Reception device and reception system

Abstract

To facilitate the introduction of a reception device and a reception system.SOLUTION: A reception device 1 includes a touch panel display 12, a processing unit 11, a ticket issuing unit 14, a storage unit 13, a first housing 2, and a second housing 3. The processing unit 11 displays a reception screen on the touch panel display 12 to accept operation inputs from a visitor. The processing unit 11 acquires information about the visitor based on the operation input. The ticket issuing unit 14 issues an IC card 4, pre-authorized to unlock facility security, from a ticket outlet on the conditional that the processing unit 11 has acquired the information. The storage unit 13 stores the issued IC card 4 in association with the information acquired by the processing unit 11. The first housing 2 accommodates the touch panel display 12, the processing unit 11, and the storage unit 13. The second housing 3 accommodates the ticket issuing unit 14.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a reception device and a reception system, and more particularly to a reception device and a reception system that issues an IC card. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a security card management service system. The security card management service system has an entrance / exit management system.

[0003] The access control system works in conjunction with the authentication system, gate system, and card issuing / card collection system. Once the authentication system has confirmed the identity of the user, the card issuing / card collection system writes the access rights to an initialized and formatted card and issues the card. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-139727 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The card issuing and collecting system described in Patent Document 1 is linked to an authentication system, a gate system, etc., and therefore requires settings to link with the authentication system and the gate system, which creates the problem of a lot of work when it is introduced.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above-mentioned circumstances, and aims to provide a reception device and a reception system that can be easily introduced. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A reception device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a touch panel display, a processing unit, a ticket issuing unit, a memory unit, a first housing, and a second housing. The processing unit displays a reception screen on the touch panel display that accepts operational input from a visitor to a facility. The processing unit acquires information about the visitor based on the operational input. The ticket issuing unit issues an IC card from a ticketing port, the IC card having been granted authority to deactivate security at the facility in advance, on the condition that the processing unit has acquired the information. The memory unit stores the issued IC card in association with the information acquired by the processing unit. The first housing houses the touch panel display, the processing unit, and the memory unit. The second housing houses the ticket issuing unit.

[0008] A reception system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a reception system including two reception devices configured to communicate with each other. Each of the two reception devices includes a touch panel display, a processing unit, a ticket issuing unit, a memory unit, a first housing, and a second housing. The processing unit displays a reception screen on the touch panel display that accepts operation inputs from visitors to the facility. The processing unit acquires information about the visitor based on the operation input. The ticket issuing unit issues an IC card from a ticket issuing port, the IC card having pre-granted authority to deactivate security at the facility, on the condition that the processing unit has acquired the information. The first housing houses the touch panel display, the processing unit, and the memory unit. The second housing houses the ticket issuing unit. The memory unit of at least one of the two reception devices stores the IC card issued by the ticket issuing unit of each of the two reception devices and the information acquired by the processing unit of each of the two reception devices in association with each other.

[0009] A reception device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a reception device used as at least one of the two reception devices in the reception system, and includes a touch panel display, a processing unit, a ticket issuing unit, a storage unit, a first housing, and a second housing. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to facilitate the introduction of reception devices and reception systems. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the appearance of a reception device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of installation of the reception device of the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the reception device of the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the transition of display screens displayed by the reception device of the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a standby screen displayed by the reception device of the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a reception screen displayed by the reception device of the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a display screen displayed by the reception device of the same. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an administration home screen displayed by the reception device of the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an unreturned card screen displayed by the reception device of the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the reception device of the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a reception system according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Elements common to the embodiments described below are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions of the common elements may be omitted. The following embodiments and modifications are merely a portion of the various embodiments of the present disclosure. Various modifications of the following embodiments and modifications may be made depending on the design, etc., as long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved.

[0013] The drawings described in this disclosure are schematic drawings, and the ratios of the sizes and thicknesses of the components in the drawings do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios.

[0014] (Embodiment 1) (1) Overview First, an overview of a reception device 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0015] The reception device 1 of the first embodiment is installed in a facility 200 (see FIG. 3 ). In the present disclosure, the facility 200 is an office. In the present disclosure, the term "facility" includes residential facilities used for residential purposes, as well as non-residential facilities such as stores (tenants), offices, welfare facilities, educational facilities, hospitals, and factories. Non-residential facilities also include restaurants, amusement parks, event venues, hotels, inns, kindergartens, nurseries, and community centers. In other words, the facility 200 may be a residential facility such as an apartment building, or a non-residential facility such as an office building. Furthermore, the facility 200 also includes a facility in which residential and non-residential facilities coexist, for example, with stores on the lower floors and residences on the upper floors.

[0016] The reception device 1 is a device that issues an IC (Integrated Circuit) card 4 that allows a visitor H1 (see FIG. 2) to enter a management area 202 (see FIG. 2) within the facility 200. In the facility 200, when the IC card 4 is held over a reading unit (or authentication unit) 91 (see FIG. 2) and authentication is successful, a security gate such as a door 9 (see FIG. 2) is unlocked or opened.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 3, the reception device 1 of the first embodiment includes a touch panel display 12, a processing unit 11, a ticket issuing unit 14, a storage unit 13, a first housing 2, and a second housing 3.

