Inventory management program, inventory management device, and inventory management method

Abstract

To provide an inventory management program, an inventory management device, and an inventory management method for suppressing an increase in time for searching for a commodity of interest from among commodities in a yard.SOLUTION: An inventory management device 40 executing an inventory management program and performing an inventory management method, outputs information related to a commodity associated with a yard code due to the fact that a yard code created by a wholesale dealer 20, equivalent to a pickup operator, and added to a document attached to the commodity is read by the wholesale dealer 20. The inventory management device 40 also outputs information related to a commodity associated with a shipment code due to the fact that a shipment code which is created by a shipper 10, equivalent to a pickup operator, and attached to the document added to the commodity, and which is a code associated with information related to the yard of the commodity inputted by the wholesaler dealer 20, is read by either the wholesale dealer 20 or an intermediate wholesale dealer 25, equivalent to a recipient.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an inventory management program, an inventory management device, and an inventory management method. [Background technology]

[0002] As described in Patent Document 1, a warehouse management system has been known that includes a terminal and a host in a warehouse where products are stored. The terminal reads location codes displayed at the product storage locations and product codes attached to the products, and inputs product information including the product quantity. The host generates management data that associates product codes with location codes based on the product information received from the terminal, and manages the inventory of products. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-35830 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The location of a product can be determined from the location code of the warehouse management system described in Patent Document 1. However, even if the location is known, the product that is the target of physical inspection or pickup must be found among the products stored in that location. Finding the target product among the products stored in that location is difficult and takes a lot of time because there is a large amount of product.

[0005] The present disclosure aims to provide an inventory management program, an inventory management device, and an inventory management method that prevent an increase in the time required to search for a target product among products in a storage area. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The invention described in claim 1 is an inventory management program that causes an inventory management device to function as a storage location code generation unit that generates a storage location code, which is a code related to a storage location of a product, from information about the product storage location input by a collection company (20, 25) that collects products from a delivery company (10, 20) that delivers the products; a storage location code output unit that outputs the storage location code; and a product information output unit that outputs information about the product related to the storage location code by reading, by the collection company, the storage location code that is attached to a document created by the collection company and attached to the product.

[0007] The invention described in claim 14 is an inventory management device that includes a storage location code generation unit that generates a storage location code, which is a code related to a storage location of a product, from information related to the storage location of the product input by a collection company (20, 25) that collects products from a delivery company (10, 20) that delivers the products; a storage location code output unit that outputs the storage location code; and a product information output unit that outputs information related to the product related to the storage location code by reading, by the collection company, the storage location code that is attached to a document created by the collection company and attached to the product.

[0008] Furthermore, the invention described in claim 15 is an inventory management method including: generating a storage location code, which is a code relating to a storage location of a product, from information relating to the storage location of the product input by a collection company (20, 25) that is a company that collects products from a delivery company (10, 20) that is a company that delivers the products; outputting the storage location code; and outputting information relating to the product related to the storage location code by having the collection company read the storage location code attached to a document created by the collection company and attached to the product.

[0009] This allows the user to identify the product by the storage location code attached to the document prepared by the collection company and the information about the product related to the storage location code output from the inventory management device, thereby reducing the time required to search for the target product among the products stored in the storage location.

[0010] The invention described in claim 11 is an inventory management program that causes an inventory management device to function as an association unit that acquires and associates information about products entered by a delivery company (10, 20) that is a company that delivers products and information about a product storage location entered by a collection company (20, 25) that is a company that collects products from the delivery company, and an item information output unit that outputs information about products related to the shipping code when the shipping code, which is a code created by the delivery company and attached to a document that is related to the information about the product entered by the delivery company and the information about the product storage location entered by the collection company, is read by either the collection company or the delivery destination (25, 30) that is a company that collects products from the collection company.

[0011] Furthermore, the invention described in claim 16 is an inventory management device comprising: an association unit that acquires and associates information about products entered by a delivery company (10, 20) that is a company that delivers products and information about a product storage location entered by a collection company (20, 25) that is a company that collects products from the delivery company; and an item information output unit that outputs information about products related to the shipping code when the shipping code, which is a code created by the delivery company and attached to a document that is related to the information about the product entered by the delivery company and the information about the product storage location entered by the collection company, is read by either the collection company or the delivery destination (25, 30) that is a company that collects products from the collection company.

[0012] The invention described in claim 17 is an inventory management method including: acquiring and associating information about products entered by a delivery company (10, 20) that delivers products and information about a product storage location entered by a collection company (20, 25) that collects products from the delivery company; and outputting information about the products related to the shipping code by reading, by either the collection company or the delivery destination (25, 30) that collects products from the collection company, a shipping code that is a code created by the delivery company and attached to a document that is associated with the information about the products entered by the delivery company and the information about the product storage location entered by the collection company.

[0013] This allows the user to identify the product by the shipping code attached to the document prepared by the delivery agent and the product-related information output from the inventory management device, thereby reducing the time required to search for the target product among the products stored in the storage area.

