Collection support device, collection support system, and collection support method

Abstract

To provide a collection support device, a collection support system, and a collection support method.SOLUTION: A collection support device includes: a receiving unit configured to receive a detection message including identification information of a tag attached to an article; and a storage unit configured to store the state of the article, including a state in which the article is collected for recycling or reuse, in association with the identification information of the tag included in the detection message. When the device accepts a designation of identification information from a business operator, the device notifies the business operator of the state of the article corresponding to the designated identification information in association with the identification information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a collection support device, a collection support system, and a collection support method for supporting the collection of articles. [Background technology]

[0002] Various systems have been proposed for notifying owners of found lost items (see, for example, Patent Document 1). However, the amount of lost items handled by police or public transport agencies has not decreased, and securing a place to store lost items and securing the human resources to manage them has become an issue for police or public transport agencies.

[0003] In recent years, a system has been proposed that uses a tag equipped with a communication means via Bluetooth (registered trademark) and a communication device such as a smartphone that communicates with the tag to enable the recovery of a lost item to which a tag is attached. In this system, when communication between the tag and the communication device carried by the owner is interrupted, the system notifies the owner that the tagged item has been separated from the owner, i.e., that the item has been lost, and then uses the location information acquisition function of the communication device to detect the point where communication was interrupted and identify the location where the item was lost. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-210197 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Although various systems have been proposed, the issues surrounding the handling of lost property have not been fully resolved. Tags equipped with Bluetooth (registered trademark) communication are themselves expensive. It is believed that the system has not been widely adopted by end users due to the complicated registration procedures required to use the system and the need to replace tags when the battery runs out.

[0006] From the standpoint of the institution or facility to which lost property is reported, a system that requires the business operation of a specific application such as that disclosed in Patent Document 1 is cumbersome to operate.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide a collection support device, a collection support system, and a collection support method that make it easier to collect items. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The collection support device includes a receiving unit that receives a detection message including identification information of a tag attached to an item, and a memory unit that stores the state of the item, including the state of the item when it is collected for recycling or reuse, in association with the identification information of the tag included in the detection message.When the collection support device receives designation of the identification information from a business, it notifies the business of the state of the item corresponding to the designated identification information in association with the identification information. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a collection support system. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing one form of a tag. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a collection support system. [Figure 4] An example of a screen displayed on a tag sales site is shown. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a purchase acceptance processing procedure based on a sales screen. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for registering tag identification information in the recycling support device. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for registering tag identification information in the recycling support device. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of tag information stored in a storage unit. [Figure 9]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display unit of a collection terminal device. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a processing procedure for detecting an item performed in the collection support system. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a detection notification to a user. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a procedure for a collection process. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a procedure for a collection process. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing another example of the procedure of the collection process. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a collection support system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 16] 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure at the time of sale in the management server according to the second embodiment. [Figure 17] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for storing identification information of a tag in the collection support device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a processing procedure for detecting an item performed in the collection support system of the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The collection support device includes a receiving unit that receives a detection message including identification information of a tag attached to an item, and a memory unit that stores the state of the item, including the state of the item when it is collected for recycling or reuse, in association with the identification information of the tag included in the detection message.When the collection support device receives designation of the identification information from a business, it notifies the business of the state of the item corresponding to the designated identification information in association with the identification information.

[0011] In this specification, the term "detection" includes the meanings of "pick up," "delivery," and "arrival."

[0012] The collection terminal device notifies the seller, manufacturer, rental company, or transport company of the tagged item or the tag itself of the detection of the item based on the identification information read from the tag. The seller, rental company, or transport company notifies the user of the detection based on the customer data managed by each of them.

[0013] With the above configuration, the business operator who manages the identification information of the tag and the business operator who manages the customer data can work together to notify the user of the detection of an item. (1) Institutions or facilities to which items are delivered can purchase or authorize the installation of collection terminal devices to facilitate the collection of items and reduce the resources traditionally required for the storage and management of items. (2) Businesses that sell or rent goods or tags do not have to bear the burden of installing collection terminal devices that detect tags at various locations. By notifying users of the detection, businesses can expect to increase their contact points with users and improve their relationships. (3) A business operator who transfers or leases a collected terminal device through sales or other means and manages it does not have to bear the burden of selling the item or tag. The business operator who manages the collected terminal device will notify the business operator who sells the tag of the detection using information that can identify the tag. The above (1) to (3) may be performed by different businesses or organizations (entities), or at least two of them may be performed by the same business or organization.

[0014] In this specification, the term "lost" includes the meanings of "missing" and "stolen."

[0015] The collection support system may further include a collection support device capable of encrypted communication with each of the plurality of collection terminal devices. Each of the plurality of collection terminal devices transmits a detection message for the item, including the identification information read by the reading unit, to the collection support device. The collection support device includes a receiving unit that receives a notification of the detection message from the collection terminal device, and a transmitting unit that transmits a detection notification for the item to the seller, manufacturer, rental company, or transport company associated with the identification information of the tag included in the detection message.

[0016] The identification information of tags detected by collection terminal devices installed at various locations is transmitted as detection messages to collection support devices via secure encrypted communications. The collection support devices store the tag identification information and the correspondence with the business to be notified when a tagged item is detected. Based on the received detection message, the collection support devices can appropriately notify the business of the detection of a tagged item using information for identifying the tag agreed upon between the collection support system and the business's system.

[0017] The detection notification transmitted from the collection support device to the business operator may be associated with location information indicating the detection location or storage location associated with information identifying the collection terminal device.

[0018] With the above configuration, a user who receives a notification from a business operator that an item has been detected can know where to go to collect the item.

[0019] The collection terminal device may be equipped with an uninterruptible power supply or may be connected to an uninterruptible power supply.

[0020] With the above configuration, the collection terminal device, which is always in operation, can detect the articles.

[0021] The tag may have a built-in antenna and storage medium, and the reader of the collection terminal device may wirelessly read the tag identification information stored in the storage medium via the antenna.