[0018] The processing unit 11 displays on the touch panel display 12 a reception screen D2 (see FIG. 6) for receiving operation input by a visitor H1 to the facility 200. Furthermore, the processing unit 11 acquires visitor information, which is information relating to the visitor H1, based on the operation input by the visitor H1.

[0019] The ticket issuing unit 14 issues an IC card 4, which has been given the authority to deactivate security at the facility 200, from the ticket issuing port 141 (see Figure 1), on the condition that the processing unit 11 has acquired visitor information.

[0020] The storage unit 13 stores the issued IC card 4 and the visitor information acquired by the processing unit 11 in association with each other.

[0021] The first housing 2 houses a touch panel display 12, a processing unit 11, and a storage unit 13.

[0022] The second housing 3 houses the ticket issuing unit 14.

[0023] The reception device 1 of the first embodiment does not issue a ticket by granting the IC card 4 with authority to deactivate the security of the facility 200, but issues an IC card 4 that has been granted with authority to deactivate the security of the facility 200 in advance. Therefore, the reception device 1 of the first embodiment does not need to cooperate with an access control system or the like that manages entry and exit to the managed area 202 of the facility 200. This eliminates the need for settings for cooperation with an access control system or the like, and therefore the reception device 1 of the first embodiment has the advantage of being easy to implement. Furthermore, the reception device 1 of the first embodiment can reduce the workload of the manager of the facility 200, who greets the visitor H1 and lends the visitor H1 an IC card 4.

[0024] (2)Details The detailed configuration of the reception device 1 according to the first embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0025] (2.1) Configuration of the reception device As described above, the reception device 1 of embodiment 1 is a device that issues an IC card 4 that allows a visitor H1 to enter a controlled area 202 within a facility 200. In the present disclosure, a "controlled area" is an area inside a security gate such as a door 9. The reception device 1 is installed in a non-controlled area 201 (see FIG. 2) within the facility 200. In the present disclosure, a "non-controlled area" is an area outside a security gate such as a door 9, which can be entered without needing an IC card 4.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 1, the reception device 1 of the first embodiment includes a first housing 2 and a second housing 3. In the first embodiment, the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 are separate housings. However, the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 may be an integrated housing. The first housing 2 and the second housing 3 house the various components of the reception device 1. Note that "housed" in the present disclosure includes a state in which a part of the components housed in the housing is exposed to the outside of the housing.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 3 , the reception device 1 includes a ticket issuing unit 14, a collection unit 15, a card stocker 18, and a reading unit 19. In the first embodiment, the ticket issuing unit 14, the collection unit 15, the card stocker 18, and the reading unit 19 are housed in the second housing 3. The second housing 3 is also provided with a ticket issuing slot 141 and a return slot 151. The ticket issuing slot 141 and the return slot 151 are openings through which the IC card 4 passes. In the first embodiment, the ticket issuing slot 141 and the return slot 151 are a common opening. That is, in the first embodiment, a single opening provided in the second housing 3 functions as the ticket issuing slot 141 and the return slot 151. This eliminates the need to separately provide the ticket issuing slot 141 and the return slot 151, thereby enabling the reception device 1 to be made smaller. However, the ticket issuing slot 141 and the return slot 151 may be separate openings.

[0028] The card stocker 18 is configured to be able to store multiple IC cards 4. Each of the multiple IC cards 4 is given authority to deactivate the security of the facility 200 in advance, for example, by the facility 200's access control system. In this disclosure, the "authority to deactivate the security of the facility 200" includes the authority to allow a visitor H1 to pass through a security gate such as a door 9. Each of the multiple IC cards 4 has identification information that allows each of the multiple IC cards 4 to be identified.

[0029] The ticket issuing unit 14 has a transport mechanism for transporting the IC cards 4. The ticket issuing unit 14 issues the IC cards 4 from the ticket issuing port 141 on the condition that the processing unit 11 has acquired visitor information. The ticket issuing unit 14 of the first embodiment issues the IC cards 4 from the ticket issuing port 141 based on an issuance instruction output from the processing unit 11. More specifically, the ticket issuing unit 14 issues the IC cards 4 by transporting the number of IC cards 4 specified in the issuance instruction from the card stocker 18 to the ticket issuing port 141.

[0030] Furthermore, if the IC card 4 being transported is not registered in the memory unit 13, the ticket issuing unit 14 of the first embodiment transports the IC card 4 to, for example, a collection container to collect it. The processing unit 11 determines whether the IC card 4 being transported is an IC card 4 registered in the memory unit 13. If an instruction to cancel issuance is output from the processing unit 11 while the ticket issuing unit 14 of the first embodiment is issuing an IC card 4, the ticket issuing unit 14 transports the IC card 4 being transported to, for example, a collection container to collect it. This makes it possible to prevent a card different from the IC card 4 from being issued to visitor H1, even if a card different from the IC card 4, including a counterfeit card, is mixed in the card stocker 18.

[0031] The collection unit 15 has a transport mechanism that transports the IC card 4. The collection unit 15 collects the IC card 4 inserted into the return slot 151. More specifically, the collection unit 15 collects the IC card 4 by transporting the IC card 4 inserted into the return slot 151 from the return slot 151 to, for example, a collection container. Because the collection of the IC card 4 can be performed by the reception device 1, the collection of the IC card 4 can be performed without separately installing a collection device for the IC card 4, thereby reducing costs and installation space.