[0014] The reference symbols in parentheses attached to each component indicate an example of the correspondence between the component and the specific components described in the embodiments described below. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a value chain in which an inventory management device according to a first embodiment is used. [Figure 2] 10 is a flowchart showing the processing of the inventory management device, the work of the shipper, the work of the wholesaler, and the work of the intermediate wholesaler. [Figure 3] A diagram showing the shipping label. [Figure 4] A table showing wholesaler shipment information. [Figure 5] A table showing wholesaler distribution and storage information. [Figure 6] 10 is a table showing location information when a location code is generated. [Figure 7] A diagram showing a wholesaler's shipping instruction. [Figure 8] 10 is a table showing location information when a location code is read. [Figure 9] Diagram showing wholesaler label. [Figure 10] A table showing distribution information and storage location information when the wholesaler is A. [Figure 11] 10 is a table showing distribution information and storage location information when the collection status is complete. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing the processing of the warehouse management system, the work of the shipper, the work of the wholesaler, and the work of the intermediate wholesaler when using the warehouse management system of the comparative example. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart showing the processing of the inventory management device of the second embodiment, the work of the shipper, the work of the wholesaler, and the work of the intermediate wholesaler. [Figure 14] A table showing the shipping origin information. [Figure 15] A table showing the shipping information when the shipping origin is a. [Figure 16] A diagram showing the shipping label. [Figure 17] A table showing cargo distribution information, storage location information, and waybill information. [Figure 18] 10 is a flowchart showing the processing of the inventory management device, the work of the shipper, the work of the wholesaler, and the work of the intermediate wholesaler in the third embodiment. [Figure 19] A table showing distribution information and storage location information when the remaining cargo confirmation status is completed. [Figure 20] 10 is a table showing distribution information and storage location information when the collection status is complete. [Figure 21] 10 is a table showing distribution information and storage location information when the wholesaler is α. [Figure 22] 10 is a flowchart showing the processing of the inventory management device, the work of the shipper, the work of the wholesaler, and the work of the intermediate wholesaler in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 23] 13 is a flowchart showing the processing of the inventory management device, the work of the shipper, the work of the wholesaler, and the work of the intermediate wholesaler in the fifth embodiment. [Figure 24] 13 is a flowchart showing the processing of the inventory management device, the work of the shipper, the work of the wholesaler, and the work of the intermediate wholesaler in the sixth embodiment. [Figure 25] 13 is a flowchart showing the processing of the inventory management device, the work of the shipper, the work of the wholesaler, and the work of the intermediate wholesaler in the seventh embodiment. [Figure 26] 13 is a flowchart showing the processing of the inventory management device, the work of the shipper, the work of the wholesaler, and the work of the intermediate wholesaler in the eighth embodiment. [Figure 27] 13 is a flowchart showing the processing of the inventory management device, the work of the shipper, the work of the wholesaler, and the work of the intermediate wholesaler in the ninth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, identical or equivalent parts will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0017] (First embodiment) The inventory management device that executes the inventory management program and the inventory management method of this embodiment reduces the time required to search for a target product among products in a storage area. This inventory management device is used, for example, in a value chain that uses fruits and vegetables as products. First, this value chain will be described.

[0018] As shown in Figure 1, the value chain 5 includes a shipper 10, a wholesaler 20, a middleman 25, a retailer 30, and a consumer 35. Here, the shipper 10, wholesaler 20, middleman 25, and retailer 30 are individuals or companies that conduct business activities.

[0019] The shipper 10 is, for example, an agricultural cooperative, and collects products produced by producers. The shipper 10 then delivers the collected products to a wholesaler 20.

[0020] The wholesaler 20 is a business that conducts sales activities and is positioned between the shipper 10 and the retailer 30 described below, and receives merchandise from the shipper 10. Furthermore, the wholesaler 20 delivers the merchandise received from the shipper 10 to an intermediate wholesaler 25.

[0021] The intermediate wholesaler 25 acts as an intermediary between the wholesaler 20 and the retailer 30 (described later), and receives merchandise from the wholesaler 20. The intermediate wholesaler 25 also delivers the merchandise received from the wholesaler 20 to the retailer 30.

[0022] The retailer 30 receives the merchandise from the intermediate wholesaler 25. Furthermore, the retailer 30 sells the merchandise received from the intermediate wholesaler 25 to consumers 35.

[0023] The value chain 5 is configured as described above. Next, the configuration of the inventory management device 40 used in this value chain 5 will be described.

[0024] The inventory management device 40 is mainly composed of a microcomputer and is equipped with a CPU, ROM, flash memory, RAM, I / O, display, and bus lines connecting these components. The inventory management device 40 also executes programs stored in the ROM of the inventory management device 40. This allows the inventory management device 40 to manage inventory between the shipper 10 and the wholesaler 20. The inventory management device 40 also manages inventory between the wholesaler 20 and the intermediate wholesaler 25. The inventory management device 40 also manages inventory between the intermediate wholesaler 25 and the retailer 30.

[0025] As described above, inventory management device 40 is configured. Next, the inventory management process by inventory management device 40 will be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 2, using inventory management of shipper 10, wholesaler 20, and intermediate wholesaler 25 as an example.

[0026] In step S100, the worker at the shipper 10 sends an invoice to the wholesaler 20 by fax or the like. As shown in FIG. 3, the invoice contains the invoice number, shipping destination, shipper 10, item, product name, class, and quantity. In this case, the shipping destination is the wholesaler 20. Note that FAX is an abbreviation for facsimile.

[0027] After step S100, in step S300 of FIG. 2, the labeling person in charge of the wholesaler 20 receives the invoice from the shipper 10. The labeling person in charge of the wholesaler 20 generates shipment information based on the information on the received invoice. The labeling person in charge of the wholesaler 20 then inputs the generated shipment information into the inventory management device 40. The labeling person in charge of the labels is the person in charge of the labels, which will be described later.

[0028] As shown in Figure 4, the distribution information includes the waybill number, the sender 10, the item, name, class, and quantity of the product from the sender 10, the receiving company corresponding to the shipping destination, the delivery destination, the delivery amount, and the delivery status. The delivery destination is the company that receives the product from the receiving company corresponding to the shipping destination, and in this case corresponds to the wholesaler 25. The delivery amount is the amount of product delivered to the delivery destination from the receiving company corresponding to the shipping destination. The delivery status indicates whether or not the delivery of the product by the delivery destination has been completed.