[0022] The tags can be sticker- or sheet-shaped, and do not require a wireless communication device or a power source for the device. Such tags are inexpensive compared to tags equipped with Bluetooth communication means, making them easy for users to purchase. Users can attach tags not only to valuable items such as wallets and bags, but also to inexpensive items such as umbrellas, clothing, and accessories. This will facilitate the recovery of the vast amount of umbrellas and clothing delivered to lost property management centers. For users, this increases the chances of recovering umbrellas and clothing that they would have given up on if lost.

[0023] The collection terminal device is a device that constitutes the collection support system described above, and includes a reader that reads identification information from a sticker-like or sheet-like tag that identifies the tag. Based on the identification information read by the reader from the tag attached to an item, the collection support device notifies a seller, manufacturer, rental company, or transport company of the item or tag that corresponds to the identification information of the detection of the item.

[0024] The collection support device includes a receiving unit that receives a detection message including identification information of a sticker-like or sheet-like tag attached to an item, and a transmitting unit that transmits a detection notification of the item to a seller, manufacturer, rental company, or transport company of the item or tag corresponding to the identification information, based on the identification information of the tag included in the detection message.

[0025] In the collection support method, when a sticker-like or sheet-like tag is within a reading range of at least one of collection terminal devices installed at multiple locations, identification information that identifies the tag is read from the tag. The collection support device that receives a detection message from the collection terminal device notifies a seller, manufacturer, rental company, or transport company of the item or tag corresponding to the identification information that the item has been detected, based on the identification information.

[0026] In the collection support method, a request for purchasing or renting the tag may be received by a management server of the sales or rental business. The management server of the business stores a correspondence between user identification information of a requester or an owner of an item to which the tag is attached and information identifying the tag. When a detection of the item including information identifying the tag is notified, the sales, manufacturing, rental, or transport business may notify the user based on the user identification information corresponding to the identification information of the tag.

[0027] In the collection support method, the management server may also accept a request to output an image, color, text, or pattern onto the tag when accepting a request to purchase or rent a tag.

[0028] The present technology will be specifically described with reference to the drawings showing embodiments thereof.

[0029] (Embodiment 1) 1 is a schematic diagram of a collection support system 100 according to the first embodiment. The collection support system 100 includes a collection terminal device 1 installed at various locations, a collection support device 2, and a network N. The collection support device 2 of the collection support system 100 is capable of transmitting and receiving information via communication with a management server 400 managed by an e-commerce service provider outside the system or a transport company.

[0030] A user attaches (e.g., sticks) a sticker- or sheet-like tag T, which has identification information stored in a built-in storage medium, to an item. A reading unit of a collection terminal device 1 installed in various places, for example, at a train station, reads the identification information stored in the storage medium of the tag T. For example, when the collection terminal device 1 reads the identification information from the tag T of an item lost by a user, the collection terminal device 1 that reads the information transmits a detection message including the read identification information to a collection support device 2. The detection message is transmitted from the collection terminal device 1 to the collection support device 2 by encrypted communication via a network N including a public communication network.

[0031] Upon receiving the detection message from the collection terminal device 1, the collection support device 2 notifies the seller of the tag T itself, which is stored in advance in association with the identification information of the tag T, or a seller, rental company, transport company, or other business that the tag T has been detected. Each business stores the address of the user who is the purchaser or user of the item as customer data. Upon receiving the notification of the detection of the tag T, each business transmits the detection to the user who purchased the tag T or the user who purchases or uses the item with the tag T. At this time, the detection notification to the user may include information on where and when the item can be collected. The notification to the user may be made via the user's email address or messaging app account, or may be realized by delivering a postcard or letter to the address, or by telephone.

[0032] When a user receives a notification that an item with tag T has been detected and wants to collect the item, the user needs a collection location. The notification from the collection support device 2 to the business operator should preferably include information about the location where the item can be collected. The business operator should present the location only if the authentication registered for the user is successful, so that the user can refer to the location where the item can be collected. The notification should preferably include options such as whether to deliver the detected item, dispose of it, or sell it to someone else, and the user should be able to select these options.

[0033] In this way, the recovery support system 100 uses a sticker-like or sheet-like tag T to support the user in recovering lost items. In the recovery support provided by the recovery support system 100, when a user purchases an item or tag T, the user only needs to agree to the association of the account information of the mail-order service or payment service used for the purchase with the tag identification information of the tag T, and then attach the tag T to the item. Found lost items can be reported not only to a police station, but also to a convenience store, station, financial institution, etc., and in either case, the item is safely handed over to the user. Personal information about the user (user-specific information) is kept secret from the eyes of others.

[0034] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing one form of tag T. The tag T in FIG. 2 is sticker-like and can be peeled off from the sheet for use. Alternatively, the tag T may be a sheet-like identification body storing identification information. The tag T may be, for example, a contactless IC tag sticker based on the FeliCa (registered trademark) standard. The tag T is not limited to FeliCa, but may also include an IC chip based on RFID (Radio Frequency Identifier). The tag T may be made of fabric with a contactless IC tag sewn into it. An image or barcode may be printed on the surface of the tag T. As described below, it is preferable to allow users to select their desired design when purchasing the tag T. The identification information stored in the storage medium of the tag T may be common to multiple tags T, or may be unique to each tag T. The identification information stored in the IC chip may be encrypted so that it cannot be read. The tag T can also be replaced with a three-dimensional decorative item that is not sticker-like or sheet-like. The tag T may be a three-dimensional miscellaneous item attached to an item cover or an item. The tag T may be, for example, a character or animal-shaped tag attached to the handle of an umbrella and may include a contactless IC tag inside.

[0035] In the case of tags T, in which 15 tags are grouped together on a single sheet as shown in Fig. 2, the same identification information is stored in the IC chip for all 15 tags or for each set of 5 tags. The manufacturer of the tag T stores the identification information in the IC chip of the tag T based on a request from the administrator of the collection support device 2. The tag T may also be used as a sticker for identifying the origin or authenticity that includes a trademark or the like related to the item to which it is attached, or as a tag or label attached to an item such as clothing.