[0032] Furthermore, when an IC card 4 that is not registered in the memory unit 13 is inserted into the return slot 151, the collection unit 15 of the first embodiment ejects the inserted IC card 4. The processing unit 11 determines whether or not the IC card 4 inserted into the return slot 151 is an IC card 4 that is registered in the memory unit 13. When an IC card 4 that is not registered in the memory unit 13 is inserted into the return slot 151, the collection unit 15 of the first embodiment ejects the inserted IC card 4 based on an ejection command from the processing unit 11. This makes it possible to prevent the collection of an IC card other than the IC card 4 issued by the acceptance device 1, such as a counterfeit card.

[0033] The reading unit 19 reads the identification information of the IC card 4, for example, in a non-contact manner. The reading unit 19 reads the identification information of the IC card 4 being transported from the card stocker 18 to the ticket issuing port 141 by the ticket issuing unit 14. When the reading unit 19 reads the identification information of the IC card 4 being transported to the ticket issuing port 141 by the ticket issuing unit 14, the reading unit 19 outputs ticket issuance identification information including the read identification information to the processing unit 11. Note that if the reading unit 19 fails to read the identification information of the IC card 4, the reading unit 19 outputs information indicating the reading failure to the processing unit 11 as ticket issuance identification information.

[0034] Furthermore, the reading unit 19 reads the identification information of the IC card 4 being transported from the return port 151 to the collection container by the collection unit 15. When the reading unit 19 reads the identification information of the IC card 4 being transported from the return port 151 to the collection container by the collection unit 15, the reading unit 19 outputs return identification information including the read identification information to the processing unit 11. Note that if the reading unit 19 fails to read the identification information of the IC card 4, the reading unit 19 outputs information indicating the reading failure to the processing unit 11 as the return identification information.

[0035] The reception device 1 also includes a processing unit 11, a touch panel display 12, a storage unit 13, and an imaging unit 16. In the first embodiment, the processing unit 11, the touch panel display 12, the storage unit 13, and the imaging unit 16 are housed in a first housing 2. The reception device 1 of the first embodiment is also configured to be able to communicate with an information device such as a personal computer (PC). The information device is, for example, an administration terminal used by an administrator of the reception device 1.

[0036] The touch panel display 12 functions as a display unit and an operation unit of the reception device 1. The touch panel display 12 displays a display screen D0 such as a standby screen D1 (see FIG. 4). The touch panel display 12 also accepts operations from people such as a visitor H1.

[0037] The imaging unit 16 is a camera having optical components such as a lens and an imaging element. The imaging unit 16 captures an image of the visitor H1 to generate a captured image G1. In the first embodiment, the captured image G1 is a still image. However, the captured image G1 may also be a moving image or a frame-by-frame image. "Generating a captured image G1" includes generating image data.

[0038] For example, the imaging unit 16 is provided in a position where it can capture an image of the visitor H1 operating the touch panel display 12. For example, the imaging unit 16 captures an image of the visitor H1 operating the touch panel display 12 under the control of the processing unit 11. Note that the imaging unit 16 in the first embodiment captures an image of the upper body, including the face, of the visitor H1.

[0039] The processing unit 11 is mainly composed of a computer system having one or more processors and a memory. The functions of the processing unit 11 are realized by the processor of the computer system executing a program recorded in the memory or storage unit 13 of the computer system. The program may be recorded in the memory or storage unit 13, or may be provided via a telecommunications line such as the Internet, or may be recorded on a non-transitory recording medium such as a memory card and provided.

[0040] The processing unit 11 controls each component of the reception device 1, such as the touch panel display 12, the storage unit 13, the ticket issuing unit 14, the collection unit 15, and the imaging unit 16.

[0041] The processing unit 11 controls the touch panel display 12 to display a display screen D0 such as a standby screen D1 on the touch panel display 12. The processing unit 11 also accepts operation input to the touch panel display 12 by a person such as a visitor H1.

[0042] Fig. 4 shows the transition flow of the display screen D0 displayed by the reception device 1. However, the transition flow shown in Fig. 4 is merely an example, and the transition flow may be changed as appropriate. For example, if an error occurs while displaying each display screen D0, an error screen may be displayed. The error screen is a display screen D0 that shows information about the error, information on how to correct the error, etc.

[0043] The standby screen D1 (see FIG. 5) is a basic screen among the display screens D0 displayed on the touch panel display 12, and corresponds to a so-called home screen (or top screen). Details of the standby screen D1 will be explained in the section "(2.2) Details of the display screen."

[0044] When a predetermined operation is performed on the standby screen D1 by the visitor H1 or the like, the standby screen D1 transitions to one of the reception screen D2, the return screen D5, or the management home screen D7.

[0045] The reception screen D2 (see FIG. 6) is a display screen D0 that accepts input of visitor information, which is information about the visitor H1. Details of the reception screen D2 will be explained in the section "(2.2) Details of the display screen." When the visitor H1 performs a predetermined operation on the standby screen D1, the reception screen D2 transitions to a confirmation screen D3.

[0046] The confirmation screen D3 is a display screen D0 for confirming the visitor information entered by the visitor H1. In other words, the confirmation screen D3 shows the visitor information entered by the visitor H1. When the visitor H1 performs a predetermined operation on the confirmation screen D3, an IC card 4 is issued from the ticket issuing port 141, and the confirmation screen D3 transitions to a post-reception screen D4.

