ID whose status of the trailer TR is "moving" to "parked," copies the information of the passing area to the parking area, and copies the information of the passing date and time to the parking date and time (St225).

[0095] On the other hand, if the recognition server S1A determines in step St224 that the passing date and time of the trailer TR associated with the trailer ID is not earlier than a predetermined time (e.g., 10 minutes) than the current date and time (St224, NO), it returns to the processing of step St223.

[0096] As described above, the trailer management system 100 according to the modified example of the second embodiment can manage the status of the trailer TR within the yard YRD (here, whether it is moving or parked) based on the date and time of passage of the trailer TR whose status is "moving", that is, the time elapsed since it was last photographed by the cameras C1 to C5.

[0097] (Embodiment 3) In the trailer management system 100 according to the second embodiment, a plurality of cameras C0 to CN are installed so as to be able to capture images of trailers TR passing through gate GT, between gate GT and parking areas ARA, ARD, and between two different parking areas. The trailer management system 100 according to the second embodiment uses these cameras C0 to CN to manage the entry and exit of trailers TR into yard YRD1, the status of trailers TR entering yard YRD1, and the current position (parking area) of trailers TR.

[0098] In the trailer management system 100 according to the third embodiment, a plurality of cameras C0-CN, DC1, DC2, DC3, and DC4 are installed so as to be able to capture images of trailers TR passing through gate GT, between gate GT and parking areas ARA and ARD, and between two different parking areas, and trailers TR parked at the dock ports of each of docks DCKA to DCKD. An example will be described in which the trailer management system 100 according to the third embodiment uses these cameras C0-CN, DC1-DC4 to manage the status, current position, and cargo of trailers TR entering yard YRD2, and manage trailers TR being loaded or unloaded at warehouse WH.

[0099] In the description of the third embodiment, the same components as those in the first or second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of the same components will be omitted.

[0100] First, an example of a yard YRD2 in which a trailer management system 100 according to the third embodiment is introduced will be described with reference to Fig. 14. Fig. 14 is a top view showing an example of the arrangement of cameras C0 to CN, DC1 to DC4 installed in the yard YRD according to the third embodiment.

[0101] The yard YRD2 shown in Fig. 14 is a bird's-eye view of the yard YRD2. Note that the configuration of the yard YRD2 and the number and arrangement of the cameras shown in Fig. 14 are merely examples and are not intended to be limiting.

[0102] The yard YRD2 includes a gate GT, at least one parking area ARA to ARD, and a warehouse WH. The trailer management system 100 according to the third embodiment manages the status, current location, and cargo of trailers TR entering the yard YRD2, and manages trailers TR being loaded or unloaded at the warehouse WH.

[0103] Each of cameras DC1 to DC4 is installed so as to be able to capture an image of the two-dimensional code CD of a trailer TR parked at each of the multiple dock ports of each of docks DCKA to DCKD. Each of cameras DC1 to DC4 reads a trailer ID corresponding to the captured trailer TR from the captured two-dimensional code CD and transmits various data to recognition server S1B via access point AP and local network NW1. Note that each of cameras DC1 to DC4 only needs to be installed so as to be able to capture (read) an image of (the two-dimensional code CD of) a trailer TR parked at each of the dock ports of each of docks DCKA to DCKD, and multiple cameras may be installed in one dock.

[0104] As in the first and second embodiments, each of the cameras DC1 to DC4 may only perform the process of capturing an image of the trailer TR. In such a case, the process of detecting and reading the two-dimensional code CD from the captured frame image may be performed by the recognition server S1B.

[0105] Each of the docks DCKA to DCKD has at least one dock port (see FIG. 17) where loading or unloading of cargo from trailers TR is carried out.

[0106] The recognition server S1B in the third embodiment will now be described with reference to Fig. 15. Fig. 15 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the recognition server S1B in the third embodiment.

[0107] The recognition server S1B manages the status, current location, and cargo of trailers TR entering the yard YRD2, and manages trailers TR being loaded or unloaded in the warehouse WH. The recognition server S1B includes a communication unit 10, a processor 11, and a memory 12B.

[0108] The memory 12B stores a camera management table TB11A, trailer management tables TB12B1 and TB12B2, a state transition table TB13, and a dock port position setting table TB14.

[0109] Next, the dock port position setting table TB14 will be described with reference to Fig. 16 and Fig. 17. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the dock port position setting table TB14 in the third embodiment. Fig. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a frame image IMG1 in which the dock DCKA is imaged. Note that Fig. 17 describes an example in which the dock port of the trailer TR parked at the dock DCKA is identified based on the frame image IMG1 in which the dock DCKA is imaged, but the process of identifying the dock port is similar for the other docks DCKB to DCKD.

[0110] The dock port position setting table TB14 includes a camera ID that is identification information for each camera DC1-DC4, a reference X coordinate and a reference Y coordinate that indicate the position of the dock port (i.e., the dock slot) relative to the reference point Pt0 of the angle of view of each camera, a dock ID that indicates which of the docks DCKA-DCKD it is, and a dock slot number that indicates the dock slot corresponding to the dock port position. Note that the reference X coordinate and the reference Y coordinate are coordinates with one pixel of the frame image as one unit.

[0111] 16, camera ID "A1" corresponds to camera DC1, camera ID "B1" corresponds to camera DC2, camera ID "C1" corresponds to camera DC3, and camera ID "D1" corresponds to camera DC4. In dock port position setting table TB14, dock ID "1" corresponds to dock DCKA, dock ID "2" corresponds to dock DCKB, dock ID "3" corresponds to dock DCKC, and dock ID "4" corresponds to dock DCKD. In the dock port position setting table TB14, the positions (coordinates) of dock slot numbers "101" to "103" relative to the reference point Pt0 of the angle of view of camera DC1 indicate that the coordinates of dock slot number "101" are (X,Y) = (120,500), the coordinates of dock slot number "102" are (X,Y) = (320,500), and the coordinates of dock slot number "103" are (X,Y) = (520,500).

[0112] 17, a reference point Pt0 is set for the camera DC1 capturing an image of the dock port of the dock DCKA with respect to the camera's own angle of view. The recognition server S1B calculates (measures) the position of the two-dimensional code CD of the trailer TR captured in the frame image IMG1 transmitted from the camera DC1. The recognition server S1B calculates and identifies the dock port where the trailer TR is parked based on the calculated position of the two-dimensional code CD of the trailer TR and the reference X coordinate and reference Y coordinate of each dock port (dock slot) stored in the dock port position setting table TB14.

[0113] For example, the frame image IMG1 shown in Fig. 17 is a captured image of nine dock ports of a dock DCKA captured by a camera DC1. The dock DCKA shown in the frame image IMG1 has trailers TR parked at each of the dock port numbers "101" to "104." In this case, the recognition server S1B calculates the position of each of the four two-dimensional codes CD relative to the position (X, Y) = (0, 0) of the reference point Pt0, and compares the calculated positions with the reference X coordinate and reference Y coordinate of each dock port (dock slot) stored in the dock port position setting table TB14 to identify the dock port (dock port numbers "101" to "104") at which each trailer TR is parked.

[0114] Next, an example of the state transition of the cargo status and an example of the procedure for updating the cargo status will be described with reference to Fig. 18. Fig. 18 is a state transition diagram of the cargo status of the trailer management tables TB12B1 and TB12B2.

[0115] The state transition diagram shown in Fig. 18 shows the transition of the load status, which indicates information about the load of the trailer TR. After entering yard YRD2, the load status of the trailer TR transitions between the status "empty (no load)" or the status "loaded (loaded)" when the trailer TR is moving within yard YRD2 or parked in one of the parking areas, and the status "loading" or the status "unloading" when the trailer TR is parked at one of docks DCKA to DCKD.