[0029] After step S300, in step S500 of FIG. 2, inventory management device 40 registers the distribution information input in step S300.

[0030] In step S102 following step S100, the worker at the shipper 10 ships the product to the wholesaler 20.

[0031] After step S102, in step S200, the products shipped from the shipper 10 arrive at the wholesaler 20. The person in charge of unloading at the wholesaler 20 unloads the received products.

[0032] In step S202 following step S200, the person in charge of unloading at the wholesaler 20 places the products unloaded in step S200 in a storage area such as a warehouse.

[0033] In step S204 following step S202, the unloading person at the wholesaler 20 inputs the storage location number and shipping status of the placed product as storage location information into the inventory management device 40, as shown in FIG. 5. The shipping status refers to whether the product is being shipped from the shipper 10, whether it has arrived at the market, and whether the label described below has been attached. Here, whether it has arrived at the market corresponds to whether the product shipped from the shipper 10 has arrived at the destination. The storage location information is input manually by the unloading person at the wholesaler 20. Alternatively, the storage location information is input by the unloading person at the wholesaler 20 reading a one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code that includes information such as the storage location number and is assigned to the storage location itself.

[0034] After step S204, in step S502 of Fig. 2, the inventory management device 40 registers the storage location information input in step S204. Furthermore, the inventory management device 40 generates a storage location code for the registered storage location information, as shown in Fig. 6. The storage location code is a code related to the storage location of the product.

[0035] Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 2, in step S504 following step S502, the inventory management device 40 converts the storage location code generated in step S502 into a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code and outputs the code, and also outputs the distribution information.

[0036] After step S504, in step S206, the unloading person at the wholesaler 20 prints out the one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code storage location code and distribution information output in step S504. As a result, the unloading person at the wholesaler 20 creates a distribution instruction sheet as shown in FIG. 7. The unloading person at the wholesaler 20 also attaches the created distribution instruction sheet to the products placed in the storage location. The distribution instruction sheet is a document created by the wholesaler 20, and is used in the work of the labeling person at the wholesaler 20, which will be described later. Furthermore, the distribution instruction sheet contains the wholesaler 20, the item, the product name, the delivery destination, the class, and the delivery quantity, and is also assigned a one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code storage location code.

[0037] After step S206, in step S302, the labeling clerk of the wholesaler 20 searches for the product to be labeled by inputting information about the product to be labeled into the inventory management device 40 in order to affix the label (described below) to the product. This allows the labeling clerk of the wholesaler 20 to identify the location where the product to be labeled is to be placed. The labeling clerk of the wholesaler 20 then heads to the identified location.

[0038] In step S304 following step S302, the labeling person at the wholesaler 20 uses a barcode reader or a two-dimensional code reader to read the one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code of the storage location code on the distribution instruction sheet affixed in step S206.

[0039] As a result, in step S506, the inventory management device 40 outputs the distribution information related to the read storage location code as information about the product. Furthermore, at this time, the inventory management device 40 updates the shipping status from market arrival to label attachment, as shown in Figure 8.

[0040] Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 2, after step S506, in step S306, the label clerk at wholesaler 20 prints the information about the product output in step S506. As a result, the label clerk at wholesaler 20 creates a label as shown in FIG. 9. The label includes information about the delivery company, the place of production of the product, the item, grade, and quantity, as well as the delivery destination. The label also has a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code that includes this information. In this case, the delivery company listed on the label corresponds to wholesaler 20. In this case, the delivery destination listed on the label corresponds to intermediate wholesaler 25.

[0041] Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 2, in step S308 following step S306, the labeling person at the wholesaler 20 affixes the label created in step S306 to the product to which the corresponding shipping instruction has been affixed. The labeling person at the wholesaler 20 then removes the shipping instruction from the product. The shipping instruction and label are then replaced. An employee at the intermediate wholesaler 25 then comes to pick up the product.

[0042] Then, in step S400, the worker at the intermediate wholesaler 25 inputs information about the products to be collected from the wholesaler 20 into the inventory management device 40. As a result, the worker at the intermediate wholesaler 25 searches for information about the products to be collected from the wholesaler 20.

[0043] After step S400, in step S508, the inventory management device 40 outputs the storage location number of the product to be picked up by the intermediate wholesaler 25 and information about the product, in accordance with the information input in step S400. The inventory management device 40 also displays this output information on a screen. At this time, even if an operator at the intermediate wholesaler 25 searches for information about another intermediate wholesaler 25, the inventory management device 40 does not output the information about the other intermediate wholesaler 25 or display the information about the other intermediate wholesaler 25 on the screen. As a result, for example, if the intermediate wholesaler 25 is A, only information about A is displayed on the screen, as shown in Figure 10. This protects the confidential information of each trader.

[0044] Returning to the flowchart in Figure 2, in step S402 following step S400, the worker of the intermediate wholesaler 25 heads to the storage area for the products to be collected from the wholesaler 20 based on the information output from the inventory management device 40 in step S508. The worker of the intermediate wholesaler 25 then collects the products from the storage area.

[0045] In step S404 following step S402, an operator at the intermediate wholesaler 25 uses a barcode reader or a two-dimensional code reader to read the code on the label attached to the product to be collected, that is, the code on the label attached in step S308.

[0046] As a result, in step S510, the inventory management device 40 updates the pickup status.