[0047] When the visitor H1 performs a predetermined operation on the confirmation screen D3, the processing unit 11 outputs a ticket issuance instruction to the ticket issuing unit 14. The processing unit 11 also acquires the visitor information input by the visitor H1.

[0048] Furthermore, when an IC card 4 is issued, the processing unit 11 acquires the identification information at the time of issuance from the reading unit 19. The processing unit 11 determines whether or not there is an IC card 4 corresponding to the identification information at the time of issuance among the multiple IC cards 4 registered in the storage unit 13.

[0049] If the IC card 4 corresponding to the identification information at the time of ticket issuance is not registered in the memory unit 13, the processing unit 11 outputs a ticket issuance cancel instruction to the ticket issuing unit 14. Note that, even if the identification information at the time of ticket issuance is information indicating a reading failure, the processing unit 11 outputs a ticket issuance cancel instruction to the ticket issuing unit 14. This makes it possible to prevent an IC card 4 that cannot be managed from being issued to visitor H1, and to prevent an IC card 4 that is unlikely to have its security disabled from being issued to visitor H1. These effects are more significant than when a caretaker or the like directly lends an IC card 4 to visitor H1.

[0050] On the other hand, if the IC card 4 corresponding to the identification information at the time of issuance is registered in the memory unit 13, the processing unit 11 associates the issued IC card 4 (i.e., the identification information of the IC card 4) with the visitor information acquired by the processing unit 11 and stores them in the memory unit 13.

[0051] Furthermore, the processing unit 11 of the first embodiment stores a captured image G1 of the visitor H1 captured by the imaging unit 16 in the storage unit 13, in association with the identification information and visitor information of the IC card 4. The captured image G1 may be generated at an appropriate timing. For example, the captured image G1 may be generated when the visitor H1 performs a predetermined operation on the confirmation screen D3 while the visitor H1 is entering the visitor information. This makes it easier to understand the type of visitor H1 to whom the IC card 4 has been issued.

[0052] The IC card 4 stored in the storage unit 13 in association with the visitor information etc. is stored in the storage unit 13 as a loaned IC card 4 until the IC card 4 is returned.

[0053] The post-reception screen D4 is the display screen D0 that is displayed after the IC card 4 is issued. The post-reception screen D4 includes a guidance image that notifies the visitor H1 of the guidance matters in the facility 200. That is, the processing unit 11 causes the display screen D0 including the guidance image to be displayed on the touch panel display 12. For example, the guidance matters include the procedure after the issuance of the IC card 4, precautions to take in the facility 200 or the management area 202, a map of the management area 202, etc. This allows the visitor H1 to be notified of the guidance matters in the facility 200.

[0054] The return screen D5 is a display screen D0 for accepting the return of the IC card 4. The return screen D5 displays, for example, a guide image that notifies the visitor H1 of instructions such as how to return the IC card 4. After the IC card 4 is returned, the return screen D5 transitions to a post-return screen D6 when the visitor H1 performs a predetermined operation on the return screen D5. Note that the return screen D5 may be configured to automatically transition to the post-return screen D6 on the condition that the IC card 4 is returned.

[0055] When the IC card 4 is returned, the processing unit 11 acquires return identification information from the reading unit 19. If the IC card 4 corresponding to the return identification information is stored in the storage unit 13 as a loaned IC card 4, the processing unit 11 stores information indicating that the IC card 4 corresponding to the return identification information has been returned in the storage unit 13. As a result, the IC card 4 corresponding to the return identification information is stored in the storage unit 13 as a returned IC card 4. On the other hand, if the IC card 4 corresponding to the return identification information is not stored in the storage unit 13 as a loaned IC card 4, that is, if an IC card 4 not registered in the storage unit 13 is inserted into the return slot 151, the processing unit 11 outputs a discharge instruction to the collection unit 15. Note that even if the return identification information is information indicating a reading failure, the processing unit 11 outputs a discharge instruction to the collection unit 15.

[0056] The post-return screen D6 is the display screen D0 that is displayed after returning the IC card 4. The post-return screen D6 includes, for example, a guide image that notifies the visitor H1 of information to explain the process after returning the IC card 4. For example, the guide information includes important points to note after returning the IC card 4.

[0057] The management home screen D7 (see FIG. 8) is a display screen D0 for the administrator of the reception device 1. In the following description, the display screen D0 for the administrator may be referred to as the "management screen." That is, the processing unit 11 of the first embodiment displays the management screen on the touch panel display 12. The management home screen D7 is a basic screen among the management screens displayed on the touch panel display 12, and corresponds to the so-called home screen (or top screen) among the management screens. When the administrator performs a predetermined operation on the management home screen D7, the management home screen D7 transitions to one of a device setting screen D8, an unreturned card screen D9, or an image setting screen D10. Details of the management home screen D7 will be described in the section "(2.2) Details of the Display Screen."

[0058] The device setting screen D8 is a management screen for configuring various settings for the reception device 1. On the device setting screen D8, for example, it is possible to configure settings such as whether or not to capture an image of the visitor H1 with the imaging unit 16 when issuing an IC card 4.