[0116] For example, if the trailer TR has a load when it enters yard YRD2, the load status of the trailer TR starts transitioning from the status "loaded (with load)" and transitions to the status "unloading" while the load is being unloaded at docks DCKA to DCKD. The load status of the trailer TR transitions to the status "empty (no load)" after unloading at docks DCKA to DCKD is completed. Here, the load status of the trailer TR remains as "empty (no load)" when the trailer TR leaves yard YRD. On the other hand, if the trailer TR does not leave yard YRD but is loaded at the same or another dock, the status transitions to "loading", and if the trailer TR leaves yard YRD, the status transitions from "loading" to "loaded (with load)".

[0117] When the recognition server S1B detects a trailer TR by the camera C0, that is, when it detects the entry of a trailer TR, it requests cargo information from the management server AS, based on the trailer ID of the detected trailer TR, as to whether or not this trailer TR has cargo. The management server AS transmits cargo information, as to whether or not the corresponding trailer ID has cargo (cargo), to the recognition server S1B, based on information related to the transportation of cargo. The recognition server S1B sets the cargo status of the trailer ID stored in the trailer management tables TB12B1 and TB12B2 to "empty" or "loaded" based on the cargo information acquired from the management server AS.

[0118] When a trailer TR is detected by any of the cameras DC1 to DC4 that capture images of the docks DCKA to DCKD, the recognition server S1B obtains loading status information corresponding to the trailer ID of the detected trailer TR from the trailer management tables TB12B1, TB12B2 (see Figures 20 and 23). If the loading status of the trailer TR is "empty", the recognition server S1B sets (changes) it to "being loaded", and if the loading status is "loaded", the recognition server S1B sets (changes) it to "being unloaded".

[0119] Furthermore, when a trailer TR is detected by any of the cameras C1 to C5, the recognition server S1B acquires loading status information corresponding to the trailer ID of the detected trailer TR from the trailer management tables TB12B1, TB12B2 (see Figs. 20 and 23). If the loading status of the trailer TR is "unloading", the recognition server S1B sets (changes) it to "empty", and if the loading status is "loading", the recognition server S1B sets (changes) it to "loaded".

[0120] Next, an example of a procedure for updating the trailer management table TB12B1 will be described with reference to Fig. 19 and Fig. 20. Fig. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for updating the trailer management table TB12B1 when a trailer TR enters in embodiment 3. Fig. 20 is a diagram showing an example of the trailer management table TB12B1 before updating in embodiment 3.

[0121] The recognition server S1B reads the trailer ID of the trailer TR that has entered the yard YRD2 from the gate GT based on the various data transmitted from the camera C0 (St110A). The recognition server S1B registers the read trailer ID in the trailer management table TB12B1. When the recognition server S1B determines that it has detected a new trailer TR that has entered the yard YRD2, it obtains information on the trailer ID of this trailer TR from the trailer management table TB12B1 (St311).

[0122] Based on the acquired trailer ID, the recognition server S1B generates a control command requesting the management server AS to transmit the load information of the trailer TR corresponding to this trailer ID, and transmits the control command to the management server AS (St312). The recognition server S1B acquires the load information of the trailer TR transmitted from the management server AS (St313), and additionally registers the acquired load information of the trailer TR in the trailer management table TB12B1 (St314). Note that in step St314, the load status is registered as either "empty", which indicates that the trailer TR is not loaded, or "loaded", which indicates that the trailer TR is loaded.

[0123] The trailer management table TB12B1 is managed by the recognition server S1B. When the recognition server S1B detects a trailer TR entering the yard YRD2 using the camera C0 that captures the gate GT, the recognition server S1B acquires the cargo information of the trailer TR and updates the cargo status in the trailer management table TB12B1.

[0124] The trailer management table TB12B1 shown in FIG. 20 will be described. The trailer TR with trailer ID "8828740" shown in the trailer management table TB12B1 has a loading status of "empty," indicating that it is unladen and parked in dock port "102." The trailer TR with trailer ID "1231237" has a loading status of "loaded," indicating that it is loaded and is parked in dock port "101" without being parked in any parking area. The trailer TR with trailer ID "9838734" has a loading status of "loaded," indicating that it is loaded and is parked in parking area "D." The trailer TR with trailer ID "3456345" has a loading status of "empty," indicating that it is unladen and parked in parking area "D."

[0125] As described above, the trailer management system 100 according to the third embodiment can manage the loading status of each trailer TR in the yard YRD2 thereafter by acquiring the loading information of the trailer TR at the time when it is determined that the trailer TR has entered the yard YRD2.

[0126] Next, an example of a procedure for updating the trailer management table TB12B1 will be described with reference to Fig. 21 to Fig. 23. Fig. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for updating the cargo status in the third embodiment. Fig. 22 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for updating the cargo status in the third embodiment. Fig. 23 is a diagram showing an example of an updated trailer management table TB12B2 in the third embodiment.

[0127] The recognition server S1B reads the trailer ID of the trailer TR that has newly stopped at one of the docks DCKA to DCKD based on the various data transmitted from the cameras DC1 to DC4 (St110B). The recognition server S1B acquires the identification information (IP address) of the camera DC1 to DC4 that read the trailer ID of the trailer TR (St321).

[0128] The recognition server S1B acquires the camera IDs corresponding to the identification information (IP addresses) of the cameras DC1 to DC4 from the camera management table TB11A (St322). The recognition server S1B registers the docking date and time of the trailer TR stored in the trailer management table TB12B1 based on the capture date and time of the frame images of the cameras DC1 to DC4 (St323).

[0129] The recognition server S1B compares the acquired camera ID and the coordinates (position) of the two-dimensional code CD of the trailer TR shown in the frame image with the reference X coordinate and reference Y coordinate stored in the parking ID management table TB15, and identifies the dock port where the trailer TR is parked, i.e., the dock slot number (St324). Specifically, the recognition server S1B identifies the dock port where the trailer TR is parked based on whether the difference between the coordinates (position) of the two-dimensional code CD and the reference X coordinate and reference Y coordinate stored in the parking ID management table TB15 is within a predetermined number of pixels.

[0130] The recognition server S1B associates the trailer ID with the identified dock slot information and transmits it to the management server AS, inquiring whether the trailer TR is parked in the correct dock port (dock slot). Note that the recognition server S1B may transmit the trailer ID to the management server AS and request transmission of information on the correct dock port (dock slot) where the trailer TR corresponding to this trailer ID should be parked. Based on the result of the inquiry transmitted from the management server AS, the recognition server S1B determines whether the trailer TR is parked in the correct dock port (dock slot) (St325).

[0131] If the recognition server S1B determines in step St325 that the trailer TR is parked at the correct dock port (dock slot) (St325, YES), it obtains information on the current cargo status corresponding to the trailer ID of the trailer TR from the trailer management table TB12B1 (St326).

[0132] On the other hand, if the recognition server S1B determines in step St325 that the trailer TR is not parked at the correct dock port (dock slot) (St325, NO), it generates an alarm notifying that the trailer TR is parked at the wrong dock port (dock slot) and issues the alarm by sending it to the management server AS (St327). The management server AS displays the alarm on a connected monitor (not shown). In addition, the recognition server S1B temporarily suspends updating of the cargo status of the trailer TR that has been determined to be parked at the wrong dock port (dock slot).

[0133] Note that the method of issuing the alarm is not limited to this, and any method may be used as long as it can notify an administrator who manages the recognition server S1B or the management server AS, a worker loading or unloading cargo at the dock, or a driver in the yard that the trailer TR is parked in the wrong dock port (dock slot).

[0134] The recognition server S1B determines whether the cargo status corresponding to the trailer ID of the trailer TR is "loaded" or "empty" (St328).

[0135] If the recognition server S1B determines in step St328 that the loading status of the trailer TR is "loaded" (St328, loaded), it changes (updates) the loading status of the trailer TR from "loaded" to "unloading" (St329). If the recognition server S1B detects this trailer ID by reading the two-dimensional code CD with the cameras C1 to C5, it changes (updates) the status from "parked" to "moving" (St331).