[0047] For example, as shown in Figure 11, when the code on the label attached to the product with the storage location number AA-23 is read, the collection status is updated from "incomplete" to "completed." On the other hand, when the code on the label attached to the product is not read, the collection status remains "incomplete." These updated collection statuses are then shared by both the wholesaler 20 and the intermediate wholesaler 25. This saves the wholesaler 20 the trouble of checking inventory for products collected by the intermediate wholesaler 25.

[0048] Then, the operations of the shipper 10, the wholesaler 20, the intermediate wholesaler 25, and the processing of the inventory management device 40 are repeated.

[0049] As described above, inventory management device 40 manages inventory for shipper 10, wholesaler 20, and intermediate wholesaler 25. Next, it will be explained how inventory management device 40 reduces the time required to search for a target product among products in a storage area.

[0050] In value chain 5, when a warehouse management system such as that described in Patent Document 1 is used as a warehouse management system for comparison, the storage location of a product can be determined from the location code of the warehouse management system, as shown in FIG. 12. However, even if the storage location is determined, the product that is the target of physical inspection, pickup, etc. must be found from among the products stored in that storage location. Finding the target product from among the products stored in that storage location is difficult and takes a lot of time because there is a large amount of product.

[0051] In contrast, the inventory management device 40 of the first embodiment functions as a storage location code generation unit that generates a storage location code from information about a product storage location entered by a wholesaler 20, which is a company that collects products from a shipper 10. The shipper 10 corresponds to a delivery company that delivers products. The wholesaler 20 corresponds to a collection company that collects products from a delivery company.

[0052] The inventory management device 40 also functions as a storage location code output unit that outputs a storage location code. Furthermore, the inventory management device 40 also functions as a product information output unit that outputs information about the product associated with the storage location code when the storage location code attached to the distribution instruction is read by the wholesaler 20. The distribution instruction corresponds to a document prepared by the collection company and attached to the product.

[0053] This allows the location code attached to the distribution instruction sheet and the information about the product associated with the location code output from the inventory management device 40 to serve as landmarks, thereby preventing an increase in the time required to search for the target product among the products stored in the location.

[0054] Furthermore, the inventory management device 40 of the first embodiment also provides the following effects.

[0055] [1-1] Here, as shown in Fig. 12, labels containing information about the products are sometimes attached to the products in the storage area to serve as a mark for intermediate wholesalers 25 who receive the products from wholesalers 20. However, since there are a large number of products, it is easy for the labels to be attached incorrectly.

[0056] Therefore, when the wholesaler 20 reads the storage location code attached to the distribution instruction, the inventory management device 40 of the first embodiment outputs information about the product, the wholesaler 20, and the intermediate wholesaler 25, which is included in the label attached to the product by the wholesaler 20. The intermediate wholesaler 25 corresponds to the delivery destination, which is the company that picks up the product from the pick-up company.

[0057] This makes it clear which products should be labeled, reducing the chance of mislabeling even when there are a large number of products in the storage area.

[0058] [1-2] In addition, in value chain 5, in order to perform inventory management for each trader using a warehouse management system such as that described in Patent Document 1 as a warehouse management system for comparison, each trader will have their own warehouse management system. In this case, as shown in FIG. 12, for example, an employee of wholesaler 20 inputs product inventory information, and the information about wholesaler 20's inventory is registered in the warehouse management system of wholesaler 20. In addition, an employee of intermediate wholesaler 25 inputs product inventory information, and the information about intermediate wholesaler 25's inventory is registered in the warehouse management system of intermediate wholesaler 25. As a result, each trader will input product inventory information into their own warehouse management system. This increases the workload for inventory management.

[0059] In contrast, the inventory management device 40 of the first embodiment serves as an update unit that updates the pickup status. Furthermore, the inventory management device 40 updates the pickup status when the intermediate wholesaler 25 reads the code attached to the label. Specifically, when the intermediate wholesaler 25 reads the code, the inventory management device 40 determines that the pickup status indicates that the intermediate wholesaler 25 has completed pickup of the product. Furthermore, when the code has not been read by the intermediate wholesaler 25, the inventory management device 40 determines that the intermediate wholesaler 25 has not yet completed pickup of the product. The inventory management device 40 then shares the updated pickup status with the wholesaler 20 and the intermediate wholesaler 25.

[0060] This saves the wholesaler 20 the trouble of checking the inventory of the products taken over by the intermediate wholesaler 25. This prevents an increase in the number of steps required for inventory management.

[0061] [1-3] Here, suppose that there are two intermediate wholesalers 25, A and B. The inventory management device 40 functions as a display unit that displays information about A and B. When the display by the inventory management device 40 is performed by A, information about A is displayed. At this time, information about B is not displayed. When the display by the inventory management device 40 is performed by B, information about B is displayed. At this time, information about A is not displayed. This protects the confidential information of each trader. Note that A corresponds to the first delivery destination. B corresponds to the second delivery destination.

[0062] (Second embodiment) The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the work of the shipper 10, the work of the person in charge of unloading at the wholesaler 20, and the processing of the inventory management device 40. Other than this, the second embodiment is the same as the first embodiment.

[0063] Specifically, as shown in the flowchart of Figure 13, instead of sending an invoice to the wholesaler 20, an operator at the shipper 10 inputs the invoice number, shipping destination, shipper 10, item, product name, class, and quantity into the inventory management device 40 as invoice information.

[0064] After step S100, in step S498, the inventory management device 40 registers the invoice information input in step S100. In addition, the inventory management device 40 generates a shipping code for the registered invoice information, as shown in Figure 14. The shipping code is a code related to information about the product input by the shipper 10.

[0065] Furthermore, the inventory management device 40 converts the generated shipping code into a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code and outputs it, and also outputs invoice information. The inventory management device 40 also displays the output information on a screen.