[0036] 3 is a block diagram of the collection support system 100. A Felica (registered trademark) compatible kiosk terminal installed at a station may be used as the collection terminal device 1, or the collection terminal device 1 may be installed in a lost and found management center. A cash register terminal, ATM, or receiving locker may also be used as the collection terminal device 1. The collection terminal device 1 may perform a specific function by installing a specific collection terminal program 1P on a general-purpose tablet terminal.

[0037] The collection terminal 1 includes at least a control unit 10, a storage unit 11, a communication unit 12, a display unit 13, an operation unit 14, and a reading unit 15. The collection terminal 1 may have various components depending on the type of device to be used. The collection terminal 1 may have an internal storage battery and be equipped with the function of an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), or may be connected to a UPS.

[0038] The control unit 10 is a processor including a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and controls each component to execute processing using built-in memories such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory). The control unit 10 executes information processing based on a collection terminal program 1P stored in the storage unit 11.

[0039] The storage unit 11 uses a nonvolatile memory such as a hard disk or an SSD (Solid State Drive). The storage unit 11 stores the above-mentioned collection terminal program 1P and various information referenced by the control unit 10. The storage unit 11 stores information generated by the processing of the control unit 10.

[0040] The communication unit 12 is a communication device that supports encrypted communication such as SSL with the collection support device 2 via the network N. The communication unit 12 may be an interface for realizing a connection with the collection support device 2 via a dedicated line. The control unit 10 can establish a secure communication connection with the collection support device 2 via the communication unit 12.

[0041] The display unit 13 uses a display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display. The display unit 13 displays an operation screen including characters and images through processing based on a terminal program including the collection terminal program 1P of the control unit 10. A display with a built-in touch panel may be used for the display unit 13. The display unit 13 is not essential, and when the operation unit 14 is an audio user interface, information may be output by audio instead of the display unit 13.

[0042] The operation unit 14 uses a touch panel built into the display of the display unit 13, or buttons provided on the housing of the collection terminal device 1. The operation unit 14 may be a voice input unit that accepts voice operations using a voice recognition function. The operation unit 14 may also be a keyboard and pointing device that can input and output data to and from the control unit 10. With these configurations, the operation unit 14 notifies the control unit 10 of operation information by the user or operator.

[0043] The reading unit 15 is a reader that reads tag identification information of the tag T. The reading unit 15 is a wireless tag reader. The reading unit 15 may be a barcode reader or a camera. The reading unit 15 may include either of these and selectively use one of them depending on the state of the tag T to read the tag identification information of the tag T. The reading unit 15 notifies the control unit 10 of the information read from the tag T.

[0044] The collection support device 2 includes a control unit 20, a storage unit 21, and a communication unit 22. The collection support device 2 is described here as a single server computer, but functions or processes may be distributed among multiple server computers.

[0045] The control unit 20 is a processor using a CPU or a GPU, and controls each component to execute processing using built-in memories such as ROM and RAM. The control unit 20 executes information processing based on the collection support program 2P stored in the storage unit 21.

[0046] The storage unit 21 uses a nonvolatile memory such as a hard disk or SSD. The storage unit 21 stores various information referenced by the collection support program 2P and the control unit 20. The storage unit 21 stores collection terminal device information including a correspondence between the terminal identification information of the collection terminal device 1 and information on the initial collection location of an item detected by the collection terminal device 1. The storage unit 21 stores tag information including identification information of the business selling or using the tag T and identification information of the business for identifying the user of the tag T, in correspondence with the identification information of the sold tag T. The collection location of an item with the tag T may be individually added to the tag information for each tag T in correspondence with the identification information of the tag T. Specifically, the collection terminal device 1 at the detection location of the tag T or the lost property management center accepts registration of the collection location through operation by an administrator, transmits information on the registered collection location to the collection support device 2, and the collection support device 2 stores the received collection location information in correspondence with the tag identification information.

[0047] The above-mentioned identification information of the tag T refers to information that is associated with customer data in the management server 400 in order to identify the user who owns the tag T. The identification information is, for example, identification information stored in the IC of the tag T. If the identification information is the same as the identification information stored in the IC of the tag T, there is no need to store the association. If the identification information stored in the IC of the tag T is used only within the collection support system 100, it is necessary to store in the memory unit 21 the identification information of the tag T that is uniquely assigned by the business operator of the management server 400 and the identification information stored in the IC of the tag T in association with each other. In this case, the identification information is, for example, a product number that can identify the tag T between the sales business operator attached to the tag T and the purchaser. The identification information may be a purchase number when the purchaser purchases the tag T via the management server 400. The identification information may be a dedicated identification number for identifying the tag T that is agreed upon between the management server 400 and the collection support system 100, in order to enable the management server 400 to identify the user who owns the item to which the tag T is attached.

[0048] The communication unit 22 is an interface that realizes communication via the network N. The control unit 20 realizes a communication connection with the collection terminal device 1 or the management server 400 of the business operator via the network N by the communication unit 22.

[0049] The processing performed by the collection support system 100 configured in this manner will be described below.

[0050] [Get Tag T] The tag T is accepted for purchase by a sales business that sells the tag T itself or a sales business that sells an item to which the tag T is attached. In the collection support system 100, the collection support device 2 receives information from the management server 400 when the tag T is sold in order to know which business to notify when the sold tag T is detected by the collection terminal device 1.

[0051] Fig. 4 shows an example of a screen displayed on a sales site for tags T. Fig. 4 is displayed, for example, by the web server function of a management server 400 managed by a seller of tags T. The sales screen 401 shown in the example of Fig. 4 includes a list 402 of tags T that are available for purchase. The sales screen 401 also includes a design selection control 403 that optionally accepts a request to output an image, color, text, or pattern onto the tag T being sold.