[0136] For example, in the trailer management table TB12B1 shown in FIG. 20, the recognition server S1B determines that the trailer TR with trailer ID "1231237" has a cargo status of "loaded." In such a case, the recognition server S1B changes (updates) the cargo status of the trailer with trailer ID "1231237" from "loaded" to "unloading." The trailer management table TB12B2 shown in FIG. 23 is the trailer management table after the cargo status of the trailer with trailer ID "1231237" has been changed (updated) from "loaded" to "unloading." In this way, the recognition server S1B in the third embodiment updates the cargo status stored in the trailer management table in real time.

[0137] On the other hand, if the recognition server S1B determines in step St328 that the loading status of the trailer TR is "empty" (St328, empty), it changes (updates) the loading status of the trailer TR from "empty" to "loading" (St330). If the recognition server S1B detects this trailer ID by reading the two-dimensional code CD with the cameras C1 to C5, it changes (updates) the status from "parked" to "moving" (St331).

[0138] The recognition server S1B associates the trailer ID of the trailer TR, the dock port information, and the loading status information, and transmits them to the management server AS to notify the status of loading or unloading of the trailer TR in the yard YRD2 (St332). The recognition server S1B determines whether there is an unread two-dimensional code CD in the frame image IMG1 captured by the cameras DC1 to DC4 (St333).

[0139] If the recognition server S1B determines that there is an unread two-dimensional code CD in the frame images captured by the cameras DC1 to DC4 (St333, YES), it proceeds to the processing of step St114 in step St110B. On the other hand, if the recognition server S1B determines that there is no unread two-dimensional code CD in the frame images captured by the cameras DC1 to DC4 (St333, NO), it proceeds to the processing of step St111 in step St110B.

[0140] As described above, the trailer management system 100 according to the third embodiment can manage the state of the cargo on the trailer TR, that is, the cargo status, in real time. Furthermore, by determining whether the dock port where the trailer TR is parked is correct or incorrect, the trailer management system 100 can determine and notify in real time whether the trailer TR is parked at the wrong dock port (dock slot), thereby more effectively preventing the loading of the wrong cargo and the unloading of the cargo at the wrong location (dock or dock port). This allows the trailer management system 100 to manage the position of the trailer TR within the yard YRD and the cargo on the trailer TR.

[0141] Next, an example of an operation procedure of the trailer management system 100 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 24 and Fig. 25. Fig. 24 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation procedure of the trailer management system 100 according to the third embodiment. Fig. 25 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation procedure of the trailer management system 100 according to the third embodiment.

[0142] Based on the various data transmitted from the cameras C0-CN, DC1-DC4, the recognition server S1B reads the trailer ID of the trailer TR that has been photographed by the cameras C0-CN, DC1-DC4 and detected the two-dimensional code CD (St110C).The recognition server S1B acquires the identification information (IP address) of the cameras DC1-DC4 that read the trailer ID of the trailer TR (St411).

[0143] The recognition server S1B acquires the camera IDs corresponding to the identification information (IP addresses) of the cameras C0 to CN and DC1 to DC4 from the camera management table TB11A (St412). The recognition server S1B acquires the information of the trailer TR associated with the trailer ID from the trailer management table TB12B1 (St413).

[0144] The recognition server S1B determines whether or not the information on the trailer TR has been acquired from the trailer management table TB12B1, that is, whether or not the information on the detected trailer TR has been registered in the trailer management table TB12B1 (St414).

[0145] If the recognition server S1B determines in step St414 that it cannot obtain information about the trailer TR from the trailer management table TB12B1 (St414, NO), it newly registers information about the passing camera "cam_in", the passing area, or the passing date and time as trailer ID information in the trailer management table TB12B1 based on information about the camera C0 that read the two-dimensional code CD of the trailer TR and information about the image capturing date and time when the two-dimensional code CD was captured (St415). The recognition server S1B sets the status of this trailer TR to "moving" in the trailer management table TB12B1 (St416).

[0146] On the other hand, if the recognition server S1B determines in step St414 that it has been able to obtain information about the trailer TR from the trailer management table TB12B1 (St414, YES), it further determines whether the current status of the trailer TR is "in motion," "parked," or "docked" (St417).

[0147] If the recognition server S1B determines in step St417 that the current status of the trailer TR is "moving" (St417, moving), it updates the information on the camera that detected the trailer TR, the passing area, or the passing date and time in the trailer management table TB12B1 based on information such as the camera that detected the trailer TR and the date and time when the two-dimensional code CD was captured (St418).

[0148] Furthermore, if the recognition server S1B determines in step St417 that the current status of the trailer TR is "parked" (St417, parked), it updates the information on the camera that the trailer TR passed through, the area that the trailer TR passed through, or the date and time that the trailer TR passed through in the trailer management table TB12B1 based on information on the camera that detected the trailer TR and information such as the date and time that the two-dimensional code CD was captured (St419), and sets (changes) the status of the trailer TR from "parked" to "moving" (St420).

[0149] Furthermore, if the recognition server S1B determines in step St417 that the current status of the trailer TR is "dock connected" (St417, dock connected), it updates the information on the camera through which the trailer TR passed, the passing area, or the passing date and time based on information such as the information on the camera that detected the trailer TR and the image date and time when the two-dimensional code CD was captured (St421), and determines whether the loading status of the trailer TR is "loaded" or "empty" (St422).

[0150] If the recognition server S1B determines in step St422 that the loading status of the trailer TR is "loaded" (St422, loaded), it sets (changes) the status of the trailer TR in the trailer management table TB12B1 to "moving" and changes (updates) the loading status to "empty" (St423).

[0151] On the other hand, if the recognition server S1B determines in step St422 that the loading status of the trailer TR is "loaded" (St422, loaded), it sets (changes) the status of the trailer TR in the trailer management table TB12B1 to "moving" and changes (updates) the loading status to "loaded" (St424).

[0152] As described above, the trailer management system 100 according to the third embodiment can manage in real time the status and position (parking area or dock slot) of the trailer TR entering the yard YRD2, and the state of the cargo on the trailer TR (cargo status).

[0153] (Fourth embodiment) The trailer management system 100 according to the second embodiment uses a plurality of cameras C1 to C5 fixedly installed within the yard YRD1 to capture images of trailers TR passing between the gate GT and the parking areas ARA, ARD, and between two different parking areas, and estimates and manages the positions of the trailers TR (parking areas).The trailer management system 100 according to the fourth embodiment will be described as an example in which an aircraft DRN equipped with cameras (not shown) that fly above the yard YRD3 and capture images of the two-dimensional codes CD of trailers TR parked in each of the parking areas ARA to ARD, and manages the positions of the trailers TR (parking areas).

[0154] In the description of the fourth embodiment, the same components as those in the first and second embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of the same components will be omitted.

[0155] First, an example of a yard YRD3 in which a trailer management system 100A according to the fourth embodiment is introduced will be described with reference to Fig. 26. Fig. 26 is a top view showing an example of the patrol of an air vehicle DRN patrolling within the yard YRD3 in the fourth embodiment. Note that the patrol example shown in Fig. 26 is an example and is not limited to this. Furthermore, there may be more than one air vehicle DRN.

[0156] The trailer management system 100A according to the fourth embodiment includes a gate GT, a warehouse WH, at least one parking area ARA to ARD, and at least one flying object DRN. The trailer management system 100A may also include cameras C0 and CN.

[0157] The flying object DRN is a flying mobile object such as a drone, which includes a camera (not shown) connected to the recognition server S1C so as to be able to communicate wirelessly with the recognition server S1C. Unlike the cameras C1 to C5 in the second embodiment, which capture images of the two-dimensional code CD of the trailer TR moving between areas (between the gate GT and the parking areas ARA, ARD, or between different parking areas), the flying object DRN captures images of each of the parking areas ARA to ARD from above the yard YRD3.

[0158] The flying object DRN is connected to the access point AP so as to be able to communicate wirelessly, and is also connected to the recognition server S1C so as to be able to communicate via the local network NW1. The flying object DRN reads the trailer ID corresponding to the captured trailer TR from the captured two-dimensional code CD and transmits various data to the recognition server S1C. Note that the wireless communication referred to here refers to communication such as wireless LAN such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), wireless WAN, 4G or 5G.