[0066] Here, assume that shipper 10 has items a and b. Inventory management device 40 functions as a display unit that displays information about items a and b. Furthermore, when inventory management device 40 displays information about items a and a, as shown in FIG. 15, as shown in FIG. 15, information about items b and b is not displayed. Furthermore, when inventory management device 40 displays information about items b and b is displayed as shown in FIG. 15, as shown in FIG. 15, information about items a and a is not displayed. This protects the confidential information of each vendor. Note that item a corresponds to the first delivery vendor. Item a corresponds to the first product. Item b corresponds to the second delivery vendor. Item b corresponds to the second product.

[0067] After step S498, in step S102, the worker at the shipper 10 prints the shipping code (one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code) and the waybill information output in step S498. As a result, the worker at the shipper 10 creates an waybill as shown in FIG. 16. Furthermore, the worker at the shipper 10 attaches this created waybill to the product. Then, the worker at the shipper 10 ships the product with the waybill attached to it to the wholesaler 20.

[0068] Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 13, after step S102, the processes of steps S200, S202, S204, S300 and S500 are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0069] After step S204, in step S502, the inventory management device 40 registers the storage location information input in step S204. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 17, the inventory management device 40 generates a storage location code for the registered storage location information. At this time, the storage location code is set to the same number as the shipping code. Note that the storage location code may be set to a number different from the shipping code.

[0070] Returning to FIG. 13, after step S502, in step S205, the person in charge of unloading at the wholesaler 20 uses a barcode reader or a two-dimensional code reader to read the one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code shipping code on the invoice affixed in step S102.

[0071] As a result, in step S504, the inventory management device 40 converts the storage location code generated in step S502 into a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code and outputs the code, and also outputs the distribution information.

[0072] After step S504, in step S206, the unloading person at the wholesaler 20 prints out the one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code of the storage location code and distribution information output in step S504. The unloading person at the wholesaler 20 then creates a distribution instruction sheet. The unloading person at the wholesaler 20 then attaches the created distribution instruction sheet to the products placed in the storage location.

[0073] After step S206, the processes of steps S302, S304, S306, S308, and S506 are the same as those in the first embodiment. Also, the processes of steps S400, S402, S404, S508, and S510 are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0074] As described above, the inventory management device 40 of the second embodiment performs the work of the shipper 10, the work of the wholesaler 20 unloader, and the processing of the inventory management device 40. This second embodiment also provides the same effects as the first embodiment. The second embodiment also provides the following effects.

[0075] [2] The inventory management device 40 generates a storage location code from the invoice information and the storage location information. Furthermore, the inventory management device 40 outputs the storage location code when the wholesaler 20 reads the shipping code attached to the invoice. The invoice information corresponds to information about the product entered by the shipper 10, which corresponds to the delivery company. The storage location information corresponds to information about the product storage location entered by the wholesaler 20, which corresponds to the collection company. The invoice corresponds to a document prepared by the shipper 10, which corresponds to the delivery company.

[0076] This allows the wholesaler 20 to create a distribution instruction sheet simply by reading the shipping code attached to the invoice, thereby preventing an increase in the time and effort required to create a distribution instruction sheet.

[0077] (Third embodiment) The third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the work of the intermediate wholesaler 25, the work of the wholesaler 20, and the processing of the inventory management device 40. Other than this, the third embodiment is similar to the first embodiment.

[0078] Specifically, as shown in the flowchart of Fig. 18, the worker at the intermediate wholesaler 25 retrieves the product from the storage area in step S402, but does not read the code on the label in step S404 following step S402. Instead, the label manager at the wholesaler 20 reads the code on the label.

[0079] For example, in step S310 after step S308, the labeling staff of the wholesaler 20 checks the inventory of the products in the storage area.

[0080] In step S312 following step S310, the labeling staff of the wholesaler 20 uses a barcode reader or a two-dimensional code reader to read the codes on the labels attached to the products in the storage area. After completing the inventory check, the labeling staff of the wholesaler 20 presses the remaining goods check button.

[0081] As a result, in step S510, the inventory management device 40 updates the pickup status.

[0082] For example, as shown in Figure 19, when the code on the label attached to the product with the storage location number AA-23 is read and the remaining goods confirmation button is pressed, the remaining goods confirmation status is completed, but since the product remains uncollected, the collection status remains incomplete. The remaining goods confirmation status indicates whether the remaining goods confirmation has been completed or not.

[0083] Also, suppose the code on the label attached to the product with bin number AA-23 is not read and the remaining goods confirmation button is pressed. At this time, the remaining goods confirmation status is set to "Complete," as shown in FIG. 20 . Furthermore, since the product has been picked up and no more remaining goods remain, the pickup status is updated from "Incomplete" to "Complete." These updated pickup statuses are shared by both wholesaler 20 and intermediate wholesaler 25. This eliminates the need for workers at intermediate wholesaler 25 to check the inventory of the picked-up products. This reduces the increase in inventory management workload. When the code on the label attached to the product with bin number AA-23 is not read, the pickup status may be updated from "Incomplete" to "Complete" after a predetermined time has elapsed, regardless of whether the remaining goods confirmation status is set. This predetermined time is set through experiments, simulations, etc., using the time from when the product information and distribution information are entered until the product is picked up by intermediate wholesaler 25, so that the pickup status is updated correctly.

[0084] At this time, the inventory management device 40 also outputs distribution information of the products to be delivered by the wholesaler 20. Furthermore, the inventory management device 40 displays the output information on the screen.