[0059] The unreturned card screen D9 (see FIG. 9) is a management screen for displaying information about unreturned IC cards 4. The unreturned card screen D9 also shows visitor information about visitor H1 who has not returned an IC card 4. Details of the unreturned card screen D9 will be explained in the section "(2.2) Details of the display screen."

[0060] The image setting screen D10 is a management screen for setting guide images included in various display screens D0. That is, the processing unit 11 causes the touch panel display 12 to display a management screen on which guide images can be set. On the image setting screen D10, it is possible to select or change a guide image to be placed on each display screen D0 from among multiple types of guide images stored in the storage unit 13, for example. That is, the image setting screen D10 accepts an operation to select or change a guide image to be placed on each display screen D0. According to the reception device 1 of the first embodiment, since guide images can be selected or changed on the management screen, even an administrator who does not have skills such as programming can easily select or change a guide image.

[0061] The storage unit 13 is a semiconductor memory such as a writable read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), or an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM). Note that the storage unit 13 is not limited to a semiconductor memory, and may be a hard disk drive or the like.

[0062] The storage unit 13 of the first embodiment stores card information for each of a plurality of IC cards 4 that have been granted authorization to deactivate the security of the facility 200 in advance. The card information includes information regarding the type of the IC card 4 or identification information such as the card number. Note that the IC card 4 registered in the storage unit 13 in the present disclosure refers to the IC card 4 whose card information is stored in the storage unit 13. The storage unit 13 also stores the issued IC card 4, visitor information acquired by the processing unit 11, and the captured image G1 of the visitor H1 captured by the imaging unit 16 in association with each other. The storage unit 13 also stores a plurality of types of guide images that can be arranged on each display screen D0.

[0063] (2.2) Details of the display screen The standby screen D1 will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 5. As shown in Fig. 5, the standby screen D1 includes a first area A1 and a second area A2. Within the standby screen D1, the first area A1 is located above the second area A2. Within the first area A1, a guide image is located to inform the visitor H1 of instructions such as how to operate the standby screen D1. Within the second area A2, a reception button B1, a return button B2, and a management button B3 are located.

[0064] When the reception button B1 is touched, the standby screen D1 transitions to a reception screen D2. When the return button B2 is touched, the standby screen D1 transitions to a return screen D5. When the management button B3 is touched, the standby screen D1 transitions to an administration home screen D7. In the reception device 1 of the first embodiment, after the management button B3 is touched, the standby screen D1 transitions to the administration home screen D7 on the condition that the management password is entered.

[0065] Next, the reception screen D2 will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 6. As shown in Fig. 6, the reception screen D2 includes a third area A3 and a fourth area A4. Within the reception screen D2, the third area A3 is located above the fourth area A4.

[0066] The third area A3 has selection fields and input fields that accept operational input for inputting visitor information, which is information about visitor H1. The selection fields and input fields accept input of visitor information such as "the name of visitor H1's affiliation (or company name)," "the name of visitor H1," "the number of IC cards 4 issued," "the purpose of visitor H1," "visitor H1's destination," and "the telephone number of visitor H1." If multiple IC cards 4 have been issued, the visitor information entered in the selection fields and input fields is associated with the multiple IC cards 4 and stored in the memory unit 13.

[0067] Additionally, buttons B4 and B5 are arranged in the third area A3. When button B4 is touched, the reception screen D2 transitions to a confirmation screen D3. When button B5 is touched, the reception screen D2 transitions to a standby screen D1.

[0068] In the fourth area A4, a software keyboard is arranged for inputting visitor information into the input fields.

[0069] Next, the post-reception screen D4 and the post-return screen D6 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 7. The post-reception screen D4 and the post-return screen D6 include a fifth area A5. Various guide images are arranged in the fifth area A5. For example, on the post-reception screen D4, guide images are arranged in the fifth area A5 to inform the visitor H1 of the steps to take after issuing the IC card 4, important points to note about the facility 200 or the management area 202, or guide information about the map of the management area 202. Furthermore, on the post-return screen D6, guide images are arranged in the fifth area A5 to inform the visitor H1 of the steps to take after returning the IC card 4, etc.

[0070] Next, details of the management home screen D7 will be described with reference to Fig. 8. The management home screen D7 is displayed on the touch panel display 12 by transitioning from the standby screen D1. The management home screen D7 may also be displayed on the touch panel display 12 by connecting an management terminal to the reception device 1. When an management terminal is connected to the reception device 1, input operations on each management screen may be performed using input devices such as a touch panel display, a mouse, and a keyboard provided on or connected to the management terminal. For example, touch operations on buttons on each management screen may be click operations using a mouse.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 8, buttons B6 to B9 are arranged on the management home screen D7.

[0072] When button B6 is touched, the management home screen D7 transitions to a device setting screen D8. When button B7 is touched, the management home screen D7 transitions to an unreturned card screen D9. When button B8 is touched, the management home screen D7 transitions to an image setting screen D10. When button B9 is touched, the management home screen D7 transitions to a standby screen D1.

[0073] Next, the unreturned card screen D9 will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 9. As shown in Fig. 9, the unreturned card screen D9 includes a sixth area A6, a seventh area A7, and an eighth area A8. Within the unreturned card screen D9, the sixth area A6 is located above the seventh area A7 and the eighth area A8. Additionally, within the unreturned card screen D9, the seventh area A7 is located to the left of the eighth area A8.