[0159] The trailer management system 100A may have another flying object that detects trailers TR entering and exiting the gate GT from above the gate GT. Such an flying object DRN that captures images of the gate GT may not patrol each of the parking areas ARA to ARD, but may hover above the gate GT and continue to detect trailers TR entering and exiting the gate GT.

[0160] In the example shown in Figure 26, the flying object DRN flies along each of the circular routes RT11, RT12, RT13, and RT14. The circular route RT11 is a flight route for capturing an image of the two-dimensional code CD of a trailer TR parked in the parking area ARA. The circular route RT12 is a flight route for capturing an image of the two-dimensional code CD of a trailer TR parked in the parking area ARB. The circular route RT13 is a flight route for capturing an image of the two-dimensional code CD of a trailer TR parked in the parking area ARC. The circular route RT14 is a flight route for capturing an image of the two-dimensional code CD of a trailer TR parked in the parking area ARD.

[0161] In addition, each of the parking areas ARA to ARD in the fourth embodiment is assigned a two-dimensional code CDA1, CDA2, CDB1, CDB2, CDC1, CDC2, CDD1, CDD2 for detecting the parking areas ARA to ARD within the entire area FLD that includes all the parking areas.

[0162] For example, in the example shown in Figure 26, two-dimensional codes CDA1 and CDA2 are each assigned outside the parking area ARA to indicate the area of ​​the parking area ARA in the direction along which multiple trailers TR parked in the parking area ARA are lined up. Two-dimensional codes CDB1 and CDB2 are each assigned outside the parking area ARB to indicate the area of ​​the parking area ARB in the direction along which multiple trailers TR parked in the parking area ARB are lined up. Two-dimensional codes CDC1 and CDC2 are each assigned outside the parking area ARC to indicate the area of ​​the parking area ARC in the direction along which multiple trailers TR parked in the parking area ARC are lined up. Two-dimensional codes CDD1 and CDD2 are each assigned outside the parking area ARD to indicate the area of ​​the parking area ARD in the direction along which multiple trailers TR parked in the parking area ARD are lined up.

[0163] For example, when a two-dimensional code CDA1 is detected by the flying object DRN flying along the circular route RT11, the recognition server S1C can recognize that the flying object DRN will start capturing images of the parking area ARA. Upon detecting the two-dimensional code CDA1, the flying object DRN switches its operation mode from a movement mode in which it flies from a standby position (for example, outside the overall area FLD shown in FIG. 26) toward each parking area ARA to ARD to a reading mode in which it reads the two-dimensional code CD of the trailer TR parked in each parking area ARA to ARD.

[0164] Furthermore, for example, when the two-dimensional code CDA2 is detected by the flying object DRN flying along the circular route RT11, the recognition server S1C can recognize that the flying object DRN has finished capturing images of the parking area ARA. Upon detecting the two-dimensional code CDA2, the flying object DRN switches its operation mode from a reading mode in which it reads the two-dimensional code CD of the trailer TR parked in each parking area ARA to ARD to a movement mode in which it flies from each parking area ARA to ARD toward a waiting position (for example, outside the overall area FLD shown in FIG. 26).

[0165] The entire area FLD is an area that includes all of the parking areas ARA to ARD that are imaged by the flying vehicle DRN. In the fourth embodiment, the position of each of the parking areas ARA to ARD within the yard YRD3 is defined by its relative position (coordinates) with respect to the reference point Pt0C(X,Y)=(0,0) of the entire area FLD where each of the parking areas ARA to ARD within the yard YRD3 exists.

[0166] Next, the recognition server S1C in the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 27 to Fig. 30. Fig. 27 is a diagram showing an example of the system configuration of a trailer management system 100A in the fourth embodiment. Fig. 28 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the recognition server S1C in the fourth embodiment. Fig. 29 is a diagram showing an example of a parking ID management table TB15 in the fourth embodiment. Fig. 30 is a diagram showing an example of a reference position table TB16 in the fourth embodiment.

[0167] The recognition server S1C manages the status of trailers TR entering the yard YRD3 and the current positions of the trailers TR. The recognition server S1C includes a communication unit 10, a processor 11, and a memory 12C.

[0168] The memory 12C stores a camera management table TB11A, a trailer management table TB12A, a dock port position setting table TB14, a parking ID management table TB15, and a reference position table TB16.

[0169] The parking ID management table TB15 manages the coordinates of the parking positions in each parking area ARA-ARD relative to the reference point Pt0C of the entire area FLD within the yard YRD3, and the status of the parking positions included in each parking area ARA-ARD. The parking ID management table TB15 includes a parking ID, which is identification information for identifying each parking position, a reference X coordinate and a reference Y coordinate indicating each parking position relative to the reference point Pt0C, an area ID, which is identification information for the parking area corresponding to each parking position, a parking lot number, which is identification information for the parking position assigned to each parking position, and a parking status, which indicates the state of each parking position. The reference X coordinate and reference Y coordinate are coordinates in which one pixel of the frame image is used as one unit.

[0170] The parking position referred to here is an area in the parking area that is partitioned so that one trailer TR can be parked. Each parking position is assigned a "parking number" so that the parking position can be identified. The parking status indicates whether or not a trailer TR is parked at each parking position. The parking status is set to "parked," which indicates that a trailer TR is parked at the parking position, and "vacant," which indicates that a trailer TR is not parked at the parking position. Furthermore, if a two-dimensional code CD is assigned to each parking position, the reference X coordinate and reference Y coordinate may be the position of this two-dimensional code CD.

[0171] For example, in the parking ID management table TB15 shown in Figure 29, the parking position assigned the parking ID "a101" is located at coordinates (X,Y) = (120,50) relative to the reference point Pt0C, has parking lot number "101" belonging to parking area ARA (parking area "A"), and indicates that a trailer TR is not currently parked there (parking status is "vacant"). Also, the parking position assigned the parking ID "b201" is located at coordinates (X,Y) = (2100,50) relative to the reference point Pt0C, has parking lot number "201" belonging to parking area ARB (parking area "B"), and indicates that a trailer TR is currently parked there (parking status is "parked").

[0172] The reference position table TB16 manages the positions of the two-dimensional codes CDA1-CDD2 that indicate the ends of the parking areas ARA-ARD, respectively, relative to the reference point Pt0C of the entire area FLD. The reference position table TB16 includes a two-dimensional code ID, which is identification information for identifying each of the two-dimensional codes CDA1-CDD2, a reference X coordinate and a reference Y coordinate that indicate the position of each of the two-dimensional codes CDA1-CDD2 relative to the reference point Pt0C, and a name that indicates the role of each of the two-dimensional codes CDA1-CDD2.

[0173] For example, the parking position assigned the two-dimensional code ID "A1" in the reference position table TB16 shown in Figure 30 is located at coordinates (X,Y) = (0,0) relative to the reference point Pt0C, and the name "Area Entrance" indicates that it is the entrance to the parking area ARA (parking area "A").Furthermore, the parking position assigned the two-dimensional code ID "A2" is located at coordinates (X,Y) = (2000,0) relative to the reference point Pt0C, and the name "A Area Exit" indicates that it is the exit of the parking area ARA (parking area "A").

[0174] Next, a screen MN3 showing the state of the entire area FLD captured by the flying object DRN will be described with reference to Fig. 31. Fig. 31 is a diagram showing an example of a screen MN3 showing the state of the entire area FLD captured by the flying object DRN in embodiment 4. Note that the screen MN3 shown in Fig. 31 is an example and is not limited to this.

[0175] Based on the position of the two-dimensional code CD read by the flying object DRN, the recognition server S1C superimposes information indicating the presence of a trailer (for example, an icon or an icon with a trailer ID written on it) at the corresponding position on the map data of the yard YRD3, and generates a screen MN3 that visualizes the position of the trailer TR entering the yard YRD3. The screen MN3 is displayed on a monitor (not shown) connected to the recognition server S1C or the management server AS.