[0085] Here, assume that there are two wholesalers 20, α and β. The inventory management device 40 functions as a display unit that displays information about α and β. When the inventory management device 40 displays information about α, as shown in FIG. 21, information about α is displayed. At this time, information about β is not displayed. When the inventory management device 40 displays information about β, information about β is displayed. At this time, information about α is not displayed. This protects the confidential information of each trader. Note that α corresponds to the first collection trader. β corresponds to the second collection trader.

[0086] As described above, the inventory management device 40 of the third embodiment performs the work of the intermediate wholesaler 25, the work of the wholesaler 20, and the processing of the inventory management device 40. The third embodiment also achieves the same effects as the first embodiment.

[0087] (Fourth embodiment) The fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the work of the wholesaler 20, the work of the intermediate wholesaler 25, and the processing of the inventory management device 40. The rest is the same as the first embodiment.

[0088] Specifically, as shown in the flowchart of Figure 22, the processes of steps S302, S304, S306, S308 and S506 are omitted, and therefore the label affixing work by the label clerk at wholesaler 20 is omitted.

[0089] Furthermore, in step S404 following step S402, the worker at the intermediate wholesaler 25 reads the storage location code attached to the distribution instruction sheet instead of reading the code attached to the label.

[0090] As a result, in step S510, the inventory management device 40 updates the pickup status.

[0091] As described above, in the fourth embodiment, work is performed by the wholesaler 20, work is performed by the intermediate wholesaler 25, and processing is performed by the inventory management device 40. In this fourth embodiment, the same effects as in the first embodiment are achieved.

[0092] (Fifth embodiment) The fifth embodiment differs from the third embodiment in the work performed by the wholesaler 20 and the processing performed by the inventory management device 40. The rest of the fifth embodiment is the same as the third embodiment.

[0093] Specifically, as shown in the flowchart of Figure 23, the processes of steps S302, S304, S306, S308 and S506 are omitted, and therefore the label affixing work by the label clerk at wholesaler 20 is omitted.

[0094] In addition, in step S312 following step S310, the labeling person at the wholesaler 20 reads the storage location code attached to the distribution instruction sheet instead of reading the code attached to the label.

[0095] As a result, in step S510, the inventory management device 40 updates the pickup status.

[0096] (Sixth embodiment) The sixth embodiment differs from the second embodiment in the work of the wholesaler 20, the work of the intermediate wholesaler 25, and the processing of the inventory management device 40. The rest is the same as the second embodiment.

[0097] Specifically, as shown in the flowchart of Figure 24, the processes of steps S302, S304, S306, S308 and S506 are omitted, and therefore the label affixing work by the label clerk at wholesaler 20 is omitted.

[0098] In step S404 following step S402, the worker at the intermediate wholesaler 25 reads the shipping code attached to the invoice instead of reading the code attached to the label.

[0099] As a result, in step S510, the inventory management device 40 updates the pickup status.

[0100] As described above, in the sixth embodiment, work is performed by the wholesaler 20, work is performed by the intermediate wholesaler 25, and processing is performed by the inventory management device 40. In the sixth embodiment, the same effects as in the second embodiment are achieved.

[0101] (Seventh embodiment) The seventh embodiment differs from the second embodiment in the work of the wholesaler 20, the work of the intermediate wholesaler 25, and the processing of the inventory management device 40. Other than this, the seventh embodiment is the same as the sixth embodiment.

[0102] Specifically, as shown in the flowchart of Figure 25, in step S402, the worker at the intermediate wholesaler 25 retrieves the product from the storage area, but does not read the shipping code attached to the invoice in step S404 following step S402. Instead, the label person at the wholesaler 20 reads the shipping code attached to the invoice.

[0103] In step S312 following step S310, the labeling staff at the wholesaler 20 uses a barcode reader or a two-dimensional code reader to read the shipping code attached to the shipping invoice. After completing the inventory check, the labeling staff at the wholesaler 20 presses the remaining goods check button.

[0104] As a result, in step S510, the inventory management device 40 updates the pickup status.

[0105] As described above, in the seventh embodiment, work is performed by the wholesaler 20, work is performed by the intermediate wholesaler 25, and processing is performed by the inventory management device 40. In the seventh embodiment, the same effects as in the sixth embodiment are achieved.

[0106] (Eighth embodiment) The eighth embodiment differs from the second embodiment in the work of the wholesaler 20, the work of the intermediate wholesaler 25, and the processing of the inventory management device 40. The rest is the same as the second embodiment.

[0107] Specifically, as shown in the flowchart of Figure 26, the processes of steps S205, S206, and S504 are omitted. This eliminates the need for the wholesaler 20's person in charge of unloading to create and attach distribution instructions. Furthermore, the processes of steps S302, S304, S306, S308, and S506 are omitted. This eliminates the need for the wholesaler 20's person in charge of labels to attach labels.

[0108] In step S404 following step S402, the worker at the intermediate wholesaler 25 reads the shipping code attached to the invoice instead of reading the code attached to the label.

[0109] As a result, in step S510, the inventory management device 40 updates the collection status. Furthermore, the inventory management device 40 outputs the distribution information related to the read shipping code as information about the product.

[0110] As described above, in the eighth embodiment, the work of the wholesaler 20, the work of the intermediate wholesaler 25, and the processing of the inventory management device 40 are carried out.

[0111] In the eighth embodiment, the inventory management device 40 serves as an association unit that acquires and associates information about products entered by the shipper 10 with information about product storage locations entered by the wholesaler 20. The inventory management device 40 also serves as a product information output unit that outputs information about products related to a shipping code when the shipping code attached to the invoice is read by the intermediate wholesaler 25. The eighth embodiment also achieves the same effects as the second embodiment. The shipping code is a code that is created by the delivery company and attached to a document attached to the product, and corresponds to a code that associates information about the product entered by the delivery company with information about the product storage location entered by the collection company.