[0052] The sales screen 401 includes a registration control 404 for registering a notification destination in the event of loss. When the registration control 404 is selected, registration of notification destinations such as the purchaser user's ID, email address, account information for the message app on the purchaser's information terminal device 3, the user's address as the delivery destination, or a telephone number is accepted. Customer data pre-registered on the sales site may be used. It is also possible to accept registration of a notification destination for the user who is the owner of the item and who wishes to be notified by the tag T, rather than the purchaser.

[0053] The tag T may be purchased in a store. In the case of a store purchase, the identification information of the tag T managed by the tag T or the seller of the item cannot be automatically associated with customer data such as the address for notifying the user. In the case of a store purchase, the user who purchased the tag T or the store staff may register the identification information of the purchased tag T together with the user's notification address on a screen such as that shown in FIG. 4. In this case, the screen shown in FIG. 4 may be provided via a web server managed by the manufacturer or transporter of the tag T, or may be provided from a web server operated by a special business that only provides a service for notifying the user of detection.

[0054] The sales screen 401 includes a tag T selected in the list 402 and a purchase procedure control 405 for purchasing the tag T with an optional design selected.

[0055] Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a purchase reception processing procedure based on the sales screen 401. The processing procedure shown in the flowchart of Fig. 5 is executed by the management server 400 when the purchase procedure control 405 is selected.

[0056] The management server 400 determines whether the selected tag T is under inventory management in the management server 400 (step S401). If the selected tag T is under inventory management (S401: YES), the management server 400 stores the correspondence between the notification destination registered based on the registration control 404, the purchase number identifying the purchase, and the identification information of the tag T to be shipped (step S402). Here, the identification information of the tag T may be a product number uniquely assigned by a sales company to a sheet including the tag T, or the identification information itself stored in the IC chip of the tag T.

[0057] The management server 400 notifies the collection support device 2 that the tag T has been sold, along with the identification information of the tag T (step S403), and ends the process. From this point on, the collection support device 2 monitors whether the tag T identified by the identification information of the tag T is detected.

[0058] If the management server 400 determines that the tag T is not under inventory management (S401: NO), it places an order for the tag T with the manufacturer of the tag T. The management server 400 transmits order information to the manufacturer of the tag T via the collection support device 2 (step S404). The order information includes a purchase number that identifies the purchase from the user. If an option to request the output of an image, color, text, or pattern onto the tag T is selected, the order information includes information on the image, color, text, or pattern to be output.

[0059] The management server 400 stores the correspondence between the notification destination registered based on the registration control 404 and the purchase number (step S405), and ends the process. The storage process in step S405 may be performed after the tag T has been shipped from the manufacturer.

[0060] The processing in the management server 400 is not limited to the procedure shown in the flowchart of Fig. 5. Other methods may be used as long as they can associate customer data with the tag T possessed by the user so that the management server, which receives a notification of the detection of tag T from the collection support system 100 based on customer data managed by the business, can notify the owner of tag T and the owner of the item to which tag T is attached.

[0061] 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a registration procedure for identification information of tag T in collection support device 2. When control unit 20 of collection support device 2 receives a sale notification from management server 400 (step S201), it identifies identification information stored in the IC chip of tag T that corresponds to the identification information of the sold tag T included in the sale notification (step 202). Control unit 20 stores business identification information that identifies the business that manages management server 400, the correspondence between the business's identification information of tag T and the identification information of tag T in tag information in storage unit 21 (step S203), and ends the process.

[0062] 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a registration procedure for identification information of tags T in the collection support device 2. The control unit 20 of the collection support device 2 receives order information from the management server 400 (step S211). When the collection support device 2 receives the order information, information on images, colors, characters, or patterns to be output to tags T, which is included in the order information, and a manufacturing request are entrusted to a manufacturer of tags T. The control unit 20 acquires identification information of the manufactured tags T (step S212). The control unit 20 stores in the tag information a correspondence between the order information of step S211, business identification information that identifies the business that manages the management server 400 that sent the order information, and the identification information of tags T acquired in step S212 (step S213), and ends the process.

[0063] In step S212, when the administrator of the collection support device 2 entrusts the tag T to the manufacturer, the administrator may specify the tag identification information.

[0064] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of tag information stored in the storage unit 21. As illustrated in FIG. 8, in the tag information of the collection support device 2, the tag identification information “0020007891” stores sales site identification information identifying the administrator of the management server 400 that sold or loaned the tag T, and a purchase number. In the first embodiment, the purchase number is used so that the management server 400 can identify the owner of the item to which the tag T, which stores the identification information “0020007891,” is attached. Since the identification information of the tag T is used only within the collection support system 100, it is desirable not to notify the management server 400 of the information. Separating the management server 400, which manages customer data, from the collection support system 100, which manages the identification information of the tag T, reduces the management burden of personal information. Because RFID tags can be read by general-purpose devices, encrypting the information and making it unavailable outside the collection support system 100 is expected to prevent misuse of the tag T.

[0065] In the tag information shown in Fig. 8, each tag identification information may be updated and stored whenever the state of the item to which the tag T is attached changes. For example, the state of the item is initially "pre-sale state", and when it is notified that the item has been sold, the state is changed to "used state" by the collection support device 2. If the item is used in a manner that allows for a lost property report, as described below, the state of the item is changed to "lost state". When the tag T is detected by the collection terminal device 1, the state of the item is changed to "detected state".

[0066] [When lost] When a user realizes that an item with tag T has been lost, the user may carry out a registration procedure (lost item report procedure) on a lost item registration screen provided by the management server 400. Registering a lost item is not mandatory. In the lost item registration procedure, the user can register the lost item with the user's customer data, i.e., a user ID that identifies the user, etc.

[0067] When a bona fide third party finds a lost item, the third party delivers the item to a staff member at a facility, for example, a station attendant. The staff member attempts to read the tag T of the item using the reading unit 15 of the collection terminal device 1 installed at the facility. If the tag T is attached to the item, the collection terminal device 1 notifies the collection support device 2. The reading is performed as follows.