[0176] As a result, an administrator viewing screen MN3 shown in Figure 31 can see at a glance that there are 13 trailers parked in parking area ARA, 6 trailers parked in parking area ARB, and 1 trailer parked in dock DCD.

[0177] Furthermore, the recognition server S1C generates a screen MN3 on which the trailer ID information is superimposed on the trailers for which the trailer ID has been successfully acquired by reading the two-dimensional code CD. For example, the recognition server S1C generates a screen MN3 on which the trailer ID "342553" is superimposed on the trailer parked in parking lot number "102" out of the 13 trailers parked in the parking area ARA, and the trailer ID "4897392" is superimposed on the trailer parked in parking lot number "113". This allows the administrator to know the location information of the trailer TR within the yard YRD3 based on the trailer ID.

[0178] Next, an example of an operation procedure of the trailer management system 100A according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 32 and Fig. 33. Fig. 32 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation procedure of the trailer management system 100A according to the fourth embodiment. Fig. 33 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation procedure of the trailer management system 100A according to the fourth embodiment.

[0179] In the operational procedure examples shown in Figures 32 and 33, an example is described in which one flying object DRN patrols each of the parking areas ARA to ARD along the corresponding patrol routes RT11 to RT14, but there may be multiple flying objects DRN.

[0180] 32 and 33, an example will be described in which the processes of step St110D and step St515 to step St518 are performed by the flying object DRN, and the processes of step St511 to step St514 and step St519 to step St526 are performed by the recognition server S1C, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in the example of the operation procedure shown in FIGS. 32 and 33, all of the processes (step St110D and step St511 to step St526) may be performed by the flying object DRN. In addition, in the example of the operation procedure shown in FIGS. 32 and 33, the processes of step St111 to step St112 and step St515 to step St516 may be performed by the flying object DRN, and the other processes may be performed by the recognition server S1.

[0181] The flying object DRN reads various data from the two-dimensional code shown in the frame image (St114A). The various data read here includes at least one of the trailer ID of the trailer TR and the parking ID indicating the parking position.

[0182] Based on the two-dimensional code ID of the two-dimensional code, the recognition server S1C determines whether the read two-dimensional code is one of the two-dimensional codes CDA1 to CDD2 that is at the end of one of the parking areas ARA to ARD and indicates the reference position (entrance) of the parking area ARA to ARD (St511).

[0183] If the recognition server S1C determines in step St511 that the read two-dimensional code is not one of the two-dimensional codes CDA1 to CDD2 indicating the reference position (entrance) of the parking area ARA to ARD (St511, NO), it generates a control command instructing the aircraft DRN to move along the set patrol route, sends it to the aircraft DRN, and returns to step St111 in step St110D.

[0184] On the other hand, if the recognition server S1C determines in step St511 that the read two-dimensional code is one of two-dimensional codes CDA1 to CDD2 indicating the reference position (entrance) of the parking area ARA to ARD (St511, YES), it refers to the reference position table TB16 and obtains the reference X coordinate and reference Y coordinate corresponding to the two-dimensional code ID (St513).

[0185] The recognition server S1C generates a control command to instruct movement in a reading mode to read the two-dimensional code within the parking areas ARA to ARD, and transmits it to the flying object DRN (St514). After transmitting the control command, the recognition server S1C waits until it receives a frame image captured by the flying object DRN from the flying object DRN (St515). The recognition server S1C acquires the frame image transmitted from the flying object DRN (St516) and determines whether or not a two-dimensional code has been detected from the frame image (St517).

[0186] If the recognition server S1C determines in step St517 that a two-dimensional code has been detected from the frame image (St517, YES), it reads the detected two-dimensional code (St518).

[0187] On the other hand, if the recognition server S1C determines in step St517 that a two-dimensional code has not been detected from the frame image (St517, NO), the process returns to step St514.

[0188] The recognition server S1C determines whether the ID obtained by reading the two-dimensional code is a parking ID (St519).

[0189] In step St519, if the recognition server S1C determines that the read two-dimensional code is a two-dimensional code assigned to a parking location (for example, two-dimensional codes CDA13, CDA15, or CDA16 shown in FIG. 31) and that the ID obtained by reading the two-dimensional code is a parking ID (St519, YES), the recognition server S1C calculates the position (X and Y coordinates) of the detected two-dimensional code based on the position (coordinates) of the detected two-dimensional code relative to the position (X, Y) = (0, 0) of the reference point Pt0C in the entire area FLD (St520). Based on the calculated position of the two-dimensional code, the recognition server S1C identifies the parking lot number indicating the parking location corresponding to the parking ID, and sets (registers) the parking status of the parking location corresponding to this parking lot number to "vacant" in the parking ID management table TB15 (St521).

[0190] On the other hand, if the recognition server S1C determines in step St519 that the read two-dimensional code is a two-dimensional code assigned to the trailer TR (for example, two-dimensional code CD31 shown in Figure 31) and that the ID obtained by reading the two-dimensional code is not a parking ID (St519, NO), it further determines whether the ID obtained by reading the two-dimensional code is a two-dimensional code ID indicating the reference position (exit) of each parking area (St522).

[0191] In step St522, if the recognition server S1C determines that the read two-dimensional code is the two-dimensional code CDA1, CDA2 indicating the reference position (exit) of each parking area ARA and that the ID obtained by reading the two-dimensional code is the two-dimensional code ID indicating the end of each parking area (St522, YES), it notifies the management server AS of the current parking area status (St523). Note that the notification of the current parking area status may be realized by sending the parking ID management table TB15 to the management server AS.

[0192] On the other hand, if the recognition server S1C determines in step St522 that the read two-dimensional code is the two-dimensional code CD attached to the trailer TR and that the ID obtained by reading the two-dimensional code is not the two-dimensional code ID indicating the reference position (exit) of each parking area (St522, NO), it calculates the position (X coordinate and Y coordinate) of the detected two-dimensional code CD in the entire area FLD based on the distance between the two-dimensional code DCA1 attached to the reference position (entrance) of the parking area currently being imaged by the flying object DRN and the detected two-dimensional code CD (St524).

[0193] The recognition server S1C identifies the parking lot number from which the two-dimensional code CD was read based on the calculated position of the two-dimensional code CD and the reference X and Y coordinates corresponding to each parking lot number in the parking ID management table TB15 (St525). The recognition server S1C identifies the read two-dimensional code CD as a trailer ID. The recognition server S1C sets (registers) the parking status corresponding to the identified parking lot number in the parking ID management table TB15 to "parked" (St526). The recognition server S1C also sets (registers) the parking area of ​​the trailer TR having the same trailer ID to the parking area including the identified parking lot number in the trailer management table TB12A, and sets (registers) the date and time when the two-dimensional code CD was read by the flying object DRN (i.e., the date and time when the frame image was captured) as the parking date and time (St526). The recognition server S1C notifies the management server AS of the parking status of the trailer TR parked in the current parking area (St526).

[0194] As described above, the trailer management system 100A according to the fourth embodiment can manage the trailers TR parked in each parking position in each parking area ARA to ARD by using an air vehicle DRN equipped with a camera (not shown) instead of the fixedly installed cameras C1 to C5.

[0195] In each of the above embodiments 1 to 3, the trailer management system 100 has been described as an example in which the two-dimensional code CD of a trailer TR connected to each dock DCKA to DCKD or a trailer TR parked in each parking area ARA to ARD is captured by a fixedly installed camera capable of capturing images of each of these target areas (i.e., docks DCKA to DCKD or parking areas ARA to ARD).

[0196] However, the imaging of the two-dimensional code CD of a trailer TR connected to each dock DCKA to DCKD or a trailer TR parked in each parking area ARA to ARD may be performed by a camera other than the above-mentioned cameras C1 to C5, CD1 to CD4.

[0197] Here, an example of capturing an image of a two-dimensional code CD by another camera (camera C6) will be described with reference to Fig. 34. Fig. 34 is a diagram showing an example of capturing an image of a two-dimensional code CD by camera C6. Note that Fig. 34 shows, as an example, how a trailer connected to dock DCKA is captured by camera C6, but since the image of trailers parked in parking areas ARA to ARD is captured in the same way, a description thereof will be omitted.