[0074] The sixth area A6 displays visitor information associated with the unreturned IC card 4. By viewing the visitor information displayed in the sixth area A6, a caretaker or other personnel can identify the visitor H1 who has not returned the IC card 4. The seventh area A7 displays a captured image G1 of the visitor H1 associated with the unreturned IC card 4. By viewing the captured image G1 displayed in the seventh area A7, a caretaker or other personnel can identify the face of the visitor H1 who has not returned the IC card 4. Furthermore, the captured image G1 in the first embodiment is an image of the upper body, including the face, of the visitor H1. Therefore, by viewing the captured image G1, a caretaker or other personnel can identify the clothing of the visitor H1 (i.e., can learn the clothing information of the visitor H1). This has the advantage of making it easier to identify the visitor H1 who lent the IC card 4.

[0075] Buttons B10 to B12 are arranged in the eighth area A8. Buttons B10 and B11 are buttons for changing the information displayed on the unreturned card screen D9 to information related to another unreturned IC card 4. By performing a touch operation on button B10 or button B11, visitor information and captured image G1 associated with the other unreturned IC card 4 are displayed on the unreturned card screen D9. Furthermore, by performing a touch operation on button B12, the unreturned card screen D9 transitions to the management home screen D7.

[0076] (3) Operation of the reception device Next, the process of the reception method performed by the reception device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0077] When the reception device 1 is started up, it displays a standby screen D1 (step S1). Next, when the reception device 1 receives a predetermined operation for displaying a reception screen D2 (step S2), it displays the reception screen D2 on the touch panel display 12 (step S3).

[0078] Next, upon receiving an operation input of visitor information from the visitor H1 (step S4), the reception device 1 acquires the visitor information (step S5). For example, in the processing of step S5, the reception device 1 acquires a captured image G1 of the visitor H1 by capturing an image of the visitor H1 with the imaging unit 16.

[0079] Next, the reception device 1 issues the number of IC cards 4 corresponding to the operation input of the visitor H1 (step S6), and records the issued IC cards 4, the acquired visitor information, and the captured image G1 of the visitor H1 in association with each other (step S7), thereby completing the series of processes shown in FIG.

[0080] In the processing of steps S1 to S7 described above, the reception device 1 does not cooperate with an access control system or the like that manages entry and exit to the management area 202. In other words, the reception device 1 of embodiment 1 can issue an IC card 4 to a visitor H1 without coordinating with an access control system or the like, making it relatively easy to introduce the reception device 1.

[0081] The flowchart shown in FIG. 10 is merely an example, and the order of the processes may be changed as appropriate, and processes may be added or deleted as appropriate.

[0082] (Embodiment 2) A reception system 100 according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 11. The reception system 100 includes a reception device 1A (first reception device) and a reception device 1B (second reception device) that are configured to be able to communicate with each other. In the present disclosure, "capable of communication" means that signals can be exchanged directly or indirectly via a network or a repeater, using an appropriate communication method such as wired communication or wireless communication. In the following description, when there is no need to distinguish between reception device 1A and reception device 1B, each of reception device 1A and reception device 1B may be referred to as a "reception device 1." In other words, the reception system 100 according to the second embodiment includes two reception devices 1 that are configured to be able to communicate with each other.

[0083] The reception device 1 of embodiment 2, like the reception device 1 of embodiment 1, comprises a first housing 2, a second housing 3, a processing unit 11, a touch panel display 12, a memory unit 13, a ticket issuing unit 14, a collection unit 15, an imaging unit 16, a card storage unit 18, and a reading unit 19.

[0084] The receiving device 1 of the second embodiment further includes a communication unit 17. The communication unit 17 includes an interface that allows communication with other receiving devices 1. In the second embodiment, a case where receiving device 1A and receiving device 1B communicate with each other via wired communication is illustrated.

[0085] The reception device 1A and the reception device 1B are placed in different locations within the facility 200. For example, if there are two entrances to the management area 202, the reception device 1A is placed outside one of the two entrances (the first entrance), and the reception device 1B is placed outside the other of the two entrances (the second entrance).

[0086] That is, according to the reception system 100 of the second embodiment, even if there are multiple entrances and exits to the management area 202, it is possible to issue an IC card 4 to the visitor H1 at each entrance and exit without linking with an access control system, etc. This makes it relatively easy to introduce the reception system 100.

[0087] In the reception system 100 of the second embodiment, the storage unit 13 of at least one of the two reception devices 1 stores, in association with each other, the IC card 4 issued from the ticket issuing unit 14 of each of the two reception devices 1 (i.e., the identification information of the IC card 4) and the visitor information acquired by the processing unit 11 of each of the two reception devices 1. Furthermore, in the reception system 100 of the second embodiment, the storage unit 13 of at least one of the two reception devices 1 stores, in association with each other, the IC card 4 issued from the ticket issuing unit 14 of each of the two reception devices 1, the visitor information acquired by the processing unit 11 of each of the two reception devices 1, and the captured image G1 generated by the imaging unit 16 of each of the two reception devices 1. In embodiment 2, an example is shown in which reception device 1A, one of two reception devices 1, stores the IC cards 4 issued by each of the two reception devices 1, the visitor information acquired by each of the two reception devices 1, and the captured images G1 generated by each of the two reception devices 1 in association with each other.