[0068] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display unit 13 of the collection terminal device 1. Fig. 9 shows an example in which the collection terminal device 1 is a kiosk terminal at a station. As shown in Fig. 9, the terminal screen 131 displayed on the display unit 13 of the collection terminal device 1 functioning as a kiosk terminal includes a lost and found button 132 alongside a button for charging a transportation IC card.

[0069] An interface for notifying a found item, such as the lost item found button 132 shown in Fig. 9, is provided on the display unit 13 or the operation unit 14 of the collection terminal 1. When a staff member selects the interface for notifying a found item, a message prompting the reading unit 15 to read the tag T is displayed on the display unit 13. The display unit 13 may also display an interface for selecting the type of item that has been found. When the reading operation is performed, the following process is executed starting from the collection terminal 1.

[0070] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the procedure for detecting an item performed by the collection support system 100. As shown in FIG.

[0071] The control unit 10 of the collection terminal device 1 reads the identification information of the tag T using the reading unit 15 (step S101). In step S101, the control unit 10 decrypts the encryption of the information read by the reading unit 15. For encryption and decryption, key information commonly used in the collection support system 100 may be used, or key information set for each collection terminal device 1 may be used.

[0072] The control unit 10 requests the collection support device 2 from the communication unit 12 to establish a communication connection using encrypted communication such as SSL (step S102). When the collection support device 2 successfully authenticates the collection terminal device 1 and establishes a connection, the control unit 10 transmits a detection message including the identification information of the tag T read by the reading unit 15 to the collection support device 2, in association with the terminal identification information of the terminal itself pre-stored in the storage unit 11 (step S103). The terminal identification information does not need to be notified if it is known to the collection support device 2 through the communication connection between the collection terminal device 1 and the collection support device 2. When the notification is completed, the communication between the collection terminal device 1 and the collection support device 2 is disconnected (step S104).

[0073] In the collection terminal device 1, if an item is selected when the tag T is read by the reading unit 15, the selected item may be registered in the storage unit 11 in association with the identification information of the tag T. In this case, the detection message transmitted from the collection terminal device 1 to the collection support device 2 in step S103 includes the item type (such as "umbrella," "clothes," "bag," or "telephone").

[0074] The collection support device 2 receives a detection message from the collection terminal device 1 connected for communication by the communication unit 22 (step S221), and the control unit 20 acquires the identification information of the tag T included in the detection message (step S222). The control unit 20 of the collection support device 2, rather than the collection terminal device 1, may decrypt the encrypted identification information of the tag T in step S222.

[0075] The control unit 20 stores the acquired identification information of the tag T in the storage unit 21 in association with the "detection state" (step S223). In step S223, the control unit 20 may update the state information associated with the identification information acquired in step S222, among the identification information of the tag T included in the tag information, to the "detection state."

[0076] The control unit 20 reads out from the storage unit 21 the collection location stored in association with the terminal identification information of the collection terminal device 1 that has notified the identification information of the tag T (step S224).

[0077] The control unit 20 refers to the tag information stored in the memory unit 21 to the identification information of the business operator's management server 400 and the specific information of the tag T (purchase number in embodiment 1) that are associated with the identification information acquired in step S222 (step S225).

[0078] The control unit 20 transmits a detection notification including the location information of the collection location read in step S224 and the identification information (purchase number) of the tag T to the management server 400 of the business operator referenced in step S225 (step S226). If the item name of the item with the tag T is included in the detection message, the detection notification should also include the item name.

[0079] When the management server 400 receives the detection notification (step S411), it refers to the customer data and acquires information about the purchaser of the tag T or the user's notification destination based on the identification information of the tag T included in the detection notification (step S412). The management server 400 transmits the detection notification to the user's information terminal device 3 based on the notification destination information (step S413), and ends the process. The detection notification may be sent by email address, using a messaging app, by delivery of a postcard or sealed letter, or by telephone, as described above.

[0080] In response to the detection notification, the user can select what to do with the item with the detected tag T. FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a detection notification to the user. FIG. 11 illustrates a notification screen 330 for the information terminal device 3 provided by the management server 400. The notification screen 330 includes an image of the tag T and information identifying the collection location. The collection location may also include a button 334 for displaying a map showing the location. The notification screen 330 includes an interface for selecting the user's action regarding the detected item. The interface includes an icon 331 for starting the procedure for the user to pick up the item, an icon 332 for having the item shipped to the user's home in the same way as shipping via a mail-order service, and an icon 333 for giving up on collection and listing the item for sale via a mail-order service. As shown in FIG. 11, the notification screen 330 may include an icon 335 for completing the disposal procedure. If an address is selected as the notification destination, a PIN code for collection is issued and notified by postcard. In the case of a postcard, it is preferable that the telephone operation instructions be written regarding the procedures corresponding to the icon 332 for delivery and the icon 333 for listing. If the found item is a smartphone, and the selected notification destination is an email address or a messaging app account, it is preferable that the management server 400 recognize this and take action such as notifying the user by postcard.

[0081] When an action is selected by the user, collection is initiated by the management server 400 that detects this. First, a case where picking up (collection) is selected will be described. Figures 12 and 13 are sequence diagrams showing an example of the procedure of the collection process.

[0082] 12, when the management server 400 detects that the user has selected collection (step S421), it notifies the collection support device 2 that collection is scheduled, along with specific information that identifies the target tag T (step S422). The management server 400 issues a password for collection, notifies the user of the password, and securely transmits the password to the collection support device 2, for example by encrypting it, in association with the notification of the scheduled collection (step S423).

[0083] The collection support device 2 receives a notification of the planned collection and a password from the management server 400 via the communication unit 22 (step S241). The control unit 20 stores the identification information of the tag T corresponding to the specific information of the tag T included in the notification in the tag information of the storage unit 21 in association with the planned collection state (step S242).