[0198] In the example shown in Figure 34, camera C6 is installed at yard jockey YJ, who is driven by a yard driver. As yard jockey YJ moves, camera C6 captures and reads one of two-dimensional codes DCA1 and DCA2 installed at the entrance and exit of multiple dock ports owned by dock DCKA. From one of the two-dimensional codes that has been read, recognition servers S1B and S1C recognize that the dock currently being imaged by camera C6 is "Dock A."

[0199] Each of the two-dimensional codes DP1, DP2, DP3, DP4, DP5, DP6, DP7, DP8, and DP9 is a two-dimensional code that identifies each of the dock ports "101" to "109." Each of the two-dimensional codes DP1 to DP9 is located at a position that can be imaged by camera C6 together with the two-dimensional code CD attached to the trailer TR connected to the dock port, and may be provided corresponding to the position of each of the dock ports "101" to "109." For example, when attaching two-dimensional codes that identify the parking lot locations in a parking area, the two-dimensional codes may be attached within the white line frames of each parking lot, or may be attached to the back side of the parked trailer TR as shown in FIG. 34.

[0200] As yard jockey YJ moves, camera C6 captures images of each of dock ports "101" to "109" and each of two-dimensional codes DP1 to DP9 used to identify dock ports "101" to "109." Recognition servers S1B and S1C recognize whether a trailer TR is connected to each dock port and the trailer ID of the trailer TR connected to each dock port based on the positions of each of the two-dimensional codes DP1 to DP9 corresponding to the dock port positions and the position of the two-dimensional code CD assigned to the trailer TR. Specifically, in the example shown in FIG. 34, recognition servers S1B and S1C recognize that a trailer TR is connected to each of dock ports "101" to "104," and update various pieces of information registered in trailer management table TB12B and parking ID management table TB15.

[0201] This allows the recognition servers S1B and S1C to manage the trailers TR parked in the docks DCKA to DCKD or the parking areas ARA to ARD with higher accuracy.

[0202] (Addendum) The above description of each embodiment discloses the following techniques.

[0203] (Technology 1) an acquisition unit (communication unit 10) that acquires, from the cameras C0 to CN, DC1 to DC4, trailer identification information that identifies the trailer TR from a two-dimensional code that can identify the trailer TR, and camera identification information that identifies the cameras C0 to CN, DC1 to DC4 that read the two-dimensional code; a management unit (processor 11) for managing trailer management tables TB12, TB12A, and TB12B1 that store information about trailers TR entering yards YRD, YRD1, and YRD2; When the management unit (processor 11) determines based on the camera identification information that the trailer TR corresponding to the trailer identification information has entered the yard YRD, YRD1, YRD2, the management unit (processor 11) associates the trailer identification information with the entry time of the trailer TR and records the association in the trailer management tables TB12, TB12A, TB12B1. Trailer management device (recognition servers S1, S1A, S1B). This allows the trailer management device (recognition servers S1, S1A, S1B) to identify and manage trailers TR entering the yards YRD, YRD1, YRD2 by the trailer ID.

[0204] (Technology 2) When the management unit (processor 11) determines based on the camera identification information that the trailer TR corresponding to the trailer identification information has exited the yard YRD, YRD1, YRD2, the management unit (processor 11) associates the trailer identification information with the exit time of the trailer TR and records the association in the trailer management tables TB12, TB12A, TB12B1. The trailer management device (recognition servers S1, S1A, S1B) described in (Technology 1). This allows the trailer management device (recognition servers S1, S1A, S1B) to identify and manage trailers TR entering and leaving the yards YRD, YRD1, YRD2 by the trailer ID.

[0205] (Technology 3) The yard YRD has at least one parking area ARA to ARD in which the trailer TR is parked, When the management unit (processor 11) determines based on the camera identification information that the camera is a parking lot camera (C1 to C5) that captures images of the trailer TR passing through the entrance or exit of the parking area ARA to ARD, it identifies the passing area through which the trailer TR passed based on the camera identification information, and records the camera identification information of the parking lot camera (C1 to C5), the passing area information through which the trailer TR passed, and the image capturing time when the two-dimensional code was captured, and the passing date and time information when the trailer TR passed through the parking area ARA to ARD, in the trailer management tables TB12, TB12A, TB12B1, in association with the trailer identification information. The trailer management device (recognition servers S1A, S1B) according to (Technology 1) or (Technology 2). This allows the trailer management device (recognition servers S1A, S1B) to manage the approximate current location of the trailer TR based on the area (gate GT or parking area ARA to ARD) that the trailer TR has passed through while entering yards YRD1, YRD2.

[0206] (Technology 4) The trailer management tables TB12, TB12A, TB12B1 are capable of recording status information indicating whether the trailer TR is moving or whether the trailer TR is parked in one of the parking areas ARA to ARD in association with the trailer identification information, When the management unit (processor 11) acquires the trailer identification information from the cameras (C1 to C5), it sets the status of the trailer TR to "moving." The trailer management device (recognition servers S1A, S1B) according to any one of (Technique 1) to (Technique 3). This allows the trailer management device (recognition servers S1A, S1B) to manage the status (whether moving or parked) of the trailer TR entering the yards YRD1, YRD2.

[0207] (Technology 5) When the management unit (processor 11) determines that a predetermined time (e.g., 3 minutes or 10 minutes) has elapsed since the trailer identification information was acquired from the parking lot camera, the management unit sets the status of the trailer TR to "parked." The trailer management device (recognition servers S1A, S1B) described in (Technology 4). This allows the trailer management device (recognition servers S1A, S1B) to manage the status (whether moving or parked) of trailers TR entering yards YRD1, YRD2 without having to capture the entire parking area ARA to ARD with a camera.

[0208] (Technology 6) The management unit (processor 11) extracts the passing date and time information of the trailer TR whose status is "moving" from the trailer management tables TB12, TB12A, TB12B1, and sets the status of the trailer TR to "parked" if it determines that the passing date and time information of the extracted trailer TR is earlier than the current date and time by a predetermined time or more. The trailer management device (recognition servers S1A, S1B) described in (Technology 4). This allows the trailer management device (recognition servers S1A, S1B) to manage the status (whether moving or parked) of trailers TR entering yards YRD1, YRD2 without capturing images of the entire parking areas ARA to ARD with cameras, and asynchronously with the detection process of trailers TR by cameras C1 to C5.

[0209] (Technology 7) The acquisition unit (communication unit 10) acquires cargo information indicating whether the trailer TR has a cargo, The management unit (processor 11) generates a cargo status indicating the state of the cargo of the trailer TR based on the cargo information, and records the generated cargo status in the trailer management tables TB12, TB12A, TB12B1 in association with the trailer identification information. The trailer management device (recognition server S1B) according to any one of (Technique 1) to (Technique 6). This allows the trailer management device (recognition server S1B) to further manage the cargo status (whether or not there is a load) of the trailer TR entering the yard YRD2.

[0210] (Technology 8) The yard YRD has at least one dock DCKA to DCKD for unloading the cargo carried by the trailer TR or loading the cargo onto the trailer TR, When the management unit (processor 11) determines based on the camera identification information that the camera is a dock camera (camera DC1 to DC4) that captures the trailer TR parked in one of the docks DCKA to DCKD, it further determines based on the cargo status whether the trailer TR has the cargo, and when it determines that the trailer TR has the cargo, it changes the cargo status to "unloading," and when it determines that the trailer TR does not have the cargo, it changes the cargo status to "unloading." The trailer management device (recognition server S1B) described in (Technology 7). This allows the trailer management device (recognition server S1B) to manage the work being performed on trailers TR that have entered yard YRD2 and are parked at docks DCKA to DCKD (i.e., whether they are being unloaded or loaded).