[0088] Every time reception device 1B issues an IC card 4, it transmits to reception device 1A the identification information of the issued IC card 4, as well as the visitor information and captured image G1 associated with the issued IC card 4. Reception device 1A stores the received identification information, visitor information, and captured image G1 in the memory unit 13 of reception device 1A in association with each other.

[0089] Furthermore, every time the reception device 1B collects an IC card 4, it transmits to the reception device 1A the identification information of the collected IC card 4. The reception device 1A stores information indicating that the IC card 4 corresponding to the received identification information has been returned in the storage unit 13 of the reception device 1A.

[0090] According to the reception system 100 of the second embodiment, the storage unit 13 of the reception device 1A stores the IC cards 4 issued by each of the two reception devices 1, the visitor information acquired by each of the two reception devices 1, and the captured images G1 generated by each of the two reception devices 1 in association with each other. Therefore, a caretaker or the like can grasp information on unreturned IC cards 4 throughout the entire reception system 100 by checking, for example, the unreturned card screen D9 of the reception device 1A. In other words, the reception system 100 of the second embodiment allows the return information of IC cards 4 throughout the entire reception system 100 to be checked on a single reception device 1 without using an information device such as a dedicated server. Therefore, the reception system 100 of the second embodiment can reduce implementation costs.

[0091] (Variation) Modifications of the first and second embodiments are listed below.

[0092] In the second embodiment, an example has been given in which one of the two reception devices 1 (reception device 1A) associates and stores the IC cards 4 issued by each of the two reception devices 1, the visitor information acquired by each of the two reception devices 1, and the captured images G1 generated by each of the two reception devices 1. However, both of the two reception devices 1 may also associate and store the IC cards 4 issued by each of the two reception devices 1, the visitor information acquired by each of the two reception devices 1, and the captured images G1 generated by each of the two reception devices 1.

[0093] In the second embodiment, the reception system 100 is illustrated as having two reception devices 1. However, the reception system 100 may also have three or more reception devices 1. Furthermore, at least one of the three or more reception devices 1 may be configured to store an IC card 4 issued by each of the three or more reception devices 1, visitor information acquired by each of the three or more reception devices 1, and a captured image G1 generated by each of the three or more reception devices 1, in association with each other.

[0094] In the reception system 100 of the second embodiment, the multiple reception devices 1 may include at least one of a reception device 1 dedicated to issuing IC cards 4 and a reception device 1 dedicated to collecting IC cards 4. For example, if the reception system 100 includes three reception devices 1, the three reception devices 1 may be a reception device 1 that issues and collects IC cards 4, a reception device 1 dedicated to issuing IC cards 4, and a reception device 1 dedicated to collecting IC cards 4.

[0095] (summary) As is clear from the above-described embodiment and modified examples, the reception device (1) according to the first aspect includes a touch panel display (12), a processing unit (11), a ticket issuing unit (14), a memory unit (13), a first housing (2), and a second housing (3). The processing unit (11) displays a reception screen (D2) on the touch panel display (12) that accepts operational input from a visitor (H1) to the facility (200). The processing unit (11) acquires information about the visitor (H1) based on the operational input. The ticket issuing unit (14), on the condition that the processing unit (11) acquires the information, issues an IC card (4) from the ticket issuing port (141) that has been granted authorization to deactivate the security of the facility (200). The memory unit (13) stores the issued IC card (4) in association with the information acquired by the processing unit (11). The first housing (2) houses a touch panel display (12), a processing unit (11), and a storage unit (13). The second housing (3) houses a ticket issuing unit (14).

[0096] According to this aspect, the reception device (1) can be easily installed. The reception device (1) according to the second aspect is the same as the reception device (1) according to the first aspect, and further includes a collection unit (15). The collection unit (15) collects the IC card (4) inserted into the return slot (151). The second housing (3) houses the collection unit (15).

[0097] According to this aspect, it is possible to reduce costs and installation space.

[0098] In the reception device (1) according to the third embodiment, the ticket issuing opening (141) and the return opening (151) are the same as those in the second embodiment.

[0099] According to this aspect, the reception device (1) can be made smaller.

[0100] In the reception device (1) according to the fourth aspect, in the second or third aspect, when an IC card (4) that is not registered in the memory unit (13) is inserted into the return slot (151), the collection unit (15) ejects the inserted IC card (4).

[0101] According to this embodiment, it is possible to prevent the reception device (1) from collecting an IC card other than the IC card (4) that it has issued.

[0102] The reception device (1) according to a fifth aspect is the reception device (1) of any one of the first to fourth aspects, further including an imaging unit (16). The imaging unit (16) captures an image of the visitor (H1) to generate a captured image (G1). The storage unit (13) stores the issued IC card (4), the information acquired by the processing unit (11), and the captured image (G1) in association with each other.

[0103] According to this embodiment, it is easier to know to what kind of visitor (H1) the IC card (4) has been issued.

[0104] In the reception device (1) according to the sixth aspect, in any of the first to fifth aspects, the processing unit (11) displays a management screen (unreturned card screen D9) on the touch panel display (12). The management screen shows information about a visitor (H1) who has not returned an IC card (4).

[0105] According to this embodiment, information about the visitor (H1) who has not returned the IC card (4) can be notified to the manager or the like.