[0084] The collection process begins when the user, who is the owner of the lost item, visits a location where the lost item can be collected. For example, the user calls out to a facility staff member, who guides the user to identify the item, and the collection terminal device 1 installed at the storage location accepts the item for processing. The location of the detected item at the storage location may be stored in association with tag information in the collection support device 2, and may be referenced from the collection terminal device 1.

[0085] 13, the control unit 10 of the collection terminal device 1 reads the identification information of the tag T of the item to be collected by the reading unit 15 (step S111). The control unit 10 requests the collection support device 2 from the communication unit 12 to establish a communication connection by SSL encrypted communication (step S112).

[0086] When the collection support device 2 successfully authenticates the collection terminal device 1 and establishes a connection, the control unit 10 associates the terminal's own terminal identification information, which is pre-stored in the memory unit 11, with the identification information of the tag T read by the reading unit 15, and sends an inquiry to the collection support device 2 as to whether collection is possible (step S113).

[0087] When the collection support device 2 receives the inquiry (step S243), the control unit 20 extracts the identification information of the tag T included in the inquiry from the tag information stored in the storage unit 21 (step S244). The control unit 20 confirms that the tag T is in a scheduled collection state and transmits the inquiry result to the collection terminal device 1 (step S245). If the tag T is not in a scheduled collection state, in step S245, the control unit 20 transmits the inquiry result that collection is not possible.

[0088] In the collection terminal device 1, when it is confirmed that the collection support device 2 is in a scheduled collection state and collection is possible as an inquiry result (step S114), the control unit 10 causes the display unit 13 to display a screen for inputting a password for collection (step S115). The control unit 10 accepts input of the password through the operation unit 14 (step S116). In step S115, if the user has brought the information terminal device 3 with them, the display unit of the information terminal device 3 may display an image of the password, such as a barcode, which may be read and accepted as the password by the reading unit 15. The control unit 10 transmits an authentication request to the collection support device 2 to verify whether the user is the legitimate owner, based on the password accepted in step S116 (step S117).

[0089] When the collection support device 2 receives the authentication request (step S246), it executes authentication processing based on the password received in step S241 (step S247). The collection support device 2 transmits the result of the authentication processing to the collection terminal device 1 (step S248).

[0090] The collection terminal device 1 receives the result of the authentication process (step S118), and if successful, the staff member hands over the item. If the item is locked in a locker, the lock may be opened. Once the handover and receipt are complete, the collection terminal device 1 notifies the collection support device 2 that collection is complete (step S119), and communication is disconnected (step S120).

[0091] When the collection support device 2 receives notification that collection is complete (step S249), it deletes the "scheduled collection status" associated with the tag identification information of the corresponding tag T (step S250), and then notifies the management server 400 that collection is complete (step S251).

[0092] The management server 400 receives the notification that collection has been completed (step S424) and ends the process.

[0093] A case where "have it delivered (delivery)" is selected will be described below. Fig. 14 is a sequence diagram showing another example of the procedure of the collection process.

[0094] When the management server 400 detects that delivery has been selected (step S431), it transmits a shipping instruction to the collection support device 2 together with identification information that identifies the target tag T (step S432). The management server 400 transmits delivery destination information to the collection support device 2 (step S433). The destination information is an address specified by the user or the address of a business's distribution center or the like.

[0095] When the collection support device 2 receives the shipping instruction and destination information (step S261), the control unit 20 stores in the storage unit 21 that the item is to be shipped, in association with the identification information of the tag T that corresponds to the specific information of the tag T included in the shipping instruction (step S262). The control unit 20 establishes a communication connection with the collection terminal device 1 managed at the collection location associated with the tag identification information of the tag T that is the target of the shipping instruction (step S263), and transmits a shipping notice together with the destination information in association with the tag identification information of the tag T of the item to be delivered (step S264). As an alternative to steps S263 and S264, the control unit 20 of the collection support device 2 may notify the manager of the collection terminal device 1 at the collection location of the shipping instruction including the shipping details by email or the like.

[0096] When the collection terminal device 1 receives the shipping notification and destination information together with the tag identification information of the target tag T (step S131), the control unit 10 displays information about the tag T to be shipped on the display unit 13 and has the facility staff or the transport device of the material handling system confirm that shipping processing is necessary (step S132). The staff or the transport device of the material handling system who recognizes the shipping carries out shipping procedures based on the received destination information and inputs shipping completion on the operation unit 14. When the control unit 10 accepts the operation to input shipping completion, it notifies the collection support device 2 of shipping completion (step S133). Shipping may not be performed by the business operator managing the collection terminal device 1, but may be realized by the business operator of the management server 400 going to the facility where the item was detected and collecting it together with other deliveries.

[0097] When the collection support device 2 receives the notification of the completion of shipping (step S265), the communication connection is disconnected (step S266), and the control unit 20 deletes the shipping schedule information associated with the tag identification information of the tag T that has been updated and stored in the storage unit 21 (step S267). The control unit 20 notifies the management server 400 of the completion of shipping (step S268).

[0098] When the management server 400 receives the notification of the completion of delivery (step S434), the process ends.

[0099] If it is selected to put the item up for sale, it is collected in the same manner as in Fig. 14. However, the collection destination for the item is a delivery center or the like of the business operator of management server 400. The business operator of management server 400 may go to the facility where the item was detected and collect it together with other deliveries. If it is selected to discard the item, it may also be delivered to a warehouse of the business operator of management server 400 or a specific designated address, or it may be discarded together with other waste at the facility where the item was detected.

[0100] In this way, the recovery support system 100 manages the identification information of the tag T from the time of its manufacture and sale, and when it is read by the recovery terminal device 1, it securely authenticates it and notifies businesses such as sellers and rental businesses of the tag T. Using inexpensive sticker- or sheet-shaped tags T, the system supports the recovery of lost items while reducing the burden on users. This increases the convenience of the lost item notification service and makes it possible to promote its widespread use.