[0112] (Ninth embodiment) The ninth embodiment differs from the eighth embodiment in the work of the intermediate wholesaler 25, the work of the wholesaler 20, and the processing of the inventory management device 40. Other than this, the ninth embodiment is the same as the eighth embodiment.

[0113] Specifically, as shown in the flowchart of Figure 27, the worker at the intermediate wholesaler 25 retrieves the product from the storage area in step S402, but does not read the shipping code attached to the invoice in step S404 following step S402. Instead, the label person at the wholesaler 20 reads the shipping code attached to the invoice.

[0114] In step S312 following step S310, the labeling staff at the wholesaler 20 uses a barcode reader or a two-dimensional code reader to read the shipping code attached to the shipping invoice. After completing the inventory check, the labeling staff at the wholesaler 20 presses the remaining goods check button.

[0115] As a result, in step S510, the inventory management device 40 updates the pickup status. Furthermore, the inventory management device 40 outputs the distribution information related to the read shipping code as information about the product.

[0116] As described above, in the ninth embodiment, the work of the wholesaler 20, the work of the intermediate wholesaler 25, and the processing of the inventory management device 40 are carried out.

[0117] In the ninth embodiment, the inventory management device 40 serves as the related unit. The inventory management device 40 also serves as a product information output unit that outputs information about products associated with a shipping code when the shipping code attached to an invoice is read by the wholesaler 20. The ninth embodiment also achieves the same effects as the eighth embodiment.

[0118] (Other embodiments) The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and appropriate modifications can be made to the above-described embodiments. Furthermore, it goes without saying that the elements constituting the embodiments in the above-described embodiments are not necessarily essential unless they are specifically stated as essential or are considered to be clearly essential in principle.

[0119] The location code generation unit, location code output unit, product information output unit, update unit, display unit, related unit, and related methods described herein may be implemented by a special-purpose computer configured with a processor and memory programmed to perform one or more functions embodied in a computer program. Alternatively, the location code generation unit, location code output unit, product information output unit, update unit, display unit, related unit, and related methods described herein may be implemented by a special-purpose computer configured with a processor configured with one or more dedicated hardware logic circuits. Alternatively, the location code generation unit, location code output unit, product information output unit, update unit, display unit, related unit, and related methods described herein may be implemented by one or more special-purpose computers configured with a processor and memory programmed to perform one or more functions in combination with a processor configured with one or more hardware logic circuits. Furthermore, the computer program may be stored as instructions executed by a computer on a computer-readable non-transitory tangible storage medium.

[0120] In the above embodiments, fruits and vegetables are listed as products. However, the products are not limited to fruits and vegetables, and may be agricultural products, livestock products, marine products, processed foods, industrial products, etc.

[0121] In the above embodiments, inventory management by the inventory management device 40 is exemplified as an example of inventory management for the shipper 10, wholesaler 20, and intermediate wholesaler 25. However, the inventory management by the inventory management device 40 is not limited to being used for inventory management for the shipper 10, wholesaler 20, and intermediate wholesaler 25. The inventory management by the inventory management device 40 may also be used for inventory management for the wholesaler 20, intermediate wholesaler 25, and retailer 30. In this case, the wholesaler 20 corresponds to the delivery company. The intermediate wholesaler 25 corresponds to the collection company. The retailer 30 corresponds to the delivery destination.

[0122] In each of the above embodiments, the value chain 5 includes a shipper 10, a wholesaler 20, a middleman 25, a retailer 30, and a consumer 35. However, the value chain 5 may not include a middleman 25. In this case, the retailer 30 corresponds to the delivery destination that receives the product from the wholesaler 20, which corresponds to the collection agent.

[0123] In each of the above embodiments, the person in charge of unloading at the wholesaler 20 and the person in charge of labels at the wholesaler 20 are different workers. However, the person in charge of unloading at the wholesaler 20 and the person in charge of labels at the wholesaler 20 may be the same worker.

[0124] The above embodiments may be combined as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 5. Value Chain 10 Shipped From 20 Wholesalers 25 Wholesalers 30 Retailers 35 Consumers 40 Inventory control device

Claims

1. 1. An inventory management program comprising: Inventory management device, a storage location code generation unit that generates a storage location code, which is a code relating to the storage location of the product, from information about the product storage location input by a receiving company (20, 25) that is a company that receives the product from a delivery company (10, 20) that is a company that delivers the product; a storage location code output unit that outputs the storage location code; a product information output unit that outputs information about the product associated with the storage location code when the storage location code is read by the collection company and attached to a document prepared by the collection company and attached to the product; An inventory management program that acts as a

2. the storage location code generation unit generates the storage location code from information about the product input by the delivery company and information about a storage location for the product input by the collection company; If the code related to the information about the product entered by the delivery company is a shipping code, 2. The inventory management program according to claim 1, wherein the storage location code output unit outputs the storage location code when the receiving company reads the shipping code attached to a document prepared by the delivering company.

3. The inventory management program according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the product information output unit outputs information regarding the product, the collection company, and the delivery destination (25, 30), which is the company that collects the product from the collection company, contained in a label attached to the product by the collection company, by the collection company reading the storage location code created by the collection company and attached to a document attached to the product.

4. the inventory management program causes the inventory management device to function as an update unit that updates a pickup status indicating whether pickup of the product by the delivery destination has been completed; The inventory management program according to claim 3, wherein the update unit updates the collection status by having the delivery destination read the code attached to the label, and shares the updated collection status with the collection company and the delivery destination.