[0106] In the reception device (1) according to the seventh aspect, in any of the first to sixth aspects, the processing unit (11) causes the touch panel display (12) to display a display screen (D0) including a guide image that notifies the visitor (H1) of information to be guided in the facility (200).

[0107] According to this embodiment, the visitor (H1) can be notified of the information to be given in the facility (200).

[0108] In the reception device (1) according to the eighth aspect, in the seventh aspect, the storage unit (13) stores a plurality of types of guide images. The processing unit (11) displays a management screen (image setting screen D10) on the touch panel display (12). The management screen accepts an operation to change the guide image.

[0109] According to this aspect, even a manager who does not have skills such as programming can easily select or change the guide image.

[0110] The configurations other than those of the first aspect are not essential for the reception device (1) and can be omitted as appropriate.

[0111] A reception system (100) according to a ninth aspect is a reception system including two reception devices (1A, 1B) configured to be able to communicate with each other. Each of the two reception devices (1A, 1B) includes a touch panel display (12), a processing unit (11), a ticket issuing unit (14), a storage unit (13), a first housing (2), and a second housing (3). The processing unit (11) displays a reception screen (D2) on the touch panel display (12) that accepts operation input from a visitor (H1) to a facility (200). The processing unit (11) acquires information about the visitor (H1) based on the operation input. The ticket issuing unit (14) issues an IC card (4) from a ticket issuing port (141) that has been granted authorization to unlock the security of the facility (200) on the condition that the processing unit (11) acquires the information. The first housing (2) houses a touch panel display (12), a processing unit (11), and a memory unit (13). The second housing (3) houses a ticket issuing unit (14). The memory unit (13) of at least one of the two reception devices (1A, 1B) stores the IC cards (4) issued from the ticket issuing units (14) of the two reception devices (1A, 1B) and information acquired by the processing units (11) of the two reception devices (1A, 1B) in association with each other.

[0112] According to this embodiment, the reception system (100) can be relatively easily introduced.

[0113] A reception device (1) according to a tenth aspect is a reception device (1) used as at least one of the two reception devices (1A, 1B) in the reception system (100) according to the ninth aspect. The reception device (1) includes a touch panel display (12), a processing unit (11), a ticket issuing unit (14), a memory unit (13), a first housing (2), and a second housing (3).

[0114] According to this embodiment, the reception system (100) can be relatively easily introduced. [Explanation of symbols]

[0115] 1, 1A, 1B Reception device 2. First enclosure 200 facilities 3 Second enclosure 4. IC card 11 Processing section 12 Touch panel display 13 Storage section 14 Ticketing Department 141 Ticket Counter 15 Collection Department 151 Return Slot 16 Imaging unit D2 Reception screen D9 Unreturned Card Screen (Management Screen) D10 Image settings screen (administration screen) H1 Visitor

Claims

1. A touch panel display and a processing unit that displays a reception screen on the touch panel display for receiving operation input from a visitor to the facility, and acquires information about the visitor based on the operation input; a ticket issuing unit that issues, from a ticket issuing port, an IC card that has been given authority to deactivate security at the facility in advance, on condition that the processing unit has acquired the information; a storage unit that stores the issued IC card and the information acquired by the processing unit in association with each other; a first housing that houses the touch panel display, the processing unit, and the storage unit; a second housing that houses the ticket issuing unit; Equipped with Reception equipment.

2. The IC card reader further includes a collection unit that collects the IC card inserted into the return slot, The second housing accommodates the collection unit. The reception device according to claim 1 .

3. The ticket issuing port and the return port are shared, The reception device according to claim 2 .

4. When the IC card that is not registered in the storage unit is inserted into the return slot, the collection unit ejects the inserted IC card. The reception device according to claim 2 or 3.

5. an imaging unit that captures an image of the visitor and generates a captured image; the storage unit stores the issued IC card, the information acquired by the processing unit, and the captured image in association with each other; The reception device according to claim 1 .

6. the processing unit causes the touch panel display to display a management screen; the management screen displays the information regarding the visitor who has not returned the IC card; The reception device according to claim 1 .

7. the processing unit causes the touch panel display to display a display screen including a guide image that notifies the visitor of guide matters in the facility. The reception device according to claim 1 .

8. The storage unit stores a plurality of types of the guide image, the processing unit causes the touch panel display to display a management screen; the management screen accepts an operation to change the guide image; The reception device according to claim 7.

9. A reception system including two reception devices configured to be able to communicate with each other, Each of the two accepting devices A touch panel display and a processing unit that displays a reception screen on the touch panel display for receiving operation input from a visitor to the facility, and acquires information about the visitor based on the operation input; a ticket issuing unit that issues, from a ticket issuing port, an IC card that has been given in advance authority to release security at the facility, on condition that the processing unit has acquired the information; A memory unit; a first housing that houses the touch panel display, the processing unit, and the storage unit; a second housing that houses the ticket issuing unit; Equipped with the storage unit of at least one of the two reception devices stores the IC card issued from the ticket issuing unit of each of the two reception devices and the information acquired by the processing unit of each of the two reception devices in association with each other; Reception system.

10. A reception device used as at least one of the two reception devices in the reception system according to claim 9, the touch panel display; the processing unit; The ticket issuing unit; The storage unit; The first housing; The second housing; Equipped with Reception equipment.

Images