[0101] In the first embodiment, when an item is lost, staff at the facility that collected the item notifies the user that the item has been found through the collection terminal device 1, on the assumption that the item will be delivered to a facility such as a public transportation station by a bona fide third party. This is not limited to bona fide finding. If an attempt is made to fraudulently use the lost item, the collection terminal device 1 may detect this and notify the user via the collection support device 2 that the lost item has been found. Specifically, when a tag T is attached to the item to be used, the collection terminal device 1 reads the tag identification information, compares it with the tag identification information of a tag T that has been reported as lost, and if the tag T is the tag T that has been reported as lost, stops the use of the item and notifies the user. This is useful when the item in question is a credit card, prepaid card, etc., as it can detect fraudulent use. When a lost item is found or fraudulently used, the notification may be sent not only to the user, but also to the card company or the operator of the collection support device 2.

[0102] (Variation) Transactions of the tag T are not limited to the case where the tag T is attached to an item purchased through a mail-order service provided by the management server 400 as in the first embodiment described above, or the case where the tag itself is purchased. For example, the tag T may be issued at a cash register terminal when a purchaser purchases an item. In this case, the user-specific information associated with the tag identification information of the tag T may be user information used in a payment service known as electronic money, rather than account information for the mail-order service.

[0103] When a user purchases a portable item such as an umbrella at a convenience store, the user may select to have a tag T issued at the time of payment, allowing the tag T to be used on the spot. In this case, a cash register terminal that can also function as the collection terminal 1 is used, and a confirmation screen is displayed asking whether or not to use the lost item notification service. If the user selects to use the service, the cash register terminal performs payment using electronic money as described above. The cash register terminal functions as the collection terminal 1 and reads tag identification information from the tag T provided as an accessory. The tag T may be issued as part of a receipt. Information identifying the payment information is transmitted from the collection terminal 1 to the management server 400 that provides payment services, and the management server 400 executes a process of storing the information identifying the tag T in association with the user's account information that can be identified by the payment information. The retail store staff hands the tag T together with the product (umbrella) to the user who is the purchaser. The user attaches the tag T to the purchased product and uses it. The subsequent process is the same as in the first embodiment described above.

[0104] Similarly, when a user purchases a souvenir at a store inside or near a station, the user may choose to have a sticker-like tag T issued when paying with electronic money and attached to the souvenir package on the spot. Even if the user leaves the souvenir on the train, railway company staff can read the tag T using the collection terminal device 1, allowing the user to know at which station the souvenir was found and to carry out delivery procedures as requested.

[0105] (Embodiment 2) The collection support system 100 of the first embodiment is a system that notifies the user, who is the owner, that a lost item has been detected and supports the collection. In the second embodiment, the tag T may be already attached to the item when it is sold, or may be embedded in the item. The items to be collected are recyclable items. The items may be clothing, various plastic products, various electrical appliances, batteries, etc. The collection support system 100 supports the collection by notifying the manufacturer or user of the item that the item purchased by the user has been collected for recycling.

[0106] 15 is a schematic diagram of a collection support system 100 according to the second embodiment. The collection support system 100 includes a collection terminal device 1 installed in a processing facility that recycles collected items, a collection support device 2, and a network N. The collection support device 2 of the collection support system 100 is capable of transmitting and receiving information via communication with a management server 400 managed by an item manufacturer, a collection company, an e-commerce service provider for items, or a transport company outside the system.

[0107] The tag T may be attached to the item to be recycled in advance by the manufacturer. The tag T may be sewn onto the item. The tag T may be a contactless IC tag that is embedded in the item.

[0108] The management server 400 may store specific information for identifying the tag T. The management server 400 managed by the electronic commerce service provider may store the specific information of the tag T in association with customer data.

[0109] When an item to be recycled is collected at a processing facility via a collection business operator, the identification information stored in the storage medium of the tag T is read by a reading unit of the collection terminal device 1. After reading the identification information, the collection terminal device 1 transmits a detection message including the read identification information to the collection support device 2. The detection message is preferably transmitted from the collection terminal device 1 to the collection support device 2 by encrypted communication via a network N including a public communication network.

[0110] The collection support device 2, which has received the detection message from the collection terminal device 1, notifies the manufacturer, seller, or transporter of the item to which the tag T is attached, which has been stored in advance in association with the identification information of the tag T, that the item has been collected at a recycling processing facility and the tag T has been detected. This allows, for example, the manufacturer to recognize that the item to which the tag T is attached has been collected.

[0111] The management server 400 of the sales company stores customer data that identifies the purchaser of the item with the tag T. The management server 400 managed by the sales company stores the identification information of the purchaser in association with the identification information of the tag T provided by the product manufacturer, and is able to award points to the purchaser as a reward for collection based on the identification information of the tag T of the item collected at a recycling processing facility. Awarding points is expected to have the effect of promoting collection.

[0112] The hardware configuration of the collection support system 100 in the second embodiment is the same as that in the first embodiment, and so the same reference numerals will be used and detailed description of each part will be omitted. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it is not essential that the purchaser of the item be notified of the detection. The processing details of the collection support system 100 in the second embodiment will be described below.

[0113] Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure at the time of sale in the management server 400 according to Embodiment 2. The processing procedure shown in Fig. 16 may be executed by the manufacturer at the time of shipping.

[0114] When the management server 400 accepts the sale of an item with a tag T attached (step S441), it stores a purchase number that identifies the purchase of the item and the identification information of the tag T (identification information stored in the tag T) in association with each other (step S442). The identification information of the tag may be a code that is uniquely assigned by the sales company. The management server 400 notifies the collection support device 2 that the tag T is being sold, along with the identification information of the tag T (step S443), and ends the process.

[0115] 16 is executed when the product is shipped from the manufacturer, or if points are not awarded to the user as a reward for collecting the product, management server 400 may store the number of products shipped or sold in place of step S442. In step S443, the number of products shipped or sold may be notified.