[0211] (Technology 9) When the management unit (processor 11) determines, based on the trailer management table TB12B1 and the camera identification information, that a camera (C0 to CN) other than the dock camera (cameras DC1 to DC4) has captured an image of the trailer TR parked at the dock DCKA to DCKD, it further determines, based on the trailer TR load status, whether the trailer TR is loaded, and, if it determines that the trailer TR is loaded, it changes the load status of the trailer TR to loaded, and, if it determines that the trailer TR is not loaded, it changes the load status of the trailer TR to unloaded. The trailer management device (recognition server S1B) described in (Technology 8). This allows the trailer management device (recognition server S1B) to manage the latest cargo status of the trailer TR entering the yard YRD2.

[0212] (Technology 10) When the management unit (processor 11) determines based on the camera identification information that the camera is the dock camera (cameras DC1 to DC4), it identifies the dock DCKA to DCKD at which the trailer TR is parked based on the camera identification information, and records information on the identified dock DCKA to DCKD and dock date and time information at which the trailer TR was parked at the dock DCKA to DCKD, which is the image capturing time at which the two-dimensional code was captured, in the trailer management tables TB12, TB12A, TB12B1 in association with the trailer identification information. The trailer management device (recognition server S1B) described in (Technology 8). This allows the trailer management device (recognition server S1B) to manage whether or not a trailer TR entering the yard YRD2 is parked at a dock DCKA to DCKD.

[0213] (Technology 11) the dock has at least one dock port where the trailer TR stops; The acquiring unit (communication unit 10) further acquires position information of the captured two-dimensional code, When the management unit (processor 11) determines based on the camera identification information that the camera is the dock camera (cameras DC1 to DC4), it identifies the dock port in the dock where the trailer TR is parked based on the position information of the two-dimensional code, and records the information of the dock port in the trailer management table TB12B1 in association with the trailer identification information. The trailer management device (recognition server S1B) described in (Technology 10). This allows the trailer management device (recognition server S1B) to manage the position of the dock port where the trailer TR that has entered the yard YRD2 and is parked at any of the docks DCKA to DCKD is parked.

[0214] (Technology 12) The acquisition unit (communication unit 10) acquires information on a dock port where the trailer TR should stop, which corresponds to the trailer identification information, If the management unit (processor 11) determines that the acquired dock port information does not match the identified dock port, it generates and outputs a notification that the dock port where the trailer TR is parked is incorrect. The trailer management device (recognition server S1B) described in (Technology 11). This allows the trailer management device (recognition server S1B) to determine whether the dock port where the trailer TR is parked is correct or not, and to notify the user in real time whether the trailer TR is parked at the wrong dock port (dock slot). Therefore, the recognition server S1C can more effectively prevent loading of the wrong cargo and unloading at the wrong location (dock or dock port).

[0215] (Technology 13) The camera C6 is attached to a yard jockey YJ moving within the yards YRD2 and YRD3. The trailer management device (recognition servers S1B, S1C) described in (Technology 1). This allows the recognition servers S1B and S1C to manage with higher accuracy the trailers TR parked in the docks DCKA to DCKD or the parking areas ARA to ARD using the camera C6.

[0216] (Technology 14) The yards YRD2 and YRD3 each have at least one parking area ARA to ARD in which the trailer TR is parked, The acquisition unit (communication unit 10) further acquires parking area identification information that identifies the parking areas ARA to ARD from the two-dimensional codes that can identify the parking areas ARA to ARD, The management unit (processor 11) identifies the parking area in which the trailer TR is parked based on the trailer identification information and the parking area identification information, and records the information on the identified parking area and parking date and time information, which is the image capture time of the two-dimensional code and is the time when the trailer TR was parked in the parking area, in the trailer management tables TB12B1 and TB12B2, in association with the trailer identification information. The trailer management device (recognition servers S1B, S1C) described in (Technology 13). This allows the recognition servers S1B and S1C to manage the trailers TR parked in the parking areas ARA to ARD with higher accuracy based on the information read by the camera C6.

[0217] (Technology 15) The parking areas ARA to ARD each have at least one parking lot where the trailer TR is parked, The acquisition unit (communication unit 10) further acquires parking lot identification information that identifies the parking lot from the two-dimensional code that can identify the parking lot, The management unit (processor 11) identifies the parking lot in the parking area where the trailer TR is parked based on the parking lot identification information, and sets the parking status indicating the parking status of the trailer in the parking lot to "parked" in a parking ID management table TB15 that manages whether the trailer TR is parked. The trailer management device (recognition server S1C) described in (Technology 14). This allows the recognition server S1C to manage the trailers TR parked in each parking location of the parking areas ARA to ARD based on the information read by the camera C6.

[0218] (Technology 16) The yards YRD2 and YRD3 each have at least one dock DCKA to DCKD for unloading cargo carried by the trailer TR or loading the cargo onto the trailer TR, The acquisition unit (communication unit 10) further acquires dock identification information for identifying the dock DCKA to DCKD from the two-dimensional code that can identify the dock DCKA to DCKD, The management unit (processor 11) identifies the dock where the trailer TR is parked based on the trailer identification information and the dock identification information, and records the information on the identified dock and dock date and time information, which is the image capture time of the two-dimensional code and is the time when the trailer TR was parked at the dock, in the trailer management tables TB12B1 and TB12B2 in association with the trailer identification information. The trailer management device (recognition servers S1B, S1C) described in (Technology 13). This allows the recognition servers S1B and S1C to manage the trailers TR parked at the docks DCKA to DCKD with higher accuracy based on the information read by the camera C6.

[0219] (Technology 17) The docks DCKA to DCKD each have at least one dock port where the trailer TR stops, the acquiring unit (communication unit 10) further acquires dock port identification information that identifies the dock port from the two-dimensional code that can identify the dock port; The management unit (processor 11) identifies the dock port in the dock where the trailer TR is parked based on the dock port identification information, and records the dock port information in the trailer management tables TB12B1 and TB12B2 in association with the trailer identification information. The trailer management device (recognition servers S1B, S1C) described in (Technology 16). This allows the recognition servers S1B and S1C to manage the trailers TR parked at each of the dock ports of the docks DCKA to DCKD based on the information read by the camera C6.

[0220] (Technology 18) The camera is attached to an air vehicle DRN that can fly over the yard YRD, The trailer management device (recognition server S1C) described in (Technology 1). This allows the trailer management device (recognition server S1C) to reduce the number of cameras installed in the yard YRD3 and improve the degree of freedom in imaging by the cameras compared to when each camera C1 to C5, DC1 to DC4 is installed in a fixed position.

[0221] (Technology 19) The acquiring unit (communication unit 10) further acquires position information of the captured two-dimensional code CD, The management unit (processor 11) identifies the position of the trailer TR in the yard YRD3 based on the position information of the two-dimensional code CD, and generates and outputs a screen MN3 in which the trailer is superimposed on map data of the yard YRD3 based on the identified position of the trailer TR. The trailer management device (recognition server S1C) described in (Technology 18). As a result, the trailer management device (recognition server S1C) can support the management of trailers TR entering the yard YRD3 by generating a screen MN3 that visualizes the position of the trailer TR within the yard YRD3.

[0222] (Technology 20) A trailer management method performed by a device (recognition server S1, S1A, S1B) that manages trailers TR entering yards YRD, YRD1, and YRD2, comprising: Acquire, from the camera, trailer identification information for identifying the trailer TR from the two-dimensional code that can identify the trailer TR and camera identification information for identifying the camera that read the two-dimensional code; When it is determined based on the camera identification information that the trailer TR corresponding to the trailer identification information has entered the yards YRD, YRD1, YRD2, the trailer identification information is associated with the entry time of the trailer TR and recorded in trailer management tables TB12, TB12A, TB12B1 that store information about the trailer TR that has entered the yards YRD, YRD1, YRD2. Trailer management methods. This allows the trailer management device (recognition servers S1, S1A, S1B) to identify and manage trailers TR entering the yards YRD, YRD1, YRD2, YRD3 by the trailer ID.