5. the inventory management program causes the inventory management device to function as an update unit that updates a pickup status indicating whether pickup of the product by the delivery destination has been completed; The inventory management program according to claim 3, wherein the update unit updates the collection status by having the collection company read the code attached to the label, and shares the updated collection status with the collection company and the delivery destination.

6. the inventory management program causes the inventory management device to function as an update unit that updates the collection status, which indicates whether collection of the product by a delivery destination (25, 30), which is a company that collects the product from the collection company, has been completed; The inventory management program according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the update unit updates the collection status by the delivery destination reading the storage location code created by the collection company and attached to a document attached to the product, and shares the updated collection status with the collection company and the delivery destination.

7. the inventory management program causes the inventory management device to function as an update unit that updates the collection status, which indicates whether collection of the product by a delivery destination (25, 30), which is a company that collects the product from the collection company, has been completed; The inventory management program according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the update unit updates the collection status by having the collection company read the storage location code created by the collection company and attached to a document attached to the product, and shares the updated collection status with the collection company and the delivery destination.

8. The delivery agent is a first delivery agent, The product is a first product, If a company that is different from the first delivery company and delivers the second product to the collection company is called a second delivery company, the inventory management program causes the inventory management device to function as a display unit that displays information about the first delivery company, the first product, the second delivery company, and the second product; When the display on the display unit is performed by the first delivery company, information about the second delivery company and the second product is not displayed, but information about the first delivery company and the first product is displayed; 3. The inventory management program according to claim 1, wherein when the display on the display unit is performed by the second delivery company, information about the first delivery company and the first product is not displayed, but information about the second delivery company and the second product is displayed.

9. The collection company is a first collection company, If a company that is different from the first receiving company and that receives the product from the delivery company is called a second receiving company, the inventory management program causes the inventory management device to function as a display unit that displays information about the first collection company and the second collection company; When the display on the display unit is performed by the first collection company, information about the second collection company is not displayed, but information about the first collection company is displayed; An inventory management program as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein when the display unit displays information about the second collection company, information about the first collection company is not displayed, but information about the second collection company is displayed.

10. A company that collects the product from the collection company is designated as a first delivery destination, If a company that is different from the first delivery company and that collects the product from the collection company is set as the second delivery company, the inventory management program causes the inventory management device to function as a display unit that displays information about the first delivery destination and the second delivery destination; When the display by the display unit is performed by the first delivery destination, information about the second delivery destination is not displayed, and information about the first delivery destination is displayed; 3. The inventory management program according to claim 1, wherein when the display unit displays information about the second delivery destination, information about the first delivery destination is not displayed, but information about the second delivery destination is displayed.

11. 1. An inventory management program comprising: Inventory management device, an association unit that acquires and associates information about the product input by a delivery company (10, 20) that delivers the product and information about a storage location for the product input by a collection company (20, 25) that collects the product from the delivery company; a product information output unit that outputs information about the product related to the shipping code when the shipping code is read by either the receiving company or a delivery destination (25, 30) that is a company that receives the product from the receiving company, the shipping code being a code that is created by the delivering company and attached to a document that is attached to the product, and that is related to information about the product input by the delivering company and information about a storage location for the product input by the receiving company; An inventory management program that acts as a

12. the inventory management program causes the inventory management device to function as an update unit that updates a pickup status indicating whether pickup of the product by the delivery destination has been completed; The inventory management program according to claim 11, wherein the update unit updates the pickup status when the shipping code is read by the delivery destination, and shares the updated pickup status with the delivery company and the delivery destination.

13. the inventory management program causes the inventory management device to function as an update unit that updates a pickup status indicating whether pickup of the product by the delivery destination has been completed; The inventory management program according to claim 11, wherein the update unit updates the pickup status when the shipping code is read by the pickup company, and shares the updated pickup status with the pickup company and the delivery destination.

14. An inventory management device, a storage location code generation unit that generates a storage location code, which is a code relating to the storage location of the product, from information about the product storage location input by a receiving company (20, 25) that is a company that receives the product from a delivery company (10, 20) that is a company that delivers the product; a storage location code output unit that outputs the storage location code; a product information output unit that outputs information about the product associated with the storage location code by reading the storage location code that is created by the collection company and attached to a document that is attached to the product by the collection company; An inventory management device comprising:

15. 1. A method of inventory management, comprising: generating a storage location code, which is a code relating to a storage location of the product, from information about the storage location of the product input by a receiving company (20, 25) which is a company that receives the product from a delivery company (10, 20) which is a company that delivers the product; outputting the storage code; The storage location code, which is created by the collection company and attached to the product, is read by the collection company, and information about the product related to the storage location code is output; Inventory management methods, including:

16. An inventory management device, an association unit that acquires and associates information about the product input by a delivery company (10, 20) that delivers the product and information about a storage location of the product input by a collection company (20, 25) that collects the product from the delivery company; a product information output unit that outputs information about the product related to the shipping code when the shipping code is read by either the receiving company or a delivery destination (25, 30) that is a company that receives the product from the receiving company, the shipping code being a code created by the delivering company and attached to a document attached to the product, the shipping code being a code related to information about the product input by the delivering company and information about a storage location for the product input by the receiving company; An inventory management device comprising:

17. 1. A method of inventory management, comprising: Acquiring and associating information about the product input by a delivery company (10, 20) that delivers the product and information about a storage location of the product input by a collection company (20, 25) that collects the product from the delivery company; A shipping code, which is a code created by the delivery company and attached to a document attached to the product and which is related to information about the product input by the delivery company and information about a storage location for the product input by the collection company, is read by either the collection company or a delivery destination (25, 30), which is a company that collects the product from the collection company, thereby outputting information about the product related to the shipping code; Inventory management methods, including:

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