[0116] 17 is a flowchart showing an example of a storage process procedure for identification information of tag T in collection support device 2 in embodiment 2. When control unit 20 of collection support device 2 receives a sale notification from management server 400 (step S271), it identifies identification information stored in the IC chip of tag T that corresponds to the identification information of the sold tag T included in the sale notification (step 272). Control unit 20 stores business identification information that identifies the business that manages management server 400, the correspondence between the business's identification information of tag T and the identification information of tag T in the tag information of storage unit 21 (step S273), and ends the process.

[0117] The flowchart in Fig. 17 is not essential. The storage unit 21 of the collection support device 2 in the second embodiment may at least store identification information of the tag T provided to the manufacturer in association with business identification information that identifies the manufacturer.

[0118] 18 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the processing procedure for detecting an item performed in the collection support system 100 of the second embodiment. When a reading operation is performed in the collection terminal 1, the following processing is executed starting from the collection terminal 1.

[0119] The control unit 10 of the collection terminal device 1 reads the identification information of the tag T using the reading unit 15 (step S141). In step S141, the control unit 10 decrypts the encryption of the information read by the reading unit 15. The encryption and decryption may use key information commonly used in the collection support system 100, or key information set for each collection terminal device 1.

[0120] The control unit 10 requests the collection support device 2 from the communication unit 12 to establish a communication connection using encrypted communication such as SSL (step S142). When the collection support device 2 successfully authenticates the collection terminal device 1 and establishes a connection, the control unit 10 transmits a detection message including the identification information of the tag T read by the reading unit 15 to the collection support device 2, in association with the terminal identification information of the terminal itself pre-stored in the storage unit 11 (step S143). The terminal identification information does not need to be notified if it is known to the collection support device 2 through the communication connection between the collection terminal device 1 and the collection support device 2. When the notification is completed, the communication between the collection terminal device 1 and the collection support device 2 is disconnected (step S144).

[0121] The collection support device 2 receives a detection message from the collection terminal device 1 connected for communication via the communication unit 22 (step S281), and the control unit 20 acquires the identification information of the tag T included in the detection message (step S282). The control unit 20 of the collection support device 2, rather than the collection terminal device 1, may decrypt the encrypted identification information of the tag T in step S282.

[0122] The control unit 20 acquires the terminal identification information of the collection terminal 1 that notified the identification information of the tag T (step S283). The control unit 20 stores the identification information of the tag T as a collection history in association with the terminal identification information (step S284).

[0123] The control unit 20 refers to the tag information stored in the memory unit 21 to the identification information of the business operator's management server 400 and the specific information of the tag T (in this embodiment, the purchase number) associated with the identification information acquired in step S282 (step S285).

[0124] The control unit 20 transmits a detection notification including specific information of the tag T, such as a purchase number, to the management server 400 of the business operator referenced in step S285 (step S286).

[0125] When the management server 400 receives the detection notification (step S451), it acquires the identification information of the purchaser of the tag T by referencing the customer data based on the specific information of the tag T included in the detection notification (step S452). The management server 400 stores the fact that the tag T has been collected in association with the identification information of the purchaser (step S453), and ends the process.

[0126] If the sales company does not give points to the purchaser as a reward for collection, or if the management server 400 is managed by the manufacturer, the management server 400, instead of step S453, records the fact that the item has been collected in association with the specific information of the tag T. The management server 400 may simply count the number of times the item has been collected.

[0127] In the second embodiment, the manufacturer or retailer of the product is notified that the product purchased by the user has been collected for recycling. Even if the recyclable product is not collected by the product manufacturer, the manufacturer can recognize that the product has been collected at a recycling facility along with other recyclable products. The manufacturer can take steps to increase the collection rate of the products shipped, thereby contributing to reducing illegally dumped waste and reducing plastic waste. The retailer can reward customers with points based on the number and collection rate of recyclable products collected, which can be identified for each customer. The contributions of the product users and retailers can be visualized, thereby increasing motivation for recycling.

[0128] The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, and includes all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0129] 100 Collection Support System 1. Collection terminal device 10 Control Unit 11 Storage section 1P Collection Terminal Program 12 Communications Department 15 Reading unit 2. Recovery support device 20 Control Unit 21 Memory section 2P Collection Support Program 22 Communications Department 3 Information terminal equipment 400 Management Server N Network

Claims

1. a receiving unit that receives a detection message including identification information of a tag attached to an item; a storage unit that stores a status of the item, including a status of the item collected for recycling or reuse, in association with identification information of the tag included in the detection message; Equipped with When the designation of the identification information is received from a business, the state of the item corresponding to the designated identification information is associated with the identification information and notified to the business. Recovery support device.

2. The collection support device according to claim 1 , wherein the receiving unit receives the detection message transmitted from a collection terminal device installed in a processing facility for recycling or reuse.

3. 3. The collection support device according to claim 1, wherein the detection message is received by encrypted communication.

4. The collection support device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the article is a battery.

5. The collection support device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the business is a manufacturer of the item.

6. The collection support device according to claim 1 , wherein information relating to the manufacture of the tagged item, the purchase of the item, and collection facilities for the item is stored in association with the identification information of the tag.

7. A collection support system that supports the collection of items by using a plurality of collection terminal devices installed at a plurality of locations and a collection support device that can send and receive data from the plurality of collection terminal devices, The recovery support device a receiving unit that receives a detection message including identification information of a tag attached to an item; a storage unit that stores a status of the item, including a status of the item collected for recycling or reuse, in association with identification information of the tag included in the detection message; Equipped with When the designation of the identification information is received from a business, the collection support system notifies the business of the state of the item corresponding to the designated identification information in association with the identification information.

8. A method for supporting the collection of articles, using a plurality of collection terminal devices installed at a plurality of locations and a collection support device capable of transmitting and receiving data from the plurality of collection terminal devices, comprising: The recovery support device receiving a detection message including identification information of a tag attached to the item; storing a status of the item, including a status of the item collected for recycling or reuse, in association with identification information of the tag included in the detection message; When the identification information is specified by a business operator, the state of the item corresponding to the specified identification information is notified to the business operator in association with the identification information.

Images