[0223] Although various embodiments have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present disclosure is not limited to such examples. It is clear that those skilled in the art can conceive of various modifications, alterations, substitutions, additions, deletions, and equivalents within the scope of the claims, and it is understood that these also fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the components of the various embodiments described above may be combined in any manner without departing from the spirit of the invention. [Industrial Applicability]

[0224] The present disclosure is useful as a trailer management device and a trailer management method for more efficiently managing trailers in a yard. [Explanation of symbols]

[0225] 10,20 Communications Department 11,21 processor 12, 12A, 12B, 12C memory 20 Communications Department 21 processors 22 Memory 100,100A Trailer Management System ARA, ARB, ARC, ARD parking areas AS Management Server C0, C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, CN, DC1, DC2, DC3, DC4 Camera CD, CD31, CDA1, CDA2, CDB1, CDB2, CDC1, CDC2, CDD1, CDD2, CDA13, CDA15, CDA16 2D code DCKA, DCKB, DCKC, DCKD Dock DRN Aircraft FLD entire area GT Gate Pt0,Pt0C Reference point S1, S1A, S1B, S1C recognition server TB11 Camera Management Table TB11A Camera Management Table TB12,TB12A,TB12B1,TB12B2 Trailer management table TB13 State Transition Table TB14 Dock Port Positioning Table TB15 Parking ID Management Table TB16 Reference position table TR Trailer WH warehouse YRD,YRD1,YRD2,YRD3 yards

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires, from the camera, trailer identification information that identifies the trailer from a two-dimensional code that can identify the trailer, and camera identification information that identifies the camera that read the two-dimensional code; a management unit that manages a trailer management table that stores information about trailers that have entered the yard, When the management unit determines, based on the camera identification information, that the trailer corresponding to the trailer identification information has entered the yard, the management unit associates the trailer identification information with the entry time of the trailer and records the association information in the trailer management table. Trailer management device.

2. When the management unit determines based on the camera identification information that the trailer corresponding to the trailer identification information has exited the yard, the management unit records the trailer identification information and the exit time of the trailer in association with each other in the trailer management table. The trailer management device according to claim 1 .

3. the yard has at least one parking area in which the trailer is parked; When the management unit determines based on the camera identification information that the camera is a parking lot camera that captures images of the trailer passing through the entrance or exit of the parking area, the management unit identifies the passing area through which the trailer passed based on the camera identification information, and records the camera identification information of the parking lot camera and the passing area information through which the trailer passed in the trailer management table in association with the trailer identification information. The trailer management device according to claim 1 .

4. the trailer management table is capable of recording status information indicating whether the trailer is moving or whether the trailer is parked in the parking area in association with the trailer identification information, when the management unit acquires the trailer identification information from the camera, the management unit sets the status of the trailer to "moving"; The trailer management device according to claim 3 .

5. When the management unit determines that a predetermined time has elapsed since the trailer identification information was acquired from the parking lot camera, it sets the status of the trailer to "parked" and records in the trailer management table the image capture time of the two-dimensional code, which is the date and time when the trailer passed through the parking area, in association with the trailer identification information.

5. The trailer management device according to claim 4.

6. the management unit extracts, from the trailer management table, passage date and time information of a trailer whose status is "moving," and when it determines that the extracted passage date and time information of the trailer is a predetermined time or more in the past than the current date and time, sets the status of the trailer to "parked." 5. The trailer management device according to claim 4.

7. the acquisition unit acquires cargo information indicating whether the trailer has cargo, the management unit generates a cargo status indicating the state of the cargo on the trailer based on the cargo information, and records the generated cargo status in the trailer management table in association with the trailer identification information. The trailer management device according to claim 1 .

8. the yard has at least one dock for unloading cargo carried by the trailer or loading the cargo onto the trailer; When the management unit determines based on the camera identification information that the camera is a dock camera that captures images of the trailer parked at the dock, it further determines based on the cargo status whether the trailer has the cargo, and when it determines that the trailer has the cargo, it changes the cargo status to "unloading," and when it determines that the trailer does not have the cargo, it changes the cargo status to "loading." The trailer management device according to claim 7.

9. When the management unit determines, based on the trailer management table and the camera identification information, that a camera other than the dock camera has captured an image of the trailer parked at the dock, it further determines whether the trailer is loaded or not based on the trailer's cargo status, and when it determines that the trailer is loaded, it changes the trailer's cargo status to loaded, and when it determines that the trailer is not loaded, it changes the trailer's cargo status to unloaded.

9. The trailer management device according to claim 8.

10. When the management unit determines that the camera is the dock camera based on the camera identification information, it identifies the dock where the trailer is parked based on the camera identification information, and records information about the identified dock and dock date and time information, which is the image capturing time when the two-dimensional code was captured and when the trailer was parked at the dock, in the trailer management table in association with the trailer identification information.

9. The trailer management device according to claim 8.

11. the dock has at least one dock port where the trailer is parked; The acquisition unit further acquires position information of the captured two-dimensional code, When the management unit determines that the camera is the dock camera based on the camera identification information, it identifies the dock port in the dock where the trailer is parked based on the position information of the two-dimensional code, and records the information of the dock port in the trailer management table in association with the trailer identification information. The trailer management device of claim 10.

12. the acquisition unit acquires information about a dock port where the trailer should stop, corresponding to the trailer identification information; When the management unit determines that the acquired dock port information does not match the identified dock port, the management unit generates and outputs a notification that the dock port where the trailer is parked is incorrect. The trailer management device of claim 11.

13. The camera is attached to a yard jockey who moves within the yard. The trailer management device according to claim 1 .

14. the yard has at least one parking area in which the trailer is parked; The acquisition unit further acquires parking area identification information that identifies the parking area from a two-dimensional code that can identify the parking area, the management unit identifies the parking area in which the trailer is parked based on the trailer identification information and the parking area identification information, and records information on the identified parking area and parking date and time information, which is the image capture time of the two-dimensional code and is the time when the trailer was parked in the parking area, in the trailer management table in association with the trailer identification information.

14. The trailer management device of claim 13.

15. the parking area has at least one parking space in which the trailer is parked; The acquisition unit further acquires parking lot identification information that identifies the parking lot from a two-dimensional code that can identify the parking lot, the management unit identifies the parking lot in the parking area where the trailer is parked based on the parking lot identification information, and sets the parking status indicating the parking status of the trailer in the parking lot to "parked" in a parking management table that manages whether the trailer is parked.

15. The trailer management system of claim 14.

16. the yard has at least one dock for unloading cargo carried by the trailer or loading the cargo onto the trailer; the acquisition unit further acquires dock identification information for identifying the dock from a two-dimensional code capable of identifying the dock; The management unit identifies the dock at which the trailer is parked based on the trailer identification information and the dock identification information, and records the identified dock information and dock date and time information, which is the image capturing time of the two-dimensional code and is the time when the trailer is parked at the dock, in the trailer management table in association with the trailer identification information.

14. The trailer management device of claim 13.

17. the dock has at least one dock port where the trailer is parked; the acquisition unit further acquires dock port identification information that identifies the dock port from a two-dimensional code that can identify the dock port; the management unit identifies a dock port in the dock where the trailer is parked based on the dock port identification information, and records the dock port information in the trailer management table in association with the trailer identification information; 17. The trailer management system of claim 16.

18. The camera is attached to an aircraft capable of flying over the yard. The trailer management device according to claim 1 .

19. The acquisition unit further acquires position information of the captured two-dimensional code, the management unit identifies the position of the trailer in the yard based on the position information of the two-dimensional code, and generates and outputs a screen in which the trailer is superimposed on map data of the yard based on the identified position of the trailer.

20. The trailer management system of claim 18.

20. A trailer management method performed by a device that manages trailers entering a yard, comprising: acquiring, from the camera, trailer identification information for identifying the trailer from the two-dimensional code capable of identifying the trailer, and camera identification information for identifying the camera that read the two-dimensional code; When it is determined based on the camera identification information that the trailer corresponding to the trailer identification information has entered the yard, the trailer identification information is associated with the entry time of the trailer and recorded in a trailer management table that stores information about trailers that have entered the yard. Trailer management methods.

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